The Call of the Soul

In an age when minds are restless and hearts are weary, the yearning for peace is universal. Despite technological progress and material comfort, the human spirit continues to crave something beyond achievement—something eternal, pure, and fulfilling.

The Bhakti Kirtan Retreat with Swami Mukundananda, to be held on October 24–26, 2025, at the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas (Allen, Texas), offers that sacred opportunity for rediscovery. Organized by JKYog (Jagadguru Kripaluji Yog), this retreat is not merely an event—it is a divine experience.

Over three transformative days, seekers step into an atmosphere of chanting, reflection, and inner awakening, guided by Swamiji’s luminous wisdom and the eternal teachings of his Guru, Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj.

This is not just a retreat.

It is a divine homecoming — a return to the heart, to the Lord’s name, and to the presence of Guru.

But before we unfold its sacred details, let us first begin with the offering of a devotee’s heart — a message of reverence, gratitude, and divine recognition.

It speaks not only for the writer, but for every soul that has been touched by Swamiji’s divine mission.

💌 A Devotee’s Message of Reverence and Love

With deepest reverence to Swami Mukundananda Ji, A beacon of divine love and wisdom.

Your life of selfless service, your teachings from the Bhagavad Geeta and the vedic scriptures and your vision to establish Jagadguru Kripalu University in Odisha are inspiring acts of Compassion for the upliftment of humanity. Your words awaken faith, your presence radiates peace and your mission lights the path for countless souls seeking the Divine.

Swamiji, your life is a divine song - each note a prayer, each act a service to God and humanity.

Through your books, teachings, and vision for JK University, you are building Temples not of stories but of wisdom and compassion in countless hearts. With gratitude and devotion, I bow to the light you share so selflessly. Your life of selfless dedication to God and humanity is deeply inspiring.

Through your teachings, spiritual books, noble vision of JK University, you are nurturing enlightened minds and compassionate hearts across the world.

Your tireless service reminds us that devotion and knowledge are the twin lamps guiding us to the Divine.

May we always walk the path you illuminate with such grace.

In your light, we see the path divine.
In your words, God's truth does shine.
A heart so pure, in service awake -
For souls to rise, each step you take.

May God bless you always!
We love you

This message is not merely a testimonial — it is a mirror reflecting the inner experience of countless souls who attend the Bhakti Kirtan Retreat. It sets the tone for what lies ahead:

The Heart of the Retreat: Bhakti and Kirtan

Bhakti — Love as the Soul’s Natural Expression

Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj revealed that bhakti is not a concept to be learned but the soul’s inherent nature. Every being, knowingly or unknowingly, seeks happiness through love. Yet when that love is directed toward the world, it brings bondage; when offered to God, it liberates.

As Maharajji often said:

“When the mind and intellect turn toward God with exclusive love, that is true bhakti.”

This retreat is an invitation to turn that love inward—to rediscover the soul’s original relationship with the Divine.

Kirtan — The Path of Sound and Surrender

Kirtan is more than music—it is a sacred dialogue between the soul and God. In the age of Kali Yuga, when distractions abound and concentration is weak, chanting the Lord’s name becomes the simplest and most powerful means of purification.

Swami Mukundananda often explains:

“In kirtan, the tongue vibrates with divine sound, the ears absorb sacred vibrations, and the mind begins to dwell on God. Gradually, the entire being becomes spiritualized.”

As devotees sing together—“Radhe Shyam,” “Govind,” “Hari Bol”—the noise of the world dissolves. Every repetition deepens the connection, transforming sound into silence, emotion into devotion, and longing into love. 

The Guiding Light: JKYog’s Vision and Mission

Founded by Swami Mukundananda under the inspiration of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, JKYog is dedicated to spreading authentic spiritual knowledge and practical lifestyle disciplines that harmonize body, mind, and soul.

Its teachings rest on a simple yet profound principle: Yoga is not limited to postures—it is the union of the individual soul with God.

Swamiji explains,

“When we integrate physical discipline, mental balance, and spiritual focus, life becomes a seamless expression of devotion.”

