Once upon a time, in a village, Aryan and Pragna were good friends. They both studied hard and listened to their elders. But two other children from their village, Kutil and Maya, were lazy, mischievous, and always focused on playing. One day, as Aryan and Pragna were preparing for an important exam, Kutil and Maya came to them. "Why are you working so hard? There's still plenty of time until the exam. Come on, let's all go watch a movie. It's okay to have fun for just a few hours a day," they said. At first, Aryan and Pragna's minds told them, "No, we should study." But Kutil and Maya were so convincing that their minds were also swayed. Thinking, "It's just one day; what will happen?" Aryan and Pragna went along. That one day of playing and watching a movie slowly became a habit. Aryan and Pragna's minds also got used to laziness. Their minds started giving them bad advice, saying, "Studying is hard work; it will make you tired. Playing games brings more happiness." Gradually, their minds became their enemies and led them down a destructive path. When the exams came, Aryan and Pragna, just like Kutil and Maya, failed. They felt very sad and ashamed. Kutil and Maya also failed, but they were used to the pain. However, Aryan and Pragna realized their mistake and told their parents what had happened.Their parents were not angry. Instead, they shared a verse from the Bhagavad Gita, which Lord Sri Krishna taught for humanity's good. Sloka: uddhared ātmanātmānaṁ nātmānam avasādayet| ātmaiva hyātmano bandhur ātmaiva ripur ātmanaḥ|| (6.5) The parents explained the meaning of this verse in a way they could understand:  "As this sloka says, our own mind can elevate us or cause our downfall. We must uplift ourselves and not let ourselves fall into a low state.” Kutil and Maya may be your friends, but when you listen to their bad ideas, your mind becomes an enemy that would destroy you. Just as an enemy always tries to harm us, your mind does the same. But when you use your intellect and decide to work hard, your mind becomes a good friend. A friend always wants to do good for us and see us grow in life." These words opened Aryan and Pragna's eyes. They decided to use their intellect from now on and control the negative thoughts in their minds. For the next year's exam, they studied hard, and their minds guided them on the right path. In the end, they passed the exam and felt happy and at peace. Main Message: Our mind can act as our best friend or our worst enemy. If we use our intellect to control our mind, it will guide us on a noble path. We become our own friends. But if we fall into the illusion of the mind, we become our own enemy. Teacher Tasks: Discussion after the story: ●    How did the minds of Aryan and Pragnya initially become an enemy to them in this story? Answer: Listening to the words of Kutil and Maya, they stopped studying and got used to games and movies. As a result, their minds led them down the wrong path, causing them to fail the test. ●    How did they turn their mind back into good friends? Answer: Realizing their mistake, they decided to study hard following the guidance of their elders. Because of this, their mind guided them back onto the right path. ●    What do you do when your mind tells you to do a bad thing? Answer: I think with my intellect and stay away from bad actions. I listen to the advice of elders and make the right decision. ●    How can we prevent ourselves from becoming our own enemy? Answer: By keeping the mind under control, cultivating good thoughts, working hard, and living righteously. Practical Activity: ●    Ask the children to create a small plan to control their minds. For example, tell them to start a good task (like reading a lesson or drawing a picture). If their mind wanders, they should repeat to themselves, "I am not my mind's enemy, I am its friend," and try to complete the task. ●    After they finish the task, discuss the feeling of happiness and peace they experienced in the next class. Character Analysis: ●    Aryan and Pragna: What was their mistake? How did they realize it? ●    Kutil and Maya: What kind of harm did their behavior cause to them and others? Sloka Repetition: Have the children repeat the Bhagavad Gita sloka from the story. Ask them to explain the meaning of the sloka in their own words. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1659}}

https://bharatobserver.in/pada-puja-to-parents-honouring-parents-preserving-timeless-values/ [NOTE: This is an article published in Bharat Observer regarding Global Hindu Heritage Foundation efforts to revive the traditional custom pertaining to the performance of Pada Puja to parents, expressing their respect toward parents] 2026/08/17  Sai Srinivas Keeping an Age-Old Tradition Alive Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) is committed to helping children discover the richness, wisdom, and timeless values of Sanatana Dharma. Through Bala Samskar classes, our young students are introduced to Hindu scriptures, stories, traditions, and the profound values that have guided generations. Our children learn about the nature of the Divine, the qualities of our Devas and Devis, the significance of different Avataras, and the lives and virtues of great figures such as Lord Rama. More importantly, they are encouraged to understand these teachings not merely as stories, but as values that can be practised in everyday life. One such beautiful tradition is Pada Puja to Parents—an expression of gratitude, humility, respect, and reverence towards one’s parents. Parents: Our First Teachers and Guides In Sanatana Dharma, parents hold a deeply respected place in a child’s life. They are among our first teachers, protectors, guides, and role models. The traditional teaching “Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava” reminds us to regard our mother and father with the highest respect. Before a child learns from a classroom teacher, parents teach them their first words, values, habits, responsibilities, and lessons about life. They make countless sacrifices to provide their children with opportunities, security, education, and a better future. Teaching young