Tag: Yatkara

Video #329: Epic Spirit – Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra 50 km & 100 km

Posted on by Yatkara

A Spirit of Self-Transcendence in Paris Woods

The Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra – 50 km & 100 km event on July 19, 2025, was a remarkable celebration of endurance, harmony, and inner strength in the beautiful Bois de Vincennes. At 8:00 AM, 47 ultrarunners began the 100 km race, looping through a 1,589 m circuit of shaded woodland and paved paths. Later in the morning, 69 athletes set out for the 50 km, and by the end, 60 runners crossed the finish line, a testament to both physical stamina and spiritual resilience. 

This year’s edition brought fresh changes: the race village was relocated, and the loop was extended by approximately 280 meters, introducing a new turnaround that challenged participants to adapt with grace.  Though weather forecasts hinted at both heat and storms, nature remained calm for most of the day. A gentle evening rain greeted runners at the end — quietly poetic, almost like a blessing for their efforts. 

The Heart of the Race: More Than Distance

Watching the slideshow, you’ll feel more than just the rhythm of feet on pavement — you’ll sense a shared journey. There are scenes of runners rounding the loop, strong but humble, faces marked by effort and inner calm. Aid stations offer water, energy drinks, and fresh fruit, while volunteers cheer, encouraging each lap with warmth. 

What makes this event so special is the mix of experience: elite ultrarunners standing alongside veteran runners in their 60s and even 70s, all united by a deeper drive than speed alone. This isn’t just a competition — it’s a community of self-transcendence, a place where the personal challenge becomes a spiritual practice.

Sri Chinmoy Paris Ultra runners on loop course

Reflections & Meaning

If we run, we see our capacities becoming fully manifested. … But when we run, we bring to the fore our hidden capacities and are able to do something and become something

— Sri Chinmoy, The outer running and the inner running

This race, and this video, embody that truth. Every step, every loop, every quiet moment in the woods feels like an offering — not just to the finish line, but to something greater within.

For those who want to dive deeper into the event, check out News #53 (posted  August 11, 2025).

Why This Video Matters

This video isn’t just a recap — it’s a meditation in motion. It invites you into a space where every lap becomes a moment of reflection, and every runner’s effort is a silent prayer. If you’ve followed Sri Chinmoy’s races before, or are discovering them for the first time, this is a powerful reminder of what true endurance looks like — not just in miles, but in spirit.

Photos, Results, and Event Highlights

A Continuing Legacy of Inspiration

Sri Chinmoy’s races continue to inspire runners worldwide. They remind us that endurance is not only about distance but also about discovering inner strength and peace.

Learn More

Video #328: Agnikana’s Group A Meditative Concert in Budapest

Posted on by Yatkara

On November 6, Agnikana’s Group performed a deeply calming and meditative concert at MagNet Közösségi Ház in Budapest, Hungary. They often visit Hungary for concerts, and this year was no exception. On their way to Serbia, they stopped in Budapest for this very special evening “surrounded by plants,” which added to the sense of peace and harmony. The live recording weaves together angelic vocals with harmonium, wooden flutes, santur, violin, metalophone, bells, and soft rhythmic percussion. The atmosphere is immersive and serene, offering listeners a profound experience of inner stillness.

Meet Agnikana’s Group

Agnikana’s Group was founded in 1997 by Czech musician Agnikána Senkyříková, and remains fully devoted to performing the music of Sri Chinmoy.   The ensemble is all-female, with members primarily from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria, and Switzerland.   They sing in Bengali and English — the very languages in which Sri Chinmoy composed many of his songs.   Their purpose isn’t commercial — instead, they aim to evoke a profound space of harmony, peace, and purity where listeners can connect with meditation through music.  

Global Reach & Discography

Over nearly three decades, Agnikana’s Group has offered well over 200 public performances across Europe, Asia, and North America.   Their discography is rich and deeply spiritual. According to their website and Bandcamp, their albums include:

  • Bhagaban (2003)  
  • In My Heart-Sky (2008)  
  • Dream, Always Dream (2010)  
  • Premaloker (2013)  
  • Live in Concert I (2015)  
  • My Gratitude-Heart (2016)  
  • Khama Karo (2019)  

Each album reflects their dedication to Sri Chinmoy’s meditative compositions and their desire to share a heartfelt, spiritual resonance with their listeners.

Sri Chinmoy’s Musical Vision

Sri ChinmoySri Chinmoy (1931–2007) was a spiritual teacher, poet, artist, athlete, and prolific composer.  He composed thousands of songs in Bengali and English, offering his music as a path for inner peace. His melodies carry simplicity and depth, inviting listeners to connect with their innermost being. Through music, he aimed to create a bridge between the human heart and the Divine, inspiring calmness, reflection, and joy.

