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Balagokulam
Syllabus
April - June
Age Group : 9 to 12
Gokulam is the place where Lord Krishnas magical days

of childhood were spent. It was here that his divine
powers came to light.
Every child has that spark of divinity within. BalaGokulam is a forum for children to discover and
manifest that divinity. It will enable Hindu children in
US to appreciate their cultural roots and learn Hindu
values in an enjoyable manner. This is done through
weekly gatherings and planned activities which include
games, yoga, stories, shlokas, bhajan, arts and crafts
and much more......
Balagokulam is a program of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)
Table of Contents
April
Shloka / Subhashitam / Amrutvachan ....................................5
Geet ........................................................................................6
Yugadi ....................................................................................7
Stories of Dr. Hedgewar .......................................................10
The Hindu Calendar .............................................................13
Exercise ................................................................................16
Project / Workshop - Art of Story Telling ............................19
May
Shloka / Subhashitam / Amrutvachan ..................................20
Geet ......................................................................................21
Symbols in Hinduism ...........................................................22
The Life of Buddha ..............................................................26
Meaning of Sangh Prarthana ................................................28
Exercise ................................................................................32
Project / Competition - Competition of Story Telling ..........35
June
Shloka / Subhashitam / Amrutvachan ..................................36
Geet ......................................................................................37
Vandaneeya Mausiji .............................................................38
Introduction of Hindu Scriptures .........................................40
Raja Shivaji ..........................................................................44
Exercise ................................................................................48
Project / Skit .........................................................................50
April
Shloka
Shloka
mnaejv< mat tuLyvegm!,

ijteiNy< buimta< virm!.
vataTmj< vanryUwmuOym!,
Iramt< izrsa nmaim.
hnUman (hanmn)
manojava mruta tulyavegam |
jitendriya buddhimat variham ||
vttmaja vnara-ythamukhyam |
rrma-dta iras nammi ||
I take refuge in Hanuman who is as fast as the mind, equals his father, Maruta, in speed, is
the master of the senses, the foremost amongst the learned, the leader of the Vaanara forces
and the great messenger of Shri Rama.
Subhashitam
AyaM inaja: prao vaoit gaNanaa laGaucaotsaama\ |

]darcairtanaaM tu vasauQaooOva kuTumbakma\ ||
Consideration like he is mine or he is anothers occur only to the narrow minded
persons. To the broad-minded persons the whole world is a family.
Amrutvachan
To succeed, you must have tremendous perseverance,
tremendous will. I will drink the ocean, says the persevering
soul; at my will mountains will crumble up. Have that sort
of energy, that sort of will; work hard, and you will reach the
goal.
- Swami Vivekananda
April
Geet
clae -?a$ clae (Chalo bhai chalo)
clae -?a$ clae zaoa me clae , waefI der Ab tum sb kam -Ulae
clae -a$ clae s<g s<g clae , Aaj ke idn jra hsae AaEr oelae.
ram k:[ ke varIs hm, gvR se khte ih< hm
-gva Xvj hE pUJy prm , vNdn %se krae s<g s<g clae.
sIta ka mat&Tv hme, zaEyR lim ka hE tn me
maEsIjI kI Aan hme , Aage bFae AaEr s<g s<g clae.

Daeqe Daeqe be hm, kam bfa kre<ge hm
xrm kI r]a kre<ge hm, khe<ge vNde matrm.

zaoa me hE Real Fun, kbI oae oae me rmta mn
krae yaeg -Ulae gm, kdm imla Aae s<g s<g clae.
Chalo bhai chalo Shaakha me chalo, Thodi der ab tum sab kaam bhulo
Chalo bhai chalo sang sang chalo, Aj ke din zaraa haso aur khelo ||
Raam Krishna ke vaaris ham, Garv se kahate hindu hai ham
Bhagvaa dhwaj hai pujya param, Vandan use karo sang sang chalo ||
Jijaa kaa maatritva hame, Shaurya lakshmi kaa hai tan me
Mausiji ki aan hame, Aage bado aur sang sang chalo ||
Chote chote bachche ham, Kaam badaa karenge ham
Dharam ki rakshaa karenge ham, Kahenge vande maataram ||
Shaakhaa me hai REAL FUN, Kabaddi kho kho me ramtaa man
Karo yoga bhulo gam, Kadam milao sang sang chalo ||
6
Festival
April
Yugadi (Varsha Pratipada)

Festivals are an integral part of our life and culture and Hindu tradition
offers them in plenty. There is a festival for every reason and for every
season. Every celebration centers around rituals of prayer, seeking blessings,
exchanging goodwill, decorating houses, wearing new clothes, music, dance
and feasting. Do you know the most important festival that falls in the month
of April? It is Yugadi!!
Yugadi is one of the most important festival among numerous festivals
that we celebrate. Yugadi means Beginning of New age (Yuga=Age and
Aadi=beginning). Hindu culture is diverse and hindu people speak many
languages. No wonder! this festival is recognized by various names and
celebrated in various ways and on different days. Some called it as Varsha
Pratipada, and some as Gudi Padva. Some called it as Naba Barsha and
some as Goru Bihu.
Ugadi comes close on the heels of festival Holi every year. While the
strong colors of Holi start fading away, the freshness of spring lingers on with
sprightliness all around. It is a spring festival when the Goddess of Nature gets
bedecked as a divine bride. This season has a characteristic fragrance in the
air; fully blossomed neem trees make the air healthy. We listen to chanting of
birds and smell fragrance of owers from distance. The onset of spring also
marks a beginning of new life with plants (barren until now) acquiring new
life, shoots and leaves. The vibrancy of life and verdant elds, meadows full of
colorful blossoms signies growth, prosperity and well-being.
The day of Yugadi is also a beginning of a new year according to the
Hindu Panchang. You may be puzzled and ask, What is Hindu Panchang?
Hindu Panchang is a Hindu Calendar. Just like English Calendar, Hindu
people also have their own calendar. They use it for the religious customs and
April
Festival
ceremonies. Since it is a start of new year, people launch many new projects,
start new ventures, open new ofces. They purchase jewelry, and gold on this
auspicious day.
Ways of celebrations
Hindu people celebrate this festival in various ways. Preparations for
the festival begin a week ahead. Houses are given a thorough wash. Shopping
for new clothes and buying other items that go with the requirements of the
festival are done with a lot of excitement. People wake up before the break
of dawn, apply coconut oil on their skin and take a bath after which they
decorate the entrance of their houses with fresh mango leaves and intricate
rangoli designs reecting the brightness of the spring. Wearing new clothes,
they offer Pooja for the God and seek his blessings before they start the day.
They pray for their health, wealth and prosperity and success in
business too. Some people celebrate this festival by hoisting a
gudi a bamboo pole with a rich and gorgeous cloth of magenta
or saffron color and a small branch of neem tree and garland. It
symbolizes Shree Ramas triumphant entry into Ayodhya and is
erected in homes as a mark of triumph of good over evil. It also
symbolizes the bra-Mha-dhwa-j (ag of the Creator).
Some nd a different way of celebrating the festival. Kavi Sammelanam
(poetry recitation) is quite famous in southern Bharat (India). Yugadi is
also a time when people look forward to a literary feast in the form of Kavi
Sammelanam. Many poets come up with new poems written on subjects
ranging from Yugadi to politics to modern trends and lifestyles.
As the day starts, they eat the paste of bitter-sweet leaves of Neem tree,
tamarind and jaggery. The neem paste is believed to purify blood and build up
immunity in the body against diseases. Special dishes such as pulihora (like
tamarind rice), bobbatlu (sweet rotis), Shrikhand (like sweet yoghurt) are
prepared for the occasion. Yugadi is thus a festival of many shades. It ushers
in the new year, brings a rich bounce of ora and lls the hearts of people
with joy and contentment.
April
Festival
Mythological and Historical Importance
It is believed that, on this day, the Universe was created by Lord Brahma.
This is the day when Lord Vishnu incarnated himself as Matsya (the Fish
Incarnation). On this day, Shri Rama killed Vali. On this day, Shri Rama
returned to Ayodhya after the victory over the demon Ravana. The great
Indian Mathematician Bhaskaracharyas calculations proclaimed the Yugadi
day from the sunrise on as the beginning of the New Year, new month and
new day. This day recalls the inspiring occasion when the kings Shalivahana
and Vikramaditya defeated the barbaric forces of Shakas who came from
Central Asia and invaded Bharat (India) during the 1st century A.D. The
founding of new Eras in the names of Vikrama and Shalivahana signies
the supreme importance accorded to them in the Hindu history. And what
a happy coincidence!! A great patriot, revolutionary and the founder of the
organization - Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) , Dr. Keshav Baliram
Hedgewar was also born on this day of Yugadi.
Spiritual Signicance
All the major Hindu festivals have their own purpose and signicance,
i.e., to show their relevance and importance in the context of the eternal world
cycle of history. As mentioned earlier, people eat the paste of bitter-sweet
leaves of Neem tree, tamarind and jaggery. Apart from its medicinal value the
eating of this mixture has an inner signicance. Jaggery represents joy and
happiness and Neem represents sorrow. Mixture of them indicate that life
is a mixture of good and bad, joy and sorrow, success and disappointment,
and all of them have to be treated alike. Every one should resolve to face
calmly whatever happens in this year, accepting it with good grace. Consider
everything is for ones own good. Men should rise above sorrow and happiness,
success and failure. Jaggery represents Krutayuga and Tretayuga which is full
of purity, prosperity and peace. Neem represents Dwaparyuga and Kaliyuga
which consists of sorrow, chaos and impurity. So, it is the time to change
ourselves or to purify ourselves by inculcating the divine virtues.
April
Sangh
Stories of Dr. Hedgewar

