Amar Bharati - Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (Kenya)

Amar Bharati
अमर भारती
April 2016
Contents
Editorial
Vishwa Sangh Shibir 2015
Doctorji (Graceful even under Pressure)
“Joy of Giving” by Swami Shubhamrita Chaitanyaji
Shri Ashokji Singhal
80 Years of Rashtra Sevika Samiti
The 4H Idea
Baal Story
Puzzles Corner
Sangh Vichaar
VSS Anubhav
Kenya Pictorial
Swayamsevaks Sing in Kiswahili
Eknathji Ranade
Dakshin Bharat Darshan
Did you know…
Why do we…
“If you say that we will remain outside and watch from a distance,
then it is of no use.
Isn’t the Sangh of Hindus? Then all Hindus must come in it. This Sangh is
of all of us. No caste has any superiority. No individual has any
superiority. No one’s place has any superiority”
- Param Poojaneeya Doctorji
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EDITORIAL
As a human being, one is endowed with the capacity to win over
the two emotions - desire & anger which can be enemies for a
person. When desires are not fulfilled, they get converted into
anger. Therefore, intelligent living is to not come under the spell of
the desires.
In Mahabharata, Duryodhana could not control his desires &
anger, and that led to destruction of himself & the entire Kuru
dynasty.
Living is meant to be an intelligent process. It involves setting
objectives & a path to attain them. The ability to think is what human
beings are blessed with, as a unique ability amongst all the creatures.
Every human being has the ability to recognize it, cultivate it and put it
to the most useful application in life. This is intelligent living.
Param Poojya Dr. Keshavrao Baliram Hedgewar had a unique
personality and with the necessity of time, he overcome on his anger
& desire for the Sangh. He saw that our society was suffering due to
her own people & that this would continue till the society was not
united.
He thought over this and started Shakha (Sangh) which has now
become the vatvruksh, not only in Bharat, but all over world.
In last year’s Vishwa Sangh Shibir at Indore around 750 Swayamsevaks
participated from across the globe with the same mission and vision.
All these swayamsevaks got inspired with new ideas and thoughts by
sharing on a number of subjects ranging from social to cultural to
political keeping in mind the contemporary issues in the world today.
- J. J. Dave
3
VSS - 2015
| Parantap Joshi
Hindus are in every part of the world. Sangh is making efforts to organise
Hindus outside Bharat since 1947, starting from Kenya Itself. Sangh work
spreads every day in almost 80 countries of the world in different forms of
activities. All these different Sangh motivated, inspired and directed
organizations meet once every five years in Bharat in form of the VISHWA
SANGH SHIBIR (VSS)
Last year, the 6th VSS was held at Emerald International School, Indore,
Madhya Pradesh from 29th December 2015 to 3 rd January 2016. Indore is the
city of Devi Ahalyabai Holkar, a socio-political and Patriot Queen of India and
a renowned freedom fighter.
The Shibirsthan was very beautiful in all aspects. Spacious, neat and clean
and with lots of comfort to hold different Saririk and Baudhik programs. To
take care of Sangh Karyakartas and their comfortable participation, there
were more than 500 Swayamsevaks and Sevikas as prabandhaks, hailing
from various parts of Bharat. There was participation from the entire Sangh
Parivar in volunteering for this shibir. Food for all six days was one of the most
exciting, enjoyable and appreciated part of the shibir, as Indore is known for
its tasty and delicious food. All Karyakartas have experienced the traditional
test of typical Bharatiya food during these six days of the shibir.
There were 45 countries represented from different parts of the world - Burma,
Bangladesh, Nepal, Singapore, USA, UK and other European countries,
Canada and Australia to mention a few. The African continent was
represented by Uganda, Botswana, South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria and Kenya.
The shibirarthi sankhya reached 746 consisting of 42 from Kenya - both
swayamsevaks and sevikas.
Baudhik Kaksha
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The shibir was inaugurated on 29 th December after a grand procession
through some of the main roads of Indore. The inaugural function took place
in the presence of Hon. Speaker of Parliament of Bharat Shreemati Sumitra
Mahajan (who was the chief guest) and the Sar Karyawah, Mananeeya Shri
Bhaiyaji Joshi. It was noted and appreciated by everyone when the chief
guest mentioned that all Vishwa Vibhag karyakartas as the ‘true
ambassadors’ of Bharatiya values and samskars in the world. Ma. Bhaiyaji
talked on ‘Vayam Vishwam Jaagaryem’ - let us awake as Hindus and
awaken the whole world, for peace and harmony.
Shibir Adhikari
Ma. P. C. Dograji
Shibir Karyawah
Ma. Shri A R Mohan
Mukhya Shikshak
Shri Vasu Ramiyaji (Aus)
Mukhya Shikshika
Shri Kirtiji Vekaria (UK)
Some of the Adhikaris present at the Shibir
Shri Mohanji Bhagwat (Poojaneeya Sar Sanghchalak)
Shri Bhaiyaji Joshi (Mananeeya Sar Karyawah)
Shri Krishna Gopalji (Mananeeya Sah Sar Karyawah)
Va. Shantakkaji (Vandaneeya Pramukh Sanchalika)
Ma. Seetaji Annadaanam (Mananeeya Sar Karyawahika)
Ma. Alkaji Inamdar (Mananeeya Sah Sar Karyawahika)
Shri Manmohanji Vaidya (Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh)
Shri Sankar Rao Tatwawadiji (Senior Adhikari - Vigyan Bharati)
Shri Saumitraji Gokhale (Vishwa Vibhaag Samyojak)
Shri Ramji Vaidya (Vishwa Vibhag Sah Samyojak)
Shri Shyamji Parande (Sewa International, Bharat Pramukh)
Shri Raviji Iyer (Vishwa Vibhaag Sah Samyojak)
Shri Anilji Vartak (Vishwa Vibhaag Karyalay Pramukh)
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Shibirarthis in Ganvesh in the auditorium
Shibirarthis during a Baudhik session
Baal Vibhaag singing a geet “Chhote Chhote Haath Jod Kar”
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The Shibir timetable was designed between 6.30am to 10.30pm, with the day
being full of Shareerik and Baudhik karyakrams. All karyakrams were divided
into groups like age, choice and levels. They were so nicely designed that
every age group had appropriate programs of Shareerik and Baudhik right
from Baal (Kids) to Proudh (aged) swayamsevaks. The shareerik activities
were separate for swayamsevaks and sevikas but the baudhik sessions were
together.
The shareerik vishays taught at the shibir were Yoga, Niyuddh, Khel and
Vishesh shareerik sessions during shakha time. The traditional game of
Kho-Kho Was demonstrated by an expert team from Bharat, and it was a very
nice experience to watch them play with precision and agility and at the
same time learn from them.