Through retreats, workshops, online classes, and seva initiatives, JKYog brings the timeless wisdom of the Vedas to seekers across the globe in a modern, relatable way.

Swami Mukundananda — A Saint for the Modern World

Few spiritual leaders blend intellectual brilliance with devotional sweetness as seamlessly as Swami Mukundananda. A graduate of IIT Delhi and IIM Calcutta, Swamiji renounced worldly life to dedicate himself to spiritual service.

As a direct disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, he carries forward his Guru’s mission—to awaken divine love in every heart. Swamiji’s teachings combine jnana (wisdom) and bhakti (love), blending ancient truths with scientific clarity.

He reminds seekers:

“You cannot love what you do not know, and you cannot know what you do not love. Therefore, spiritual knowledge and devotion must go hand in hand.”

At the Bhakti Kirtan Retreat, Swamiji embodies that harmony—explaining profound scriptural truths in the morning, and in the evening, leading devotees into states of ecstatic chanting and meditation.

The Venue: A Temple of Living Devotion

The Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas (Allen, Texas) serves as the heart of JKYog’s U.S. mission. Its serene architecture, sanctified energy, and welcoming community make it an ideal sanctuary for deep spiritual practice.

During the retreat, the temple transforms into a world of divine vibration. Incense fills the air, lamps flicker softly, and the sound of mridangas and kartals echo through the halls. Families, youth, and seniors join hands, chanting in unison.

Maharajji often said,

“God resides where His name is sung with love.”

At this retreat, that statement comes alive.

Retreat Overview: What Awaits You

Event Details

• Dates: October 24–26, 2025
• Venue: Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas, Allen, Texas
• Timings:
  • Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM
• Includes: Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), event materials, and all sessions
• Open to: All ages and backgrounds—children, families, and elders alike

The Flow of the Three Days

1. Soul-Stirring Kirtans

The retreat’s heartbeat lies in its kirtans—the joyful chanting of divine names. As Swami Mukundananda often says, “When the tongue sings of God and the heart listens, devotion awakens naturally.” Through call-and-response singing, bhajans, and melodic recitations, the entire atmosphere becomes charged with sacred vibration. Each repetition builds momentum, filling the temple halls with a living current of divine love that uplifts and purifies every participant.

2. Pad Vyakhya – Scriptural Wisdom and Devotional Discourse

Swamiji’s Pad Vyakhya sessions are deeply transformative. With clarity and compassion, he explains verses from scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavatam, revealing their inner essence. Drawing upon the teachings of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, Swamiji bridges intellect and emotion—showing how the philosophy of bhakti can be lived daily. Each discourse flows naturally into musical practice, helping participants not only understand the path of devotion but experience it directly.

3. Guided Meditation and Sadhana Practice

Between moments of music and discourse, the retreat offers guided meditations that allow the heart to turn inward. Under Swamiji’s gentle guidance, participants practice mindfulness, pranayama, and inner reflection—cultivating calm, gratitude, and divine connection. These meditative pauses balance the energy of kirtan, grounding the mind while uplifting the soul.

4. Q&A and Devotional Mehfil

Spiritual growth blossoms through understanding, and Swamiji encourages open dialogue with seekers. During Q&A sessions, participants can ask heartfelt questions about life, faith, and spiritual progress. Evenings often feature a Mehfil—a sacred gathering where devotees offer bhajans, poetry, or music in loving dedication to God and Guru. These moments create an atmosphere of humility and joy, giving every participant a chance to express their inner devotion. 

5. Cultural and Community Celebrations

The retreat beautifully blends devotion with celebration. Participants enjoy vibrant cultural performances, traditional dances, and festival processions such as Rath Yatra. These joyous expressions embody the spirit of bhakti—where even art, movement, and fellowship become offerings to the Divine. The shared laughter, connection, and collective energy remind everyone that spirituality can be both profound and joyous.

