Apr 22, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents ! 

We started the class by chanting three Om's, Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka . Next , chanted all daily prayers and Rama's Shlokas .

Story time : 

Fully aware that he was going to meet his death, Ravana, ten heads fiercely blazing, enters the battlefield. His remaining rakshasa army is pursued by Lord Rama's arrows. It seemed like there were a thousand Lord Ramas, attacking the rakshasas from all sides. Pushing his way through the vaanara army, Ravana sought out Lord Rama for battle. They battled, using one after another several powerful and divine astras. The devas watched from above as Lord Rama cut off Ravana's heads one after another. But strangely, a new one emerged to take the place of the cut off heads. Seeing Lord Rama's confusion, Indra sent his divine chariot along with charioteer Maatali. Lord Rama thanked the devas and got on the chariot to resume battle. Even after Lord Rama wounded every limb of his body, Ravana still looked proud and roared with laughter. Maatali whispered to Lord Rama to use the Agastya astra. Immediately Lord Rama aimed the arrow at Ravana's chest, the seat of all his power. The arrow pierced Ravana, who fell with a crash that shook the entire world. Ravana had payed the price for his bad actions. Good had won over evil, and the vaanara army rejoiced, shouting "Jai Shri Rama!". Scented flowers poured down on Lord Rama from the heavens, rishis chanted, gandharvas played music and Mother Earth was relieved of her burden. Meanwhile Vibhishana was sad at the death of his brother. Lord Rama consoled him, saying Ravana died a brave death and would have a place in warrior heaven. After performing Ravana's last rites, Vibhishana was crowned the king of Lanka. Next Hanuman was sent to fetch Sita from ashoka vatika. On seeing the rakshasis guarding Sita, Hanuman wanted to kill them. Sita stopped him saying it was not their fault to follow orders of their king. We spoke about Sita's compassion even towards those who had treated her badly.  Bathed and dressed Sita appeared before Lord Rama, who stood stern and straight not taking any step to console his wife. Lord Rama declared that he had done his duty as a kshatriya, but could not take her back and Sita was free to go wherever she pleased. Shocked and insulted by this, Sita ordered Lakshmana to kindle a fire. Everyone watched in horror as Sita entered the fire, but Sita was calm. The fire did not harm her and Agni deva himself emerged. He presented Sita to Lord Rama saying she was pure in her devotion to the Lord. Lord Rama smiled at Sita as he took her hand. Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana flew back on the pushpaka vimana as they had completed their exile. Word was sent to Ayodhya about Lord Rama's return after fourteen years and the people decorated the city with lamps and flowers. Bharata welcomed Lord Rama and gave him back the powers of the kingdom. The three queen mothers and Guru Vasishta blessed Lord Rama. Lord Rama was dressed in coronation robes and Sita in her queenly garments. They were seated on the throne and Lord Rama crowned king. Vedic mantras were chanted and holy water sprinkled. Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrugna stood nearby. Sita gave Hanuman a pearl necklace and he took Lord Rama's blessing. The scene was just like Bhagwan Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi appearing on earth to bless their devotees. Rama Rajya, the age of supreme contentment and goodness began.  We talked about qualities of Rama  from beginning of the story to the end , how he was calm , respectful with elders  , loving with brothers , friends and he was nice with enemies too .  We concluded the Ramayana story  saying " Jai Shri Ram " , " Jai Shri Ram " . 

Regards ,

Jayashree and Uma 

Mar 25, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi ,  " Kara Charana Krutam va " . Kids are learning new  Rama shloka    "Neelam bhuja shyamala komalangam "  and a bhajan with actions " Kaathe bhi Ram kaho " . 

Story time : 

The vaanaras who went to south returned to Kishkinda. Delighted at the success of their mission, they began celebrating. They ate, drank and played in happiness. When King Sugriva heard of this, he sent for them immediately. Soon Hanuman, Jambavan led the vaanaras before Sugriva and Lord Rama, who welcomed them eagerly. When Lord Rama asked them what happened, each of the vaanaras began talking about their own exploits. Jambavan silenced them all and asked Hanuman to narrate the story. We discussed how humble Hanuman did not brag inspite of being the person solely responsible for the success of the mission. Hanuman prostrated before Lord Rama and told him about all that happened. He then presented Lord Rama with Sita's jewel and conveyed her message. Everyone were wonderstruck at Hanuman's almost impossible achievements. Lord Rama overwhelmed with emotion hugged Hanuman and thanked him. We spoke about how Hanuman felt all his insults, pain and suffering melt away when Bhagwan touched him and blessed him. Lord Rama asked King Sugriva to order the vaanara army to begin the march towards Lanka. Soon they reached the seashore and set up camp. Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva, Hanuman and few powerful vaanaras sat down to discuss a plan to cross the mighty ocean to Lanka. Meanwhile back in Lanka, the rakshasas were terrified at the destruction caused by Hanuman. Ravana called for his council of ministers to discuss the eminent war. He asked them for their advise to deal with the vaanara army.  His rakshasa generals pledged to finish off Lord Rama and the vaanara army. His ministers praised Ravana's strength and valor, telling him that he would be victorious. We discussed how the evil Ravana believed the false praise because he was too proud to realise his mistakes. However, Vibhishana, Ravana's younger brother advised him to right the great wrong committed. He asked Ravana to return Sita and ask Lord Rama's forgiveness. Vibhishana wanted peace not war. Ravana however chose to ignore the good counsel. Instead Ravana insulted Vibhishana, calling him a traitor for taking the side of the enemy. Vibishana left Ravana's court and flew to Lord Rama's encampment and sought refuge there.  

