One Among Thousands (Vēla Mandilō Okkaḍu) In an ancient Ashram (hermitage/school) in a certain village, thousands of students used to study. One day, all these students had a doubt: "What should one do to attain God?" They all went to the Guru and asked their questions. The Guru smiled and said, "Your desire is noble! But it is not easy. All of you must now observe the Shiva Deeksha (a spiritual vow/discipline) for 41 days. You must wake up early in the morning, take a cold-water bath, complete your Pooja (worship) rituals, and then carry out your regular duties. Similarly, in the evening, you must take a cold-water bath and complete your Pooja. During this Deeksha, you must only eat the necessary amount of food, avoid outside food, sleep on the floor, and behave well with everyone," and he informed them of several other rules as well. Upon hearing these rules, many of the thousands of disciples immediately gave up the attempt. Some wore the Deeksha Mala (vow necklace). Among those who wore the Deeksha Mala were Kutil, Maya, Aryan, and Pragna. Many who wore the Deeksha Mala did not follow the rules correctly. Kutil would follow the rules only when others were watching, but transgressed when alone (e.g., oversleeping, using foul language). Maya only completed 10 days, found it difficult, and gave up. They failed in their effort. However, Aryan and Pragna completed the Deeksha for 41 days. Pragna completed the vow merely as a physical action ('Siddhi') of discipline, but Aryan completed every rule with love for God and sincerity from the heart ('Tattvatah'). After 41 days, the Guru congratulated everyone who had completed the Deeksha. "My children! Both of you completed the vow and achieved 'Siddhi' (Discipline/Accomplishment). Not only you, but millions of people today are taking various vows with the intention of attaining God. Millions of people desire to attain God, but only a few make the effort. And among those who make the effort, very few achieve what they set out to do. Lord Sri Krishna explains this exact point to us in the Bhagavad Gita." Shloka     मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये |                     यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वत: || 3|| The Guru explained: "This means: 'Among thousands of men, one may endeavor for Siddhi (perfection/true knowledge). And among those who have thus endeavored and achieved Siddhi, one may know Me (the Supreme Self) in truth (Tattvatah).' Thousands of students in our Ashram wanted to attain God, but when the rules of the Deeksha were explained, many gave up the attempt. Many of those who made the effort did not do the Deeksha properly. Kutil and Maya are examples of this. But Aryan and Pragna completed the 41-day vow. Pragna completed the rule; it was only her physical effort. But Aryan did every rule with love and sincerity for God from the heart. There was honesty (Tattvatah) in his attempt. To know the Supreme Self, just as effort is essential, sincerity (devotion/Bhakti) in that effort is equally important. I asked you to observe this Deeksha so you could understand it. Attaining God is a lifelong endeavor. God will surely be achieved by those who live their life as a Deeksha. This means that every task you perform—studying, playing, eating—can be used as a path to attain God. This is Karma Yoga. When every task is done with sincerity and devotion, that work becomes equal to the Pooja done in a temple." With this explanation, the matter was firmly imprinted on all the students' minds. From that day on, a change came into the lives of many children in the Ashram. They began to perform every small task with focus, love for God, and the spirit of Karma Yoga. Teacher Tasks Discussion After the Story: ●    What is the difference between 'Siddhi' (Discipline/Accomplishment) and 'Tattvatah' (True Knowledge/Sincerity) in observing vows like the Ayyappa/Shiva Deeksha? ●    What kind of 'Effort' must you make to know God or to succeed in your studies? ●    Where did Kutil go wrong? Is it right to pretend when everyone is watching? Practical Activity: ●    This week, choose one difficult task (spiritual or academic) and complete it without fail for the whole week. ●    Remember that 'Effort is Prayer'. You must do every task feeling that you are doing it for God. Character Analysis: ●    Aryan: How deep was his effort? What did he do to get closer to true knowledge? ●    Pragna: Even though she followed the rules, what deeper aspect does she still need to learn? ●    Kutil - Maya: Even though they had the desire, why was their effort weak? Which is more important: External show vs. Internal sincerity? Shloka Recitation: ●    Have the students recite the Bhagavad Gita Shloka mentioned in the story. Ask the children to explain the meaning of the Shloka in their own words. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com By PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: Or you can send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1481}}

