Chinmaya-Tej Web-site:www.chinmaya.org Chinmaya Mission San Jose Publication Vol.20, No.3 May/ Mission Statement To provide to individuals, from any background, the wisdom of Vedanta and practical means for spiritual growth and happiness, enabling them to become a positive contributor to the society.

Constant Reflection

When you see the area of the palm of the hand, you see the palm plus the light that is illumining it. When you remove the palm, what remains is light, which you cannot perceive but you intuitively know it is there.

If you can subtract and reject the object from any thought in you, you can reach for that state of consciousness in which the thought shines.

In case you are able to do this, your life is fulfilled. One does not realize the enormity of the loss, if after trillions of lives you come to gain a human birth and you do not utilize it to fulfill you life and reach the Goal. s Table of Contents s

From the Editor’s Desk ...... 2 CMSJ-New Facility — Status of the Building Project ...... 3 Acharya Conference 2009 ...... 5 Youth Meet March 2009 ...... 14 One Year Residential Vedanta Course ...... 15 Bala Vihar and Yuva Kendra Programs ...... 16 BalaVihar Fourth Grade Classes ...... 19 Bala Vihar / Yuva Kendra and Language Classes ...... 22 BV Locations, Abhishekam, Swaranjali Choir ...... 23 Community Outreach Program ...... 24 Bhakti Rasamrutam ...... 25 BalVihar Kids Magazine ...... 27 Gita Chanting Classes for Children ...... 27 Tapovan Prasad Magazine ...... 28 Chinmaya Study Group Scheme ...... 29 Vedanta Adult Study Groups ...... 30/31. Br .Prabodhji's Satsang ...... 30 Br .Prabodhji's Classes ...... 31 Swami Tejomayananda's Itinerary ...... 32

1 From The Editors Desk

Chinmaya Tej, is a bi-monthly publication of Chinmaya Mission San Jose. CMSJ is in the process of getting the necessary permits to build the New Facility. The City of San Jose is studying the building drawings and when they are approved we shall begin the construction of our New Building. We are happy to show you some elevation drawings of the projects. We invite you to visit the site when you can. News and events update via e-newsletter on CMSJ web-site is serving our timely announcements. Please keep us updated with your e-mail addresses and send them to “[email protected]” If you do not hear from us e-mail or Chinmaya Tej, please forward your address and e-mail to me indicated on this page. Chinmaya Tej is also available for viewing on our website. Chinmaya-Tej will be mailed to all Sponsors and Members of Chinmaya Mission San Jose. Send your subscription marked, Chinmaya-Tej, CMSJ, 1050 Park Ave., San Jose, CA 95126.

Chinmaya Tej Editorial Staff Editor: Uma Jeyarasasingam ([email protected]) Co-editor: Rohini Joshi Electronic Editorial Advisor: Satish Joshi Contributors: Brahmachari Adarsh Chaitanya, Subbu Venkatkrishnan, Uma Jeyarasasingam, Rohini Joshi Design & Layout: four waters / four waters media Printing: Bill Browning/PigMint Press, Redway, California Data Base: Kapil Vaish Mailing: Autozip, Ukiah, California Contact us: http://www.chinmaya.org • Phone: (650) 969-4389 Fax: (650)428-1795

2 Building

Status of Status the Project Welcome back to the 2009-2010 session. We trust that all of you had a great summer. We have a great session planned for this year including the upcoming Navarathri celebrations, Samashti Deepavali pooja, Thanksgiving camp, Christmas camp etc. Our Acharya will continue his discourses at Sandeepany and during Balavihar sessions. We hope all of you take advantage of the same and continue on the path of spiritual learning that is available here in the Bay area. Over 1700 students have already registered this year for Balavihar and we expect that the final tally will cross 1800. This will be a 10% growth y/y and showcases the value that this program brings to the community. This is faster than our planned growth (leading to more challenges that we are pleased to accept!) and only reminds us of the importance of the new building project. Let us give you a quick update of the same: We started the New Building project on Maha Shivarathri in 2006 and acquired the property in January 2008 (2 buildings, ~11,000 sq ft total, 1.7 acres) at a cost of $2.6M. We spent $2M of our own money to purchase this property and had a $0.6M mortgage. We are happy to report that this mortgage has been fully paid off thanks to your support! We are currently using this property for community events such as Bala Utsav etc. In addition, we have retained Archevon (Jain temple, Sunnyvale temple archi- tects) to help us tear down and re-build a facility that suits our needs. Plans have been drawn up for a building of 25,000 sf that include a temple, Acharya’s quarters, lecture hall, classrooms, bookstore, office, garden, and adequate parking. We have revised this a few times with feedback from the city planners. We are currently continuing discussions with the City, having already received informal feedback on the We have revised this a few times with feedback from the city planners. We are currently continuing discussions with the City, having already received informal feedback on the plan, and are preparing the plans for formal submission. Please note that this is only the first major step and there are many more steps that need to be taken to receive approval.