people to respect their parents is therefore not simply about following an old custom. It is about cultivating gratitude, humility, compassion, responsibility, and family values—qualities that remain essential throughout life. The Significance of Pada Puja Pada Puja is a traditional practice through which children express their gratitude and reverence towards their parents. By bowing before their parents and seeking their blessings, children are reminded of the profound role their parents have played in their lives. The gesture carries a powerful message: we should never become so successful that we forget the people who helped us reach where we are. For young people growing up in a rapidly changing world, such practices can create a meaningful connection with their family, heritage, and spiritual roots. They remind children that progress and modernity need not mean abandoning the values passed down through generations. The Deeper Meaning of Touching the Feet The practice of Padasparshan, or touching the feet of elders, represents humility and respect. The child bows before the elder, acknowledging their experience, guidance, and blessings. Traditional explanations also associate the practice with the flow of positive energy and blessings between the younger and elder generations. Whether understood spiritually or symbolically, the act represents an exchange of respect, goodwill, blessings, and positive intentions. The elder’s blessing upon the child further reinforces this beautiful relationship: the younger generation approaches with humility, while the elder responds with affection, wisdom, and blessings. How Pada Sparshan Is Traditionally Performed To seek the blessings of an elder, the child traditionally bends forward and reaches towards the elder’s feet without bending the knees. The hands are positioned so that the right hand touches the elder’s left foot and the left hand touches the elder’s right foot. The elder then places their right hand upon the child’s head and offers their blessings. The physical gesture is simple, but its meaning is profound. It teaches children to approach their elders with humility rather than pride, gratitude rather than entitlement, and respect rather than indifference. Teaching the Youth the Values of Sanatana Dharma Sanatana Dharma is not merely a collection of rituals. It is a way of life rooted in dharma, gratitude, self-discipline, compassion, humility, responsibility, and respect for all living beings. When children learn to respect their parents, they are learning one of the foundational values of this tradition. In an age when young people are increasingly influenced by rapidly changing social and digital environments, preserving meaningful family traditions can help them remain connected to their roots. Practices such as Pada Puja provide children with an opportunity to pause, reflect, express gratitude, and understand the sacrifices made by their parents. Through Bala Samskar, GHHF strives to make these timeless values accessible to the younger generation—not simply by teaching them what our traditions are, but by encouraging them to experience, understand, and practise them. Passing the Torch to the Next Generation Every generation inherits something from the one before it. Our responsibility is to ensure that the wisdom, values, and traditions that have sustained our civilization for thousands of years are not forgotten. Pada Puja is more than a ceremonial act. It is a reminder that gratitude begins at home. When a child bows before their parents, they are not lowering themselves—they are learning the strength of humility. When parents bless their children, they pass forward love, wisdom, and hope. By teaching our youth to honour their parents and respect their elders, we help nurture a generation that is confident in the modern world while remaining deeply connected to its civilizational roots. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Any nation that forgets its past glory and does not learn lessons from its past experiences will perish in the course of time. The main enemies of the Hindu Dharma are not foreigners, but impurities like disunity and untouchability that have crept into it over time. Sri Narayana Guru was a great sage and social reformer who was born to eradicate such impurities. His entire life testified that all people are equal, beyond caste boundaries. Childhood and Grief over Untouchability: Narayana Guru was born on August 20, 1856, in the village of Chempazhanthy in Kerala, to Madan Asan and Kutti Amma. His childhood name was Nanu. His father, Madan Asan, was a farmer but also a great scholar who knew Sanskrit, astrology, and Ayurveda. From a young age, Nanu showed deep devotion to God. He was deeply pained by the discrimination and untouchability that existed in society in the name of caste. Even as a child, he would spend hours meditating in solitude. Asceticism and Struggle: Narayana Guru renounced worldly bonds and became an ascetic in search of truth. At the age of 30, he performed severe penance and attained enlightenment. He was very saddened to see that some Hindus were not allowed into temples in the name of untouchability. To protest this, in 1888, he himself took an idol of Shiva from a river and consecrated it for everyone. When asked by those who said, "Only Brahmins should consecrate an idol in a temple," he replied, "I did not consecrate the Brahmins' Shiva, I consecrated my Shiva." We at Global Hindu Heritage Foundation have also built many such temples. When some Hindus said, "We are not allowed into their temples, so we will convert," we strongly questioned them. "God is not the property of any one group. If they don't let you into their temple, build your own temple." We stood by them. Moreover, we argued strongly that only cowards, the helpless, and those who succumb to greed convert, while those with self-respect do not. Through the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation, we are also providing archaka (priestly) training to our SC and ST Hindu brothers who have devotion and love for Dharma and God. Narayana Guru - A True Social Reformer: In today's society, some