BY DEVIKA MEHTA
NORWALK,CA-The Southern California chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh celebrated a special Raksha Bandhan event with US elected officials and community leaders at the Sanatan Dharma Temple here on Sept 23. The gathering saw the involvement of key dignitaries including US Congressman Ed Royce,
NORWALK,CA-The Southern California chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh celebrated a special Raksha Bandhan event with US elected officials and community leaders at the Sanatan Dharma Temple here on Sept 23. The gathering saw the involvement of key dignitaries including US Congressman Ed Royce,
Swami Ishwarananda, senior acharya of Chinmaya Mission Los Angeles and participation of representatives of over 10 Hindu organizations from the SoCal area.
The program commenced with HSS-SoCal member Pravin Tanwar explaining the relevance of Raksha Bandhan in today’s turbulent times.“Hindus traditionally observe Raksha Bandhana as a holiday reaffirming the relationship between sisters and brothers. HSS too believe in the notion of ‘Universal Oneness Day’ thus broadening its scope from the family to the community with the simple idea that we should all love and protect each other.”
In the same spirit, Chief Guest Ed Royce addressed the gathering about his strong ‘peaceful’ ties with the Indian-American community and shared his experience of his visit to Bhuj, Gujarat in 2001, after the devastating earthquake. He also appreciated HSS-USA’s relief efforts in Houston, following Hurricane Harvey and commended their spirit of service in this country.
Swami Ishwarananda shared the importance of various duties as per Dharma. He elaborated with scriptural references why Hindus have been celebrating Raksha Bandhan from ancient times and emphasized the need to protect each other with the bond of Rakhi for universal peace and brotherhood. Sabitha Hebbar, executive secretary of HSS SoCal, detailed the organization’s activities which included Surya Namaskar Yogathon and teachers appreciation programs.
Hebbar also talked about Hurricane Harvey efforts where more than 800 volunteers have been involved through SEWA, physically rescuing and helping victims. Showing her concern about unfair portrayal of Hinduism in CA text books, Hebbar assured, “Efforts have been going on for past 10 years through community involvement and engaging public officials to improve the content in CA text books.” HSS SoCal President Babubhai Gandhi guided the audience to begin the Rakhi ceremony after sacred chanting.
Secretary of Artesia chapter Dr. Amit Desai delivered the vote of thanks. Also present was HSS USA national President Dr. Vinod Ambastha. A lunch was later served to nearly 70 attendees.
The program commenced with HSS-SoCal member Pravin Tanwar explaining the relevance of Raksha Bandhan in today’s turbulent times.“Hindus traditionally observe Raksha Bandhana as a holiday reaffirming the relationship between sisters and brothers. HSS too believe in the notion of ‘Universal Oneness Day’ thus broadening its scope from the family to the community with the simple idea that we should all love and protect each other.”
In the same spirit, Chief Guest Ed Royce addressed the gathering about his strong ‘peaceful’ ties with the Indian-American community and shared his experience of his visit to Bhuj, Gujarat in 2001, after the devastating earthquake. He also appreciated HSS-USA’s relief efforts in Houston, following Hurricane Harvey and commended their spirit of service in this country.
Swami Ishwarananda shared the importance of various duties as per Dharma. He elaborated with scriptural references why Hindus have been celebrating Raksha Bandhan from ancient times and emphasized the need to protect each other with the bond of Rakhi for universal peace and brotherhood. Sabitha Hebbar, executive secretary of HSS SoCal, detailed the organization’s activities which included Surya Namaskar Yogathon and teachers appreciation programs.
Hebbar also talked about Hurricane Harvey efforts where more than 800 volunteers have been involved through SEWA, physically rescuing and helping victims. Showing her concern about unfair portrayal of Hinduism in CA text books, Hebbar assured, “Efforts have been going on for past 10 years through community involvement and engaging public officials to improve the content in CA text books.” HSS SoCal President Babubhai Gandhi guided the audience to begin the Rakhi ceremony after sacred chanting.
Secretary of Artesia chapter Dr. Amit Desai delivered the vote of thanks. Also present was HSS USA national President Dr. Vinod Ambastha. A lunch was later served to nearly 70 attendees.
RSS Feed