3 A lot of hard work has gone into working with the city planners and the archi- tects in getting this far and we thank all of you for your patience and support of the same. At the same time, we have also made significant progress in our fund-raising efforts. Over the past year, we have raised an additional $0.5M. We are still about $1M away from our final goal, and are counting on your support to make this happen. Here is how we stand: Costs Acquisition costs: $2.6M New Building construction costs: $5.0M Total project cost: $7.6M Sources of Funds Already paid: $2.6M Equity against 1050 Park Ave: $1.0M New Mortgage that we can take: $2.2M Cash on hand: $0.8M Need to raise: $1.0M Total: $7.6M

Of the $1.0M that we still need to raise, we are targeting $400K this calendar year. We can see the light at the end of the tunnel and Gurudev’s vision coming to fruition! We are making progress with this project and we need your help this year to meet our goal of $400K by Dec. 31st 2009. Please make a contribution towards our goal – some of our patrons have donated a few thousand dollars, some more and some less, but every contribution counts! We also accept in-kind contributions, including securities and the entire contribution is usually tax-deductible. To make a donation, please click on “Contribute Your Bit towards the CMSJ New Facility” on our web page ( HYPERLINK “http://www.chinmaya-sanjose. org/”www.chinmaya-sanjose.org) or make a check payable to “Chinmaya Mission San Jose” and mail it to us. We look forward to your support. May Gurudev bless you all! CMSJ Board

4 2009 Acharya Conference

ACHARYA CONFERENCE 2009 for Tej

A few sparks of the Fire were united in the first overseas Acharya conference held at the picturesque Chinmaya Vibhooti from 19th - 23rd May 2009. The participants of the conference were representing the countries New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, South Africa, France, Canada, USA and Trinidad. We had Acharyas who have been directly transformed by Pujya Gurudev and have been serving His Vision for over three decades. On the other side of the spectrum, we found those who have never met Pujya Gurudev and are enthusiastically serving His Vision for just a couple of years. This opportunity was magnificent and we can’t thank Pujya Guruji enough for it. Many of the Acharyas were meeting each other for the first time. There were also a few reunions taking place as well. Pujya Guruji, Swami Tejomayananda convened the Conference, the first of its kind in Chinmaya Mission. Â

(above) The Acharyas Conference May 19-23, 2009 group picture taken at Chinmaya Vibhooti, Post Kolwan, Taluka Mulashi, Pune - 412108, India. 5 The purpose of the conference was the Acharyas I must admit that I had clearly outlined in Pujya Guruji’s put off in preparing for them and it inaugural address. was not till the last minute when I found myself burning the midnight • To give the acharyas an opportunity to get to know each other and share oil when it became evident that their vision and work done in their there was no escape from it. (Mind respective centres; you, the burning of midnight oil was partly thanks to MY BLOOD relatives • To Keep the Vision Glowing by in the Vibhooti, the beloved mosqui- re-asserting Pujya Gurudev’s vision toes. There was sufficient time in the in mind so that we don’t lose sight; day to reflect on the verses, I guess • To bring forth any organisational Pujya Guruji knew my plight a year matters which we were facing in before I found myself in it.) our centres which needed guidance from Pujya Guruji and the Senior We also had a very valuable session Acharyas; called, Sharing the Vision with Senior Acharyas where all the Acharyas of • And to look ahead at how we can the different regions spoke for 15 celebrate the 2015 – 2016 centenary minutes and covered the following celebration of Pujya Gurudev’s topics: Jayanti. • the work that is being done in their During the conference Pujya Guruji respective countres or region, ensured that even this activity is kept in line with the main aim of the • their vision of Chinmaya Mission Mission and did not deteriorate into based on their experience; and a winging session for the Acharyas • the vision for the future of Chinmaya by ensuring that we all undertook Mission in their respective centres. Vedanta Vichar. After all, the clear The schedule also included sessions understanding of the principles of taken by Pujya Guruji on the discus- Vedanta ends all delusion. Guruji sion group topics (discussed by the said that through consistent vichar Acharyas the day before). The four on these principles is born clarity of discussion topics were as follows – knowledge and clarity of purpose. • What are the distinct features of Hindu Vedånta-vichårena jåyate religion? • How do you prove the re-incarnation Gyånam-uttamam theory? For this, we were given four Group • How do you convince yourself that the discussion topics on Vedånta, one for reveal Advaita? each day and also topics to speak on Bhagavad Geeta for 5 to 8 minutes • What are the salient features of karma, upasana, jnana and dhyana? every evening. Even though these topics were given a year ago to all Some of the salient points highlighted

6 by Pujya Guruji on the discussion “Yatho Abhyudaya Nishreyasa group topics were as follows: – Praptih” that by which one gains Pujya Guruji spoke about the all round prosperity and the common notions of Hindu Religion ultimate goal in life or moksha; and they were: If Nishreyasa or seeking the highest The Hindu Religion is very confusing goal in life is not understood, then all and certain traditions and supersti- the practices of religion will appear tions become . confusing and meaningless; When we do not understand the The Goal of dharma must be moksha. means and its purpose (Sadhya and Therefore, abhyudaya must be in Sadhana Viveka) of any system and line with nishreyasa. Dharma is the continue to follow them there will be Sadhana (Means) and Moksha is aberrations in that system. We can’t the Sadhya (Goal). This is the total blame the system for that. Thus, picture. When this total picture is today’s Hinduism is based on the absent then the various instructions pillars of cast-system, superstition, and injunctions are misunderstood. mere ritualism, fate-based pessimism E.g. crossing the ocean is adharma. and a society lacking in true heroism If we understand the spirit behind based on its false notions of non- this injunction it is valid. We know violence. This is because we have when we go overseas we need to not understood the goal of Dharma make many compromises in our as a whole. value system and life-styles, etc. Every system must have a purpose, Thus, many times we are unable so what is the purpose of Dharma? to maintain the pristine purity of The Purpose of (Sanatana) Dharma our culture and often it gets mixed is defined as: with other cultures. We see that

