Vikram Samvat 2072
MANDIR VANI mandirvani www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 sustaining dharma through mandirs ISSUE X (2015) 10th Annual Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference
HMEC-2015
Oct. 2-4, 2015 Port of Spain, Trinidad
PAGE 1 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 Hosttemples Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America Inc. (World Hindu Council of America) Thanks the Host Organizations and Mandirs For Their Hospitality In Hosting Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference 2015 Special Host Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, Trinidad & Tobago Bharat Sevashram Sangh and The Trinidad Sevashram Sangha
Grand Host Shiva Mandir –Sobo Village, Trinidad Amarjyoth Sabha Incorporated, Trinidad Gayatri Chetna Center, Piscataway Township, NJ Arsh Vidhya Gurukulam, Saylorsburg, PA Ganesh Mandir of Nashville, TN Vraj Temple, Schuylkill Haven, PA
Co-Host Hindu Prachaar Kendra, Enterprise, Trinidad & Tobago Arya Pratinidh Sabha of Trinidad Trinidad & Tobago Federation of Hindu Organisations Hindu temple of Central Indiana, Indianapolis, IN Durga Temple of Virginia, Fairfax Station, VA Gayatri Gyan Mandir, Itasca, IL Om Temple, North Billerica, MA Brahma Vidya Peetham International Hindu Temple of Quebec, Canada Hindu Temple of the Woodlands, TX Sanatan Dharma Temple, Los Angeles, CA Regional HMEC of Southern California Sri Venkateswara Temple, Pittsburgh, PA Hindu Jain Temple, Pittsburgh, PA Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Trinidad & Tobago Sangeet Milan Cultural Organisation Nithyananda Meditation Academy, Toronto , Canada Nithyananda University, Montclair, CA Shiv Mandir of Atlanta
PAGE 2 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 MANDIR VANI
HMEC Souvenir Issue Number X (2015) Vikram Samvat 2072
HINDU MANDIR EXECUTIVES’ CONFERENCE October 2 - 4, 2015 Radisson Hotel, Port of Spain, Trinidad
Editorial Board
Dr. Surendra Nath Pandey, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Shardanand Dr. Shyam Narayan Shukla Dr. Bhartendu Srivastava Shri Amit Mehta, Managing Editor
ध셍륋 रक्षति र啍क्षिः HMEC Serving Hindu Mandirs and Institutions of North America and the Caribbeans http://myhmec.com
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council) of America, Inc. E-mail: [email protected] Ph: 732-744-0851 Web: http://www.vhp-america.org
Note: In Mandir Vani and HMEC activities and discussions, we use the term Mandir, Hindu or Hinduism in very broad sense that includes all religions, places and spiritual organizations of the philosophies that have their roots in Bharat (India).
Disclaimer: Views expressed in Mandir Vani are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the organizers of HMEC. They are meant to contribute to the understanding and enhancement of Sanatan Dharma, and generate awareness about the needs of the Hindu society as viewed by the authors.
PAGE 3 MANDIR VANI HMEC------www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 10th Anniversery (Trinidad) 2-4 Oct. 2015
ContentsTHE CARIBBEAN JHANDI WHO IS HINDU?
20 52 REVIVE TEMPLES ROLE OF DEVALAYA YOUTH IN MANDIR
40 30 39 EDITORS NOTES M.G. Prasad WHO IS HINDU? 05 Surendra Nath Pandey INDOVATION 52 Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Dr. Arvind Singh HMEC PROGRAM 34 STRENGTHENING RELIGIOUS FREEDOM HINDU FAMILY 06 54Kamlesh Kapur SWAMI DAYANAND IN USA - A Hindu Perspective 36Dhananjaya Kumar COLLECTION OF POEMS SARASWATI - A PATRIOT Dr. Mittur Ramprasad 16 SAINT HOW TO INVOLVE 56 YOUTH IN TEMPLES ARRIVAL OF HINDUS 39 Hari Bindal. BHARAT SEVASHRAM IN CARIBBEAN SANGH AND THE 18 Dr. Kumar Mahabir REVIVING THE HINDU 58TRINIDAD SEVASHRAM TEMPLE ECOSYSTEM THE CARIBBEAN SANGH 40 Sandeep Balakrishna JHANDI Swami Parmeshananda 20 HINDU CULTURE Pta. Indrani Rampersad REPORT - HMPC-2015 STRONG HINDU AND TEMPLES Utsava Chakrabarti 44 Dr. Vimal Patel FAMILIES 60 22 Stephen Knapp INSTANT KARMA REPORT - HINDU CONVERSION 48 REVISITED 62 CHAPLAINCY PROGRAM Ramnarine Shahdeo Fred Stella 26 HMEC - MISSION AND MANDIR - providing GOALS PAGE MULTI-FACETED 50 leadership, networking and 64 304 ROLE OF DEVALAYA serving as resource center MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Surendra Nath Pandey, Ph.D. Editor-in-Chief, Mandir Vani Ph: 229-883-1687 Email: [email protected]
from the editor’s desk
he Tenth annual Hindu Mandir Executives in India, advice on strengthening temples, and Conference is making history by holding its temple management covering administrative, social, Tannual convention for the first time outside psychological and technical aspects with special focus the American mainland, in Trinidad & Tobago. The on youth engagement. Caribbean has the distinction of receiving the first group of Indians in the Western hemisphere in early It is very encouraging to notice the ever increasing nineteenth century. From there, many migrated to involvement of our youth in various facets of Canada and later to the US. Hindus arriving mostly in Hinduism –the religious traditions, learning of the Guyana and Trinidad and later in Jamaica and Surinam scriptures, taking active role in Hindu organizations, started establishing themselves by building temples and networking with other Hindu youth through and forming organizations to preserve and serve the social media. The future of Hinduism in this part of the spiritual, educational and social needs of Hindus in world is in the hands of our youth, and the evidence the Christian-dominant society that was not quite supports that the younger generation will help in hospitable to the Hindus. sustaining Dharma with their active involvement in Mandirs and various Hindu organizations. In this issue of Mandir Vani, we have included articles on a variety of topics related to the arrivals of Hindus/ We hope you will find Mandir Vani a valuable source Indians in the Caribbean tracing their origin, and of information, share with your friends, and give it a their cultural and religious practices in their new prominent place in your library. homeland. It is interesting to learn that some of our Hindu symbols have made their major presence in With best regards, the Caribbean, such as the jhandis that adorn the immigrant Hindu houses and places of worship. We Surendra Nath Pandey have several articles addressing various aspects of the conference theme, Strengthening the Hindu Family. Also, included are articles on history of temples
PAGE 5 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com10th HINDU Issue 10 - OctoberMANDIR 2015 EXECUTIVES’ CONFERENCE Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago October 2-4, 2015
04:00 PM Registration Meal 06:00 PM Dinner Session 1 07:30 PM - 09:40 PM Inaugural Session Sharma Tadepalli Festival Ballroom 1.1 Bhavgeet - Mansa Satatam Jaya 1.2a Invocation Through Vedic Mantras Local Priests 1.2b Collective Gayatri Mantra Chant Hemant Parekh, All 1.3 Deep Prajjwalan All Co-Host Temples 1.4 In Memory of Swami Dayananda Saraswati Ji Amit Mehta 1.5 Welcome Remarks Sat Maharaj 1.6 Are Temples Still a Source of Solutions? Vallabha Tantry Tracking Millennials: Knowing What Holds Them & What 1.7 Fred Stella Doesn’t 1.8 Vyasthi, Samasthi, Shristi, Paramesthi Vindhya Persaud The Science behind Successful Marriages: The Key to a 1.9 Pandit Roopnath Sharma Functional Family 1.10 Inaugural Address: Strengthening the Hindu Family Swami Pratyagbodhananda 1.11 Guided Panel Discussion: Role Models from Itihasas and Puranas Spiritual Gurus 1.12 Program Agenda Overview Ami Patel 1.13 Ashirvachan Amar Seerpersad 1.14 Instructions Deoroop Teemal SATURDAY PRE-LUNCH PROGRAM (October 3, 2015) Sadhana 6:00 AM Yoga, Meditation, Devotional Singing Dhyan - Meditation Kelvin Rampersad Yoga Priya Rampersad Bhajans - Devotional Singing Gyan Ramlogan Meal 7:00 AM Breakfast Session 2 8:00 AM - 9:05 AM Caribbean Hindu Experiences and Journey Dr. Prakash Persad Calypso 2.1 Past Present and Future - The Journey Ram Persad Parasram Sustaining Dharma in the Caribbeans: Creativity and Core 2.2 Ravi G Maharaj Principles 2.3 Caribbean & North American Experiences and Relationship Swami Aksharananda 2.4 A Retrospective: What Would We Do Differently Ravi Deo Q&A Session 3 9:05 AM - 10:10 AM Family Roles Saumitra Gokhale Calypso 3.1 Hindu Parenting: It takes a Dharma to Raise a Child Swamini Svatmavidyananda 3.2 Practicing Sanatana Dharma Brahmachari Suryanarayan 3.3 The Role of Grandparents, Family Guru, Pandit Ma Prematma Swami Timeless and Timely Wisdom: the Scriptures’ Guidance for 3.4 Brahmacharini Akalka Barath Modernity and the Family
PAGE Q&A Break6 10:10 AM - 10:30 AM Relaxation External Pressures: Contemporary Challenges to Family Life inMANDIR VANI Session 4 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Kumar Dave the Diaspora www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 Calypso Contemporary Challenges to Family Life in the Diaspora; Break 4.1 ups and Remarriages; Abstinence and Monogamy: the Key to Devyani Desai Reproductive Health;Protocols of Conduct and Behavior; 4.2 Identity Crisis and Conversion Pandita Indrani Rampersad Queerying Hinduism : The ‘Alternative’ Hindu Discourse on 4.3 Aneela Bhagwat ‘Alternative’ Lifestyles Why Pandits are Losing Followers: Comparison of discourses 4.4 Dr. Kumar Mahabir between pundits & pastors in TT Q&A Session 5 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM HMEC Update Vipul Patel Calypso 5.1 Hindu Mandir Priest Conference (HMPC) Sant Gupta Rethink Religion, Repeal Hindu Endowment Act in State of 5.2 Prasad Yalamanchi Andhra pradesh 5.3 Coalition of Hindu Youth (CHY) Divya Samir 5.4 Regional HMEC Dhaval Joshipura 5.5 HMEC Publications Jaya and Vallabha 5.6 Seva Diwas - Successes of Blood Drive through Temples Rahul Jindal 5.7 Vanaprasthi Network Vision - HAVAN Hansa Dave Special Session 12:30 PM - 12:40 PM Demonstration of Third Eye Awakening Nityananda University San Fernando 12:40 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch SATURDAY POST-LUNCH PROGRAM (October 3, 2015) Parallel Tracks - Break Out Sessions (A, B, C, D) Session 6A 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Sustaining the Family Structure Bhartendu Srivastava Calypso 6A.1 From East Indians to Indo Trinidadian: The Hindu Indian Identity Shoba Ramsumair 6A.2 The Bhagavat Gita as the Foundation for Family Life Aneal Maharaj 6A.3 Kutumb Prabodhan: The Nuclear Family and Its Impact Arun Kankani Applied Creativity in Hindu Dharma: Linchpin of the Hindu 6A.4 Gita Vahini Family Q&A Session 6B 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Role of Hindu Institutions in Strengthening the Hindu Family Umesh Shukla Chaconia 6B.1 Temples as Spiritual and Cultural Centers: Structuring Time Madhu Bhargava Avoid Temple Cancer: Family Values Ensures the Sustainability 6B.2 Nirmala Maharaj of Temples 6B.3 Community Outreach as a Family Through Seva Hiranya Gowda 6B.4 Engaging the Young Parents - Communication Swami Brahmadeo Q&A Session 6C 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Dharmic Education Nirmala Maharaj Bougainvilla Hindu Samskaras: Rites and Customs of a Hindu Family in 6C.1 Ma Praba Swami Modern Times 6C.2 Secular and Sacred Education Pandit Adesh Maharaj 6C.3 Nurturing Children in the Hindu Way Marcus Kissoon 6C.4 Hindu Tradition of Story-telling Susheelabai Srinivasa PAGE Q&A 7 Session 6D 1:30 PM MANDIR- 2:30 PM VANIYouth - Grihastha Ashram Sarika Persaud www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
6D.1 Ram Lila and Family Values Alvin Saltan Pandit Surendranauth Persaud 6D.2 The Centrality of the Grihastha Ashram Tiwari 6D.3 Planning for Marriage Pundit Roopnarine Robbie 6D.4 The Progressive Awakening of the Latent Hindu Faith in Youth Seenath Q&A Session 7A 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Institution of Marriage: the Foundation of a Hindu Family Sudershan Pasupuleti Calypso Significance of Grihastha Ashram and the Interconnection with 7A.1 Indira Kumar Other Ashrams 7A.2 Hinduism: The Jamaican Experience Ravi Rambarran 7A.3 Domestic Violence in Indian Families in America Manu Bhatt, Amar Pandey 7A.4 Working Together Towards Enlightenment Dr. Prakash Persad Q&A Session 7B 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Role of Priests in Strengthening the Hindu Family Virendra Gupta Chaconia 7B.1 Spiritual Guide for the Family and The Missing Acharya Leekram Rajroop 7B.2 Opportunities to Educate and Grow (Certification, Orientation) Pandit Hardesh Tewari Models of Engagement: Things we can do Globally and 7B.3 Indira Narine Collectively - Epic Hanuman Chanting 7B.4 Engaging the Youth in the Beauty of Hindu Rituals Subhash Khanna Q&A Session 7C 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Leveraging Knowledge through Technology Dhaval Joshipura Bougainvilla 7C.1 Bring Together the Global Hindu Family Savita Gaur
7C.2 Hinduism and Use of Mass Communication Lokesh Maharaj
7C.3 Mobile Apps to Maintain our Vedic Family and Traditions Bob Markowitz, Sant Gupta Digital Dharma: Bringing Traditional Knowledge to Coming 7C.4 Amit Mehta Generations Q&A Session 7D 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Youth - External Pressures Adi Prashant Seepersad
Dharma & Mental Health: Developing Faith-based 7D.1 Sarika Persaud psychoeducation for Hindu adolescents 7D.2 Hindu Marriages for the 21st century – Some Reform is Needed Niraj Mohanka 7D.3 South Asian Syndrome Sohini Sircar 7D.4 Hindu Students' Groups as Challenge and Sustenance Allegra Lovejoy Q&A Meal 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM Afternoon Tea and Snacks
PAGE 8 Parallel Workshops - (A, B, C, D) MANDIR VANI Session 8A 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Parenting www.myhmec.com Surendra Issue 10 - OctoberPandey 2015 Calypso 8A.1 Dynamic Hindu Parenting - Grooming a Hindu Child Pt Mukram Sirjoo 8A.2 The Role of the Grandparents Kamal Persaud 8A.3 Practical Solutions from Santana dharma: Parents as Role Neena Mohanka Conversion (Overt and Covert) a Global Threat to the Hindu 8A.4 Ramnarine Sahadeo Family 8A.5 Role of Temple in Hindu Family Pandit Sunesh Tota Maharaj Discussion and Actions Session 8B 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Servicing Hindu Devotees Needs Ramesh Gosyne Chaconia 8B.1 Connecting with the Ancestors through Hindu Rites and Rituals Pandit Sunil Seetahal-Maraj 8B.2 Language Classes: Speaking Begins at Home Dr Visham Bhimull Case Study: How Did we Bring About Vraj - Place for Pilgrimage 8B.3 Pramod Amin & Indian Cultural Campus 8B.4 How to Bridge Religious Generation Gap Shree Krishnamaniji Maharaj 8B.5 Discovering Hindu Sanctuaries in South America Kalki Prabhu Discussion and Actions Session 8C 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Support Structures to Strengthen Hindu Families Sant Gupta Bougainvilla How Sangeet Milan has Succeeded in Promoting and Uplifting 8C.1 Rukminee Beepath Dharma 8C.2 Counseling Families and Youth Pundit Karran Nancoo
8C.3 Evolving - Challenges - Divorce Rickey Bharat
8C.4 Pre Marital Counseling Gyan 8C.5 Collective Yagna/Havan - Connecting Families and Communities Professor Lakshmishwar Jha Discussion and Actions Session 8D 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Youth - Identity and Self Evolution Sohini Sirchar 8D.1 What does it mean to be a Hindu? Amrish Seepersad Difficulties Living as Hindus: Identity Crisis and Conversion 8D.2 Shruti Narine Issues 8D.3 Evolution: An Individual journey with today’s influences Preya Ramdeen 8D.4 Why do people keep passive distance? 8D.5 How the mandirs meets the needs of the youths Jenna Kistama Discussion and Actions 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM Freetime - Networking
PAGE 9 MANDIR VANI SATURDAY EVENING (October 4, 2015) Session 9 www.myhmec.com 6:30 PM - 10:00 Issue PM 10Gala - October Dinner 2015 & Cultural Evening Program - Diwali Nagar 06:30 PM Transport & Registration Meal 07:00 PM Dinner & Light Entertainment Divali Nagar 08:00 PM Cultural Program & Invited Speakers Kamal Budree & Rishi Ramcharan gala.1 Prayer Pt. Amar Seepersad gala.2 Lamp Lighting Dr. Deokinanan Sharma gala.3 Welcome Dr. Kumar Mahabir gala.4 Invocation Dance Kala Kendra gala.5 HMEC Overview Sharma Tadepalli gala.6 Local Classical Songs Vejai Ramkissoon gala.7 Traditional Phagwah Songs Satya Dhristi Temple gala.8 Sanatan Dharma Scholarship Sanjay Mehta gala 9 Folk Dance Kala Kendra gala.10 Traditional Folk Songs Nirmala Sasenarine gala.11 Vote of Thanks Deoroop Teemal 09:45 PM End
Temple Construction in Progress 890 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Sugar Hill, GA
Main temple/prayer hall will be on second floor. It will have covered area of approx. 9500 sq ft, out which of about 4500 sq ft will be the sitting area for devotees.
Individual temples devoted to Shiv-Parvati, Ram, Krishna, Vishnu and Durga will be Shiv Mandir will be located along the back located on the left hand wall. side as one enters the premises from main entrance on Peachtree Indl Blvd. First floor will have Parking for 90+ vehicles covered area of approx. will be created on the 14150 sq ft. It will right hand side. house meditation hall , a 4500 sq ft auditorium, audio/video room, class Following other features will be rooms and bedrooms added over various phases: for visiting guests. • Development of 3.5+ acres of Dhyan Stambh will be land constructed at the • Additional 150+ parking spaces location of future • Bridge connecting backlands meditation hall. • 28000 Sq Ft Bldg • Additional Classrooms Hanuman will preside Ganesha will preside • Library here. here. • Auditorium A kitchen with seating • Additional Facilities for Youth for 50 -100 people and a • Priest Quarters landscaped lawn of about 4000 sq ft will For more information and donations come up on the right side of first floor. PleaPAGEse visit www.shivmandiratlanta.org
10 SUNDAY MORNING PROGRAM (October 4, 2015) MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 Sadhana 06:00 PM Yoga, Meditation, Devotional Singing Dhyan - Meditation Priya Rampersadmani Maraj Yoga Kelvin Rampersad Bhajans - Devotional Singing Shiromani Maraj Meal 7:00 AM Breakfast Session 10 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Nones, Millennials and Gen X Fred Stella Calypso 10.1 The New Hindu Ananda 10.2 Losing (Retaining) an Inheritance Sri Tejomaya Swami 10.3 Non-Indian Hindu Phenomenon Samir Asthana INNDOVATION - A Framework for Fostering Creativity in the 10.4 Arvind Singh Hindu Community Q&A Session 11 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Hindu Pride Ami Patel Calypso 11.1 Who is a Hindu: Unfolding the Hindu Identity Swami Nikhilanand 11.2 Strengthening the Hindu Identity for Every Generation Swami Prakashananda 11.3 Authentic Information: Building Respect Robert Arnett, Smita Turakhia 11.4 Belonging to a Hindu Family Atri Seepersad Q&A Relaxation 10:00 AM - 10:15 AM Break Session 12 10:15 AM -11:15 PM Parallel Track Summary and Solutions Integration Amit Mehta Calypso 12.1 Summary of Session 8A Youth 12.2 Summary of Session 8B Youth 12.3 Summary of Session 8C Youth 12.4 Summary of Session 8D Youth Q&A Session 13 11:15 AM - 12:00 PM HMEC 2015 Closure Session Keshavlal Patel Calypso 13.1 Action Items and Resolutions Sanjay Mehta 13.2 Resolution from Atlanta Dinesh Purohit 13.3 Conviction Through Spiritual Grounding and Knowledge Swami Parmeshananda 13.4 Parishad Prayer All 13.5 Announcements & Thanks Deoroop Teemal Meal 12:00 PM Lunch End of HMEC 2015 12:30 PM Guided Tour
PAGE 11 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, Inc. (World Hindu Council of America)
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Namaste HMEC Delegates
It is a privilege to welcome you to the 10th Hindu Mandir executives’ Conference (HMEC). The community response to HMEC conferences has been tremendous. From the first conference in Atlanta in 2006, it has grown to be the largest annual conference for Hindu Institutions and Temples in North America. This ten-year long journey is the result of persistence and commitment of the HMEC guiding team and the team of volunteers from host Mandirs across North America and the Caribbean. Only through their effort, Hindu priests, scholars, sadhus, professors, youth and other intellectuals actively participate in the HMEC conferences to discuss and provide guidance and interpretation of the Hindu philosophical thought.
