https://vahids.medium.com/keeping-the-sacred-flame-alive-the-dhupa-deepa-naivedyam-initiative-of-the-global-hindu-heritage-0cedd21998e4 ​​​​​​​A Wider Reach: 200 Temples, 22 Mandals The programme has also been carried out on a larger scale in the former West Godavari district.In collaboration with the Hyndavi Temples Trust, GHHF coordinated the distribution of puja materials for regular incense-offering services in 200 temples serving SC and ST colonies. The work extended across villages in 22 mandals, including Narasapuram, Marteru, Attili, Eluru, Nallajarla, Unguturu, Tanuku and Peravali, among others.For each of these temples, the objective was essentially the same: to make it possible for regular worship to continue without financial hardship becoming an obstacle.It is easy to measure a project in terms of kits distributed or temples reached. The harder question is what those numbers mean.Perhaps it means that 200 temples have another opportunity to remain active. Perhaps it means that hundreds of communities are reminded that their places of worship matter. Perhaps it means that children growing up in those villages will continue to see a lamp burning in the temple as naturally as their parents and grandparents did.That is the real measure of cultural preservation. Protecting the Hindu Villages from Conversion and Proselytization GHHF also views the preservation of village temples within the wider context of religious conversion and proselytization.The organization has expressed concern that vulnerable communities may be exposed to conversion efforts through various inducements and has highlighted border regions and coastal communities, including fishing villages, in this regard.The Foundation believes that strengthening existing Hindu religious and cultural institutions can help communities retain their identity and continue practising their inherited traditions.From its perspective, ensuring that a temple remains active is therefore part of a broader effort to preserve cultural continuity and strengthen community cohesion, peace and harmony.This approach is especially relevant in villages where economic circumstances may make religious and cultural institutions more vulnerable.A temple that remains active provides not only a place of worship but also a visible connection to the community’s inherited traditions.It is in this larger context that the Dhupa Deepa Naivedyam initiative assumes its significance.By providing essential puja materials, GHHF aims to help village temples continue their daily worship and supports the preservation of their faith and traditions. How Traditions Disappear There is an old truth about cultural traditions: they rarely disappear all at once. They fade gradually.A festival becomes less frequent. A ritual is no longer performed because the person who knew it has passed away. A temple is visited less often. A lamp is not lit one morning, then another, and eventually the daily practice is forgotten.By the time people realize what has been lost, restoring it can be much harder than preserving it would have been.That is why initiatives such as Nitya Dhupa Deepa Seva can have significance beyond the immediate value of the materials they provide.The service supports the small, repeated acts through which culture survives.A lamp is lit today; a child sees it. The same child grows older and remembers the ritual. Years later, perhaps that child lights the lamp for the next generation.Cultural continuity often works in precisely this quiet way — not through dramatic declarations, but through ordinary practices repeated faithfully until they become part of a community’s identity. The Meaning of Seva For GHHF, this is also the spiritual dimension of seva. The organization regards daily incense and lamp offerings as a meritorious service and believes that supporting temple worship can benefit devotees and their family lineages.More immediately, regular worship can help revive a neglected temple as a spiritual centre, encouraging devotees to return and giving the community renewed interest in its place of worship.There is something deeply appealing about the modesty of the effort.It does not begin with a grand monument or an expensive construction project. It begins with the things a temple needs every day: oil, a wick, incense, camphor, kumkum and turmeric.These are small offerings, but they sustain a much larger inheritance.They help preserve a place where prayers can be said, festivals can be observed, traditions can be remembered and communities can come together. Keeping the Light Alive The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation hopes to continue the work with the cooperation of devotees and well-wishers.Its appeal is ultimately an invitation to participate in a form of service that is both practical and cultural: to help a temple that cannot easily sustain itself, to support its daily worship and to ensure that its traditions remain visible and active.Perhaps that is the most enduring image of the Dhupa Deepa Naivedyam Initiative.Not a statistic, though the numbers matter. Not a list of villages, though every village matters.Instead, picture a small temple at the edge of a village, long before the day’s heat arrives. Someone enters the shrine, prepares the puja and lights the lamp.The flame catches, steadies itself and begins to illuminate the sanctum. The fragrance of incense fills the air. Outside, the village is waking.For a few moments, nothing seems remarkable.And yet something remarkable has happened.A tradition has continued for another day. A community has retained a piece of its inheritance. A child has seen the ritual that his or her elders once saw.And a little light, once again, has kept the darkness at bay. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

