Guruvandana by Hindu Sanghatna a great success

A group of participants at the Guruvandana Program organized by Hindu Sanghatana at Palatine Library

CHICAGO: Hindu Education Foundation, Chicago Chapter with the help and participation from Abhimanyu Balagokulam Shakha, from North West suburb of Chicago, conducted Guruvandana Program (Teachers Appreciation Day) last week at Palatine Public Library

Mayor of Hoffman Estates, William McLeod inaugurated the event by lighting a lamp. In a brief speech he said that "India and Hinduism have demonstrated strong ethical environments and shared their culture and tradition with us that have enriched our diverse ethnic society. We do have many common things to share especially many cultural and moral principles. Thanks to Hindu Education Foundation for bringing these excellent attributes and share with us."

Teachers from many schools from Northwest Suburb of Chicago attended the program. Well over 100 participants attended the function.

The program began with an Exhibition on 5000 years of Hindu contribution to world culture and civilization. Balagokulam kids gave a guided tour of the exhibition to The Mayor, Teachers and attendees, explaining each exhibit and answered their questions.

Kids' parents were also present to provide any clarifications.
In the public function held at the main hall of the library, Prakash Saunshi coordinator for Guruvandana program explained the goals of Hindu Education Foundation and the importance of Guruvandana program to the community, especially those growing up in the USA.

HEF had launched Guru Vandana event nationwide to bring students, teachers and parent together. And asked the youth to conduct the entire function by themselves!  Priyanka then talked about Hindu concept of Guru Trinity, 'Mother, Father and Teacher' who play important role in child life.

Kids from age 6 to 14 years recited Sanskrit verses in praise of Lord Ganesha and Saraswati. Neel Saunshi and Prem Shah provided an explanation and significance of these verses. Students then presented mementos to the teachers in appreciation of their role of educating them to fulfill their roles in the society. This ancient method is called "Dakshina" in Sanskrit meaning a grateful offering.

After an interesting performance of Kathak dance by Radhika and presentation of popular Jai Ho song from the Slumdog Millionaire by Priyanka, Jahnavi, Abby, Neel, Prem and Mithul and was applauded by the audience.

Manish Joshi proposed vote of thanks. Jalaram Mandir president Chiraybhai Parikh, Nita Virani of Art of Living and C V Desai of Ekal Vidya (One teacher one school) movement represented various Indian organizations.

Teachers commented that they learnt more about Hindu culture and Hindu contribution to world culture and civilization by visiting the Exhibition of Hindu culture.