In 2012, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation was instrumental in convincing the then Honorable Minister of Endowments of Andhra Pradesh, Sri C. Ramachandraiah, to declare Karthik Purnima as Nadula Arthi Day across the state. The Government of Andhra Pradesh issued a G.O. (Government Order) requiring the major Hindu Temples near the sacred rivers in the State to conduct Arathi to the rivers. Krishna, Godavari, and Tungabhadra rivers are identified as the major sacred rivers where the Arthi will be offered annually. In 2012, more than 15 locations were identified for Nadula Arthi. More than ten lakh Hindu devotees attended the Karthik Purnima festival, took a dip in the sacred rivers, and offered Karthik Deepam. Almost all the TV channels and many newspapers had covered the Nadula Arthi festival. Some devotees traveled hundreds of kilometers to attend this unique festival.                Later, the then Endowment Minister Sri P. Manikyala Rao expanded the event in 2016 to the Daily Arthi to the Godavari and Krishna Rivers. It is done similarly to the Arthi in the Ganga River in Kashi. Festivals play a vital role in the lives of Hindus, who plan days in advance to conduct them with faith, gusto, and commitment to maintain and practice their rich cultural tradition. In India, each festival has special significance and is also associated with many stories. Puranas, Itihasas, and other scriptures describe the astrological location of the cosmos, its effects on human beings, and the benefits one would accrue by performing certain worship services. The stories associated with these festivals have spiritual significance. In fact, these festivals invigorate the inner meaning of life and elevate the divine element in each human being. Participation in these festivals reinforces the presence of God in one’s own life and awakens awareness of the interconnectedness of the Panchabhutas, which includes every known element in the universe. Why offer Arthi to the Sacred Rivers on Karthik Purnima? For Hindus, lighting Deepam, worshipping rivers, and observing Karthik Purnima have special significance. Hindu scriptures are replete with information on all these rituals. India is rich with customs and traditions. Everything is connected, everything has meaning, everything has relevance, everything is divine, and everything has importance. Skanda Purana and Padma Purana have glorified the month of Karthik Masa: “The month of Karthik is the topmost of all other months. It is the most meritorious and purified of all other pure months. Padma Purana also talks about the importance of Karthik Masa: “Among all twelve months, the month of Karthik is dear to Lord Krishna. If somebody performs a little worship of Lord Sri Hari in this month, that devotee is offered His own abode.” Significance of Kartika Masa and Rudrabhishekam Out of all the months in Dakshinayana, Karthika Masa is best suited for Sadhana. Any austerity, be it a pooja, charity, penance, etc., performed during the Karthika Masam is more meritorious than one performed on ordinary days. Any austerity performed during the month of Karthika would help the Sadhakas to free themselves from all sins and lead them towards moksha. Kartika Pournami tithi is very auspicious; worshipping Lord Shiva leads to Moksha. Puranas state that on Karthika Pournami, Lord Shiva killed Tripurasuras and protected the world. Devotees of Lord Shiva perform the Rudrabhishekam for the whole month of Karthika Masam to please Lord Shiva. Performing Rudrabhishekam bestows one with health, wealth, and happiness and offers protection against enemies, negativity, and evil. Significance of Karthik Deepam Deepam is light. It is lit every day in many houses in the morning and evening. Symbolically, light evokes Chaitanya (consciousness). It is considered the source of knowledge, remover of darkness, eradicator of ignorance, and germinator of higher ideals. Whenever the knowledge is awakened, the negative Vasanas are slowly eliminated while new seeds (Vasanas) are sown for this and the next life. Also, the light always burns upward, suggesting that one should grow toward a better life. Hindus also light the lamp before starting any auspicious event. In fact, Hindus call it Divya Deepam – Divine Lamp. People who light a Deepam in Karthika Masam will receive the blessings of Pitrudevatulu (our ancestors) and of SIVA and VISHNU. It is recommended that the Deepam be lighted up only in Mud Plates (Matti Pramidas). The wick represents the body; the ghee represents purity and clarity. When the wick is lit, it stands for illumination. Similarly, an individual should serve as a wick to illuminate others and should not be selfish. Just as light dispels darkness, individual efforts should be directed toward dispelling ignorance and exalting knowledge. To celebrate the killing of Tripurasura, images of Lord Shiva are carried in procession. Temple complexes in Southern India are lit up throughout the night. People offer Deepam, consisting of 365 wicks, in the Temples to secure escape from reaching hell after death. Some people offer 720 wicks to symbolize 360 days and nights. In Varanasi, the Ghats come alive with thousands of diyas (brightly lit earthen lamps. The Deepas (lamps) are kept throughout the night in houses and Temples, especially Shiva temples. This day is also known as "Karthik Diparatna" - the jewel of lamps in Karthik. On this