More than 100 years ago, Bharat (India) was under British rule. On 22nd
June of 1897, Queen Victoria of England completed 60 years of her ascent
to the British throne. Naturally the British Government had arranged grand
functions in all villages, towns and cities of Bharat. Especially in schools, they
distributed sweets among the children and children were happily enjoyed
them. But amidst all this, one young boy was not happy. He threw away the
sweets given to him, and sat alone in a corner brooding.
His elder brother came and asked him, Why are you downcast? Didnt
you get the sweets? Whats there in that sweet? - the boy pointed to the
sweets thrown away by him and added, But why should we celebrate the
jubilee of the Queen who has snatched away our countrys freedom?
The sweets, which were sweet to others, were bitter for this boy. He
was barely eight at that time. Even at such a tender age, he was so patriotic.
His name was Keshav! The boy was eventually to become famous as Dr.
Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. He spent all his life in awakening self-respect and
patriotism among the Hindus. Following passage describes few incidents of
Keshavs life.
This incident indicates the leadership qualities of Keshav and how
the idealism and unity that Keshav had inspired into his fellow students
that no threats could unsettle their resolve. One day, another great patriot,
Lokmanya Shri Tilak was sentenced to undergo 6 years of imprisonment for
participating and leading the Freedom Movement of Bharat. This happened
when Keshav was a student of Neil city High school at Nagpur. The principal
had sternly warned the students from even uttering Vande Mataram [I
bow to the Mother (land)] on the high school premises, and especially when
British school inspectors were visiting. Taking this as an indirect blessing,
10
April
Sangh
Keshav organized the protest against Shri Tilaks arrest by shouting Vande
Mataram. Accordingly, as soon as the British inspector entered the school,
the whole premises resounded with Vande Mataram, shouted by the
students. The British inspector was angered and humiliated. Such kind of
activism was banned in those days. Knowing fully well who had organized
this, the principal and the staff members tried their best to persuade, cajole
and threaten Keshavs fellow students to testify against Keshav. No one came
forward and no one confessed. Angrily, the principal ordered the school to
be shut down, threatening the students with the loss of their academic year.
Finally, concerned parents negotiated a solution. Keshav was debarred from
the school and the school was re-started. The Principal spoke highly of Keshav
even after many years!
This incident goes back to the year 1932. Keshav was in his middle
age. He was a doctor and people affectionately called him as Doctorji. One
day, Some Muslim fanatics rioted and beat up some Sangh Swayamsevaks
(sangh attendees) in Nagpur city. The news came as a shock to Doctorji who
was then in Wardha city. He immediately returned to Nagpur and began to
walk towards the injured Swayamsevaks homes. His path would have taken
him through the worst of the rioting areas. His close friends warned him
against going. When he did not listen, they implored him to take at least a
Lathi (Stout Stick) with him for self-defense. Upon this, he said: How can
such an inanimate stick protect me? Let me see who dares to come forward to
attack me! Then he set forth, walking and went through the rioting areas.
He reached the swayamsevaks homes and arranged for their medical care.
He then returned, walking again through the so called dangerous areas.
Who could have dared to cross paths with such a Lion-like man of courage?
Doctorji was not only courageous but also brave and determined and without
thinking a bit about himself, he took care of his swayamsevaks.
On a Saturday evening, Doctorji and his associates went to their another
friends (Shri. Shankar Rao Bharat) house at Adegaon vilage to attend some
important ceremony. On the next day morning, back in the Nagpur, a Sangh
Parade was scheduled. In the evening, after attending the ceremony, Doctorji
decided to return to Nagpur because he wanted to attend the Sangh Parade.
He asked his companions, Now that the ceremony is over, let us go back to
Nagpur. His companions replied, Doctorji, we can not go back today because
11
April
Sangh
there is no transporation. We will have to wait until tomorrow morning. Doctorji

said, Well! if there is no transporation, we can walk!!. Again his copanions
questioned, Nagpur is 32 miles away from this place. How can we walk?.
But Doctorji made it a point and his companions could not convince him.
They began to walk towards the highway which was 10 miles away from that
remote village. While walking in a pitch black night, stumbling on stones,
rocks and dense overgrowth, accidently Doctorjee stepped on a sharp, needleshaped wood fork that lodged itself deep inside his foot, causing intense pain.
Steeling himself against it with iron determination, he kept going with his
companions and somehow they made to the highway after midnight.
Without taking a rest, they kept walking along the highway towards
Nagpur, which was still 22 miles away. After walking a few miles, a late
night bus going towards Nagpur came by, and the driver, being from Nagpur,
immediately stopped the bus, when he recognized the limping Doctorjee in his
headlight. He implored Doctorjee to come on board along since the bus was
extremely over crowded. Doctorjee politely refused to board the bus also. He
said : I will come only if all of us in the group are allowed to come on board. In
spite of his swollen, bleeding foot, intense pain and exhaustion, Doctorjee did
not forsake his companions, even when they wanted him to go. Finally, the
driver allowed the whole group to come aboard. Since there really was no room,
some sat on the bus engine, while some others sat on its roof. Somehow they
made it to Nagpur in the early morning and attended the Sangh Parade.
These incidents indicate that Doctorji (Keshav) was a man of virtue.
He possessed great qualities. He was a great patriot, revolutionary and true
leader. He was determined and condent. He was strong in mind, and in body
as well. He was popular among the people. Despite all these, he never posed
himself as a great person. On the contrary, he shunned publicity. His life
was simple and austere. To inculcate awareness and self-respect among the
Hindu people and to organize them, he founded an organization - Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) popularly known as Sangh. He sacriced his entire
life to increase the sangh work. On the morning of 21st June 1940, at the age
of 51, Doctorji breathed his last. His life is always going to inspire us.
12
April
Hindu Dharma
The Hindu Calendar (Panchang)

The Calendar (Panchang or Kalaganana) is a system of timekeeping that
denes the beginning, length and divisions of the year. In other words, it is
a table showing the beginning and length of the years, months, weeks, and
days. Though the time is immeasurable, efforts were made to measure time
and design a perfect calendar in different parts of world. Most of the calendars
are inuenced by the motion of Sun, Moon and other planets.
The Hindus, Our seers (rishis), also have had a comprehensive study
of time. They had a correct knowledge of the motion of planets and their
paths. They developed the necessary tools like Mathematics and calculated
the time with utmost accuracy. The minute details covered by those fantastic
minds in reckoning time is outstanding. The calendars designed by them are
lunar calendars, based on the natural cycles of the moon. They are practical
to use because they follow the phases of the moon which can be visually
be seen. Those calendars are widely being used for the religious customs
and ceremonies. Following passage explains few characteristics of the Hindu
Calendar.
Diwas or Din (Day)

