On April 23rd 2023, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) celebrated Guru Vandana at the local community center . Guru in Sanskrit means the teacher,mentor or coach (Gu-darkness Ru-remover). Guru means the master, who, with his knowledge, opens the eyes of the students who are blinded by darkness of ignorance. A guru’s duty is to help students gain knowledge and make the best decisions and choices that are good for them. As a practicing hindu, I was always told to pay respect and honor to teachers. This value is known as a very old tradition all Hindus must follow. As we have teacher appreciation week, HSS decided to organize an event called ‘ Guru Vandana’ to felicitate the teachers. HSS invited teachers to honor the hard work they have set towards students for years. About 22 teachers, including principals from different schools in Milwaukee, attended the event. At this event, students performed several activities such as plays on ancient mythological stories that portrayed having faith in the guru, a special Indian dance called bharatnatyam, musical performances, prayers and chants to their guru. My favorite part was the henna booth, where a few people were applying henna tattoos, the sari booth, where my mom and a few others gave teachers a south asian style makeover and allowed them to wear different types of beautiful woven fabrics and designs followed by delicious food to reflect Hindu heritage. The displayed posters informed the attendees on the rich Hindu civilization and how it has stood the tests of time. It was a great learning experience to perform as Guru Vishwamitra in a play.
As a youth volunteer at HSS, I hope to move forward with the team to promote activities that improve my leadership skills. I am proud to be a part of the team that believes in kindness, gratitude and respect. I am grateful that I have my mentors, teachers and coaches who have taught me so much I never knew.