Mandirs in Americas and other countries outside India must be the centers of teaching and learning of Hindu philosophy, traditions, culture and art. The Mandir leaders who seek to transform the role of mandirs into such broader institutions face numerous challenges. The HMEC continues to provide a platform for the mandir executives to share their knowledge and best practices so as to build on each other’s experiences in order to grow as a community. The conferees explore avenues of expanding institutional roles in meeting the ever changing needs of Hindus and to ensure the sustainability of Dharma by enhancing the role of Hindu youth.
Our conference theme this year is “Strengthening the Hindu Family.” The Hindu Family is the building block on which Dharma and community rest, so a strong family makes for sustainable dharma and community both locally and globally. Strong families ensure a well-organized, Dharmic, productive and harmonious society. As Hindu Family identity and sustenance of dharma are challenged by the dilution of traditions, success will depend on the extent to which successive generations in the diaspora remain anchored in our timeless traditions while embracing the changing times. Determining the direction of change, adaptation and sustenance of dharma requires collective efforts by our major stakeholders like mandirs, teachers, sants and sanyasis, scholars, activists, practicing and non-practicing Hindus. HMEC 2015 provides the platform for these deliberations, strategic planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. The delegates at HMEC 2015 will deliberate on the sustenance of Hindu Dharma in America and the Caribbean, exploring ways for keeping the mandir relevant to the ever-changing needs of our community.
The Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference (HMEC) journey has resulted in a strong network of Mandirs in North America. It has been successful in engaging the Hindu youth organizations such as Coalition of Hindu Youth (CHY) in the conferences and participate in the mandir management. Going forward, there are immense possibilities to build incredible programs on the foundation of this network. This year the Caribbean mandirs have shouldered the responsibility of hosting the 10th HMEC. This shows a sign of great unity with an eagerness to serve the community in a noble way. We sincerely thank all of them for being wonderful hosts and demonstrating a way to unite for sustenance of Hindu Dharma.
Abhaya Asthana
PAGE 12 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference
CONVENERS’ MESSAGE Respected HMEC delegates,
Welcome to the 10th HMEC that is being held for the first time in the Caribbean. We are pleased to inform you that HMEC 2015 has been sponsored by six Grand-hosts and nine Co-hosts at the time of printing. This entire HMEC has been planned and organized by volunteers from host temples and VHPA and it has taken nearly 9 months of dedicated efforts. The theme of this year’s HMEC is “Strengthening the Hindu Family” and we have participation of a large number of temples from Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, Canada and USA. This semi-academic conference engages spiritual and religious leaders, temples trustees and executives, priests, community change agents and professors who teach Hinduism in Caribbean and North American universities.
The Hindu Mandirs and Spiritual Institutions are our real legacy to the community at large. A monumental task of bringing together mandirs to collectively discuss issues cannot be done by any organization alone. Therefore, HMEC represents a col- lective effort by a large number of temples/organization under leadership of VHPA. Let us be united and work in harmony so that the journey of HMEC becomes a worldwide movement.
A strong network of Hindu Mandirs will help us not only sustain our society but will enhance our collective representation in larger multi-faith communities by providing spiritual, cultural, and social nourishment to each other and to the community. Hindu institutions need to prepare themselves to serve the society for generations to come. It is our duty not only as Hindus but as good citizens of the community that we live in via these institutions. That is how the Caribbean and North American society will recognize the values Hindus live by and our future generations will not only be proud of us but also follow the leadership.
Therefore, we request the delegates to spread the message to all temples and Hindu organizations in their respective com- munities that mandirs should not only perform poojas and celebrate Hindu festivals but also work together to serve the com- munity at large. Doing “Seva” is an inherent and integral part of dharmic tradition. In addition, everything from music, dance, art or architecture in our culture has its origin in temples and the role of mandirs in becoming the lighthouse for the society needs to be revived.
With sustained efforts, we can bring the principle of Vasudhaivkutumbkam to reality and experience “ DharmoRakshatiRak- shitah” (i.e. you protect Dharma- Dharma will protect you). We hope that you will find your stay comfortable and the confer- ence will be meaningful and productive and you will become an ambassador for the HMEC at your institution. We know we are not perfect. Therefore, please forgive us in the event that you experience any inconveniences.
Dhanyavad.
Sincerely Yours, Vipul Patel Deoroop Teemal Convener, HMEC 2015 Convener, HMEC 2015 484-664-9420 868-678-6462 [email protected] [email protected] PAGE 13 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
PAGE 14 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Amarjyoth Sabha Incorporated The Trinidad &Tobago Federation of Mandir Hindu Organisations (TTFHO)
L.P. # 264 Southern Main Road Shiva Krishna Mandir Canupia L.P. 75 Jerningham Junction Cunupia Contact: President & Spiritual Leader Contact: President Pt. Amar Seepersad Pt. Amar Seepersad 1-868-365-4593 1-868-365-4593 [email protected] [email protected]
Message from Pundit Amar Seepersad on the occasion of HMEC 2015
Namaskaar and Seeta Raam,
Congratulations and Blessings to all the organisers and organisations, workers, volunteers and supporters of this most important and relevant HMEC 2015 to be held in Trinidad and Tobago. You all are precious and priceless to our beloved Sanaatana Dharma (Hinduism) and praises would never be sufficient for the Seva you are doing for the benefit of all.
Sanaatana Dharma ( Hinduism ) has not only provided great benefits to the world but has also faced serious challenges and these although different today must be an integral part of any serious discussion for the preservation and propagation of our beloved Dharma. To share the benefits and overcome the challenges we must first know what they are and only then we can formulate plans and strategies. HMEC 2015 is the ideal forum for these discussions which will lead to all-round success.
On behalf of all the members of the Amarjyoth Sabha Inc. and TTFHO I offer best wishes and Blessings for a successful, meaningful and beneficial HMEC 2015.
In The Service of Sanaatana Dharma Pundit Amar Seepersad President
PAGE 15 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.comSwami Issue 10 - October Dayananda 2015 Saraswati The Patriot Saint
S. GURUMURTHY
Swami Dayananda Saraswati—a master exponent of the Swami Vivekananda did, saw, in the ancient nation of India, inclusive Hindu philosophy who declared there was not the very manifestation of all that he had learnt and taught—is ‘ONE GOD,’ but ‘ONLY GOD,’ a teacher of Vedanta who no more. Indeed he was the latest incarnation in the tradition created hundreds of teachers to continue the ancient Indian of nationalist saints of India. tradition, a great organiser who founded the Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha as the representative body of unorganised Endowed with unparalleled intellectual skills and unlimited Hindu religious traditions, a philosopher who harmonised knowledge base, Dayananda first made it a mission of his and validated, from the Hindu perspective of theo-diversity, life to teach and did take Vedanta to a vast elite audience all forms of worship from paganism to monism, an intellectual in India and outside, which would otherwise have been half- who re-articulated and established that religious conversion, westernised in world view and as much christianised culturally. regarded as the right of evangelist religions, is itself violence, He aligned Vedanta to India as a national entity and cultural and finally a patriot saint who, like Maharishi Aurobindo and phenomenon and to Indians as the chosen people entrusted
with the sacred duty to live, sustain and protect it not only “The great successes of this great sannyasi, for them but also for the good of the world. In his exposition, moulded in the ancient traditions of India, is Vedanta was not just a philosophy but it found expression in not, however, as well-known as he himself was. the culture and life of India founded on the idea of dharma—in That also demonstrated the high point of his personality — humility. Maharishi Aurobindo its arts and music, literature and sculpture, society and family, said that the greatest achievements have and in the Indian traditional respect for elders, teachers and been least noisy. This aptly applied to Swami women and ultimately in the reverence for this nation itself Dayananda’s work and life. In his demise, the as sacred and in the love of the entire creation, both animate Hindu philosophy has lost its greatest exponent and inanimate. Starting off as student and disciple of the of recent times, Hindu religion one of its redoubtable Swami Chinmayananda, the originator of the staunchest defenders, and the nation a great contemporary school of exposition of Vedanta, Dayananda patriot saint.” – S. Gurumurthy Saraswati rapidly grew up as an accomplished scholar and PAGE 16 unparalleled teacher. MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 approach—namely that religions should mutually respect and After having worked for decades and succeeded in his mission accept each other, that they should not abuse or trivialise one to teach and create teachers of Vedanta, he turned his another’s faiths or symbols, that they should recognise the attention to some critical issues of contemporary importance right of a person to be in the religion of his birth, and that which would have long-term and adverse implications for there should be no conversion by force or by inducement— the very purpose and soul of this ancient nation. With this and signed the historic declaration. It is the substance of the new turn, in the late 1990s a paradigm shift took place in Amsterdam declaration which Prime Minister Narendra Modi his entire course of thought and action and this led tohis adopted as the approach of his government to different faiths founding of the Dharma Rakshana Samiti in Chennai in 1999. when he addressed the Christian religious meet in Delhi to It was in that unique event, a confluence of some highly celebrate the canonisation of saints from Kerala. regarded saints, spiritualists, and intellectuals, that Swami Dayananda made one of his most memorable speeches where In this period from 1999 to 2008, Swami Dayananda he declared that the very concept of religious conversion undertook some far-reaching initiatives, which included the itself was violence—a spiritual, mental and cultural violence. constitution of the Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha—one of his This redefined the very notion of conversion which till then greatest achievements and equally a great contribution to the had some acceptability among non-Gandhian secularists as a Indian civilisation. The Acharya Sabha has given the diverse right of religions—which in effect meant only the proselytising and unorganised Hindu religions, which had long suffered religions—to convert others to their faith. Gandhiji’s contempt disadvantage relative to the organised and proselytising for religious conversion is too well-known for the secularists faiths, a platform to come together as Dharma religions and to appropriate Mahatma Gandhi to support conversion as participate in the global discourse. Till then, any secularist integral secularism. This is amongst the greatest contributions masquerading as a religious person would sign on the dotted of Swami Dayananda to global inter-religious discourse. The line on behalf of Hinduism in the global fora. redefinition of religious conversion as violence robbed the concept of conversion of benignity and exposed its malignant His next big move was to bring together elders of all character. indigenous faiths—whether from South America or North America, Africa or Europe—at Delhi. Swami Dayananda In 1999 when the then Pope visited India, Swami Dayananda declared that all faiths are sacred and valid and no faith can constituted and led a group of multi-religious scholars and and should be allowed to claim to be superior to other faiths. intellectuals and welcomed but asked him to declare that He articulated religious diversity, which is the strongest point he was happy to visit a nation which has respected all faiths of Hinduism, in the most acceptable, rational and logical and that he also respected all faiths. But the Pope preferred manner and challenged and debunked the claim that some not to accept Swami Dayananda’s suggestion. However, with faiths are only true faiths and others false faiths, which, he his unmatched intellectual prowess Swami Dayananda took argued, is the cause for the widespread hate and violence the battle against conversion in world fora. He proposed today. self-discipline among faiths in the Millennium summit of the United Nations in the year 2000, calling upon religions The great successes of this great sannyasi, moulded in the to respect each other, not to abuse one another and not ancient traditions of India, is not, however, as well-known to convert the faithfuls of other religions by force or by as he himself was. That also demonstrated the high point inducement to one’s fold. of his personality—humility. Maharishi Aurobindo said that the greatest achievements have been least noisy. This aptly There was consensus on his view but finally the proselytising applied to Swami Dayananda’s work and life. In his demise, faiths did not agree and the Millennium harmony proposal the Hindu philosophy has lost its greatest exponent of recent therefore did not succeed. But it took just eight more years times, Hindu religion one of its staunchest defenders, and the for Swami Dayananda to convince the world religious leaders nation a great patriot saint. – The New Indian Express, 25 of the need for trans-religious self-regulation. September 2015
In the human rights declaration of world religious leaders in » S. Gurumurthy is a commentator on political, economic and Amsterdam on December 10, 2008 on the 60th anniversary of cultural affairs in Chennai. E-mail: [email protected] the UN Human Rights Declaration, all world religious leaders, PAGE including the proselytising faiths, accepted the Dayananda 17 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 the arrival of hindus in the caribbean
KUMAR MAHABIR, Ph. D
Between 1838 and 1917, over half a million majority of the indentured labourers. From Indians were transported as indentured 1845 to 1914, a total of 74,721 Indians were laborers to the British, French and Dutch brought to Guyana (49,105) and Trinidad colonies of the Caribbean. The Indians (25,616) from the port of Madras in South came to the British Caribbean in response India. Some of the migrants from South India to the acute shortage of workers in the were also brought to the French-speaking sugar plantations as a result of the abolition islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique (Ally of slavery in 1834 by the British Empire 2002). (Vertovec 2000: 43). The term “indentured” or contract labour was applied to a new The majority of the migrants to the About the author: system of forced labour that replaced African Caribbean came from regions in North India Dr. Mahabir is an slavery in the Caribbean. such as Bihar (14%), Oudh, (derived from the Anthropologist, currently name of Ayodhya, forms a part of present- employed as an Assistant The British colonial authorities chose India, day Uttar Pradesh and parts of Uttarakhand, Professor at the University of with its large agriculture-based population, as 24-28%) and Northwest Provinces (currently Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). a source for recruiting indentured labourers part of Uttar Pradesh, 48-52%). Other His scholarly work includes to the Caribbean. Immigration from India to migrants were from the East Bengal (now Study on East Indian/South the British Caribbean was facilitated by the Bangladesh), Central India, South India and Asian Diasporas. British who were in control of both colonies Punjab (Vertovec 2000: 45-46; Mohanty (Munasinghe 2001: 67-68). 2014: 61). There were individuals from the tribal areas of Bihar and Bengal known Labour recruiters [arkathis], landowners and as “jangalis” or “hill coolies”. North Indian debt collectors exploited poor and vulnerable migrants spoke Bhojpuri, Avadhi, Magadhi villagers. Recruiters were given a fee for and Maithili as well as Bengali and Nepali, tricking, forcing and even kidnapping Indians whereas Tamil and Telegu were spoken by (Roopnarine 2003; Mohanty 2014; Mahabir, the South Indian migrants (Jayaram 2004: 2015). However, some individuals migrated 149). voluntarily because the offered wage of 25 cents per day (in Trinidad) was considered as About 85% of the indentured laborers, a fortune compared to five cents a day for an particularly to Guyana and Trinidad, were average labourer in India (de Verteuil 1989). Hindus, 15% were Muslims and 0.1% Drought and famine also pushed tenant were Christians (Jain 1993: 23). Various farmers and agricultural labourers to migrate castes among Hindus included Brahmanas, for a better future (Mohanty 2014:59). Kshatriyas, Bhumihars, Rajputs and Thakurs, as well as farmers, Ahirs [cowherders], In 1838, the first batch of Indian labourers to artisans, fishermen and boatmen. Low-caste the Caribbean comprised of 244 adults who migrants were Chamaras and Sudras who arrived in British Guiana (now Guyana) from came mainly from South India (Mohanty the port of Calcutta (Vertovec 2000: 44; Ally 2014: 86; Clarke, 2013: 20; Jayaram 2006; 2002). Guyana and Trinidad received the Naidu 2007). PAGE 18 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Long voyages across the oceans found migrants befriending Most often, the jahajis from one ship were placed together in each other and a bond of brotherhood known as “jahajis” or the plantation and barracks. In the absence of real kinship or “jahaji bhai” [ship brotherhood] was developed. Caste, class family bonds, they accepted each other as real relatives and and religious differences were broken down as brotherhood found solace amidst harsh living and working conditions far bonds became more prominent. The “jahaji bhai” bonds away from home in the Caribbean. were sustained even when the migrants worked and lived in the plantations (Mohanty 2014: 61-62).
The first Hindu school established in Trinidad.
This is an old mandir made of earth, cowdung, etc and built in Note: The Hindus in the Caribbean maintained their traditional style of the indentured Indians. Carvings on the mud religious identity and practices in spite of many barriers. The walls tell the story of Ram even though mandir is Shiv Mandir. photos include one of the oldest temples built in Trinidad Lingam is at the center of mandir. during early days of their arrival. (Photos were supplied by Pandita Dr. Indrani Rampersad of Trinidad).
