Rila Mountains: Thousands Gather for Universal White Brotherhood’s ‘Divine New Year’

Thousands of white-clad followers of Bulgaria’s Universal White Brotherhood gathered in the Rila Mountains on August 19 for a three-day spiritual meet celebrating the movement’s “divine new year.” The group combines elements of Christianity and Indian mysticism, with devotees performing prayers, meditation and the traditional “paneurhythmy” ritual. Developed by Bulgarian spiritual teacher Peter Deunov, the practice involves graceful movements in concentric circles accompanied by violins and choirs.