fake social reformers are trying to destroy Dharma by using the inequalities that arose from ignorance in the Hindu Dharma as an excuse. But Narayana Guru was not like them. He sought only to remove impurities in Hindu Dharma and proclaimed the greatness of Hinduism. That is why he propagated the Advaita philosophy taught by Adi Shankara. In 1904, Narayana Guru stopped traveling around the country and settled in a place called Sivagiri. There, he started a Sanskrit school for poor and orphaned children and taught everyone regardless of their caste. The main message of the Advaita Ashram he founded in 1913 was "Om Sahodaryam Sarvatra" (Everyone is equal in the eyes of God). Narayana Guru taught the philosophy, "One Caste, One Religion, One God." He propagated Advaita philosophy: even though God manifests in different forms, He is one. The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation also carries forward the ideals of such great men with the slogan, "Caste is within the threshold; beyond the threshold, we are all Hindus." Main Message: We must remove the impurities of caste discrimination and untouchability that have entered the Hindu Dharma. No one is different; everyone is equal. Our Dharma and our culture belong to all of us. We must all remain united and protect our Dharma. Teacher Tasks: Discussion after the story: ●    Why is untouchability dangerous to Hindu Dharma? Answer: Untouchability reduces unity among Hindus. It goes against the teaching of Hindu Dharma that everyone is a child of God. ●    What do you understand about the principle of "One caste, one religion, one God"? Answer: In Hindu Dharma, everyone is equal in the eyes of God. It conveys the message that we should live unitedly by respecting each other without caste discrimination. ●    What would you do if someone distances you in the name of caste? Answer: I will respond calmly and make them understand that everyone is equal. I will seek the help of elders and try to resolve the issue with love and respect. Expression of Feelings: ●    Create a slogan that says "Everyone is equal." ●    Talk about one good thing you can do to increase unity among us. Practical Activities: Play a game with all your friends, without leaving anyone out. Whenever possible, have community meals with your friends, regardless of caste. Draw a picture that shows "Everyone is equal."   Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979     {{album_1658}}

Agnihotra purifies the atmosphere through fire. This healing fire comes from the Vedas, the most ancient body of human knowledge. The Agnihotra homa is believed to impact an area up to 12 kms in the biosphere. It must be performed at sunrise and sunset. The main purpose of doing Agnihotra is to purify the environment, neutralize negative energy, and support organic farming.  Agnihotra is an ancient fire ceremony that is mentioned in the sacred Vedic scriptures. “AGNI” refers to the fire, while “HOTRA” means healing. This sacred ritual has numerous purposes – purifying the environment, healing the person performing the prayer and many people in the surrounding areas, among other benefits. Agnihotra is performed at sunrise and sunset in one’s locality. Vibrational input in the form of short Sanskrit mantras. Agnihotra heals the environment. It can be used for personal healing, gardening and farming, and in psychotherapy. Many people worldwide who perform Agnihotra have experienced benefits such as improved health, increased energy, and reduced stress. Agnihotra takes only a few minutes to perform.  Agnihotra requires these materials: - Copper pyramid of specific shape and size- Dried pure cow dung- Pure cow’s Ghee (clarified unsalted butter from cow’s milk)- Whole grain raw brown rice accompanied by specific Agnihotra Mantras. It can be performed by anyone irrespective of religion, caste, creed, nationality, gender, or age. It is for everyone.  Agnihotra is a healing fire from the ancient science of Ayurveda. It purifies the atmosphere through a specially prepared fire performed daily at sunrise and sunset. Anyone in any walk of life can do Agnihotra and heal the atmosphere in his/her own home. Regular practice of agnihotra can increase a farmer's profits and support a thriving ecosystem. Importance of Yajna: To eliminate the poisonous gases that spread as a consequence of nuclear explosions, it is necessary to burn fragrant matter and plants and spread their smoke. Also, if we adopt the Indian method of performing Yajna, it will not only eliminate all types of pollution but also curb radioactivity. We should consider the conclusions reached by Western scientists' research on this subject. Medical Usage of Agnihotra Healing Ointments: The ash is mixed with pure cow's ghee to create topical salves applied to cuts, wounds, burns, and skin infections. Eye and Ear Drops: Diluted preparations or filtered ash solutions have traditionally been used in folk veterinary and human practices for outer ear infections or eye irritations. Internal Tonics: Practitioners mix a pinch of ash into drinking water or ash-infused water to support general detoxification, digestion, and pH balance. Medicated Powders (Vibuthi): People sometimes consume the dry ash directly or store it for traditional ceremonial and healing uses in Homa therapy. Would you like to know more about how to prepare Agnihotra ash or the specific steps for making a topical ointment with it? Agnihotra reduces stress, brings greater clarity of thought, improves overall health, increases energy, and fills the heart and mind with love. Monika Koch, a Pharmacist from Germany, has practiced Agnihotra and other HOMA fires and has done extensive research on the medical applications of HOMA Therapy. She has resuscitated the lost Ayurvedic science of Agnihotra ash therapy. These folk medicines are now used on all continents with miraculous results. In her book, Homa Therapy - The Ancient Science of Healing, she explains how to prepare homemade folk remedies using the potent ash left behind by daily sunrise and sunset Agnihotra purification fires. The Benefits of Agnihotra •    Mental tension disappears, and you begin to