day, Deepas are offered to the sacred rivers. It is a sight to see so many Deepas floating in the rivers. Sacred Rivers A ritual bath at a Tirtha (a sacred water body, such as a lake or river) at a pilgrimage center is prescribed on Karthik Purnima. This holy bath is known as "Karthik snana". A holy bath at Pushkara or in the Ganges River, especially at Varanasi, is deemed most auspicious. Karthik Purnima is the most popular day for bathing in the Ganges at Varanasi. In Karthi Masa (month), Ganga Mata (Goddess Ganga) enters all rivers, canals, ponds, and wells, making them as sacred as Ganga. Hence, taking a bath in any river on this day is as good as taking a bath in the Ganges. According to some scientific reports, water will acquire more magnetic power from Earth and will be stored in water before the Sunrise in Karthik Masa. Anyone who takes a bath in flowing water is relieved of stomach problems, liver disorders, and other health issues. Also, this month, Lord Vishnu, who sleeps on Ashadha Suddha Ekadashi, wakes up on Karthik Suddha Ekadashi. Ayyappa Deeksha is also taken in Karthik Masam. Importance of Karthik Purnima "There is no month that is equal to Karthik Masa, there is no god equivalent to Lord Kesava (Sri Hari), there is no scripture equal to Vedas, and there is no Teerdha equal to Holy Ganges." According to the Padma Purana, anyone who performs pujas in the Karthik Masa will accrue more merit than if they were performed in other months. These merits are more potent than even the study of the Vedas and the performance of Japa, charity, and austerity. Karthik Purnima is also called Tripuri Purnima. In some legends, Tripurasura, a demon king, had conquered the whole world, defeated the Gods, and created three Puras (cities), also called "Tripura". The killing of the demon(s) and destruction of/their cities with a single arrow by Shiva overjoyed the gods, and they pronounced the day a festival of illuminations. Since Lord Shiva killed three sons of Tripurasura on Karthik Purnima, it is called Deva Diwali – the Diwali of the Gods. Karthik Purnima is also the birthday of Lord Vishnu in the Matsya Avatara— Vishnu's fish incarnation. It is also the birthday of Vrinda, the personification of the Tulsi plant, and of Karthikeya, the god of war and son of Shiva. This day is also considered dear to Radha, the lover of Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. It is believed that Krishna and Radha danced rasas and Krishna worshipped Radha on this day. {{album_1480}}

Global Hindu Heritage Foundation was founded with a mission to preserve, propagate, and promote Sanatana Dharma to enrich the Hindu community and to spread the principles of dharma, which promote righteous conduct across generations. So far, we have either constructed about 75 small Temples or renovated old Temples in villages.  Temples are the Center of the cultural and spiritual needs of Villagers. For millennia, the Hindu temple has stood at the center of Indian civilization—not merely as a religious monument but as a cultural, educational, and social institution. In rural India, the village temple has functioned as a unifying space, blending art, architecture, ethics, and public life. Modern scholars such as Ananda K. Coomaraswamy, Stella Kramrisch, R. Nagaswamy, and George Michell have emphasized that temples symbolize the synthesis of spiritual and civic ideals in Indian society. The Agni Purana proclaims that temple construction surpasses all other acts of charity or ritual. Even a small contribution toward building or repairing a temple yields immeasurable spiritual benefit: “He who constructs a temple for Hari, Hara, or Devi obtains merit greater than that of a thousand sacrifices or ten million gifts.” (Agni Purana 90.1–3) Small temples act as natural gathering spaces for villagers. They promote social cohesion through festivals, community meals, and shared maintenance activities. These spaces embody inclusiveness and cooperation, offering a sense of belonging that transcends social or economic divisions. Cultural geographers note that such public spaces contribute to collective identity and mutual trust. In rapidly urbanizing, globalizing India, small village temples remain vital anchors of cultural identity. They preserve intangible heritage—language, oral traditions, folk art—while offering platforms for civic engagement. Scholars like Sri Aurobindo and Radhakrishnan emphasized that a culture's vitality depends on its capacity to translate spiritual ideals into community life. Small temples continue to fulfill that role by fostering beauty, solidarity, and a sense of rootedness. The chanting of mantras produces sound frequencies that calm the nervous system. The fragrance of incense has therapeutic effects, while the act of pradakshina (circumambulation) promotes mindfulness and focus. Each sensory element—sound, sight, smell, touch—works together to purify the mind and uplift the spirit. Teertham, prostration, squatting, and reciting a mantra while doing pradakshina have their health and spiritual benefits. Many scriptures extol the virtue of building Temples as one of the acts of preserving dharma, as a center for the transmission of knowledge, for the preservation of cultural heritage, and as a focal point for bringing villagers together under the powerful vibrations generated by regularly conducted temple activities.   