According to the Hindu Calendar, the smallest unit of time is called
Nimesha, the duration taken to bat an eyelid, which is equal to 0.1778 seconds.
One day including night is a practical unit of time. Following chart describes
different units of time and their equivalent seconds or minutes.
1 Nimesha
Smallest Unit
0.1778 seconds
1 Kashta
18 Nimeshas
3.2 seconds
1 Kala
30 Kashtas
96 seconds
1 Muhurta
30 Kalas
48 minutes
2 Ghatikas
1 Muhurta
48 minutes
1 Diwas (Day)
60 Ghatikas
24 hours
13
April
Hindu Dharma
Saptah (week)
7 diwas (days) make 1 saptah (week). Each day is named after a planet. The
moon, though a satellite of the earth, is also included. They are as follows.
Name of Diwas (Planet)
Name of Day (Planet)
Ravivar (Ravi)
Sunday (Sun)
Somvar (Moon)
Monday (Moon)
Mangalvar (Mangala)
Tuesday (Mars)
Budhvar (Budha)
Wednesday (Mercury)
Guruvar (Guru)
Thursday (Jupiter)
Shukravar (Shukra)
Friday (Venus)
Shanivar (Shani)
Saturday (Saturn)
Mas (Month)
Mas, which is derived from the word Chandrama (the moon), is equivalent
to the month. There are 12 months in a year. Each month has two halves Shukla Paksha (brighter half) and Krishna Paksha (darker half). These 12
months make up the six seasons (Ritu). Following table describes the months
and seasons of the Hindu Calendar and their corresponding months of the
English Calendar.
14
1)
Months of the
Hindu Calendar
Chaitra
Months of the
English Calendar
Mar / April
Vasanta (Spring)
2)
Vaishaakha
April / May
Vasanta (Spring)
3)
Jyeshtha
May / June
Greeshma (Summer)
4)
Aashaadha
June / July
Greeshma (Summer)
5)
Sraavana
July / August
Varsha (Rainy)
6)
Bhaadrapada
August / September
Varsha (Rainy)
7)
Ashwin
September / October
Sharad (Autumn)
8)
Kaartika
October / November
Sharad (Autumn)
Seasons
April
Hindu Dharma
9)
Maargashirsha
November / December
Hemanta (Winter)
10)
Pushya
December / January
Hemanta (Winter)
11)
Maagha
January / February
Shishira (Winter)
12)
Phaalguna
February / March
Shishira (Winter)
Varsha (Year)
12 Mas make one varsha (year). Varsha is the time taken by the earth to
go round the Sun once.
Eras
Just as there is the Christian Era in which the years are supposed to be
counted from the birth of Jesus Christ, Hindus have their own Eras. They are
many in numbers. The most important names are :
1)
Yugabda: The Yugabda tells us what year is passing after the
commencement of Kaliyuga.
2)
Shalivahana Shaka: The Shalivahana Shaka was started in commemoration
of Samrat (King) Shalivahana. It is based on lunar calendar and the new year
starts with Chaitra Mas.
3)
Vikram Samvat: The Vikram Era started with Samrat (King) Vikramaditya
of Ujjain, following his victory over the Saka in 56 B.C. It is also based on the
lunar calendar and the new year begins with the 4th day of Deepavali.
Note that there are numerous features of the Hindu Calendar which
are out of this curriculum and not mentioned here. Those who are more
interested can always get more information from other sources such as books
or internet.
15
April
Exercise
-: Exercise :Match the Pairs

1) Yugadi
1) Month
2) Keshav
2) Week
3) Saptah
3) Shalivahana-Shaka
4) Mas
4) Day of the Saptah
5) Shanivar
5) Hindu Calendar
6) Panchang
6) Beginning of New Age
7) Era
7) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)
Fill up the blanks

1)
Yugadi is also called as _______________.

a) Deepavali
2)
b) Mas
c) Varsha
d) Era
One nimesha is ___________ seconds.

a) 2 seconds
4)
d) None of these.
Kaartika is the name of ____________.

a) Saptah
3)
b) Gudi-Padwa c) Samkranti
b) 0.67 seconds c) 0.1778 seconds
Doctorji died on ______________ (this day).

a) 01-JAN-1989 b) 20-FEB-1967 c) 21-JUN-1940
5)
d) 5 seconds
d) 21-JUN-1950
___________ and ___________ are two halves of the Mas (Month).

a) Shukla Paksha b) Chaitra c) Krishna Paksha d) Ashwin
6)
Swayamsevaks are Sangha _______________.

a) believers
7)
c) sympathisers
d) None of these
___________ is one of the 7 days of the Saptah.

a) Shanivar
16
b) attendees
b) Chaitra
c) Ashwin
d) Magha
April
Exercise
Questions
1)
What is the meaning of Vande Mataram?

______________________________________________________
2)
List any 4 months of the Hindu Calendar.

______________________________________________________
3)
Describe the story of Keshav (Doctorji) that happened in the school.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
4)
List three most popular eras that Hindus have.

______________________________________________________
5)
List any two events that happened on Yugadi.

1) Lord Brahma created Universe.
2)
6)
Write rst two lines of the Shloka.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
7)
Write any two lines of the Geet

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
17
April
Exercise
Questions for Research

(Note that answers to these questions may not be found in this curriculam. It
is expected that you get those answers from other sources such as Parents,
Books or Internet)
1)
What is the most important festival other than Yugadi that falls
in the month of April? Describe its importance.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2)
What is meant by aadhik mas in the Hindu Calendar?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3)
What is meant by Yuga in the Hindu Calendar? What are they?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3)
Where and when did Keshav (Doctorji) born?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
4)
On what day Doctorji started RSS?

________________________________________________________________
18
Workshop
April
Art of Story Telling

(Few points are given below. Shikshaks should initialize the subject and
demonstrate as and when required. More points can be explored with the help of
Shiksharthis. Next day, a small competition can be arranged giving three to four
minutes to each participant)
1)
Read the story and understand the message that is to be conveyed through
this story. Story telling should revolve around that theme. Story teller need
not have to tell at the end of story the moral of this story is ...
2)
Do not read, but tell the story. We will miss eye contact when we are looking
at the book. Reading a story is useful with small group of 2-3 children at
home.
3)
Modulations in the voice. Vary the volume and tone with the story.
4)
You should enjoy the story, so the expressions come out on your face and in
your voice. Drop all the inhibitions about acting.
5)
Eye contact: Move your eyes so that you can see every one.
6)
Slow down the pace. During normal conversation, most of us speak fast and
without much modulation. Children should be able to follow you. So, dont
rush. By looking into their eyes, you can see whether they are enjoying it or
not.
7)
The pace should vary with the meaning of the sentence. When you say, The
lion came slow..ly, slow down the speed. When you say, She started running
fast without looking at the back, speed up your telling also.
8)
Before or after you make a strong point, pause for a while. That gives some
time for them to feel the story.
9)
You can make it gently interactive, Ask questions in between. Questions which
require them to say YES or NO. Dont end up in a discussion!
10)
Have a smiling face.
11)
Body language: Make use of your hands to bring in the expression needed at
places.
12)
Use examples from their day-to-day life to make it more interesting.
13)
You can use some pictures to show them.
14)
Every one of us have our own strengths. Use all your creativity and come up
with a style that suits you best.
19
May
Shloka
Shloka
ramay ram-ay,
ramcNay vexse.
runaway naway,
sItaya> ptye nm>.
I ram (r rma)
rmya rmabhadrya |
rmacandrya vedhase ||
raghunthya nthya |
sty pataye nama ||
My salutations to Bhagawan Sri Rama, the protector of all, one who knows all, the
descendant of the Raghu dynasty, the husband of Sita and the Bhagawan of the entire
universe.
Subhashitam
kavyaSaas~ivanaao d o n a kalaao gacCit QaImatama\ |

vyasanao n a ca maU K a- N aaM inad` y aa klaho n a vaa ||
A intelligent (buddhiman) man spends his time in the research and studies of literature (Kaavya)
and philosophy (Shastras like Veda Shastra, dharma shastra etc.). Or in other words the said
subjects are means of his entertainment (He gets satisfaction due to the studies of kaavya and
philosophy). In contrast a unintelligent (Murkha) man gets satisfaction in bad habits like sleep
(Laziness), quarrel or some type of addiction.
Amrutvachan
Doing is very good, but that comes from thinkingFill the
brain, therefore, with high thoughts, highest ideas; place them
day and night before you; and out of that will great work
- Swami Vivekananda
20
May
Geet
clae -?a$ clae (Chalo bhai chalo)
clae -?a$ clae zaoa me clae , waefI der Ab tum sb kam -Ulae
clae -a$ clae s<g s<g clae , Aaj ke idn jra hsae AaEr oelae.
ram k:[ ke varIs hm, gvR se khte ih< hm
-gva Xvj hE pUJy prm , vNdn %se krae s<g s<g clae.
sIta ka mat&Tv hme, zaEyR lim ka hE tn me
maEsIjI kI Aan hme , Aage bFae AaEr s<g s<g clae.

Daeqe Daeqe be hm, kam bfa kre<ge hm
xrm kI r]a kre<ge hm, khe<ge vNde matrm.

zaoa me hE Real Fun, kbI oae oae me rmta mn
krae yaeg -Ulae gm, kdm imla Aae s<g s<g clae.
Chalo bhai chalo Shaakha me chalo, Thodi der ab tum sab kaam bhulo
Chalo bhai chalo sang sang chalo, Aj ke din zaraa haso aur khelo ||
Raam Krishna ke vaaris ham, Garv se kahate hindu hai ham
Bhagvaa dhwaj hai pujya param, Vandan use karo sang sang chalo ||
Jijaa kaa maatritva hame, Shaurya lakshmi kaa hai tan me
Mausiji ki aan hame, Aage bado aur sang sang chalo ||
Chote chote bachche ham, Kaam badaa karenge ham
Dharam ki rakshaa karenge ham, Kahenge vande maataram ||
Shaakhaa me hai REAL FUN, Kabaddi kho kho me ramtaa man
Karo yoga bhulo gam, Kadam milao sang sang chalo ||
21
May
Hindu Dharma
Symbols in Hinduism
The Hindu symbols are divine and have a scientic, logical and spiritual
signicance. Understanding them lends meaning and appreciation to all
Hindu customs, traditions and beliefs. Hindu culture tailors itself constantly
to take the best of the modern technological age without losing its roots. It is
this adaptability that has enabled Hinduism to be recognized as one of the
worlds oldest living religion.
The term symbol means representation. Each symbol in Hinduism
represents an aspect of Hindu way of life. Here are some of the most prominent
and frequently used symbols.
Aum (Om)
Aum is the universal name of Eshwara. The Aum symbolizes the three
states (waking, dream and deep sleep), the three deities (Brahma, Vishnu and
Maheshswara), the three Vedas (Rig, Yajur and Sama), the
three worlds (Bhuh, Bhuvah, Suvah). Aum is also called
pranava that means that (symbol or sound) by which the
Eshwara is praised.
It is believed that Eshwara began to create the
world after chanting Aum. Hence its sound is considered
to create an auspicious beginning for any task that we
undertake. Aum creates profound effect on the body and
mind of the one who chants and also on the surroundings.
So it is a frequently chanted sound by Hindus all over the world. The Hindus
repeat Aum as a mantra for meditation. They greet each other saying Hari
Om or Om etc. They worship and use this auspicious sign for all spiritual
occasions.
22
May
Hindu Dharma
Swastika
Swastika is derived from sanskrit word svastika which is composed of