His teachings remind us that music is not just sound – it is a vehicle for meditation, self-transcendence, and spiritual awakening. Every note has the power to uplift, heal, and bring the listener closer to silence and inner harmony. Agnikana’s Group, by performing his compositions, embodies this vision in every concert, allowing audiences to experience a journey of peace and devotion through sound.

When we listen to soulful music … immediately our inner existence climbs up high, higher, highest.  

– Sri Chinmoy, God the Supreme Musician (1976)

Why This Video Resonates

This Budapest concert captured on video is more than just a performance — it is a spiritual offering. As you watch and listen, you’re invited to pause, reflect, and access a space of quiet upliftment. Agnikana’s Group doesn’t just sing – they open a doorway into peace.

Learn More & Listen

News #93: Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon in Canberra – A Day of Endurance, Teamwork and Inspiration

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The Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon took place across Canberra on Sunday, 9 November 2025. The event brought together solo athletes and relay teams for one of Australia’s most inspiring endurance races. Now in its 28th year, the Triple-Tri once again turned Canberra’s lakes, hills, and trails into a joyful celebration of fitness, friendship, and self-transcendence.

Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon 2025 – A Day of Endless Challenges and Triumphs

The Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon combines three complete triathlons into one continuous course. Competitors swim, cycle, and run around Canberra’s natural landscapes – Lake Ginninderra, Lake Burley Griffin, and Lake Tuggeranong. Together, these stages cover more than 200 kilometres. The event demands strength, focus, and resilience. However, it also offers an experience of oneness, as solo athletes and relay teams encourage one another throughout the day.

Conditions were ideal. Cool air and calm water made for fast times. Moreover, volunteers and spectators filled each transition zone, cheering athletes onward and creating an uplifting atmosphere from start to finish.

About Sri Chinmoy

The Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon is inspired by Sri Chinmoy, a spiritual leader and athlete who promoted self-transcendence through running, meditation, and sports. He believed that physical endurance and inner growth go hand in hand, encouraging athletes to push beyond perceived limits while cultivating joy, focus, and perseverance. Learn more about his life and philosophy here.

The real voyage is not to the finish line, but to the deeper self you discover along the way.

– Sri Chinmoy

Solo Athletes: A Close Finish and Historic Performances

The solo division produced one of the most dramatic finishes in Triple-Tri history. Jonathan Grady built an early lead after the second swim and held it to the end, winning in 12 hours 51 minutes 36 seconds.

Behind him, an intense contest unfolded. David Baldwin, returning after several years away, surged through the final run to claim second overall in 12 hours 52 minutes 21 seconds, only a minute behind Grady. Just seconds later, Blake Fretwell crossed the line in 12 hours 52 minutes 52 seconds, taking third place overall and second in the Male Under 50 category. Three finishers within two minutes offered a remarkable display of endurance and determination.

Meanwhile, multiple champion Julie Quinn returned to her favourite course. She set a new F50+ record of 12 hours 54 minutes 48 seconds, reaffirming her title as the “Queen of the Triple-Tri.” Her calm focus and smooth consistency inspired everyone who watched.

Team Divisions: Strength in Unity

The team divisions highlighted the joy of collaboration. In the All-Female Teams of Three, the veteran “Spring Chickens” – Sam Reinhardt, Cristy Henderson, and Susie Kluth – completed the course in 12 hours 27 minutes 09 seconds, setting a new record for their category.

The Open Teams of Three saw “Stuffed Puffs” – Ben Buchler, David Osmond, and Adrian Sheppard – retain their crown with 10 hours 18 minutes 26 seconds. Furthermore, “Geriathletes” finished next in 10 hours 40 minutes 24 seconds, followed by “The Diggers” in 11 hours 05 minutes 46 seconds.

Among the Teams of Four to Nine, “Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost” claimed line honours with 9 hours 38 minutes 08 seconds, winning by a wide margin. “Triple Threat” took second in 10 hours 30 minutes 27 seconds, and “Bilby Baggins” secured third in 10 hours 36 minutes 01 second.

In addition, the All-Female Team of Nine, “Giant Wollongong,” finished strongly in 11 hours 58 minutes 44 seconds. Two youth-dominated teams, “Majura Machines” and “We Don’t Want Cramps,” impressed everyone with their energy and teamwork, showing promise for the future of endurance sport in Canberra.

Community, Volunteers, and Spirit

Every athlete’s success was supported by a large team of volunteers. They staffed checkpoints, prepared food, and guided participants across the trails. Their cheerfulness and care created the welcoming atmosphere that defines the Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon. Therefore, this event is not only about competition – it also celebrates cooperation, gratitude, and joy.

The organisers expressed heartfelt thanks to the Canberra community for its hospitality and support. As a result, the race continues to grow in spirit and reputation, remaining a highlight of the Australian endurance calendar.

