As a Divinya Community member, there are several components which I enjoy about the festival. Here is a summary of what I believe makes the event unique:
A collective experience
What stands out the most to me is that each and every person present during the festival is actively contributing to make the event possible.
I noticed how year after year, everyone feels more and more at home. I see participants actively engaged, helping wherever they can, whether it is by serving during the meals, cutting vegetables in the kitchen, joyfully doing the dishes, or just responding to the need of the moment. There is a longing to be part and to create Yoga Mela collectively.
I still remember when the grand piano had to be transported to the concert hall at the beginning of the festival 2 years ago. Dozens of people, both participants and community members, were carrying it all together with big smiles on their faces, making it a very effortless action. It was clear that everyone wanted the piano to reach its destination, no matter the weight or the size of the instrument. In that moment it was so visible that yes, when a group of people has the same wish, that wish can be manifested.
A vision
At Yoga Mela, we aim to create a new reference of experience. We all dream for a world where humans can live in peace and harmony among each other and with nature. A world, where we can be equal, where we can be free, where we can take care and share, a world of love, beauty and sacredness. I see that the festival brings changes in people. I see how everyone is committed to exploring the peace, and I see how this peace is contagious and expansive.
Every morning, we gather for the “communion” with everyone. During those moments, there is also space to share one’s experience. I have only always heard very positive, uplifting and joyful sharing, many expressing their gratitude to life. Those moments always gave me such motivation and I can see how each and every positive comment influences the overall experience, creating a vortex.
The current world situation shows us how important it is to be in peace, as an individual first, but especially as a collective. When a group of people share the same experience, that experience becomes a reality. During the festival, we have the greatest chance to manifest this collective peace. Through our thoughts, words and actions, we can give peace to each other. As a large group of thousands of people, we have the power to create a shift. Welcome to take part.
Satsangs with Guruji Sri Vast
During the festival, we have the opportunity to gather daily for Satsang with Guruji Sri Vast, in the Peace Temple.
Satsangs give the chance to ask important questions which one has been pondering upon in life. Guruji’s answers speak directly to our hearts, giving insights and inspiration for each and everyone. The Teachings invite us to inquire on ourselves, on our repeated patterns and emotions, so that we may transform them and heal. In this process, the ego can be shaken and confrontations may naturally arise, this allows one to truly transform.
Guruji gives practical advice of what one can do here and at home to shift one’s life for the best.
I have really seen changes in people from the beginning of the festival until the end. Faces becoming softer, smiles wider, inspired expressions, thirsty to learn more, and I have heard people sharing that they gained confidence on how to approach their life and future.
Guruji’s humbleness, humor and joy fill the space, His Presence is contagious and often brings laughter as well.
I am often amazed at the ability Guruji has to speak about what could be perceived as “difficult” or “negative” topics in such an uplifting way, inviting us to transcend everything into positive. His approach is for me the greatest learning. The focus is always on peace.
The Teachings invite us to rediscover ourselves beyond our roles and identities, and to return to our natural state of being.
Equal approach
At Yoga Mela, everyone is approached in the same manner. All artists, all participants, all community members and volunteers are equally taking part in creating the festival.
We are all responsible to provide a very beautiful and fine experience to each other. I find this aspect very unique.
As a community member living in Divinya, I feel naturally responsible to do my best so that the festival can smoothly take place and that my area of engagement is taken cared of in all its details. And I see how this commitment is applicable to everyone present.
Year after year, we can witness how this spirit grows among participants. Those who return, easily feel home and participate from the moment they reach the ground. They are also not shy to answer questions from newly arrived festival participants, introducing them into the practical matters, showing them around, and why not giving a hand.
This participation starts to spread as the festival begins. And after a few warming up days, many times after some touching Satsangs and joyful Yoga Mela communions, it is obviously noticeable that more and more people start to feel home and respond. By the end of the week, the majority of participants will share the unique joy of having experienced a week in true peace, happiness and togetherness among thousands of people.
This is when it comes for me as a community member so clear, Peace on Earth can start from within, and let us do one more Yoga Mela next year.
FAQ:
What makes Yoga Mela unique?
It is a participatory festival. Rather than being a passive attendee, you are invited to take part in the life of the event. This shared involvement creates a rare sense of togetherness and depth.
Why is participation part of the experience?
Yoga Mela is based on the understanding that a harmonious environment is created collectively. Simple acts of contribution naturally bring connection, presence, and meaning.
What is the vision behind the festival?
To create a lived experience of peace, equality, and harmony—where these are not ideas, but something we explore and embody together.
Who organizes Yoga Mela?
The festival is created by the Divinya community. It grows out of a lived, year-round commitment to conscious living. The community holds the space, the vision, and the continuity. During the festival, participants are invited to step into this environment and experience this way of living together.
What are Satsangs and why are they part of the program?
Satsangs are gatherings where participants can ask questions about life, challenges, and inner growth. They offer guidance and insight that support self-inquiry and transformation. Rather than providing fixed answers, they invite a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s patterns, helping to bring clarity and meaning in life.
What can I take with me from the experience?
Often a sense of clarity, connection, and inspiration—something simple yet profound that continues beyond the festival.