su meaning good and asti meaning to be. Together it means
well being. In India, it is used as a symbol of fertility and
good luck. Swastika in Hindu culture also symbolizes the sun
and the positive energy from it. It is most commonly associated
with Ganeshji, the bhagwan of prosperity and wealth. Hindus
all around the world use this symbol to denote auspiciousness,
good luck and prosperity in their homes and in all kinds of
religious occasions.
Bhagwa Dhwaj
Bhagwa (saffron color) represents the sun. The sun
has the highest place in vedic literature as the sustainer of
all and the source of energy. It acts as a reminder of the
power of God, the act of seless service and renunciation.
The Bhagwa Dhwaj in the same way represents seless
service and righteousness. It stands for our sustained effort
to uphold dharma through self sacrice. The Bhagwa dhwaj
reminds us of our duty towards the Hindu community and the society as a
whole. The bhagwa dhwaj can be found on Hindu temples and other Hindu
religious sites.
Kamala (Lotus)
Lotus is a symbol of truth, auspiciousness and beauty
(satyam, shivam , sundaram). Eshwara is also that nature and
therefore, his various aspects are compared to a lotus (i.e. lotus
eyes, lotus feet, lotus hands, lotus of the heart etc.). Hindu
scriptures extol the beauty of the lotus. Many comparisons have
been made to the nature of the Lotus. The lotus blooms with
the rising sun and closes at night. Similarly, our minds open
up and expand with the light of knowledge. The lotus grows in slushy areas
yet remains beautiful and untainted despite its surroundings. In the same
23
May
Hindu Dharma
way we too should strive to remain pure and beautiful from within under all
circumstances, not giving up on our basic nature of bliss.Lotus is also said to
have emerged from the navel of Bhagwan Vishnu. Brahmaji originated from
it to create the world. Hence, the lotus also symbolizes the link between the
creator and the supreme cause. Lotus posture (padmaasana) is recommended
when one sits for meditation. Lotus is also drawn as a rangoli for festive
occasions. Lotus owers are offered to the hindu deities during pujas.
Shankh (Conch)
Shankh represents dharma or righteousness that
is one of the four goals of life. The sound of conch is
thus also the victory call of good over evil. The story
goes, the demon Shankhaasura defeated the devas,
stole the Vedas and went to the bottom of the ocean.
Bhagwan Vishnu in the form of matsya (sh) killed
Shankhaasura. Mahavishnu blew the conch-shaped
bone of the asuras ear and head. The sound of Om emanated, from which
emerged the Vedas. All knowledge enshrined in the Vedas is an elaboration of
Om. The conch therefore is known as shankh.Conch is blown traditionaly in
poojas and sacred occasions. The sound of the conch produces auspicious
sounds and drowns all negative noises that disturb the minds of worshippers.
Lord Krishna blew the conch called the paanchajanya when he was charioteer
to Arjuna in the Kurukshetra war.
Kalash
A kalash is a pot lled with water. Mango leaves are
placed in the mouth of the pot and a coconut is placed over
it. Sometimes red and white threads are tied around the
Kalash. The water in the kalash symbolizes the giver of life to
all and from which the entire creation emerged. The mango
leaves and coconut represent creation and the threads around
it signify the love that binds all in creation. The kalash is
therefore considered auspicious and worshipped.
24
May
Hindu Dharma
Kalash as a poornakumbha (full pot) is used to greet learned men

acknowledging their greatness and knowledge of the innite Truth and as
a sign of respectful welcome. Kalash is also used in poojas and in kumba
asbisheka in temples invoking the holy rivers, the knowledge of the veds and
the blessings of all devas.
Tilak
A tilak is a mark on the forehead. A tilak is applied
both by females and males. It can be in the form of chandan,
kumkum or bhasma(ash). The tilak covers the spot between
the eyebrows, which is the seat of memory and thinking. It is
known as the Aajna Chakra in the language of Yoga. The tilak
is applied with the prayer May I remember Eshwara. May this
pious feeling prervade all my activities. May I be righteous in
my deeds.. Even when we temporarily forget this prayerful attitude the mark
on another reminds us of our resolve. So the tilak is a blessing of Eshwara
and a protection against wrong tendencies and forces.
Rangoli
A Rangoli is a creative expression of art through the
use of color. It is a (alpana or kolam) is a symmetrical
or freehand design drawn by the traditional Hindu
woman in front of their pooja room or house. These
designs represent auspiciousness and hospitality. It
is a warm and colorful way of welcoming every visitor
home. A Rangoli can be drawn with rice our or white
stone powder. In ancient times rangolis adorned the
walls and oors of all rooms. Rangolis drawn with rice
our served as a source of food for ants and little insects. This concept of
giving or feeding every living thing was installed in the minds of Hindus right
from when they were small.
25
May
Great Personalities
The Life of the Buddha

Siddartha (Gautama) was born in the sixth century BC in the country
Nepal. In those days, Nepal was a part of Bharat (India). Siddarthas father,
Suddhodana, was the ruler of the Sakya people, and Siddartha grew up living
the extravagant life of a young prince. But, looking at the behavior of his son,
Suddhodana felt that his son (the prince) might leave the palace to take up the
life of a religious wanderer. So he arranged for him to be sheltered from all the
harsh realities of life. When the prince reached the age of sixteen, Suddhodana
arranged for him to be married to his cousin, a charming princess named
Yasodhara.
One day, however, Siddartha ventured out into the world and was
confronted with the inevitability of aging, illness, and death. Overcome by
dismay, the young prince wondered if there might be a happiness that was not
subject to change and decay. Then, seeing a forest wanderer, he decided that
only by taking up the wilderness life could he nd the answer to his question.
That night, at the age of twenty-nine, he left his kingdom and newborn son
and entered the wilderness.
For six years, Siddartha submitted himself to rigorous ascetic practices.
First he studied with different religious teachers, but, dissatised with what
they saw as their highest goal, he set out to practice extreme physical austerities
on his own. Yet even through the ultimate in self-denial, he did not reach
his goal. Then one day he remembered a state of calm mental absorption he
had experienced while sitting under a tree as a child, and realized that only
through such a state of calm could liberation be found. And yet the strength of
that calm could not be reached when the body was weak through austerities.
The path to true happiness required balancethe middle wayrather than
extremes of indulgence or self-denial. So on that day he ended his extreme
austerities and accepted a gift of milk-rice offered to him by a young woman.
That night Siddartha sat under the bodhi tree and meditated until dawn.
26
Great Personalities
May
In the rst watch of the night he remembered his past lives; in the second
watch, around midnight, he saw how beings die and are reborn through the
power of their karma, which in turn was shaped by the skillfulness of their
intentions; in the third watch, toward dawn, he puried his mind of all cravings,
attachments, and delements, and nally of all intentions, both skillful and
not. With that, he attained awakening at the age of thirty-ve, thus earning
the title Buddha, or Awakened One.
For the remainder of his life, the Buddha taught the dharma to others
men, women, and children; rich and poor; people from all walks of life and all
levels of societyso that they, too, might attain awakening. He established
a sangha, or community of monks and nuns, to maintain his teachings after
his death.
What were the teachings of this great man? According to Buddha, there
are Four Noble Truths and they are of vital importance in life. They are the
very pivots on which human life rests. These four truths are:
1)
2)
3)
4)
The world is full of misery and sorrow.