 He flew across the ocean with four of his faithful rakshasas. When the vaanara army saw the rakshasas they got out their weapons and prepared for battle. In a calm manner, Vibhishana introduced himself, told them his story and asked to meet Lord Rama. Sugriva took the message to Lord Rama and was very suspicious. He said the rakshasas always used tricks. He told Lord Rama to send the rakshasas away and avoid any risk. Lord Rama asked the vaanara leaders for advise and they all told him to turn Vibhishana away. Next Lord Rama turned to Hanuman. Hanuman spoke with reverence, saying Bhagawan is all knowing and who was he to give any advise. Hanuman said although Vibishana was a rakshasa, he was honest and openly came to seek Lord Rama. He did not approach stealthily and so could be trusted. Lord Rama agreed with Hanuman's wise council and agreed to meet Vibhishana. Sugriva was still doubtful and asked Lord Rama not to trust a man who has fought with his own brother. We discussed how Sugriva himself fought with Baali and yet Lord Rama accepted him as a friend. Lakshmana remembered Lord Rama and Bharata's brotherly love as a virtue. Lord Rama welcomed Vibhishana, who touched the Lord's feet. We discussed how Bhagawan will always grant protection to those who ask for it. Even though Vibhishana was the brother of his enemy, Lord Rama considered his Dharma to grant refuge because he asked for it. Vibhishana told them about the preparations for war in Lanka. Then Lord Rama looked to the ocean god for help in crossing to Lanka. After three days of praying, the ocean did not part to make way for the army to cross. Lord Rama lost his patience and asked for his bow and arrows. He aimed arrows at the waters and the sea creatures began to die. The ocean god rose up and begged Bhagawan to forgive him. He said that by parting the waters to make way for the army, he would be going against his nature to be filled with water. Instead, he offered a solution to reach Lanka. A vaanara named Nala, was the son of Vishwakarma the divine engineer. Nala could plan for a bridge across the ocean using trees and boulders. The ocean god promised to support this construction and hold it up. Lord Rama forgave the ocean god and made Nala the chief engineer. With shouts of "Jai Sri Ram!", the vaanara army immediately began uprooting trees, gathering boulders and throwing them into the water. Miraculously, everything floated and in just five days the bridge was completed . All the vaanaras reached sea shore of Lanka.  We paused the story , did pledge and ended class .

Sri Rama Navami is on April 10th and this year after a 2 year break we have the Akhanda Ramayan Parayan from April 9th to April 10th .

The Sita Rama Wedding part will be around 3.30-4.30 and the organizers would like our children to be dressed up as various Ramayana characters and come on stage at that time!

Please do sign up if you can and bring the children - it will be a nice experience .

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CXpnTg6cgbJFFHhWJYkKPMnpJ6_iBZpb6f3OYdpWePg/edit?usp=sharing 

Regards ,

Jayashree &Uma 

Mar 11, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi ,  " Kara Charana Krutam va " . All the kids practiced all shlokas for Shlokathon very well. 

Story time : 

As Hanuman searched through palaces, he saw many beautiful ladies dressed in fine clothes and jewelry. He even entered Ravana's grand bedchamber and saw many queens there. However, he knew that none of them could be Sita. Next he came to a beautiful garden with flower, fruit and ashoka trees. He saw a number of rakshasis guarding a lovely lady sitting under one of the trees. She wore simple clothes, was weeping and repeating the name "Rama". He had no difficulty in guessing that it was Sita. Just then, King Ravana approached Sita. He offered all the wealth and pleasures of the world to make her his queen. Sita put on a bold face and refused Ravana's offer. She then gives Ravana some advice. She tells him that it is still not too late to mend his ways and return her to Lord Rama. She also tells Ravana that if he repents for his mistake and apologizes,the benevolent Lord Rama will forgive Ravana. Furious Ravana gives her a warning that at the end of two months he would kill her if she did not change her mind . 