Baudhik sessions and their topics were keenly thought over by the Baudhik
team. For the baudhik vibhaag, swayamsevaks were divided into four shrenis
- Karyakartas, Swakeeya, Swayamsevaks, Adhikaris.
The afternoon charcha topics were mainly on contemporary issues and were
very interesting and attracted heavy participation in all groups. Examples are:
 Kashmir Issue
 Hindus and its Condition in Pakistan and other countries
 Media and Sangh
The evening baudhiks were common for everyone and spanned 1.25 hours.
Some of the several topics that were covered included
 Sangh and Vividh Kshetras
 Seva Karya in Bharat and outside Bharat
 Challenges and Opportunities in Protection & Promotion of Dharma
 Working with Host community
 Hindus in World and its contribution
Shibirarthis had got the opportunity to hear Shri S. Gurumurthyji (an economist
and very profound speaker and journalist) speak on Religions Consensus and
how Sangh is putting its efforts to develop such scenario of harmony within
Bharat and worldwide. Poojaneeya Sarsanghchalakji, Mohanji Bhagwat once
delivered a baudhik on P.P. Balasahebji Deoras’ life(Third Sar Sanghchalak of
Sangh). On another occasion, he spoke on the Importance of Hindu
Sangathan in the present context.
Mainly all topics were covered in two languages - Hindi and English. For a few
selected topics there was the option of yet another language - Tamil!
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Poojaneeya Sar Sanghchalak Shri Mohanji, Mananeeya Sar
Karyawah - Shri Bhaiyaji &
Vandaneeya Pramukh
Sanchalika - Shantakkaji
during the Samarop Karyakram
Mananeeya Sar Karyawah and Sumitraji Mahajan during Inaugral Karyakram
Kenyan swayamsevaks and sevikas with Shri Anilji Vartak at the VSS
8
The samarop session was done by Ma. Bhaiyaji Joshi which consisted of a
treasure chest of inspirational and motivational messages to take back home
from the shibir.
Lastly, we must say that, it was a wonderful learning, understanding and
implementing experience for every participant. They came, understood each
other, got inspired by Sangh work worldwide and got lots of motivation from
Sangh work experiments done by different countries in different areas and
understood the dimensions of Sangh work.
We have learnt that karyakartas from certain parts of the globe are struggling
to even hold a Dhawaja Yukta shakha or to hold any open karyakrams, due
to the local situations and circumstances… but still there is wonderful Sangh
work going on with best of their abilities. However, in majority countries the
people are now aware about Hindu Sangathan and Dharma awareness
work being done by Sangh karyakartas, so the relative comfort level is high.
We realized that in Kenya, we have enough comforts to do Sangh work with
enormous opportunities without any struggle. Having understood this great
blessing, we return to our Karmabhoomi with lots of enthusiasm and motivation to contribute our self with tan, man and dhan to this holy service of Vishwa Dharma (Hindu Dharma). The last two lines of the shibir geet summarise
our task and duty.
“Swayam Jage Aru Vishwa Jagaye, Ravi Kirane Ban Jaye
Jyotirmaya Is Maha Yagyame, Apani Ho Aahuti“
Let’s awaken and also awaken the World – as the rays of sun in our sinew!
Let’s render ourselves as oblations in this grand Yagna (project) anew.
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Param Poojaneeya Doctorji
“Grace under pressure”
When P.P.Doctorji’s first visit to Kashi (Varanasi) was in the offing, some leftists
and communists brought out a leaflet, highly critical of Sangh and
P.P.Doctorji. The leaflet had the title “Beware of Infant Fascists” and it directly
warned against Sangh activities. It called out for a total public boycott of
Sangha programs, and called P.P.Doctorji “a Paigamber of Sangh” and in a
most rude and derogatory manner.
By coincidence, the leftist gang gave the contract for printing this leaflet to a
printing press that was owned by a swayamsevak! They, of course, did this in
ignorance. The swayamsevak brought a copy to P.P.Doctorji the moment he
stepped off the train at Varanasi station.
The swayamsevak said: “Doctor saheb, the leftists did this in ignorance. We
have printed 30,000 copies of this leaflet, but they are due to be delivered
only tomorrow afternoon. Please permit me to burn them down to ashes. I will
do it in such a way that they will think it was an accident.”
P.P.Doctorji read the leaflet and said in a calm, peaceful voice: “There is no
need to burn anything. Please deliver the leaflets to them as per your
contract. Let them distribute them. There is no need to get worried or worked
up over this or similar occurrences.”
Next day, an evening speech by him addressing the students of the Kashi
Hindu University was planned. Two hours before the event, the leftist gang
leaders came to the home where P.P.Doctorji was staying, seeking a meeting
with him. Shri Sadgopalji, the kaaryawaha of Kashi was a very powerful,
influential man with a very sharp tongue. He became very angry when he
heard the leftist gangsters’ request. He said to P.P.Doctorji: “Please don’t pay
any heed to their request. Let me take “proper care” of these foolish people”.
Shri. Bhaurao Damle (Sanghachalak of Kashi) was equally fierce in his opinion.
But P.P.Doctorji said, “Oh! Please don’t get upset. Let them come to me. I
want to hear first hand, what they have to say.”
After the leftists arrived and introductions were performed, P.P.Doctorji
ascertained Shri Sadgopalji and Shri Damleji said, “OK, if you insist we will let
them see you. But please let us do the talking”.
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P.P.Doctorji said, “They are coming to speak with me. Let us allow them.”
These were the people who had put out the leaflet. Then he casually inquired
with them the purpose of their visit. They said. “We wanted to hear from you,
first hand, about Sangh.”
P.P.Doctorji: “Then you don’t know Sangh at all?”
Leftist Leader: “No”
P.P.Doctorji: “Really, is this so?”
Leftist Leader: “Really, we don’t know.”
P.P.Doctorji took out the leaflet from his pocket, put it in front of the leftists,
and said, “Are all these signatures really yours?”
Leftists: “Yes”. They were flabbergasted to see the copy of their leaflet there.
P.P.Doctorji: “If as you said, you truly wished to know Sangh, you could have
honestly discussed this with me, prior to putting out this leaflet. If after our
discussion, still there were honest differences of opinion, you were free to do
any propaganda you liked. Then your opinions would have the moral weight
of honesty. But you chose an entirely different path. With such a dishonest
‘stab in the back, while speaking sweetly on the face’ type mentality,
discussions will not be of any use. Go ahead and do your propaganda as you
like.”
Leftist leaders were dumbfounded. Their enthusiasm for argument had
collapsed. They returned totally defeated.
Great curiosity had been around about P.P.Doctorji’s speech that evening,
due to the anti-propaganda. Even Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, (founder
of Kashi Hindu University) personally presided over the public meeting, mainly
to ensure that the students would not bring a bad name to the institution by
causing unrest and disruption.