Results & Event Info – Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon 2025

Full Results:

Additional Resources:

Reflection

The Sri Chinmoy Triple-Triathlon 2025 once again celebrated endurance, teamwork, and the human spirit. It reminded all participants that perseverance is built through inner faith and steady progress.

When you challenge your limits, you discover that your only real limit is your lack of faith in yourself.

– Sri Chinmoy

Explore upcoming Sri Chinmoy races and results: www.srichinmoyraces.org
Learn about Sri Chinmoy’s life and teachings: www.srichinmoy.org

 

News #91: Madal Bal Brings Tools and Spiritual Vision to Ferretexpo in Guatemala

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Madal Bal Guatemala team inspired by Sri Chinmoy

From 6 to 9 November 2025, Madal Bal Guatemala participated in Ferretexpo 2025 at Expo Center Tikal Futura in Guatemala City. While the event highlighted tools and machinery, Madal Bal offered more than products. They shared a vision inspired by Sri Chinmoy, blending service, purpose, and mindfulness in every action.

Serving with Purpose

Madal Bal isn’t just about tools; it’s about work with heart. Each interaction, demonstration, and solution reflected Sri Chinmoy’s teaching: “Run to achieve success in the outer world. Reach to make progress in the inner world.” Visitors explored not only innovative tools but also the idea that work can uplift both the maker and the community.

Global Impact, Local Presence

Madal Bal’s influence reaches across continents – from Europe to the Americas. In Guatemala, their presence shows how outer action and inner consciousness go hand in hand. Moreover, the company’s network demonstrates that service, meditation, and harmony can be part of everyday business, making each project meaningful.

Community, Craft, and Consciousness

During the four-day expo, Madal Bal shared practical knowledge. They encouraged mindful practices in construction, design, and teamwork. As a result, visitors saw how business can become a path for inner growth. The expo created a space where professional skill and spiritual awareness meet.

Honoring Sri Chinmoy

Sri Chinmoy dedicated his life to harmonizing physical achievement with inner development – through ultra-distance races, art, music, and humanitarian service. Madal Bal’s work in Guatemala brings this philosophy to life. It shows that service, mindfulness, and excellence can thrive together.

Madal Bal Guatemala continues to inspire professionals and communities alike. They offer tools and guidance to build with purpose, consciousness, and care.

Explore More

Check out Madal Bal’s full history and international operations at madalbal.com.
For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.

News #88: Unlock Inner Peace at Dublin’s Festival of Meditation – 20–31 October 2025

Posted on by Yatkara

Information for Dublin Meditation Festival, 20–31 October 2025

From 20 to 31 October 2025, over 600 participants gathered in Dublin for the annual Festival of Meditation, organised by the Dublin Sri Chinmoy Centre at the Carmelite Community Centre. This two-week festival offered attendees a unique opportunity to explore inner peace, mindfulness, and spiritual growth.

Two Weeks of Discovery and Calm

Each evening, starting at 18:30, featured guided meditation, masterclasses, mantra music, and workshops. These sessions aimed to bring stillness and reflection into daily life. For example, participants explored Silence in Music & Meditation, Self-Transcendence, Sport & Meditation, and From Ego-Loneliness to Oneness-Happiness. Furthermore, weekends and evenings offered intensive opportunities, including a multi-night course for deeper practice.

Program Highlights

  • Mon 20 Oct: Opening masterclass — Three Ways to Reach the Highest in Meditation – and One Essential Secret You’ll Need to Start!
  • Tue 21 Oct: Silence in Music and Meditation — exploring how sound and stillness meet.
  • Wed 22 Oct: Self-Transcendence, Sport & Meditation — linking physical performance with spiritual growth.
  • Thu 23 Oct: From Ego-Loneliness to Oneness-Happiness — bridging isolation and connection.
  • Fri 24 Oct: Mantric Music Evening — a concert of meditation music.
  • Sat 25 Oct: Introduction to Meditation Workshop — perfect for beginners and returners alike.
  • Tue 28–Fri 31 Oct: Four-night intensive meditation course for committed practitioners.

A Warm Community Experience

Attendees described the atmosphere as friendly, inclusive, and inspiring. Beginners felt welcomed, while long-time meditators discovered fresh insights. The Centre emphasises that meditation is not an escape, but a practical way of living with more presence, service, and heart.

Embracing Inner Peace

In today’s fast-paced world, the Festival of Meditation Dublin provided a rare pause for reflection. Whether attendees came seeking clarity, stress relief, or simply a new experience, the event encouraged everyone to step into stillness, rediscover joy, and connect deeply with themselves and others.

More Details

Explore More

For more information about events, visit the official website: www.srichinmoycentre.org.
To learn more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit: www.srichinmoy.org.