All this time, Hanuman was hiding on the tree above and decides he must deliver Lord Rama's message to Sita. So as to not frighten Sita, he begins narrating the story of Lord Rama in a sweet voice. The delighted Sita looks up to see a little monkey in the tree and asks who he was. As soon as Hanuman introduced himself, Sita is filled with doubt that it could be Ravana in disguise. Hanuman quickly presents her with Lord Rama's signet ring and shows her his true form. He asks her to sit on his shoulder, so he could take her immediately back to Lord Rama. Sita says that since it is the question of her honour, Lord Rama must vanquish Ravana and rescue Sita. She then gives Hanuman her wedding jewel as a token to Lord Rama and blesses him. Hanuman promises to bring back Lord Rama and Lakshmana soon and Sita is filled with renewed hope. 

Hanuman after meeting Sita, is determined to strike terror into Ravana's heart. He became a fierce looking vaanara and roared to the heavens. He began eating fruits from the garden and destroying Ashoka Vatika. The frightened rakshasis reported to Ravana, who sent his guards to capture the mischievous monkey. Hanuman saw the approaching rakshasas and increasing his size, plucked trees. Flinging the trees like weapons he reduced the rakshasa army to dust. Next the powerful rakshasa, Jambumali, was sent to kill the vaanara. Hanuman roared "Long live Rama!" and seizing a pillar from a temple smashed the rakshasa. Next Ravana sent one of his sons, Aksha, who met the same fate. Enraged with sorrow, Ravana looked to his favorite son, Indrajit. Having defeated Indra himself, Indrajit had also performed severe tapas and won the Brahmastra. Hanuman faced Indrajit and after a fierce battle was struck by the Brahmastra. Bound and helpless, Hanuman was dragged to Ravana's court. The rakshasas insulted Hanuman and jeered at him. Hanuman did not break his bonds, but welcomed the opportunity to speak to Ravana and deliver Lord Rama's message. At the court, Ravana sat on his splendid throne with his eyes blazing with anger. He roared at the mere vaanara who had killed so many brave warriors. He demanded to know who Hanuman was and what was his purpose in Lanka. Hanuman stood tall and defiant, and introduced himself with dignity as Lord Rama's messenger. He told Ravana it was not too late to return Sita and ask Lord Rama's forgiveness. He reminded Ravana that once Lord Rama advances with his army, all of Lanka would be doomed. Hanuman asked Ravana to choose peace instead of war. This enraged Ravana, who ordered the vaanara to be killed. Vibheeshana, the wise younger brother of Ravana, immediately pointed out that it was a against the law to kill a peaceful messenger. Ravana decided to punish Hanuman by setting his tail on fire. The rakshasas began wrapping the tail with rags, but it began to grow. When it had grown to a considerable size, they dipped it in oil and set the tail on fire. Hanuman was paraded around the streets of Lanka and insulted by the rakshasas. The news reached Sita in Ashoka Vatika, who prayed to the Fire God, Agni, not to burn Hanuman. With Sita's chaste prayer along with the boon of being deathless and protected from all elements, Hanuman did not feel the heat. He felt it was time to teach the rakshasas another lesson. Shrinking in size, he got out of the bonds and escaped. Taking on his mighty form, Hanuman jumped from building to building, setting them on fire. With yells of Jai Shri Ram, Hanuman set Lanka ablaze and filled everyone's heart with terror. Soon he went to the seashore and put out the fire in his tail. Returning to Ashoka Vatika to make sure Sita was safe, Hanuman took her blessings and left Lanka to report to Lord Rama. 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Mar 4, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi , " Kara Charana Krutam va " . 

Story Time : 

Hanuman is ready to fly across the ocean and went on the mountain.

After flying for a while, he came across a mountain and heard a voice, " rest on me Hanuman, Rama is a good friend of mine" . Hanuman was in a rush to find Sita so he said, sorry, will take rest while going back . After going for a while, a big monster came up from water and want Hanuman to go inside its mouth but Hanuman became a small spec and went inside her mouth and came out and said , her wish got fulfilled. She replied that she was testing him , and blessed him with a success in his search.

Another Raaksasi came out from water and now Hanuman became big and burst from its mouth and killed raaksasi and started again his journey to Lanka.  

The brave Hanuman has overcame great obstacles in his flight across the ocean. His great strength and quick thinking brought him safely to the golden shores of Lanka. Here Hanuman pauses to survey the island and marvels at the efficiently planned city. Hanuman knows that crossing the ocean is only the first step. He must be careful not to make any mistakes or be careless. First he needed to determine that Sita was alive. Hanuman waited for nightfall and shrunk to the size of a little monkey. He began prowling around the city wall and was immediately stopped by a fierce rakshasi. He dealt a blow to her jaw and the rakshasi fell. She remembered the prophesy that when a monkey's blow would make her fall, the end of rakshasa race would not be far. She let Hanuman enter the city. we paused the story  , kids played some games from spirit day and ended class with Pledge.  