P.P.Doctorji excelled in his speech on that day. He omitted all references to
the leaflet entirely. Pandit Malaviya was very pleased.
This speech aroused great enthusiasm about Sangh and it grew there by
leaps and bounds. Even the vice chancellor, Shri Verma joined Sangha work.
In the face of dire attacks, P.P.Doctorji’s grace under pressure had won the
day – yet again!
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JOY OF GIVING
On Sunday, 21st January 2016, Swami Shubamrita
Chaitanyaji, a disciple of Mata Amritanandamayi
(Amma) graced Deendayal Bhavan. He gave a
discourse on the Joy of Giving to the Karyakartas of
HSS & invited guests.
Swamiji invoked the blessing of his Guru (Amma), at the same time,
conveyed her love & regards to all present during the occasion.
Swamiji started his discourse by quoting Amma, “There are 2 important
days in everyone’s life: the day we are born & the day we realize why
we were born.” Unfortunately for many, only the first day comes, most
of the time, why we are born never comes. It is important for us to
reflect on why we are here, what is the purpose of this human birth
and what is it as human beings that we can contribute to the world?
At the end of each person’s life, there are 3 important questions that
come to our mind: Did I live? Did I share? Did I leave a mark? If we
can satisfactorily answer the above questions, then our life has to be
filled with the spirit of giving, otherwise not. He cited a few examples in
the life of Amma, on how she is living a life full of Giving, without
getting tired at all.
Swami Vivekanandaji used to ask, “What should be the spirit for
giving? And he replied by saying, Atmano Mokshartham Jagat Hitaya
Cha”, which means, “Through the act of giving, you purify yourself. This
helps you to understand your own nature, and the God in you. It is
through this act that the world is benefiting.”
Swamiji, ended the discourse with two important messages: Don’t
delay in giving and it is very important to have Spiritual Knowledge
while doing charity work.
Lastly, he thanked HSS for giving him the opportunity to share his
thoughts and lauded their efforts of passing on the great cultural
values to the younger generation. This in itself is a great service.
It was inspiring to note that we shall be blessed with the presence of
Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma) in Kenya in April.
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Shri Ashokji Singhal
27 September 1926 - 17 November 2015
(89 years of true living)
Shri Ashokji Singhal was born in Agra. He acquired a Bachelor’s
Degree in Mettalurgical Engineering from Banaras Hindu University. He
joined Sangh in 1942 and became a full time pracharak after his
graduation. He was the Prant Pracharak for Delhi and Haryana.
In 1980, he was appointed to the VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad). He
became the general secretary in1984 and later he became the
working president of the VHP, a position he continued to work for, till
about a month of his demise.
In 1984, a VHP Dharma Sansad (National Dharma Conference) was
help in Delhi, with sadhus and Hindu intelectuals from all over India
gathered to discuss issues pertaining to Hindu Dharma. Shri Ashokji was
the key karyakarta in organizing this event. It was in this conference
that the movement to reclaim Ram-Janmabhoomi was born. He was
the chief architect of Ram-Janmabhoomi movement.
Shri Ashokji visited Kenya in August 1998. While he was here, a Virat
Hindu Sangam was held at SSD Temple, Nairobi, which included a
grand procession on the streets of Nairobi and lectures on various
subjects over two days.
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The 80 Years Journey of Rashtra Sevika Samiti
| Mananeeya Alakaji Inamdar (Sah Sar Karyawahika)
Bharat! The very name brings before our eyes a great roll of ‘Sants’ and
‘Mahants’, exceptionally brave warriors, both men and women, in the service
of Motherland, Social Reformers, Artists of the highest order, Rishis and Munis
who, leading Spartan lives in far-off jungles, did penance in pursuit of the
eternal truth. The list is really inexhaustible.
Bharat of the yore was a rich country in terms of physical wealth and
bountifulness. But then, when bountifulness lasts long in a country, it perhaps
sets-in complacency. People of this great country lost their moorings and
slowly they forgot their duties towards the society/nation. It was a classic case
of people losing their identity.
However this society of ours is ‘Mrutyunjaya’, in the sense that the
mechanism of rejuvenation of the society is inbuilt. Time and again, this nation
has given birth to reformers in order to bring in necessary changes in the
society.
One such great son of Bharat Mata was Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar
alias P.P. Doctorji. He participated in the freedom struggle and mingled with
different groups engaged in this movement. He realized that it was important
to achieve political independence but it was much more important to
imbibe national fervour, blended with a sense of discipline in the society. In
1925, he founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh to achieve this end.
In this period the status of women in the society was not as enunciated in
the scriptures. Few women got educated. Though they took care of
household chores and were the guardians of the culture, they rarely
participated in freedom struggle or any other kind of nation building activity.
During these days of the freedom struggle, a not much educated woman
from ‘Wardha’ (a town near Nagpur, Maharashtra) by name of Lakshmibai
Kelakar started participating in various kinds of social activities. When her
husband passed away, the entire burden of bringing up their six siblings fell
upon young Lakshmibai. While shouldering this responsibility, in whatever little
time she got, she read extensively.
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She was inspired by the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda. She was
particularly moved by Swamiji’s utterance, “If an eagle has to fly high, both its
wings have to be equally strong. Similarly, a nation will prosper only if both
men and women shoulder the responsibility of nation-building in equal
measure.” She wondered and pondered as to how she could imbibe in
womenfolk all virtues that are necessary for national renaissance.
By then her sons had joined the ‘Shakha’ of Rashtriya Swayamsevak
Sangh. She was very much impressed by the methodology adopted by
Sangh. It was simple yet very effective. To her pleasant surprise the ideology
of Sangh was nothing but what was dear to her heart. She closely observed
the day-to-day activities of Sangh called ‘Shakha’, and appreciated it. She
thought similar activities for women would go long way in achieving the goal
of nation building. During one of the visits of P. P. Dr. Hedgewar to Wardha,
Lakshmibai met him and discussed at length. She requested him to allow
women to participate in ‘Shakha’. However P. P. Doctorji asked her to start an
independent organization on similar lines. He promised her to extend all help
in this endeavour. Thus Rashtra Sevika Samiti came into existence on the
auspicious day of ‘Vijaya Dashami’ in 1936.
Van. Taiji
Van. Maushiji
Another effort of similar kind had taken place in Pune by one Sarasvatibai
Apte. Her husband was an ardent Sangh Karyakarta. P. P. Doctorji came to
know about this in his visit to Pune. He in turn brought this to the knowledge of
Lakshmibai in Wardha. Lakshmibai promptly travelled to Pune to meet
Sarasvatibai. It was a unique incident. They met as if they knew each other
from a long time. They discussed about their activities and decided to work
together. Lakshmi and Sarasvati joined hands and incarnation of Shakti came
in to existence in the form of a strong organization of women for the cause of
nation building.