The main cause of misery is desire.
Misery and sorrow can be ended by killing desire and
Desire can be suppressed by following the Eight-fold Path
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
Right
Right
Right
Right
Right
Right
Right
Right
Action
Belief
Effort
Speech
Thought
Meditation
Living and
Recollection
Then, one full moon night in May when he had reached the age of eighty,
he lay down between two trees in a forest park and gave his last teachings to
the assembled followers, counseling them to be heedful in completing their
practice of dharma. With that, he entered total nirvana. He died in 487 BC.
27
May
Sangh
Meaning of Sangh Prarthana

Prarthanaa means prayer. In Sangh, we sing Prarthanaa at the end of
every Shakha. It is a collective vow. Prarthana sheds light on the following
questions.
1.
Whom are we praying to?
2.
Who are we?
3.
What qualities are we praying for?
4.
What is our collective vision, mission ?
5.
What is our means to realize that vision ?
6.
Firm conviction that this is divine mission - Gods work
This topic is to be covered in two weeks. In each week, practice how to

sing and then explain the meaning of Prarthana.
Whom are we praying to?
Sarva Mangala Maangalyaam

Deveem Sarvaartha Saadhikaam
Sharanyaam Sarva Bhootanaam
Namaamo Bhoomi Mataram (1)
Sachchidaanada Roopaaya
Vishwa Mangala Hetave
Vishwa Dharmaika Moolaaya
Namostu Paramaatmane (2)
First two stanzas provide answer to this question. First, we are offering our
salutations to Mother Earth. Mother Earth is described as the auspiciousness
of all that is auspicious, fulller of all our needs and the refuge of all the beings.
28
May
Sangh
Since the Vedic times, Earth has always been looked upon as Mother and is
respected by Hindus. Truly it is Mother Earth, who fullls all our necessities
and provide the shelter for all the beings. Exploitation of earth and nature in
general is deplored in our traditions. Mother earth has enough resources to
satisfy every ones need but not their greed.
Next, we offer our salutations to God, who is described as the very
embodiment of truth, consciousness and bliss. God is also addressed as the
source of all good things happening in the world. God is also the source for
Dharma, which upholds the universe.
Who are We?
Vishwa Dharma Vikaasartham

Prabho Sanghatitaa Vayam
Shubhaam Aashisham Asmabhayam
Dehi Tat Paripoortaye (3)
In the 3rd stanza, we introduce ourselves as people who are getting
organized for the sake of spreading and blossoming of vishwa dharma
(universal dharma). To realize this grand vision, we are seeking the blessings
of the God.
What qualities are we praying for?
Ajayyam Aatma Saamarthyam

Susheelam Loka Poojitam
Gyanam Cha Dehi Vishwesha
Dhyeya Maarga Prakaashakam (4)
We are praying God to make us better equipment to fulll this noble
mission. In the above stanza, we are asking God to bless us with three
qualities.
Ajayyam Aatma Saamarthyam - Invincible Strength: We should be strong
so that no one would dare insult us, offend us. Our strength is not to do harm
to any one, but to ensure that no one does harm to us. The world understands
29
May
Sangh
the language of Strength. The world respects and worships Strength. Thats
why Hindus worship Mother Durga, the Goddess of Strength.
Susheelam loka puujitam - Good character that commands respect
from all: Along with the physical strength, we should possess good character.
Strength without character is dangerous to the society. Character without
strength is not of much use.
Dhyeya maarga prakaashakam Jnaanam: Knowledge that would throw
light upon our mission: Here we are asking for the right knowledge that would
enlighten us and bring clarity in our minds about our chosen mission.
Material progress and Spiritual upliftment
SamutKarshostuno Nityam
Nishreyasa Samanvitah
Tatsaadhakam Sphuratwantah
Suveera Vratamujwalam (5)
Our aim is to achieve splendid material progress and facilitate spiritual
development of each individual. The two phrases, samutkarsha and
nishreyasa convey these two concepts of material and spiritual progress.
We pray for that enlightening vow to realize such a society to spring from
our hearts.
Let our commitment to the cause be rm
Vishwa Dharma Prakaashena

Vishwa Shaanti Pravartake
Hindu Sanghatanaa Kaarye
Dhyeya Nishthaa Sthiraastunah (6)
We want to achieve world peace and harmony in the light of our universal
Dharma. In this mission of organizing people towards that, let our commitment
be rm.
30
May
Sangh
Our grand Vision - Pinnacle of Glory
Sangha Shaktir Vijetreeyam

Krutvaasmad Dharma Rakshanam
Paramam Vaibhavam Praaptum
Samarthaastu Tavaashisha (7)
Our grand vision is to establish peace and harmony in the world. It will
be a glory to the human civilization whereby every individual can realize his
or her potential to the fullest. The means to achieve this is by protecting the
Dharma. We are seeking your blessings so that this organized strength will
be triumphant.
This is Gods work. Offerings
Tvadiiye Punya Kaaryesmin

Vishwa KalyaaNa Saadhake
Tyaaga Seva Vratasyaayam
Kaayome Patatu Prabho (8)
This mission of welfare of the entire humanity is Gods work. We are only
instruments in this noble task. We are praying God that let our life be offered
in this life of sacrice and service.
Vishwa Dharma Ki Jay

|| Victory to the Universal Dharma ||
31
May
Exercise

(Following are the lines of Sangh Prarthana)
1) Dhyeya Maarga
1) Pravartake
2) Tyaaga Seva
2) Ki Jay
3) Vishwa Dharma
3) Vijetreeyam
4) Hindu Sanghatanaa
4) Vratasyaayam
5) Sarva Mangala
5) Prakaashakam
6) Vishwa Shaanti
6) Kaarye
7) Sangha Shaktir
7) Maangalyaam
Fill up the blanks

1)
A ____________ is a mark on the forehead.

a) Shankha
2)
b) seventh
c) rst
d) second
b) Tilak
c) Rangoli
d) Bhagwa dhwaj
b) Kalash
c) Shankha
d) None of these
b) Suddhodana c) Mahavir
d) None of these
In prarthana, we offer salutations to _____________.

a) Friends
32
d) Kalash
Siddartha is ____________.
a) Buddha
7)
c) Rangoli
The Hindus repeat ________ as a mantra for meditation.

a) Aum
6)
b) Tilak
The ___________ reminds us of our duty towards the Hindu community.

a) Kalash
5)
d) None of these.
Siddartha (Gautama) was born in the ________ century BC.

a) sixth
4)
c) tilak
A _________ is a creative expression of art through the use of color.

a) Shankha
3)
b) Kalash
b) Parents
c) Mother Earth
d) None of these
May
Exercise
Questions
1)
What is the meaning of Subhashitam?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2)
Write last two lines of the Shloka.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3)
Write second stanza of the Geet

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
4)
According to Siddarth, what are the four truths?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
5)
Describe the Hindu Symbol - Aum?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
33
May
Exercise
Questions for Research

(Note that answers to these questions may not be found in this curriculam. It
is expected that you get those answers from other sources such as Parents,
Books or Internet)
1)
List at least two Hindu Symbols that are not included in this
curriculum. Describe them.
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2)
What are the main scriptures in Buddhism?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
34
May
Competition
Competition of Story Telling

( Note: shikshaks should conduct the competition. Ask each participant
to remember the points of art of story telling they learnt last week. Four to ve
minutes can be given to each participant to tell the story. Competition should
be friendly. In rst attempt they may not perform well. So give them a second
chance.)
Suggested stories are 1)
Tanaji Malusare, Commander of Shivaji, wins Kondhana Fort.
2)
Krishna kills Shishupal
3)
Story of Monkey and Crocodile
4)
Lakshamana kills Shurpankha
5)
Keshav (Doctorji) refuses to eat sweets that were distributed

in his school.
35
June
Sangh
Shloka
Tvmev mata c ipta Tvmev,
Tvmev bNxu soa Tvmev,
Tvmev iv*a iv[< Tvmev,
Tvmev sv mm devdev.
tvameva maataa cha pitaa tvameva.

tvameva bandhushcha sakhaa tvameva.
tvameva vidyaa draviNaM tvameva.
tvameva sarvaM mama devadeva..
O Bhagawan, you only is (my) mother, you only is (my) father, your only is (my) relation,
you only is (my) friend, you only is (my) knowledge, you only is (my) wealth, you only is
everything, you are the BHAGAWAN of the Devas.
Subhashitam
Aaid%yasya namaskarM yao ku v a- i nt idnao idnao |

janmaantrsahs~o Y au daird` y aM naao P ajaayato ||
The people who bow down to the Sun (perform SUryanamaskArs) everyday, poverty does
not arise in their lives for thousands of births. (The people who are punctual in their duties
like Sun, never become poor.)
Amrutvachan
The test of true friendship is the ability to remain unoffended
in face of adverse comments. Even if a person says or does
something which in the eyes of others appears to harm or insult
him and still he does not in the least feel its prick, then alone
can he claim true friendship with that person.
- Shree Guruji
36
June
Sangh
Geet
BAAL HAI GOPAL HAI
Baal Hai Gopal Hai, Hum Dharma Ke Bhaal Hai
Hum Dharma Ke Bhaal Hai
Poorshottam Maryaadaa Dhaaree, Dwaapar-men Hum Krushana Muraaree

