Vedanta Vidya Peetam

Day 2: Hanuman Sundara Kanda Summer Camp Countdown!
Dear Young Adventurers and Parents,

Welcome back to the Hanuman Sundara Kanda Summer Camp countdown! We're now just 9 days away from our exciting journey through the adventures of Hanuman, the mighty monkey god. Let's continue building the excitement with more fun activities and stories.

The Birth of Hanuman: Did you know that Hanuman's birth is filled with miracles and divine blessings? He was born to Anjana and Kesari, with the blessings of Vayu, the god of wind. Hanuman's birth was destined to assist Lord Rama in his quest.

Fun Activity: Hanuman Treasure Hunt Today, let’s have some fun with a Hanuman-themed treasure hunt! Hide small items (like toys, coins, or treats) around your home and create clues that lead to each item. Each clue should relate to Hanuman's story or his characteristics (e.g., "Find the treasure where you might feel a breeze like Vayu," "Look under the place where you rest your head like Hanuman rests after his adventures").

Instructions:

Clue 1: The Windy Clue
Clue: "Find the treasure where you might feel a breeze like Vayu, the wind god, Hanuman’s father." Hint: Look near a fan or an open window.

Clue 2: The Fiery Tail
Clue: "Hanuman's tail was set on fire in Lanka. Look where you would find something to put out a fire." Hint: Check near a fire extinguisher or water source.

Clue 3: The Mountain Lift
Clue: "Hanuman lifted a mountain to find a healing herb. Find the treasure where you keep medicines." Hint: Search in the medicine cabinet or first aid kit.

Clue 4: The Golden Palace
Clue: "Hanuman entered Ravana’s golden palace to find Sita. Look where you might keep your treasures." Hint: Look in a jewelry box or a safe.

Clue 5: The Mighty Leap
Clue: "Hanuman took a mighty leap across the ocean. Find the treasure where you might take a big leap." Hint: Check near the front door or in the backyard, where you might jump or play.

These clues can be hidden around the house to make the treasure hunt an exciting and educational activity that ties into Hanuman’s adventures.

Challenge: Hanuman's Strength Hanuman is known for his incredible strength. If you had Hanuman's strength, what heroic deed would you do? Write down or share your ideas with your family.

Camp Countdown: 9 Days to Go! Every day, we’ll send you a fun email with a new activity or story snippet to keep the excitement alive. Get ready for more adventures and fun!

Today's Fun Fact: Hanuman's name means "disfigured jaw" in Sanskrit, as he once tried to eat the sun, thinking it was a fruit, and was struck by Indra’s thunderbolt on his jaw.

Stay Connected: Make sure you’re all set for our Zoom session. Here’s a checklist:

Mark the date on your calendar: June 28th, 2024 at 10.00AM PST
Check your internet connection
Find a quiet place where you and your family can sit and listen to Hanuman's story.
We’re looking forward to hearing about your treasure hunts and heroic deeds! Keep an eye on your inbox for tomorrow’s exciting email!

Happy Treasure Hunting and Imagining!

Warm regards,
Sundara Kanda Summer Camp Committee

Please register here, if you have not enrolled already:

Sundara kand A 90-Minute Journey Through the Epic Ramayana for Indian Children in the US

Dear Ramayana Summer Campers and Parents,

In just 10 days, we’ll listen to the exciting story of Hanuman, the mighty monkey god. If you have not enrolled already for the FREE Ramayana summer camp, then do so now. Enroll Link; https://vedanta-peetam.newzenler.com/courses/sundara-kand

Meet Hanuman: Did you know that Hanuman is one of the most beloved characters in Ramayana? Known for his immense strength, courage, and devotion to Lord Rama, Hanuman’s adventures inspire us to be brave and kind.

Draw Hanuman: Today, let’s kick off our countdown with a creative activity. Draw your version of Hanuman! Use crayons, markers, or any art supplies you like. Imagine Hanuman flying with his mace, lifting mountains, or showing his immense strength. Sample drawing is shown below.

