Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh has been displaying this
appreciation for our teachers here in the United States through the Guru Vandana program, an annual event
which offers Hindu students an opportunity to honor and recognize their
teachers and their role in shaping who they have become.
These programs consist
of inviting educators to our shakhas and honoring them in our Hindu tradition.
Educators are treated to cultural performances, traditional food, and mementos
among other things which differ from shakha to shakha. Teachers from the
elementary to high school levels, principals, and even district superintendents
have all participated in these activities with very positive feedback.
Perhaps the most instrumental external influence on the
dreams, aspirations, and character of a boy or girl comes from that of a
teacher. Teachers spend more time with children than even their parents, and
undoubtedtly impact their upbringing to a level which is felt even after they
have left the stages of student hood. In our Hindu culture, this amount of
responsibility of the shaping of young minds we have bestowed upon our teachers,
or gurus, is greatly revered and
respected.
Guru Vandana 2016 participation was outstanding. A total of over
740 teachers participated in Guru Vandana celebrations across the United States.
255 teachers from Southwest zone, 190 teachers from West Coast zone, 150
teachers from Midwest zone, 84 teachers from South East zone, and 60 teachers
from East Coast zone participated. Number of principals and school
superintendents also participated across the country.
Students at shakhas across the United States expressed their
gratitude during this event in a variety of different ways. In Aarya Chanakya
shakha at Troy, Michigan, students gave teachers a plaque, certificate, book,
flower, and even a personalized letter attesting their appreciation. In
Bloomington, IL, a comedic Sanskrit skit was performed as well as special
mementos ordered from Bharat. At Arjun shakha in Orlando, FL, kids expressed
their reverence for their teachers and appreciation for knowledge by performing
an elaborate dance done in a classical style, evoking Ganesh, Saraswasti,
Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. These are just a few examples out of many other acts
of gratitude.
Often, teachers learn just as much from teaching itself as
their students do. This relationship was reflected in many Guru Vandana events
as well. In Abhimanyu shakha of Schaumburg, IL, students from the ages of 5 to
13 created and displayed posters covering various aspects of Hindu dharma,
including yoga, Ayurveda, and Hindu contribution to the sciences among others.
In the Houston area, teachers were exposed to the rich performing arts culture
of Bharat, truly highlighting the importance of a well-rounded education. Guru
Vandana programs included Kuchipudi and Odissi dance performances, and guests
participated in a Garba dance as well as learning Bhangra dance steps. In Carmel,
IN, teachers were treated to a Carnatic music performance. At Anand shakha in
the Dallas area, teachers were given a history lesson thorough a skit presented
by Baaala gana on Shivaji Maharaj and his relationship with his first guru, his
mother.
The guru is a central pillar to Hindu philosophy
and history, as all of our great men and women were given the tools
necessary to protect, enhance, or promote Hindu dharma by educators,
whether they be a caring mother, wise Sadhu, or any other individual
with the ability to impart valuable knowledge. In today’s world the
shaping of the next generation of leaders and greats lies in the hands
of our school teachers, nurturing and educating our children so they can
succeed and help others to do so. Guru Vandana 2016 has been a
successful step in showing our appreciation for these modern day gurus.
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