REFERENCES
Clarke, Colin. (2013) Religion and Ethnicity as Metamorphosis of Caste among Trinidad 79 in Callaloo or Tossed Salad?: East Indians Differentiating Factors in the Social Structure Hindus,’ in Contributions to Indian Sociology. and the Cultural Politics of Identity in Trinidad of the Caribbean. MMG Working Paper. Max Vol. 40, No. 2: 143-173. by Viranjini Munasinghe. Ithaca, New York: Planck Institute for the Study of Religious and Cornell University. Ethnic Diversity, Göttingen. Mahabir, Kumar. (2015) ‘Indian Contribution Naidu, Janet. (2007) ‘Retention and De Verteuil, Anthony. (1989) East Indian to the West Indies/Caribbean’, in Contributions Transcultural of Hinduism in the Caribbean,’ immigrants: Gokool, Soodeen, Sookoo, of PIO to their Countries of Adoption edited by (online), in Guyana Journal. Capildeo, Beccani, Ruknaddeen, Valiama, Ajay Dubey (in press). Bunsee. Port of Spain: Paria Publishing. Roopnarine, Lomarsh. (2003) ‘East Indian Jain, Ravindra K. (1993) Indian Communities Indentured Emigration to the Caribbean: Abroad: Themes and Literature. New Delhi: Mohanty, Siba Sankar. (2014) ‘Indian Diaspora Beyond the Push and Pull Model,’ in The Manohar Publishers and Distributors. in the West Indies: An Overview and an Insight’, Journal of Caribbean Studies. Vol. 31, No. 2: pp. 55-102, in Indian West Indian through the 97-134. Jayaram, Narayana. (2004) ‘The Dynamics writings of V.S. Naipaul: Socio-cultural and of Language in Indian Diaspora: The Case of Political Dimensions of Indian Diaspora by Siba Vertovec, Stephen. (2000) ‘Official’ and Bhojpuri/Hindi in Trinidad’, pp. 147 – 171, in Sankar Mohanty. Jawaharlal Nehru University, ‘Popular’ Hinduism, pp. 39-62, in The Hindu The Indian Diaspora Dynamics of Migration, New Delhi. Diaspora: Comparative Patterns by Stephen edited by Narayana Jayaram. New Delhi, India: Vertovec. New York: Routledge. Sage Publications India Pvt. Ltd. Munasinghe, Viranjini. (2001) ‘Shifting Jayaram, Narayana. (2006) ‘The Ethnicity: East Indians against Nation’, pp. 67-
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The Caribbean Jhandi: colorful signs of hindu cultural and spiritual identity
PANDITA DR. INDRANI RAMEPERSAD
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When you visit Trinidad, Guyana and and Surya Narayan. Around 1871, as the Suriname, you will see lots of colourful indentured Indians became free of their jhandis in Hindu homes. After puja, this contract, they moved off the plantations to Vaishnava symbol is planted in a sacred settlements, started owning land, becoming space in the eastern or north-eastern side more financially stable and making homes of the yard and ritually renewed every year. and families, these jhandis flourished as a This dedicated sacred space is usually used form of thanksgiving, consecration of space for open-air worship, like offering water, with and rooting one’s worldview and self in the rising sun, to the Shiva lingam and lighting Mother Earth and the cosmos. the deeya at sandhya time. It usually contains other sacred objects like murtis, sacred Caribbean Ram-Vaishnava Tradition trees and plants, especially the tulasi. Small, simple, and elaborate structures may also In the Caribbean, Hindus are likely to describe be found here and may house some of the themselves, first, as just Hindus and then sacred objects of worship. These structures as affiliated to Vedic (Arya Samaj), Sanatani About the author: Pandita may morph into concrete domestic mandirs. (Hindu Maha Sabha), Kabir Panth, Siewnarine Dr. Indrani Ramepersad, Dharam Sabha (Shiv-Narayan Dharma former Senior Research The jhandi is a sacred pole that connects one Sabha), Kali Temple etc. The two overarching Fellow at The University to the three worlds. While, in the antecedent categories are: Vedic and Sanatani/Pauranic. of Trinidad & Tobago, is culture of UP and Bihar, jhandis are found Trinidad's First Female Priest. at crossroads, mandirs and in the yards of The Pauranic stream dominates Hindu- In an impressive initiation some homes, they are not as ubiquitous and Caribbean traditions, specifically those of ceremony at the Seereeram colourful as we find in the Caribbean. Here, the Ramcharitmanas (Tulsidaas’ Ramayan). Memorial Vedic School in the jhandi has evolved as a unique Caribbean Trinidad Pauranic Hindu worship is bhakti- Montrose, Trinidad, Indrani signifier of a Hindu cultural and spiritual oriented and fuses Vaishnava, Shaiva and Rampersad was ordained identity. These jhandis are noticeable in Shakta worship. Devotees have an Ishta as Pandita by the Arya the Hindu Caribbean diaspora. In North Devata (a specially chosen form of God Pratinidhi Sabha of Trinidad. American and in urban spaces they are likely assigned to them by their gurus at initiation). to be smaller and in pots inside of apartment The major deities worshipped are: Ganesh, housing. Vishnu, Shiva, Surya and Devi. In recent years, global media and movement between Since the jhandi is a physical manifestation India and the Caribbean have seen more of the deity that was worshipped, it is easy deities added, like: Skanda, Dakshinamurti, to see how new colours would evolve as the Sharda, etc. The Kali Temple has recorded local pundits personified the deity through a rise in membership, in recent years and the jhandi. For example, a red jhandi is raised attracts many persons of African traditional after puja to Hanuman, Durga, Kali, and Gram religions. devata; golden yellow for Ganesh, Durga, Vishnu, Kali, etc.; pink for Lakshmi; blue or Caste is no longer functional in Hindu- orange for Shiva; and white for Satyanarayan, Caribbean culture, except for entry into the Surya Narayan, Saraswati and sadguru Kabir priesthood of a few Pauranic organizations, Saheb, and so on. albeit the bigger ones. And this extends to gender as well, as more and more women The first jhandis raised by the indentured are taking up formal positions of authority Indians were red and white corresponding in religious organizations with some even to worship of Hanuman, Satyanarayan breaking the ceiling of the priesthood.
PAGE 21 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 STRONG HINDU FAMILIES FOR STRONG HINDU YOUTH
STEPHEN KNAPP (SRI NANDANANDANA DASA)
Naturally it takes a strong Hindu family to instill in the youth of today faith in their Vedic However, it seems that this is not how it culture. The family is where such faith and is always happening. Too many times the identity begin. parents do not get involved in developing their children’s understanding of Vedic Dharma When the parents are strong in their and its customs. Too many times the parents confidence and practice of the traditions of also do not know enough about it to be able Vedic Dharma, naturally the children will pick to answer all of their children’s questions. up on this. They will also become attracted to Nor are the parents always motivated to go various aspects of the Vedic path. They may to the temple on a regular basis, or to take like watching the arati, or saying the prayers, their children to classes, leaving it up to the About the author: or having their Krishna dolls, or even in children to find their own way. Stephen Knapp (Sri offering their food to the Deity, or watching Nandanandana dasa) is the episodes of the Mahabharata. As they This is why, more than a few times, Indian author of over 25 books get older they may like attending a Hindu Hindu parents have asked me what to do now on different aspects of children’s camp, or going to the temple for that their children are dating a Christian or Vedic culture, and regularly children’s classes like Balgokulam or Balvihar, Muslim, or attending Christian youth camps, speaks at various events, or going to the temple for the holidays like where the criticism of anything outside that has been involved in temple Janmastami and others. Actually, I have seen faith plays a specific role. And when the management for over 40 when the children like going to the Sunday parents object to their children about doing years, and has been a long classes to join with other children at the such things, the Hindu youth reply that their time participant of HMEC. temple; it may also become an impetus for parents were never involved that much or More information about him the parents to regularly go to the temple. took it seriously, or they were always told and his publications can be Yet, the parents should want to go anyway. that all religions are the same, so what makes viewed at his website at: Plus, taking the children every year to joyous the difference? This is where the problems www.stephen-knapp.com. occasions and festivals like Rathayatra, begin. But it is funny that the only religion etc., can create impressions, samskaras and wherein some members say all religions are memories in the children so that they will the same is Hinduism. Otherwise, many other want to continue that tradition when they religions are quick to not only point out the are adults and take their own children to differences, but to criticize Hinduism as well. such joyous events at the temple. They will If families are not strong enough to invoke a remember the happiness when the whole strong Hindu identity in their children by the family celebrated such festivals. This is what way they are raised and educated, then the helps create a strong Hindu identity in the children may grow up to be simply wimpy, family, especially in the children, as well as a hardly Hindus to such a degree that they not loyalty to the traditions. only will not know how to maintain a strong
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Hindu identity, but they may even be philosophy enough to know how to Not long ago I was invited by a young indifferent to do so, or worse yet, be answer questions of their children. They Hindu in Houston to participate in a ashamed of it. In such a scenario, it is should be willing and able to show a Hindu youth camp. I had booked the only a matter of another generation or strong dedication to their Vedic culture plane ticket and everything. But later two when Hinduism, at least in the way and its traditions so the children will it was decided that I should not be we know it, will cease to exist, at least also pick up on that and understand the invited. The reason was because the here in America. benefits that it provides, and what is previous year, another popular western So parents must understand their the basis of these traditions. The Hindu Hindu speaker had been there and was duty to their family when it comes temple priests should also be willing and describing his story of how he became a to the education, the inspiration, the able to explain the details and reasons follower of Vedic Dharma. In telling his understanding, and participation of of any ceremony. The point is, that it is story, he mentioned that Christianity their children in the traditions, customs the family setting and environment, and and Islam did not have what he was and philosophy of Vedic Dharma. the example of the parents that creates looking for. A simple statement, I a strong Hindu identity in the youth, would think, and hardly anything Actually this is an obligation that is which is especially important when political. He was simply relating part of outlined in shashtra. For example, the they are young, which can then help his development. But that statement Bhagavata Purana (5.5.18) explains: continue the tradition in the future. created a backlash at the camp. So it “One who cannot deliver his dependents Without this, the continuation of Vedic was decided this year that they did from the path of repeated birth and Dharma becomes questionable. not want to take a chance of someone death should never become a spiritual saying something similar. And this was master, a father, a husband, a mother, Naturally, as Hindus, we are respectful supposed to be a “Hindu camp.” or a daivam (accepting a worshipable of all religions. But there is no reason position).” why we should not be more so toward The youth I was speaking to came from our own. And this starts in the family. a strong Hindu family, and he was telling So it is the duty of parents to train It is the attractive nature and the me that he felt frustrated by the whole their children appropriately. Naturally, universal spiritual principles in Vedic thing because many of his age group we can only encourage our children to Dharma that draws people to it. We lacked the backbone or strength to stand a certain extent, but it has been seen are not interested in converting people, up for their own culture. Plus, only a that those children that grow up in a especially by tricks, force, intimidation, short time earlier, at a nearby university strong Hindu family are more likely fear tactics, or economic manipulation. the president of the Hindu Student to be grounded in the Vedic values, But in India, these have been important Council, which is known for supporting and will remain stronger in their Vedic tactics for converting Hindus to strong Hindu ideals, converted to Islam identity than those who are not. While other religions for years. I especially because she wanted to impress the those that come from weak-minded saw this while doing two lecture parents of her Muslim boyfriend. This Hindu families, who are taught that all tours in India’s northeastern states. leads to question how much Hindu religions are the same, are also likely They have no qualms about saying are they. How strong are they in their to give it the least consideration. They things like Hinduism is the worship of allegiance to and participation in the become like ships without a rudder, devils and demons. I have even heard Vedic traditions and Hindu community with little spiritual direction, and you do televangelists say that here in America. if they cannot even stand up for their not know where they are going to end And should we not be able to defend own culture or remain in the Hindu up culturally. ourselves from such things? Should we fold? So the question is: Do Hindus not be able to speak out? The strength have a right to defend themselves? Can However, Hindu parents should to do so depends on our upbringing or I say why I left a previous religion to know better than this. They should background. follow Vedic Dharma? Apparently not be educated in their own culture and when other Hindus object. continued on page 25
PAGE 23 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
The Amarjyoth Sabha was incorporated by the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament Act # 4 of 1993 and is also a registered charitable organization. Our main purpose is to promote and propagate Sanaatana Dharma (Hinduism). We are committed to serving the Hindu and general community by providing a family environment conducive to worshipping, learning, educating, developing, empowering and socializing.
WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Sunday Morning Satsangh 8:00am -10:00am
Baal Vikaas Sundays 9:00am to 9:30am
Music Classes Sundays 10:00am - 12:00 noon
Yoga Mondays & Wednesdays 7:00pm - 8:15pm Contact Us: Telephone: 1-868-693-1605 Pt. Amar Seepersad: 1-868-365-4593 Shakha Saturdays 5:00pm-6:30pm [email protected]
“Be the Change you want to See in the World" Mahatma Gandhi
The Amarjyoth Family
Other Mandir Activities Activities of the Women’s Group Observance of all auspicious Supports Central Executive occasions Supports Youth Group Annual Yagya Full Moon Katha Puja New Year’s Satsangh Medical Clinics Annual Sports Days Medical Lectures Hikes Seva Projects Social Activities Savings Initiative Partnerships with other Educational Programmes Hindu Groups Family Nights
Blessings and Congratulations for HMEC 2015
PAGE 24 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 continued from page 23 Certainly, Hindus can do better than this. I do not like to feel if that is a problem, if that is typical about the mindset of that I am in a minority of those who are strong enough to Hindus, then others will and do take advantage of that. take a stand and say that I am proud to be a Hindu, and also have the information and the willingness to explain why. Or The conclusion is that the future of our freedom to participate am I alone here, like a dying breed? in the traditions of Vedic Dharma and its continuation starts with the family. This should not be neglected, nor should we We should be willing to stand up for who we are, and not assume that everything will be all right, or someone else will be afraid or intimidated by those who challenge us or our take care of this and I do not need to be concerned about my tradition. But we need to be educated to know how to do children. We need to recognize how our actions can make a that in the right way. But if we are going to be afraid to difference in our own sphere of influence, starting with our defend ourselves, or try to be overly politically correct which family. That is why a strong Hindu family can set the stage for paves the way for others to walk all over us, then what is strong Hindu youth, which, along with the continued spiritual the future of Hinduism going to be? If we cannot even say development of everyone, is the purpose of Vedic culture. why we chose Vedic Dharma over other religions, because some may interpret that as a criticism of others, then what kind of spineless person are we? I may not be criticizing other religions, but I should certainly feel strong enough to explain what I find attractive and profound about Vedic Dharma. And
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conversion: the global ravaN
RAMNARINE SAHADEO
“At one time we were all Hindus” years. Some of the smaller islands have less - President Abdul Kalam than one hundred Hindus even after taking into consideration recent immigration. One of the greatest threats to Hindu family life and hence dharmic culture is CANADIAN CONNECTION religious conversion. Gandhi saw this as an The early missionaries who were paid by impediment to world peace, violence to India, government to convert Hindus met with and an attempt to uproot Hinduism under little success. From 1856 to 1896 the the cloak of humanitarian work supported average annual number was 29. (Basdeo by imperialists. He astutely recognised the Mangru’s Indians In Guyana Page 39). The About the author: adverse impact this offensive, nefarious, Canadian Presbyterian Mission established Ramnarine Sahadeo, a retired practice had on family life. “In Hindu in 1885 reaped more souls as it was seen Canadian lawyer, was born households, the advent of a missionary has as an Indian church and accommodated in Leguan, Guyana, once the meant the disruption of the family in the some of the teachings of Hinduism. The home of indentured servants. wake of change of dress, manners, language, damage accelerated when the numerous His book, Mohandas K. Gandhi, food...” (Harijan, November 5, 1935). In denominational schools that were part of the Thoughts, Words, Deeds contains the entire Gita with quotes, the Caribbean, it has made families and Christian churches combined education with comments and translation by neighbours strangers if not enemies. Christianity. The teachers were paid by the Gandhi plus speeches of Swami government but one had to be a Christian Vivekananda and Gandhi on This blasphemy against God and Self followed to get a teaching or other government job. Nine Eleven 1893 And 1906. our ancestors from India to many lands This may no longer be blatantly so but even across the Kala Pani aided by government the practice of saying prayers in schools and He is a Founding Member: Sanatan Dharma Educational institutions. From May 5, 1838 when the other government offices may now have to Foundation of Canada, the Whitby and the Hesperus arrived in British be questioned. organisation that initiated Guiana (now Guyana) up to 1917, hundreds the idea of A Gita For Each of thousands of Indentured Servants from The Supreme Court of Canada decision Home and in cooperation with India replaced the slaves on the sugar, cotton on April 15, 2015 involving the City of organisations like HMEC and and coffee plantations around the Caribbean Saguenay, Quebec (2015 SCC 16) opined group sponsors have distributed thousands of English pocket with the larger groups going to Guyana, that government must be completely sized gitas across the globe. Trinidad, Jamaica and Surinam. Conversion neutral in matters of religion or conscience. Phone: 416-970-1492, E-mail: has been quite effective in Guyana, even This case may be used as a guideline, if [email protected] though it received the largest number of not a precedent applicable in many other indentured servants. Of the 240,000 who commonwealth jurisdictions with similar landed in Guyana approximately 90% were legislation. Alain Simoneau, an atheist, who Hindus. The 2002 Guyana Census indicates attended council meetings, objected to the that while East Indians form about 44% of practice of the recitation of Catholic prayers the population only 28% are Hindus. Current by the Mayor and Councillors. A sacred heart figures there and in Caribbean countries statue and a crucifix also adorned the walls show a constant decline in numbers over the of council. This he testified, caused him to
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experience feelings of isolation and exclusion thus violating the judiciary is bold and independent enough to enforce his rights to freedom of religion and conscience as outlined in universally accepted principles. both the Quebec Charter and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. EDUCATION AND INFORMATION The Hindus who convert voluntarily today know little or The court agreed and rejected the argument that prayers were nothing about this knowledge based scientific way of life justified on the basis of tradition and that council's attempt at that has survived centuries of struggle. Guyana, Trinidad and reasonable accommodation by inviting those with objections Surinam have generally been able to maintain their culture to leave the chambers during prayers and then re enter, far largely because of their large numbers. There is an urgent from tempering the discrimination only exacerbated it. This need to promote Dharmic knowledge. This means a more identifies and stigmatises the non-believer. Canadian Society active role for the temples, the establishment of private has given rise to a concept of neutrality, according to which Hindu learning centres, and regular access to or control of the State must not interfere with religion and beliefs. This the media. requires that the State neither favor nor hinder any particular belief or non-belief. Canadian Cultural landscape includes Trinidad has numerous Private Hindu schools with a school many traditional and heritage practices that are religious in board. In Guyana, Saraswati Vidya Niketan a rural private nature. Sponsorship of one religious tradition by the State Hindu Secondary school that only started in 2002 recently in breach of its duty of neutrality amounts to discrimination achieved the country’s best academic results surpassing well against all other such traditions as it creates a distinction, established ones in the city. The country needs many similar exclusion or preference that has the effect of nullifying or institutions. In neighbouring Surinam Hindi is spoken in the impairing the right to full and equal recognition and exercise home and the Hindus own and operate media outlets that of freedom of conscience and religion. are used exclusively for cultural programmes.
This decision can certainly be used as a guide to challenge World peace is not possible unless there is mutual respect any similar objectionable practices in countries with similar for all religions. Those who wish to convert others attract Constitutional Rights. Forced conversion as in International the pity of Swami Vivekananda when he stated in 1893 at demon must be confronted by courts of competent the World Parliament of Religions“...holiness, purity and jurisdiction and hopefully all Western democracies have to charity are not the exclusive possession of any church...every remind themselves of Article 18 of the Universal Declaration system has produced men and women of the most exalted of Human Rights which states in part "Everyone has the character”. right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion..." In the Caribbean the concern about prayers would extend to The omnipresent Ravan must face knowledge in action. all governmental institutions including schools. It should be The first Caribbean HMEC conference can fulfil this duty emphasized that the person who felt uncomfortable was an by passing a resolution to aid Hindu Organisations that atheist. Secondly he was supported by many organisations. challenges any government that violates its own laws of They do not have to be extremists and radicals, just Freedom of Conscience and Religion. ordinary people who insist on equality rights and hope that
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defining hindutva
AMBASSADOR O. P. GUPTA
Hindutva is a hotly contested ideology or cause of their contemporary problems. concept in contemporary Indian politics and different people present it differently to suit Hindutva is rooted in the ethos of their ideological interests. When asked what ‘sarve bhavantu sukhinah,’ ‘Vashudhaiva is Hindutva many critics of Hindutva as well kutumbakam’, ‘‘ekam sad vipra bahudha as supporters of Hindutva start faltering. vadyanti ’and “unity in diversity” so it is an all Therefore a need was felt to define Hindutva inclusive term; it assures equal treatment to in capsule form for its easy understanding even those who may follow different paths and smooth speedy propagation. In my view of worship. It is not anti-minority and is not Hindutva has eight essential components. hostile to other religions per se. Islam and About the author: Christianity do not accept Hinduism on par Shri O.P. Gupta served as Learned scholars can speak for hours and with them. Indian High Commissioner hours explaining Hindutva and may rightly to Jamaica from 1998 to claim it to be infinite, limitless, not definable Hindutva is not a regional, not a country 2001 with concurrent etc. But it is difficult to promote an ideology specific but a global concept embracing all accreditation to Dominican if it is asserted ab initio to be un-definable Hindus living in any part of the world. Shri Republic, Republic of Haiti, when everybody in modern world is hard Mohan Bhagwat, Sarsanghchalak, Rastriya Cayman Islands and Turk & pressed for time. Swayamsevak Sangh rightly said: “A Hindu is Caicoo Islands with residence a Hindu till he feels pain about other Hindus at Kingston. He belongs The term Hindutva (हिन्त㔵饁 ) was used by Shri living in any part of the world.” (Organiser, to 1971 batch of Indian Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883-1966) in September 6, 2009). So Hindutva cannot be Foreign Service and has his book ‘Essentials of Hindutva’ which was defined by a legislature or a court of law of served as Indian Ambassador completed during 1921-22. any one country. to Finland, Estonia, Tunisia, HINDUTVA implies, among other qualities, Dominican Republic, Haiti entertaining feelings of camaraderie by a Hindutva and Hinduism are not synonymous. and High Commissioner to Hindu towards other Hindus irrespective Savarkar opined that Hinduism was only Jamaica and Tanzania. He of caste, colour, region, language, political a fraction of Hindutva. There are fine has authored two books: [1] ideology and country of residence. It is the differences between Hinduism and Hindutva. Vedic Equality & Hinduism spirit of brotherhood among Hindus. It calls Whereas some Hindus may still believe that and [2] Defining Hindutva. for Hindu Unity. It is truly global in reach as the upper caste and lower caste, gender E-mail:[email protected] it concerns Hindus living in every part of the inequality and untouchability are integral globe. It is essentially the feeling of ‘esprit parts of their Hinduism, Hindutva followers d’e corps’ among Hindus. In simple Hindi the treat all Hindus equal by birth and totally Hindutva is the feeling of bhai-chara among reject upper caste, lower caste, gender Hindus. inequality and untouchability syndrome being incompatible with Vedas. Hindutva accepts It is lack of Hindutva which led to thousand en toto Rigvedic commandments of equality years of slavery and subordination of Hindus, of all Hindus by birth and gender equality and, it is again lack of Hindutva which is root RV [X.191]. Another difference between
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Hinduism and Hindutva is that whereas some Hindus may in India to second class status vis-à-vis religious minorities. believe that tolerance of injustice ad infinitum is a part of their version of their Hinduism (ahimsa parmodhramah), Due to lack of Hindutva it has been possible for secular Hindutva believes in exercising the right to self defence as politicians to reduce Hindus to second class status in India per laws of the land. as Hindu students with better marks are routinely refused admissions in minority run institutions, Hindu candidates with Initially term Hindu had geographical connotation i.e. one better CVs are refused appointments in minority institutions, who hails from Bharat or whose ancestors hailed from Bharat Hindu students get student loans at higher interest rates but now followers of Hinduism are spread all over the world than minority students etc. I believe that given right mix and persons from other races too are getting converted into of socio-economic policies pinned on Hindutva plank it is Hinduism such as ISKCON so global definition of Hindu always possible for a pro-Hindu party to successfully win should be the one who accepts Vedas as the Supreme three fourth majority in every Indian Parliament. Scripture and follows Hinduism. Savarkar has written in manifesto of the Hindu Rastra: Due to lack of Hindutva some political parties in India could “Religious minorities will have all the right to practise their muster courage to bring the Prevention of Communal violence religion in a Hindu Rashtra and the state will ensure that; but Bills 2011 and 2013 under which statutory presumption was the Hindu Rashra won’t allow creation of a nation within a going to be thrust upon Indian police and Indian courts to nation in the name of religious minoritysm.” Hindutva is not treat all Hindus, whether living in India or abroad, as criminals anti-minority. till proven innocent in Indian courts if there was a complaint against him made by any minority. All crimes under the Bills Hindutva is akin to genuine secularism in so far it treats drafted by Congress Party were non-cognisable meaning as non-Hindus on par with Hindus but it differs from Congress, soon as a NRI Hindu or a PIO Hindu landed at Indian airport Marxist and socialist brands of secularism. Unlike Congress he would be put in jail till proven innocent. & Marxist secularism Hindutva does not push down Hindus
Durga Temple, VA Proudly Supports HMEC 2015 8400 Durga Place Fairfax Sta�on, VA 22039 Phone: 703‐690‐9355, h�p://www.durgatemple.org
About Temple Durga temple was the rst temple of Bhagwa� Durgaji built in USA. This temple is the place of worship for people of all Hindu faiths. The dei�es in this temple include Durgaji, Shiv‐Parivar, Shri Radha‐Krishna, Ram darbar, Hanumanji, Lakshmi‐Narayanji, Balaji, Shri Mahavirji, Shri Jhulelalji, Shri Shridi Saibaba and Maa San‐ toshi. The priests provide religious services at the temple and outside loca�ons. All major Hindu fes�vals are celebrated. The temple holds a variety of educa�onal cultural ac�vi�es.