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Both of them travelled to different places to expand the Samiti work. The
sevikas who went to different places after marriage, started new Shakhas.
Most of the Karyakartas were Gruhinis (home-makers), but their dedication
saw them balance both the duties i.e. one duty toward their homes and
another toward the organization. Samiti work spread its wings to Gujarat,
Sindh and Madhya Bharat. A karyakarini was formed and Lakshmibai Kelakar
(now called Vandaneeya Mousiji out of respect & affection) was declared as
Pramukh Sanchalika and Mananeeya Sarasvatibai Apte (affectionately
called Taiji) as Pramukh Karyavahika. A small Karyakarini was formed with
dedicated Karyakartas like Nani Kolate, Mai Nagale, Sindhutai Phatak, Jethi
Devani, Bakultai Devakule to name a few. The first National Sammelan
(conference) was held in 1942 at Miraj. Sevikas from different places took part
and it was decided to have Prashikshan Vargs (Training Camps) in different
Provinces.
Suddenly the news of the partition of Bharat came like a bolt from the
blue. It was a period full of agony. The sevikas from Sindh wrote a letter to
Van. Mousiji. They expressed their feelings in very touching words. They
wanted to meet her one last time before partition. Those were very chaotic
days. Their very lives were in danger and the Hindu Dharma was under
attack. Van. Mousiji decided to travel to Karachi which was the most riot hit
place. All the sevikas were pleasantly surprised to hear that Van. Mousiji
would come to Karachi. She was taking a high risk. But she was determined.
She somehow managed to get two seats on the plane to Karachi from
Mumbai. She was accompanied by Mai Nagale. Sevikas from Sindh Prant
managed to gather in one place in Karachi. It was on the terrace of the
house of one of the sevikas.
This was the last 'Shakha' in Karachi attended by hundreds of sevikas.
Van. Mousiji addressed the sevikas and inspired them not to give-up hope
and not to succumb to any pressure. She told them that she was proud of
them.
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She promised that the sevikas from Bharat would extend all the help to
rehabilitate them if they had to come to Bharat. All the sevikas took oath in
front of Bhaghwa Dhwaj to protect the Hindu Dharma and their ‘Sheel’ even
at the cost of their lives. Van. Mousiji had to return to Bharat living behind her
sisters from Karachi with a mixed feeling of guilt and pride. There was guilt,
because she could not bring all of them with her and pride, because she had
experienced the courage of the sevikas in Sindh.
Because of some political reasons Sangh was banned in 1948. The Samiti
was not banned, but Van. Mousiji and the Karyakarini decided that all the
Samiti activities should be held in closed premises. Open ground activities
were stopped for a while. Sevikas were in the forefront in the activities of
rehabilitation of the sisters from Sindh and Punjab. They even collected the
signatures demanding revocation of the ban on Sangh. They visited the
families of Sangh Bandhus who were arrested and helped them in different
ways. When the ban on Sangh was revoked, the activities of Samiti resumed
as before. It was a resurge of the organizational work. Samiti Shakhas were
started in hitherto unreached provinces like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka,
Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, etc.
Van. Mousiji explained her vision of making the Samiti Karya more
tangible. She put her thoughts before the Karyakarini about having an
institute for women, having a syllabus which would make women the real
‘Bhartiya Mahila’. Man. Bakulatai came forward to bring the concept into
reality. A committee was floated in the name of ‘Bhartiya Stree Jeevan Vikas
Parishad’ in 1953.
A trust in the name of Rani Lakshmibai was established at Nasik (1958) for
Seva activities. Van. Mousiji encouraged different types of activities like
Bhajan, Hastakala (Handicraft), Pravachan, Gruha Udyog (cottage industries)
etc. She herself started the discourses on Ramayana giving a social
dimension to it. Samiti Shiksha Vargs were held in different provinces. Samiti
work was spreading with a steady pace.
http://www.rashtrasevikasamiti.org/
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Because of political unrest, emergency was declared in 1975. Sangh was
banned again. An agitation to re-establish the democracy was organized
under the guidance of Jay Prakash Narayan. Sangh Swayamsevaks played
an important role to make the movement successful. Thousands of
Swayamsevaks took part in Satyagrah. Sevikas also participated in the
agitation by offering Satyagrah. Many Sevikas were arrested and detained in
jails. Sevikas also put their efforts in boosting the morale of the families of
jailed Swayamsevaks. They even extended economical help to the families
whose earning members were jailed. They played an important role in
distributing the ‘Jagaran Patrak’ (a handbill which was clandestinely brought
out) amongst people at large. They provided protection to underground
workers.
Sum total of all these efforts was that the emergency was lifted and
Sangh and Samiti works were re-established. It was again a period of
resurgence. But Samiti had to face one more blow. Van. Mousiji left this
mortal world on 27th of Nov, 1978. She had anointed Van. Taiji as Pramukh
Sanchalika. Under her able leadership, Samiti work continued to spread
steadily. The concept of ‘Pracharika’ (Karyakartas offering their whole time for
the Samiti Karya) was accepted. Samiti Karya reached to far off places like
Assam, Jammu-Kashmir, Laddakh etc.
In the next few years, the Seva projects of Samiti were taking shape.
Samiti Karya was expanding in different walks of society. Many trusts were
founded to enable the Seva Karya. Chhatravas (free hostel for the girls from
remote places) is one of the major seva activities taken up by Sevikas. Each
chhatravas serves a unique cause. E.g. ‘Devi Ahilya Mandir Chatravas’ is for
the girls from North East. A Sevika by the name of Pushpa, who had stayed in
this Chhatravas is now looking after a Chhatravas in Manipur herself. One
more sevika named Tassi, is running a school in Nagaland and played an
important role in decreasing the differences in local communities. She was
awarded “Ojasvini Award”. The Chhatravas in Bilaspur is for the healthy
daughters of parents afflicted by leprosy.
Aditi Kanya Chhatravas in Jammu is for the girls who have lost their parents in
terrorist attacks or at actual war front. There are some 20 Chhatravas in
different provinces. There are different Seva projects like Blood-Bank, Rugna
Sahitya Seva Prakalp (to provide the medical equipments to needy people),
Arogya Rakshika Prakalp, Gruhini Udyog (to empower needy women economically), and the list goes on. There are 51 trusts serving in various ways in
different provinces.
18
Even at the time of natural calamities Samiti stood in the fore front. It may
be Tsunami or earth quake or cloud bursting; Samiti always extended the
helping hand to rehabilitate the affected people. After the catastrophic
earth quake in Gujarat in 2001, Samiti adopted one village called ‘Mayapur’.