Superpower Daydreaming: If you could have one superpower like Hanuman, what would it be and why? Share your thoughts with your family or write them down.

Take the Quiz: Take Hanuman's quiz to check how much you know about him in the curriculum section. https://vedanta-peetam.newzenler.com/courses/sundara-kand/dashboard

Camp Countdown: 10 Days to Go! Every day, we’ll send you a fun message with a new activity or story snippet to keep the excitement alive. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Today's Fun Fact: Hanuman is also known as Pavanputra because he is the son of Vayu, the god of wind. This is why he can fly and has incredible strength!

Stay Connected: Make sure you’re all set for our Zoom story session. Here’s a checklist:

Mark the date on your calendar: [Friday, the 28th of June, 2024 at 10.00AM PST]
Check your internet connection
Find a quiet place to sit with your family to listen to the story.
Happy Drawing, Dreaming and Learning!

Warm regards,
Summer Camp Committee

Note to Parents: We encourage you to share these activities with your children and help them prepare for the Zoom session. Feel free to send us pictures of their drawings or share their superpower ideas. Thank you for being part of this exciting journey!

Stay Connected: If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to us at through email [email protected].

See you tomorrow with another fun activity!

*Let's find out Yudhishtira's question for today*

Come and enjoy 🙂🙏

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Organized by: Vedanta Peetam
*Topic: Yaksha Prashna (Mahabharata)*
Time: June 8th, 2024 10:30 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6501676592

Meeting ID: 650 167 6592
=====================================================

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Organized by: Vedanta Peetam
*Topic: Yaksha Prashna (Mahabharata)*
Time: June 1st, 2024 10:30 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6501676592

Meeting ID: 650 167 6592
=====================================================

Join our Cloud HD Video Meeting Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars across mobile, desktop, and room systems. Zoom Rooms is the original software-based conference room solution used around the world in board, confer...

Let's sit around and listen to the story with our children:

Tomorrow's session will have Yaksha ask the below question to Yudhishtira:

"What is the most important thing a person should save when it is at risk?"

This question invites a discussion on priorities and values, asking what should be protected above all else when in danger.

Yudhishtira's answer:

"One should save their self-respect above all."
"When things get tough, the most important thing to protect is how you feel about yourself. Make sure you can always be proud of what you do."

This answer highlights the importance of maintaining one's dignity and moral integrity, even in challenging situations. Yudhishthira suggests that while external possessions can be regained, preserving one's self-respect and inner values is crucial and irreplaceable.

Listen to couple stories to reinforce the above concept.

*children and parents, all are welcome. Moral stories are both fun and life saving.

=============================================================
Organized by: Vedanta Peetam
Topic: Yaksha Prashna (Mahabharata)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6501676592

Meeting ID: 650 167 6592
=====================================================

Join our Cloud HD Video Meeting Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars across mobile, desktop, and room systems. Zoom Rooms is the original software-based conference room solution used around the world in board, confer...

Dear Families,

Get ready to watch online - Just 3 days to go.

Count down starts for yet another celebration. We are hosting Vendanta Vidya Peetam Annual Recital event virtually in ZOOM.

ALL ARE WELCOME to watch the LIVE ONLINE ZOOM recital

Dear Families,

The celebration continues.

We are planning to host a VIRUTAL Annual Sloka Recital event. The invitation and more details to follow.

Stay tuned on.

Dear Families,

All set for tomorrow’s wonderful event!

We are so excited to see our Vedanta Vidya Peetam families at our Annual Recital Event tomorrow !

We really appreciate our Volunteering parents who are committed to the happy and smooth functioning of this event.

STUDENT Check-in time will start at 2.30 PM PST. We request all of you to be at the venue 10 min before the check-in starts.

We are excited to share the FACEBOOK LIVE STREAM LINK below, Please feel free to share with your Parents and relatives so that they also can watch remotely.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1877330479380825/

See you soon !

www.facebook.com

Dear Families,

One more day to go !

We are so excited for our upcoming Annual Recital Event! We can't wait to see all our Vedanta Vidya Peetam children and families . Please do share the invite and spread the positivity among your friends.