PAGE 29 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 multi-faceted role of a DEVALAYA (Hindu Temple) for spiritual development
DR. M. G. PRASAD
Introduction: pooja room in one’s home where in an altar should be set The great rishis of Sanatana Dharma or Hinduism gave us to worship the Lord on a regular basis. Then the third space the vision and plan for life through the four-fold objectives is a Devaalaya where in one participates in the worship namely Dharma (righteous values and knowledge), Artha with family and the community. All these three spaces are (righteously earned wealth), Kama (righteous desires) and connected spiritually. Among these three sacred spaces of Moksha (Bliss through spiritual union with God). In order to worship, the devaalaya is built and worship practices are achieve these four-fold objectives, one needs to put efforts carried out as per the scriptures (agama shastras). through righteous approach with pure mind. It is well known that purification of one’s mind is based on one’s spiritual In the representation of the devaalaya as a human body, development. The integration of devotion, knowledge and the Gopura at the main entrance represents the feet, the action is essential for spiritual development. In this process prayer hall represents the heart, the entrance to sanctum of spiritual development, a devaalaya has many roles. sanctorum represents the neck, the sanctum sanctorum itself represents the head and the walkway around he temple Devaalaya and its significance: represents the hands. The walking from outside world to the Devaalaya means abode (alaya) of God (Deva). As per the inside of a Devaalaya represents that a seeker is getting into Pancharatra Agama, a scripture for science of temples meditation to dwell upon God within. The various activities and worship practice, God has five aspects. They are Para such as worship, educational, cultural and service ought to (Supreme), Vyuha (Emanations), Vibhava (Incaranation), help the seeker-devotee to be able to develop a meditative Antaryamin (Indweller) and Archa (form for worship at mind. Then the seeker devotee with meditative mind can temples and homes). It is also said that “Deho Devaalayaha travel within through the path of yoga (and mediation) Proktaha, Dehi Devo Niranjanaha”, which means that the to realize God within. Thus we see that our rishis gave us devaalaya represents the body of a living human being and the devaalaya to be used as a laboratory for our spiritual the indweller is God. It can be seen that there are three sacred development. Devaalaya is a very special place that plays a spaces for worship where in one can focus and contemplate multi-faceted role in the spiritual development of any seeker. on God. The first space is one’s own heart wherein one should meditate on the Lord. Then the second space is the In addition to the first consecration of the temple when it PAGE 30 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 opens for religious service, at every twelve and beloved guest. In addition to going to years also a special consecration is carried a devaalaya, every Hindu needs to have at out as per the scriptures. The number twelve home a special room with altar with vigraha is significant in our zodiac system and also as to do pooja. A pooja at home or a devaalaya a time cycle as it represents twelve months. is a synthesis of devotion, knowledge and The twelve also refers to the twelve names of action that provides tranquility. In the words Lord namely Keshava, Narayana, Madhava, of yogi-seer Sriranga Sadguru of Ashtanga Govinda, Vishnu, Madhusudana, Trivikrama, Yoga Vijnana Mandiram, Mysore, India, “ the Vamana, Sridhara, Hrishikesha, Padmanabha worship of Deities with rituals at home or and Damodara. Then twelve also represents devaalaya should be carried out with child- the number of jyotirlingas in India. In the like loving mind by the devotees as little About the author: Jain tradition also Mahamastakabhisheka is children play with joy using their toys as Dr. M.G. Prasad is a spiritual done every twelve years. The Kumbhamela medium” disciple of yogi-seer Sriranga is also done every twelve years. Sadguru of Ashtanga Yoga Devaalaya as a place for education Vijnana Mandiram, Mysore, Devaalaya as a place for worship (Poojaalaya) (Vidyaalaya) India. Prasad was the Devaalaya as a place of worship that The spiritual, philosophical and religious chairperson of the education provides a seeker through devotion both aspects of Sanatana Dharma are based committee of HTCS. In practical and experiential way to subjectively on experiences of our rishis. They did addition he has been connect to the God through a medium called not speculate. They provided knowledge associated over the years Vigraha. The term Vigraha means that which behind various practical aspects. The yoga through educational activities specially captures the mind of a devotee. The with all its different forms provided the with several temples in New postures of the vigrahas are based on the practical basis. Thus it is very important Jersey, New York, Albany, yogic visions of the sages. These vigrahas are that devaalaya becomes the resource for Pittsburgh and Houston. He sculpted, sanctified and worshipped based knowledge. In addition to the ritualistic has written several books on the Agamas and meditating on them will worship simultaneous efforts should be on Hinduism. He lectures on help the devotee to advance in spiritual path. made to give the knowledge behind the Hinduism at temples, schools In a devaalaya we see that all the five senses rituals. Either through the trained priests and inter-faith forums. For namely listening to mantras, offering of or knowledgeable volunteers, educational more details, please visit flowers, seeing the vigraha, drinking the holy talks should be given to devotees during the www.taranga.us water and smell of incense can be used by a rituals. Time should be allotted to answer devotee to focus the mind on the worship of questions and answers. Concepts such as the God. The subjective relationship between the four hands of the vigraha representing the devotee and God through worship is very the blessing of four-fold objectives namely important in the spiritual development. The dharma, artha, kama and moksha and the sixteen offerings used in a worship of God inseparable nature of masculine and feminine namely (1) Invoking God into Vigraha, (2) principles being worshipped as deva and Offering a seat, (3) Washing feet, (4) Washing devi, etc should be told. Classes should be hands. (5) Water for sipping, (6) Sacred bath, held regularly to explain the meaning of the (7) Sacred cloth, (8) Sacred thread, (9) Sandal mantras chanted. In addition, regular classes paste, (10) flowers, (11) Incense and Waving are to be conducted to study scriptures an oil lamp, (12) Food, (13) Betel leaves and such as Bhagavad-Gita, Upanishads, etc. In coconut, (14) Waving of a camphor light, addition to the year -round classes, additional (15) Clockwise circumambulation and (16) programs such as workshops, guest lectures, Prostration. Thus we see that pooja can be camps, etc are essential to educate both seen as analogous to treating one’s respected youngsters and adults. One of the reasons
PAGE 31 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 for youngsters not coming in large numbers to temples is due counseling for students and adults, senior citizen oriented to lack of educational programs and youth related activities. activities, outreach to hospitals and nursing homes, feeding the poor, etc. need to be carried out regularly. Devaalaya as a place for cultural arts (Kalaalaya) The music, dance, painting, etc form the vibrant part of Concluding Remarks Sanatana dharma. It is well known that the seekers through Thus we see that a devaalaya is a place where all facets music and dance have realized God. In the time of festivals of Sanatana Dharma namely Jnana (knowledge), Bhakti celebrated at the devaalaya special cultural programs (devotion) and Karma (service) come together. The including educational aspects should be arranged. Various management of a devaalaya which is also made up of themes corresponding to the festivals such as Shivaratri, volunteers is to make sure that all the above four aspects are Ramanavami, Krishna janmashtami etc should be presented equally emphasized. One way to ensure equal emphasis is by as dance-dramas so that the youngsters can understand and requiring that all trustees or directors of the board has to be appreciate better. Cultural fairs need to be arranged in which involved in one of the four areas namely worship, education, classical art forms are to be emphasized. culture and service. It is important that the management board truly work towards making the volunteers in all areas Devaalaya as a place for service (Sevaalaya) feel that their services are contributing to the devaalaya. Volunteers form the core work group of a devaalaya. Any All these areas need to be budgeted properly. It is to be work done in the devaalaya in the areas such as worship, remembered that devaalaya provides an opportunity for education, crowd management, fund raising, facility all volunteers including trustees and directors to get rid of maintenance etc can be seen as a service. However specific their ego and make progress in their spiritual development programs for serving the community such as free health fairs, through serving the common cause namely the God.
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With Best Compliments From Sri Ganesha Temple 527 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209 Phone: (615) 356‐7207 Www.ganeshtemple.org
PAGE 33 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
INDOVATION
DR. ARVIND SINGH
There is a great concern among Hindu in cultures from across the world. “Why leaders and elders that the traditional ways of should I do these meaningless things?” is the being are slowly (and quickly in some cases) common refrain when faced with elaborate decaying. These sentiments are usually Hindu rituals. articulated in speaking about perceived
shortcomings of Hindu youth. In particular, The treatment they are perceived to favour western cultural for this attrition has largely drawn on the forms over Indian ones, to refrain from “Glorious Indian Past” discourse in an attempt participation in activities or to participate to bolster the sense of identity of the youth by unwillingly, to not honour traditional values instilling a pride in past Indian achievements. and more importantly to not care to learn While this has worked to some extent as a about them. hook, the lack of deeper support means that there is little to harness creative energy and On the other side of the rift is the new inevitably any mild interest generated is generation that views many traditions as eventually displaced, consigned to the realm superstitions, do not connect with Indian of fun facts and celebrity trivia, put away in a classical arts (boring) and view themselves as mental box that is opened only when casual world citizens that assimilate and participate discussion calls for it. PAGE 34 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
pitches Practice for their becomes product culture ideas. when it is The most transparent popular About the author: to the w e r e Dr. Arvind Singh is a Lecturer practitioner. selected and in Electrical Engineering at To really participants the University of the West reclaim the future generations, therefore, we broke off into working groups to flesh out the Indies where he started have to examine the everyday Sanskarization ideas. At the end of the day, teams assigned a number of projects that is present, especially in formative years. coordinators to take the projects forward. integrating technology Currently, almost all available resources Projects that were not selected were archived in Indian culture. He has for early childhood education, toys, games, for later development. also studied Sanskrit at books, music etc. have a western cultural the University of British background. Stuffed toys for example often Naturally this type of framework raises Columbia, Vancouver and come with western classical music. Hindu many questions with regard to funding, has been teaching Sanskrit in cultural forms are being increasingly made management and intellectual property. Trinidad for the past 6 years special activities that happen in temples or at Under the Inndovation framework these through the National Council special occasions. Although, there have been things are all to be decided at the group for Indian Culture and later some organizations (e.g. Chinmaya Mission) level. However, since volunteers are doing his own organization, The that are seeking to address this, there is still most of the development the usual case is Centre for Indic Studies, a long way to go in terms of creating the that they are interested only in developing Trinidad. product ecosystems necessary to re-infuse the products and not the commercialization everyday life with Hindu forms. aspects. This means that a coordinating body is required to commercialize products and Inndovation (Indic Innovation) is an active provide remuneration to developers where movement to re-integrate cultural forms into required. Having a central coordinating body everyday life through innovative products and is also beneficial for uniform branding and initiatives. The programme was kick started building brand loyalty. on January 24th 2015 at the Divali Nagar in Trinidad and Tobago. The aim of the event Our vision is for the Inndovation movement was to bring together people with diverse to spread internationally, to give rise to skill sets to create Indian cultural products. a massive network of developers and The session started with an idea pitch where participants that would actively create the members of the audience (which included, product ecosystems through which Hindu artists, engineers, musicians, religious knowledge and culture will grow in future leaders and parents) brainstormed ideas for generations. 5 minutes and then gave one minute elevator
PAGE 35 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 religious freedom in usa a hindu perspective
DHANANJAYA KUMAR
(Summary of a lecture delivered at an one's own religion, particularly by minorities. international conference of college students at I personally feel that there are no policy and George Mason University recently) institutional biases against any religion in USA. And compared to many other countries, The topic today "Religious Freedom in USA" there is ample religious freedom in USA. involves 3 sets of issues - namely, religion, There may be personal or individual biases freedom, and USA. The last one is the easiest or preferences but, in terms of society and to deal with, compared to the first two. governance, this country is quite liberal, Representing any religion is a complicated tolerant, multi-cultural and diverse. business. With millions of personal gods, thousands of scriptures, texts and aphorisms, The basic tenet of religious freedom in USA is About the author: half a dozen major philosophical systems, "separation of church and state" as stipulated Dhananjaya Kumar email: absence of any prophets or precepts or in the US Constitution which is inherently [email protected] a single authority to dispense happiness, secular. Religious freedom or neutrality and no mention whatsoever of Hindu or is both stated and implicit at the level of Hinduism in any scripture; it is difficult for government policy and institutions. Like anyone including myself to fully and truly many other democracies, however, it can be represent Hinduism, although I was born as said that a few contentious issues remain in one, and am satisfied as being one. certain segments of society. For example, the inscription "In God We Trust" on the dollar bill The Hindu scriptures do mention, however, and certain buildings may leave the atheists what they call "Sanaatan Dharma." In Sanskrit in cold; the official prohibition of "prayer in language, sanaatan means eternal; and public schools" may dishearten those who dharma means that which upholds - like the believe that a few meditative moments in earth holds or supports you as a life form, or the morning can reduce stress and increase your righteous duties uphold you as humans, intelligence; and "vote bank" politics that woo parents, children, neighbors, workers, religious minorities at election times may leaders, teachers, etc. be expected. The most blatant examples of religious hazard, however, are when innocent I am not here to promote or criticize any people are harassed or attacked on streets by religion in particular. As a Hindu, however, prejudiced individuals or groups. it is relatively easy for me to address the topic for today "Religious Freedom in USA". On the other hand, one finds a growing It is a little more complex to speak on what number of people in virtually every field who I consider more important topics, such as: are increasingly drawn to or interested in freedom of religion; freedom within religion; Hinduism, including scientists, intellectuals, and freedom from religion. scholars, writers, managers, and others. The principles of Yoga and Vedanta are now First, "religious freedom", is generally ingrained in our society here. All this is perhaps understood as freedom to follow or practice PAGE 36 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 because of the scientific orientation of Hinduism, as well as sufficient freedom within Hinduism, I might have considered the flexibility, adaptability, and openness of philosophical choosing another religion or no religion at all. ideas which can be subjected to debate and discussion. In other words, Hinduism is a blend of scientific knowledge and Then the third point is "freedom of religion". In a really free mystical experience with a greater emphasis on individual or world, a child can be taught something about all religions so personal quest for wisdom and enlightenment, rather than that, as a grown-up, the child is free to choose whichever external rituals and practices. religion attracts or inspires him or her. Moreover, such freedom would also apply to switching from one to another religion On a personal level, I enjoy complete freedom of expression at will, without worrying about sanctions or punishment. and pursuit of my spiritual aspirations and practices, along Or one could consciously choose not to adopt any religion with educating others who are interested in the arts and at all. Alternatively, a mature adult could pick and choose culture of India. elements from a I am one of the variety of religions, founders of India and customize a International personal religion. School in Virginia After all, as Dalai over 25 years Lama has said- the ago. The School best religion is that now offers over which makes you 100 classes in loving, peaceful, and music, dances, compassionate. Yoga, philosophy, That brings us to and languages the last point about of India, taught "freedom from by 40 teachers religion", which, in at 3 locations in this context, does Northern Virginia. not mean absence of religion or religious experience. It refers to a futuristic Our students not only excel in their academics, but are also vision that "organized religions" of the past have not saved more peace-loving, creative, and socially responsible. Above the humankind from its present deplorable state. Today's all, there is an "Indian-ness" that cuts across ethnic minorities humanity is facing an accumulation of problems associated from all regions of India. That is because Indian-ness is not with poverty, hunger, thirst, disease, illiteracy, violence, wars, only deeply rooted but transcends all religions. This is what destruction, human trafficking and exploitation, economic attracts the mainstream folks to the school. Being born in greed and fraud, political unrest, social conflicts, wasteful a village and having travelled to some 60 countries as an consumption, and environmental degradation, etc. Add economist over a period of 25 years has taught me a measure to this a degree of misunderstanding, misinterpretation or of cultural sensitivity necessary for our many diverse societies. miscommunication about religions. Some of these are old problems, getting worse, while others are new ones which Now, let us broaden the definition and meaning of "religious require a new way of thinking, and organizing ourselves. freedom" which has to do with religion itself. So the second Despite the fact that all religions have taught love and peace point is "freedom within religion". That means an individual's for many centuries, mankind as a whole has yet to acquire freedom to choose or follow certain aspects of a religion these qualities. And if human beings are by nature violent and rather than embrace everything taught or practiced in a destructive, then perhaps nature will find a way to transform religion. Any religions as a complete and mandatory package or deselect the human species. Continuing on the same can sprout intellectual issues for the followers. Here also existing path could thus lead the humans, and possibly other there is ample freedom in USA; but that probably cannot be life forms, to devolve if not dissolve. said about all religions in general. Personally, had I not found
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So perhaps a shift in consciousness is now becoming urgent and from religion. It can be said without hesitation that there in order to help evolve more enlightened individuals and is no observable restrictions to these freedoms in USA. What societies. And that may obviate the need for any religious is required of us though is to stay within the law and not harm dogma. Individuals and societies who are free from suffering, anyone. Religions themselves tend to create a structure of conflict and exploitation would naturally feel free, happy mind glued to a system of thought, claiming supremacy over and fulfilled. They would be self-sufficient to develop their the others. Ultimately, the highest freedom is "freedom of the own paths for spiritual growth and enlightenment, without mind" to enable maximum creativity, dynamism, happiness, religious precepts which are externally imposed. and self-realization. I would like to invite and encourage you all to engage in self-reflection, look beyond the established One can recognize that some of these ideas may be utopian or ideologies, develop a vision for the long-term future of impractical. But then, logic and practicality have never been humanity, and practice your own religious freedom in a way the launching pad for a shift in paradigm, ground-breaking that serves the higher purpose of society. discoveries, or path-breaking technologies. More important than "religious freedom" is, therefore, the freedom of, within,
एकम सत विꥍ섾 बहुधा वदन्त |
PAGE 38 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 How To Involve Youth in Temples Dr. Hari Bindal