The houses were rebuilt and handed over to the women folk on the condition
that it should be an alcohol free village. Recently the award of 'Clean and
Educated Village' was given to Mayapur by the Government of India. Sevikas
rushed to the places affected by Tsunami and consoled the family members
who had lost their kith & kin. They provided small boats to the fishermen there.
Some 50 girls were provided education after the cloud bursting in Kedarnath.
Samiti reached Nepal and offered the helping hand during the earthquake.
Rashtra Sevika Samiti has published many books under the banner of
Sevika Prakashan. One project of this publication is ‘Din-Darshika’, a
calendar according to Hindu Panchang. The unique feature of this calendar
is it deals with some special subject each year. Some of the important
subjects covered under this project are - contribution of Bharat to the field of
science, rivers of Bharat, Jagannath Ratha Yatra etc. Samiti has undertaken a
number of movements like Svadeshi Jagaran Abhiyan, Vande Mataram
Abhiyan, Kashmir Bachao, and also participated in the famous Ram
Janmabhoomi Abhiyan and Amaranath Andolan. Sevikas give able
leadership locally whenever any crisis arises.
After Van. Taiji, Van. Ushataiji Chati became Pramukh Sanchalika (1995).
She handed over the responsibility to Van. Pramilataiji (2006). In 2004, at the
age of 75, as a part of birth centenary celebration of Van. Mousiji,
Van.Pramilataiji travelled to every nook and corner of the country with the
Pradarshini (exhibition) of life sketch of Van. Mousiji. She addressed 108
programs at different places from Kashmir to Kanyakumari including one
program in Nepal. She travelled for 270 days continuously and travelled
28,000km across Bharat. Van. Pramilataiji in turn has passed on the
responsibility to the present Pramukh Sanchalika, Van. Shantakkaji.
This year, Samiti will complete its 80 years of fruitful existence. The
nationwide programs of Yuvati Sammelan, which were the outreaching
programs for the youths of the age group of 18 - 45 years, have been
organized nearly at 200 places. The Sankhya ranged from 80 to 3,000 in
different places. Approximately 55,000 Yuvatis participated in these
Sammelans. The road ahead is challenging. But Sevikas with their
determination and dedication will offer their best to rebuild the vibrant and
prosperous Hindu Rashtra which is the goal of Rashtra Sevika Samiti.
19
The 4H View of Sangh
In the recently concluded VSS 2015 in Indore, Mananeeya Sar
Karyawaah, Shri Bhaiyaji Joshi explained the 4H idea of Sangh in the
Samarop Baudhik. For Sangh Kaarya to progress with greater strides,
the following four aspects, all beginning with the letter H, must
improve in every swayamsevak from Shakha level to Vishwa level.
Heart
Hand
Performing Sangh karya
from within the heart is
important to achieve
fruitful results. A forced
duty will not yield same
results. Also the concept
of Aatmiyata among
swayamsevaks is to be
remembered at all times
whilst doing Sangh
work.
By strengthening the numbers in our
Gats and Shakhas by introducing more and
more to Sangh. Also by involvement in Seva
Projects and by venturing into the local
community. More hands will ensure enhanced
efficiency in spreading the message of Sangh
and Hindutva
Head
Health
Swayamsevaks, along with all the above
aspects, must improve their health for making an
impact on the strides towards our goal. Good
health can be achieved by Yoga, Shareerik
karyakram in daily Shakhas and by Ayurveda.
20
Increasing the
knowledge of Sangh
and Dharma among the
swayamsevaks will
strengthen their belief in
Sangh Dhyeya.
Sanskaars developed
from Shakhas and Sangh
Karya Paddhati makes
Karyakartas.
Baal Story
Compassionate and caretaking Doctorji
In the early days of Sangh, a day-long picnic (outing) had been
organized in the outskirts of Nagpur. Everyone was expected to bring
his own lunch box. Some swayamsevaks were staying at hostels to
attend school in Nagpur city. There was no “mom” to pack a lunch
box for them! They did not eat dinner the previous night - packed that
food into boxes and took it with them to the picnic next day.
The outing went off extremely well. They all hiked, played games
rigorously, and eventually became extremely hungry. For hostel boys,
the small quantity of previous night’s dinner was nowhere enough - it
disappeared, leaving them still hungry. Other swayamsevaks went
home. They could eat at home again; and the hostel boys had
nothing. Only Doctorji sensed this. He brought extra food for them.
Unknown to them, he also gave them his own food. Their stomachs
were full and they enjoyed. Only years later, they realized what an
affectionate gesture that was from Doctorji, who was so poor that he
himself went hungry several times in a week.
Doctorji’s life has always been an inspiration for all swayamsevaks and
sevikas who are putting their efforts in uniting Hindus and making Hindu
society strong.
21
Puzzles Corner

What number should replace the question mark in the following
pattern?

Can you identify these places of worship?
The solution to the last issue’s puzzle:
The answer was 0. to make the bottom line read 4608.
Seeing from the top line, 9x8=72; 72x8=576; 576x8=4608
22
Sangh Vichar
(Extracted from the Sanket column of Sangh Sandesh)
We like to worship successful people. Successful people can also like
to be praised or appreciated. We grow up in a society that rewards
brownie points or stars. We tend to remain active when we are praised
and become inactive if we are criticised. Our behaviour becomes like
baggage with a sticker on saying ‘handle with care’.
If the group applauds one thing we do feel good; we will worry if they
do not applaud as loudly the next time. If they criticize, argue or
complain, we will feel hurt. Either way, we are anxious and
dependent. If we measure success in terms of praise and criticism, our
anxiety will be endless.
Having a good reputation or becoming well known for our work
can be a hindrance to our further development. A good reputation
naturally arises from doing good work. But if we try to cherish our
reputations, if we try to preserve it, we lose the freedom and honesty
necessary for further development.
In order to do good work, we must take good care of ourselves. We
must value ourselves and allow others to value us also. But if we make
too much of ourselves, we will become egocentric.
Egocentricity injures both self and work. If we can live with the fruits of
success and care for ourselves properly, we will be able to foster
success in other people. Isn’t it interesting that:
• The flashy leader lacks stability.
• Trying to rush matters gets us nowhere.
• Trying to appear brilliant is not enlightened.
• Insecure leaders try to promote themselves.
• Impotent leaders capitalise on their position.
• It is not very holy to point out how holy we are.
Finally, if we really want to judge the character of a person, don’t look
at his/her great performances. Everyone may become a hero at one
time or another. Watch a person do his most common actions - those
are indeed the things that tell us the real character of a great person.
