According to yogic traditions, each day is linked to a specific shakti and Diwali happens to be a special day

The universe operates under the influence of various shaktis (divine energies). As one advances in yogic practice (sadhana), these energies can be experienced directly. Each of the 365 days is associated with a specific shakti, which is why maintaining discipline and consistent daily practice in yoga is crucial. Missing even a single day can disrupt the connection with that day’s shakti, potentially setting back the entire year’s sadhana. In the cosmos, every element is interconnected, so when one aspect is neglected, it affects everything—our body, the Earth, and even other planets and stars. Each shakti is associated with a day, but accessing these energies does not require rituals. In yogic and tantric traditions, sadhana alone is the key to connecting with shakti. Understanding the form (swaroop) of each shakti is essential. While every form has a specific name, names are revealed only after the body is prepared through particular sadhanas. At a basic level, when you meditate (dhyan) with your guru, you may see different forms manifesting in them, such as the sun or the moon. Have you ever wondered what these forms signify?

Many practitioners have reported seeing the sun during meditation. What makes the sun so significant? If you observe the sun at sunrise or sunset while focusing on the Manipura chakra (navel centre) and chanting the mantra “Ram,” you will notice a glow emerging in your body. Within a month, you may begin to look noticeably different. However, a word of caution—any yogic practice should be undertaken under the guidance of a guru who can adapt it to your capacity. Similarly, the moon is a fascinating energy source. It merely reflects the sun’s light, yet it can influence tides and even the Earth’s surface during a full moon. Have you ever considered what makes the moon special? On full moon nights, animals may behave aggressively, and incidents of accidents and conflicts tend to rise. These are just basic observations that hint at something deeper about these celestial forms. Understanding their true nature requires direct experience, which is attainable through the proper practice of Sanatan Kriya. The moon may appear calm and peaceful, but it is actually more volatile than the sun. When you observe the moon under a guru’s guidance, you can perceive the mantras embedded within its form. Some shaktis are not directly visible and can only be accessed through other shaktis. These experiences form the foundation of yoga. Without direct experience, yoga remains incomplete. Nature, with all its wonders—from flowers of various colors to the sky above—contains the hidden forms of shaktis. If you observe these elements without blinking, under the guidance of a guru, you may find that your physical and mental imbalances begin to dissipate. However, discipline (niyam) is essential. The practice must be continuous, and disruptions will occur if one lacks the capacity for the shakti or does not have a guru to guide them.

Everything around us contains the essence of shakti, and these energies are easily accessible. When one becomes steady and focused on a particular shakti, it starts to follow them, empowering their life. The nine days leading up to Diwali hold special significance because of the congregation of specific shaktis during this period. Our ancestors advised observing celibacy (brahmacharya) during these days to strengthen the body and prepare it to receive these energies. During this time, keep your mind centred within yourself, as the sadhana performed during these nine days is equivalent to months of practice. As Diwali approaches, especially on Amavasya (the new moon night), when we light diyas, it is an opportune time for shakti sadhana. Even a layperson who is not an experienced practitioner can perceive the swaroop of shakti by sitting with closed eyes in meditation. With a pure heart, one can experience these divine energies without any elaborate rituals. Let this Diwali be a time to connect with the powerful shaktis, embracing their presence to enrich your spiritual journey.

(The writer is a spiritual guru; views are personal)