Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Rediscovering the Power of Socio-Religious Gatherings

As Gomathi sat with her group of friends after the weekend, her face lit up as she recounted her visit to the grand "Gayatri Yagya." The event, she explained, had left a profound impact on her. "I was awed by the grandeur, the meticulous arrangements, and most of all, the energy and devotion of thousands of attendees. It wasn’t just about religion; it was about community, values, and a shared sense of purpose," she said.?

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Neeta, her friend, frowned. “What’s the point of these massive gatherings? Crowds, noise, and rituals—it’s just not my thing. Honestly, I’d rather spend my weekend relaxing with my family or watching Netflix.”?

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Gomathi smiled, unruffled. “I used to think the same way,” she replied gently. “But this weekend, I realized something deeper. These events are so much more than rituals or religion. They’re about coming together as a community, learning, and reflecting on how we live our lives. The devotion and selfless service of the volunteers blew me away. It wasn’t just about faith—it was about inspiring positive change.”?

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Neeta shrugged. “They probably just collect donations and waste money on these events. That money could be used for something better,” she said dismissively.?

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“Exactly my earlier thought!” Gomathi nodded. “But I witnessed something that completely changed my perspective. From the moment we arrived, everything was so well-organized—parking, registrations, seating, even the token system for shoes. Thousands of volunteers worked tirelessly, and no one demanded anything in return. I saw people giving up their seats for elders or those in need, and despite the long hours, everyone was radiating positivity. The atmosphere wasn’t just spiritual—it was transformative.”?

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Curious now, another friend asked, “But what kind of transformation are you talking about?”?

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Gomathi continued, “The speakers weren’t just preaching religion. They spoke about real societal issues—wasteful spending on weddings, the importance of raising children with ethical values, reducing screen time, empowering women, and eradicating social evils like female foeticide. It wasn’t about rituals; it was about practical solutions to problems we see every day.”?

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Neeta crossed her arms. “So they just talked about things we already know?”?

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“No, Neeta,” Gomathi explained. “They created a space where people could truly listen, reflect, and commit to change. That’s the power of these gatherings. I remembered how my parents used to take us to similar events. Even with limited resources, they ensured we experienced the sense of community and shared values these events bring. Now, in our affluence and busy lives, we’ve lost that connection. But attending this event brought back those memories and made me realize what we’re missing.”?

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"I was also reminded of the old days when saints would visit our home. My mother would cook delicious meals for them with so much love and serve them wholeheartedly. As children, we’d watch in awe, feeling their calm and inspiring presence, and treasure the warmth and affection they showered on us. Those moments were so special, filled with a sense of belonging and positivity. Somewhere along the way, we’ve lost those connections in the rush of modern life.”?

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Neeta was silent for a moment, her expression softening. She recalled her parents’ financial struggles after her sister’s extravagant wedding, something they had felt pressured to do. She thought of her friend who had been forced to make a heartbreaking decision of abortion because of societal expectations. Slowly, she began to understand the importance of such events in addressing these very issues.?

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She also realized how her own mindset had imprisoned her. “I used to think these events were attended by people with nothing else to do in life—people wasting time,” she admitted. “But now I see the meticulous planning behind them. There’s so much effort involved—permissions from authorities, organizing volunteers, and selfless service by thousands of people that often goes unnoticed. It’s not about leisure; it’s about creating a ripple effect of positivity and change.”?

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“You’re right, Gomathi,” Neeta continued. “I’ve been quick to judge. These events might actually help people rethink their priorities and make better choices.”?

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Encouraged by Neeta’s shift, Gomathi added, “What impressed me most was how the organizers adapted to challenges. For instance, due to new directives, the yagya was transformed into a ‘Deep Yagya’ with lamps instead of fire rituals. It showed their commitment to the cause while respecting the authorities and the environment.”?

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By now, the entire group was intrigued. “When’s the next event, Gomathi?” one of them asked eagerly.?

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Gomathi beamed. “Since I’ve registered with them, they’ll share details about future events. I’ll let you know as soon as I hear.”?

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Gomathi nodded knowingly. “It’s amazing what we can learn when we step out of our comfort zones. Sometimes, these experiences remind us of the values we’ve forgotten and the changes we need to make in our lives.”

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As the group dispersed, it was clear that Gomathi’s experience had planted a seed of curiosity and reflection in their minds. What began as scepticism turned into a collective realization of the importance of such socio-religious events in nurturing values, inspiring change, and reconnecting with a sense of shared humanity.?

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Later that evening, Neeta showed Gomathi a news clipping about the event’s successful adaptation to regulatory changes. “I’m really impressed by how they handled this,” Neeta admitted with a smile.?

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