Regards ,

Jayashree and Uma 

Feb 25, 2022 - Grade 1 ( Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi , " Kara Charana Krutam va " .  Kids sang bhajans for Didi ' s . 

Story : 

This week JCHYK ( highschoolers )  guests  came to  teach . Kids were excited to talk with DiDi' s 😊 and listen the story . 

In the story ,Yashwanti didi talked about how Sugriva divided 

Vanaras into 4 groups ,sent to East,West,North and south in search of Sita Mata .Hanuman, Jambavan,Angada ,Nila were sent to south as a powerful and smart team, as Jatayu mentioned that Ravana went to south .Rama was confident in Hanuman that he will be able to search Sita and get good news,so Rama gave his Ring to Hanuman to show it to Sita , as he was Rama's messenger .

Vanaras scattered to four directions and searched for Sita. Unfortunately, brave Vanaras who went to east,west ,north returned within a month in failure to find Sita.Now,all hopes were on the group who went to south.

Vanaras while searching ,entered into cave which has beautiful golden trees with emerald leaves and rubies hung as fruits. They came across a tapasvini named Svayamprabha . When she asked the reason for them in cave ,hanuman told the whole story and how they are in search of Sita. She said that the cave was given by Indra to her friend Hema . They cannot go out of cave by themselves. If they all close their eyes,she will get them out with her powers .

They followed her instructions and by the time they opened their eyes, they were on sea-shore and could see only the ocean for miles far. All members of group were confused and want to return back to Kishkindha . But wise Hanuman said, we are here to fulfill the mission of Ramachandra , so let us intensify the search and made a plan. 

Now , Mira didi explained the story  this group was watched by a old Vulture from the nearly hill who was hungry and want to feast on Vanaras. But he heard them talking about how Rama has to leave kingdom, has to live in forest with Sita and Lakshmana. How, Cruel Ravana kidnapped Sita and how Jatayu couldn't rescue sita and died in struggle. When old Vulture heard the name Jatayu .

He came down and asked , who are they and did they talk about Jatayu and his death . Did Ravana killed him?

This old Vulture, Sampaati, told the whole story ,that he and Jatayu are brothers and sons of Aruna, god of dawn. When they were young, had a race that who can fly higher. How ,he saved Jatayu's wings from burning heat of sun and how he lost his wings and fell on that mountain and from then he lost Jatayu. Vanaras calmed him and told story of Rama . Vanaras asked Sampaati if he knew about Ravana. Sampaati said he saw raksasa Ravana speeding across the sky and taking a tearful lady .Sampaati being old he can see far and see Lanka, and see Sita sitting in a garden surrounded by scary raksasas. All Vanaras were happy that they came to know about Sita and she is alive . Now,they are thinking how to go there and who is the right one. Angadha was asking everyone to estimate there capacity to leap . Some said 50 yojanas ,60,80 yojanas. Jambavan said 80 as he is old . Hanuman was silently sitting. Jambavan went to Hanuman and said that he is strong and wise leader of their group and he is son of Vayu. So he has that speed in him. When Jambavan praised Hanuman and told his strength. Hanuman's body expanded and he grew tall and tall like a mountain.

Hanuman is ready to fly across the ocean and went on the mountain. We paused the story and didi's also played hang man game  , kids enjoyed the game  . Then , we went to 7th grade monthly program. 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Feb 4, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi , " Kara Charana Krutam va "   and  bhajans on Ganesha , Atama Rama and Sharade  . Some kids are able to do all shlokas and bhajan .  Parents make them  practice all shlokas and bhajan.  

Story time : 

The children shared a quick recap of the Ramayana story . As the brothers approach Rishyamukha Hill they are seen by Sugreeva and his faithful followers. Growing suspicious that they were spies, Sugreeva sends his wise minister Hanuman to find out their purpose. Hanuman disguises himself as a brahmin and approaches the brothers. He offers his pranams to them and asks them what they were doing in the forest. Lord Rama introduces himself and explains the sad circumstances that had them looking for King Sugreeva. Upon hearing Lord Rama's name, Hanuman immediately regains his vaanara form. Delighted at seeing Bhagawan, Hanuman gave them all the information about himself. Lord Rama noticed that inspite of being a vaanara, Hanuman had an eloquence and bearing of a wise man. Hanuman placed the brothers on both his shoulders and brought them before King Sugreeva. On learning that they were the royal sons of King Dasharata, Sugreeva warmly welcomed  them. This was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. 

