Sunday, September 10, 2017 marked another successful Shri Surya Narayan Mandir (SSNM) Walkathon, where devotees of the mandir and members of the community joined us for an intense, gratifying 5-mile walk. The walk began in the courtyard of our mandir at 172nd street, where all the walkers gathered to sing the national anthems of India, Guyana, and America – honoring our long, rich, and diverse history as members of the Indo-Guyanese community. After a few words from our spiritual leader, Guruji Pandit Ram Hardowar, and a few words from officers of the 103rd precinct, who secured our walk, we set off on our journey.
The walk was 5 miles total in distance, we ventured down 172nd St. then along Hillside Ave., until finally turning onto Francis Lewis Blvd and completing our walk back to mandir on Jamaica Ave. With only one short water break, our group successfully completed the 5 miles in just 1 hour and 34 minutes. Our walk comprised of participants of all ages, ranging from 6 years old to 80 years old, who were all very proud to have accomplished such a task successfully and in high spirits.
The opportunity to walk has been a privilege and joy for many members of Shri Surya Narayan Mandir for many years now. As Guruji, Pt. Ram Hardowar, reminded us at the beginning of our walk, not only are we walking to remember our ancestors and the great sacrifices they made for us as well as the sacrifices of all those following the terrorist attack of 9/11, but also to remember those who were affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria.
We’d like to give a special thanks to the police officers of the 103rd precinct, who guided us along our walk and guaranteed our safety during the entire event.