In the village context, temples fostered community cohesion by bringing people together for festivals, shared meals, and voluntary service. They provided spaces for villagers to meet, deliberate, and collaborate on social issues, thereby reinforcing unity and collective responsibility. Bhajan programs conducted in Temples generate vibrations that heal the body and serve to enrich the sacredness of the villages. Bhaja singing involves melodious devotional songs, often dedicated to deities and saints. Bhajans are not only an integral part of religious ceremonies but also serve as a means of connecting with the divine, fostering community, and enhancing personal well-being. In this article, we will explore the myriad benefits of incorporating daily Bhajan singing into your life. Singing purifies; it provides a safe space to release pent-up emotions such as grief, anger, or frustration. Bhajans encourage listeners to let go of negativity and embrace positive feelings associated with love and devotion. Research has shown evidence that temples and other religious rituals contribute significantly to social cohesion, individual peace of mind, and a positive community environment. In Hinduism, temples are considered the earthly abode of the Divine, where spiritual energy flows continuously through sacred rituals, mantras, and offerings. For centuries, these holy spaces have served as a refuge for the soul, a place where daily stress fades, and only prayer remains. Further, these Temples would deter the forceful or deceptive conversion to other religions. We have documented evidence to show how some of the different religions are converting village Hindus with false promises. They convert the whole village by promising either a place to play for their children or teaching good things without revealing their intent to promote their religion. GHHF has built or renovated a few Hindu Temples to prevent them from being exploited. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com By PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: Or you can send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1479}}

The Sardar Who United the Nation with an Iron Will. Vallabhbhai Patel was born into a simple farmer's family in Nadiad, Gujarat, in the Bombay Presidency, on October 31, 1875. Vallabhbhai Patel was courageous and stubborn from childhood. Once, when he developed a boil on his body, he bravely cauterized it himself with a red-hot glass piece before the doctor arrived. This incident showcased his Iron Will. After studying Law in England, he joined the freedom movement and successfully led the farmers' struggles in Kheda and Bardoli, earning him the title 'Sardar' (Chief/Leader). At the time of Independence, the person serving as the Congress President was expected to become the country's first Prime Minister. At that time, Sardar Patel received the majority support from the state committees for the Congress Presidential post. However, due to Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru became the country's first Prime Minister, and Sardar Patel took charge as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister. If a strong leader like Sardar Patel had become the Prime Minister, the country's history might have been different. When India gained independence in 1947, there were over 562 Princely States that were unwilling to join the new nation. Seeing this situation, Sardar Patel firmly resolved that India should not be fragmented. Using his strong determination, diplomacy, persuasion, and, where necessary, military action, he merged all these states into a single Indian Union within two years. Hence, he is called the 'Architect of Indian Unity' and the 'Iron Man of India'. ●    Merger of Junagadh and Hyderabad: Although Junagadh decided to join Pakistan, Sardar Patel made a brave decision based on the will of the people and integrated it into India. Similarly, when the Nizam of Hyderabad began persecuting Hindus, Patel liberated the Telangana region through 'Police Action' and integrated it into India. ●    The Kashmir Issue: Had the complete responsibility for the Kashmir issue been entrusted to Sardar Patel, it would have been merged as easily as Hyderabad. However, due to Jawaharlal Nehru's intervention and the problem being taken to the United Nations (UN), a part of Kashmir remained under Pakistan's occupation (PoK). This caused significant loss to the Hindus in that region and the nation. Many Hindus lost their lives and dignity as a result. Patel's patriotism was not limited to politics alone. He insisted on the reconstruction of the historic Somnath Temple in Gujarat, which had been destroyed numerous times by foreign Muslim rulers like Mahmud of Ghazni. Despite opposition from many, the reconstruction was possible only due to Sardar Patel's firm resolve. Sardar Patel decided that the temple should be restored through people's participation and donations, not with government funds. He did not give up his resolve, even when he faced opposition from some, including