News #83: Ananda Loka Orchestra Brings Uplifting Music to Russia

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Ananda Loka Orchestra performing in Russia tour

A Soulful Tour Across Southern Russia

Between October 28 and November 3, the Ananda Loka Orchestra performed a series of inspiring, soul-stirring concerts. They brought the meditative music of Sri Chinmoy to audiences in southern Russia. The tour included Stavropol, Astrakhan, Volgograd, and Saratov. Each city experienced a profound message of peace, harmony, and inner awakening. The music transcended language and culture, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of mindfulness, joy, and inner calm.

Stavropol: A Luminous Opening

The tour began on October 28 in Stavropol. Fans filled the 750-seat hall of the Stavropol Palace of Children’s Creativity. From the first notes, the orchestra created an atmosphere of deep calm and radiant beauty. Rich instrumental textures, combined with moments of silence, drew the audience into a meditative state. Many attendees said the evening felt both powerful and serene—a rare blend of spiritual depth and artistic precision that touched hearts and lifted spirits.

Astrakhan, Volgograd, and Saratov: Heart-Opening Experiences

Next, the orchestra performed in Astrakhan on October 30 at the House of Officers of the Caspian Flotilla. The audience felt captivated by the emotional depth and harmony of the compositions. On November 1, the orchestra reached Volgograd at the House of Officers of the Volgograd Garrison. Listeners experienced the same gentle yet uplifting energy, feeling the music as a direct connection to their inner selves. Finally, the tour concluded on November 3 in Saratov at the Saratov Regional Center for Folk Art named after L.A. Ruslanova. The last performance became a shared celebration of devotion, beauty, and meditative exploration.

About the Ananda Loka Orchestra

Founded by disciples of Sri Chinmoy, the orchestra continues to inspire audiences across Russia and Europe. The musicians perform each concert with devotion and artistry, transforming every evening into an immersive experience of meditation and self-discovery. Although the orchestra has not announced future tours, music lovers can follow updates and upcoming performances on the official website.

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News #82: 9th Annual Sri Chinmoy Rockland Lake Half-Marathon, New York

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Sri Chinmoy Half-Marathon 2025 runners at Rockland Lake

On Sunday, October 26, 2025, the Sri Chinmoy Half-Marathon 2025 returned to Rockland Lake State Park in New York, marking the 9th annual edition of this inspiring event. Organized by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team, the race attracted athletes from across the region and beyond, all eager to test their limits and embrace the enduring spirit of self-transcendence that defines the Sri Chinmoy events. From elite competitors to passionate first-time runners, participants of all experience levels gathered to share in the challenge and celebration of running.

Scenic and Challenging Course

The 13.1-mile loop around Rockland Lake provided both stunning scenery and a dynamic racing experience. The course included stretches of flat, fast terrain, ideal for runners aiming for personal bests, alongside gently rolling hills that challenged endurance and pacing. Participants repeatedly commented on the perfect combination of natural beauty and strategic difficulty, making it a course that tested both the body and the mind. The event was supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and race officials who ensured safety, hydration, and encouragement at every mile.

Top Finishers

The 2025 edition of the Sri Chinmoy Half-Marathon witnessed remarkable performances:

Men’s Overall Winner:

  • Octavio Diaz, New York, NY – Gun Time: 1:15:20, Chip Time: 1:15:19.

Women’s Overall Winner:

  • Susan Pardo, New York, NY – Gun Time: 1:18:43, Chip Time: 1:18:42, who also set a new women’s course record, improving the previous record by 1 minute and 46 seconds.

Notable Performances

Men:

  • Wilian Castillo Naranjo, Blauvelt, NY – 1:18:26
  • Nolan Kier, Caldwell, NJ – 1:18:28

Women:

  • Lucy Brash, New York, NY – 1:21:38

Spirit of the Event

More than just a race, the Sri Chinmoy Half-Marathon 2025 celebrated perseverance, self-discipline, and community. The supportive environment allowed runners to push past personal limits while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow participants. Spectators cheered enthusiastically along the route, and volunteers offered encouragement that lifted spirits and motivated every runner to finish strong. The event perfectly embodies the philosophy of Sri Chinmoy, where running becomes a meditation in motion, combining physical effort with inner growth.

More Information

 

News #81: New York Post – 3100 Mile Race 2025

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Alex Ramsey crossing the finish line at the 3100 Mile Race 2025

The 3100 Mile Race 2025 recently received coverage in the New York Post following its completion in Queens, New York. Founded in 1801, the New York Post ranks as the third-largest newspaper in the United States by print circulation. Its article highlighted one of the world’s most challenging and unique endurance events. The race, which requires runners to circle a single city block in Queens for 52 days, demonstrates remarkable physical stamina and spiritual perseverance.

You can read the full article here:
World’s longest 3,100-mile marathon is a hellish 50-day loop around a tiny NYC block: ‘eternity’s road’

Highlights from the Race 2025

Additionally, a video featuring highlights from the 3100 Mile Race 2025 offers a vivid glimpse into the runners’ remarkable journey.

You can watch the highlights here:
Highlights of the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race 2025

Global Spotlight on Self-Transcendence

The 3100 Mile Race 2025 attracted elite runners from across the globe, each striving to complete an average of 60 miles per day. Importantly, the New York Post article emphasized not only the physical challenge but also the spiritual dimension of the race. It showcased the participants’ extraordinary mental strength, unwavering discipline, and deep devotion. Furthermore, the story highlighted Sri Chinmoy’s philosophy of self-transcendence—the practice of surpassing personal limitations. Consequently, the race serves as an example of how individuals can achieve incredible feats through focus, endurance, and inner commitment.

