You can register for Mahashivratri volunteering by filling out this form: click here
Only those who have been initiated into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya can volunteer. All volunteers are encouraged to come for at least 7 days in advance, i.e. on 1st March
Definitely volunteering opportunities will be available to all those who come for Mahashivratri celebrations. An event like this would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of volunteers. But due to limited infrastructure at the Isha Yoga Center, it will not be possible for us to offer volunteer dormitory accommodation to those who come after 05th March.
All volunteers will be staying in temporary dormitory facilities.
That are being created especially for Mahashivratri. We request all volunteers to plan accordingly. Please refer to FAQ 6 for a detailed list of items to bring. The Mahashivratri event is about making the spiritual possibility of the night available to all, and so we request your understanding if some adjustments must be made in terms of personal comfort or convenience.
The ashram will not be providing any bedding items. All volunteers are requested to carry their own bedding items. This includes yoga mat / mattress (if you need one), bedsheet and pillow. From December to March, the weather is moderately cold during the night and warm during the day with temperatures reaching a minimum of 17°C (62.6°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Please bring warm clothing and a blanket for the night.
Note: Family members coming as a group should keep their belongings and toiletries separate, as they may be given separate accommodation.
Toiletries
Torchlight
Umbrella
Mosquito repellant cream
Bedding items
Sufficient clothing
Warm clothing (shawl, sweater, etc.)
Medication (prescribed and general medicines for headache, fever, pain relieving gel, antacids for digestive disorders, etc.)
Luggage lock and key(s)
Power banks
Yoga Mat
Sleeping bags (If possible)
Water bottle
Hat or cap to protect against the sunlight
The Isha Yoga Center is a safe place and security personnel are available 24/7. However, with an event of this scale, we recommend you take extra care with regard to your belongings. As you will be staying in shared accommodation, please do not bring any valuables, jewellery, or expensive electronic gadgets. To safeguard your belongings, please carry a lock and key, and keep your bags locked to be on the safe side.
Limited charging facilities will be made available in the stay areas. Please do not leave your mobile phones unattended while charging. It would be best if you can carry your own mobile power banks.
Volunteers will need to arrive latest by 05th Mar. As a lot of preparation is required to make the event happen, we recommend if you can reach as early as January.
Mahashivratri will be followed by a 7-day cultural festival, Mahashivratri Mela from 8th - 16th March. If you are volunteering for the same then you can stay back till 17th March 11:00 AM.
As volunteers, we play a crucial role in how people experience the Mahashivratri event. We will be giving volunteers different activities to take care of during the entire night. Once you have taken this decision of offering yourself as a volunteer for this Mahashivratri, we strongly recommend that you participate as a volunteer throughout the night. The experience of the program can be greatly enhanced simply by making oneself an offering. If you still wish to get a seating pass, you can do so after checking with your area coordinator.
Traditional Indian clothing is encouraged. Please adhere to a modest style of clothing while in the ashram. Both men and women must cover shoulders, upper arms, midriff and legs up to the ankles at all times. Proper western attire includes: ankle length pants for both men and women (no capris or shorts) and long shirts that cover upper arms. Please avoid tight clothes – both for your own comfort and as a sign of respect for the local culture.
During Yaksha and Mahashivratri, festive and ethnic Indian wear is encouraged.
Due to severe water shortage at the Yoga Center, washing of clothes might not be possible. Laundry facility will not be available. Please bring enough sets of clothes for the entire duration of your stay.
Yes
Only those who have been initiated into Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya will be allowed to stay in the volunteer accommodation. Other family and guests can register for Mahashivratri and join the nightlong celebration.
The Isha Yoga Center does not have the facilities or resources to take care of children and/or minors during the program. We request you to arrange guardianship at home for them while you are here.
Limited parking will be available. If you wish to offer your vehicle to support with venue preparations, you can do so as well.
A basic First Aid facility will be available; however, the nearest hospitals are about 1 hour away in normal traffic conditions. Please note, during Mahashivratri, it will take longer to get to the hospital due to increased traffic. The nearest medical shops are 8 kilometers away. Please keep your regular medication with you.
Grace of Yoga will be happening simultaneously with mahashivratri volunteering and due to the nature of volunteering activity. It is advised to not to register for Grace of Yoga, so that you can fully be with the Mahashivratri volunteering.