experience peace. •    Agnihotra smoke gathers particles of harmful radiation and, on a very subtle level, neutralizes their  effect. •    Agnihotra renews brain cells, revitalizes the skin, and purifies the blood. •    Agnihotra neutralizes pathogenic bacteria. •    Breathing Agnihotra smoke has an excellent effect on the circulatory, brain, and nervous systems •    Plants, animals, and humans receive nutrition from the vibrations of the Agnihotra atmosphere,  become happy and grow well. •    Agnihotra ash can be used to purify water resources and for medicines. •    Agnihotra helps children diagnose ADD/ADHD. It has a calming effect by having the child focus  on the fire. •    Reduction of allergies. Specifically for crops: •    Increase quality and volume of production •    Reduces labor costs to apply agrochemicals •    Improves taste, size, texture, and nutrition •    Prolongs the shelf life •    Increases the number of harvests during a year, i.e., the productive cycle is shortened. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Three requests to build small Hindu Temples came from the remote villages. Each temple costs about $3,000.00. It will also be used as a Bala Samskar Kendra to educate our Hindu Children. Sponsor one Temple: $3000.00. (Different amounts of donations are also accepted.)             Call for more information: 601-918-7111 (Prakasarao Velagapudi)   Tangedukota Village, Gurtedu Dist.: Sri Anjaneya Swamy Temple. Tabikelapadu Village, Devipuram Dist.: Sri Shiva Temple DN Palem Village, Devipuram Dist.: Sri Venkateswara Temple. Through generous donations from people like you, we built about 70 Temples in remote villages over the last six years to prevent them from being expiated and converted. During my last visit to Bharat, we received several requests to build small temples in their villages.  After serious deliberation, we decided to revive Hindu Dharma through village temples. As many of us are aware, many Temples are closed due to neglect by the management, depletion of funds, and usurpation of Temple land. The takeover of Hindu Temples by the government resulted in the closure of many Hindu Temples. The income generated by many Temples that attract lakhs of people is directed to the government and used to support Christian and Muslim structures and their activities. Two reasons why we are building Temples in Villages Enable Hindus to practice Hinduism and transmit richness to the next generation Hindu Temples play a vital role in preserving culture and supporting the worship of millions of Hindus around the globe. They are the places of worship where devotees worship their chosen Gods at their convenience, day in and day out. Devotees go to Hindu Temples to experience infinite divine power through individual prayers and collective worship. Hindu Temples have been built over more than twenty centuries, providing an opportunity to practice their social, religious, and cultural milieu. Each Temple is dedicated to one of the manifestations of the infinite power, that unfathomable divinity of the Almighty. Every temple has a sanctum sanctorum with a presiding Deity who represents the power and energy of GOD. Hindus believe that God is ever-powerful; everywhere, everything is in God. For centuries Hindu Temples served as centers of learning and knowledge for all age groups; foci for social gathering; facility for art, dance and music; hubs for upholding the dharmic values; sacred places for conducting daily rituals such as Archana, Homas, Pujas and other Samskaras; nuclei for peace, tolerance, and nonviolence; lighthouse for philosophy and spirituality, cornerstone for worship services; promoted age old, time tested universal values; served as institutes for yoga and meditation; holy places for conducting different festivals and rituals; and nexus for expressing devotion through music, singing and chanting; and centers for addressing the community needs. Prevent exploitation of other religions to convert Hindus. As many of you are aware, Christians are engaged in rampant conversion of Hindus through foreign funding. They convert village after village. The Christian population is increasing day by day; Hindu Temple money is being looted; Hindu gods' images are being destroyed; Hindu Temples are being attacked; lands are being sold; Hindu customs are being demeaned. Christians perfected their strategy over 2000 years to convert Hindus. In fact, some churches use Hindu methods of worship, such as offering aarti, performing Abhishekam, reciting Ashtottaranama and Sahasrana Archana to Jesus, singing bhajans, etc., only to convert and modify the churches to look like Hindu Temples.  Some Preachers are dressed like a Hindu saint with long saffron robes to mislead Hindus.    The Outlook magazine observed that “Om Namah Jesus could well reverberate inside hundreds of Catholic churches in India very soon, if the changing physical face of these places of worship is anything to go by.” Revival of Temple culture It is time to recognize the importance of the Hindu Temple, the energy it creates, the blessings the presiding deity bestows upon the village, and the vibrations it generates, creating awareness about the richness and grandeur of our Sanatana Dharma. This awareness also helps them take pride in their Temple and repel aggressive Christian efforts to convert them to Christianity. They will be bold enough to question the cruelty and killings found in the Bible and Quran. Lord Krishna declared in the Bhagavad Gita as to who may go to the Temple: “chatur-vidha bhajante mam, janah sukritino’rjuna arto jijnasur artharthi, jnani cha bharatarsabha” 1. People who are in distress. 2. People who want to know about God. 3. People who want to gain wealth in life. 4. People who are in search of true knowledge and want to reach the supreme goal.   Please sponsor one or more Hindu Temples to be built in villages, allowing them to attend the Temple, perform Archana, celebrate festivals, initiate Bhaja groups, and educate their Children at Bala Samskar Kendras.                 Contact: Prakasarao Velagapudi at 601-918-7111 Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035.