6. Sangeet Sammelan – A Symphony of Devotion

On the final evening, the retreat culminates in a Sangeet Sammelan—a devotional talent showcase where participants and musicians unite their voices in praise. Whether through instruments, dance, or song, each contribution becomes an act of worship. The Sammelan captures the retreat’s essence: unity in diversity, love in expression, and divinity in every note.

The Inner Teachings of the Retreat

1. Humility — The Doorway to Bhakti

Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj often said that humility is the first ornament of a devotee. Pride separates the soul from God, while humility brings divine grace rushing in.

Through every kirtan, bow, and act of service, participants learn that true strength lies in surrender.

Swamiji reminds,

“A humble heart attracts God faster than a brilliant intellect.”

2. Grace — The Hidden Hand of the Divine

According to Maharajji, bhakti is not achieved by effort but bestowed by grace. Our chanting and meditation prepare the vessel, but the filling of that vessel is through God’s grace.

Swamiji echoes this truth:

“Grace is not earned; it is received. The more we surrender, the more we invite divine compassion into our lives.”

The retreat helps devotees shift from striving to surrendering—from “doing” to “being.”

3. Purification of the Mind

Both Maharajji and Swamiji emphasize that the mind is the key to liberation. It can be our greatest enemy or our greatest friend.

Kirtan, meditation, and scriptural contemplation work together to cleanse the mind of negativity and attachment. As participants chant, old impressions dissolve, leaving the heart lighter and more receptive to divine joy.

Maharajji’s timeless verse captures this perfectly:

“The mind that loves God becomes the temple where God resides.”

4. Harmony of Knowledge and Love

Swamiji’s unique contribution to modern spirituality lies in harmonizing jnana (knowledge) and bhakti (love). Knowledge provides direction; love provides momentum.

He often says,

“Without knowledge, devotion becomes sentimental. Without devotion, knowledge remains dry. When both unite, they create illumination.”

This synthesis is at the heart of the Bhakti Kirtan Retreat.

5. Collective Devotion — Power of Satsang

Maharajji frequently declared,

“One candle can light another; similarly, one devotee’s love can awaken hundreds.”

The retreat exemplifies this truth. Singing, meditating, and serving together amplifies the energy of devotion. The group’s sincerity lifts each individual beyond personal limitations.

As Swamiji explains,

“In satsang, we borrow strength from one another. When many hearts beat as one in divine remembrance, God manifests there effortlessly.”

Transformations Participants Experience

The Bhakti Kirtan Retreat leaves a deep imprint on the soul. Participants often describe inner changes that continue long after the event:

• A quiet mind no longer overwhelmed by anxiety
• Joy that arises without external cause
• Spontaneous love for God and fellow beings
• Healing of emotional wounds through surrender
• Renewed enthusiasm for seva and sadhana

These are not fleeting moods but enduring shifts in consciousness. They reflect Maharajji’s assurance:

“Even one drop of sincere devotion can wash away lifetimes of ignorance.”

Integrating the Experience into Daily Life

The retreat is a beginning, not an end. Swamiji encourages all participants to continue their spiritual growth through consistent practice.

Daily Remembrance

Spend a few minutes every morning in chanting or silent prayer. The mind must be trained like a child—lovingly but firmly.

Regular Satsang

Attend weekly JKYog satsangs or join online kirtan sessions. The company of devotees nourishes the flame of bhakti.

Service as Meditation

Offer your talents, time, or kindness in service to others. Maharajji taught that when seva is done selflessly, it purifies faster than meditation.

Study and Reflection

Revisit Swamiji’s discourses, read his books, or watch his lectures. Understanding deepens faith, and faith deepens experience.

Carry the Vibration

Keep devotional music playing at home. Even while driving or cooking, let divine names flow through your environment.

As Swamiji says,

“Let your home become an ashram, and your heart become a temple.”

The Deeper Relevance of the Retreat in Our Time

In today’s world of stress, loneliness, and distraction, spirituality often feels distant. Yet Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj’s message reminds us that divine love is our birthright—closer than breath, simpler than thought.