23
My Experience at the VSS - 2015
Mamtaben Vyas | Gruhini
Among different Baudhhik session, the most I liked was the POSTER SESSION
which was presented by 8 different countries. It displayed the various
activities conducted in each of these countries. Here are the brief activities
which can be implemented to our Shakhas in Kenya:








USA - People from different communities are invited and explained the
importance of Raksha Bandhan. Also teachers of the kids going to
Shakha are invited for Guru Vandana to show the importance of Guru
(teachers) in our lives by appreciating them.
GUYANA AND SURINAME - Guyana celebrated the National Diya and
International Yoga Day in 2015. Suriname also celebrated yoga day
under the title "Yoga for Health". In the past they have organised Surya
Namaskar Yagya.
AUSTRALIA - Marked Raksha Bandhan under "Universal Brotherhood Day".
Celebrated HAIFA Day where there was collaboration of Hindus with local
communities. Yuva Camp was organised for all Youths attending
University.
NEPAL – provided assistance in Nepal Earthquake relief fund and Rehab
activity for the people who were affected and suffered in earthquake.
SRILANKA – To mark the Swami Vivekananda ji’s Birth Centenary, around
140 regional conferences were held in different parts whose aim was to
reach 500,000 Hindus. The aim was to spread Swami ji's message.
MYANMAR AND SINGAPORE - Various activities like food distribution,
Traditional Game Festivals etc, have been held to connect Buddhists with
Indian Hindu community.
UK - formed the National Hindu Students Forum that aims to engage
Hindu students with issues affecting society. Several outreach programs
have also been organized that connect us with the broader Hindu
Society.
KENYA – details of the 1st UN's International Yoga Day were given and
how HSS is connected with Hindu Council of Kenya in different activities
like school feeding, tree planting projects etc.
This was a very informative session. These are ideas that I feel can be
implemented in our Shakhas here in Kenya.
24
Aakashji Patel | Yuva
What I had in mind: It was my first VSS and I had mixed expectations.
Since we yearly have December Camp I thought it would be the
same.
The first impression: I was surprised and amazed at the same time.
Surprised by, the way every one would meet them as they arrive as if
they know each other by greeting and introducing themselves.
Amazed by, the way they received us. Every single person was
accounted for and everything was pre-arranged! A well coordinated
Shivir!
Adhikaris I met: I was privileged to have interaction with Shri Mohan Ji and
Shri Susmaji Swaraj. Credit for selfies goes to Saumitra Ji .
One thing that I still remember: The interaction with Mohanji Bhagvat and
Shusmaji Swaraj and the yuva team work session.
The Karyakram that made me a better swayamsevak: In Baudhik vibhag,
the workshop I learned most from was Spiritual Growth in Yuva. In the
Sharerik vibhag , Niyuddh was my favorite because it helped me in
my self defense and corrected some of my postures which I was
doing incorrectly!
The ambience suited for peace, joy and learning: The ambience was
simply amazing, very spacious and most importantly every age group
had its dedicated workshop and to host for 780 people... trust me, you
need a very big space and co-ordination.
Would I go again? Yes, definitely! I got to learn and meet new people, I
will always wait to go again in future and will also recommend any
new swayamsevak who is irregular and would want to clear doubts
about HSS activities.
In one sentence: A workshop where you get to clear doubts, learn and
meet new people across the globe under one roof.
25
Vibhakarji Patel | Proudh
Everyone whom I met was of the opinion that the shibir sthan was ultra
modern, beautiful, spotlessly clean, comfortable and expansive. All the
arrangements perfectly planned in the minutest details. It was a wonderful
experience meeting so many karyakartas from the far four corners of the
world. It seems the sun never sets on Sangh Karya,
The Prabandaks worked really hard selflessly and were ever so willing to assist
the shibirarthis always with smiles on their faces. They indeed did a
remarkable job.
Baudhik Vibhag: Thought provoking varied subjects in various parallel sessions.
Enlightening Baudhiks. It was nice and heartening to have Darshan of so
many Akhil Bharatiya Sthar Adhikaris. It was a novel idea to have organized
the Pratyaksheek karyakram/ Samarop in the vast and beautiful auditorium.
Ghosh and other Shareerik karyakrams were impressive. Sanskritik karyakrams
were captivating and presentation impressive.
It was nice to note that there was a mix of karyakartas from different countries
in the awases.
Meals: A large variety and sumptuous. We are all Sangh swayamsevaks and
would have happily put up with simpler meals. It seems the organisers wished
to give a grand treat to the overseas karyakartas.
On the final night the various colourful traditional groups danced with a
tremendous zeal over beating of drums. Karyakartas joined with equal
jubilation and fervor.
The VSS reflected an extraordinary unity in diversity as karyakartas hailing
from diverse countries, belonging to diverse professions, speaking different
languages, originating from diverse states of Bharat, joined together with a
common purpose and mission deeply rooted in their hearts.
Shri Vibhakarji is a swayamsevak from Kenya. He has been the Nairobi Nagar
Karyawah in the past. He is currently residing in India, doing Sangh karya with the
same inspiring passion as always.
26
Samarthji Vyas | Baal
I had an excellent experience in the VISHWA SANGH SHIBIR. As soon as I
arrived at Indore Railway Station, I saw a banner saying Vishwa Sangh Shibir
and we headed towards the people holding the banner. That was a very
warm welcome. Then a car took us to the outskirts of Indore where the Shibir
was going to be held.
We came out of the car and stepped on the land of Emerald Heights
International School and walked to the registration desk. My mum and sister
went to the Samiti Awas called Rani Padmawati Samiti Awas. My father and I
went to our Awas called Fort Prithwiraj Swayamsevak Awas in a golf cart. It
was fun in the cart. We were told to go to room number 13 called Sudarshan
Chakra. The rooms were spacious and had beds - the first Shibir with beds! but the pillows were hard. We kept our luggage and went to freshen up. We
were 11 swayamsevaks in our room from different countries like Canada, UAE
and New Zealand. Then we went for breakfast, which was very very tasty!
We went round the massive school taking pictures. The places in the school
were named Dhruv castle, Prithwiraj Awas, Rani Padmawati Awas, Anapurna
bhawan, Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Prahlad building, Mani Dweep,
Ashokji Singhal Sabhagriha and many more places.
We started the shibir with a procession, after that there was a havan. On that
day there was nothing much. Then we registered and got our shibir kit which
included a pen, book, sanitiser, bottle and another book which had the
schedule and boudhik patrika.
All the swayamsevaks in the shibir were divded into many sections like Bal
vibhag, Swakeeya shreni, Yuva shreni and Karyakarta shreni.
Then the shibir starts! In the early morning we had games then everyone had
breakfast together in the Anapurna Bhawan and the timetable continued.
