The World Sanatana Dharma Community invites followers of the tradition and all those sincerely interested in spiritual practice to participate in the Durga Navaratri program and the celebration of the Guru’s Appearance Day on October 10–25, 2026, at the Shiva Prem Sagar Ashram in Umbria, Italy.
Throughout the program, daily pujas and fire rituals will be performed, satsangs with the Guru will be held, as well as initiation ceremonies. The central events will be the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga, diksha, and Vyasa Puja—the traditional day of honoring the Guru and the parampara, the line of spiritual succession.
Program
October 10 — Arrival at the Ashram
reception and accommodation of participants;
introduction to the ashram’s organization and rules;
optional evening group practice.
October 11–20 — Durga Navaratri
Worship of the nine aspects of Durga in accordance with the liturgical sequence established by the ashram.
The daily program includes:
homa — a fire ritual with offerings;
puja — ritual worship at the altar;
satsang — a meeting with the Guru devoted to expounding the teachings and answering questions;
personal and group sadhana.
October 22 — Diksha
initiation into the “Eight Protections of Shiva” practice;
transmission of instructions;
the opportunity to receive a spiritual name;
sharanagati samskara for eligible participants.
October 24 — Vyasa Puja and the Guru’s Appearance Day
The principal day of honoring the Guru and the line of spiritual succession:
ceremonial puja;
offerings to the Guru and the parampara;
singing of bhajans;
the Guru’s address to the disciples;
community celebration.
October 25 — Conclusion of the Program
concluding practice;
organizational announcements;
departure of participants.
Venue
Shiva Prem Sagar Ashram Umbria, Italian Republic.
The ashram is the main center of the World Sanatana Dharma Community and the residence of the Guru and monastics. The exact address, arrival procedure, and transportation recommendations will be provided to participants after registration.
Participation
The program is open both to experienced practitioners and to those encountering the tradition for the first time. Participation in individual days of the program is possible by prior arrangement with the organizers.
A distinction should be made between:
participation in public worship services and satsangs;
attendance at preparatory sessions;
admission to diksha and ceremonies for undertaking discipleship commitments.
The decision to receive initiation should be made consciously, after becoming familiar with the content of the practice, the rules of the tradition, and the disciple’s commitments.
What to Bring
clean white clothing for participation in ritual practices;
loose, comfortable clothing for performing asanas;
any necessary medications;
documents required for travel to and accommodation in Italy.
Participants are advised to clarify in advance the requirements for ritual clothing, accommodation arrangements, and the rules for staying at the ashram.
Meals
During the program, vegetarian meals will be provided in accordance with the ashram’s established schedule. The organizers must be informed of any allergies, medical restrictions, and special dietary requirements prior to arrival.
Registration and Contact Information
Advance registration is mandatory, especially for those wishing to receive diksha, obtain a spiritual name, or undergo sharanagati samskara.
Contact details are provided below.