Sugreeva narrates the story of his brother, Vaali, the king of the vaanaras. Vaali was brave and immensely strong. Dundubhi, a rakshasa, challenged Vaali to a fight. Vaali killed him and flung his body many miles away. Few drops of blood fell on Rishi Matanga, who cursed that Vaali would meet his death on Rishyamukha mountain. Dundubhi's brother Mayavi, to avenge his brother, challenged Baali to a fight. Midway during the fight Mayavi ran into a cave, followed by Baali, who asked Sugreeva to guard the entrance. After a while, Sugriva hears a scream and sees blood come out of the cave. Presuming that Vaali was dead, Sugriva seals the cave with a large boulder to prevent Mayavi from coming out. Sugriva returns to Kishkinda with the sad news and is crowned the new king. A few days later, Vaali turns up and is furious to see Sugriva on the throne. He banishes Sugriva and his followers from Kishkinda. Sugiva decides to reside in Rishyamukha mountain, knowing that Vaali would never set foot there. We discussed the difference between Lord Rama and Bharata's brotherly love versus Baali and Sugiva's enemity. We spoke about how Lord Rama gave up the throne for Bharata and how Bharata out of respecct refused to become king of Ayodhya. In contrast, Baali's haste, his anger and Sugriva's desire for the throne caused the strife between them. Sugriva told Lord Rama that a few vaanaras saw a rakshasa carrying a lady flying across the sky. The lady was crying for help and threw a bundle down. Sugriva presented the bundle to Lord Rama, who recognized Sita's jewels in it. Sugriva promised to help find Sita and Lord Rama promised to help Sugriva get back his throne. The next day Sugriva challenged Baali to a duel, while Lord Rama hid behind a tree. As the brothers fought, Lord Rama could not tell them apart. Sugriva runs away to save his life and Lord Rama explains why he could not kill Baali. The following day, Sugriva wears a garland and challenges Vaali to fight again. This time Lord Rama has no problem identifying Baali and kills him with a well aimed arrow. Victorious Sugriva returns to Kishkinda and is crowned king of the vaanaras. We spoke about how Lord Rama kept his word and helped his friend . Now,  We paused the story  ,  did the pledge and ended the class . 

Regards ,

Jayashree and Uma 

Jan 28, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi and two bhajans on Ganesha and Sharade . Children started to learn new shloka " Kara Charana Krutam vaa " . Some kids are able to do all shlokas and bhajan. Kids who are not able to chant parents make them  practice all shlokas. 

Story time : 

It is a sad day at Panchavati when Lord Rama and Lakshmana return to the ashram and Sita is missing. Lord Rama breaks down into tears, but as he realizes the trick played on him, the sorrow turns to anger. He picks up his weapons and swears to destroy everything. Lakshmana calms him down, reminding him that it is not fair to punish everyone for one person's mistake. The brothers decide to look for the evil rakshasa responsible and to rescue Sita. They follow footprints, broken parts of a chariot and come upon the injured Jataayu. The bird is fast approaching death, but tells Lord Rama all that had occurred. He tells Lord Rama that Ravana took Sita towards the south. Jataayu asks forgiveness for not being able to help Sita. Lord Rama pacifies the eagle king, who breathes his last. Lord Rama and Lakshmana resume their search southward for Sita. As they passed through the forest, they are suddenly seized by a creature. It had no legs or head, only a mouth with sharp teeth in the stomach and one red eye. It had two arms to capture prey. This was the monster, Kabandha, who was cursed for frightening a rishi to remain in a grotesque form. In a second, both brothers drew their swords and chopped the arms away. Kabandha was liberated from his curse and advised the brothers to go to the vaanara King Sugreeva. They would find Sugreeva and his army on Rishyamukha Hill near the river Pampa and he could help find Sita. 

Following the advice of Kabandha, Lord Rama and Lakshmana follow the river Pampa and reach the ashram of Sage Matanga. They are welcomed by an old tapasvini, Shabari, who was Rishi Matanga's disciple. Shabari has been patiently waiting several years for the arrival of Lord Rama. Everyday she would clean the ashram and collect berries for Lord Rama. Shabari would taste the fruit and only pick the sweetest ones. Upon Lord Rama's arrival, Shabari offers him these bitten fruit. Lakshmana refuses to eat them, but Lord Rama enjoys them. We spoke about how Bhagawan only sees the love and devotion in Shabari's action. Refreshed after their rest, Lord Rama and Lakshmana left Shabari and continued towards Rishyamukha Hill .

We paused the Ramayana story here and joined 8th grade monthly program Zoom . 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Jan 21, 2022 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents !

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , Gangecha Yamune chaiyva , SriRama Raamethi and two bhajans on Ganesha and Sharade . Kids are doing great with all bhajans and Shlokas !!