In today’s modern world, along with academic education, it is equally important to instill in children respect for their parents, humility towards elders, and an understanding of our rich cultural traditions. With this noble objective, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) organized a Parents’ Padapuja Ceremony near the Sri Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Malyala village, Dhone Mandal, Nandyal District. The programme was organized by GHHF volunteers Tirupal and Chiranjeevi. Sri Rama Rajesh attended the programme as the chief guest and was introduced to the villagers. The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp. The children attending the Bala Samskara Kendra recited the Deepa Mantra they had learned, adding a spiritual touch to the occasion. On this occasion, Sri Rama Rajesh explained the various religious and social service initiatives undertaken by the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation. He highlighted programmes such as Dharma Prachar through household visits, Shiva worship in individual homes, free sewing machine training, providing Dhupa, Deepa and Naivedyam to temples, writing the divine name of God in every household, and conducting Bala Samskara Kendras. He also explained that the Foundation's key objectives include preventing religious conversions, welcoming those who have left Hinduism back into Sanatana Dharma, promoting unity and self-respect among Hindus, creating religious awareness, and passing the greatness of Sanatana Dharma on to future generations. The Parents’ Padapuja ceremony that followed became the most touching moment of the programme. The children lovingly washed and worshipped the feet of their parents and sought their blessings. This beautiful sight deeply moved everyone present. Sharing their happiness and emotions, some parents expressed their feelings, saying, "We have never washed and worshipped our own parents' feet in this manner. We have never witnessed a programme like this before either. Seeing our children wash and worship our feet has given us immense happiness, which is difficult to express in words." The children of the Bala Samskara Kendra also recited the slokas they had learned, demonstrating their knowledge and enthusiasm. The village elders and residents who attended the programme expressed their happiness and appreciation for this meaningful initiative. The primary purpose of such programmes is to cultivate gratitude towards parents, respect for teachers, humility towards elders, and commitment to Dharma from an early age. Only when children learn to respect their parents and value family relationships can our cultural and traditional values be preserved and passed on to future generations. The programme concluded with the distribution of prasadam, followed by the chanting of the Shanti Mantra. Respecting parents is not merely a tradition; it is one of the fundamental pillars of Indian culture. Through such value-based initiatives, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation continues its efforts to nurture cultural awareness, strengthen family values, and instill the principles of Sanatana Dharma in future generations. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle : ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1680}}

https://vahids.medium.com/keeping-the-sacred-flame-alive-the-dhupa-deepa-naivedyam-initiative-of-the-global-hindu-heritage-0cedd21998e4 Vahid S   In a village in rural Bharat, the first signs of morning are often familiar ones: a pale sky, the sounds of people beginning their day, the smell of woodsmoke from a distant kitchen and, from somewhere nearby, the ringing of a temple bell. Inside a small shrine, a devotee or priest prepares for the day’s worship. There may be no ornate entrance, no wealthy endowment and no long queue of pilgrims. The temple may stand quietly among ordinary homes, serving a community whose resources are modest. Yet one ritual remains deeply important. A wick is placed in oil and lit before the deity. Incense is offered. Camphor is kindled. A simple naivedyam is placed before the Lord. For generations, such daily acts have been part of the rhythm of Hindu village life. But what happens when the people have devotion and the temple has a deity, yet there is not enough money even to buy oil for the lamp or incense for the morning puja? In many economically disadvantaged villages, this is not an imaginary problem. Small temples can struggle to maintain their most basic rituals because they have little or no regular financial support. Over time, an unlit lamp can become a silent sign of a larger decline: fewer daily prayers, fewer visitors and a gradual weakening of the temple’s place in community life. It was this reality that led the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) to undertake its Dhupa Deepa Naivedyam Initiative, also known as Nitya Dhupa Deepa Seva. The idea is straightforward: provide temples that need assistance with the essential articles required for regular worship. The puja kits include oil, wicks, incense sticks, camphor, kumkum and turmeric, enabling temples to continue their daily rituals even when their own resources are limited. More than 1,000 temples have received puja materials through this effort. Why a Small Temple Matters The simplicity of the initiative is part of