Yajna begins at Chapakot’s Manimukundeshwar Ashram

By Radha Krishna Dumre,Waling, Feb. 26: Gurukul education has seen a steady rise in recent times, prompting efforts to ensure its long-term sustainability. These traditional schools, which focus on imparting both academic knowledge and moral values are drawing more students.

Considering the growing interest of youth in the Gurukul Education system, a grand Mahayagya has begun at the Manimukundeshwar Vedic Ashram Gurukul in Chapakot Municipality-8, Syangja on February 25.

The event which will continue till March 7 aims to preserve the Sanskrit language and culture, revive the historical legacy of King Manimukunda Sen and promote the religious significance of the northern Gandaki region globally. The organisers have announced that discourses on the Skanda Mahapurana will be a highlight of the event, following 17 previous successful scripture readings at the sacred site.

Swami Ishwarananda Maharaj, the founder of the Gurukul, shared plans to develop Manimukundeshwar Dham as a hub for religious tourism, noting its historical importance as the site where 16th-century King Mukunda Sen meditated for 12 years. The northward flow of the Kaligandaki River, an unusual phenomenon worldwide, adds to the area’s spiritual significance.

The Mahayagya also aims to address financial sustainability for the Gurukul, with plans to establish a permanent endowment fund of Rs.10 million. Tirtharaj Baral, the coordinator of the main organising committee, emphasised the importance of generating awareness about the river’s ecological and spiritual value while resisting any diversion efforts.

The event will feature prominent speakers, including Pandit Kuber Subedi as the chief orator and Pandit Punya Prasad Upadhyaya, who will deliver discourses on Shiva’s greatness for the first four days.

Founded in 2008, the Gurukul currently provides education equivalent to Grade 10 to students from districts including Syangja, Kanchanpur, Bajura, Jumla and Mugu. At present, 32 students are enrolled, supported by a team of eight teachers. The event is expected to cost over Rs.2.5 million, according to Gopal Bhattarai, head of the fundraising committee.