The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for underprivileged Hindu women and helping them build a more secure and confident future for themselves and their families. For women facing financial hardship, gaining a practical vocational skill can become the first step toward economic independence. With this vision, GHHF has established two tailoring training centers, one in the Anantapur area and another in Nandyala, to provide women with practical skills that can translate directly into sustainable livelihoods. Currently, 32 women are receiving training, with the program designed to be completed over a period of two months.This initiative is more than a tailoring course. It is an investment in women’s abilities, confidence, families, and communities.   A Skill That Can Become a Livelihood Tailoring is a particularly valuable vocational skill because it can be practiced from home while allowing women to contribute to their family’s income.The training covers a range of skills, from basic sewing and garment construction to advanced tailoring techniques, while also introducing participants to essential entrepreneurial skills. These skills can enable women to stitch everyday clothing, school uniforms, traditional garments, and festive wear, as well as undertake alterations and custom-made orders within their communities.With dedication and experience, a trained woman can gradually build a customer base, establish a small tailoring business from home, join a self-help group, or seek employment in the textile and garment sector.What begins with learning a practical skill can eventually become a sustainable source of income. Women’s Empowerment in India Women’s empowerment is an important part of India’s social and economic development. For generations, Indian women have played a central role in nurturing families, preserving traditions, managing households, and contributing to their communities. Yet many women, particularly those living in rural and economically disadvantaged communities, continue to face limited access to formal employment and income-generating opportunities.Vocational education can help bridge this gap. Economic empowerment gives women greater confidence, greater independence, and a stronger voice in decisions affecting their families and their future. When a woman earns an income through her own skills, the impact often extends far beyond her individual circumstances. Her earnings can contribute to household expenses, children’s education, healthcare, and improved living conditions.Empowerment does not necessarily mean leaving behind family responsibilities. For many women in rural India, the ability to earn from home provides an opportunity to balance family responsibilities with financial independence. Strengthening the Family A woman’s financial contribution can make a significant difference to the economic stability of a household. Income earned through tailoring can help families meet everyday expenses and provide greater financial security during difficult times.It can also enable mothers to invest more confidently in their children’s education, school supplies, and future opportunities. When mothers become financially capable, children also learn valuable lessons about hard work, dignity, responsibility, perseverance, and self-reliance. Thus, empowering one woman can influence an entire family. From Dependency to Confidence The true value of vocational training cannot be measured only by the income it generates. It also builds confidence.Learning a skill, completing a garment, receiving payment from a customer, and gradually developing one’s own livelihood can transform the way a woman sees herself and her capabilities.A woman who once depended entirely on others may become someone who contributes meaningfully to household finances and participates more actively in family decisions. She becomes not only a beneficiary of an initiative, but a skilled contributor, entrepreneur, and role model within her community. Building Stronger Rural Communities The benefits of women’s vocational training extend beyond individual households. When women earn and spend within their communities, economic activity increases locally. Tailoring businesses can create additional employment, support local markets, and provide affordable services to other families.Graduates can eventually establish their own tailoring businesses, work from home, join self-help groups, take on subcontracting work, or seek employment in the textile and garment industry. Some may even go on to train other women, allowing the benefits of the program to reach further into the community. In this way, vocational training can create a multiplier effect. One trained woman can become a source of opportunity for others. Preserving Dignity Through Self-RelianceTrue empowerment is not simply about providing financial assistance. It is about creating opportunities through which people can develop the ability to support themselves. GHHF’s tailoring initiative follows this principle by focusing on skills, self-confidence, entrepreneurship, and long-term vocational capability. The goal is not merely to help women through a temporary period of financial difficulty, but to provide them with a skill that can remain valuable for years to come.A sewing machine can become more than a household tool. In the hands of a trained woman, it can become an instrument of economic independence, dignity, and hope. Investing in Women, Investing in the Future The progress of a family is closely connected to the opportunities available to its women. When women are given access to education, vocational training, and meaningful economic opportunities, they can become powerful contributors to the prosperity of their families and communities.GHHF believes that every woman deserves the opportunity to discover her potential, acquire useful skills, and build a future with greater confidence and independence.The tailoring training centers in Anantapur and Nandyala represent a small but meaningful step toward that vision.By empowering women with skills today, we help build stronger families, more resilient communities, and a more hopeful tomorrow. We Seek Your Support Programs such as these can grow further with the support of people who believe in creating sustainable opportunities for women.Your support can help expand training centers, reach more women, provide vocational resources, and give more families the opportunity to build a stable future through skills and self-reliance. “Empower Her With a Skill. Strengthen Her Family. Transform Her Community.” Together, we can turn skills into livelihoods, confidence into independence, and opportunity into lasting change. