On Sunday, July 22nd the Pt. Ram Hardowar Sanskriti Scholarship Awards were given to several youths during the graduation ceremony of Shri Surya Narayan Mandir’s 19th Annual Youth Camp. These awards are given on an annual basis to deserving youths who show promise and interest in music (Vocal & Harmonium), Tabla, and other traditional Indian instruments such as the Basuri. In addition, two awards were given to youths based on economic need, so that they can purchase school uniforms and necessary supplies for the upcoming school year. In total $2880 dollars were awarded by Surya Veer Gurukulam in the form of the Pt. Ram Hardowar Scholarship Awards to the children of our community, and an additional $600 dollars is slated to be given to deserving youths who attend Surya Mandir (Florida).
Pt. Ram presenting a Scholarship Award to Amisha Tewari to help with her fees as she pursues the art of playing the Basuri.
Surya Veer Gurukulam is comprised of Guruji (Pt. Ram), Guruma (Radhaji), and their chelas. It was founded on the auspicious day of Guru Purnima in 2009 to promote the authentic teachings and values of Sanatan Dharma, our Culture, and to help foster the spiritual and academic growth and development of the Hindu youths in the community. Over the years the Gurukulam has given over $ 22,000 dollars in the form of Scholarship awards, of which $10,000 was given on 7/31/2011 towards Surya Sanskriti Kendra.
Pt. Ram presenting an award to Ganesh Dayal and brothers to be used for school uniforms and supplies.
Initially the Gurukulam was funded solely by our Guruji (Pt. Ram) from the Dakshinas and other monetary gifts that he received by conducting Poojas, Yagnas, etc. Today, Panditji continues to generously donate to the fund, and the Gurukulam supplements these funds through various activities such as cultural shows, dinners, a yearly walk-a-thon, etc. All proceeds from the funds go directly to deserving youths in the form of scholarships. These scholarships are provided so they can pursue their studies in Sanatan Dharma, the various Classical Indian Arts such as Music & Harmonium, Tabla, Dance, and also Photography. It should be noted that these funds are separate and distinct from Surya Mandir Donations and Guruji continues to fund it through his Dakshinas.
The Gurukulam would like to thank our Guruji , Pt. Ram Hardowar for setting an exemplary example for his Chelas to follow through his Selfless Seva and Dhyanam. The Gurukulam also recognizes the tremendous contributions of the members and devotes of Surya Mandir, our families and friends, as well as the general public who participated in our various fundraising activities. We look forward to your continued support during our upcoming events.