THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

PURI, JUNE 16, 2026

Blending the festive spirit of Raja Parba with a journey of spiritual enlightenment, participants of the 22nd edition of Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) explored the profound teachings of “Kriya Yoga” at Hariharananda Gurukulam in Balighat. The heritage enthusiasts gained rare insights into the science of “Prana” (life force) and its role in shaping human consciousness, while discovering the rich spiritual legacy associated with one of India’s most revered yogic traditions.

Yoga is the art of mastering this life force, thereby making life more harmonious and fulfilling. Among the various forms of yoga, “Kriya Yoga” stands out as a unique spiritual discipline that helps elevate human consciousness and enables practitioners to transcend the sufferings associated with material existence.

During the 22nd edition of PHW, heritage enthusiasts had the opportunity to visit the Gurukulam and gain valuable spiritual insights. They were introduced to the fundamentals of “Kriya Yoga” by Swami Pujyananda, who explained the different monastic orders such as Giri, Puri, Bharati and others. The participants also learned about the spiritual practices and achievements of Mahavatar Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya, Paramahansa Yogananda, Sanyal Mahasaya, Swami Hariharananda and Swami Prajnananandaji Maharaj.

Swami Pujyananda explained how the practice of yoga enables individuals to regulate their breath and maintain a calm and balanced state of mind. He also highlighted how yogic practice instills the courage to remain fearless in the face of eternal truths such as death, even while living amidst worldly responsibilities. Paramahansa Yogananda played a pivotal role in taking “Kriya Yoga” to a national and global audience.

After paying their respects at the “samadhi” of Yogi Hariharananda Giri, the participants explored the Unity Trail within the Gurukulam campus. Reflecting the spirit of interfaith harmony, the trail features statues of revered figures from different faiths, including Lord Shri Rama, Lord Shri Krishna, Jesus Christ, Mother Mary, Mahavira Jina and Lord Buddha. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, the Gurukulam also houses a large “goshala” (cow shelter). The walk concluded at the Gurukulam, which is operated by Prajnana Mission.

In the final phase of the walk, the participants visited the temple of Maa Narayani at nearby Narayanibanta. On the occasion of “Pahili Raja”, the walkers were delighted to have “darshan” of the revered Vaishnavi deity amidst the picturesque, greenery-clad surroundings. Within the temple premises, they observed several ancient sculptures and a number of unique paintings executed partly in the “Pattachitra” style. The participants were particularly fascinated by the collection of old photographs related to Shrimandir and Puri preserved at the site.

The heritage enthusiasts further immersed themselves in the festive spirit of Raja Parba by enjoying traditional swings tied to ancient trees at Narayanibanta. With this joyful and enriching experience, the 22nd edition of PHW came to a memorable conclusion. Heritage enthusiasts from Puri, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Rourkela and Khordha participated in the walk.