Dragged to Kotagiri

April 26, 1995

Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu

Dear Parents,

For so many days Jnaneswari was doing her utmost to get me to come with her to the hill station Kotagiri, where there is a branch of Shanti Ashram. Jnaneswari had not gone for two years so had to look after various work projects and activities of the ashram there. I kept refusing her invitations but finally, three days before the departure date she informed me that a reservation had been made for me also! She strongly told me, “You must do what you’re told – otherwise we’ll have to tie your legs and arms and deposit you on the train.” When she was so strong, I thought I better do what she said! After all, we must listen to the suggestions of saints, isn’t it? I hadn’t wanted to come due to it being a cold place, and small crowded and noisy also (hill stations are popular!).

Anyway, we made the 30-hour journey, five of us including Jnaneswari, by train. The ashram is small here, only three or so acres, and only two main buildings, one Omkar Swami’s former house, and the other for guests. Jnaneswari, Susheela, me and a couple of others are in the house (one room is a prayer hall where satsangs are held).

It is very beautiful here. Hill after hill (we’re near the top of one) full of lush greenery, beautiful colored flowers and charming little houses with red tile roofs. Nice and charming sights to greet the eyes. Weather is crisp but not too chilly, except at night.

That is the good part. Now – the other side is that people in the houses put on radios and tape recorders, loud and all day long the sound of people washing clothes (bang – bang they beat the clothes) echoes throughout the valley, and people in the small ashram are all day long talking with each other. Real austerity for me!

In short, the scenery and weather is nice and it would be perfect if one were DEAF. Jnaneswari will stay over a month – maybe two or three! – and I hope to escape as soon as possible, though I think I’ll have to stay for at least a month. Due to Jnaneswari’s desire that I see all of Swami Omkar’s ashram branches, I came. Otherwise I would’ve liked to remain there in the main Andhra QUIET ashram. I’ll write more after some days.

Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu.

Love,

Divya