This is an important and concerning issue Benefits About the author: ‘how to involve Youth in temple activities’. Child's parents will be proud to see their child Retired after serving the US Here with I am suggesting and proposing a speak, will ask some friend to come, and the Government (Air Force, Navy, plan. In my opinion this would be the most child himself will bring some of his friends to and Coast Guard) for 26 years, effective and the only way to bring children/ see him speak. Child's knowledge in religion City of Detroit 6 years, and youth to temples. will increase, thus, most probably youth Private consulting 6 years, Dr. attendance will increase. Bindal has a Ph.D. degree in The plan Environmental Engineering Set aside a slot of time for children/youth Subjects of speech Management. Prior to coming to speak during regular Puja and religious Children could prepare themselves or with to USA in 1974, he served UP discourse time in temples. All temples in the help of the coordinator a speech on Jal Nigam as AE for 2 years USA generally have 2-3 hours of Puja and subjects as simple as his knowledge on Gods and as a Lecturer at Madhav religious discourse gathering at least once (Ram, Krishna, Hanuman, Ganesh, etc.) and Engineering College for 6 years. in a week. This will bring a change from the as deep as concept of Hinduism beneficial to Dr. Bindal is a Life member and monotony of Pandit Ji, which children have youth in USA. They can take time to prepare serves on GC VHP of America. little or no interest in, and do something new as much as they need. The coordinator need Served several social, political, that will interest children/youth. to line up children each week. Let the child religious and professional prepare some and the coordinator help him organizations, including No extra efforts and No extra time needed improve and practice dry run. founding of American Society Cut only about 20 minutes of the regular of Engineers of India Origin Puja and religious discourse by the priest or Coordinator (ASEI) in 1983. A poet, writer, Pandit Ji and let a pre-prepared child speak There could be more than one coordinator social activist, and film maker, he on a prepared subject or issue during the set and could change or rotate on regular has published 4 books in Hindi aside time, every week basis. Any devotee who has knowledge and and autobiography in English. interest could serve as coordinator. Some Married, father of a son and Only needed is a Coordinator temples should come forward and run pilot daughter, has two grandchildren, Each week, a child/youth has to be prepared plan. Drawbacks and necessities identified lives in Bowie, Maryland. by an adult volunteer, who can help the child and should be incorporated in full practicing Ph: 301- 262-0254 prepare the speech. For this, temples need plans in all temples. E-mail: [email protected] to assign a coordinator, person to prepare Res: 7605 Quicksilver Ct and line up a child for each week. Bowie, MD 20720
PAGE 39 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Reviving The Hindu Temple Ecosystem Sandeep Balakrishna
The Temple Culture indeed produced superior human individual sins—the most devout-looking devotees are your resources required to sustain not just these endeavors but, bribe-seeking bureaucrats who in turn bribe God; as a means indirectly, a kingdom itself. to cure ailments; as a quest to get a bride/groom/child…in short, a reduction to mere materialism. Of course, not all of How often have we heard this refrain or its variants: I don’t these are objectionable or wrong per se. However, they are go to temples. I don’t like going to temples…I mean, there’s far inferior to those people who visit temples as an end in no point…all that noise, meaningless mantras and rituals… so itself. These are few and their numbers are ever-dwindling. unhygienic…I don’t believe in God, I’m not religious but I’m spiritual…after all, Hinduism is a personal religion and I don’t But what seems incredible is the fact that such criticisms really need to go to a temple to pray….? have, far from diluting the fervor, only given birth to newer and newer temples. Indeed, Hindus have historically been And how often have we ourselves uttered this refrain? prolific temple builders, an inherited cultural trait that continues unabated till date. Admittedly, there’s a grain of truth in each of these utterances. It is no secret that even the most Committed Secularist First the practical, physical aspects: There’s no dearth of Minister has donated money to a temple and/or is its trustee. temples that are dirty and unhygienic, have unruly crowds, It is this inherited cultural trait on which centuries of alien and appear meaningless and chaotic to everybody except the invasions and the current venom of secularism have failed most devout. Temple priests are less than honest and less to make even an inch of dent. However, as things currently than learned. stand, this trait is admirable but it’s nothing to really celebrate because we’ve just retained the form, not the spirit. On the other side, most Hindus have tragically reduced temple-going to a base activity that comprises one or several To be blunt, majority of those who utter such lofty-sounding or all of these: bribing the Deity as a means of expiating nothings—I’m not religious but spiritual, etc—base their PAGE 40 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
criticism about temple-going on ignorance. “sacrifice” while in both spirit and practice, This applies in equal measure to those who it was an elaborate ritual of sharing—a ritual are genuinely proud of Hinduism and to where all communities and strata of society what I call the Lamenting Hindus: those came together and offered their material and who see their revered Sanatan Dharma in a non-material services for the welfare of the state of terminal decline but are unable to do entire country. It was an act of strengthening anything to halt the decline. human, social and national bonds on an epic scale. A Yajna was how the entire nation This also definitely applies to those Hindus renewed its vows to itself. who learn their Hinduism either from the Western Curators of Museum Hinduism or A Yajna wasn’t simply one monolithic ritual About the author: from the New Age Management Guru variety that went on for a specified number of days Sandeep Balakrishna is a who’ve suddenly discovered their Hindu where some people chanted mantras while columnist and author of roots. However, this most certainly applies the rest just looked on. Music, dance, poetry, Tipu Sultan: the Tyrant of to those who pontificate that Hinduism and the arts were inseparable elements of Mysore. He has translated has only its rich philosophy and similar ill- every Yajna. Indeed, Yajna is the root of pretty S.L. Bhyrappa’s “Aavarana: informed bunkum that actually does injustice much all forms of pujas and other rituals that the Veil” from Kannada to to Hinduism. (This sentence needs to be Hindus perform today. The priest who calls English. rephrased.) upon people to sing towards the end of say, REF: http://indiafacts.co.in/ These last categories of Hinduism experts the Satyanarayana Puja, is simply continuing reviving-the-hindu-temple- are fit to be consigned to the dustbin the same practice that was followed in Yajnas ecosystem/ simply because their extraordinary self- conducted thousands of years ago. Indiafacts- Truth be told righteousness that they know everything (June 17, 2015) there is to Sanatan Dharma is only matched As the Vedic culture evolved and gave us the by their arrogant disdain for those who know concept of murtipuja (incorrectly translated better. as “idol worship”), Yajna gradually found an organic expression in the form of the Temple And so, the answer to the Lamenting Hindus Culture. A temple in spirit wasn’t just a place is this: a well-thought out revival of the for people to worship and return home: it ancient and medieval Temple Culture is one was simultaneously the centre of education, of the major keys to revive and rejuvenate the hub of the community and the city, the Sanatan Dharma itself. home of the performing and literary arts, and the platform for free and fair social and If the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the political discussions and debates. Dharmashastras provided the philosophical, moral, ethical and societal foundation and the The plan, design, and structure of almost Epics (Itihasa) and Puranas, the rich literary all classical and medieval temples were framework to sustain this foundation, it was well-defined, scientific and the Temple Culture that spawned, incubated, followed the rules of Indian nurtured, sustained, and spread Sanatan architecture laid down in the Dharma’s cultural and social milieu from time Shilpa Shastra texts. A visit immemorial. to any of these still-surviving temples makes it clear The origins of the Temple Culture date back that areas are earmarked to the Vedic concept and practice of Yajna. for specific purposes: The word Yajna is incorrectly translated as dormitories for pilgrims, halls
PAGE 41 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 for debates and allied activities, a Yajna shala, a NatyaShala, Therefore, when a temple was destroyed, it also simultaneously the water tank, platforms for students to take their lessons destroyed every cultural facet of that kingdom. Notice the fact - the actual temple itself forming a small part of this grand that today, very little of the classical tradition has survived in architectural scheme. In a way, Varanasi is one massive North India. This is the direct consequence of repeated and temple that houses hundreds of mini-temples within its walls. large-scale temple destructions by Mohammedan invaders and the long spell of Mughal rule, which prevented Hindus Perhaps the greatest contribution of the Temple Culture from building new temples and from renovating or restoring is in the field of our classical existing ones. As far as the performing arts. Indian classical South is concerned, we see this music and dance primarily phenomenon most prominently evolved from and were refined in Goa, whose original name is over hundreds of years in Gomantaka. Few temples have the confines of thousands of survived there and the classical temples all over the sacred tradition is almost non-existent. geography of India. Under Pandit Jawaharlal It is a truism in the realm of Indian Nehru, the Temple Culture was classical performing arts that the systematically relegated to the performing art dies when its last dustbin with a really simple practitioner dies without leaving device—by putting temples behind a successor. No amount directly under Government of notations or theoretical texts control as part of his poisonous will substitute the guru-shishya project of de-Hinduizing India. tradition that alone sustains our This sinister project proved classical performing arts. It is the even more malevolent because Temple Culture that sustained while it didn’t physically destroy this guru-shishya tradition by temples, it ensured the same granting the guru the material cultural outcome—the outcome prosperity and social respect which makes even staunch to perpetuate his/her art for Hindus wear their non-temple- posterity. going as a badge of pride.
The Temple Culture indeed And then these selfsame produced superior human Hindus wonder why classical resources required to sustain music concerts and dance not just these endeavors performances get no but, indirectly, a kingdom sponsorship. And they also itself. It produced ministers, advisors, strategists, artisans, wonder why our native languages and literature are dying and teachers. Those who unthinkingly call Madurai, out. And they wonder still, why we don’t build such grand, Rameshwaram, Tanjavur, etc merely as “temple towns” need artistic and awe-inspiring temples anymore. to re-examine their statement in this light. It’s therefore unsurprising that almost all kings gave such large grants And then they close their noses at the stench emanating to temples and didn’t normally dip into temple wealth for from the temple complex not realizing that it emanates from political uses. These grants, donations and offerings once their own ignorance. made became Devaswa—Property of the Deity.
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HINDU CULTURE AND TEMPLES Dr. Vimal Patel
About the author: Hindu Culture in a nutshell including man, known as Atman-Brahman Dr. Vimal Patel is a In May of 1953 for the first time two men Aikyam. Creation in the Hindu thought is Vanaprasthi and lives stepped on the summit of Mount Everest - represented by this principle with its intrinsic with his wife Kusum in Edmund Hillary and a Hindu Sherpa Tenzing attributes of Satyam, Jnanam, and Anantam Indianapolis. He has spent Norgay. While Hillary used that moment to which is Brahman meaning infinite existence, his professional career as hoist his National Flag, Tenzing kneeled and knowledge and power to do. teacher and researcher in the touched the top of the summit with his head field of integrative medicine with humility and reverence and adorned Ancient sages not only cognized the Atman- at Indiana University, School his head with the dust of the summit. This Brahman Aikiyam concept but also developed of Medicine. Currently he is a vivid example of two visions of man’s the infrastructure of nurturing the nature, serves as adjunct professor relationship with Nature, of two philosophies which was presented as the development- at Martin University, and of two lifestyles. One vision highlights stage appropriate rites and rituals across Indianapolis, Indiana. man’s quest to explore, conquer and rule over the life span of man —from the thought of nature and the other treats nature as Mother conception to end of life. It is this scientific and man and every other living and nonliving infrastructure developed by the Vedic Sages entities as the children of nature with man that helped sustain Hindu civilization, making willingly and lovingly sharing lap of Mother it the oldest living civilization. In other words, Nature with fellow beings. It is this second in this integral view of the cosmos, individual vision that is embedded in the millennia-old human being is the miniature replica of the Hindu way of life and has survived the test universe. It is this Vedic cosmology that of time and still flourishing in the present permeates in entire Vedic corpus—the world. Every aspect of Hindu Culture - its body of Hindu teachings known as Sastra scriptures, philosophy, sciences, arts, music, or science of living, the manual for man’s lifestyle, ceremonies, festivals, temple psycho-social development, purpose and architectures and the Temple consecration meaning of human life, and fulfillment of four ceremonies permeates with this vision. The idealized goals of human life, namely Dharma evolution of this way of thinking goes back to (righteous and ethically disciplined lifestyle), the perception of the natural order (Dharma Artha (earning wealth for security), Kama and Satyam) of cosmos by ancient Rishis and (enjoyment of life’s pleasures), and Moksha Sages of Indian subcontinent and is based on (Self-realization/freedom from attachment the understanding of “oneness” of the Self and aversion in this very life). (consciousness) and the manifested cosmos
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Who is Hindu and what are Hindu Scriptures? performance of Pancha Maha Yagnas (five great duties for Hinduism is a body of teachings which came to us from our Hindu householder). They are: Scriptures—the origin being Vedas and from that so many secondary scriptures -Puranas, Smritis, Itihasa (Ramayana 1. Deva Yagna (Worship of Gods)- This is done by and Mahabharata), Gita, Yoga Sutra, and so on. The aim of offerings to Deities and includes Sandhya Vandana or Gayatri these scriptures is to guide and help us in living a meaningful, meditation at home to develop spiritual atmosphere in the purposeful, peaceful, and satisfying life. It offers to guide us home and making the home itself a temple. Over the course if we are willing to take it, no compulsion is given, just like of time, this Yagna evolved into a collective temple where a manual that comes with a gadget - read the instructions a community comes together, people meet and mingle, first, otherwise you may not get the benefit from the gadget, participate in arts, music, celebrate various festivals, etc. All and not reading may also lead to some damage. Similarly the of these activities are part of Hindu spiritual pragmatism. scriptures give us a manual regarding how to use our body, In the temple, individual talent is brought out, community mind, intellect, and resources we have around us. So, the feeling is created and differences are forgotten. guidance is primary Hindu teaching. And who ever has got 2. Pitru-Yagna (Worship of forefathers)—Taking care of trust in the validity of these instructions and willing to follow our own family and remembering or seeking the grace of our the guidelines is a Hindu. ancestors since we owe our bodies and existence to them. 3. Manushya-Yagna (Taking care of fellow human The scriptures talk about both our material as well as spiritual beings) - Our service to humanity. Our mere survival/ needs. They believe that material needs such as wealth and existence is due to the contributions of several people – pleasure are primary, and our scriptures respect that. In those who grow and supply the food, those who produce the fact, they say that you enjoy life in healthy manner—healthy clothing and those who provide amenities for our daily life. to yourself and healthy to society. And the expectation of Therefore, as an expression of our gratitude we must give the scriptures is that when the lower (material) needs are back to our society. reasonably satisfied then, like Maslow’s hierarchy, higher 4. Bhuta-Yagna (Taking care of other beings) — needs begin to become prominent. It is then one begins to respecting and taking care of environment and as well as think about who am I, why I am here, is there any purpose animals, plants, rivers, lakes, and air quality. in life, Is there a God, what is the truth behind the world and 5. Brahma-Yagna (Worship of Knowledge) —systematic so on. Hundreds of questions centered on the truth behind study of scriptures. This is the most important practice the individual, world and God—the truth of this triangle for inner growth, for without theory how can we practice arises which we call spiritual hunger. Initially the hunger anything? All our Acharyas emphasize this. For example comes as lukewarm interest and we read one book here and Swami Chinmayananda, has insisted that we make Bhagavad there and slowly that becomes a deep desire. The first part Gita as our core scripture. There should be at least consistent of the scriptures called Veda-Purva is for the fulfillment of and systematic study of Bhagavad Gita. Balagokulam classes our normal needs and then Vedanta for higher needs i.e. and discourses on Gita, for example, help in passing on the religious and spiritual parts. The spiritual part handles our scriptural teachings to our children and generations to come. spiritual needs and that has to be done with the guidance of a competent Guru. This is what the scripture suggest— These five great duties for man are designed for sensitization fulfillment of material needs, develop spiritual hunger, and of our mind and recognizing our inexorable link with fulfill the spiritual needs also. This is the product ofour everything that exists in the cosmos. scriptures. Hinduism is a Teaching Tradition Implementing the scriptural teachings into lifestyle The teachings of scriptures have been preserved and In Vedic/Hindu teaching tradition, the scriptures and teachers passed on from generation to generation through lineage talk about incorporating certain exercises into our lifestyle of teaching established by ancient Vedic Sages like Vasishta, while fulfilling the material needs. These exercises will help Viswamitra, Agastya, Markandeya, Atri, Gautama, Bharadwaj, us with our inner growth. The scriptures always emphasize and many others including Vyasacharya, who along with
PAGE 45 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 his disciples codified and systematized the Vedic teaching Why Temples and when did the Temple concept began? through Acharya lineage system that we see today. It is this In the Vedic period people carried out the rituals in the fire and system that produced great teachers like Sankaracharya, the structures/buildings where Yagnas were conducted were and continued through recent teachers like Vivekananda, dismantled to the core at the end of the ritual. Therefore, to Sivananda, Chinmayananda, Dayananda and many others. move away from such a practice, Agama Sastras evolved and thereby the Temple concept. Since Puranic period Hindus Among the many Acharyas that came through this system, began to build permanent temples of various styles and in the contributions of Sankaracharya remain unmatched. His general they were open to all people. standardization of the worship of deities/Pooja system and non-dualistic Vedantic teaching are observed widely. In fact, Temples have played a pivotal role in the development, it is the pragmatic non-dualistic concept that he established promotion, and preservation of religious rituals, art, music, that occupies the center of harmony and stability of the dances, architecture, Vedic scholarships, and social traditions Indian society. for our Hindu civilization. Even today many parts of India This suggests that humanity needs spiritual sway to coexist the role of temples remain as vibrant as millennia before and in peace and harmony and therefore, continuity of this Vedic Indian migrants to foreign lands have also been preserving teaching is crucial not only for Hindus but for entire humanity. their cultural heritage through temples and teaching traditions. Why so many Gods? Many of the abstract ideas of our scriptures were simplified Temples are necessary for both preserving forms and making and made understandable by Acharyas by concretizing them the principle behind the form available. These permanent into forms such as Siva, Vishnu, or Devi. For example, the structures are required not only for promoting/sustaining idea of God in Hinduism is formless and for most people it is inner harmony, peace, and quietude, but also for education of difficult to understand this concept and Acharyas understood children and scriptural discourses for community to preserve that difficulty. Therefore, they developed representations the legacy of the Hindu Culture for Hindu diaspora and their or symbolizations of all abstract ideas. For instance, the children growing up in the culture of their native or adopted fundamental needs of health, wealth and knowledge/wisdom countries. The temples are also places of interactions with without which life would be impossible have been symbolized people of different faiths and help in promoting understanding as Durga, Lakshmi, and Sarasvati. Similarly, almost every and bridging gaps. In essence temples serve the purpose of abstract idea has been made into symbol/deity. Unfortunately, bringing man closer to man. And the Hindu diaspora of North often we hold on to symbol and forget the concept. Swami America is fulfilling its Dharma of preserving Hindu cultural Chinmayananda used to say, “Idol stands for ideal—idol is a heritage for coming generation by building temples. It is fact, ideal is a concept.” The concretization of abstract values estimated that there are more than 500 temples in North into idols/symbols is analogous to spirit and form and both America. are important much like spirit and body—without spirit the body become a corpse and without body spirit becomes a Acknowledgement: ghost. Therefore, immediately following the transformation of concepts into forms, the ideas have been brought to सदाशिव समारंभां शङ्राचार㔯 मध्यमं | life through stories of Puranas and Itihasa (Ramayana and अस्मदचार㔯 पर㔯न्ता वन्饇 गु셁परम्राम || Sadasiva samarambham Sankaracharya madhyamam Mahabharata); for every value certain characters have been Asmadacharya paryantam vande guru paramparam created and for God also several forms have been given, such as one for courage, one for compassion, one for magnanimity, Meaning: I salute the lineage of teachers until our own, etc. In other words Puranas and Itihasas give forms to our starting from Sadasiva, the all auspicious ultimate reality philosophy. Thus many gods in Hindu temples and pilgrim Brahman, with all the enlightened scholars and teachers in places give forms to Vedic philosophy. the middle.