7 with inter-racial marriages and its Some commonly misunderstood conflicts. Thus, to maintain the concepts were clarified by Guruji purity of our culture it was advised including the following: not to cross the seas. Paraloka-vadi — Hindus are There are three aspects to Dharma: interested in enjoying in Darshan Shastra – Philosophy or other loka-s Adhyatma aspect; Abhyudaya automatically indicates Dharma Shastra – Ethics; that the Hindu religious practices are Samaj Shastra – Social codes; not meant for other worldly enjoy- ments but are meant for prosperity All the three aspects are geared here and now for an individual and to gain Moksha (Total Freedom the society. or Peace), whether it be samajic dharma or otherwise, only when the Fatalist — Pessimistic attitudes to- injunctions/ suggestions are seen in wards one’s life; we take it that this light of its central purpose then some are destined to succeed their validity is seen. and others are destined to fail. The are divided in 2 parts in The Karma theory when understood order to fulfill its purpose: correctly states that “We are the makers of our own destiny. The Jiva Dharma Shastra – for prosperity to whom all Karma-s belong, is a and purity of mind; product of his Karma-s not a victim Adhyatma Shastra – Moksha of his Karma-s.” (Brahman); Castism is Hinduism This is seen in the wonderful picture Castism is different from the Caste of Lord Shiva (Brahman) riding System Varna-s of brahmana (the the Bull (Dharma) in the Purana-s, visionary), kshatriya (the executor), highlighting the purpose of Dharma vaishya (mobilizer of resources) is Moksha. and shudra (the worker) are based 8 on an individual’s guna-s and past take us to Moksha – the Akarma- actions (karma-s) not merely on state. janma (birth). However, birth is not or incarnation of Lord an accident. It is also determined depends on what we take to be by our guna-s and karma-s so both our concept of God? To an atheist ways our varna is determined by our no avatar is possible. Only when guna, karma and janma. we accept God to be saguna- All the Varna-s are necessary for sakar (with attributes and form), society to function. In fact, a is avatar possible. However, can person is promoted on the basis God-principle be a concept? Of of these varna-s from shudra (mere course not. God cannot be condi- clerk) to the brahmana (the CEO/ tioned to be only one with a Consultant). particular form. The universality of All the varna-s must do their job the Infinite presence is the avatar with a Seva bhava then alone the of Lord. The particular form of work will lead to nishreyasa and the Lord is also a means to guide abhyudaya. us to the Infinite Realisation and is not meant to bind us. Thus, Greater the selflessness and the the Hindu knows that the Lord higher the altar of dedication of is One in all forms, just as gold one’s action the higher the varna he is the one precious substance in belongs to. all ornaments. Re-birth or reincarnation Seeking of Liberation and avatar are illogical beliefs in Hinduism is a very If we understand what is birth then we will find re-birth is not logical. individualistic and selfish pursuit. The attainment of Nishreyasa or Janma (Birth) is when there is Moksha has to be individualistic; identification with a particular just as sleep and hunger must be upãdhi. When we drop that upãdhi quenched or satiated individually. it is death. E.g. when we identify with anger, an angry man is born Some other points made by Pujya and when we dis-identify with it, Guruji were: the angry man in me dies. When ‘Dharma’ which has meaning of we again identify with anger, the ‘Law of Being’, ‘duties’ and ‘values’ angry man takes re-birth. This is Eternal. Just as honesty, integrity, is logical and not a superstitious truthfulness, etc. have always been belief. same over time and culture. In the Birth and Re-birth are caused same way, a parent’s duty, a teacher’s by identification and are guided duty, a student’s duty, a doctor’s duty by our Karma-s and are meant to in essence has also been the same 9 over time. We also see every plant, The greatest unique quality of the animal and human constantly seek Hindu Religion is that it is the eternal happiness in some way or only Religion which goes beyond form as their nature is to gravitate the prescriptions and transcends the towards happiness. Thus, whether words and its prophets to take us to it be values, duties or one’s nature the essence. Just like when we go they are all Eternal. to sleep, we make all the necessary preparations but to enter sleep all Dharma cannot have any founder or the conditions created must be let go any historical date as it is eternal, it of, in the same way, all the spiritual has existed ever since creation and and religious practices are meant for is created by the Lord, the creator, purification of mind whereas they just as science or language does not too have to be given up for the expe- have a founder or a historical date. rience of the Absolute Reality. All scientific laws were in place before they were discovered by any When we follow our Dharma we particular scientist, weren’t they? gain both inner and outer expansion They were only revealed knowledge. and growth. We must follow dharma But the knowledge existed prior to as per our Ashram (Brahmacharya- the revelation. E.g. the knowledge of Grahastha-Vanaprastha-) measuring irregular objects existed and varna (Brahman, Kshatriya, before the famous exclamation Vaishya and Shudra). The Varna- “Eureka!” by Archimedes in the bath Ashram Vyavastha or system is meant tub. Therefore, dharma is shãsvatah for gaining purity of mind, having a or sanãtanah. social structure and ultimately for gaining Moksha. When we follow What is born are the various our dharma based on this system sampradaya-s not dharma-s. The we find, there is prosperity in society Sampradaya-s were a set of instruc- and one attains purity of mind at the tions to suit a particular set of people individual level. in a particular place at a particular time in order that they achieve a How do you convince yourself level of purity so that they can realise this universal dharma. Thus, dharma that the Upanishads reveal Advaita? is always one but sampradaya-s are God, not in a form or as a person- many. E.g. The Science of Medicine ality but as the ultimate power, the is only one, but the branches of Supreme, the Infinite Power, the Medicine are many. Omniscient, cannot have division or be dependant. He must necessarily When sampradaya is taken to be be independent or else He will cease Dharma that’s when the problems to be all-powerful and Infinite. Thus, occur. God cannot have another cause or The various sampradaya-s are meant a co-existing power on which He is to take us to Dharma. dependent. This would be illogical. 10 The Upanishads reveal the nature Hence, the Upanishads say that God of the supreme to be Truth and is the power that makes us alive, Infinitude. Truth is defined as that the Consciousness Inifinite. That is which is same, common to all and universal indeed and non-contra- cannot be denied by anyone. Just dictable. Thus, Vedãnta proves God as dreams are different to everyone to be Advaita. and therefore untrue whereas in sleep it is one common experience What are the salient features of and hence true. In the same way, life karma, upasana, gyana and dhyana? is the same in all beings, undistin- guished. It is universal. The ultimate Regarding the different means such cause of my experiences is not many, as Karma, Upasana (Bhakti), Gyanam it is one, the fact that I am alive. and Dhyanam Guruji differentiated them from the Vritti (thought) stand- What determines Truth? Is it percep- point as follows – tibility that determines what is true? No because the sun rise we know Karma is Aneka Bheda Vritti Rupa – is false even though it is perceived. It is of the nature of many pronged The majority, do votes determine thoughts and is directed towards what is true, obviously not! Utility multi-fold activity. also does not determine truth, I Upasana is Adhyasa Rupa, Atasmin may take a role of a beggar to Tad-buddhi; Gyana Poorvakam and make some money, its useful, but Shraddha Prayukta Rupa Adhyasa I’m certainly not a beggar. Thus, Sajatiya Vritti – It is of the nature none of these factors determine what of super-imposition of the higher is true. It is non-contradictability on the lower through knowledge that determines what is true, that and with faith. It is of the nature of which cannot be falsified. I cannot sa-jatiya vritti (many thoughts on the ever deny my own existence, even same subject). The super-imposition though I deny the world and God. is based on the scriptural guidelines. 11 Bhakti is a form of upasana where Along with the incomparable wisdom there is Ishtakara Vritti (desired Lord given to us there was another couple is super-imposed in all thoughts). of highlights to the conference and In Gyanam, Vastu Tantra Vritti is they were: necessary. It does not need contin- uous thought repetition. Once The Chinmaya Jeevan Darshan knowledge is gained it need not be There are no words to express the repeated constantly. E.g. Once you magnificence of the CJD. Only the know a watch you do not need to eyes know but the words cannot repeat to yourself again and again translate the experience. One must that this is a watch. Atma-gyana is an go to the Vibhooti to see this marvel Akandakara Vritti; where there is no if one wants to know Pujya Gurudev. difference between the knower and For those who have been touched by the known object. Once a person Him, well here’s another opportunity knows he is the 10th man they were to be touched again. looking for, the seeking stops as the difference between the seeker and the Upanishad Ganga sought has ended in the knowledge This is a mighty project undertaken by of him being the 10th man. Pujya Guruji, Swami Advayanandaji, Dhyanam is Pragyana Svarupam Swamini Vimalanandaji, Brahmachari — It is of the nature of awareness. Samvidji and all the many sponsors. Without Gyanam, Dhyanam I must say it is worth watching will lead to Jada Samadhi and on as there is so much to learn from return from the state of samadhi, these episodes it is truly a Chinmaya ignorance will continue. Dhyanam Mission Production. is necessary to gain abidance in the Svarupa sthiti. Cutural Night Pujya Guruji summarised our attitude The theme of the cultural night was regarding the Mission in three simple Vedanta is not boring and Vedanta principles and they are: Masters are not one-dimensional. This was just the most hilarious • Love thy self – Love your own centre, experience ever as we saw a side work hard and dedicate all efforts to our beloved Acharya-s which to the Lord and at the Feet of Pujya was well concealed from us all Gurudev in the spirit of Karma this time. It started off with Swami Yoga. Prakashanandaji singing the • Love Thy neighbour – Serve and Gurustoram in a Carribean beat support in whatever way possible which was most entertaining. You other centres. can hear this on our Chinmaya • Love Thy Mother – Always find ways Mission Dallas website in the to support and give back to CCMT Audio section. This followed some (the parent organisation) in India. other presentations by Shri Vimalji

