A Sacred Journey to Chamundi Hill: Steps of Devotion
Laughter and Surrender
“या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मातृरूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥“
“Yaa Devi Sarva Bhuteshu Matru Rupena Samsthita,
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah!”
(Salutations again and again to the Divine Mother, who resides in all beings in the form of a mother, nurturing and protecting them.)
There are journeys that change our perspective, and then there are journeys that touch our souls. Our recent spiritual expedition to Chamundi Hill was not just a trek—it was a divine experience, a moment of deep connection with Maa Chamundeshwari, and a joyous celebration of togetherness.
On March 5, 2025 (Wednesday), the entire Purna Chetana Public School family—students, educators, non-teaching staff, housekeeping staff, management, our esteemed CEO & CAO—embarked on this memorable journey. It was a well-planned and beautifully organized pilgrimage by our Purna Chetana family members. Taking time out on Sunday (March 2, 2025), for a pre-visit to Chamundi Hills, just to ensure that everything was well-planned and seamless for the upcoming visit, speaks volumes about the commitment and sincerity of our educators. Their dedication ensured that every aspect of the journey—from safety to darshan arrangements—was meticulously taken care of, making the experience smooth and spiritually enriching for all.
Seeking Blessings Before the First Step
Before taking the first step of the 1,008-step journey, we all gathered at the foot of Chamundi Hill at 8:00 AM. With folded hands and pure devotion in our hearts, we offered pooja, praying for a smooth and fulfilling journey. The fragrance of incense sticks filled the air, and the rhythmic chanting of mantras created a divine aura.
With one voice, we roared in devotion—
“जय माता दी! जय चामुण्डेश्वरी माता!”
“Jai Mata Di! Jai Chamundeshwari Mata!”
We invoked the Goddess by chanting her powerful names:
“या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥“
“Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita,
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah!”
(Salutations to the Goddess who resides in all beings as divine power. We bow to her again and again!)
The air vibrated with devotion, and a sense of calm yet powerful energy enveloped us as if Maa Chamundeshwari herself was smiling upon us.
The Excitement of the Climbers
With our hearts filled with faith, we began our ascent. Students were paired with their friends, some holding hands tightly, others playfully challenging each other to see who would reach first. For many, this was their first time climbing Chamundi Hill, and their faces radiated thrill, joy, and a hint of nervousness.
Teachers and staff walked alongside, encouraging and reminding them—
“It’s not just about reaching the top; it’s about experiencing the journey!”
A Playful Interruption: The Naughty Monkeys!
As we climbed higher, we noticed our unexpected co-travellers—the monkeys! 🐒
These mischievous little beings seemed to enjoy our company. Some jumped from tree to tree, some stared at us curiously, and a few even tried snatching water bottles and snacks from the visitors! Laughter erupted when a bold monkey grabbed a banana and ran away, leaving a confused student behind!
“Maa Chamundeshwari’s guardians are making sure we don’t carry too much weight!” someone joked, and everyone laughed.
The presence of these playful monkeys added a touch of humour and light-heartedness to our spiritual journey, reminding us that even in devotion, there is room for joy and laughter.
The Divine Moment: Reaching the Temple
After an exhilarating and fulfilling climb, we finally reached the sacred Chamundi Temple. The darshan was beautifully arranged, with some of our male staff ensuring a smooth and quick darshan.
We stood before Maa Chamundeshwari, our hearts filled with gratitude and surrender. Some closed their eyes in deep prayer, some folded their hands in silent devotion, while others whispered their wishes and thanks to the Goddess.
To make the moment even more powerful, we chanted:
“अयि गिरिनन्दिनि नन्दितमेदिनि विश्वविनोदिनि नन्दिनुते ।
गिरिवरविन्ध्यशिरोधिनिवासिनि विष्णुविलासिनि जिष्णुनुते ॥“
“Ayi Girinandini Nanditamedini Vishwavinodini Nandinute,
Girivaravindhya Shirodhi Nivasini Vishnu Vilasini Jishnu Nute!”
(O Daughter of the Mountain, who brings joy to the world, who resides atop the Vindhya mountains, O Divine Mother, we bow to you!)
The Grand Finale: Chanting at Mahabaleshwara Temple
After seeking Maa Chamundeshwari’s blessings, we visited the 2000-year-old Mahabaleshwara Temple,located right next to it. It was a divine moment when all of us—students, educators, staff, and management—gathered and chanted together:
🕉 Aigiri Nandini Stotra
🕉 Sri Mahalakshmi Ashtaka
🕉 Shiva Namavali
The sound of our voices echoed through the ancient temple, filling the space with sacred energy.
Some of us had tears of devotion, others felt a sense of deep peace, and a few just stood in awe of the moment. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience—to stand before such powerful deities, chanting as one family.
A Journey to Remember
As we made our way back, our hearts were full, our souls uplifted, and our faces glowing with divine satisfaction.
For some, it was a spiritual awakening.
For others, it was a bonding experience of faith and friendship.
For all of us, it was a journey of devotion, surrender, and joy.
As we boarded the bus back, someone humorously said—
“We climbed 1,008 steps, but it felt like Maa Chamundeshwari carried us herself!”
With that, laughter and divine blessings filled the air as we bid farewell to Chamundi Hill, knowing that a part of us would always remain there—in the steps we took, the prayers we chanted, and the love we received.
A Testament to Dedication and Spiritual Purpose
The school’s dedication in organizing the Chamundi Hill pilgrimage showcased immense effort, careful planning, and a deep spiritual purpose. The journey was not just about climbing 1,008 steps but about fostering devotion, unity, and inner strength among students. The joy, laughter, and divine blessings experienced throughout made it an unforgettable and soul-enriching experience, leaving everyone with cherished memories and a profound connection to Maa Chamundeshwari.
I would be truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute this article to our esteemed e-Patrika, a platform where readers beyond our school community can experience and connect with this spiritual journey. Writing about our Chamundi Hill pilgrimage has been a deeply fulfilling experience, allowing me to relive those divine moments and share them with a wider audience. I sincerely appreciate your encouragement and guidance, which continue to inspire me to express my thoughts meaningfully.
“Jai Chamundeshwari Mata!”