Story Time : 

 Bala Ramayana story continued with Maricha as a golden deer catching Sita's attention and she wants it as her pet. Rama agrees to capture it for her and asks Lakshmana to guard Sita. He then follows the deer deep into the forest. In the forest Rama realizes the deer is not an ordinary one. He shoots it with his arrow and Maricha emerges. Before dying he diguises his voice as Rama and calls out to Lakshmana for help . Sita and Lakshmana are waiting for Rama's return, when they hear his voice call out for help from the forest. Sita is very worried and sends Lakshmana to help his brother. Reluctantly Lakshmana leaves after warning Sita to stay in the ashram and not talk to strangers. Ravana in disguise as a sadhu comes to the ashram and begs Sita for food. She steps out to give the bhiksha and is carried away forcefully.  Ravana's trick had worked and he took away Sita in his flying chariot. However, brave Jatayu confronts them and fights to rescue Sita. Ravana cuts off the wings, and Jatayu falls down hurt. Ravana reaches Lanka with Sita. He places her under guard with a group of rakshasis in Ashoka Vatika. He gives her one year to consider becoming his queen or be killed. 

We paused the story for this week . Then , kids all played their favorite games online and we ended the class with Pledge. 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Dec 17, 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om ! Parents , 

Happy New Year! We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , "Gangecha Yamune chaiyva" ,Brahmarpanam Brahma havir " and two bhajans on Ganesha and Sharade . We were  learning a bhajan from past two to three weeks  " Atma Rama Ananda Ramana" - most of the kids are singing very well . Please make the kids practice the shlokas and bhajans at home as well. Sharing the bhajan script and tune at the bottom of this email. We reviewed two more shlokas from Geeta Chapter 2. We have now covered until verse 46. 

We watched a short video and then played games in the last class . First , we watched the Aranya Kandam video. Then we had a gameshow by splitting the kids into 2 groups - and they were all very excited and everyone participated. We then left to watch the 9th grade monthly program.

Please encourage all of them to participate in the Storytelling contest this year on Jan 29th. You can register them at bit.ly/Storytelling22. Please check out all other House Events including Art and Shlokathon at www.chinmayavrindavan.org/HouseEvents. 

To practice Geeta verses at home, please use Swamiji's recording - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwv-WSJSokEORu2iEsVanXQhQHOoiiQIy . We start from verse 39 this year. 

Click here to listen to Vinayaka Vinayaka Bhajan.

Click here to listen to Sharade Sharade Bhajan.

Click here to listen to Atma Rama Bhajan.

Looking forward to seeing all the kids tomorrow after the holiday! 

Warm Regards,
Jayashree & Uma

Dec 10, 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om ! Parents ,  

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , "Gangecha Yamune chaiyva"  and two bhajans on Ganesha and Sharade . Children are learning new sloka "Brahmarpanam Brahma havir " .

Story : 

The children took turns narrating a quick recap of the story. Then we continued with the story, 

Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana spent ten years visiting sages and seeking their blessings in the Dandaka forest. Moving from ashrama to ashrama, Lord Rama and Lakshmana restore peace by destroying rakshasas who troubled the rishis. However, Sita does not like them carrying weapons and requests Lord Rama to give up the violence. Lord Rama explains to her that the foremost dharma or duty of a Kshatriya is to protect . He reminds her that by defeating evil rakshasas he is protecting the good rishis. Soon they arrive at Sage Agastya's ashrama. Sage Agastya was an authority on Vedic scriptures and a master of military tactics. He is said to have lowered the Vindhya mountain which separated northern and southern parts of India. There is another story depicting how great Sage Agastya was. Two rakshasa brothers, Vataapi and Ilvala, aimed to destroy all the rishis. Vataapi had a boon from Lord Brahmaji that no matter how may pieces his body was cut up, it could be joined back together again. Ilvala would invite a rishi for a meal, cut up Vaatapi to prepare the meal, and serve it to the rishi. After the meal Ilvala would cry out, "Vaatapi come out." and Vaatapi would step out tearing open the rishi. Many unsuspecting rishis were cruelly killed in this manner. One day it was Sage Agastya who got Ilvala's invitation for a meal. When the meal was over, Sage Agastya digested Vaatapi and Ilvala could not call him out. The enraged Ilvala attacked Sage Agastya but was reduced to ashes by the rishi's powerful gaze. When Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana arrive at his ashrama, Sage Agastya gives them a warm welcome. He then advises them to spend the rest of the exile in nearby Panchavati. The sage gives Lord Rama the Vishnu bow, quivers of arrows and two swords. Arriving at the beautiful Panchavati, they are chose a place with abundant fruits and roots. They see a huge vulture on a nearby tree. The bird is, Jatayu, a relative of Garuda who is Lord Vishnu's vehicle. Jatayu is a friend of King Dasharata and promises to protect Sita. Soon Lakshmana builds a little cottage on the banks of the river Godavari. One day they were approached by a heavily built, ugly woman, who was dressed in royal garments. She was Soorpanakha, and introduced herself as Ravana's sister and daughter of the famous Sage Vishrava. Lord Rama introduced himself, Sita and Lakshmana. Soorpanakha was immediately smitten by him and asked him to marry her. Lord Rama explained that he was already married and that maybe Lakshmana would be a better match for her. Soorpanakha approaches Lakshmana who immediately rejects her. When the amused Sita laughs at Soorpanakha, the angry rakshasi lunges at her. But Lakshmana, in a split second, draws his sword and cuts off Soorpanakha's nose and ears. Howling with pain and terror, Soorpanakha runs away into the forest. We paused the story here then did pledge and ended the class .