We wanted to remind you that you have the option of sharing the link and asking your friends to RSVP.

https://courses.vedantapeetam.org/invitation-for-annual-sloka-recital-2024

Stay tuned.

Invitation for Annual Sloka recital 2024

Dear families,

Countdown Begins. 2 days to celebrate the Big event.

Vedanta Vidya Peetam believes that the real goal of child centric development can be achieved only through a collective participation of all the stakeholders. The participation of the parents in all activities of our Vedanta Vidya Peetam is highly encouraged. It includes volunteering of the events, ensuring their children's Regular attendance & Adhere to timings.

We thank and appreciate our parents. Please feel free to forward the invitation link to your friends.

Invitation for Annual Sloka recital 2024

Dear Families,

Just 3 days to go !

Present society has two streams of education. One of them primarily focuses on socio-economic needs while the other on philosophical and cultural aspects of life. These two exist in isolation today. But our lives need both. We at Vedanta Vidya Peetam focuses on bringing the philosophical needs of our life to an extent in the form of Slokas, Art and culture.

There have been many more people in the past and modern times, who inspire us. Our little kids have learnt the slokas for one year and going to do the recital in this grand event. Please join us to motivate and encourage our young generation who are going to be the future leaders.

Kindly *RSVP* for our Vedanta Peetam Annual Day
Event.

RSVP for Sloka Recital 2024 RSVP for Vedanta Peetam Annual Recital Program 2023

Dear Families,

4 days to go for our Annual Carnival! Are you all ready?

To pursue our motive to bridge the gap between wisdom and modern advancements, we are continuing to teach with a motto of Social Good with spiritual wisdom .
Small actions * Lots of people = Big Change.

Join us to the event and get the positive vibes. Feel free to spread a word with your friends and bring them to the event.

Continue to RSVPing online.

RSVP for Sloka Recital 2024 RSVP for Vedanta Peetam Annual Recital Program 2023

Dear Families,

Count down begins- 5 days to go !

It’s almost an Year , our children are learning Slokas, Stories and many more valuable information. The importance of this event is that it works as a social bonding, augments and informally catalyze our children to learn and participate more.

So Please do share among your friends. Continue RSVPing online.

RSVP for Sloka Recital 2024 RSVP for Vedanta Peetam Annual Recital Program 2023

Dear Families,

We are very excited to invite you all with your families and friends for our upcoming 15th year Annual Recital Event.

We can't wait to see you all !

Ever since established in 2009, Vedanta Vidya Peetam provides fun filled strategies that present Vedic Culture to children. Through the medium of music, drama, debates, quizzes and games, children will now be able to study the ancient wisdom of the Slokas.

In the 15th year of this Annual Day, we are going to celebrate the achievements and talents of students with rousing recitals, accolades, medals, and dinner. Please join us in this celebration, encouraging our children to learn more and value the power of education.

ALL ARE INVITED . Share the event with your friends (even if they are not part of our sloka class)

Kindly RSVP for our Vedanta Peetam Annual Day Event.

https://forms.gle/gsG3T8JEvzZio9bGA

🌈✨ Unlock the Treasure Trove of Indian Ancient Wisdom with Vedanta Peetam’s Kids Gnyaan Story Session! ✨🌈

Dear Parents,

In today’s busy world, it’s hard to hold onto our good old values. But what if you could give your child a beautiful gift? A gift of wisdom that comes from the amazing stories of Indian mythology and epics. We at Vedanta Peetam are excited to welcome your kids, aged 4-12, to join us for a special adventure. With our Gnyaan Sessions, they’ll get to explore the exciting worlds of the Ramayana and Mahabharata like never before. 📚💫

Why join us on this adventure?