We also had a trip to a Hanumanji temple, a papad factory called “420
Papad Factory” and Lal Bag Palace where we rode on a horse cart and it
was really fun with my friends from other countries! We also did some wall
climbing in the school.
This was the best experience I had, as I got many friends from very many
countries.
27
Neetiji Soni | Yuvika
Held at the Emerald Heights International School - Indore, VSS 2015 was a
great experience for me. Connecting with people from so many different
countries was great. Knowing that so many people working whole heartedly
towards the same goal around the world was inspiring and motivating.
Listening to their experiences of vistaar or challenges faced by them in their
area was quite helpful.
The VSS was filled with sessions the whole day which kept us on the move.
From the early morning ish chintan till the ratri karyakrams, the whole day was
filled with shakha, khel, inspiring bauddhiks, interactive group activities and
the parallel sessions. Being in the yuva shreni helped me understand how
yuvas do Shakha work around the world. Some of the sessions which I can't
forget were the "Spiritual growth of youth" (yuva shreni) and the bauddhik on
Balasahebji by Mananeeya Mohanji Bhagwat.
Hearing from Mananeeya Mohanji Bhagwat during the yuva session was the
best thing I could take from VSS because he's so selfless and motivating that
pushes you to do your best in the future. Apart from this, being a shikshika was
also a different experience as I got to work with people from different
continents which helped me learn new ideas. A few highlights from the VSS
were the Shobha yatra, Smt. Sumitra Mahajan's speech in the Udghatan,
some amazing acts in the ratri karyakram and the Sarafa style dinner.
I feel every sevika/swayamsevak should at least attend one VSS in their life as
its totally a different experience from the regular camps.
28
Kenya Pictorial
Teachers and students of the
Vivekanand Baal Nursery
perform Yoga on their Sports
Day in February 2016.
Vivekanand Baal Nursery
located in Deendayal
Bhavan is fully managed by
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh
and consists of many local
students
Nakuru swayamsevaks and sevikas with the Nagar Karyawah,
Shri Jairamji Ankola during Varsh Pratipada Utsav
A recent tree planting at the
Suswa Girls School, held on
Sunday, 10th April.
Hindu Religious and Services
Centre (HRSC), which is the Seva
wing of HSS,Kenya has also been
awarded by Total Kenya for
planting the most number of trees
across Kenya.
29
Kenyan Swayamsevaks sing about Dharma
….in Kiswahili
The Kenyan swayamsevaks and sevikas sang a Sangh geet in
Kiswahili at the recently held VSS-2015. The song was translated into
the national language of Kenya very carefully by veteran Mombasa
swayamsevaks such that the meaning or the tune of the geet
remained unchanged.
Following the warm reception of the geet at the VSS by everyone,
especially those who have spent time in Kenya, the swayamsevaks
wanted to present the favourite geet to local audience.
In early February 2016, the Hindu Council of Kenya organised a major expo
event dubbed “Vibrant Kenya Expo”, whereby various commercial and
non-commercial institutions exhibited their products for local Kenyans to
come and view. It was a 3 day event and in the evenings there would be a
cultural presentation by various institutes in the auditorium at Oshwal Centre,
Nairobi.
Nairobi nagar swayamsevaks, sevikas, caretakers of Deendayal Bhavan and
teachers of Vivekanand Bal Mandir practiced and came up with a very
enjoyable presentation of the geet complete with props and dances. The
audience really appreciated the geet, not only for its face value, but also the
message embedded in the beautiful Sangh geet (Ish Hame Deta He Sab
Kuch) about Dharma and humanism.
30
Shri Eknathji Ranade
(1914 - 1982)
| Sunita Shir
Early life and education
|
Eknathji was born on 19 November 1914 in Timtala, Amravati district,
Maharashtra. In 1920, his family moved to Nagpur and Eknathji had his
primary education in Pradanavispura School. In 1932, he passed his
matriculation examination from the New English High School in Nagpur. After
schooling he got his degree in Master of Arts in Philosophy with honours.
As a young College student in Nagpur in 1930s, he turned to Swami
Vivekananda to understand Sanatana Dharma in the context of the religions
in the world. The call of Swami Vivekananda ‘to dedicate one’s life for the
nation’ captured young Eknathji’s heart and strengthened his thought of
dedicating his life for the country.
Sangh swayamsevak
|
Eknathji served as an important activist, ideologue and leader for RSS. He was
influenced by Doctorji during his schooling years. So, Eknathji joined RSS and
became a Swayamsevak in 1926. In 1938, Eknathji moved to Mahakoshal,
Madhya Pradesh as a Pranth Pracharak. In 1950, he worked as a Kshetra
Pracharak for Poorvanchal Kshetra comprising Bengal, Orissa, and Assam. In
1953, Ekanthji became the Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh. From 1956 to
1962, he served as the Sarkaryawah. During this period he tried to refocus RSS
towards the task of character-building, instead of a pursuing a more activist
stance in co-ordination with affiliated organisations. In 1962, he was selected
as Akhil Bharateeya Baudhik Pramukh of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
31
Service with a spiritual orientation results
in man making which is invariably and
inseparably connected with nation
building. It is the core of all our thoughts
behind this organization.
- Eknathji Ranade
32
The Grand Memorial
|
As the birth centenary of Swami Vivekananda was approaching, Eknathji was
given the responsibility to publish a book compiling the message of Swami
Vivekanand.
He was deeply influenced by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. In 1963,
during the centenary year of Swami Vivekananda's birth, he published a
selection of Swami Vivekananda's writing under the title Rousing Call to Hindu
Nation, as a personal tribute.
That same year, Eknathji conceived the idea of building a monument of at
the mid-sea rock location near Kanyakumari, where Vivekananda had
meditated for three days in December 1892 before proceeding to Chicago.
After receiving enthusiastic responses from the then Sar Sanghchalak, Guruji
and others, he established the Vivekananda Rock Memorial Organising
Committee and became its organising Secretary. Various branches of the
committee were established across the country (with future BJP leader L. K.
Advaniji serving as the organising secretary of the Delhi branch) to build
support, and later raise funds, for the memorial. When the idea was initially
rejected by the Minister of Education and Culture, Humayun Kabir, Shri
Eknathji drummed up support from over 300 members of the Indian
Parliament, which led to the project receiving approval from the Prime
Minister, Indira Gandhi. He also managed to win endorsement for the project
from a diverse section of the political and spiritual community, including
sections traditionally in opposition of RSS.
One Life One Mission
|
Swami Vivekananda had told that each nation has a message to deliver, a
mission to accomplish, a destiny to fulfil. India has to guide the world in
spirituality, in making man realise his divine nature. When we are born in India
our mission in life is always linked to the mission of our motherland. Shri
Eknathji used to say what better plan can we have than work in an organised
way to make India deliver her message in the interest of goodness of
humanity. Each life should be focused on a chosen goal. Eknathji left us in the
year 1982, but he left us with a powerful message - ONE LIFE ONE MISSION!