its strength. There is nothing spectacular about a bottle of oil or a packet of incense. Yet in a temple where such basic supplies are difficult to obtain, they can make the difference between a shrine that remains active and one that slowly falls silent. A regular puja gives people a reason to come. A lit lamp restores a familiar sight. The fragrance of incense once again fills the sanctum. Children see their elders worshipping, and the rituals that might otherwise become distant memories remain part of everyday life. For the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation, this is an important dimension of preserving Hindu culture. Gramadevata: The Deity at the Heart of Village Life The village temple is particularly important in this respect. In many communities, the temple is not simply a place where a deity is worshipped; it is a point of cultural reference, a gathering place and a repository of collective memory. Many villagers maintain a special relationship with their Gramadevata, the village deity to whom generations have turned for blessings, protection and well-being. These village deities have traditionally played an important role in bringing communities together, particularly during festivals and times of collective need. The Foundation’s Dhupa Deepa initiative seeks to strengthen precisely this connection. Its purpose is not merely to distribute puja materials but to help ensure that worship remains a living practice. In Hindu tradition, the deepam has a significance that reaches beyond the physical flame. Light is associated with knowledge and the removal of darkness and ignorance. In a temple, therefore, the daily lamp becomes both an act of worship and a visible expression of continuity. When the lamp burns regularly, the temple retains its daily rhythm. When that rhythm returns, devotees have an opportunity to reconnect with the shrine and with one another. A small act of service can therefore have consequences far beyond the object being given. The Mission Behind the Service The Dhupa Deepa Naivedyam programme is one part of a much broader mission undertaken by the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation. GHHF’s stated objective is to protect, preserve, promote and maintain Hindu culture and Hindu temples, mutts, peethams, endowments, trusts and other Hindu institutions globally. The Foundation seeks to pursue this mission through peaceful and appropriate action, including advocacy and legal measures concerning laws, policies and activities that it believes adversely affect Hindu religious institutions. Its work toward temple independence, including its objective of abolishing the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Acts across India, reflects its larger concern that Hindu temples should have greater institutional autonomy. But the work of protecting a civilization is not confined to courtrooms, legislation or public advocacy. It also happens quietly in villages, where traditions survive because ordinary people continue to practise them. That means the lamp must be lit, incense must be offered, festivals must be observed and devotees must have a place where they can continue the customs handed down to them. Taking the Service to the Villages The spirit of the initiative became particularly visible during the celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi, when GHHF distributed Dhupa Deepa Naivedyam puja kits to selected village temples in Dalit communities. Among the beneficiaries were Sri Rama Mandiram at Venkatarama Puram Harijanawada in Penukonda Mandal; Sri Ramalayams at Velagaleru and Marteru Harijanawadas in Penumantra Mandal; Sri Ramalayam at Doddivaripalem Harijanawada in Achanta Mandal; the temple at Peddamallam Gramam, Sirrivaripeta Harijanawada, in Achanta Mandal; Sri Ramalayam at Mulaparru Garuvu Harijanawada in Penukonda Mandal; Sri Ramalayam at Valluru Uttarapalem Harijanawada in Achanta Mandal; Sri Rama Temples at Pekeru and Ogidi Harijanawadas in Iragavaram Mandal; and Sri Ramalayam at Neggipudi Harijanawada in Penumantra Mandal. The names may not be familiar to readers far away. But each represents a community and a place where faith is part of everyday life. The significance of the assistance is therefore best understood not by the cost of the materials but by what they enable. When a temple can conduct its daily puja, a priest or devotee can maintain a routine that may have been followed by the community for decades. When devotees know that the temple will be open and worship will take place, they are more likely to return. And when people return, the temple can once again become a living centre of the village rather than simply a structure that happens to contain a deity. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation believes in imparting the moral values that shape students' personalities, character, and moral fiber. Thus, we run nearly 200 schools for children in nine Indian states, with a mission to share the richness of our heritage through stories drawn from the Panchatantra and other moral tales. This week, our children were taught about the inner meaning of form worship. One day, Aryan, Pragna, Kutil, and Maya were rehearsing together for a play based on Krishna Janmashtami. Kutil refused to play Lord Krishna. Kutil: "I won't play Krishna. They call him God, but our script says he was born in a prison and will die just like us. How can he be God if he faces death like a human being? He might be a great hero, but he isn't God." Maya, too, became confused and voiced her doubt: "That's true! Even