12 reminiscing of a day in the life at Chinmaya Vibhooti and CCMT, of a Sandeepany student, it was who tirelessly worked day and 8followed by Uddhavji sharing his night to provide us with all our exploits in the US as a FOB (fresh needs and made this conference off the Boat), Arpitaji came up possible. I would also like to thank with a new way to beat the heat our mission devotees the world over in Mumbai with an entertaining who sponsored the Prasad for the tune. The most entertaining item conference and made the experi- of the day had to be the short skit ence even more palatable. Finally, presented by Swami Prakashanandaji to our Pujya Gurudev, on behalf of Swami Ishwaranandaji and Shri all the Acharya-s, I offer my humble Mahadevanji. Pranams for giving us this wonderful Finally, the conference ended family and this golden opportunity with a vote of thanks by Swami to live this life divine dedicated to Abhedanandaji, Brahmachari serve His Noble Vision. Uddhavji and Smt. Shailejaji. This Hari Om & Pranams, was followed by Gurudev’s 108 At His Feet, names Archana performed by Swami Brahmachari Adarsh Chaitanya Dheeranandaji who had coinciden- Acharya, Chinmaya Mission, tally received sannyasa deeksha New Zealand on that day from Pujya Gurudev himself. Swamiji was the last one to receive Sannyasa deeksha from Pujya Gurudev. Ironically the date of commencement of the conference also happened to be Swami Dheeranandaji’s birthday. Such is the divine play that we are all fortunate to be a part of. All in all, this experience was worth savouring and was really out of this world. I do sincerely offer my pranams to Pujya Guruji for orga- nising this conference and to all the Swamijis and fellow Acharya-s for their inspira- tion and guidance and last but not the least the love of all the volunteers, the staff

13 by Rohini Joshi The 11th and 12th grade Yuva Kendra students from all Bay Area Centers were invited to attend an outing that included a hike in Rancho San Antonio Park in Los Altos area and an informal exchange of information with YK alumni now attending college. We had very good representation from the alumni group including UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC San Diego, MIT, Stanford and Santa Clara University. The students also discussed the following topics: a) Why does Bhagavan provide Arjuna with a talk on Self Knowledge when Arjuna is facing a decision on whether to fight the war or not? b) How is it possible to cultivate a purity of mind in our lives?