🎨 Interactive Storytelling: Watch your child's eyes light up with wonder as they dive into stories that teach, entertain, and inspire.
🌟 Moral Foundations: Cultivate virtues of bravery, honesty, and kindness as they learn from the lives of legendary heroes and heroines.
🍃 Cultural Roots: Connect them with their heritage, creating a sense of belonging and identity through our rich traditions.
🌺 Creative Play: Beyond stories, they'll engage in activities that bring lessons to life, ensuring a deeper understanding and lasting impact.
👫 Community Spirit: They'll grow alongside peers, building friendships that celebrate our culture and shared values.
👉 Start Date: March 30, 2024 | Time: 10:30 AM | Venue: Vedanta Peetam

This is more than just a class; it's a gateway for your children to develop character, empathy, and a nuanced understanding of right and wrong in the most joyful way imaginable. Let's give them the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence through the stories our ancestors left for us.

💖 Make the Wise Choice! Spots are filling fast as we aim for a close-knit, impactful session. Click below to register or learn more. Give your child the unmatched gift of moral clarity and cultural pride.

👇 Sign Up Here
https://courses.vedantapeetam.org/f/kids-gnyaan

Let's raise a generation that’s wise, kind, and connected to their incredible heritage. Share this with families who dream the same for their little ones!

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What can we learn about parenting from Sri Ramayana?

Once, the sage Vishwamitra visited King Dasharatha's court with a request. He needed the help of Rama, the king's eldest son, to protect his sacred rituals from being desecrated by demons. Initially hesitant to send his young son into a potentially dangerous situation, Dasharatha was persuaded by Vishwamitra's assurance that Rama would not only be safe but would also greatly benefit from the experience. Reluctantly, Dasharatha consented, placing his trust in the sage's wisdom.

Rama, along with his brother Lakshmana, ventured into the forest under Vishwamitra's tutelage. This journey was not merely a mission to protect the sacred rites; it was an educational odyssey for the two princes. Vishwamitra imparted to them knowledge of sacred scriptures, martial arts, and the use of divine weapons. More importantly, through the challenges they faced, Rama and Lakshmana learned the virtues of courage, discipline, and the responsibility that comes with power.

What makes this story particularly relevant to parenting is the manner in which Vishwamitra educates Rama and Lakshmana. The sage does not force knowledge upon them, nor does he scare them into learning. Instead, he creates an environment where learning is a natural outcome of their adventures. The freedom to explore, make mistakes, and discover their own strengths allows the princes to grow into capable and wise leaders.

This story exemplifies a vital principle for parents: the importance of guiding children with a gentle hand, allowing them the freedom to explore their world and discover their own paths. By providing support and wisdom like Sage Vishwamitra, parents can help their children learn valuable life lessons through their experiences, rather than through fear or coercion. This approach fosters independence, confidence, and a deep-seated understanding of their responsibilities towards themselves and others.

In yet another incident, as a young boy, Rama once visited the ashram (hermitage) of Sage Bharadwaja, accompanied by his father, King Dasharatha, and his brothers. During their stay, Rama observed the sage performing various rituals and tasks with great dedication and humility. Noticing that the sage walked barefoot over rough terrain daily, Rama, moved by compassion and understanding, offered his own sandals to the sage to protect his feet. This incident wasn’t a result of a direct instruction from his father or the sage but sprang from Rama's innate empathy and understanding—qualities that were nurtured in him through freedom to observe, learn, and act on his observations. This story illustrates the importance of allowing children to learn through empathy and firsthand experience, nurturing their intrinsic qualities without direct compulsion.

In another instance, King Dasharatha sends his sons to Sage Vasishta, not just for academic education or martial training, but for holistic development—learning about duty, morality, leadership, and the essence of Dharma (righteous living).

Sage Vasishta, understanding the unique potential within each prince, tailors his teachings to foster their individual strengths while instilling in them universal values of truth, compassion, and self-discipline. This educational journey is not confined to the four walls of a classroom; it includes exposure to nature, stories of valor and virtue, and lessons in governance and social welfare.

What's notable about this episode is the emphasis on holistic development. The sage provides the princes with the freedom to question, explore, and understand the world around them. This approach ensures that the lessons go beyond mere rote learning, allowing the princes to internalize these values deeply.