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Rupees: Call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Global Hindu Heritage Foundation is committed to transmitting the richness of Sanatana Dharma to youngsters through the depth and breadth of knowledge, the sacrifices of national heroes, the miracles of Maha Rishis, science and mathematics, and the importance of maintaining traditions and customs. We talk about the sacrifices of our national heroes who gave their lives to free India from the British, and the great saints who embody the enormous power of spirituality.  Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was born on February 18, 1836, in the village of Kamarpukur, about sixty miles north of Kolkata, to Kshudiram Chattopadhyaya and Chandramani Devi. As a child, Ramakrishna (his childhood name was Gadadhar) was dearly loved by the villagers. From early days, he was uninterested in formal education and worldly affairs. He was, however, a talented boy and could sing and paint well. He loved serving holy men and listening to their discourses. He was also often absorbed in spiritual moods. At the age of six, he experienced the first ecstasy while watching a flight of white cranes moving against the background of black clouds. Worshipping His Wife Ramakrishna married an eight-year-old Sharada.  In 1872, his wife Sarada, then nineteen, came from the village to meet him. He received her cordially and taught her household duties while he led an intensely spiritual life. One night he worshipped her as the Divine Mother in his room at the Dakshineswar temple. He considered her to be the incarnation of Tripura Sundari, worshiped her, and took her from the status of ‘wife’ to the highest level. That is why sexual desire did not arise in their married life. Their Family life coexisted as two minds, but not as two bodies. Although Sarada continued to stay with him, they lived immaculately pure lives, and their marital relationship was purely spiritual. Sri Ramakrishna had been ordained a Sannyasin (Hindu monk), and he observed the basic vows of a monk to perfection. But outwardly he lived like a layman, humble, loving, and with childlike simplicity.    Worshipped Mother Kali Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was a renowned mystic and saint who was deeply devoted to Mother Kali. His spiritual life and practices centered largely on the Goddess, whom he worshipped as the Divine Mother of the universe, and he often lived and served as a priest at the Kali Temple in Dakshineswar.   He began to look upon the image of the goddess Kali as his mother and the mother of the universe. He became seized by a desire to see Kali—a direct realization of her reality—and believed the stone image to be living and breathing, taking food from his hand. At times, he would weep bitterly and cry whenever he could not see his mother Kali as perfectly as he wished. Narendra (Swami Vivekananda) meets Ramakrishna Paramahamsa In early 1882, Narendranath went to meet Ramakrishna at Dakshineswar. There too, without much ado, he directly asked Ramakrishna— Sir, have you seen God? Ramakrishna smiled calmly, and then promptly replied without any hesitation—  Yes, I have seen God. I see Him as I see you here, only more clearly. God can be seen. One can talk to him. But who cares for God? People shed torrents of tears for their wives, children, wealth, and property, but who weeps for the vision of God? If one cries sincerely for God, one can surely see Him.  Hearing that, Narendra was astonished. For the first time, he was face to face with a man who asserted that he had seen God. For the first time, in fact, he was hearing that God could be seen. He felt Ramakrishna's words came from the depths of inner experience, without hesitation. Narendra did not doubt his words. This was the first time Narendranath met someone who could declare so easily that he had seen God. It was a new experience for Narendranath.  Ramakrishna was open-minded and studied other religions thoroughly to understand the depth of Hinduism.  He blessed the hearts of all religions. After learning the method of attaining Nirvikalpa Samadhi from the religious gurus of Thotapuri and the process of attaining God-realization through devotion from virtuous Brahmins, the religious fire in him did not burn to the core. At the age of just eight years, Sarada, who came as Ramakrishna's life partner, considered her to be the incarnation of Tripura Sundari, worshiped her, and took her from the status of ‘wife’ to the highest level. That is why sexual desire did not arise in their married life. Their Family life coexisted as two minds, but not as two bodies. On December 11, 1885, Ramakrishna suffered from a severe sore throat. That gradually turned into cancer. All the big doctors in Shampakoor tried and failed to treat him. Doctors advised him to maintain the strictest silence, but ignoring the advice, he incessantly conversed with visitors. But Ram Krishna did not agree to refrain from speaking. He could not refrain from talking to those who came to him. As his last days approached, he called Vivekananda and deposited his spiritual strength in him.  Before his death, it is reported that Ramakrishna said to Vivekananda, "Today I have given you my all and am now only a poor fakir, possessing nothing. By this power you will do immense good in the world and not until it is accomplished will you return to the absolute." It is reported that when Vivekananda doubted Ramakrishna's claim of avatara, Ramakrishna said, "He who was Rama, He who was Krishna, He himself is now Ramakrishna in this body." During his final days, Ramakrishna asked Vivekananda to care for the other monastic disciples and asked all the disciples to look upon Vivekananda as their leader. On August 16, when the time of Divya Samadhi came, Vivekananda and 16 other disciples were present.  Swami Vivekananda said, “His life is a searchlight of infinite power thrown upon the whole mass of Indian religious thought. He was the living commentary to the Vedas and to their aim. He had lived in one life the whole cycle of the national religious existence in India."  Arnold Toynbee said, “Sri Ramakrishna manifested his uniqueness... His religious activity and experience were, in fact, comprehensive to a degree that had perhaps never before been attained by any other religious genius, in India or elsewhere." Sri Aurobindo said, “His was the great super-conscious life which alone can witness to the infinitude of the current that bears us all oceanward. He is the proof of the Power behind us, and the future before us."  Donations appreciated:  PayPal: Savetemples.org By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Phone: 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