Prime Minister Nehru. His efforts to restore our destroyed or occupied ancient temples are a great source of cultural inspiration. He established the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and called it the "Steel Frame of India." In recognition of his work, Patel was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna. His birth anniversary is celebrated as 'National Unity Day'. Teacher Tasks Discussion After the Story (Analysis): ●    Which incident in Sardar Patel's childhood revealed his courage and strength of will? ●    What was Sardar Patel's role in the merger of Hyderabad and Junagadh? What problem arose due to the lack of his leadership in the Kashmir issue? ●    What message did he give through the restoration of the Somnath Temple? (Discuss the need to protect our historical and cultural heritage.) Expression of Thought (Creativity): ●    Symbol of Unity: Draw a map of India and sketch a picture of Sardar Patel uniting the 565 Princely States into a single nation. ●    Slogan of Determination: Have the children chant the slogan: "Unity is our strength, Determination is our success." Practical Action (Implementation): ●    Unified Team: Divide the children into small teams and assign them a task. The team leader should try to keep everyone united, like Sardar Patel, and complete the task. ●    Pledge of Resolve (Sankalpa Dinacharya): For this entire week, children should choose one small task that they find challenging and try to complete it with Iron Will, without giving up. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: You can also send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1478}}

https://youtu.be/MS7QcMAXTq0?si=MNBlBH6sUWmJCVZj Suman TV interviews Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi about the recent attempts to protect the sanctity of Lord Venkateswara Temple and Tirupati. Talked about the attempts by Global Hindu Heritage Foundations and many other organizations to neutralize the desanctification attempts by the Andhra Pradesh government.  As we all know, Lord Venkateswara is considered a Kaliyuga Devudu – God of Kaliyuga. He is known by many names, such as Srinivasa (in whom Lakshmi dwells), Narayana (The Primordial One), Perumal (the great lord), Malayappa (the lord of the Hill), and Govinda (Protector of Cows), and is considered Lord Vaikuntam/ Venkatam. Permissions to build Mumtaj Hotel at the footsteps of the Seven Hills, to build Lulu Mall, and to organize a two-day Tablighi Jamaat meeting in Tirupati were contested. There are as many as 4000 Christians working at TTD. GHHF suggested how to identify Concealed Christians and the way to declare Tirupati, Tirumala, and Tiruchanur as Punyakshetra, like Mecca and the Vatican. https://youtu.be/MS7QcMAXTq0?si=MNBlBH6sUWmJCVZj

The Maharshi Who Restored Vedic Knowledge in the Modern Age Moolshankar was born in Tankara, Gujarat, on February 12, 1824. From childhood, he had an intense thirst for knowledge. One Shivaratri night, while staying awake to worship Lord Shiva, he saw mice playing on the Shivalinga. He questioned, "If this idol (Sākāram, the manifested form) cannot protect itself, how can it protect me? Does the true God only reside in an idol?" With this doubt, he set out to find the true God (Nirākāram). This was an attempt to understand the infinite power of God (Nirākāram) rather than just the form (Sākāram). To discover the truth, Moolshankar sacrificed his family's comfort and became a Sanyasi (ascetic). For 25 years, he traveled as an itinerant monk, traversing the Himalayas and other religious places in North India. During this time, he also began practicing Yoga. Finally, he found a Guru, Maharshi Virajananda. Recognizing that Hinduism had deviated from its roots, he promised his Guru that he would restore the dignity of the Vedas. It was then that Moolshankar became 'Dayananda Saraswati'. As per his Guru's command, Dayananda Saraswati dedicated his life to eradicating social evils like child marriage, Sati, and untouchability. He bravely stated, "These bad practices are not found in the Vedas. These superstitions arose in our society due to foreign invasions and because our elders forgot the original Vedic wisdom." Hence, he gave the slogan, "Go Back to Vedas." In 1875, he founded the 'Arya Samaj'. This organization not only taught Vedic knowledge but also played a crucial role in the country's freedom struggle. ●    Call for Swaraj: He was the first person to demand Swaraj (self-rule) in 1876, declaring "India for Indians." Leaders like Lokmanya Tilak later echoed this call. ●    Shuddhi Movement: He stood as a protector of the Hindu faith. By imparting knowledge to the innocent who had been converted due to temptation, he brought many back to their native faith through the 'Shuddhi Movement' (Purification). ●    Inspiration for Leaders: Great freedom fighters like Lala Lajpat Rai were inspired by the ideology of Arya Samaj. ●    Education and Equality: Arya Samaj schools taught patriotism along with Vedic education. By preaching that all are equal, it helped unite the entire nation as one community. Maharshi Dayananda Saraswati dedicated his life to establishing truth, righteousness (Dharma), and the nation. While