Har Yuga Men Kar Dharma Dhwajaa Le, Vaijayntee Gal Maal Hai
Bal Hai Gopall Hai(1)
Veer Shivaa Ranaa Abhimaanee, Guru Govind Sinha Theh Balidaanee
Bandaa Vairaagee Jaisn Ke, Tejasvee Hum Laal Hai
Bal Hai Gopal Hai(2)
Naana Taatyaa Raanee Jansi, Pralayankar Ban Chumee Phaansee
Pandey Mangal Kukaa Phadake, Dhadhak Uthay Ve Jwaal Hai
Dayanand Aravind Vivekaa, Eka Tatvake Roop Aneko
Divya Jyoti Keshava Maadhava Ki, Sampaadita Har Praana Hai
Meaning
Our baal are the Gopal and the armoury of Dharma (Duty to uphold righteousness).
In Treta-yuga the magnicent complete being was baal Raam and in Dwaapar-yuga was baal Krishna.
In every yuga, the establishing of the victory ag of dharma is the precious wealth we give.
The brave Shivaji and Rana are our pride and Guru Govind singh was a great martyr. Like Banda
Vairagee, our bravery shines magniciently.
Naana, Taatyaa and Queen of Jansi met death in the ames of re. Our rage cannot be controlled as
the ames rise high.
Dayaanand, Aravindo and Vivekanand all had the same vision but with variation only in approach.
The bright light given by Keshav (PP Doctorji) and Madhav (PP Guruji) is present in everyone of us.
37
Sangh
June
Vandaneeya Mausiji
100 years ago, there was a baby girl born in Maharashtra. Her name was
Kamal, which means Lotus. Kamals moms name was Yashodabai and her
dads name was Bhaskarrao. As Kamal grew up, everyone loved her. She loved
going to the temple with her auntie, whom she called Dai. At the temple,
she enjoyed singing bhajans and mantras, and listening to stories. Kamal was
greatly inuenced by Yahodabai and Dai. They taught Kamal about the Hindu
gods and goddesses. She loved listening to these stories and grew up loving
her culture.
Soon, it was time for Kamal to start school.
But there was only one school in the whole village,
and that was a Christian Missionary School. All
the teachers in this school made fun of the Hindu
culture. Kamal did not like this at all, but tried to
ignore it for the sake of learning. Then one day,
Kamal stood up against the teachers. When it was
prayer time, the teacher said, Class, close your eyes
and pray. After a few seconds, Kamal opened her
eyes and noticed that her teacher was not closing
her eyes. Kamal! yelled the teacher. Close your
eyes!
Kamal was so brave that she said, But Madam, why arent you closing
your eyes. You should practice what you preach! The teacher became very
angry and she slapped Kamal across her cheek. When Kamal went home,
she told her mom the whole story and said that she would never go to the
Missionary School again.
From then on, Kamal was taught at home by her mom and Dai. They
taught Kamal all about the Hindu Samskars and patriotism. Kamal loved
her country. At this time. India was ruled by the British. The British treated
the Indian people very badly. Kamal did not like this at all. Yashodabai also
disliked the British rule. She held meetings at her home for all the ladies
38
Sangh
June
in the neighborhood. They read and discussed Kesari magazine. Kesari

was a magazine published by Lokmanya Balgangadhara Tilak, a famous
freedom ghter. These discussions also inuenced Kamal and increased her
patriotism.
Once, during a Kesari meeting, a British ofcer knocked on the door
and interrupted the meeting. Buying Kesari is illegal, he said to Yashodabai.
Your husband is a government servant. You cannot use his money to buy
Kesari. But Yahsodabai was so brave that she said, No! I buy Kesari with my
own money, and I am not a government servant! the British ofcer could not
argue with this statement, and he left. Kamal greatly admired her mothers
bravery and boldness.
Kamal loved playing outside with her brothers, and she also enjoyed
playing dolls with her friends. She was very good at playing games; whenever
there was a ght, she would give inspiring speeches to patch things up and
make everyone friends again. Look here, let us forget our petty quarrels.
No one is either inferior or superior. Each person has his own importance.
Let us not indulge in petty disputes. Everyone was mesmerized by Kamals
speeches. Kamal was also very kind to others. Whenever someone was sick,
she and Dai went to help them out and take care of them, no matter how rich
or poor they were.
After Kamal was married to Purushottama Rao, her name was changed
to Lakshmibai Kelkar. Unfortunately, Lakshmibais husband and her eldest
daughter died of tuberculosis. Two of Lakshmibais sons went to shakha and
Lakshmibai liked the shakha very much. But, at that time, only boys went to
shakha, not girls. So Lakshmibai decided to start shakhas for girls.
Even though she was very busy raising 7 children by herself, Lakshmibai
still found the time to start Rashtra Sevika Samiti, an organization that
started shakhas for women and girls. The girls liked the shakha a lot. They
affectionately called Lakshmibai Mausi ji which means Aunt. Mausi ji
traveled all over the country setting up shakhas and inspiring women. Soon,
there were Samiti shakhas all over the world. Today, we remember Mausi ji as
brave and determined. She was never scared to stand up for her beliefs, and
she never gave up.
39
Hindu Dharma
June
Introduction to Hindu Scriptures

The Hindu scriptures are the product of relentless investigations into
the facts and truth of life carried out by the ancient sages of Bharat. They
contain systematic treatises on varied subjects in the elds of science, religion,
metaphysics, philosophy and spiritual knowledge.
They are not limited to a few books because Hinduism does not conne
ideas; therefore the scriptures have become a home for many different schools
of thought. There is no single textbook for Mathematics nor is there a last
or only Mathematician. Mathematics is the collective knowledge of all the
Mathematicians over the ages. Similarly what we call Hinduism is the collective
knowledge of all the sages who went to discover the Truth. Veda, the oldest
scripture known to humankind, literally means knowledge.
In Hinduism, there are two categories of books:
1. Shrutis, which deal with never changing, eternal principles, and
2. Smritis, which often deal with the practical application of those
principles to the ever changing social order.
Shruti means what is heard and Smriti means what is remembered.
Shruti being divinely revealed to the great Rishis of yore in the depths of
their mystical experience, its authority is supreme. Smritis are the secondary
scriptures, which derive their authority from the Shruti. Their business is to
explain, elaborate and illustrate the fundamental teachings of the Shruti.
However, according to the Hindu view, revelations are not limited to any
individual, time or place. Just as there have been revelations in the past, they
can occur at present or in future also. The seer is only a medium to transmit
the insight, which he receives. Hence he is no more the inventor of the Veda
than Newton is the generator of the law of gravity. The laws always existed and
40
Hindu Dharma
June
they were only discovered or seen. Thats why the Rishis are called seers.
The Vedas are four in number-the Rig Veda, the Yajur Veda, the Sama
Veda and the Atharva Veda. The Rig Veda is the most ancient scripture of the
world. Lokamanya Tilak, on the strength of astronomical evidences, concludes
that it is at least 8,000 years old.
The Rig Veda consists of hymns which are mostly prayers. The Yajur
Veda deals mainly with sacricial rites. The Sama Veda contains a portion of
the Rig Vedic hymns set to music. These have to be sung at appropriate stages
during a sacrice. The Atharva Veda, which is a later composition, consists
mostly of morals and ethical codes as also a few worldly sciences.
Each Veda is usually divided into four parts: Samhitas, Brahmanas,
Aranyakas and Upanishads. The Samhitas contain prayers and mantras
used in sacrices. The Brahmanas give the know-how of sacricial rites,
Aranyakas teach the art of certain types of meditation, based mostly on wellknown sacrices. The Upanishads contain the highest philosophical ights of
the Vedic sages, which can be the pride of the whole human race for all time.
Schopenhauer, the famous German savant, has declared: In the whole world
there is no study, except that of the originals, so benecial and so elevating as
that of the Upanishads. It has been the solace of my life, it will be the solace
of my death.
Then comes the Bhagavad Gita, the most popular of all the Hindu
scriptures. The Gita, as it is shortly called, is so well-known all over the world
that it has been the second most translated work. Though the Bible ranks rst
in this regard it should be remembered that its translations were sponsored
by the mighty machinery of the colonial rulers of Europe with the enormous
material resources at its command. As for the Gita, its beauty, sublimity and
universality prompted its admirers to translate it into different languages of
the world.
Its probably the only religious book that was taught in a battleeld,
a place lled with action. It was not taught to the disciples in the serene
mountains of Himalayas. It is in the form of a dialogue between Sri Krishna,
the great incarnation of God, and Arjuna, the warrior prince and a man of
41
Hindu Dharma
June
action, who was caught in a dilemma about his duties. He was confused as to
what is right and what is wrong. Serious questions concerning life and death,
duty and devotion, knowledge and meditation were discussed, and sensible
solutions offered which hold good even to this day. Manliness and seless
devotion to duty are the keynotes of this great little scripture of 700 verses.
There is a verse in Sanskrit that compares the Upanishads to the cows
and the Gita to the milk. In other words, the Gita gives the essence of the
Upanishadic philosophy in a simple and practicable form. It is an integral
part of the Mahabharata.
Any list of the Hindu scriptures is incomplete without the two great
epics, the Ramayan and the Mahabharata. Though these two great books deal
primarily with the story of Sri Rama and that of the Kuru dynasty respectively,
they can more rightly be called the encyclopedia of Hindu religion and culture.
These two popular works have inuenced and inspired the Hindu civilization
for thousands of years. They are technically called Itihasa (history) since they
contain the history of the two most important dynasties that ruled and shaped
the destinies of our Hindu civilization.
The Puranas are another class of scriptures that describe the teachings
of the Vedas through myths, legends and examples of great people. They were
created to popularize and simplify religious teachings. There are eighteen main
Puranas and many other lesser Puranas. There is also the Devi Mahatmya
which describes the worship of God as the Divine Mother.
The Smritis of Manu, Yajnavalkya and Parashara, the Agamas and the
treatises on the Darshanas are the other scriptures forming the magnicent
edice of Hinduism built upon the foundation of the Vedas. The Smritis are
mostly codes of law intended to regulate Hindu society from time to time,
according to the principles of the Veda. The Agamas are scriptures dealing
with the worship of a particular aspect of God and prescribing detailed courses
of discipline for the worshipper. The Darshanas are schools of philosophy.
The Buddhism and Jainism deny the authority of Vedas. In Sanskrit,
those accept the authority of the Vedas are called Astika and those who reject
the Vedas are called Nastika. Buddhist, Jain and Charvaka (materialism)
scriptures are often termed Nastika literature, though they remain rmly
42
Hindu Dharma
June
within the fold of Hinduism. Dharmpad and Tripitakas in Buddhism and

