Actress Srinidhi Shetty reveals how a single visit to Linga Bhairavi led to an unexpected longing: to bring Devi into her home and life.
From the first moment I saw Linga Bhairavi, something began happening inside me. Happiness, joy, sadness, a strong desire to seek something that I don’t know.
Initially, when I heard about the Yantra Ceremony where one can take Devi home, it felt like such a big step. I wasn’t sure if I was devoted enough and if Devi would like to come and be with me. But eventually, things fell into place, and I got to participate in the Yantra Ceremony.
Now I have my Yantra; I have my Devi. These three days of the Yantra Ceremony have been, for lack of better words, divinely magical. I’m very, very grateful that I could be part of this. Among all the things Sadhguru is doing, the Yantra Ceremony is one more offering he has made possible for all of us.
When I first visited Isha Yoga Center and went to Linga Bhairavi’s abode, the moment I looked into her eyes, I just kept crying. I’m very emotional and expressive in this sense. Since I lost my mother, I think I’ve been searching for a motherly figure in every woman I come across, every deity and goddess. So maybe when I saw Devi, all the pent-up emotions came to the surface.
Every time I’m at Devi’s abode, see her picture, or even just remember her, something happens within me. And I know that whenever I think of Devi or I’m in her presence, I’m getting better in a way I can’t quite describe.
Initially, when I heard about the Yantra Ceremony and the possibility of bringing Devi home, I was afraid I wasn’t prepared or devoted enough. There were many aspects to consider, like the space I live in, so I felt this was a big step that I wasn’t ready for yet. But I had a strong urge to bring Devi home and be in her presence.
Some time later, when a friend told me about an upcoming Yantra Ceremony, I was still unsure. But somewhere, unconsciously, I was actually preparing for her. I wanted to move to a new house, have a separate room for Devi, and a separate room for sadhana. Even though I didn’t say out loud that I wanted to bring her home, I was making all these preparations.
Once I had moved to a place with an extra room just for her, I thought, “Let’s enroll for the Yantra Ceremony.” I didn’t know what to expect. Without her grace, even a leaf cannot turn, so I think it was all her grace. People say if Devi wants to come to your home, you must be ready for it. I’m just happy and grateful if she thinks I’m ready for it and is coming home.
It all happened in a natural flow, almost without my realizing it. We enrolled, and in spite of my busy schedule, things fell into place by themselves.
Being there at the Yantra Ceremony in Devi’s presence with Sadhguru personally conducting the process was pure joy. Devi’s grace is on everyone, of course, and I was simply overjoyed about going through this process, knowing that she would be mine, and bringing her home.
After the initiation, we were supposed to leave for dinner, but I kept looking at the Yantra, not wanting to leave. I just wanted to be with her. There is such a strong connection or bond – it feels like the Yantra is your own now, and you want to take it with you.
I’m still a little anxious about taking care of her with utmost sincerity, especially considering times when I’m away for work, but I think it will all fall into place.
Irrespective of your life situation, having your own temple in your personal space will make a world of difference. Once Devi is there, she will draw you to herself, one way or the other.
Years ago, my mind used to float around wanting this or that. But after meeting Sadhguru and being at the Isha Yoga Center, I have not asked for anything. You know Sadhguru says that whatever we might ask for or want is only based on what we know. Maybe there is something bigger than that. So why ask or settle for less.
I only ask Devi and all the gods and deities I worship to give me a fulfilled life, in whatever form it takes, and the strength to go through whatever you give me. Each person can take whatever approach helps them move forward, according to their own individuality and choices, but I have stopped asking for specific things like career and health. I just ask for everyone to live a joyful and fulfilled life.
When I was there for the Yantra Ceremony, on Purnima, the Devi temple was open until 12:30 at night. I went there around 11:15 and just stood outside since many people were already seated inside. The moment I saw her, there was so much energy and emotion. I stood there for 15 minutes, looking at her, sobbing, tears flowing. Then I went inside and sat there for another ten minutes or so. I don’t know if it’s the feminine energy, but something is happening, and I’m loving it.
Sadhguru says that once you have a temple of your own at home, you should share the grace and blessings with others. So whenever possible, I’m planning to invite people over to bask in Devi’s grace.
My heart is full of gratitude to Sadhguru for making so many things possible for us. My life has transformed completely from how it was a few years ago. I’m so happy about the way it is. Whether people notice it or like it, I am joyful, and I think that’s all that matters. There’s still a long way to go. It’s still in progress, but thanks to Sadhguru. And now Devi is also there.
I really hope, wish, and pray that everyone will get the opportunity to bring Devi home. Let everyone experience Devi’s grace and see their deepest desires fulfilled. Namaskar.
—Srinidhi Shetty
