Festival of the Joyful Arts
June 8-11, Ananda Village

The Festival of the Joyful Arts, an annual event held at Ananda Village, took place during the last weekend of Swami Kriyananda’s stay in America. Swamiji, together with Ananda members from around the world, shared inspiration and artistic talent with hundreds of visitors. The Village Green sported festive booths by the local artisans filled with colorful crafts. Classes on the art as a pathway to God were held on Friday and Saturday mornings. In the evenings, everyone enjoyed an outdoor concert and Swamiji’s play, Peace Treaty, performed under the starry sky.

On Sunday morning, after a stirring Sunday Service talk, Swamiji dedicated the ground for the new Temple of Light on a hillside overlooking Ananda Village. To consecrate the site, he offered a special prayer, chanted a Sanskrit mantra, and sprinkled holy Ganges water on the first shovelful of dirt.

It is with deep gratitude that Ananda residents bid goodbye to Swami Kriyananda as he left for our European center in Assisi, Italy. His visit to America has been a profoundly transforming experience for all. On his way out of the Village, Swamiji looked at the sea of shining faces around him, who were sending parting blessings to their dear friend. Blissfully he smiled and said, “You are a community of angels!”

Arts and crafts booths at the Village Green

Swamiji is greeting a local artist...

...and the pilgrims from Ananda India

Sri D.R. Kaarthikeyan, a dear friend from India

Groundbreaking ceremony for the future Temple of Light

More Festival Photos>>>
Video and Audio of Swamiji's Talks

Photos of Swamiji 80th Birthday Celebration
Photos of Swamiji in Sacramento
Photos of Swamiji in Portland and Seattle
Photos of Swamiji at Ananda Village
Photos of Swamiji in Palo Alto

Audio and Video of Swamiji's talks during his visit to America