Ananda-Lahari Zuscin running past the score board during the 3100 Mile Race 2025

2025 Race Results: Ten Runners Complete the Challenge

In 2025, ten dedicated athletes participated, with eight completing the full 3,100 miles. Notably, five of them achieved this feat for the first time, illustrating both perseverance and determination.

Top Finishers:

  • Andrea Marcato (Italy) – 46 days, 16 hours, 19 minutes, 10 seconds
  • Vasu Duzhiy (Russia) – 48 days, 4 hours, 57 minutes, 52 seconds
  • Mahasatya Janzik (USA) – 48 days, 14 hours, 37 minutes, 45 seconds
  • Alex Ramsey (USA) – 50 days, 9 hours, 53 minutes, 11 seconds
  • Adrian Papuc (Romania) – 50 days, 12 hours, 23 minutes, 23 seconds
  • Milan Javornicky (Czech Republic) – 50 days, 15 hours, 53 minutes, 55 seconds
  • Daniela Bojila (Italy/Romania) – 51 days, 8 hours, 17 minutes, 28 seconds
  • Lucong Geng (China) – 51 days, 16 hours, 26 minutes, 57 seconds
  • Ananda-Lahari Zuscin (USA) – 2,829.2 miles
  • Harita Davies (New Zealand) – 2,790.8 miles

Lucong Geng completing the 3100 Mile Race 2025

A Legacy of Inspiration

Over nearly three decades, the 3100 Mile Race has represented the highest ideal of endurance running. Through perseverance and spiritual aspiration, it continues to inspire thousands across the globe. In addition, the recognition by the New York Post reinforces the race’s universal message: every step taken with sincerity can become a journey toward inner peace and oneness. Consequently, the race stands as both a test of physical limits and a celebration of the human spirit.

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For more information about upcoming events, visit srichinmoyraces.org
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy’s life and philosophy, visit srichinmoy.org

Week 228: I Love Singing

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This week features four inspiring Sri Chinmoy songs. All songs were composed by Sri Chinmoy and beautifully performed by his disciple Purnakama. You can listen to the recordings or download the song scores below.

Songs:

  • Janma Dibas Shapath Harash Ek Ek
  • Birthday and Promise-Ecstasy
  • Jug Jug Dhari Hiyar Bhakati
  • Eternally Devotion-Heart

Enjoy singing along and feeling the soulful message in these Sri Chinmoy songs.

Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Song Scores

 

Lyrics:


1. Janma Dibas Shapath Harash Ek Ek

Janma dibas shapath harash ek ek

Translation:

Birthday and promise-ecstasy – one, one.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘I Implore Your Compassion-Light’ songbook


2. Birthday and Promise-Ecstasy

Birthday and promise-ecstasy – one, one.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘I Implore Your Compassion-Light’ songbook


3. Jug Jug Dhari Hiyar Bhakati

Jug jug dhari hiyar bhakati
Jibana shakati ek sathe chale

Translation:

Eternally
Devotion-heart, power-life
Together move on.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘I Implore Your Compassion-Light’ songbook


4. Eternally Devotion-Heart

Eternally
Devotion-heart, power-life
Together move on.
– Sri Chinmoy, ‘I Implore Your Compassion-Light’ songbook


For more of Sri Chinmoy’s published songs, visit the official website: www.srichinmoysongs.com.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

© 2025 Sri Chinmoy Centre

News #80: Sri Chinmoy Mara-Fun Relays, Centennial Park, Sydney, Australia

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Runners at the Sri Chinmoy Mara-Fun Relays 2025

Event Overview

On Sunday, 19 October 2025, the Sri Chinmoy Mara-Fun Relays returned to Centennial Park, Sydney, offering runners a unique opportunity to complete a marathon distance in a friendly, community-focused environment. Participants ran solo or formed relay teams of 2 to 4 members, each covering a 4 km loop through the picturesque southwestern precinct of Centennial Park. The inclusive format encouraged camaraderie, teamwork, and a supportive atmosphere for runners of all levels.

Scenic Course and Support

The course featured ponds, groves, and open parklands, providing a refreshing backdrop. Relay teams exchanged the baton at the end of each loop. Refreshment stations every 2 km supplied water, sports drinks, and fruit to keep runners energized throughout the event.

Solo and Relay Highlights

In the solo marathon category, Billy Hosni finished first with 3:10:40, followed by Felix Lewis (3:17:35) and Matthew Arnold (3:21:25). Peter Trumper led the M60-69 age group (4:14:32), ahead of Rick Patzold (4:46:57), while Carlos Garcia Velasquez won the M50-59 category (5:31:57). Relay teams of all ages delivered outstanding performances, creating a memorable and supportive event.

Spirit of the Event

The Sri Chinmoy Mara-Fun Relays exemplify self-transcendence through running, blending physical endurance, camaraderie, and joyful participation. Each runner, solo or in a team, contributed to the event’s uplifting energy and community spirit.

Full Race Results

Event Photos

Relive the race and the festive atmosphere through the official Sri Chinmoy Mara-Fun Relays 2025 Photo Gallery

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