The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS, USA), a non-profit cultural organization, runs a Sunday school in Norristown area for the Hindu families to inculcate Hindu cultural values, learn Indian languages, art, yoga and serve the local community through various service activities.
On Sunday, May 20th, we conducted a very special educational event at the Vaughn's Dojang Karate Center, in Audubon, on the occasion of Teacher’s Appreciation Day. The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh holds an annual event called "Guru Vandana" in honor of the teaching community. This is an opportunity to express our gratitude and heartfelt thanks to teachers for their contributions to the community by imparting knowledge to and inculcating moral values in the next generation. The Mayor of Trappe Borough Matthew Wismer graced us with his presence. "This event makes me recall my fourth grade teacher who was like a second mother to, I guess as teachers we create the same bond with students", he said, talking about his experience after the event. We also had amongst us Suhag Shukla, executive director and co-founder of Hindu American Foundation. She shared her insights about some recent statistics about anti-Hindu bullying in schools today. We also had some cultural activities. Kids from age 6- 15 showcased their skills playing the violin and flute on Indian notes. There was also a skit which explained the various day to day customs of the Hindu way of living.
HSS has been hosting this event for the past six years and with every passing year we are reaching out to more and more people to spread the joy. This event is a wonderful opportunity for Hindu community and the teaching community to learn more about the cultural practices emphasizing reverence for teachers and also exchanging ideas. Many teachers and district superintendent in the local school districts have expressed appreciation for the social and educational value of this program.