at the palace of the Maharaja of Jodhpur, he was poisoned by the Mlechchhas (foreigners/non-believers). Due to the severity of the poison, he was moved to Ajmer for treatment. On October 30, 1883, at the age of 59, chanting the Vedic mantra 'Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,' this great Karma Yogi, who sacrificed his life for the establishment of truth and the protection of Dharma, attained Moksha (salvation). Teacher Tasks Discussion After the Story (Analysis): ●    What was Moolshankar's doubt regarding God? (Discuss that both Sākāra Pūjā (worship of form) and Nirākāra Upāsanā (worship of the formless) are paths to reach God, and that knowledge-based devotion is important.) ●    What does 'Swaraj' mean? How did Dayananda Saraswati first give the call for Swaraj? ●    What was his service to the Hindu Dharma through the 'Shuddhi Movement'? (Discuss the importance of protecting Dharma.) Expression of Thought (Creativity): ●    Thinking with Wisdom: Children should try to question and think about something before blindly believing it if someone tells them something. (Example: Discuss a rumor or superstition and explore the truth behind it.) ●    National Slogan: Combine the slogan "India for Indians" with a powerful Vedic slogan like 'Satyameva Jayate' (Truth alone triumphs) and chant it. Practical Action (Implementation): ●    Human Equality: For this entire week, children should play and study with all their friends without any distinction based on caste, wealth, or poverty. ●    Pledge of Courage: Like the courage shown by Maharshi Dayananda, take a pledge: "This week, when a mistake happens, I will bravely admit it instead of hiding it." Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: You can also send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1477}}

In a small village, a great Yagna (sacred ritual) was taking place. An extremely rare 'Swarna Pushpam' (Golden Flower) was required for this ritual. The village elder called four children—Aryan, Pragna, Kutil, and Maya—and assigned them a task. He said, "The trees bearing these flowers are near the village pond. A fair (Jatara) is happening on the way to the pond, and it will be crowded. You must bring the flower back within an hour. Any delay will disrupt the Yagna." Aryan and Pragna kept the Guru's words in mind. No matter how noisy and colorful the fair was, they kept their focus solely on the flower. Pragna completely ignored the dancers, and Aryan ignored the smell of sweets. Whenever their minds wandered, they immediately refocused on the goal. They returned with the flower on time. Maya's mind was very restless. As she walked towards the pond, she first saw a new, colorful bangle shop and stopped. Thinking, 'There is still time to get the flower,' she moved on, but then saw a group of children playing and her mind was diverted again. Because her mind kept jumping from one thing to another, she eventually completely forgot about the flower and the time. Kutil's mind was also out of control. He became impatient with the crowd at the fair. When he saw two people fighting, he got involved unnecessarily and started arguing. He wasted his energy and time on these trivial matters and returned alone, defeated and disappointed. Aryan and Pragna honorably arrived at the Yagna site with the flower. A little later, Kutil and Maya arrived empty-handed, disappointed and exhausted. The village elder smiled and said to Kutil, "Kutil, why did your mind get involved in that fight? Wasn't your goal the flower?" Turning to Maya, he asked, "Maya, why couldn't your mind stay focused in one place?" He then explained that this is why Lord Sri Krishna repeatedly stresses controlling the mind in the Bhagavad Gita, and shared a verse from the 6th Chapter, 26th Sloka. Sloka: यतो यतो निश्चरति मनश्चंचलमस्थिरम् । ततस्ततो नियम्यैतदात्मन्येव वशं नयेत् ।। Explanation: In this verse, Sri Krishna says that wherever the restless and unsteady mind wanders, one must bring it back from that path and constantly fix it on the Self (or the Supreme Soul). He added, "Children, the chaos of this fair is like your fickle mind. Your mind strayed from your destination. If our mind is under our control, we can achieve victory not only in this small task but in any matter in life. Ultimately, we can even attain the Supreme Soul. Therefore, control over the mind is the true key to victory." Kutil and Maya realized their mistake and promised to keep their minds under control. Aryan and Pragna were honored with the great privilege of participating in the Yagna. Teacher Tasks Discussion after the story: ●    How did Aryan and Pragna achieve success through focus and concentration? ●    How was the restless mind of Kutil and Maya responsible for them getting distracted? ●    Discuss, with examples, where your mind wanders while studying and how you can control it. Practical Activities: ●    Every day, complete one task (like eating food or performing Puja) by focusing solely on that activity without letting your mind wander. ●    Every time your mind loses control, immediately recall the slogan: 'Bring the mind back!' Character Analysis: ●    Aryan and Pragna: How did they keep their minds under control in the story? What are the key qualities you should learn from them? ●    Kutil and Maya: How did their minds show fickleness? What kind of loss did that restlessness cause them? Sloka Repetition: ●    Have the children repeat the Bhagavad Gita sloka mentioned in the story. ●    Ask the children 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: You can also send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1476}}  

