Shalina Chunilall of Stanmore in Phoenix participated in her first firewalking festival held at the Sathie Sanmurka Sungum this weekend.
Hundreds of devotees took to Grove-end Drive in Phoenix as part of the walk “of faith” to the Sathie Sanmurka Sungum for the annual Theemedi Draupathie Firewalking Ceremony on Saturday.
First time firewalking devotee, Shalina Chunilall of Stanmore said the experience of firewalking was a privilege and “something beyond words”. The popular hair-dresser became a member of the Sathie Sanmarka Sungun seven years ago. "I never knew how much it would change my life. Today, looking back, I feel nothing but gratitude and blessings. From helping build our beautiful temple to being part of its growth, every moment has been a journey of faith, love, and devotion,” said Chunilall.
Describing her experience, Chunilall said, “it is not just about walking across the fire; it is about complete faith, surrender, and believing that Mother Draupathi Ammen is walking beside you every step of the way. When your heart is filled with devotion, fear disappears, and you experience a peace that is impossible to describe. It is an experience I believe everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.”