See you all on Friday at 7pm !! 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Dec 3 , 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om ! Parents ,  

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . Next , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi , "Gangecha Yamune chaiyva"  and two bhajans on Ganesha and Sharade . Kids almost memorized all and they like singing them !!

Story Time : 

We talked  about the reunion of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrugna in Chitrakoota. Their mothers as well as the people of Ayodhya were present at this reunion and pleaded Bharata to allow Rama to return to Ayodhya. Finally, Bharata was convinced by Rama to let him fulfil his dharma and took Rama's sandals as a symbol of his rightful place on the throne. Bharata oversaw Ayodhya as he awaited for Rama's return. After Bharata and the people of Ayodhya went back to their homes, Rama couldn't bare staying in Chitrakoota because he missed his brothers and his people, remembering of all the memories that occurred in this town. 

So, Rama, Lakshamana, and Sita decided to leave Chitrakoota and travelled deeper into the Dandaka forest. They proceeded to the hermitage of Rishi Atri and his wife Anasuuya, who welcomed them and allowed them to stay for the night. The next day, the brothers and Sita took Rishi Atri's blessings and traveled further into the forest after enquiring about a suitable location to build their own ashram. As they entered deeper into the forest, which was a very fearsome part of Dandaka, they came across a Rakshasa named Viraadha who had four lions heads, three tiger heads, and one elephant head strung on his spear. He reached out and grabbed Sita, carrying her on his shoulder. So, Rama and Lakshmana shot arrows and killed the Rakshasa, who transformed into a Gandharva.  

See you all on Friday at 7pm !! 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Nov 12, 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om ! Parents , 

We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya shloka  . SNext , we chanted daily prayers Karaagre vasate, Samudra Vasane devi shlokas the class learnt a new shloka "Gangecha Yamune chaiyva" prayer ( My Prayers book pg.11) We discussed how there are important and holy rivers in India and we chant their names while taking our bath. The children need regular practice with these shlokas so they can memorise them faster. Please encourage them to chant everyday. Grade 1 is memorizing Verses 39 - 53 of the Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2 this year. We review 2 shlokas every class with our Swamiji and children must practice those at home . Please make them memorize Geeta . Kids are interested in Geeta and some of them already memorized few verses 👏👏 . We also recorded kids chanting verses  for house team points 😊

Story Time: 

Storytime started with a quick review and the children remembered names of most of the characters in the story so far! The newly weds arrive back in Ayodhya and are given a special welcome by everyone. King Dasharatha called his ministers and announced that he wanted to crown Prince Rama the heir to his throne. They all agreed it was the best decision and Sage Vasishta proposed the coronation to take place the very next day. Lord Rama was given the good news, which he received calmly with equanimity. The entire Ayodhya began preparations for the coronation. Queen Kaikeyi had a hunchback maid named Manthara. The evil woman, on hearing the news of Rama's coronation, immediately started poisoning the queen's mind. Kaikeyi, who initially received the news with happiness, soon became jealous of Kausalya and Rama. Manthara advised Kaikeyi to ask King Dasharatha for the boons that he had promised in the past. When the king came to Kaikeyi's palace, he found her crying and in distress. Dasharatha pacified her by saying he will do anything to make her happy again. Immediatlely, Kaikeyi reminded the king of his boons,and asked Bharata to be crowned the king. Next she asked Rama to be exiled to the Dandaka forest for 14 years. The helpless King Dasharatha, bound by his word, reluctantly agreed. Lord Rama was summoned and received the news just as calmy as before. He promised Queen Kaikeyi that he would help his father keep his word and leave to the forest immediately. King Dasharatha hearing this falls down with a broken heart. Lord Rama bows down to take their blessings and prepares to leave Ayodhya.

See you all Friday sharp 7 pm !! 

You can all find zoom link in the information our class whatsapp group. 