33
Dakshin Bharat Darshan
Last year before VSS 2015 in Indore, a group of 22 participants of mainly
from Kenya made a pre- tour to South India, which covered three states
(Karnataka, Tamilnadu, and Kerala) from 14 th to 27th December 2015. This
article only gives a glimpse of the incredible द
ण भारत (south India), which
cannot be described fully in words.
The Route
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Bengaluru
Mysuru
Ooty and Kotagiri
Palani
Madurai
Thanjavur and Thiruchirappali
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
Kanyakumari
Kovallam and Thiruvananthapuram
Allepey
Kochi (Ernakulam)
Munnar
The main languages spoken in the three states and their capitals are:



Karnataka
Tamil Nadu
Kerala
-
Kannada
Tamil
Malayalam
-
34
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Chennai (Madras)
Cochin (Ernakulam)
Karnataka
Bengaluru (Bangalore) is the capital city of Karnataka. It’s also known as the
Silicon Valley of India.
Sri Radha Krishna Temple has deities
of Radha and Krishna located at
Rajajinagar, Bangalore. It is one of the
largest ISKCON temples in the world.
The temple is a huge cultural complex
that was inaugurated in 1997 by
Shankar Dayal Sharma.
The Bull Temple is dedicated to Nandi
bull (vehicle of Shiva). It is one of the
oldest temple of the city. Kempe
Gowda - founder of Bengaluru, got
the temple built during his time. The
bull statue is the 4th largest of India,
which is made off one single stone.
The Mysore Palace is the official residence and the seat of the Wadeyars — the
Royal family of Mysore, who ruled the princely state from 1399 to 1950. The palace
houses 2 durbar halls which incorporates huge 3D paintings, a mesmerizing and
gigantic array of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The palace is in central
Mysore and faces the Chamundi Hills Eastward. Built by the Maharaja
Rajarshi H. H. Krishnarajendra Wadiyar IV, Mysore Palace attracts more
than 6 million visitors annually
35
Tamil Nadu
Ooty is situated in the Nilgiri hills (Blue
mountains) at 7347ft. It is also dubbed
the Queen of Hill Stations. Kotagiri is
one of the oldest hill stations in the
Nilgiris. It is surrounded by nature and
tea plantation.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is located on the of Vaigai River
in Madurai. It is dedicated to Parvati(Meenakshi) and Shiva
(Sundareswarar). It is also said that the temple was
plundered in the 14th century by Malik Kafur. The temple
was rebuilt by Vishwanatha Nayak. It has 14 towers, upto
50m in height. There are an estimated 33,000 single-stone
sculptures in the temple. It was on the list of top 30
nominees for the seven wonders of the world. Madurai is the
oldest city of Tamil Nadu. The temple is believed to be more
than 2500 years old.
Brihadiswara Temple in Thanjavur is
dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an
example of Chola architecture. It was
constructed in the 10th century by
Rajaraja. The temple is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site as Great Living Chola
Temples. The vimanam (temple tower) is
216 ft (66 m) high and is the tallest in the
world.
Kanyakumari is the Southernmost tip of the Indian
peninsula. The name is from Devi Kanya Kumari
(Parvati) who did penance here to marry Lord Shiv.
Kanyakumari is famous for Swami Vivekananda
rock memorial, which was built in 1970 with the
immense struggle and hard work by Man. Eknathji
Ranade. It is here that Swami Vivekanand chose to
meditate (at the feet of Bharat Mata) for 3days.
Other places visited in Tamil Nadu were: Thiruchapalli (Ranganatha Swamy Temple),
the Murugan Temple at Palani Hill, Suchindaram Thanumalayam Temple and
Padmanabhapuram Palace.
36
Kerala
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
(Tiruvananthpuram) is a combination of Kerala
and Dravidian architecture. The temple has a
Lord Vishnu idol, reclining on Anantha, the
hooded serpent. It is currently run by a trust
headed by the erstwhile royal family of
Travancore. It is said to be the 2nd richest temple.
Kovalam is a beach town by the
Arabian Sea in Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala, located around 16 km from
the city center. Kovalam means a
grove of coconut trees and true to its
name, the village offers an endless
sight of coconut trees.
Allepey is also known as Alappuzha. It is an
important tourist destination in India. The
backwaters of Alappuzha are the most popular
tourist attraction in Kerala especially for the
houseboat cruises. The name is derived from the
geographical position and physical features of
the place. It means the land between the sea
and network of rivers flowing into it.
Swayamsevaks and Sevikas
at the Bhaskara Rao
Bhavan in Kochi, named
after the 1st RSS pranth
pracharak of Kerala Sri
Bhaskara Rao and is
situated next to the
Madhav Nivas, the Sangh
Karyalay.
Other places visited in Kerala included the tea plantations in Munnar hill station
37
Did you know…
BHARATIYA DIASPORA IS WORLD’SLARGEST AT 16M:
According to the latest United Nations
estimates, 244 million people, or 3.3% of the
world's population, live in a country other
than the one where they were born. Their
ranks are growing at a faster pace than
the world population as a whole, with
enormous economic, social and
demographic repercussions for their native
and adopted countries.
However, they are concentrated in just 20
countries. By far, the most popular
destination in 2015 was the United States,
followed by Germany, Russia and Saudi
Arabia.
Among the migrants worldwide
are 20 million refugees — those who have
fled war or persecution in their home
countries.
Bharatiyas make up the largest diaspora:
16 million Bharatiyas are scattered across
the world, which partly reflects the
country's demographic size (1.2 billion) and
youth (median age is around 26).
After Bharat, Mexico has the second
largest diaspora, with 12 million living
abroad, the majority of them in the US.
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Why do we…
...do Namaste
We greet each other with Namaste. The two
palms are placed together in front of the chest
and the head bows whilst saying Namaste. This
greeting is for all - younger, older, friends,
strangers, male or female. But why do we do
Namaste?
In Sanskrit namah + te = namaste. It means I
bow to you. It has a spiritual significance of
negating or reducing one’s ego in the
presence of another.
The real meeting between two people is the
meeting of their minds. When we greet
someone with a Namaste, we mean “may our
minds meet”.
The spiritual meaning is even deeper. The life
force, divinity or the soul in one is the same in
all. By doing and saying Namaste to someone,
we are actually recognising the divine soul
inside that person.
When we know this significance, our greeting
doesn't just remain a superficial gesture, instead
it paves way for a deeper communion with
another in an atmosphere of love and respect.
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नम कार
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (Kenya)
www.hsskenya.org
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