Radha Madhav Society Youth Camp
Enthusiastic children learn
Hindu Cultural & Spiritual Values
Radha Madhav Society hosted its second Summer Hindu Youth Camp
from June 27 – July 4, 2009 at the group camp in Indian State
Springs Park near Atlanta, Georgia. The main focus of this camp
was to impart to the Hindu kids growing up in North America
salient information about Hindu religion and culture aimed at
developing the spiritual side of their personality.
Even though this was only the second such camp, the response was
overwhelming. The registration had to be closed a month in
advance as there was an unanticipated rush for registration.
About 50 children attended the camp accompanied by their
parents/families.
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Children were divided into two age groups: 5-9 years and 10-15
years. Age-appropriate programs were designed for them. In this
week long camp, the children avidly learned the basics of
Hinduism, Yoga, Arts & Crafts, Hindi, oriental musical
instruments (dholak, harmonium, manjeera), life story of great
Hindu saints (Prahlad and Dhruv), dancing (garba), traditional
games (kho-kho, pitthu, cricket) etc. in a fun-filled
environment.
They also celebrated simulated Hindu festivals (Janamashtami,
Holi, Shivratri, Navratri and Guru Poornima), went on nature
walks, enjoyed a picnic and staged a cultural program at the end
of the camp. Older children had the opportunity to discuss with
Didi Ji the dichotomy they face growing up amidst two vastly
different cultures. The children were taught how they should
handle this dilemma from a spiritual perspective. While children
were attending various classes, parents were engrossed in
Satsang with Didi Ji, learning how to inculcate spiritual
discipline in their children.
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At the end of an eventful week, all participants - children and
parents alike – could not reconcile to the fact the camp has
ended. The emotional bondage the camp attendees developed over
one short week was truly remarkable.
Positive feedback information, from the parents and the children
who attended the camp, have been pouring in. The children,
parents, youth counselors and volunteers have forged deep ties
of friendships and have promised to stay in touch with one
other.
The radiant smiles on the faces of the children have been the
biggest reward for the organizers. The children have promised to
come back next year in greater numbers. Nothing succeeds like
success - the next year's camp is expected to be a greater and
grander success!
http://www.radhamadhavsociety.org |