Regards ,

Jayashree & Uma 

Sept 24, 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents  ,


We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, followed by Vakrathunda Mahakaya. We helped everyone chant Sahana Vavathu - most of the kids from last year chanted very well! We taught the rest of them to chant individually.
This week we started a bhajan on Vinayaka and practiced clapping our hands in rhythm. They all liked it and took turns singing :-)  


Story :

We did a quick recap of the  bala Ramayanam story   and then continued king Dasharatha with advice of his Guru Vasishta performed the "putrakameshti yagna" and four princes were born. They were Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrugna.
The four princes are growing up from toddlers to teenagers. Under the guidance
of their Guru Sage Vasishta they learnt vedas, upanishads, archery and other arts of warfare. All four brothers excelled, but Rama outshone
the rest. He was the ideal son and a born leader. Rama and Lakshmana  had deeper affection for each other, while Bharata bonded closely with
Shatrugna. One day the powerful Sage Vishwamitra arrived at King Dasharatha's court.  Sage Vishwamitra was a brahmarishi so the king received him with reverence. After prostrating to the sage, King Dasharatha asks if there was
anything he could do for him he would gladly do it. Sage Vishwamitra was performing a special yagna, but the rakshasas Subahu and Mareecha
were disrupting the sacred ritual. He required Rama's help to protect the yagna as he was best qualified to deal with the powerful rakshasas. The king is shocked since Rama is not even sixteen years old, how could he fight terrible rakshasas. The king offers to go
with the rishi along with his army instead of Rama. Vishwamitra's anger flared when he heard the king go back on his word. Sage Vasishta
stepped in and advised the king to send Rama with the rishi. He reminded the king that by protecting the sage Rama will gain fame and
glory. He asks the king to send Lakshmana to protect Rama. King Dasharatha reluctantly agrees and the two princes leave Ayodhya with
Sage Vishwamitra . After walking sometime they reached Sarayu river and slept there for the night . In the morning , Guru Vasishta wakes up Rama singing " Suprabhatham " then we talked about the prayer.

We then played a game to review all the names from last week! They had fun. Some of them need a little help in figuring out how to play so it would be helpful if you can be around for a couple of weeks if they need help. Also please don't let them login using a phone! 

We then showed them Swamiji's message to children on why we should chant the  Bhagavad Gita and then watched a primer video where they learned to properly pronounce the Sanskrit alphabet and a few words from the second chapter. We will be teaching them verses from the 2nd chapter this year. 

You can watch Swamiji's message here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8cRDI4Cs4Q

We ended the class with Pledge !! We hope they all did their homework for last week - which was to tell their parents the story they heard in class! If not, please ask them to :-) 

Hope to see all the kids on Friday sharp 7 pm !! Please make sure they have their My Prayers book, the Balavihar Handbook, the Ramayana coloring book, the Likhita Japa notebook (in case you didn't pick up one, they can use any composition notebook), pencils and crayons.


Regards ,
Uma & Jayashree 

Sept 17, 2021 - Grade 1 (Friday)

Hari Om Parents,    Welcome to grade 1 Balavihar  !!  We started the class by chanting three Om's , Sahana Vavathu, and Vakrathunda Mahakaya . After that the teachers and kids introduced each other with a few facts like favorite activities , favorite TV shows , favorite God etc .   Then , kids watched a couple of videos about Ganesha and Krishna and played some ice breaker games . Our class  is very enthusiastic  !!    We started introduction part of Bala Ramayanam story , talked about lord Sri Rama 's trail in India map , how he traveled from north of India to South of India and then went back to Ayodhya, Dasharatha,  Ayodhya, and  about the nature , peacefulness in city. Though Dasharatha was big warrior and won three worlds he was not happy because he was not having kids . So , he goes to his guru Vasishta for the solution .  Then , he takes to his guru Rishyashringa . Sage Rishyasringa says don't worry you will have four sons soon , you need to do Putrakameshti Yagna  . We paused our story here for this week .  Then , we all connected to another zoom to attend Aarthi .    Parents ,  please talk with kids about Ayodhya  city , Dasharatha ,  guru Vasishta , Dasharatha 's wives .  We will review introductory lesson .     Thank you parents who all could make to greet and meet . I get to meet and talk with some kids and their parents.   Parents who could not come on greet and meet day , please get this year's  coloring book and get  My Prayers book  if kids doesn't have it .    See you all next Friday sharp at 7 pm . 

If you have not joined our class WhatsApp group pls use this link to join - https://chat.whatsapp.com/FdOSBBk6Z3HCpwBzDuiffV 

 Regards ,  Jayashree & Uma   

Welcome to Gr 1 - Friday Session

Please look out for regular updates from 

the teachers 

soon after the session starts.