The story underscores the importance of recognizing and nurturing each child's unique potential. It suggests that education should not be a rigid imposition of facts but a liberating journey that encourages curiosity, moral integrity, and a deep-seated understanding of one's duties to oneself and society. This tale from the Ramayana serves as a timeless reminder for parents to cultivate an environment that supports holistic growth, encouraging children to explore their interests and learn from the world around them in a guided yet free manner.

Why did Raama kill Vaali from behind?

When Raama shot Vali, the following transpired between Vaali and Raama:

"As I lay here with your arrow in me, Lord Rama, I'm really confused and hurt. Why did you shoot me from behind when we weren't even enemies? You're known as the good guy, always doing the right thing. It just doesn't make sense to me."

Raama said, "Vali, your choices, like taking Sugriva's kingdom and wife, Ruma, really missed the mark on what's right and what's expected of a king. It's not about me being against you; it's about doing what's necessary to fix what's wrong based on the principles of dharma."

Vaali asked back,

"You know, the fight I had with my brother Sugriva was our problem, something we should have sorted out ourselves. It's like if you had a problem with your brother and someone else decided to step in without asking; it just doesn't seem fair. Why did you think it was okay to jump into our fight like that, and in such a sneaky way too?"

Raama replied, "Being a Kshatriya and also an avatar of Vishnu, I've got a role to play in keeping things just and right. When someone in charge, like a king, starts acting unfairly, it's up to me to step in, especially when someone's been wronged and they ask for help, which is what happened with Sugriva."

Vaali asked back,

"Fine but, we're both warriors, right? If we were going to fight, shouldn't you have challenged me to my face? That would have been the brave thing to do. But you got me when I wasn't looking, which doesn't really match up with being honorable and brave, does it?"

Raama replied, "The usual rules of fighting don't exactly fit our situation right now. You are an animal and I am a human and so the rules of combat don't apply. Animals are hunted by humans and never challenged in a combat. And so I hunted you down."

Vaali further asked,
"And what about your reputation? People look up to you because you always stick to the rules and do what's right. But this... this seems like something that would make people think less of you. It doesn't fit with the Lord Rama everyone talks about."

Raama replied, "What I did was about setting things right, getting Sugriva back in charge as he should be, and making sure peace and fairness are restored."

Vaali finally asked,

"Lastly, I'm really worried about my wife, Tara, and my son, Angada. How could you, knowing how tough it is to be away from the ones you love, cause such sadness for my family? It's just like how you're away from your home because you care about your family's promise. My family is going to be so sad without me, just like how sad you'd be."

Raama replied to Vaali,

"Vali, I hear your concerns about Tara and Angada, and I want you to know that they will not be neglected or suffer because of what has transpired between us. Despite the actions I've taken today, my respect for life and duty extends to your family. I promise you, Tara and Angada will be treated with the utmost care and respect."

"I understand the anguish of being separated from loved ones all too well. It is not my intention to cause unnecessary sorrow to your family. I will personally ensure that Sugriva knows it is his duty to look after Tara and Angada, ensuring they live with dignity and without want."

"This decision wasn't easy, but it was made in the pursuit of dharma, of restoring balance and righteousness. My actions today are not out of malice towards you or your family but out of a necessity dictated by duty. Your family's well-being will be safeguarded, Vali. This I promise you."

---

Duryodana, a prince with a lot of pride, once decided to invite Krishna to a grand feast at his palace, thinking it would convince Krishna to support his side in the big war that was coming. Krishna, known for his kindness and cleverness, decided to accept the invitation, but not for the reasons Duryodana hoped.

When Krishna arrived, instead of heading straight to the palace, he went to the humble home of Vidura, Duryodana's uncle, who was known for his wisdom and good heart. Vidura was not rich or powerful, but he was a true friend to Krishna.

Vidura and his wife were overjoyed to have Krishna in their home. They didn't have fancy dishes or expensive decorations, but they offered Krishna the best they had with all their heart. They served him simple food with such love and respect that Krishna was deeply touched and happily ate their modest offerings.

