Jaunted

Next month, Julia will shoot the movie in an ashram (a Hindu retreat) in India, but it will not be the ashram where Gilbert stayed during her time in India. Instead, Eat, Pray, Love will shoot in another ashram on the Delhi-Jaipur National Highway 8, very close to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, so the cast and crew can stay at a hotel near the airport.

In her memoir, Gilbert never discloses in which ashram she stayed; it is only revealed that it was somewhere outside of Mumbai. It is speculated that she stayed at Gurudev Siddha Peeth at Ganeshpuri in Maharashtra and her guru was Gurumayi Chidvilasananda, a Siddha guru and follower of Swami Muktananda. The goal of the Siddha Yoga path which this ashram follows is: "Self-realization -- the unceasing experience of unity with God".

There are several ashrams that accept visitors for a week or more, usually at no charge although some donation is expected. The Rishikesh Yoga Ashram, just outside of New Delhi, promises "the unique experience of positive energy vibrations generated through years of accumulated spiritual energy of mantras, chants and the aura of great spiritual saints." The ashram provides all meals, a strict regimen of yoga and prayer daily, and even some river rafting if you so desire. Just don't expect a TV, fancy cocktails, or even a bed; bare bones accommodations are part of the spiritual journey, though they do promise, "western style bathrooms, many of which have hot, running water." Reservations can be made online at healthandyoga.com. Saw hi to Julia for us if you end up yoga-ing next to her.

Related Stories:
· No ashram for Julia Roberts [Rediff]
· Filming Locations [OLV]

[Photo: The Insider]