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We do have Temples, however to satiate our cravings for a Pilgrimage between our trips to The Motherland, an ideal destination is VRAJ THE LEELA BHOOMI OF KRISHNA IN THE WESTERN WORLD Located in the Serene lush- green valley of the Blue Mountain of Central Pennsylvania Campus of VRAJ has Five Elements manifested in Six FORMS as Yamunaji is present in both River as well as Goddess Forms: NORTH AMERICAN VRAJ MOUNT GOVARDHAN - GIRIRAJJI YAMUNAJI That was lifted by Bal Krishna. Parikrama Marg with Beach Sand. A Cave for Mukharvind Mandir.
Where the atmosphere and vibrations around Yamunaji are conducive to have Anubhooti – the manifestation of The Goddess form of sacred river of THE SUPREME ENTITY - THE ULTIMATE DIVINE VRAJ, where Krishna had his Leelas. BRAHM Participate at Dawn & Evening Yamunaji Artis at VISHRAM GHAT like Mathura. Nandalaya KRISHNA AS SHRINATHJI THY LEELA & DARSHAN
Accentuated by hand-carved ornate 85
Stone Balconies 41,000 Sq. Ft. Haveli Mukhiyaji epitomizing Mother Yashoda the You will be in THY presence enjoying THY where Bal Krishna stays like he stayed at nurtures SHRINATHJI and recreates THY Madhurya – Spiritual Beautitude during varied Leelas. The House of Nand & Yashoda. Six Daily Darshans.
Time, Distant and Financial constraints preclude us from making multiple trips to Bharat for a Pilgrimage. The 265 acres Campus of VRAJ of the Western World is an ideal YATRA DHAM for the devotees of the Western World. Located half way between Allentown & Harrisburg, Vraj is 25 Miles from Reading. It is at the distant of 2 hours from Manhattan via Holland Tunnel and Interstate 78 West. PA exit # 19 from the East and exit # 17 from the West lead to PA 183 North. At the first blinking light left turn leads you to SHRINATHJI in three minutes. The Campus has 62 self-contained lodging units. Most of them have four beds. The recently build modern units have five beds with specially designed Bathrooms with dedicated doors so that four pilgrims could simultaneously use them. (An ideal set up to get ready for 7.15a.m. Yamunaji Arti at Vishram Ghat and 7.30a.m. Mangala Darshan in Nandalaya.) There are five other Darshans at 10.30a.m., !2.00noon, 4.15p.m., 5.00p.m. and 6.30p.m. All devotees are requested to stay for Maha Prasad – the mid day meal between 1.00p.m.& 2.30p.m. for all pother times there is Alpahaar Suvidha. Many families have enjoyed their annual vacation in the devotional atmosphere at VRAJ. VRAJ is also an ideal venue for Hindu Weddings.
VRAJ 51 MANOR ROAD, SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, PA, 17972 – 9067 * (570) 754 7067 Visit us at ‘vraj.org’ PAGE 47 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 INSTANTKARMA revisited FRED STELLA In the role as Pracharak (Outreach Minister) karma follows you from lifetime to lifetime for my local temple I often speak to high via reincarnation. Those who do not hold to school and college students, many of whom this philosophy would claim that any effects are taking classes on World Religions or from actions taken previously in life will Anthropology. When it comes time for Q&A dissipate at death. there is one topic that’s bound to come up: Karma. It’s a word that has become a part In the Hindu Dharma there are several of the American lexicon and can be heard different kinds of karma: Parabdha (matured), in everyday conversation. Most often it’s Sanchita (stored), Agami (forthcoming) and used in a manner to indicate someone’s Vartamana (present). Yet they all stem from About the author: comeuppance. “Hey Dude, you’re in for the aforementioned principle of sowing and Fred Stella began his spiritual some real bad karma if you do that!” Well, reaping. Karma, whether it be considered search within the Hindu yes, The Dude just might be in for an “good” or “bad” is not delivered to us by a Dharma at the age of 15. He was initiated into his specific experience at some point in this or another master chess player in the sky. Ultimately, tradition over 25 years lifetime that one hopes would discourage when all is said and done we deserve all the ago. His training includes him from ever repeating whatever would bad hair days we get. time spent in temples and elicit such a warning from a from a bystander. ashrams both here and But beyond that superficial understanding of The most significant error I hear in my in India. His articles have this doctrine there is much that is not fully dealings with both educators and students is appeared in Hindu Vishwa, comprehended. the notion that karma is a form of fatalism; India Link and Hinduism that we are prisoners of our destiny. While Today magazines. He is an While there are various levels of it is true that matured karma is often ordained Pracharak and comprehending karma we can say that no characterized as “the arrow that has left serves in that role at the rational person disputes the very basic the bow” it is important to note that Hindu West Michigan Hindu definition that “What you sow you reap.” Dharma is very clear about our capacity to Temple. He has lectured That is, the actions we are performing now exercise free will and modify our future via extensively in both the US and India on the traditions of will influence how the future is experienced. the karmic seeds we sow today. Hinduism. He labors heartily So to students I ask why they are in school. in the field of religious Clearly, if they are in high school they want To illustrate this I ask for a show of hands tolerance. For almost 20 to create a future that will find them in indicating how many people in the room have years he has served as college or a reasonably good paying job. At ever played Candyland . Virtually every hand President of Interfaith the very least they are choosing to avoid the goes up. For anyone born in the US from the Dialogue Association. In complications that truancy would engender. ‘50s on Candyland is most likely the very 1st that role he hosts the radio We can easily see how past actions affected game that is learned and played. I then have program (also available on outcomes today. Where we differ from them imagine a room with 100 tables and 4 the web), “Common Threads.” most expressions of the Abrahamic religions players at each. I will instruct the person in E-mail: [email protected] centers around samara, the wheel of birth the north chair to begin the game by drawing Phone: 616-454-5960 and death. Hindu doctrine claims that your a card as they are placed on the board. Little
PAGE 48 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 do the players know, I have stacked the deck so that the the outcome of a poker game is decided by several factors; person in the north chair will be directed post haste through the cards counting for only about 20%. There are elements the Gumdrop Forest and the Molasses Swamp all the way to of psychology, skill, memory, discipline and patience that all Candy Castle; thus, winning the game. figure into the game. So there you go. Candyland is fatalism, poker is karma. Yes, we are dealt a hand of cards to play. And, So if you recall, once the cards are in place there is nothing in reality we are both the dealer and the player. Once we have that can affect the outcome. Out of 100 games played we the cards (circumstances) we have the ability to play them as will have 100 winners, and they will all be sitting in the north we see fit. While no metaphor is perfect, it never fails that I chairs. see students get that “aha” look on their faces.
Candyland is a game of absolute chance with no option for I recall one time in particular, I was lecturing to a group from modifying results. This is fatalism. But now let’s throw all a Christian college at the temple. After my explanation the
Dear Karma, I have a list of a few people you missed! those Candyland boards off the tables and have someone teacher expressed the most dumbfounded look and said, deliver a deck of cards to the lady or gentleman seated at “I’ve never had karma explained that way before.” I didn’t each of the north chairs of the same 100 tables. That person think anything about it until I learned later that she took is instructed to deal a hand of poker out to everyone at the great pleasure in comparing karma with opposing Christian table. But the cards must be dealt as they were delivered. principles. But she’d always defined it as pure fatalism. I’m No shuffling allowed. The players, once again, are not aware hoping I had to send her back to the drawing board. that I have stacked the deck in favor of the north chair. The games begin. Unfortunately, there are many Hindus who don’t understand that they are captains of their souls, so to speak. Many, While the north chairs do hold the best hands at the table especially those on the lower rungs of society, believe that they aren’t holding a royal flush, which beats everything they are locked into their destinies. There are also those all the time. But it’s clearly a hand that will beat all others who hold to a fatalistic view to exempt them from acts of held at the table. I ask again, what will the results be? It’s compassion. A woman I know in India was contemplating not uncommon for a couple of people to agree immediately adopting a child. She was advised by a friend that it would be that things will play out exactly like Candyland, with the improper to do so because it would interfere with the karma north chair winner taking all. But if I’m patient someone will of the child who was predestined to live as an orphan. I am always bring up the fact that in poker, it’s not always the pleased to say my experience has been that this is not a belief best hand that wins but the person who best plays the cards that is held by most Hindus. Appropriately improving the life held. People bluff. People read their competitors and make circumstances of others is always good karma for everyone assessments. In fact, professional gamblers will tell you that involved. PAGE 49 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 Mandir providing leadership, networking and serving as resource center
SUBMITTED BY: AKILA SEETHARAM INDURTI
The Content Team Mandir- the vast space that beckons Artharthi, Jignasu and Jnani. The Arta is (www.indianscriptures.com) Temples or Mandir or Devalayam in Sanskrit one who is distressed and who hopes to Shrivedant Foundation is the house of god. They are mostly found in be relieved of his sorrow and suffering PO Box 1390 areas of great scenic beauty and charm where by worshipping god. The Artharthi seeks Obote Road spiritual vibrations can be absorbed easily. success, fame and fortune and feels the lord Kisumu 40100 Kenya Mountains, valleys, river banks, sea shores can fulfill all his materialistic desires. The Mobile- +254737461439 – these are places where we come across Jignasu prays for higher wisdom dissatisfied [email protected] temples. Basically temples are designed to with the pleasures of the world. The Jnani [email protected] bring both man and god together and the having attained self-illumination seeks the vast spaces that one finds inside temples lord without expecting anything in return. He enables man to stay in communion with the experiences bliss throughout. All these four divine as he is transported to a different kinds of devotees visit temples for one reason realm far away from the mundane world at or the other. Thus we find devotees going to god with a wish list, some on a thanksgiving trip, yet others to enjoy the spiritual vibrations emanating from the sacred precincts of the temple and some to appreciate the grandeur and beauty of the architecture and the idol. Whatever be the reason, Hinduism enjoins every adherent to make periodic trips to temples and places of pilgrimage to recharge one’s spiritual batteries. The sonorous chants of the mantras and the poojas performed soothe and calm agitated minds and lift one’s dull spirits. The sights and smells emanating from the sanctum sanctorum are all designed to invigorate the senses and transport our least for the time he is there in the sacred thoughts upward. There is thus something precincts. It is communal space as the entire magical about the ambience in the temples community congregates in a temple but it and you feel connected to the Invisible also represents private space, as it fulfils an Supreme Power that governs the Universe. individual need. Our Scriptures identify four (Ref: Verse 16, Chapter VII of the Gita) kinds of devotees according to their attitude and disposition. A centre that fulfils many needs A temple need not serve as a spiritual The devotee types destination alone. The vast spaces inside the There are four types of devotees, namely, temple along with its mandaps and columns Arthi, Arta (आर㔤 meaning distressed), can aid in carrying out so many tasks. In that
PAGE 50 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 sense they are not merely sacred spaces but they serve as by traditional temples too as people visit temples not as secular spaces also. When we visit any ancient temple, we worshippers alone but would like to seek solutions to real life can see the celebration of life unabashedly in the statues, problems. This would make temples largely relevant and can paintings or architecture. Love, romance, birth, death, attract people from all walks of life. There is great potential if celebrations – all these form the themes of the temple art. only our mandirs were to tap into this missing link. Our ancients never divided the spiritual and the mundane into water tight compartments. Every aspect of life was Education should be a great idea to focus upon --not celebrated and no topic was taboo. And that is the reason academic or religious education but moral education which is why the function of the temple extended beyond being woefully lacking in the regular curriculum these days. We find a moral guardian of the masses. Since time immemorial, the sorry state of devotees coming into temples but littering they have been centres around which the arts, community the area where Prasad is served with leftover food and empty celebrations and economy have flourished. Temples have plates. One visit to any pilgrim town like Tirupati or Tiruttani served as the hub to celebrate events like marriages, birth of will reinforce this pathetic situation. That is because we have a child, anna prashnam or offering the first solid food to the failed to educate our people on the right and wrong, the basic child, Vidyarambham or initiation into letters, other significant etiquettes of life. A temple can be an amazing place where life events, religious festivals, dance and music festivals like these are spoken about on a regular basis. Over time there is the Chidambaram Dance Festival or Konark Festival. Temples bound to be some change in the thinking of the masses. At have also served as venues where succession of dynasties has a time when the social media is shrinking distances, temples taken place. Goddess Chamundi has served as the tutelary can also pitch in by maintaining a bureau for marriage, deity of the Mysore Maharajahs and she is the presiding employment, etc. Temples can also serve as places where deity of Mysore and an inseparable part of the palace lore. socially relevant contemporary issues can be debated; these Apart from these, economic activities also took place in the can be telecast live in the local channels to attract more temples; Hindu temples have thus served as a nucleus of all participants for forthcoming ventures. Temples can also serve important functions in various spheres of society in ancient as nodal centres where medical camps or screening programs and medieval India. Burton Stein writes in the ‘The state, the can take place. temple and agriculture development’ in The Economic Weekly Annual of February 1961 that South Indian temples managed Temples are not centres where people visit to do business regional development function, such as irrigation projects, with the divine, rather it can be an amazing resource centre land reclamation, post-disaster relief and recovery. These where people are taught to live right and the onus lies with activities were paid for by the donations they collected from those who build and steer temples. Children, youth, women, devotees. Temples also managed lands endowed to it by its the aged – there are various segments among our Hindu devotees upon their death. They would provide employment populace that would like to use their weekly visits to temples to the poorest. Some temples had large treasury, with gold to pursue more meaningful lives. It requires creativity, and silver coins, and these temples served as banks. commitment and campaign on the part of temple committees to tap into these resources, to focus on inner engineering so The Contemporary Scene that people can learn the art of living well. With such a rich background, temples in the contemporary age should provide leadership and networking apart from The Shiv Temple in Kibigori near Kenya is a good example of emerging as resource centres. Various organizations like a temple which offers its premises to community outreach the Ramakrishna Mission, ISKCON use their temple space activities like feeding two hundred local African children imaginatively and have programs that attract the youth. each week. The temple supports the local community to Combining service initiatives deftly with contemporary topics help them increase their earning opportunities by offering that aim to de-stress lives, they offer short term courses training programs in various skills. The temple is managed by that help the participants in personality development, yoga, the Shrivedant Foundation which is a non-profit organization spiritual entrepreneurship, value based management, etc. based in Kenya, dedicated to spreading the message of Vedic by offering practical solutions. This should be undertaken Literature worldwide. PAGE 51 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 who is hindu? WHO IS HINDU?
SADHVI BHAGAWATI SARASWATI, Ph.D Countless people across the world ask me: on science, math, music, architecture and “Have you converted to Hinduism?” The medicine. question is understandable. After all, people don’t often behold an American woman of The “religion” of Hinduism, if one wanted to Jewish ancestry draped in the saffron robes attempt to neatly box it up, could be said to of a Hindu renunciant. include several components.
However, although the question is simple, The first of these is inclusivity. Hinduism the answer is complex. Hinduism does not excludes almost nothing. The arms of convert. It does not exist in a box with borders Hinduism are immeasurably long and embrace About the author: and boundaries. There are more differences innumerable names, forms and concepts of Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, between lineages within Hinduism than the Divine. However, worshippers of varying PhD is a graduate of there are between Hinduism and some other Divine manifestations all agree on one Stanford University and has religions. essential component: the Supreme Reality lived at Parmarth Niketan is infinite, omniscient, omnipresent, and Ashram in Rishikesh, India, If one were to ask several Hindus, “What is knowable by all names. for nearly 20 years. She is the most fundamental tenet of Hinduism?” President of Divine Shakti or “How is God understood in Hinduism?” As God is infinite and all of creation a Foundation, a charitable one would get a wide range of equally viable, manifestation of the same Creator, Hindus organization bringing equally legitimate answers. In fact, two of see the whole world as one family. In fact, education, vocational the most fundamental teachings of Hinduism the scriptures state clearly: Vasudhaiv training, upliftment and are “Let all the noble thoughts come from Kutumbakam, or “The world is one family.” empowerment programs to women and children. Sadhviji all directions,” and “The Truth is one but the Hindu prayers are prayers for all; Hindus is also Secretary-General of sages call it by different names.” don’t pray for Hindus or Indians. Rather, the Global Interfaith WASH Hindus pray, Alliance, director of the So, what exactly is Hinduism, then, that world famous International is open enough to embrace an American स셍핇 भवन्酁 सुखिनः | स셍핇 सन्酁 निरामयाः | Yoga Festival, and Managing sanyasi? स셍핇 भ饍राि पश्न्酁 | मा कश्椿द दःु खभाग भवेत ् || Editor of the 11-volume Sarve bhavantu sukhinah Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Nowhere in the Vedas – the foundational Sarve santu niraamayaah compiled by India Heritage texts of Hindu theology – does one find Sarve bhadraani pashyantu Research Foundation. She the word Hindu. Rather, “Hindu” is actually was officially ordained Maakaschit duhkha bhaag bhavet the name given to the people living beyond into the order of Sanyas the banks of the Sindhu or the Indus River, (monastic vows) by her guru It means, “May all be happy, may all be in what was known as the Indus valley H.H. Pujya Swami Chidanand healthy, may all behold that which is good civilization. Hindus refer to their religion as Saraswatiji in 2000. and auspicious, may no one suffer.” Email: [email protected] Sanatan Dharma, the eternal way of life. This way of life encompasses everything from a Another aspect is that of a personal philosophical understanding of the nature of relationship with God. Regardless of the the universe and our role in it, to treatises PAGE 52 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 name, form in which a Hindu believes, he or she is encouraged relegated only to worship or prayer. Rather, Hinduism informs to have a personal connection with that particular form. The every aspect of our lives from the moment we awaken to the God of Hinduism is a God who is knowable, approachable, moment we sleep. There are shastras and sutras for nearly infinite and yet fully prepared to incarnate in material form, every component of life, as well as for architecture, medicine, a God to whom our food, water, earnings and lives are science, math and music. dedicated. Hinduism, in the words of Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji, One common misconception of Hinduism is that it is “is not a weekend business.” A Hindu’s actions are governed polytheistic. With so many images, it is understandable that by spiritual laws in the home and in the workplace as well as people would assume that each image is a separate God. in the temple. However, Hinduism is very much a monotheistic religion, in which that one, infinite Supreme Reality is manifest in all of Another central and unique aspect of Hinduism is emphasis creation. The first line of the Isopanishads reminds us: on the divine feminine, or Shakti, as the essential energy and force through which creation, sustenance and dissolution are ईशावास्मिदं स셍픂 यत्कञ् जगत्या जगत ् | performed. Worship of the Divine Mother – whether in Her nurturing, compassionate form or in Her fierce, fiery form – is Ishaavaasyam idam sarvam a common thread that weaves through the entire tapestry of yat kim ca jagatyam jagat Hinduism.
It means the entire universe is pervaded by the divine. That However, it is not only the Feminine in Her ethereal, celestial same all-pervasive Supreme Reality manifests in infinite forms role that is worshipped, it is the feminine in her human form. with infinite names. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna explains We are exhorted by the scriptures to hold women in the beautifully, “By whatever name and form the devotee highest ideal: “Wherever women are adored and respected, worships me with love, I appear to the devotee in that form.” there the Gods are happy.”
For this reason, Hindu practices emphasize ahimsa or As news reports cover the rape and abuse of girls and nonviolence toward humans, animals and Mother Nature. A women throughout India, people misconstrue this as large majority of Hindus are vegetarians, avoid leather, pray a subjugation of the female endorsed by Hindu to and for Mother Nature, and have rituals surrounding the culture. The abuse of women is a societal ways and times that one may pick flowers, fruits or otherwise evil which must be swiftly eradicated. injure a living plant. However, it couldn’t be further from the very tenets of Stemming from the tenet of an all-pervasive God, one of the Hinduism. core components of the Hindu tradition is service, seva, or karma yoga. Hinduism teaches us to see God in the poor, sick, and needy; the tradition is filled with stories of God appearing as an unexpected guest or a beggar.
Most Hindu organizations have large social service programs engaged in a wide range of charitable activities. Service is seen as one of the highest forms of worship.