Meanwhile, Duryodana was waiting at his lavish palace, growing angrier by the minute. When he learned that Krishna had chosen to eat at Vidura's simple home instead of enjoying the grand feast prepared for him, he was furious and insulted. But Krishna explained that he valued the purity of heart and genuine affection over wealth and grandeur. He showed that true hospitality and friendship come from the heart, not from how much money or power one has.

This story teaches us that kindness, humility, and genuine love are far more valuable than all the riches in the world. Lord Krishna, with his actions, showed us that being rich in heart is what truly matters.

One warm afternoon, when the sun was setting and making the village look golden, Krishna and his friends decided to go on an adventure. They went deep into the forest, filled with the sounds of nature and birds singing. There, they found a hidden clearing with an old well that was said to have magical water.

There was a story that a magical creature protected the well and its secrets. Only good people could meet this creature. Curious and brave, Krishna went up to the well while his friends waited a bit away. As soon as he touched the well, the air around him changed, and the creature appeared. It was made of light and shadow and looked wise.

The creature explained that the well could grant one wish if the person's heart was pure. Krishna thought about it and instead of wishing for something for himself, he wished for the well to always give water to Vrindavan, so no one, human or animal, would ever be thirsty.

The creature was so impressed by Krishna's kindness that it made his wish come true. From then on, the well gave endless water, helping everyone in the area.

This story about Krishna and the magical well shows how important it is to think of others and take care of our world. It reminds us that being brave means thinking about more than just ourselves. This is a good lesson for everyone, especially for someone in eighth grade getting ready to learn more about life.

One day, as Krishna wandered through the village, he stumbled upon a group of sages performing a solemn ritual. They were preparing a grand feast in honor of the gods, hoping to earn their favor for prosperity and wellbeing. Curious, Krishna approached them with a simple question that puzzled the wise men, "Who truly enjoys the fruits of such offerings? The gods you cannot see, or the beings around you?"

The sages, taken aback by the depth of this inquiry coming from a mere child, brushed him aside, focusing on their elaborate preparations. Undeterred, Krishna decided to illustrate the answer through his actions rather than words.

That night, with the help of his friends, he silently distributed the feast prepared for the gods among the poor and hungry animals of the forest. When the sages discovered their offerings missing the next morning, they were initially outraged. However, upon seeing the joy and satisfaction on the faces of the animals, they realized the essence of Krishna's earlier question.

Confronted by Krishna again, they found themselves at a loss for words. Krishna, with a gentle smile, explained, "Service to the living is the highest form of worship. The gods are pleased not by the lavishness of your offerings but by the purity of your heart and your compassion towards all beings."

This story, though not as celebrated as others, carries a profound message. It reminds us that true devotion is expressed through acts of kindness and generosity, transcending rituals and reaching directly to the hearts of those in need. In his playful yet wise manner, Krishna taught the villagers of Vrindavan that divinity resides in every act of love and service.

Krishna, feeling mischievous and wanting to play with his friends, the cowherd boys, suggested a game of hide and seek in the lush forests of Vrindavan. The boys were thrilled, and Krishna volunteered to be "it" first, closing his eyes and counting while everyone else hid.

As the perfect playmate, Krishna used his divine powers to find his friends quickly, no matter how cleverly they hid. But when it was Krishna's turn to hide, he decided to play a divine prank. Krishna did not just hide in the traditional sense; he multiplied his form, hiding as himself in the heart of every living being in Vrindavan. When his friends finished counting and started seeking, they were astonished and bewildered to find Krishna everywhere they looked. Every leaf, tree, and creature seemed to have Krishna's smiling face.

The cowherd boys were confused at first, seeing Krishna in every direction they turned, but soon, they realized the extent of their friend's divine playfulness. This episode didn't just entertain them; it taught them an invaluable lesson about the omnipresence of the divine.

A new mind power course is starting for 10+ years as a pilot. Please register at the following link.

https://courses.vedantapeetam.org/courses/practical-spirituality-for-youth