Dena Merriam Books

The narrative reimagines Sita as an incarnation of the Devi Narayani, on a mission to unite humanity with nature. Her journey with Sri Ram aims to establish a new civilization, fostering a deep love for the environment among people. Throughout her quest, Sita encounters various women rishis and sages, sharing their spiritual wisdom and accomplishments. This retelling emphasizes Sita's role as a powerful figure in promoting harmony between humanity and the natural world.

Innovative community involvement is showcased through Inner City Arts in downtown Los Angeles, where collaboration between the artistic and business sectors, along with city government, fosters a vibrant cultural environment. This initiative highlights the power of art in urban development and community engagement, creating a unique synergy that benefits both residents and local artists.

This book is told through the voice of a dancer in ancient Dwarka, a city on the western coast of India. It was on a pilgrimage to Dwarka a few years ago that I experienced her life. But even though this book recounts events in her life and follows her through three incarnations, this story is not truly about her but about Rukmini, the one who was working behind the scenes, as Rukmini and Shri Krishna set the framework for the era that was beginning to unfold. My narrative shows how Rukmini Mata enabled those around her to fulfil samskaras from past births--the karma one has accrued in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth--bringing closure to unfinished relationships and desires. I include many stories told by women to other women, recounted by those living in Dwarka in close association with Rukmini, in the hope of showing how an incarnation of the Universal Mother comes to guide an evolving humanity.