As the traditional name of Hinduism is Sanatan Dharma or “eternal way of life” the tenets and principles of Hinduism are not
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Strengthening Hindu Family Kamlesh Kapur
Getting married- staying married- the problem of mismatched was true too! Ladies Sangeet falls in the same category of expectations and the need for guidance in the context of irrelevance. Is it relevant in this culture and in this age? Dharma The institution of marriage has evolved in all societies in Strength of the family depends on the stability of the order to give a stable and safe environment for raising marriage. In the last four decades, Indians as a community children. Marriage was also devised as the institutional prospered. Their children were well educated and well framework for providing the laws of inheritance of property. placed. Temples were built and the community thought their The institution also creates an opportunity to have a loving problems were over. Contrarily, the problems multiplied and long companionship for spiritual growth. In modern cultures, became complex and insurmountable. The issues of prom, this is not happening. Where the children are involved, dating in high school and sleepovers jolted the parents. What broken marriages literally place an enormous emotional and happened to their Hindu values? Simply put, it was never psychological burden on the children trapped in the legal discussed as a serious subject. Dharma as a subject was never system. Very often they suffer physical abuse as well. taught, cultural osmosis was limited to Bollywood movies. A failed marriage is a very well established bane on western The problem of marriage of Mount Everest proportion has cultures. It is increasingly happening to young people of been the single most baffling challenge for us. Should it be Indian origin. Scared of the possibility of a failed marriage, arranged, within culture, within religion or be replaced by many of these young boys and girls are happily staying single custom of living together? Kids’ choice is to find their own by choice. Seems like a good choice, except that such short partners. When everything falls in place; there are elaborate term relationships which are at best unhealthy (read fatal) wedding ceremonies extending from four to seven days and and at worst pointless. costing six-figure sums to impress the people who could care less and who would forget the whole hoopla in the Mismatch of attitudes and expectations next 48 hours. Some shenanigans continue the next day of Boys of Indian origin dream of a stable marriage as their the marriage. These customs are from the times when the grandparents and parents have had. They also have this belief girls had hardly any physical contact with the opposite sex, that an Indian wife living in America sticks to the cultural let alone the groom. We like to believe that the vice versa norms of India. That is a naiveté expectation. Girls who are PAGE 54 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
born and brought up here are independent be done before and not after the marriage. professionals and want to be treated as American females. Girls feel that both sets Vedic marriage ceremony especially the of grandparents should be a part of the Saptapadi part provides an in-built mechanism grandchildren’s life though unobtrusively. for self-correction and rejuvenation Right These realities somehow are not part of from the remotest past, Hindu texts refer to the outlook of Indian boys. They tend to wife as an equal partner. The terms used are make unilateral decisions often without full Ardhangini (half of the self) and Sahadharmini disclosure, and when they try to impose (companion on the righteous path). As many these decisions, the marriages collapse. of the marriages do not last through difficult times, the Indian Diaspora may revise the The Vedic ceremony has very sound advice About the author: ceremonies and consider other options. In and quite a few nice guidelines but then The author has several the phrase, ‘through thick and thin’ thin is these are meant for both partners to follow. publications to her credit, Suppressed smoldering grudges at some out. Therefore the simplest solution that including her two recent point surface and when they do, all love and comes to my mind is court marriage. To books: ‘Portraits of a Nation- respect are gone. Thus, varying expectation validate the marriage, three hundred people History of Ancient India’ and of both parties is one of the causes of failed are not needed nor the stars, the moon, Agni ‘Hindu Dharma- A Teaching marriages. It should be remembered all the and all other Devas; especially because the Guide’. time that the relation between married marriages are so fragile and the legal system E-mail: [email protected] couple is a legal relation and there is no such is tilted in favor of the girls. All that the girl thing as everlasting love or a perennial flow needs to mutter or utter is abuse and the boy of goodwill. It is as stable as each one makes along with the parents is on the street. Many it to be consciously and diligently. of these young boys reach the point of filing bankruptcy. Some have. All parties need to remember that modern women are not what their grandmothers The Vedic texts describe various types of were. Boys and girls are on different footings marriages. If the couple is already living and with different expectations. together, in the eyes of the nature and the Devas, they are married. This type of marriage Assertion, levels of authority and spirituality is known as Gandharva Vivaha allowed by Critical evaluation of the problem and the scriptures but given the lowest merit. If solutions require that both sides are brought the finality of the Saptapadi is considered on the table. One of the issues that need trivial, then Gandharva marriage is the ideal resolution is how far Indian cultural norms solution. and values should be allowed to play a part. Laudable as they are, if these values are not a Finally, for each situation, there is a unique part of the upbringing, they cannot suddenly mix of honor, devotion and surrender. Every be a foundation of the marriage. The issue issue does not require a final statement, knee to settle beforehand is if Indian values are jerk reaction or dragged out arguments. Two a baggage or a bonus for each party. Each adults got married, they handle their jobs and, side should take the blinders off and do the they might as well handle their own marriage. introspection to find where each party stands Saptapadi pledges and not the rings work as in this respect. Establishing a proper identity counselling service. Dharma as one’s own with prevalent culture and at the same time sense of Vivek serves as counselling service. being rooted in the Indian heritage needs to
PAGE 55 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 collection of poems
DR. MITTUR RAMPRASAD
HINDU DHARMA Judge it will not other religious beliefs and other sects of faiths Engages in discussion of honoring appreciating diverse truths Sculpted is Hinduism in stone with basic principles Hindu sects are myriads but exists side by side in just harmony Humanity as a whole stands on its divine morals Sowing the seeds of perpetual peace in life's mortal journey. Splice it anyway heavenly truth is inner essence Necessity is not there to glorify with special reverence. Smritis, guidance for living are volumes of books of laws Essence is same meanings are many for individuals to draw Evolved by Srutis it is religion of divine revelation Changes to modify on context of time to suit the Moment Absence of any one author it is intuitional instruction Rules to follow in every breath to uphold Dharma's intent. Vedas and Purans are scriptures of Almighty divine Source of solace for all times like rain and sunshine. Ramayan and Mahabharata are expanse of Vedas’ inner essence Explained are universal truths in stories of reverence Eternal truth of God revealed to Rishis by thought Gospel of Yoga BHAGAVAD Gita emblem of divinity Sprinkled all over earth by Seers of spiritual hearts Spiritual guide for bliss of Mokasha for all humanity. Spiritual experiences of Rishis of yore is Hinduism It is not just an embodiment of any kind of idealism. Puranas Agamas Darsanas add to Hindu philosophy Sutras Bhasyas Vrittis Vartikas Upanishads confers legacy Scriptures of Hinduism is revelations from beyond Shubhashithas Kavyas Natakas Alankars holy literatures Teachings of the creator celestial it is to understand Entirety of writings enlightening Hindu cultural scriptures. Preaching it is not of any one Messiah or Prophet Lasting truth of divine for every moment every context. Scriptures to melt darkness ignorance of human mind Source to attain perfection of immortality of eternal kind Embodiment of divine are Vedas’ eternal knowledge Resource to become one with Brahman Parabrahman No beginning no end always alive on life's every page Divine ways means methods to nurture individual Atman. Hinduism is script to learn to experience life on earth Defining designing paths deliberately for life after death. Dharma holds the whole world in harmonious unity Divine law woven in unique cosmic love of divinity Hindu Dharma has no ISM it is purely collection of divine laws Observed it should be in deeds in creeds in reality Free to choose to practice to experience to live to engross Refuge it is for all for peace happiness and serenity. Description of multitude of views, opinions of life as a whole Showing diverse ways to realize Brahman in one's inner soul. Dharma brings closer to oneness with God almighty Paves puristic path for attainment of spirituality Evolved over years through spirituality of saints and Sages Ways and means it is to build world of lasting peace Built is Hindu Philosophy on texture of sacred knowledge Steps to climb to the highest mantle of eternal bliss. Unbiased fundamentals resists all other idealistic influence Gospel it is of oneness with invisible Brahman's radiance. Hindu Dharma is truth based on Srutis’ theme Depth it has of various imagination of God supreme Religion of freedom embracing diverse paths to salvation Composed it is in the words of divine consciousness Another philosophical means to end in soul's emancipation Bring it will in every breath love of divine's awareness. Not based on any one set of dogmas or any one teaching Scriptures are many to choose from searching life's meaning. Blessed is Hindu Dharma with countless spiritual souls Each adding virtues showing ways to divine goals Instilling source of communion with Supreme Being Opening minds hearts souls to hear divine calling.
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SONG OF DIVINE (BHAGAVAD GITA) OH BENEVOLENT LORD
Song of divine showers sunshine Oh Benevolent Lord Essence of Vedas in every grain I entreat to be heard Rejuvenates heart and makes it shine Seeking your guidance Spreads joy as in a desert during heavy rain. Offering I am obeisance. Glory of Gita is beyond description Esoteric doctrines reverberates loud Fill our hearts with devotion Spoken word of God in transcription Fill our souls with illumination Sweet and simple with truth endowed Lead us to our salvation Show your benediction. Each word in itself is profound without end Reveals glorious virtues of mysterious God Oh benevolent Lord Showing the mortal souls a spiritual wend Bless us with accord Shares new facets of truth and more to prod. Sanctify divine chord Shower us sacrosanct word. Emanated from God's lips is song of divine Embodies melody of heaven in plain verse Take away our ignorance Encrypted with secrets guiding us to refine We seek your providence Engages thoughts about cosmic law in terse. Omnipresence is your presence Divine light of our conscience. Basics to explore the song of divine is reverence Don't matter what color creed gender or doctrine Oh benevolent Lord All it needs is full devotion to God with deference Be our eternal guard Show he will to his devotees the way to his shrine. Sing we will your praise Beginning every sunrise. Being aware God is pervasive begins the journey Embodiment of truth, bliss, consciousness is God Take away our temptations Knowing everything belongs to God brings harmony Instill in us your divinations Working and surrendering self to him will bring a nod. Share your myriad of forms We chant your divine name. Bow to Narayana the supreme deity of universe Who is extolled by all other deities with hymns Oh benevolent Lord By Bhakti Jnana Dhyana invoke him singing praise Bless us life’s concord Bestow He will whole life with Moksha to the brim. Accept our salutations Offer we will prostrations. Surrender the soul to Narayana in every breath Find you will the secret to the ultimate liberation O’ Almighty instill your values Worship him in sincerity to see the sanctified truth Fill our minds with virtues Wake up you will in the world of bliss of salvation Take away our weakness Lead us from our darkness. Become devotee of Sriman Narayana with devotion Sail you will on the smooth waves of the life's ocean Utter His name with love He will calm your commotion Ecstasy will be in your reach in the path that's chosen. Author Email: [email protected] PAGE 57 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
BHARAT SEVASHRAM SANGH AND THE TRINIDAD SEVASHRAM SANGHA SWAMI PARAMESHANANDA
“The goal of human life is Self-Realisation... of the people to build a strong India. Today it comprises of indeed religion is self-discipline and adherence to truth.” over 100 ashrams, 450 “Milan mandirs” and hundreds of (First utterance of Acharya Srimat Swami Pranavanandaji service and educational projects, all under the direction of Maharaj after he received enlightenment.) 500 BSS monks within India. Internationally the Sangha has established branches in Bangladesh, Nepal, Fiji, Trinidad, The Trinidad Sevashram Sangha is a spiritual, philanthropic Guyana, England, and Canada and at New York, Chicago, and charitable organization with a firm and enduring New Jersey, Maryland, Minnesota and Los Angeles within commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged. the United States of America. Today the Bharat Sevashram This guiding principle has enabled us to promote sympathy, Sangha is one of India’s leading monastic organizations. tolerance, good feeling and unity among the followers of different faiths, so as to evolve a high sense of religious On September 11, 1950 a cultural mission, headed by Swami and social goodwill and peaceful co-existence amongst all Advaitanandajee Maharaj, sailed for the West Indies. Also members of our multicultural society. present was Swami Purnanandajee Maharaj, Brahmachari Rajkrishna and Brahmachari Mritunjoy. On December 28, Our parent body, the Bharat Sevashram Sangha (BSS) is a 1950 the ship reached its destination, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. spiritual brotherhood of monks and selfless workers devoted From here they started preaching and travelled the length to the service of humanity. It was founded in 1917 by and breadth of our country reviving Hinduism in the west by Archarya Srimat Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaj. Archarya spreading the traditional Hindu message of universal love Srimat Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaj was born as a blessing and devotion to humanity. They preached about the cultural of Lord Shiva in 1896 in the month of Maghi in Bajitpur, now heritage of India along with the Vedic Sandhya, Havan and in Bangladesh. the Heroic Guru Arti. The visiting monks found it amazing how the people in Trinidad managed to maintain their religion “Bharat” means India; “Seva” means physical and spiritual without any support from any cultural or ascetic background service; “Ashram” implies a system based on ideals and to keep their faith and religion alive. practice of renunciation, self-control, truth, continence and honest labour; and “Sangha” means a fellowship or The Bharat Sevashram Sangha, and by extension the Trinidad brotherhood. The great Acharya propagated practical Sevashram Sangha lays emphasis on spirituality; embracing spirituality in preference to theoretical philosophy. Though devotion, knowledge, meditation and selfless service. the literature on his teaching is not elaborate, the essential Through spiritual harmony the Sangha promotes unity truths have been codified as the “Sangha Geeta”, a book amongst all sects and faiths. The Bharat Sevashram Sangha that offers adequate guidance to his followers in achieving has received Consultative Status with the United Nations. It self-realization. He continued to work tirelessly till the last is also a member of the steering committee of the United day of his life (January 8, 1941), awakening, uniting and Nations Environment Protection Agency (UNEP) and has also strengthening the people of India. adopted the 2015 Millennium Goals of the UN.
Bharat Sevashram Sangha, with the goal of universal “This is an era of Universal Awakening, Universal Realisation, emancipation, has been tirelessly working for the upliftment Universal Conciliation, Universal Emancipation.” of the downtrodden and the neglected sections of our (The Supreme Realisation of Acharya Srimat Swami society. Swami Pranavanandaji wanted this organization to Pranavanandaji Maharaj) strive tirelessly and selflessly to awaken and unite all sections
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All World Gayatri Pariwar Www.awgp.org Sponsored by Gayatri Gnyan Mandir, IL, USA
Science not guided by spirituality became self-
destructive and a liability rather than asset . Religion isolating itself from Science became superstition.
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The 4th Hindu Mandir Priest Conference (HMPC) UTSAV CHAKRABARTY
About the author: Hindu Mandir Priests’ Conference (HMPC) is Public Relations Coordinator, an initiative of the Hindu Mandir Executives’ Following Deep Prajjwalan and Vedic World Hindu Council of Conference. The mission of HMEC is to chanting led by all priests in attendance, Pt. America (VHPA) provide leadership to the Hindu-American Raj Suryanarayanan, the religious committee Ph.: 732-744-0851 community by encouraging Hindu temples chairperson of MN Hindu Temple, delivered Web: www.vhp-america.org across North America to nourish, protect, the welcome address and set the conference Facebook: and sustain Hindu Dharma. The 4th annual goals and objectives. Pundit Roopnauth https://www.facebook.com/ HMPC was hosted by Hindu Temple of Sharma, Chief Priest of Ram Mandir of vishwa.sampark Minnesota from May 15–16, 2015. Mississauga, Canada, delivered the keynote address on ‘Hinduism for the new age’. He This year, over 55 pundits, adults, and highlighted the importance of consistency youth delegates attended this conference, of messages translated by the priests. representing various He also emphasized the need of samuhik Mandirs and Hindu (congregational) worship in the temples. Dr. organizations across Shashikant Sane, a founding trustee of MN the North America. Hindu Temple, summarized the session by The conference was emphasizing the need to establish strong organized into 4 educational programs in the temples, learning sessions. The topics from positive practices of communication, were consistent with interfaith dialog and Fund raising from each the HMPC’s objective: other from the entire temple community Sustainability and and implement those positive things in our Advancement of Sanatan Dharma by respective temples. making the modes of worship meaningful and relevant for the younger generation of Mr. Vishal Agarwal shared the teaching Hindus. The four sessions were: Role and curriculum used for 350 Students of Hindu relationship of Priests, Sustaining Hindu American Temple School (HATS) over the past temples, Community links, and Hindu 5 years and displayed all teaching materials- American Youth viewpoint. -the materials would be available in e-book
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format in the coming months. Shri Raj Balasubramanian and Temple, Lemont, IL; and Shri S Venkatacharyulu of SV Temple, Shrimati Anandi Balasubramanian, trustees and past chairs of Pittsburgh were the recipients of this Award for the year the Religious Committee of MN Hindu Temple, coordinated 2015. In addition, Shri Kandamangalam Gopala Deekshidhar the two sessions dedicated to the priests. The priests was recognized for his spiritual service to the Hindu Temple from the MN Hindu Temple and other MN temples made of Minnesota. presentations. Pt. Murali Bhattar, Chief Priest of MN Hindu Temple, emphasized that the priests need to be tolerant In the concluding session of the conference, Sanjay Mehta towards devotees and priests should worship with utmost of Pittsburgh presented the summary of the conference devotion for the benefit of the entire community. presentations and talks and action items to work on: • Develop a mechanism to build constant Pt. Gowtham Narayan very eloquently described the role communication amongst temple management and priests to of Vedic chanting in temples and also gave a practical share experiences and best practices. demonstration. Shri Parthan Gomadam elaborated the • Structure Orientation: Organize English language similarities between Sanskrit and Tamil in Vaishnav worship. and Communication workshop for priests. Nagalatha Murali, wife of the chief priest, at Hindu Temple of • Prepare a play book / short manual / guide which Minnesota summarized the shared experiences from all the contain common answers delivered by priests to the temple wives of the temple priests of balancing priest life style and visitors, thereby maintaining the consistency of messages. orientation into American lifestyle. She praised the support • Initiate a think tank to define and build a future and cooperation priest families receive from devotees. generation priests development program in North America.
Professor Rambachan from St. Olaf College MN commented in his Key Note Address on the 2nd day of the Conference, “The challenge our new generation of Hindus may face is not as much attraction towards other religions but becoming less interested in their own religious traditions.”
Annette Kurek, whose adopted son from India attends HATS (Hindu American Temple School ), expressed her happiness that her son attended and enjoyed the school and demonstrated how thorough puppet show stories can powerfully deliver moral messages to the children attending Convener of HMPC, Sant Gupta of Durga Temple, VA, and temple youth programs. Padma Kumar of Sanskrit Bharati Pundit Murali Bhattar thanked all delegates, Minneapolis (CA) addressed in Sanskrit highlighting the significance Hindu Temple volunteers and the organizers for a successful and value of learning Sanskrit at the premises of the Hindu 4th Hindu Mandir Priest Conference. temples. Young Attorney Harsh Voruganti of Hindu American Foundation, VA talked about safety and security needs for Hindu Mandir Priests’ Conference is an initiative of World the temples and shared the guidelines published by Hindu Hindu Council of America (VHPA). It was established in American Foundation. 1970 and incorporated in the state of New York in 1974, as an independent, nonprofit, tax- exempt and volunteer- One of the highlights of the conference was to establish based charitable organization serving the needs of Hindu a new tradition of honoring distinguished senior priests, community in USA. It aims to build a dynamic and vibrant for their dedicated service to the Hindu community for Hindu society rooted in the eternal values of Dharma and more than two decades, by conferring on them the title of inspired by the lofty ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, i.e. the “Archaka Bhushana”. Shri Koteshwaran Gurukkal of Ganesh entire creation is one family. Temple, Nashville, TN; Shri Krishnarajan Devarajan of Hindu
PAGE 61 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 hindu chaplaincy
HINDU UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA, ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Over last 5 decades the population of Americans following Chaplains (APC) has established standards of practice for eastern traditions and religions has dramatically increased. various chaplaincy settings. Chaplains are certified byAPC Along with that a large number of temples, Sunday schools as board certified chaplains (BCC) or associate certified (Bal Vihars) and various religious organizations have been chaplains (ACC) according to established national standards. established to cater to the spiritual needs of this community. These standards also include 72 credit hours of graduate studies from an accredited University beyond undergraduate As a community Hindus also encounter issues related to education. illness, old age, infirmity, divorce, natural and personal disasters and bereavement. In India, extended families, the Several years ago the Hindu Mandir Executive Council support of religious groups associated with one’s family, (HMEC) along with the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) ashrams and other socio-spiritual institutions provide launched an initiative to establish an infrastructure to necessary support and assistance in such situations. facilitate Hindu American clinical chaplaincy. This effort has However in the fast paced American society many of these resulted in the establishment of a Hindu accrediting agency traditional support systems are either inaccessible or do not along with a Hindu religious acknowledgement body. exist. Moreover, time constraints from heavy work schedules, family discontinuity (separation, divorce, loss of connection There is a need to establish seminaries which provide graduate with relatives), community ruptures, geographic distance etc. level education. It is also necessary that these seminaries enhance the impact of these realities, particularly for second, are accredited by appropriate agencies. Hindu University third, and future generations. of America (HUA) and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) have partnered to establish various certificate programs to provide In the western society a trained chaplain (Spiritual and training for those wishing to serve as volunteer chaplains. Religious Caregiver) assists those undergoing crisis in finding The university also offers graduate level education leading meaning and comfort through counseling and caring on the to Masters and Doctorate degrees in related fields. Swami basis of traditions and spiritual practices of the person’s Sarvaanand, Ph.D. who is a board certified chaplain of Hindu religious faith. Their training consists of counselling skills, a faith and a member of APC recently developed and offered solid foundation in clinical psychology, along with knowledge the first Training Course for American Hindu Leaders to of philosophy, and spiritual practices of his or her particular religion. Depending on the level of training these chaplains serve either in volunteer or professional capacity.
