During the Month of May 2014, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, USA (HSS) honored teachers across the US, during month long events of Guru Vandana. Each year, US celebrates first week of May as “teachers appreciation week” and Tuesday of the same week as “National Teachers Day”. Hindu philosophy and culture considers Guru as “Supreme Being” who invokes and sustains light of knowledge while eliminating the darkness of ignorance. Our lives are touched and inspired by countless teachers in schools, colleges and many other activities that we participate and excel in. To acknowledge and appreciate these Gurus who silently shape our lives, HSS volunteers across the nation held Guru Vandana during their weekend activities in the Month of May and at some places in June.
In typical event, the children presented a cultural program where Sanskrit sholkas were recited in the honor of the Guru. The shlokas focused on the significance of the Guru, comparing the Guru to the God, and pointing out the Guru’s role in achieving the supreme knowledge. Local chief guest shared his or her thoughts with audience, followed by appreciation of teachers with flowers and memento.
Total 38 places in and around Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Chicago, Wisconsin,Ohio, Downstate Illinois,Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,, New Hampshire, Washington DC, San Francisco/Bay area, Los Angeles, Washington State, Tennessee, Orlando, and Raleigh NC celebrated Guru Vandana. 475 teachers from local schools as well as from dance other classes honored by their students in presence of over 2550 attendees. Teachers, administrators and local officials appreciated this concept and this event. Following are some of the comments from these events:
“You rekindled my interest in math and I truly enjoy learning from you,” said seventh grader Nishanth Manoj in a formal tone to his math teacher Jennifer Byrd from Germantown Middle School.
“It was wonderful! I learned a lot and felt very appreciated! I haven't received a trophy in years!! They spoke of a program for teachers that they may be doing in September. If they have it, will you please let me know? Thank you! “
“Thank you! It was an honor and privilege to be invited to such a beautiful event.
Thank you. I enjoyed it as well and was honored to be invited to the ceremony.
HSS encourages temples and other Hindu organizations for similar program to make teachers & students aware of importance of Guru (Teachers) and unique way to appreciate that tradition.
