Why is Surya Veer Sang (SVS) important?
The United States, particularly New York, is referred to as a cultural melting pot. Each cultural /religious group adds to the uniqueness and cultural mosaic of the City. While this is so, each group is free to maintain/preserve their own cultural identity. It is our strong conviction that the great teachings of Hindu Dharma can lend tremendously to building a greater United States, not through proselytism (conversion) but by Hindus just being comfortable and confident Hindus living together with others with mutual respect.
Knowledge is Confidence! The objective of SVS is to educate Hindus to build that confident Hindu Identity and be model Americans.
Our births in Hindu homes are not by chance! We are harmonious with the cosmic principles when we become knowledgeable insiders of our own culture rather than when we become the perfect outsiders of other cultures.
Where and when are SVS classes held?
Fridays 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm at Shri Surya Narayan Mandir (SSNM) 92-17 172 Street, Jamaica NY 11433. Visit us online or get a copy of the mandir’s calendar for semesters’ opening and closing dates. SVS Classes often falls around the New York Public Schools semesters’ dates.
What are the criteria for admission?
A desire to learn more about Hinduism is expected. Parents should ensure that students are punctual, encourage discussions at home about the materials learned and verify that all given homework is completed.
Is there an age requirement?
No one is denied! We do recommend from age 5 and up. However, children younger can be accepted in the Level I class with increased parental presence.
Is there a tuition fee?
There are no fees for the classes. Instructors volunteer their time and knowledge. Your donations will help to cover the cost of using the utilities of the mandir. You can also help with printing class materials, organizing or assisting with graduation, end of semester gatherings and other class and mandir seva activities. See your child’s instructor for details.
Is there a structured syllabus?
Yes. Every year the instructors work towards streamlining and bettering the curriculum. The aim is to present Hinduism to SVS students the same way they are exposed to secular education.
Can parents join the classes?
We encourage parents to join the classes. Parents, unlike SVS students, have the freedom to be in any of the four classes.
There have been parents that chose to be class cohorts with the SVS students. These parents climb the Levels progressively in the way SVS faculty structured the program to work. These parents have found this approach quite rewarding.
How long is one Level?
Each Level is two years long. SVS students are not exposed to the same topic over their two years stay at their Level unless they repeat that Level.
Are there required books?
Only for the Level IV class. Books can be obtained from the SSNM bookstore at very minimal costs. The bookstore is on the mandir’s premises.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Students must wear SSNM T-Shirts. These T-Shirts are available at SSNM bookstore at very minimal costs. The other alternative is simple Hindu clothing.
I want to join, what do I do?
Do one of the following and a faculty member will reach out to you:
- Bring your child to the Mandir and get enrolled
- Complete the online registration form @ www.shrisuryanarayanmandir.org.
Questions: Contact ptramhardowar@gmail.com