It was 7.45AM when we arrived at Chinmaya Sannidhi (Ashram) on 8th July, 2008. It was filled with families swarming in and out registering their children for the Holiday Program running for three days (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday). This is just what parents were looking forward to. For the parents three memorable days without the kids, and for kids… meeting up with old friends and a gateway to the Spiritual world.

The camp/holiday program run by the Chinmaya Mission is more than a day care it is where you gain knowledge and devotion for the Hindu Gods, the teachings from the scriptures and traditions. We kids were split into two groups. The bigger kids (Age: 9-12 yrs) went to Brni Sujataji’s classes and the little kids (Age: 5-8 yrs) went to Br Gopalji’s classes. Our topic this time was 10 Avatars (Dashavatar) of Lord Vishnu.

On Tuesday we learnt about 4 avatars out of 10 of Lord Vishnu the maintainer of the universe. We were told stories of the avatars and their purpose of coming to earth and what did they teach. We also had an excellent workshop on listening skills/Trust with Uncle Cheenu where we learnt what the different types of listening, what is being trustworthy mean etc and we played different games to understand how important this was to us in our life. We were also lucky enough to have a very fun Arts & Crafts session with Anita Aunty. We also had the opportunity to get into smaller groups and discuss about the avatars with our group sevaks/sevikas. During the day we were served with a delicious, mouth watering recess and tea, thanks to Varsha aunty and the dedicated kitchen sevikas.

On Wedensday we continued with the Avatars. The little kids were getting opportunities to watch videos of each avatar as well. They first learnt about the avatar, the wisdom given by the avatar and then Gopalji showed them the video in relation to the avatar. They were lucky. They also played lots of games and had practical demonstrations eg. how the churning of the ocean took place etc.

We were to have Olympics but it rained out, so we were able to watch the leelas of Lord Krishna. Again afternoon tea was tasty, this was made by our Shubangi didi. She is amazing.

On Thursday we summed up by finishing all the avatars and completed our arts & crafts. We learnt that the Lord takes avatar (incarnation) to help us and he is ever with us in our hearts. If we call out with all love, he will guide us from within. He may also send someone to help us externally. Therefore NEVER FEAR! THE LORD IS WITH US ALWAYS!

Summing up We would like to thank the kind-hearted people in-charge. Many thanks to Br Gopalji for coordinating the Holiday Program. Also to Br Gopalji and Brni Sujataji for teaching us. Also thanks to the lovely aunties, sevaks and sevikas for the wonderful food fit for a king, Worshops, Yogas and Bhajans. Thanks to the leaders for taking care of us kids! It must have been hard work! Last but not the least, a huge thanks to the kids who were so obedient and wonderful.

Thanks again to everyone! Looking forward to the October residential camp on Lord Muruga.

Photo gallery can be accessed here.