College students talked about practical applications of the Gita's teaching in their lives. Alumni talked about the confidence they derived from their study of the when facing challenges in college in terms of stress, deadlines, and interpersonal relationships. Some mentioned their improved ability to step back from a difficult situation and objectively evaluate options rather than acting in a panic mode. The students and alumni provided positive responses to the idea of con- tinuing such exchanges in future, perhaps with more impetus coming from students and alumni about topics to be addressed. Thank you to all of the adult volunteers for their participation and guidance. 14 One Year Residential Vedanta Course Chinmaya Mission West (CMW) is pleased to announce its One-Year Residential Vedanta Course at CMW's Headquarters, the ashram of Krishnalaya in Northern California, amidst the serene Redwoods with the blessing and guidance from Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda

DATES The Course will commence August 7, 2010 and end in August 2011. This residential, full-time Course, without any holidays, will be conducted in English. ACHARYAS AND TEXTS Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda: Tattwa Bodha, Mandukya Upanishad (selected) and Essence of Srimad Bhagawatam & . Swami Shantananda: Dakshinamoorty Stotram and Sat Darshanam. Swami Ishwarananda: Bhagawad Gita. Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya: Upadesha Saara, Atma Bodha, Drg Drshya Viveka, Panchadashi Ch. 1, and Isa, Kena, Katha, Mundaka Upanishads Acharya Smt. Sharada Kumar: Vedic Chanting, bhajans, Suktams, Samskrt & Vivekchudamani Taittiriya Upanishad and Sahasranaamavali. SCHEDULE Pujya Guruji : August 7-22 2010 Acharya Smt. Sharada Kumar: August 2010 - August 2011 Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya : August - October 2010 Swami Ishwarananda : November - December 2010 Swami Shantananda: January 2011 Swami Ishwarananda: February - March 2011 Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya: April - May 2011 Acharya Sharada Kumar: June - July 2011 Pujya Guruji: August 2011 The Course will commence August 7, 2010 and end in August 2011. This residential, full-time Course, without any holidays, will be conducted in English. REGISTRATION $12,000 (covers registration, lodging, boarding, and books; payable in installments) Submit your name and contact information through the website provided. All submissions will be reviewed and eligible candidates will be asked to schedule a personal interview, the details of which will be provided at a later date.

For additional questions, contact Brahmachari Prabodh Chaitanya.

15 BalaVihar and Yuva Kendra Programs

In the Bay Area (San Jose, Fremont and Danville, California)

by Uma Jeyarasasingam

A delectable offering of topics from the venerable Hindu Culture and Puranic Literature, along with some of the most widely spoken Indian Languages are being taught to children and youth, KG – 12th Grade, at Chinmaya Mission San Jose’s Bala Vihar and Yuva Kendra programs in the Bay Area. These programs were initiated by Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda some 28 years ago in Los Altos, California. Pujya Gurudev was the founder of the Chinmaya Movement in India and all over the world. Back when Gurudev initiated these programs, they were very small, but grew in strength rapidly, serving all who came to discover their Hindu Heritage. Today, Swami Tejomayananda, currently the Head of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide, oversees the programs. As student enrollment steadily grew, so did the ranks of teachers. Scores of adults, inspired by the noble service that was being rendered to shape young minds, came forward to volunteer their time and talent, and put their hearts and souls into teaching our children. Several of them inspired their friends to join them, thereby allowing rapid expansion of the scope of the programs. It may be worthwhile to note here that all of our teachers are volunteers and have been so since day one.

16 How do we train our Teachers? New teachers work as co-teachers under the guidance of senior teachers for a few years. This gives them the opportunity to learn the content as well as the method of delivery of what is taught well. In and through this process, they also discover for themselves whether they wish to continue or not. Most if not all such co-teachers have stayed on to become full-fledged teachers.

Where are these programs held? Bala Vihar and Yuva Kendra Programs are held at three locations in the Bay Area - Danville, Fremont, and San Jose, about 25 – 40 miles from each other. Teaching and other volunteer support to run the programs at each of these locations is provided by the local members of Chinmaya Mission San Jose. Our Resident Acharya and other visiting Acharyas commute to all locations each week. Programs at all three locations are run by Chinmaya Mission San Jose. At each location, we rent schools from the respective UnifiedS chool Districts on the weekend to hold our programs. We would like to take this oppor- tunity to convey our heartfelt thanks to the San Ramon School District, the Fremont UnifiedS chool District and San Jose UnifiedS chool District for graciously making available to us the use of their facilities.

How has our student enrollment grown over the years? Between 1995-2008, student enrollment grew by about 100 – 150 each year. This year (2009-2010 School Year), however, student enrollment has surged by over 200 students compared to last year, and we are barely in the second month of the school year! At the time of filing this report, this year’s student enrollment stood at 1866. San Jose has the largest enrollment at 1055, followed by Fremont at 553, followed by Danville at 258. Even with this unexpected surge, with the Lord’s grace and Pujya Gurudev’s blessings, we have the teachers and classrooms we need to conduct all our programs. For the last several years, many grades have had multiple sections.

In addition to Hindu Culture and Languages, what else do we offer? Swaranjali (Youth Music Choir) is offered at each location and taught by vol- unteers who are musicians. Swaranjali enrollment in all three locations has been growing tremendously as well. Swaranjali reguarly performs at events conducted by Chinmaya Mission San Jose. Many members of Swaranjali are also routinely invited to perform in their individual capacities at temples and other venues where Hindu Festivals are celebrated.

17 Gita Chanting is also offered at all three locations. Enrollment in Gita Chanting has been growing rapidly as well. Many Gita Chanting students participate and win in the annual Gita Chanting Competition conducted by Chinmaya Mission San Jose as well as other such competitions held in the Bay Area.