Mark Twain remarked, "India has two million gods, and worships them all. In religion all other countries are paupers; India is the only millionaire." When traveling through India, he had exclaimed that though a week had only seven days, Indians seemed to celebrate eight festivals every week. Diwali was celebrated in Princeton, Texas, on October 25 with a variety of cultural programs, including young children as young as 3.  So many talents and so many participants. Hundreds of people enjoyed the cultural program, during which many children were allowed to showcase their singing and dancing skills.    It was organized by a group of Hindu activists who have committed to demonstrating the richness of our culture and inspiring the next generation to emulate the uniqueness of Sanatan Dharma. The team of people who worked tirelessly includes Anusha, Saikiran, Siri Reddy, Ravichandra, Mallikarjuna, Arun, Ram, Gajendra, Kalyani, Sivagami, and Suhail. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and hope over adversity, and your support helps elevate that message of unity, peace, and cultural understanding. By acknowledging Diwali in such an official and public way, you are helping foster inclusivity and strengthening the bonds within our diverse communities. The festival is mentioned in the Padma Purana, the Skanda Purana, and other Sanskrit Hindu scriptures; the divas (lamps) are mentioned in the Skanda Purana to symbolize parts of the sun, the cosmic giver of light and energy to all life, which seasonally transitions in the Hindu calendar month of Kartik. The celebration of Diwali as the "victory of good over evil" refers to the light of higher knowledge dispelling all ignorance, the ignorance that masks one's true nature, not as the body, but as the unchanging, infinite, imminent, and transcendent reality. With this awakening comes compassion and the awareness of the oneness of all things, and knowledge overcomes ignorance. Diwali is the celebration of this Inner Light over spiritual darkness, of knowledge over ignorance, of right over wrong, of good over evil. Speaking on the occasion, Prakasarao Velagapudi, President of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation, discussed the significance of Diwali and why we celebrate it. We should remember five significant events associated with Diwali. On these occasions, people appropriately celebrated in Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, and Dwapara. 1)    The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, incarnated on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Kartik month during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), hence the association of Diwali with Lakshmi. 2)     Vishnu Rescued Lakshmi: On this very day (Diwali day), Lord Vishnu in his fifth incarnation as Vaman-Avatara rescued Lakshmi from the prison of King Bali, and this is another reason for worshipping Ma Lakshmi on Diwali.  3)    Krishna Killed Narakaasur: On the day preceding Diwali, Lord Krishna killed the demon king Narakaasur and rescued 16,000 women from his captivity. The celebration of this freedom lasted two days, including Diwali as a victory festival.  4)     The Return of the Pandavas: According to the great epic ‘Mahabharata’, it was ‘Kartik Amavashya’ when the Pandavas appeared from their 12 years of banishment as a result of their defeat at the hands of the Kauravas at the game of dice (gambling). The subjects who loved the Pandavas celebrated the day by lighting the earthen lamps.  5)     The Victory of Rama: According to the epic ‘Ramayana’, it was the new moon day of Kartik when Lord Ram, Ma Sita, and Lakshman returned to Ayodhya after vanquishing Ravana and conquering Lanka. The citizens of Ayodhya decorated the entire city with the earthen lamps and illuminated it like never before.  He also suggested that the parents should take full responsibility for transmitting our rich cultural heritage to the next generation, making them proud of it and champions of our Sanatana Dharma. Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: Or you can send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1475}}