Rama died. How can God die? Are we supposed to believe that only this idol—this physical form—is God?" Pragna immediately countered, "No! What we see is merely the form; there is a great power behind that form." Hearing this argument, Aryan took the matter to their teacher. "Master," he asked, "even though incarnations like Krishna and Rama were God Himself, why did they also face death? Is there any truth in Kutil's argument?" The Guru smiled and gave them an example: "My dear friends, you all watch movies, don't you? A great actor never changes his true self. Yet, in one movie he might play a king, in another a poor man, and in yet another, a beggar. Even if the king dies, the actor himself does not, right? God is just like that." Explaining that Lord Sri Krishna conveys this very concept in the Bhagavad Gita to help us understand, the Guru then expounded upon verse 7.24 of the Bhagavad Gita. Verse:  Avyaktam Vyaktimaapannam Manyante Maamabuddhayah |             Param Bhaavamajaananto Mamaavyayamanuttamam || 24 || "O Kutila and Maya! The birth and death of incarnations like Rama and Krishna that you witness are merely a divine play (Lila). Only those unable to perceive the true power of the imperishable, unchanging, and invisible (Avyaya) God mistake Him for a mere human being." "The underlying purpose behind His assuming these forms is 'punishing the wicked and protecting the righteous'—that is, to chastise evil and safeguard goodness. Whenever righteousness declines in the world, He manifests in a specific form; once that mission is accomplished, He reverts to His infinite (Anuttama) state of power, much like an actor shedding a costume. That is why we should worship not the physical form itself, but the infinite power that lies behind it." Avatars like Rama and Krishna are divine forms the Supreme Being assumes. Although we see their birth and death, these events do not apply to the true nature of the Divine. An avatar is merely a form adopted for a specific purpose; even when that form ceases to exist, the Divine's infinite power remains indestructible. Realizing their mistake, Kutil and Maya decided that when performing the role of God in the play, they would not treat it merely as a character but would keep in mind the great power behind that form. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1679}}

https://vahids.medium.com/when-noise-becomes-a-public-health-concern-ghhfs-campaign-for-responsible-loudspeaker-use-02c690217652 Vahid S Noise pollution is often treated as a minor inconvenience, but for people living in densely populated residential areas, prolonged or excessive sound can become a serious disturbance to everyday life. Early-morning loudspeakers, repeated announcements and amplified religious programmes can be particularly difficult for people who work late shifts, children, senior citizens and those who need uninterrupted rest. The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) has been raising concerns about excessive loudspeaker use since 2021, calling for regulations governing amplified sound to be enforced consistently across religious and community institutions. The Growing Concern Over Loudspeakers One issue specifically highlighted by GHHF is the use of loudspeakers at mosques for Azaan, particularly during early-morning hours. GHHF has argued that residents should not have their sleep and daily routines disrupted by excessive amplified sound when they are within their homes. This can be particularly challenging for people who work late-night or night-shift jobs. Someone returning home after working through the night may depend on those morning hours for sleep. Children, elderly residents and families with young children can also be affected by repeated high-volume sound. The concern, however, is broader than any one religious community. Temples, mosques, churches and other institutions using loudspeakers should all follow the applicable noise regulations. The issue is not the right to worship, but the excessive amplification of religious activities in residential neighbourhoods. What Does the Law Say? India’s Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 establish different ambient noise standards depending on the character of an area. For residential areas, the prescribed limit is 55 dB(A) during the daytime and 45 dB(A) at night. Daytime is defined as 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., while nighttime runs from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. The rules also regulate the use of loudspeakers and public-address systems. Their use generally requires written permission from the designated authority, while their use during nighttime hours is subject to restrictions and specified exceptions. The underlying principle is simple: religious expression and public activities must operate within the framework of laws designed to protect the wider community. GHHF’s Efforts in Andhra Pradesh According to GHHF’s account, the organization began actively pursuing complaints about excessive loudspeaker use in 2021. One case involved residents of Nakka Rameswaram village in East Godavari district, who complained about high-volume loudspeakers being used by a church. After repeated complaints to local authorities, the matter was eventually taken up by the police. GHHF says that the pastor was asked to provide an undertaking that loudspeakers would not be used in a manner that disturbed residents. Raising the Issue in Assam GHHF also raised concerns in Assam in 2022 regarding loudspeaker use for Azaan at mosques during nighttime