Kalpa Sutra in Jainism are the main scriptures.
Tamil is the oldest of the Dravidian group of languages. It has both
Shaivism and Vaishnavism in its classical literature. On the Shaivite side
are the four great teacher-saints: Appar, Sundarar, Thirujnaanasambandhar
and Manikkavacagar. Their compositions are known as Thevaram and
Thiruvacakam. Another literary masterpiece describing the idealistic forms
of behavior, conduct and ethics is Thirukkural. This anthology of three-line
verse numbering 1330 in all, was written by Tirukkural in Tamil. The most
popular Vaishnava literature in Tamil is Nalayira Divya Prabandham which
is a collection of 4000 verses and comprises devotional songs written by poet
saints known as Alvars.
As mentioned earlier, Hinduism is not a closed book. From time to time,
sages in Bharat have given new impetus to the faith by removing bad or
misleading practices and re-establishing the teachings of the Vedas. One
example is Sikhism, which was founded by Guru Nanak Dev about 500 years
ago. The Guru Granth Sahib is the main scripture of Sikhism. It is written
in Punjabi. The concept of Ek Omkar taught by Guru Nanak Dev is rooted
in Vedas.
Another example is Arya Samaj movement started by Swami Dayananda
Saraswati more 100 years ago. His best known books are Satyarth Prakash
(Light of Truth) and commentaries on the Vedas.
There are many more books, some lost in the past, some still being
written, and there will no doubt be many in the future. This is the secret
of dynamism in Hinduism. Unity in diversity is the strength of our culture,
enabling us to survive as the worlds oldest religion and yet remain modern.
43
Great Personalities
June
Raja Shivaji
A young prince is seated on the throne. His soldiers have brought a
handcuffed Patil (a village chief) before him. Patil, with a thick and long
moustache, had dishonored a helpless widow. In a stern and majestic tone
the Young prince announced the judgment, cut off his both hands and feet!!
This is the least punishment for the crime he has commited. All present were
taken aback at the rm devotion of the prince to justice. Not only were they
wonder-struck but also pleased beyond measure. The village people began to
say to one another: Ah! Look! How devoted to justice our young prince is! He
is not in the least afraid of the wicked people. He is kind and loving towards
the poor, the downfallen and the wretched. He is ever determined to help
them and to protect them. What is more, he regards all women as mothers!
Dont you wish to know who this young prince was? He was none other
than Shivaji. At the time of this incident he was just fourteen. In another
incident... in Nachani village of Pune province, a ferocious and huge cheetah
was creating nuisance. He used to attack villagers suddenly and run away into
the jungle. Scared villagers ran to Shivaji for help. They cried, Save us from
this wild animal. He has killed so many children. He attacks us especially in the
night!. After patiently listening to villagers, he said, dont worry!! Calm down.
I am here to help you. Shivaji, with his chieftain Yesaji and few soldiers, went
to the jungle. As soon as the cheetah appeared, Shivajis soldiers frightened
and backed off. But Shivaji and Yesaji bravely confronted the Cheetah and
killed him in no time. Villagers rejoiced and hailed, Jay Shivaji!!
Shivajis father name was Shahaji. He was always away from home,
ghting wars. How he became aware of this fearless and unique nature of his
son is itself an interesting story. On a certain occasion, Shahaji took his son to
the court of the Sultan of Bijapur. Shahaji and all others touched the ground
thrice and saluted the Sultan. He asked his son Shivaji to do the same thing.
But.....! Shivaji stood erect with his head unbent. He seemed to be determined
that he would not bow down to a foreign ruler. He walked back from the court
with a lion-like gait and bearing.
How did Shivaji acquire all these noble virtues - courage, heroism,
love of the motherland and Dharma? Even when he was a little child, his
44
Great Personalities
June
mother Jijabai used to tell him stories of heroes, of sages who appear in the
Ramayana, and the Mahabharatha. She taught him all about Hindu Samskars
and patriotism. As Shivaji listened to these tales of heroism and Dharmik
deeds, he grew more and more eager to be like Rama or Krishna, Bheema or
Arjuna. His teacher, Dadoji Kondadev was a great man. He not only taught
Shivaji about all kinds of warfare tactics but also about politics and good
administration. Both, Dadoji kondadev and Jijabai, carved his personality.
Though shivaji was a prince, he enjoyed playing with anyone of his age
and easily mixed up with the common peple. Soon, he became the heart of
all. At the age of twelve, He and his friends took the oath of defeating foreign
rulers and establish swarajya where people can live fearless and happy and
follow their dharma. At the young age of sixteen, he started raising his own
army. In the same age, he captured one of the forts. It was the fort of Torana.
Another meaning of Torana is garland. Jijabai proudly said, look! Shivaji has
brought us a garland of independence!.
As Shivaji grew old, he fought many
wars and defeated several lieutenants and
commenders of foreign rulers. He not only
established his independent sovereign against
all odds but also undertook reforms to make
his people happy. He inspired and united the
common man to ght against the tyranny of
foreign rulers such as Aurangjeb, by inculcating
a sense of pride and nationality in them. Isnt it
great about Shivaji? Sant (sage) Ramadas was
his spiritual guru (teacher). He sang in praise
of Shivaji: The land and its Dharma have
been uplifted. A kingdom of bliss has arisen.
Why Shivaji was so successful? Though there
are several reasons, one of the most important
reasons is his warfare strategy.
Warfare strategies and tactics

Shivaji was a great visionary and had lot of zeal to accomplish his mission.
Shivaji seemed to be successful in reading the minds of enemies. He adopted
guerilla warfare. He believed in sudden attack, make damage and run away
45
Great Personalities
June
before enemy gets alert. Speed was his mantra. He would leave the enemy
miles behind after he carried out the strikes. His ultimate aim was absolute
victory for which he would not mind a tactical retreat or to step back and run
away from the battle whenever required.
Shivaji was a meticulous planner. He developed a well-oiled network of
spies across Bharat to keep the track of all the activities of the power centers
of enemies. His strong intelligence network was the basis of his victory. He
conducted ambitious operations like joint attack using cavalry, army and navy.
He was aggressive. He preferred to attack enemy rather than sitting defensive.
As and when required, he took bold but safe decisions. Unlike other rulers,
he discouraged use of slow animals like elephant and camels in his army.
He preferred horses. His favorite quote was yasya ashwah tasya medini.
Shivaji developed new forts that were invincible. He built more than 140 forts
in his lifetime. A unique record in itself!! These forts were his power.
Though Shivaji was a warrior, he was religious too. He visited spiritual
places and sought the blessings of spiritual persons. Despite all these, he
never mixed religion with politics. Neither did he allow anybody to bring the
religion or castism in administration.
Unique King
In his private life, his moral virtues were exceptionally high. Shivaji did
not spare the enemies when captured, neither did he show any kindness to
them. He preferred to take active part in all battles rather than just sitting
on the throne and ordering his generals and commanders. That is why all his
ministers, commanders and soldiers truly loved him. They were even ready
to sacrify their lives for him. Immediately after coronation, he started his
digvijaya by attacking inner pockets of Mughal kingdom instead of enjoying
Aristocracy. He defended the honor of enemys women. But when Shivaji
captured a daughter-in-law of Subhedar of Kalyan, he not only saved her, but
sent her back to her house with all respect.
Coronation
Shivaji coronated himself after insisting by his family members, people
and a prominent Brahmin. As soon as Shivaji declared himself as a king,
several aristocrats and warriors from various parts of Bharat joined him. As all
kings do, Shivaji also regulated his own currency - Shivarai hon. To eradicate
46
Great Personalities
June
foreign (persian) words from the administration, he published a Rajvyavahar

Kosh (a glossary of equivalent words with Samskrit origin) and implemented
it in his kingdom. He established the Ashta Pradhan Mandal (a Council of
8 Ministers) to serve the people properly and effectively. Each minister was
given the responsibility of major departments like administration, military
affairs, etc.
A caretaker of Praja (people)