Swamiji continues this mission by bringing those teachings into modern life. He often notes:

“People are not hungry for religion; they are hungry for experience. When devotion is practiced sincerely, experience becomes inevitable.”

The Bhakti Kirtan Retreat provides that direct experience. It bridges the gap between philosophy and feeling, between study and surrender.

Here, seekers don’t just learn about God—they begin to feel His presence.

Preparing for October 2025: A Divine Invitation

As autumn approaches, the devotees of JKYog eagerly await this sacred gathering—the final U.S. retreat with Swami Mukundananda in 2025.

If your heart feels drawn, consider it divine calling.

How to Prepare

• Register early: Seats fill quickly.
• Arrange travel: Nearby accommodations often provide discounts.
• Free your weekend: Keep distractions minimal.
• Bring essentials: Comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, and a journal.
• Come with openness: Expect nothing—receive everything.

The retreat welcomes everyone—newcomers and seasoned devotees alike. No prior experience is needed, only sincerity.

A Retreat Beyond Time

Ultimately, the Bhakti Kirtan Retreat is more than a weekend—it is a journey back to the Source.

When Swamiji leads the final chant on Sunday, the hall resonates with hundreds of voices crying “Radhey Radhey!” In that divine chorus, worldly identities vanish. There is no “I” or “you”—only love.

Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj beautifully expressed this state:

“When the soul forgets the world and remembers only God, that moment is liberation.”

That is the essence of the retreat. 

Final Reflection: The Music That Never Ends

As the retreat concludes, devotees carry home a song that continues long after the instruments are silent. Every breath becomes a chant; every act becomes an offering.

In Swamiji’s words:

“Let your life become a living kirtan—where your thoughts, words, and actions all glorify the Divine.”

Through the grace of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj and the guidance of Swami Mukundananda, this retreat becomes a gateway—not to escape the world, but to rediscover God within it.

Come, join this sacred celebration of love and devotion.
Let your heart sing.
Let your soul remember.

Call to Action

Don’t miss this rare chance to ignite your heart with devotion and deepen your spiritual journey!

Spaces are limited, and this will be Swamiji’s final U.S. retreat of 2025. Reserve your seat today and prepare to be transformed by the vibration of divine sound, sacred wisdom, and collective devotion.

We look forward to welcoming you into this divine gathering of hearts.

FAQs

1. What is the Bhakti Kirtan Retreat?
The Bhakti Kirtan Retreat is a three-day immersive spiritual experience led by Swami Mukundananda, where participants engage in kirtans, guided meditations, thought-provoking discourses, and community celebration. The retreat blends sound, devotion, and wisdom to awaken divine love within.

2. Who can attend the retreat?
Everyone is welcome! The retreat embraces seekers of all ages—from children and teens to adults and seniors. Whether you are new to spirituality or already walking the devotional path, you will find the sessions deeply enriching.

3. Do I need to register in advance?
Yes, advance registration is required to attend. This ensures smooth planning for meals, materials, and seating. You can register easily online through the official Radha Krishna Temple website.

4. What is included with the registration?
Your registration covers full access to all retreat sessions, delicious vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and retreat materials. Every detail—from the serene atmosphere to the satsang experience—is lovingly arranged for your spiritual comfort.

5. What should I bring to the retreat?
Come as you are, but a few essentials will enhance your experience:

• Comfortable clothing suitable for sitting and meditation
• A notebook or journal for reflection
• An open, humble heart ready to receive divine grace

6. Can I attend only part of the retreat?
You may attend selected sessions, but the retreat is designed as a complete experience. Staying for all three days allows you to move gradually from outer awareness to inner stillness and feel the full depth of transformation.

7. Are lodging and travel arrangements provided?
The temple doesn’t provide overnight lodging, but several nearby hotels offer special discounted rates for retreat participants. You’ll find accommodation details on the registration page or by contacting the temple team.

8. How much does it cost to attend?
The registration fee is $50 per person, which covers the entire three-day experience including meals. Children under age 3 may attend free of charge. The modest contribution helps support temple activities and retreat logistics.