and early-morning hours. The organization’s Assam representatives submitted a memorandum to the district administration and Pollution Control Board, seeking enforcement of existing noise regulations. GHHF says that following discussions with the administration, mosque committees were instructed to avoid loudspeaker use for Azaan during the restricted nighttime and early-morning periods. For GHHF, this represented an example of how administrative intervention can address residents’ concerns without preventing religious communities from continuing their regular practices. A Question of Equal Enforcement The larger issue is not whether a particular community should be allowed to pray. It is whether the same noise regulations should apply equally to everyone. A mosque should be able to conduct Azaan, just as a temple can conduct prayers and a church can conduct services. At the same time, amplified sound should remain within the limits prescribed by law so that surrounding residents can sleep, study, work and carry on with their daily lives. This is especially important in residential areas where homes, schools, hospitals and places of worship exist close to one another. Protecting the Right to Peace and Rest For someone who works late into the night, an early-morning loudspeaker can mean losing the only available hours for sleep. For students, elderly people, young children or people who are unwell, persistent noise can similarly affect their wellbeing and quality of life. GHHF’s campaign therefore frames loudspeaker regulation as a civic and public-health concern rather than simply a religious dispute. The goal should be a reasonable balance: religious practices can continue, but excessive amplified noise should not come at the expense of another person’s right to peaceful living. Ultimately, the principle is straightforward: religious freedom should be respected, and noise regulations should be respected as well — consistently, fairly and without discrimination. Donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation screened two documentaries on October 25 at the Cinemark Theater in Plano, TX. Chetana Productions carefully documented the activities, looking back over the past 20 years, visiting several places in Bharat, and speaking with villagers, Pracharaks, teachers, and students. More than 100 people filled the auditorium and watched the documentaries with great interest and curiosity.  Appreciation is accorded to Suchetan Swaroop Vaidyanathan of Chetana Productions, who produced these two documentaries: “Dharma at Work” and “The Man Who Came to Serve". The idea came up when Suchetan and Chandra Movva were discussing a movie script. They thought Suchetan should make a short documentary about GHHF's 20 years of work in villages across nine states. For more than three months, Suchetan was fully immersed in this work, spending countless hours finding the right people for narration, music, and editing, and revising the script. GHHF is extremely grateful for his dedicated and unflinching work.  Following the screening of these two documentaries, several people expressed their views on watching the documentaries, the extent of work done by GHHF over the years, the commitment and dedication of Dr. Prakasarao, and why we should work together to protect Sanatan Dharma. Silveri Srisailam, affiliated with Prime 9, has shared numerous videos on the channel. He came all the way from India to watch the documentaries and set up a booth for people to share their views. He interviewed about 20 people who shared their views, admired GHHF's work over the last twenty years, compared Prakasa Rao’s work with many historical figures and religious leaders, and wished him a long life to continue even more. The commitment and passion to promote Sanatana Dharma and the 16 activities of GHHF are highly commendable and admirable. A few YouTube videos are listed below. We will publish a few more in the next few days. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EwE-aLrWco https://youtu.be/aN6PxUxFi0A?si=kWaWSRZUn-dPLUyv https://youtu.be/T8yTR22CFZA?si=nKpk_kiKG0A6wtaj https://youtu.be/ET2YsBF6JQ0?si=iFqk9cd1gxWptrVW https://youtu.be/2pNeZUW8z_U?si=XZZNJCa6AEDuqVe9 https://youtu.be/UgouKjHYaPU?si=gWF_6BYC0TdzkRZm https://youtu.be/V0G4ZlE9PfI?si=NaRk__QTW97OsuER https://youtu.be/8TlgIjeTxYg?si=-wQApAY3ZXcuro48 https://youtu.be/TY5ndyDF1fI?si=kK6L9_uWdwCcBBP5 https://youtu.be/VKL1HWKyZj0?si=9RYg149M_MbqRLJZ Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

https://bharatobserver.in/dr-prakasarao-velagapudi-honoured-by-andhra-university-for-service-to-society/  A Distinguished Honour at Andhra University’s Centennial Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi, Founder President of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF), received the Distinguished Alumni Award for Service to Society and Philanthropy at Andhra University’s centennial celebrations held in Houston, Texas, on 10 October 2026. The celebration marked 100 years of Andhra University’s contribution to education and public life under the theme “A Century of Excellence, Paving the Path Forward.” More than 25 alumni were recognised for their achievements across fields including science, technology, education, business, literature, leadership, and philanthropy. Dr. Velagapudi received the award from Andhra University Vice-Chancellor Sai Rachakonda, alongside Ravindranath Duggirala and Phaneendra Kondapi. The recognition celebrates a journey that combines academic achievement with decades of spiritual service, temple development, and community