International Studies at the University of New Mexico is offering its first “Journey to the Sacred Traditions of India,” a spring semester 2008 course. The fully accredited tour is scheduled for March 15 – 30, during spring break; UNM students who participate would miss one week of regular classes. The trip is open to the public.
The purpose of the trip is to experience spirituality as it is practiced in northern India. Emphasis will be on understanding the major religious and sacred traditions, their practices, beliefs, history and their relationship to modern Indian society.
Tour members will observe and participate in rituals and ceremonies of the various traditions in their historical plDavid Brookshire of worship.
Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh and Yogic traditions originated in India; Islam, Baha’i and Christianity are imported. All are uniquely influenced by Indian culture and people. Students will meditate with the Buddhists, do Puja with the Hindus, do Seva with the Sikhs, pray with the Christians, visit Muslim mosques and do yoga with the yogis.
Kirpal S. Khalsa, sociology and yoga professor at UNM-Taos has organized the trip and course. Khalsa said, “Spirituality is best understood through practice and experience.”
Khalsa lived in India for 11 years during which time he conducted numerous trips throughout the subcontinent. The trip will cost approximately $3,500: includes airfare from Albuquerque, lodging, local travel, special classes and meals.
If interested in learning more about the trip, an informational meeting with Khalsa, including yoga, a Power Point presentation and chai, spiced Indian tea, is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1, noon, at the Med 2 building in Taos: Medical Arts Plaza, 1398 Weimer Road, across from Holy Cross Hospital.
For more information about the trip visit: India Trip or contact Khalsa at kirpals@kiit.com.
Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at November 15, 2007 01:42 PM