Whatever it takes, Shivaji always used to take care of his people.
His people were his rst concern. He introduced a new system of revenue
collection. He regulated dual tax structure where different brackets of taxes
were prevalent depending on the condition of soil/land (whether irrigated or
barren). He never ever increased taxes or put
burden of paying taxes on people. He provided all
kinds of help to farmers. In the days of scarcity,
he spent money from the govts treasury and
provided food and shelter to people. He dug wells,
lakes and constructed water tanks, new temples
across his kingdom. He gave all types of facilities
to the families of soldiers who died in the battle.
He had a good espionage system. He stopped
the practice of slavery which was prevalent in
Bharat. He imposed severe punishment for the
trading of bonded labor. He gave full protection
to women. Women fearlessly moved around
in his tenure. He gave extreme punishment to
criminals (accused) for their misbehavior and
crime and while giving justice he did not even spare his own relatives.
Shivaji, such a great king, lived around 50 years. He was born in the
year 1630 and took his last breath in the year 1680. All his life, he cherished
a dream of Hindavi Swarajya and brought it into reality. He has been a source
of inspiration and pride to the past generations and will continue to inspire
today and future generations too.
47
June
Exercise

(Following are the lines of Sangh Prarthana)
1) Mausi ji
1) A Hindu King
2) Jijabai
2) Hindu Scripture
3) Shivaji
3) Spiritual Guru of Shivaji
4) Sant Ramdas
4) What is heard
5) Shrutis
5) Kamal (Lakshmibai)
6) Smritis
6) Shivajis Mother
7) Gita
7) what is remembered
Fill up the blanks

1)
____________ started shakhas for girls.

a) Doctorji
2)
c) Patil
d) None of these
b) Upanishads c) Vedas
d) None of these
b) Gita
c) Upanishads d) None of these
b) Vedas
c) Ramayana
d) Mahabharata
Known Hindu Scriptures are ____________.

a) Two
48
b) Shahaji
Two great epics are ____________ and ____________.

a) Gita
7)
d) None of these
The oldest scripture is __________.

a) Vedas
6)
b) Rana Pratap c) Shahaji
__________ to the cows and the ________ to the milk.

a) Gita
5)
d) None of these.
Shivaji punished _______ for dishonoring a woman.

a) Yesaji
4)
c) Tilak
_________ coronoted himself as a King.

a) Shivaji
3)
b) Lakshmibai
b) Three
c) Four
d) More than Four
June
Exercise
Questions
1)
What is the meaning of Subhashitam?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
2)
Write last two lines of the Shloka.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
3)
Write rst stanza of the Geet

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
4)
What is meant by Vedas? How many are they?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
5)
What is meant by Shrutis and Smriti?

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
6)
Describe Shivajis Warfare Strategies.

__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
49
June
Skit
Skit
Characters:
Shivaji Raje - a King
Yesaji - Commander of Shivaji Raje
Jijabai - Shivajis Mother
Patil - Chief of a village Ranze
Farmers - 2 or 3 Farmers
Soldiers - 2 or 3 Soldiers
(Frequently Shivaji Raje along with his men used to go around in his province. People used to shout excitedly
SHIVAJI RAJE!!! as they see their king. Whenever Shivaji Raje visits any province, he inquires about the
problems of villagers.
Scene 1
(In this event, Shivaji Raje is affectionately inquiring about peoples problems.)
Farmers to Shivaji - Raje ! we are facing a severe problem of water scarcity. It is been too hot this year. Our
crops are getting dried. We are really worried about our crops.
Shivaji - Yes, I am aware of this problem and I have talked to yesaji about it.
Shivaji to Yesaji - Yesaji ! Make the arrangements and give them some help.
Farmers - (together raising their hands) Shivaji Raje Ki Jay ! (Farmers turn back and go away)
Shivaji - (Murmuring!!) I am really worried, monsoon should be good or else we are going to face many serious problems. This is the second consecutive year of water scarcity.
Yesaji - Dont worry, Raje. It is not as worse as last year.
Shivaji - lets turn back, MaSaheb is waiting for us.
(Shivaji and his soldiers are about to leave. Suddenly a man comes in their way. He is disgusted and frustated)
Man - (in a shrill voice) Raje !! Please help me. I am doomed. Give me justice.
Shivaji - What happened? Why are you so agitated and worried?
Man - (crying, in a sad tone) Raje !! my daughter was dishonoured.
Shivaji - (shocked!!) What? How could this happen in my kingdom? Are you telling truth? Who did that?
Man - (scared !!!) I am scared of him ! I can not take his name.
Shivaji - (consoling, convincing) Dont be scared! I will protect you. Tell me his name.
Man - (still scared, in... voice) Raje ! he is no other, but Patil of my village.
Shivaji to Yesaji - (turns to Yesaji) Yesaji !!! Ask patil to see me at once. If he refuses, arrest him.
(Yesaji goes away to Patils village)
50
June
Skit
Scene 2
Yesaji to Patil - ( orders ) Patil ! Come with me at once. Raje wants to see you.
Patil - (arrongtly !! ) Who Raje? What Raje? I do not recognize any Raje.
Yesaji - Patil ! This is my last warning!! If you do not come, I will have to arrest you.
Patil - Go to hell!! I am not going with you.
(Yesaji with the help of soldiers forcefully grabs him and cuffs him. Patil is shouting and trying to escape)
Scene 3
(Shivaji is sitting on his throne, discussing politics with his ministers and his mother Jijabai. Yesaji comes in)
Yesaji - Raje! I have brought Patil with me. I had to forcefully arrest him.
Shivaji - Bring him in front of me.
(Yesaji brings Patil in. Patil hand-cuffed, tired, angry and agitated)
Shivaji - (high pitch) Patil ! What am I hearing? Is it true? Did you dishonour farmers daughter?
Patil - (arrongtly !! shameless!!) So what? I am Patil. I can and I will do anything I like.
Shivaji - This is my kingdom. I can not tolerate this. You must be punished.
Shivaji to Yesaji - (Orders) Yesaji !! Take this man away. Cut both his hands and legs. That is what his punishment. Do it ! right away.
Yesaji - Ji Raje !!
Patil - (now scared!!, starts crying) Raje ! Please forgive me this time. I wont do it again. Do not punish me
so hard.
(Patil is crying continuously. Yesaji drags him away and cut his hands and legs. Patil shouting.. AH.AH).
(Ministers and Jijabai are shaken by this incident. They disagree with Shivajis decision. They think punishment was too harsh.)
Jijabai to Shivaji - Shivaba !! Dont you think this was too harsh punishment for him? You should have spared
him giving mild punishment?
Shivaji - (respectfully) No.. No MaSaheb !! I did the right thing. In my kingdom, women are most respected.
I can not tolerate anyone hurting them. Otherwise what will be the difference between my reign and Muslims reign?? Now no one will dare to do such a thing.
(Jijabai and other ministers are convinced and happy).
Jijabai - Shabbas, Shivaba !! I am so proud of you.
Other Ministers - (hails Shivaji) Shivaji Raje Ki Jay !! Hara Hara Mahedev !!! Jay Bhavani, Jay Shivaji !!
51

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Balagokulam

Gokulam is the place where Lord Krishnas magical days

Balagokulam is a program of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

mnaejv< mat tuLyvegm!,

AyaM inaja: prao vaoit gaNanaa laGaucaotsaama\ |

maEsIjI kI Aan hme , Aage bFae AaEr s<g s<g clae.

xrm kI r]a kre<ge hm, khe<ge vNde matrm.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Yugadi (Varsha Pratipada)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Stories of Dr. Hedgewar

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

there is no transporation. We will have to wait until tomorrow morning. Doctorji

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

The Hindu Calendar (Panchang)

Diwas or Din (Day)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Name of Day (Planet)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

-: Exercise :Match the Pairs

4) Day of the Saptah

6) Beginning of New Age

7) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

Fill up the blanks

Yugadi is also called as _______________.

One nimesha is ___________ seconds.

Kaartika is the name of ____________.

b) 0.67 seconds c) 0.1778 seconds

Doctorji died on ______________ (this day).

___________ and ___________ are two halves of the Mas (Month).

Swayamsevaks are Sangha _______________.

___________ is one of the 7 days of the Saptah.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

What is the meaning of Vande Mataram?

List any 4 months of the Hindu Calendar.

Describe the story of Keshav (Doctorji) that happened in the school.

List three most popular eras that Hindus have.

List any two events that happened on Yugadi.

Write rst two lines of the Shloka.

Write any two lines of the Geet

Questions for Research

What is meant by aadhik mas in the Hindu Calendar?

What is meant by Yuga in the Hindu Calendar? What are they?

Where and when did Keshav (Doctorji) born?

On what day Doctorji started RSS?

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

Art of Story Telling

Have a smiling face.

Use examples from their day-to-day life to make it more interesting.

You can use some pictures to show them.

kavyaSaas~ivanaao d o n a kalaao gacCit QaImatama\ |

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

maEsIjI kI Aan hme , Aage bFae AaEr s<g s<g clae.

xrm kI r]a kre<ge hm, khe<ge vNde matrm.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)

_ and _ are two halves of the Mas (Month).