initiatives. From Academic Excellence to Spiritual Service Dr. Velagapudi studied at Hindu College and National College in Machilipatnam before earning his master’s degree in Rural Development and Economics from Andhra University in 1963. After working at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies in New Delhi, he moved to the United States in 1965, completed his PhD, and spent 36 years in academia before retiring in 2006. His involvement in Hindu religious and spiritual activities grew over several decades. He was a founding member of the Hindu Temple Society of Mississippi and served as its president from 1986 to 1991. During this period, a 7,000-square-foot Hindu temple was built and consecrated in 1990, with Lord Venkateshwara as the principal deity. He later played an important role in the development of Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple in Frisco, Texas. At the direction of Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji, he moved to Frisco in 2009 to help coordinate the planning and construction of a 32,000-square-foot temple. He also supported Hindu educational activities and delivered lectures on Hinduism to American audiences, high school students, and college students. Dr. Velagapudi served as chairman of Datta Yoga Center in the United States from 1993 until April 2022, coordinating activities across temples, retreat facilities, and satsang groups. GHHF and Its Grassroots Mission in India In 2006, Dr. Velagapudi helped establish the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation with a group of professionals in the United States. The organisation focuses on Hindu heritage preservation, temple development, cultural education, and community support in India. GHHF reports operating approximately 175 Bala Samskar Kendras across nine Indian states, providing moral and cultural education to around 4,500 children. Through these centres, children learn about Sanatana Dharma, traditional stories, discipline, respect for elders, and ethical values. The foundation also supports the construction and renovation of village temples, including Gramadevata shrines, and provides assistance for rural religious services. Its wider community initiatives include free tailoring training for women, vegetable-cart distribution to support livelihoods, Annadanam, flood relief, Gau Puja, and programmes encouraging respect for parents through Pada Puja. According to GHHF, it has built or renovated approximately 65 village temples and continues to expand its grassroots activities. These initiatives reflect the foundation’s approach of connecting cultural preservation with practical community engagement. Empowering Communities Through Education and Service For GHHF, preserving heritage also means ensuring that cultural knowledge continues to reach younger generations. Its Bala Samskar Kendras provide opportunities for children to learn traditional values through stories and activities, while its vocational training programmes aim to help women develop practical skills and explore income-generating opportunities. The organisation’s village-level work brings together religious institutions, volunteers, families, and local communities. Through these efforts, GHHF seeks to sustain Hindu traditions while contributing to education, livelihoods, and social support. Dr. Velagapudi’s work across the United States and India reflects a long-standing commitment to institution-building and service. His Distinguished Alumni Award recognises not only his academic background but also his continued involvement in cultural and philanthropic initiatives. A Legacy of Service and Commitment Andhra University’s centennial celebrations honoured alumni whose achievements have extended beyond their professions into wider society. For Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi, the recognition marks a significant milestone in a journey spanning academia, Hindu temple development, spiritual education, and grassroots community work. As Founder President of GHHF, he remains associated with initiatives focused on temple preservation, children’s cultural education, women’s empowerment, and rural community support. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Honoring Maharshi Valmiki Celebrating Maharshi Valmiki’s birth on Ashwayuja Shukla Purnima – October 25. On Ashwayuja Shukla Purnima, we honor Maharshi Valmiki, the Adi Kavi (first poet), who gave the world the Ramayana and the ideals of Sri Rama and Dharma. His life is also a timeless lesson in transformation, discipline, compassion, and sharing wisdom with future generations. From Ratnakara to Valmiki Before becoming a sage, Valmiki was Ratnakara, a forest robber who believed his actions were justified because he was supporting his family. His life changed when he encountered Sage Narada. Narada asked whether Ratnakara’s family would share the consequences of the sins he committed. When Ratnakara questioned them, they replied that supporting them was his duty, but the consequences of his actions were his alone. This truth shook Ratnakara. Accepting responsibility, he returned to Narada and asked how he could change. Narada guided him to chant “Sri Rama,” and Ratnakara left his former life to undertake intense penance. Years passed while he remained absorbed in spiritual practice. Ants built an anthill around him, yet his concentration did not waver. When he emerged, he was transformed and became known as Valmiki, from the Sanskrit word valmika, meaning anthill. His transformation teaches that the past does not permanently define a person. Through awareness, resolve, disciplined effort, and guidance, anyone can acknowledge mistakes and choose a better path. Valmiki’s life therefore offers children a message of hope: sincere change is possible when reflection is followed by steady practice. Compassion and the First Shloka Later, while walking to the Tamasa River with his disciple Bharadwaja, Valmiki saw a joyful pair of Krauncha birds. A hunter killed the male, and the female cried out in anguish. Deeply moved by the suffering of the small bird, Valmiki spontaneously uttered a shloka: His grief became poetry, showing how compassion can turn pain into art and wisdom.             “Maa Nishaada Pratishthaam Tvamagamah Shaashvateeh Samaah |                Yat Krauncha Mithunaadekam Avadheeh Kaama Mohitam ||” This first poetic verse established Valmiki as the Adi Kavi. The episode teaches that compassion should extend beyond human beings to animals, birds, and nature. A heart touched by the suffering of a voiceless creature inspired a magnificent epic. The Ideal of Sri Rama Before composing the Ramayana, Valmiki asked Narada whether anyone in the world fully embodied sixteen noble qualities, including virtue, courage, truthfulness, gratitude, self-control, wisdom, compassion, exemplary conduct, and commitment to righteousness. Narada answered that Sri Rama possessed all these qualities. Inspired to show the world how an ideal person lives and practices Dharma, Valmiki resolved to compose Sri Rama’s life as the Ramayana. The Ramayana contains 24,000 verses and is traditionally associated with the “Gayatri Ramayana,” which links the syllables of the Gayatri Mantra to every thousand verses. More than a story, the epic teaches respect for parents, fidelity to one’s word, fraternal love, friendship, sacrifice, truth, courage, Dharma, and the duties of a ruler. Passing Wisdom to Future Generations Valmiki also ensured that this wisdom reached future generations. In his ashram, Lava and Kusha learned, understood, memorized, and recited the epic melodiously. Their dedication reminds children that true learning is not rote repetition alone; it requires understanding, regular practice, correct expression, and heartfelt engagement. Valmiki’s journey brings these lessons together. Ratnakara recognized his wrongdoing, accepted Narada’s guidance, and transformed himself through penance. Compassion gave rise to the first poetic verse; the search for an ideal human being inspired the Ramayana; and teaching Lava and Kusha carried its wisdom forward. A Lasting Message for Everyone Valmiki Jayanti is therefore more than a commemoration. It invites each of us to resolve: “I can change, learn something good each day, admit and correct my mistakes, meet difficult tasks with focus, feel the suffering of others, and share what I learn.” The transformation from Ratnakara to Valmiki reveals a lasting truth: our past need not determine our final identity. Through wise choices, disciplined effort, knowledge, and compassion, every person can elevate life toward goodness and greatness. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1678}}

Global Hindu Heritage Foundation showed two documentaries on October 25 at the Cinemark Theater in Plano, TX. Chetana Productions carefully documented the activities, looking back over the past 20 years, visiting several places in Bharat, and speaking with villagers, Pracharaks, teachers, and students. More than 100 people filled the auditorium and watched the documentaries with great interest and curiosity. Several viewers shared their observations after the show, and Prime 9 TV anchor Silveri Srisailam recorded their views. Suchetan Swaroop Vaidyanathan of Chetana Productions produced these two documentaries: “Dharma at Work” and “The Man Who Came to Serve. The idea came up when Suchetan and Chandra Movva were discussing a movie script. They thought Suchetan should make a short documentary about GHHF's 20 years of work in villages across nine states. The five-minute production concept expanded to a one-hour documentary on GHHF and a 25-minute documentary on Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi’s journey into Sanatan Dharma. Swaroop and his team deserve congratulations for their commitment, dedication, and passion in producing these two documentaries in less than three months.  They spent countless hours sifting through documents and pictures spanning more than 50 years to ensure factual accuracy. Dharma at Work: GHHF This one-hour documentary examined 16 activities the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation has conducted over the last 20 years, and it has expanded over time.  The documentary is divided into eight chapters that cover numerous activities at different levels, over time, and across different States in Bharat. 1) One Man, One Mission, 2) The Fight for Temples Freedom, 3) The Children – Bala Samskar Kendras, 4) Gahr Wapasi – Home Coming, 5) Dharma on Screen – Short Film Festival, 6) Service in Crisis, 7) 2022 Frisco Controversy, 8) Chicago Protest May 2007, and other topics. This documentary covered 16 activities: nine state activities, Recommendations submitted to government officials, Bala Samskar Kendras, feeding children every day, Ghar Wapsi activities, COVID-19 activities including serving meals and supplying machines, serving flood victims, and helping Pakistan refugees. The dignitaries who recognized and appreciated GHHF's service include Hon. Rahurama Ramakrishnam Raju, Sri L. V Gangadhara Sastry, Dr. H. R Nagendra, Dr. Manjunath Sharma, Sri Sajay Khanna, Sri Lalit Sharma, and Sri Shree Iyer.  