More than 200 Hindu-American kids in Metro Atlanta spent their Spring Break last week learning about their rich culture and heritage at the Hindu Heritage Camps organized by the Atlanta chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS). The camps took place from April 3-9 in the cities of Lake City, Marietta, Alpharetta, Duluth and Norcross. 

Engaging and exciting, the camp presented knowledge on Hindu culture, its traditions, customs, and Samskaar (values) in a dynamic way. The day began with the assembly, introduction, and orientation to the participants. This was followed by Yoga, Suryanamaskar and cultural games expressing various traditional and cultural values. For example, the significance of the Hindu greeting of Namaste, meaning “I bow to the divinity within you”, was explained with the help of a couple, yet memorable games. Other games such as Ram-Sita, Sudarshan Chakra, etc explained many religio-cultural concepts in a fun way.

The afternoon began with an introduction to Hindu Arts in which Chandrika Chandran, the director of Natyanjali for Bharatnatyam, showed a powerpoint presentation on the rich Hindu dance forms from different parts of India. An engaging, practical session introduced the participants to the Bharatnatyam form of classical dance. Arts and Crafts sessions included a Drawing competition on the “Diwali” theme and crafting of the sacred Hindu symbol – the saffron flag. The participants were explained about the significance of this symbol representing the saffron flames of fire or Agni, which in turn symbolizes purity.

The camp song combined inspirational devotional aspects of Dharma and was titled “Sacchaa veer bana de maa”. Shlokas such as the Bhojan Mantra and the Deepojvalanam Mantra that are recited before eating and while lighting a lamp, respectively, were taught. Suneetha Ramana who sent her 8-year old daughter to 4 camps noted, “My daughter would normally go to a day-care during the Spring breaks since I am a working mom. Since the Spring break Hindu Heritage camps were started last year she now has an alternative she simply loves. It is amazing also how much she learns about the Hindu values and customs in this one week.”

The camps concluded with a short presentation to the parents of the many things the participating kids learnt at the camps. Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh is a registered non-profit, 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization in the United States with more than 75 active chapters across the country. In the Metro Atlanta area, HSS has 4 chapters for youth activities and Balagokulams for kids. For more information, contact Yogesh Rathi at 404-643-9565 or visit www.hssworld.org  or www.balagokulam.org.