I would like to close by saying that we, who work in the Mission in programs such as this, are inspired by our Pujya Gurudev’s own words and I quote:

When He plans to get things done for the community, He chooses a worker “and inspires him or her to serve His plan. So long as that chosen worker is honest, sincere and selflessly dedicated without any break, the grace of Him Who is ever in our hearts, floods through the sevak and sevika. Ideas burst out, the ability to live by those ideas rises up, others get the contagious spurt of enthusiasm, and riding upon these, graciously the Lord’s plan gets accomplished miraculously.” For Narayana’s projects, will be ever present. No doubt about it.” As a Guru Dakshina, let us all put our shoulders to this holy work and create an institution to serve our growing community and to get soaked with eternal values of the Immortal Rishis. Namah Parama Rishibyo! Namah Parama Rishibyo!” Love Chinmayananda October 28 1984

18 fourth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose

Teacher: Uma Srinivasan Co-Teacher: Vrinda Bangari Youth Helper: Anand Pandian

19 fourth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar fourth Grade Class San Jose 2008-2009 Teacher: Chinmaya Balavihar Ananthi Puranam San Jose Co-Teacher: Meenakshi Nagarajan Teacher: Youth Helper: Sandhya Radhakrishna Nihal Ruparel Co-Teacher: Puja Vaish Youth Helper: Keshav Venkat

20 fourth Grade Class 2008-2009 Chinmaya Balavihar San Jose

Teacher: Aruna Peri Co-Teacher: Anu Tiwari Youth Helper: Aarushi Kalaimani

21 Bala Vihar/Yuva Kendra and Language Classes

LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL 555 Dana Avenue, San Jose Bala Vihar is in three sessions. Grades KG – 4: 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. Grades 5 – 12: 9:00 - 10:15 a.m. Language classes: 11:45 - 12:45 p.m. Gita Chanting classes: 9:30 - 10:00 a.m. 10:30 - 11:00 a.m. 12:45 - 1:15 p.m. Adult lectures by Br. Prabodhji, are held in the Media Room. All details are posted on Website: www.chinmaya-sanjose.org. All parents will receive E-mail announcements with regard to changes. The Parking Lot is on Dana Avenue and you can walk from the parking lot to the class-rooms. We are renting this facility from San Jose UnifiedS chool District. We are currently using 26 classrooms in three sessions. I appreciate all the parents, some of you who are driving your children from as far North as Redwood City to San Jose. You will find it very rewarding as you see your children grow up with Hindu Heritage, moulding them into young adults. We want the best for our children. Fremont: Classes will begin on Sept. 8, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. Classes include BalaVihar/Yuva Kendra, Gita Chanting, Languages and Dance classes. Vedanta Classes for Adults are also offered. Danville: Classes will begin on Sept. 8, 2008 at 4:30 p.m.. Classes include Bala Vihar/Yuva Kendra, Languages, Swaranjali (Youth Choir). Vedanta Classes for Adults are also offered. We have 1540 children enrolled in our program from our three centers since enrollment started 07-08 school year. I wish to thank all the volunteers who areTeachers, Co-Teachers and Youth Helpers teaching and assisting in the different classes. It takes more than teachers to organize these programs at San Jose Lincoln High, Fremont Washington High, and Danville Los Cerritos Middle School. Parent Volunteers and CMSJ Volunteers organize setting up, Book-Store, Snacks, Lecture Halls etc. Our sincere thanks to all the many dedicated volunteers.

22 Bala Vihar Locations 2008-2009 Danville: Los Cerritos Middle School 968 Blemer Road Saturdays 4:30 pm Contact: Meena Kapadia – (925) 680-7037 San Jose: Lincoln High School 555 Dana Avenue Sunday - Session I-9:00 a.m., Session II-10:30 a.m. Contact: Uma – (650) 969-4389 Fremont: Washington High School 38442, Fremont Blvd. Saturdays 1:30 pm Contact: Lakshmi Prakash – (510) 490-1266

Shiva Abhisheka & Puja at Sandeepany San Jose Conducted by Mission Members Time: 7:30-8:30 pm / Every 2nd Monday of the month

Swaranjali Youth Choir San Jose Choir sessions are held every alternate Sundays between 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Venue: Sandeepany / San Jose Teachers: Prema Sriram, Jaya Krishnan, and Jayashree Ramkumar Contact: Poornima Dilip: [email protected] Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Ranjani at the address above.

Danville Choir sessions are held once every two weeks, Saturdays at 2:30pm - 3:30p.m. Venue: Los Cerros Middle School 968 Blemer Road San Ramon, CA 94582 Teacher: Shailaja Dixit / Contact: Shailaja at 925-309-4837 Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Shailaja at the above number.

Fremont Choir is held weekly on Saturdays, 12 noon - 1:00 p.m. Venue: Washington High School / Fremont Teachers: Natana Valiveti and Rajashri Iyengar. Those who are interested in joining the choir as vocalist or musicians may please contact Natana at [email protected]

23 Community Outreach Program Chinmaya Mission San Jose Seva Opportunities

San jose Are You Willing to Volunteer or Just Sponsor the Program? If yes, please call Krishna Bhamre: (408) 733-4612 or e-mail [email protected] We need volunteers for preparing and serving Hot Meals for the Homeless. Lunch bags are prepared at Los Altos Community Center. All Youth volunteers are required to sign up with Krishna Bhamre. Meals For The Homeless Program: Served at San Jose’s Emergency Housing Consortium at Orchard Drive off Curtner Avenue (Adult & Youth Volunteers & Sponsors).

Fremont Fremont BV sponsors Sandwiches For The Needy. On the 2nd Saturday/Washington High School in Fremont. Parents of Bala Vihar and the kids prepare 70 Sandwiches, bag them and provide chips, fruit and juice. The Sandwiches are delivered to the Tricity Homeless Coalition, where they are served to adults and children. The Shelter is located on 588 Brown Road, Fremont, CA In addition, last Christmas, Fremont Bala Vihar donated new blankets, sweaters, sweat shirts, and infant warm clothes etc. to the homeless at the shelter.