A variety of institutions like hospitals and healthcare centers, educational institutions, military etc. rely on professional chaplains trained in various faiths. In order to achieve the status of a professional chaplain it is necessary to obtain clinical training as a chaplain from an accredited institution. There are a variety of institutions in other faiths like Christianity; Judaism etc. that provide the necessary framework to provide accreditation to seminaries training Swami Sarvaananda, PhD, one of the main teachers of the chaplains in those faiths. Association of Professional course, is seen here outside LOTUS: the Light of the Universe Shrine to all faiths located on the Ashram grounds.
PAGE 62 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 become Certified Volunteer Chaplains of the Hindu Faith. The Prarima Dharm was the first Hindu chaplain to serve the course was presented at Satchidananda Ashram-Yogaville, Department of Defense. Till her appointment, Hinduism, with in Buckingham, VA, in Jan. 2015. HUA also offers an online nearly a billion adherents worldwide was the largest of the course which provides an introduction to Hindu chaplaincy. world faiths not represented by a chaplain in the US military. Joining the Army in 2006 as a Christian chaplain, Dharm Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is education to teach returned to her family's religious roots during her service, pastoral care to clergy and others. CPE is the primary method eventually becoming the Army's first Hindu chaplain. of training hospital and hospice chaplains and spiritual care providers in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Several Universities in US such as Princeton University, Australia and New Zealand. It brings theological students Duke University, Harvard University, Georgetown University and ministers of all faiths (pastors, priests, rabbis, imams and etc. have appointed Hindu Chaplains to cater to the needs others) into supervised encounter with persons in crisis. In of students of Hindu faith. As Hindu chaplains they also order to serve as a chaplain it is necessary to undergo CPE participate in a variety of religious, spiritual, educational, training (1-4 credits) from an accredited institution. administrative and social activities within and outside the university. Rambhoru Dasi is another Hindu chaplain who is a Board Certified Chaplain (APC) and a Supervisor Candidate certified Over decades a variety of organizations have worked by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). to establish endowed Hindu Studies chairs at various She has developed an urban interfaith CPE program. VITAS universities. Now it is critical that similar efforts are Hospice is one of the organizations that provide interfaith undertaken to establish Hindu chaplain positions at various CPE training at various locations throughout USA. institutions.
PAGE 63 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
WHAT IS HMEC AND WHAT DO THE MANDIR EXECUTIVES ACCOMPLISH?
Compiled by: Sharma Tadepalli, Abhaya Asthana, Sanjay Mehta, Vipul Patel, Sant Gupta, Umesh Shukla and Surendra Pandey.
Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati
Introduction Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswathi said that these Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati, distinguished Vedanta conferences (HMEC) will help us identify what is needed and teacher and spiritual head of Arsha Vidya Ashrams worldwide, what we can do. There is a need for doing seva, which can be prompted the formation of a core group of temple executives in any form. We the Hindu Communities embrace the concept to articulate as a single entity on behalf of Hindu mandirs. that all are one, and that the entire cosmos is interconnected The movement started in 1998 with the first Dharma Sansad and interdependent. Hinduism has been facing many at Arsha Vidya Gurukulam with the blessings of the Dharma challenges, hence it is realized and also recognized that the Acharyas who declared that the most effective way to bring temple executives should support each other and present the Hindu Community together will be to first bring the Hinduism on a unified platform with collective voice. Mandirs together. Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) of America took a lead for this effort resulting in the annual Hindu Mandir What is HMEC? Executives’ Conference under the mentorship and guidance The Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference (HMEC) is of Pujya Swami Dayanand Saraswati. focused on developing a network of all Executives from the North America and Caribbean Hindu Mandirs (temples) and PAGE 64 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 institutions. Mandirs outside India have North America population with second to be centers of teaching and learning of generation is largely not involved in Hindu Dharmic shaastras, philosophy, mandirs. Also, when we look at the traditions, rituals and culture. The HMEC trends for the Hindu population we see provides a platform for the Mandir that in the coming decades the overall executives to share their knowledge, population will asymptotically stabilize wisdom and best practices so as to around 4-5 million. The startling thing is build on each other’s experiences and that the population of the 2nd and 3rd achievements. The conferees explore gen will also start to decline due to late avenues of expanding institutional marriages, fewer children, divorce, and roles in meeting the changing needs of mixed marriages. At the same time the current and next-gen of Hindus and to population of the elders will increase. ensure the sustainability of Dharma. This scenario is exact opposite of the demographics in India. This will be the future if we do not take HMEC Objectives steps to correct it. A course correction is definitely required The HMEC is not just a conference of executive leadership of to arrest this declining trend. So that is why HMEC’s strong mandirs and various Hindu organizations but a movement to focus is on the needs of second/subsequent generations. unite Hindus across North America and Caribbean as a strong Mandirs are the key in this focus, networking, shraddha vibrant group that would help sustain Santana Dharma for and legacy are the pillars that will sustain, strengthen Hindu decades to come. Our objectives include nurturing Hindu pride Dharma in North America and Caribbean. and the Hindu way of life, better interaction, connectivity and
networking among various Hindu organizations. We also hope HMEC Movement: Ten-Year Journey to develop a strong bond between generations of Hindus and The HMEC events are primarily geared at exploring mandirs through knowledge and education of Hinduism and avenues to enhance and strengthen the Hindu community by integrating them early into mandir executive leadership. through temples drawing community leaders and mandir Other objectives include enhancing social outreach, provide representatives each year at various venues in USA, Canada temple management tools, and offer training and knowledge and now in Trinidad (2015). Over 100 speakers and over with the goal to make our Hindu mandirs the beacon for 300 delegates attend. Most rewarding is the participation humanity. of over 75-80 youth at each conference. The HMEC journey started in 2006 and has gathered momentum in connecting Hindu communities and organizations and made tremendous HMEC’s Focus on New Generation progress in the past decade bringing synergy among Hindu The focus of HMEC is on the second/subsequent generations. Mandirs and institutions of USA, Canada and Caribbean. Why? To understand this let us look at the landscape of the Hindus in America (or West in general). Less than 1% of
PAGE 65 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
The meeting in Port of Spain, Trinidad this year (2015) is 10th. HMEC Discussion Topics A few examples of the topics discussed during the past nine The previous nine meetings were held in Atlanta (2006); conferences: Edison, NJ (2007); Detroit, Michigan (2008); Baltimore- Education – Washington DC area (2009); Houston, TX (2010); Columbus, ◊◊ Models of Engagement, Temples as Centers for Art and Culture OH (2011); San Jose, CA (2012); Toronto, Canada (2013); ◊◊ Best Practices, Education Programs in Hinduism Orlando, Florida (2014). Additionally, Regional HMEC were ◊◊ Preparing Priests for 21 century held in California and Illinois. In all these meetings the ◊◊ Mandir Etiquette and Operations Hindu mandir executives meet, mingle, share ideas through ◊◊ Teaching Hinduism in Universities brainstorming sessions, and amicably find resolution to ◊◊ Mandirs as Centers for Learning several compelling issues. Also, short term and long term plans are developed. Networking – ◊◊ Interfaith dialogs, Best Practices, what can we learn from HMEC Action Items and Deliverables other faiths such as Jewish? Successful initiatives, actiona items and deliverables ◊◊ Role of Mandirs in Sustaining Hindu Dharma include: Coalition of Hindu Youth CHY( ); Sanatana Dharma ◊◊ Collaboration with other Institutions Scholarships; Hindu Seva Divas (Service Days); Blood/Bone ◊◊ Temple Administration & Governance Marrow Drive; Hindu Mandir Priests Conference (HMPC), ◊◊ Networking – Evolving Temple Operations and Services Hindu American Vanprasthi Network (HAVAN) to address ◊◊ Supply Chain management in Temple Operations the needs of seniors and retired Hindu community, and Hindu ◊◊ Developing Common Infrastructure Collectively Women Network (HWN). HMEC has organized priests (HMPC) conferences in Pittsburgh (2012), New York (2013), Youth Sessions – Baltimore-Washington DC (2014), and Minnesota (2015). ◊◊ Bridging the Gap Efforts are underway to start training projects for priests. ◊◊ Mera Mandir Mera Ghar Coalition of Hindu Youth (CHY) organizes youth activities ◊◊ Challenges and success in Retaining Youth in our Faith such as summer camps, HMEC conferences. Sanatan Dharma Scholarships are awarded by CHY at the HMEC each year. A Mandir Seva Programs – Seva Divas day is celebrated on October 2nd with a Blood ◊◊ Social Outreach Programs Donation drive through temples. Hindu Chaplaincy program ◊◊ Blood Donation drives is being developed for full implementation.
The above described projects have helped in producing several publications such as Antyesthi Samskar (Hindu final rites), Vivah Sanskar (Hindu marriage ceremony), and Hindu Prayer book for caregivers and Chaplains. Mandir Vani is published annually to capture various activities in Hindu communities and scholarly articles on various aspects of Hinduism.
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PAGE 67 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
HMEC 2015 GUIDING TEAM CONVENER Vipul Patel Deoroop Teemal
HOST Pt. Amar Seepersad Naresh Bhagwansingh Pta. Dr. Indrani Rampersad Ashwinee Ragoonanan Vimla Ramsumair Gopichan Ramnath Omanath Maharaj Kumar Mahabir Dave Rampersad Arvind Singh Rayan Ramoutar Pt. Bhadase Seetahal Maharaj
USA CANADA Abhaya Asthana Ram Hardowar Hemant Parekh Amit Mehta Ram Suchdev Budhendra Doobay Hiranya Gowda Ravi Joshi Dwarka Persaud Kaushik Joshi Sanjay Mehta Ramesh Gosyne Surendra N. Pandey Sant Gupta Ramnarine Sahadeo Maithili Lee Bachu Sharma Tadepalli Ami Patel Nangali S. Srinivasa Sudershan Pasupuleti Pt. Roopnauth Sharma Navin Kadakia Anit Gupta Padma Kuppa Umesh Shukla
HMEC LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE Pt. Amar Seepersad Pta. Dr. Indrani Rampersad Vimla Ramsumair Rayan Ramoutar Naresh Bhagwansingh Ashwinee Ragoonanan Gopichan Ramnath Dr. Kumar Mahabir Dr. Arvind Singh Pt. Bhadase Seetahal Maharaj
PAGE 68 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, Inc. (World Hindu Council of America)
OFFICERS 2015 Abhaya Asthana, President Jyotish Parekh, Past President Sanjay Mehta, General Secretary Vasav Mehta, National Treasurer Anit Gupta, Assistant Treasurer Girish Gandhi, Vice President, Seva Umesh Shukla, Vice President, Seva Shyam Tiwari, Vice President, Publications Vimal Sodhani, Vice President, Finance Dhaval Joshipura, Organizing Secretary, (SW), Membership Sanjay Kaul, Organizing Secretary, (NE), Membership Sneha Mehta, Organizing Secretary, (SE), Membership Yogesh Naik, Director, Seva in America Renu Gupta, Director, Seva - Support A Child Arvind Patel, Director, HAVAN Kumar Dave, Director, HAVAN Ajay Shah, Director, AHAD Sant Gupta, Convener, HMPC Vipul Patel, Convener, HMEC Utsav Chakrabarti, Coordinator, Media Relations & PR Bibek Das, Editor, News Digest Samir Asthana, CHY (Coalition of Hindu Youth) Keya Bhatt, CHY (Coalition of Hindu Youth) Srinivas Bolisetty, Director, Web and Information Technology
For further information about VHPA, please visit: http://vhp-america.org
National Office P.O. Box 441505, Houston, TX 77244-1505 Phone: (281) 496-5676 Fax: (281) 742-8185 E-mail: [email protected]
PAGE 69 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
Let noble thoughts come to us from every side - Rig Veda 1-89-i
HIHIHINHINNNDUDU MAMANNNNDIRDIR EXECUTIVES' CONFERENCE 2015
PAGE 70 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
PAGE 71 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
SANGEET MILAN CULTURAL ORGANISATION 15 Robinson Street, Chaguanas, Trinidad Phone- 671-0424/724-9221 Email- rukmineebeepath@gmail,com
THE LEADER RUKMINEE HOLASS BEEPATH –a retired teacher and Hindi scholar is the author of four cultural books written in English and Hindi (Roman-script ) especially designed to educate and inform Hindus, both adults and youths, about different aspects of our cultural traditions. These books, for the past ten years, have been promoting and preserving dharma in the Caribbean Hindu diaspora.
JANAM GEET BOOK with accompanying CD- outlines the 16 sanskaars and information on Births of children and contains songs for Janamasthmi, Ramnaumi, Ganesh Jayanti, Hanuman Jayanti, sohars and Lories.
VIVAAHA GEET BOOK with3 CD’s outlines in detail the entire Hindu Wedding Ceremony. Step by step with appropriate traditional songs for Maatikhor, Bhatwaan night and vivaaha or Wedding day ceremonies with explanation.
ANTYESTHI SANSKAAR BOOK with CD is a compilation of 140 songs for funerals, cremation and bhandaara services.
GANGA DARSHANAM BOOK AND CD outlines in detail the Ganga Dashahara festival in Trinidad as well as Kartiknahan puja which helps us to eradicate sins accumulated during this lifetime by the performance of Ganga Puja
Sangeet Milan led by Rukminee Holass Beepath can be contacted for entertainment at Janew-Sanskaar, Maati-khor, (Sunday) Wedding ceremonies, Chhatti (6 days), Barahi (12 days), Birthday and Anniversary celebrations, Ramayan Satsanghs, Bhajans, Kirtans.….
PAGE 72 MANDIR VANI SADHNA PETROLEUMwww.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 SERVICES COMPANY LIMITED
Founded in 1993, SADHNA PETROLEUM SERVICES COMPANY LIMITED (SADHNA) has established itself within the local oil industry as a key player in the provision of Drilling, Workover, Completion, Well Abandonment and Project Management Services.
Sadhna has successfully executed projects in both onshore and offshore environments with several local and internationally based companies in various capacities.
The Company was built on a foundation of sound ethical practices and community stewardship. These principles are the major elements of our corporate culture. Additionally, we ensure that the highest Health, Safety and Environmental control systems are implemented to foster a safe and accident free environment.
Sadhna Petroleum Services Company Limited based in Trinidad and Suriname is a provider of:
»» Turnkey and Integrated Drilling Services »» Well Abandonments »» Drilling & Workover Rigs »» Drilling Project Management »» Construction – Roads and Drilling Sites »» Water Well Drilling »» Procurement Services
SADHNA PATROLEUM SERVICES COMPANY LIMITED
Trinidad: Suriname: : : 461 Southern Main Road, Larecoweg 138, Saramacca, Rousillac, Trinidad, West Indies Suriname Ph.: 868-651-1929/30; 310-3251 Ph.: 597 327-176 Fax: 868-651-1937 Fax: 597 327-100 PAGE 73 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
PAGE 74 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
You are invited to attend Simhastha Kumbh Mela, 2016 at Ujjain, India
HMEC is working with Life Management Group of Ujjain to reserve accommodation on Kumbh Mela site.
Dates: Friday, April 29th to Sunday, May 8th, 2016
Charges: $151 per day (includes stay in air-cooled/conditioned cabin and meals. Cabin can accomodates 3 to 4 persons.)
Nearest Airport: Indore, MP
Around 50 million devotees are expected to attend the Kumbh mela in Ujjain. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is located in the ancient city of Ujjain
A unique opportunity to enjoy Bharat Yaatra and Spiritual Mela together as a part of HMEC group
For more details and early reservation (due to high number of visitors) please contact:
Kumar Dave, [email protected], 317-809-2145 Vipul Patel, [email protected], 484-664-9420 Sanjay Mehta, [email protected], 412-251-9133
PAGE 75 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015
PAGE 76 MANDIR VANI Arsha Vidya Gurukulamwww.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 P.O. BOX 1059, Saylorsburg, PA 18353. Phone: (570) 992 2339. www.arshavidya.org
WITH BEST COMPLIMENTS FOR HMEC-2015
नहि 煍ञनेन सद्रशं पवित्रमिह विध्यत | There is nothing as purifying as knowledge.
PAGE 77 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - October 2015 NOTES
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PAGE 79 MANDIR VANI www.myhmec.com Issue 10 - OctoberVishwa 2015 Hindu Parishad of America, Inc. (World Hindu Council of America) http://vhp-america.org/ 44 Year Journey In the Service of Hindu Community VHPA INITIATIVES
◊◊ Bal Vihar and Youth Camp: For more than three decades VHPA has been organizing samskar building programs like Bal Vihars, Youth camps and Conferences in many cities through chapters. ◊◊ Seva Network: The seva program is the bedrock of our work with two acitivties: Seva in America (SIA) and Support a Child (SAC) in Bharat. VHPA raises funds to support disaster relief works both in America and Bharat. ◊◊ Publications: VHPA publications create the space for us in the community and enable us to leave an imprint of our principles, values and achievements in the minds of the people. ◊◊ Hindu Vishwa - Quarterly magazine. (Printed and electronic version) ◊◊ Hindu Vishwa Newsletter - Quarterly newsletter. (Printed and electronic version) ◊◊ HV News Digest - Electronic digest of news articles covering Hindu interests across the world. ◊◊ Position Papers - on fuzzy or controversial subjects. ◊◊ Books: Comprehensive Prayer book, Antyeshthi Samskar, Vivah Samskar (a guide for priests, parents and young couples), Hindu prayer book for Caregivers and chaplains, Sanatan Dharma guide for adults, Hindu Dharma Essentials for children. ◊◊ Advocacy & Activism: Working with like-minded organizations to support advocacy to sustain Sanatan Dharma. ◊◊ Hindu Awareness programs: Programs that bring awareness of Sanatan Dharma values and practices in the Hindu community. Talks, Seminars and celebrations like Hindu Heritage Day, Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, Study group. ◊◊ Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference (HMEC): An annual initiative seeking development of network between the executives of all Hindu mandirs/Institutions of America. Mandir Vani is published annually to commemorate the conference. http://myhmec.com/ ◊◊ Hindu Priests (Pundit) Network: The pundits play an essential role in the spiritual and cultural welfare of the Hindu society by performance pujas, yajnas, samskaras for devotees. The Priests conferences are held annually. ◊◊ The Hindu American Vanaprasthi Network (HAVAN): To provide information on services available for the retired and to be retired members of Hindu community living in America. The implied transformation contained in the term Vanaprasthi is a journey from often conflicted lifestyle of householder dominated with family needs and interests to conflict-free lifestyle of community service and self development reflecting the purpose and goals of Hindu way of living and leading to Self-realization. Held seven regional conferences in past three years. ◊◊ Coalition of Hindu Youth (CHY): Pronounced “chai”, it is a youth led group founded in 2009 at the HMEC with the primary goal of fostering the unity of youth at the hundreds of communities across this land in which we have come to reside, as well as the myriad youth involved in various nationwide Hindu organizations. www.chynetwork.org ◊◊ Sanatan Dharma Scholarship: The Scholarship program aims to promote independent research, focusing on scientific and rational foundation of the Sanatan Dharma concepts and Vedic philosophy. www.chynetwork.org ◊◊ Hindu Women's Network: A forum that gives voice to the Hindu women's perspective on contemporary issues; Develop programs for holistic physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, development of women and promote values in tune with the mother's inner voice.
PAGE 80 Membership: Please visit the website: http://vhp-america.org/