Margaret Elizabeth Noble was born in Dunganon, North Ireland, in 1867. From childhood, she was a bright and sharp-witted young woman. However, losing her father at a young age led her to take up the profession of a teacher at just seventeen to support her family. She earned a reputation as an excellent educator. Although she was involved in church services at the time, her selfless nature of serving all denominations without distinction did not align with the narrow-mindedness of the local church authorities. This left her feeling dejected. The void in her life was partially filled by the teachings of Buddha. Later, in 1893, she met Swami Vivekananda at a friend's house in London. Margaret was captivated by Swamiji's brilliant answers on Hindu philosophical topics such as the Self (Ātman), the Supreme Self (Paramātman), and Reincarnation. She immediately became his devoted follower, meticulously wrote down all his lectures, and was instrumental in giving a written form to Vivekananda's message. At Swamiji's invitation, Margaret sacrificed her comfortable life and arrived in Calcutta on January 28, 1898. On March 25, 1898, at the Belur Math temple, amidst prayers of 'Asato Ma Sadgamaya', Swami Vivekananda placed 'Vibhuti' (sacred ash) on her forehead, initiated her as a Brahmacharini (novice nun), and proclaimed her 'Nivedita' (The Dedicated One). Holy Mother Sarada Devi also accepted her as her own daughter. Swamiji commanded that if women are educated, those cultural values would be instilled in the family, laying the foundation for the nation's future. Hence, Nivedita started a Girls' School in her own house on November 11, 1898. Furthermore, even though she did not know Bengali, she worked hard to learn it and taught lessons in that language to emphasize the importance of the mother tongue. She insisted that Rabindranath Tagore's daughters also be taught in the Indian method rather than in English. She strongly opposed the British government's oppression of India and the injustice done to Indians (e.g., the humiliation faced by J.C. Bose in England). She wrote numerous articles for various journals, fiercely criticizing the brutal British rule. She guided revolutionary heroes like Bhupendranath Dutta and Aurobindo Ghosh. Her patriotism was evident when she promoted the use of Swadeshi (indigenous) goods, even personally selling them on a pushcart. She stood by scientist J.C. Bose during the humiliation he faced in Britain, correcting his research papers for five years and ensuring they were published. She worked with him to establish a research center. The seeds she sowed to boost the self-confidence and self-respect of Indian scientists can be considered the reason why India is leading in the field of knowledge today. With the belief that "it is her great fortune to serve this land," and a deep conviction that the world would awaken through the rise of India, she worked relentlessly. Although she passed away on October 13, 1911, Aurobindo Ghosh described her, saying, "She was a flame of fire that spread through all walks of life in our country." Teacher Tasks Discussion After the Story (Analysis): ●    How did Margaret, despite losing her father at a young age, take up the teaching profession to support her family? (Discuss responsibility and courage.) ●    How did Sister Nivedita emphasize the importance of the mother tongue? (Discuss why it is important to respect one's mother tongue.) ●    What was the patriotism behind Nivedita helping revolutionaries and scientists like J.C. Bose? (Discuss serving the nation through education, science, and technology.) Expression of Thought (Creativity): ●    Swadeshi Day: Children should talk about the Swadeshi goods (products made in India) they have and encourage their use. ●    Birthday Gift for Nivedita: Children should prepare a short poem or slogan about women's education or patriotism as a birthday gift for Nivedita. Practical Action (Implementation): ●    The Offering of Help (Sahāya Nivēdana): This week, children should choose one task at home or school that they really dislike and complete it selflessly (without expecting any result or reward). ●    Mother Tongue Pledge: Make a resolve every morning: "This week, I will speak clearly and proudly in my mother tongue at home and wherever possible." Your donations are appreciated. By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: Or you can send a check payable to GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. It is tax-deductible. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1474}}

Dear Friends: "Don't be satisfied with lighting just one lamp: light a thousand, for we will need to light many lights to dispel the darkness of ignorance." We request your presence at the “Celebrate the Spirit of Sanatana Dharma” program organized by Global Hindu Heritage Foundation to highlight its activities.      Date and Time: November 8, 2025, at 6:30 pm     Venue: Radha Krishna Temple, Allen, TX The purpose is fourfold: 1)    Update on the progress of our 16 activities in ten different States in Bharat. 2)    Supreme Court landmark judgment on the demolition of unauthorised structures 3)    Can we stop the unauthorised structures? 4)    Is there a need for to declare Bharat as Hindu Rashtra? 5)    Can we protect TIRUPATI from political Assault? 6)    How do we free Hindu Temples and protect them from political vote bank politics. 7)    To Appreciate the support of people who contributed to GHHF over the last 19 years. 8)    Review all the major activities being conducted in Bharat and Bangladesh. 9)    Highlight the significant events being conducted at the ground level in Bharata 10)  Do we have plans to expand our services to Sanatana Dharma  Contac information:  Chandra 972-689-9145; Prashant 323-365-4124; Chandu 469-463-4556; Prakasarao Velagapudi 601-918-7111