The Founding of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) was established in 2006 with a clear purpose—to protect, preserve, promote, and strengthen Hindu culture, temples, religious institutions, and Sanatana Dharma both within Bharat and across the global Hindu community. From its inception, GHHF adopted a philosophy centered on meaningful action. Rather than limiting itself to discussions or symbolic initiatives, the Foundation committed to practical, grassroots efforts that create measurable, lasting change. GHHF has spent two decades implementing programs that directly benefit temples, priests, children, women, villages, and communities. Today, the Foundation runs sixteen (16) ongoing grassroots initiatives across ten states in Bharat. These initiatives address a broad spectrum of needs, including temple preservation, Grama Devata restoration, Bala Samskara education, Ghar Wapasi, priest welfare, environmental conservation, humanitarian relief, women’s empowerment, animal welfare, and cultural awareness. Together, these programs reflect a comprehensive approach to preserving Sanatana Dharma while strengthening the social fabric of Hindu society. GHHF’s Approach to Protecting and Strengthening Hindu Institutions The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) follows a clear, comprehensive approach centered on protecting, preserving, promoting, and maintaining Hindu culture, temples, mutts, peethams, endowments, trusts, and other associated religious and cultural institutions worldwide. This vision is rooted in the belief that Hindu institutions form an essential part of a living civilization and must be safeguarded in their original spirit, purpose, and autonomy. To achieve this objective, GHHF commits itself to taking necessary and appropriate non-violent actions in response to laws, policies, or administrative practices introduced by governments, individuals, or organizations that may adversely impact Hindu temples, religious traditions, or institutional autonomy. The Foundation emphasizes peaceful, lawful, and democratic means of engagement while ensuring that concerns affecting Hindu institutions are addressed through constitutional and public platforms. A central pillar of this approach is pursuing legal remedies to restore and protect the independence of Hindu temples and institutions. GHHF advocates legal measures to challenge the sale, auction, or transfer of temple properties by state authorities, and opposes any takeover or administrative control of temples and their lands by government bodies. It also raises concerns regarding policies that enable encroachment or unauthorized occupation of temple lands and supports lawful efforts to remove such encroachments and restore temple properties to their rightful purpose. Another important aspect of this approach is ensuring that the financial resources generated by temples and temple lands are used exclusively for the preservation, maintenance, and development of Hindu temples and cultural activities. The Foundation strongly opposes diverting temple revenues to unrelated purposes and emphasizes that these resources must remain dedicated to religious and cultural upliftment. GHHF also addresses broader policy concerns by challenging subsidies or state support that may be extended selectively based on religion. It raises awareness regarding the need for equitable treatment of all religious institutions and questions. 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

This is the second part of my presentation at S V Lotus Temple in Fairfax VA on August 8, 2026. First part was published on August  How do we know God Eats our Prasadam. We do not see any evidence of taking food we offer. We do not see any evidence of food being eaten. No amount of food is decreased. Do not appear that it was even touched by him.                  He takes the subtle essence of the food. The prasad of the Lord is very sacred and purifying. If it is taken with faith and devotion, it brings miraculous results to the devotee.     Take for example, we a piece of paper written something on it. May be three lines or four lines, etc.               Suppose we give that piece of paper to somebody and ask him to read and find out what is written. He reads what is written may be one or two times and give it back that paper.     Then we can ask him what is the essence of what he read. He will mentions about what is written.     The we can say, how can you say you know what is written on the piece paper, while that piece paper still has what was written. What was written is  stiil on the paper. How can you say you have in your mind/ brain what is written on the paper? Theertham  It means holy/sacred water offered or associated with a deity. When ingredients like cloves, cardamom and edible camphor is mixed with water and used in the Pooja of a deity for Padyam, Aarghyam and Achamanam, it becomes Theertham. This water becomes pure, sacred and holy after it touches Lord’s legs, hands, mouth and whole body. According to one's samskara Balam (strength of character), he relates himself to God like father/mother, son/daughter, guru or friend. Anything offered to God has significance in its own way. Abhishekam is one of the known easiest ways to please Him or care for Him.  (1) Theertham has become holy since it has touched the body of the god while holy mantras are being chanted. It can also be seen as one of the mediums to receive divine positive energy.  (2) Theertham is a (herbal) medical composition for health benefits (3) Theertham is special because of the purpose of Abhishekam like for health, wealth, peace of mind, removal of sins; different liquids like coconut water, milk, honey, and rose water are used. We should note that the right palm is like a cow’s ear. The amount of water for consumption should be equal to the quantity of water just to immerse a black gram. Water, Herbs, copper vessel, and Chanting Mantras are used in preparing Theertham. Murti/Idol worship In Hinduism, the practice of worshipping images or idols—commonly referred to as Murti Puja—is a core aspect of devotion. Hindus believe in one Supreme Power (Brahman) and believe in the manifestation of multiplicity of gods and goddesses. According to our scriptures the number would run into 330 million gods and goddesses. In fact, these manifestations can be infinite. The proper analogy is Sun and the infinite number of rays. It is difficult to experience the sun and also difficult to look at the sun directly.  But we can experience its rays. For all these infinite rays there is only one source that is sun. Similarly, all these multiplicities of the Gods and Goddesses of Hinduism are merely representing the many aspects of Brahman. Also, we need to keep in that although we cannot see the Sun directly with our eyes, we know that it exists. But we can see the Sun by holding a mirror and see the image of the Sun in a mirror. What we see in the mirror is only an image of Sun, not Sun itself. Similarly, thousands of gods and goddesses we worship in the Temples and at homes are the images of that ONE Supreme power. Another way to explain the infinite manifestations of Supreme Power is by remembering the very nature and qualities of God. All religions including Christianity and Islam believe that God is omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient.  