24 Bhakti Rasamrutam (The sweet essence of Devotion)

Swaranjali, Chinmaya Youth Choir, has produced 10 CDs containing 100 Bhajans, glorifying the Lord in many Indian Languages. The Bhajans are rendered by 15 students of Swaranaji, with devotion, an offering to the Lord as their contribution to the New Building Project. The Choir is taught by Prema Sriram, Jaya Krishnan and Jayshree Ramkumar. The CD is entitled, Bhakti Rasamrutam, the sweet essence of Devotion. All details on this CD are posted on our web-site, chinmaya-sanjose.org. This is a rare gift which is very inspirational and uplifting. The proceeds from the CDs will add to our Fund-raising efforts. Thanks to all who contributed their time and talents to the production of the CD.

25 Chinmaya Swaranjali Class 2008-2009, Fremont

Teacher: Natana Valiveti

Balanceby Brni. Vividisha Chaitanya

The dew on the rose makes its pink petals glisten tender. The mist on the mountains render smoothness to its rough contours. The foam in the sea’s rush mellows the rocky boulder’s crush. The pulp of the fruit makes its hard skin bearable. The cool of the moonlight wipes the day’s heat at night. Something soft in many things hard [ like a soft spot in a hard heart, like the sweet cure of the bitter gourd, endures, endears.

26 Kids' Own Magazine... BalViHar

Parents... This is a monthly magazine published by Central Chinmaya Mission, Mumbai for Children. It is packed with stories, puzzles, arts and craft ideas, children’s contributions of essays, riddles, games, and much more. You can subscribe to it directly. The annual subscription is $30 and you will receive it monthly by air. We suggest that you subscribe in your child’s name so your child will have the pleasure of receiving his or her own magazine from India. Make your checks payable to Central Chinmaya Mission Trust and mail it to: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust Sandeepany Sadhanalaya, Saki Vihar Road, Mumbai 400 072, India.

Gita Chanting Classes for Children by Mallika Subramanian [San Jose: Lincoln High School / Every S]unday Contact: (408) 245-4915 Fremont: Washington High School / Every Saturday Contact: (510) 490-1266

27 Our thanks to all our Sponsor families who have continued to support us for many years and to all Member families who have found our programs to benefit their children thereby supporting us. We have room for more Sponsors and Members. Please invite your friends to join the larger Chinmaya Family of the Bay Area.

CMSJ SPONSORSHIP . . . . . Annual Contribution $500 CMSJ MEMBERSHIP . . . . . Annual Contribution $200 Chinmaya - Tej ...... Annual CT Sponsors $300 Chinmaya - Tej ...... Annual Subscription $50 (Receive Chinmaya-Tej only)

Tapovan Prasad

A Monthly Spiritual of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide Published by Chinmaya Chinmaya Mission, Madras. It is Internationally acclaimed Publication filled with articles and reports that are inspiring and educational. Hindus living all over the world keep in touch with their spiritual heritage through Tapovan Prasad. Annual Subscription by Airmail: US$20 (12 issues) Make checks to Tapovan Prasad Madras and mail to: No.2, 13th Avenue, Harrington Road, Chetput, Chennai,600031, India.

28 Scheme of Study for Chinmaya Study Group, US

1. Self Unfoldment 2. Tattva bodh 3. Bhaja Govindam 4. Atma bodh 5. Manah Shodhanam 6. Upadesa Saram 7. Bhakti Sutra 8. Meditation and Life 9. Bhagavad Gita Introduction – Ch.1 & 2 10. Jnanasarah 11. Kenopanishad 12. Gita, Ch. 3 – 6 13. Dyanaswaroopam 14. Kaivalya Upanishad 15. Gita, Ch. 7 – 9 16. Isavasya Upanishad 17. Gita Ch. 10 – 12 18. Bhakti Sudha 19. Gita, Ch. 13 – 15 20. Mundaka Upanishad 21. Gita, Ch. 16 – 18 22. Sat Darshan 23. Vivekachoodamani

Vedanta Study Groups held in the Bay Area are listed in this issue of Chinmaya Tej and you may contact them if you wish to join a Study Group.

29 Vedanta Study Groups Adult Sessions

Concord: Bhagavad Gita, Ch. 6 Sevak: Vipin Kapadia Contact: Meena Kapadia (925) 680-7037 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)

Cupertino: Bhagvad Gita Q&A Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact : Ram Mohan (408) 255-4431 Time: 7:30 pm (Thur.)

Fremont: Viveka Chudamani Sevika: Priya Batheja Contact: Priya Batheja (510) 490-1926 Time: 7:30 pm (Mon.)

Los Altos: Self-Unfoldment Sevak: Uma Jeyarasasingam Contact: Ruchita Parat (650) 858-1209 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)

Los Gatos Jnana Sara Sevak: Satish Joshi Contact: Tiwari (408) 234-7815 Time: 8:00 p.m. (Fri.)

Milpitas Bhagvad Gita, Ch.18 Sevika: Uma Jeyarasasingam Contact: Suma Venkatesh (408) 263-2961 Time: 7:30 pm (Tue.)

Mountain House: Self-Unfoldment Sevika: Padmaja Joshi Contact: Padmaja Joshi (209) 830-1295 Time: 8:00p.m. (Wed.)