The Man Who Came to Serve:  The 25-minute documentary traces the spiritual journey of Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi into Sanatan Dharma. The chapters include The Making of a Scholar; Two Degrees and a New World; The Women Behind the Mission, Dr. Nandini Velagapudi; Building the First Temple in Jackson, MS; Meeting of Sri Sachidanand Swamiji; the Hanuman Temple; The Scholar Who Kept Writing; and Recognitions Received. This documentary traces the incident that sparked his interest in learning Sanatana, his efforts to learn and pass it on to the next generation, his marriage, the building of Temples, his association with Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji, and the founding of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation.  His work was appreciated by Sri Viswamjee Maharaj, Dr. N. R. Nagendra, Dr. Thotakura Prasad, Sri Nandanandana Dasa, and Smt. Madhavi Latha Kompella. After screening the documentaries, many shared their views on the activities and the professional presentation. Some of the comments by the viewers: •    Thank you for the documentary this will surely instill the zeal to join hands and make Prakash Rao’s efforts to the next level. •    As rightly put, it is the Dharma of each Sanantani to practice “Dharma and put it to work.” •    Kudos to Swaroop, who has highlighted the facts and presented them in a very comprehensible manner. •    I never knew who Prakash Rao Velagapudi Garu. Great to hear about him and his selfless contributions to Bharat across so many states. Acknowledgments The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported its mission over the past 20 years, including: •    Everyone who attended the documentary screenings and shared thoughtful comments; •    Supporters in Bharat who have helped advance the Foundation’s work; •    Teachers and Pracharaks who have carried its mission into local communities; •    Volunteers in the United States and Bharat; and •    The countless individuals whose dedication and encouragement have sustained the Foundation’s efforts.   {{album_1677}}

 On October 24, Sri Nainar Nagendran visited the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple and later visited Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi's residence, where he was honored.  Nainar Nagendran is a prominent political figure from Tamil Nadu and has long been with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He is the MLA for the Tirunelveli constituency and has made his mark in the legislature and in regional development. As a former minister in the Tamil Nadu government, Nagendran is well known for his contributions to infrastructure development, urban planning, and social welfare. Nagendran remains a driving force behind the BJP's expansion in Tamil Nadu's southern districts. Born on October 16, 1960, in Vadiveeswaram, Nagendran started his career with the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK, serving as a member of the legislative assembly from the Tirunelveli constituency. He served as a cabinet minister from 2001 to 2006, when Jayalalithaa was chief minister, holding the portfolios of Electricity, Industry, and Transport. Nagendran left the AIADMK to join the BJP in 2017, soon after Jayalalithaa’s death.  Nainar Nagendran served as the vice president of Tamil Nadu BJP from 2020 and won the 2021 assembly elections on the party ticket from the Tirunelveli constituency. Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi briefly explained the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation's 20th anniversary, its origins, and its mission. On August 23, 2006, I was reading a newspaper in Vijayawada and learned that the then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Sri Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, issued G. O. 21, allocating crores of rupees to build new Churches and renovate old Ones. That really shook me up. Within three days, he went to Hyderabad, found two lawyers, and got a stay order from the High Court. Then he returned to the US and, with eight other passionate, professional Hindus, started the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation.  He expressed his concern about the Hindus' apathy and indifference to Hinduism. Many Hindus do not call themselves Hindus. It appears they are ashamed of their religion. Hindus alone can undermine Hinduism. They are failing in their responsibility to protect Sanatan Dharma's richness. Every Hindu parent should take full responsibility for raising their children by imparting eternal wisdom to the next generation. Hindus have not learned the lessons of history here; they ruled us for 600 years. Our Sanatana Dharma and Bharat are being attacked every day, and we remain silent. Muslim population is increasing day by day, while the Hindu population is declining year after year.  Every Hindu should take pride in the richness of Sanatana Dharma and accept responsibility for protecting Bharat and its spiritual heritage. Our motherland faces persistent challenges from other faiths, secularists, atheists, and the liberal media. Hindus must reflect on how they are defending it, because time is running short. For the sake of humanity, every Hindu should help protect, preserve, and promote Sanatana Dharma. Sri Nainar Nagendra briefly said he agreed with our assessment, appreciated GHHF's efforts, and thanked it for its work in Bharat. He was accompanied by more than 25 ardent followers who organized his programs in the Dallas area for two days.  {{album_1676}}