That means God is all pervading, he is all-powerful, and he is all knowing.  If that is the case, God can take any shape He wants to take, He can appear in any number of places he wishes to do so, and he can be present in any number of images or any objects if he chooses to be. If we think otherwise, we humans with limited knowledge and little brains, are limiting the Supreme Power of the Almighty. God cannot be limited, he cannot be restricted, he cannot be boxed in and he cannot be confined. Hence, we Hindus believe in the supreme power of God; and see every-where and in everything. Only Hindus are Idol worshippers?  All religions practice image worship. They are all idol worshippers. Hindus accept it with pride and develop lengthy procedures to conduct worship services (pujas). Since Hindus believe in multitude of Gods and Goddesses, they developed wide variety of pujas to suit the image of worship. But unfortunately, there is a tendency on the part of Christians, Muslims, atheists, secularist, and communists to discredit the image worship knowing fully well they hold certain items or images as sacred and hold them dearly.      Why do Christians have a cross, Mary with Jesus, Jesus image if they do not believe in Idols. Why do Muslims have moon, why do they do Namaj in the direction of Hajj, why do they do Namaj, why do they go to Mecca and circle the Kaaba seven times in an anticlockwise direction. To understand why Hindus worship through murtis, it is helpful to look at the philosophy, symbolism, and psychological principles behind the practice. God is omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent. Can take any shape and form. Idol is a symbol or statue, which is fashioned to an object of worship. A mere paper has no value. But if there is a picture of your mother, king, flag, or God image, it has value. If that happens to be currency, value increases.  God is identified with attributes, characteristics, moral compass, iconography, qualities. Rama, Krishna, Durga, Hanuman,   The Bhagavata Purana says: "The Deity form of the Lord is said to appear in eight varieties—stone, wood, metal, earth, paint, sand, the mind, or jewels" (11.27.12) The Bhagavad Gita says: "It is much more difficult to focus on God as the unmanifested, than God with form, due to human beings having the need to perceive via the senses" (12.5). Donations appreciated:  PayPal: Savetemples.org By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Phone: 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979  {{album_1657}}

 Many heroes sacrificed their lives in India's freedom struggle. Among them, Khudiram Bose was the youngest warrior to be hanged for the country. His sacrifice is an inspiration to everyone. Childhood and the Desire for Freedom: Khudiram Bose was born on December 3, 1889, in the Midnapore district of West Bengal. Having lost his parents at a young age, he was raised by his elder sister, Aparupa Roy. During his school days, his patriotism and desire for freedom were further fueled by the speeches of figures like Aurobindo Ghosh and Sister Nivedita. The partition of Bengal in 1905 intensified his anger and resolve against the British government. Struggle and Sacrifice: In 1907, during a case hearing, a British officer named Kingsford publicly ordered a flogging punishment for a 15-year-old boy. The boy chanted "Vande Mataram" with every lash. This incident deeply disturbed Khudiram. It was then that the revolutionaries decided to teach Kingsford a lesson. The revolutionaries chose Khudiram Bose and Prafulla Chaki to assassinate Kingsford. From then on, Khudiram began to observe Kingsford's daily routine. As Kingsford's horse-drawn carriage approached a European club on its way back, Khudiram threw a bomb. That was the first revolutionary bomb detonated in the Indian freedom struggle. Unfortunately, Kingsford was not in the carriage; his wife and daughters were. They were killed in the attack. Prafulla Chaki later committed suicide to avoid capture by the police, but Khudiram Bose was caught. Martyrdom: In the Muzaffarpur Bomb Case, Khudiram was sentenced to death for the deaths of Kingsford's wife and daughters. On the morning of August 11, 1908, Khudiram Bose was brought to the gallows. He walked with a smile, holding the Bhagavad Gita in one hand. At the gallows, he said, "I could not achieve what I set out to do; I could not punish the cruel Kingsford. But sacrificing for the motherland is an opportunity that not everyone gets. I have received it. For that, I am very proud." He then asked the hangman to tighten the noose. As the hangman tightened the rope, Khudiram chanted "Vande Mataram" and breathed his last. At just 18 years and 8 months old, the sacrifice of this young revolutionary further ignited patriotism and the desire for freedom among the youth of that time. The railway station where Khudiram was captured has recently been renamed "Khudiram Bose Pusa." Main Message: At a young age, Khudiram Bose sacrificed his life for his country, becoming a symbol of courage and sacrifice. Living freely is a great gift from God. We must always respect it. We should remember that we are free today because of the sacrifices of martyrs like Khudiram Bose. We, too, must work for our country selflessly and with integrity. Jai Hind! Teacher Tasks: Discussion after the story: ●    How did the desire for independence grow in Khudiram Bose? Answer: The desire for patriotism and independence grew in Khudiram due to the influence of Aurobindo Ghosh, Sister Nivedita, and the events of the Partition of Bengal. ●    Why did Khudiram Bose climb the gallows with a smile? Answer: Considering it a great fortune to sacrifice his life for the motherland, he climbed the gallows with a smile out of pride for sacrificing himself for the nation. ●    What is the most important lesson you learned from this story? Answer: We should love our country and work selflessly for it. We must always respect and remember the sacrifices of martyrs. Expression of Feelings: ●    Sing a short patriotic song. ●    Talk about one good thing you want to do, inspired by the life of Khudiram Bose. Practical Activities: ●    Draw a picture of Khudiram Bose and write "Vande Mataram." ●    Create a good slogan about patriotism. ●    Play a patriotic song in your home one day. Donations appreciated:  PayPal Method: Savetemples.org By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. Phone: 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 Email: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com  {{album_1656}}