Satsang with Br. Prabodh Chaitanya All events are from: 8:00-9:00pm 1st Friday of each month: Baljit & Prakash Bettadapur, San Jose, CA 95124 Text: Upadesa Saara • Ph: (408) 369-8315 2nd Friday of each month: Geetha & Sanjay Rao, Evergreen Text: Drg Drshya Viveka • Ph: (408) 532-6461 3rd Friday of each month: Sweta & Jnana Dash, Almaden Valley Text: Drg Drshya Viveka • Ph: (408) 268-5056

30 All classes held weekly unless otherwise stated

San Jose: Self Unfoldment Sevak: Ravi Kaw Contact: Nancy Kaw (408) 251-4725 Time: 8:00 pm (Thur.)

San Jose (LHS) Bhagvad Gita Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact: Sreeharsha (408) 446-9823 Time: 3:00 pm (Sun.)

Sandeepany SJ Vedic Chanting Sevak: Subbu Venkatakrishnan Contact: Mallika Subramanian (408) 245-4915 Time: 6:55 pm (Thur.)

San Ramon: Bhagavad Gita, Ch 3 Sevika: Sireesha Balabadra Contact: Sireesha Balabadra (925) 804-6102 Time: 7:30 p.m. (Wed.)

Saratoga: Kindle Life Sevika: Kalpana Jaswa Contact: Kalpana Jaswa (408) 741-4920 Time: 10:30 am (Thur.)

Sunnyvale: Kathopanishad Sevak: Satish Joshi Contact: Rohini Joshi (408) 730-2596 Time: 8:00 pm (Wed.)

Redwood City: Bhagvad Gita, Ch. 4 Sevak: Sreeharsha Contact: Sunil Jeswani (650) 364-1074 Time: 7:30 pm (Fri.)

Walnut Creek: Bhagavad Gita Ch. 2 Sevak: Vipin Kapadia Contact: Rakesh Bhutani (925) 933-2650 Time: 9:30 am (Sun.)

Prabodhji's Classes at Bala Vihar Locations Fremont: saturdays 1:45 p.m. Bhagavad Gita, Ch 1 (Cont'd) Danville: saturdays 4:45 p.m. Vivekachoodamani (Cont'd) San Jose: session 1 Bhagavad Gita, Ch 8 (Cont'd) session 2 Panchadashi, Ch 4 (Cont'd)

Prabodhji's Classes at Sandeepany Mondays & Wednesdays: 10-11:30 a.m. Yoga Vasishta (Continued) Tuesdays & Thursdays: 6:30-7:30 a.m. Mundaka Upanishad (Beginning) Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Vivekachoodamani (Beginning) Saturdays: 6:30-8:30 a.m. Mundaka Upanishad (Beginning)

31 Swami Tejomayananada’s Itinerary 2009

Date Location/Event Phone

Oct 1-6 Sunil Kothari (91-836) 237-2181, -2300 Hubli, Karnataka

Oct 7-10 Tumkur, Karnataka (91) 97637 23824 Chinmaya Mission

Oct 11-19 Mumbai (91-22) 2857-8647 Chinmaya Mission

Oct 20- Chinmaya Dham (91) 981-940-4990

Nov 12 Yatra

Nov 15-20 Mumbai (91-22) 2857-8647

Chinmaya Mission

Nov 21-27 Rourkela, Orissa (91-661) 248-0970, -1556 Chinmaya Vidyalaya

Nov 28 - 30 Orissa [email protected]

Dec 1 - 7 Kolkota (91-33) 2287 5424

Dec 6 - 13 Guwahati (91-361) 222 1673

Dec 15 - 17 Mumbai (91-22) 2857 8647

Dec 21 - 23 Houston (1-281) 980 6010

Dec 24 - 30 Dallas (1-972) 267 6198

Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2010 Return to India

32 His life itself is a scripture, his words are hymns, his actions are blessings upon the world. He is the fulfilled, the perfect. In such an accomplished man, we watch God and His play.

~ Swami Chinmayananda (Describing a God-realized soul)

Join the Chinmaya Family as SPONSORS… We invite you to join our Sponsorship program so that you can help us to promote, sustain and continue to teach adults and children, alike, the Hindu Dharma which is our Heritage. Chinmaya Mission began its service to the Hindu Community some 20 years ago in the Bay Area.We are funded by public contributions. Your contribution, as a Sponsor, goes towards the operation of Sandeepany. Many families who are taking part in the various classes that we offer to adults and children, have enrolled themselves as Sponsors. They enjoy many benefits and become an integral part of the spiritual family at Sandeepany. Sponsorship is an annual contribution of $500 per family. The donation is tax deductible and can also be paid bi-annually, quarterly or monthly. What Do Our Sponsors Receive? • They enjoy all the classes offered at Sandeepany Schools for adults and children. • They will receive the journal, MANANAM and the bi-monthly Newsletters: Chinmaya Tej and CMW Newsletter. • Sponsors are invited to attend Weekend Retreats held periodically at Sandeepany.

United Way Contributions Your contributions to United Way can now be designated to Chinmaya Mission San Jose (United Way I.D. No 212100). The Mission is enrolled to receive such contributions with United Way Agency in Santa Clara. Chinmaya Family would like to thank you for your support. If travelling South on 101 se Take Guadalupe Expressway Exit

Jo Then go past the airport about two (2) miles and get off at

an Park Ave. exit

y S At the bottom of the ramp, and at the light, make a right turn

If travelling South on 280 Take the Meridian North Exit Go to Park Ave. and make a right turn

andeepanIf travelling South on 880 Take the 280 exit to San Jose o S t

Get off at the Meridian North Exit Go to Park Ave. and make a right turn ns

o If travelling South on 680 ti

c Get off at Race Street Exit At the bottom of the ramp, at the light, make a right turn ire Go to Park Ave. (3rd light) and make a right D

Non-Profit Chinmaya Mission Organization San Jose U.S. Postage Sandeepany San Jose PAID Piercy, CA 1050 Park Avenue San Jose, CA 95126 Ph. (408) 998-2793 Fax (408) 998-2952