Satsang Seva Journal

On 28 September 2024, the value education sessions held at Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar continued as the children of Grade 10 further delved into the concept of 'pause' as an important tool to help them 'let go' of their inhibitions and challenging circumstances. As the youngsters sat in a comforting circle, they shared their thoughts and concerns about their upcoming exams. Learning how to release their stress from body and mind, the children practised the Kashtha Takshanasana or the Woodchopper Pose Flow and participated in a brief meditation. The children of Grades 2 and 3 affirmed the positive impact of meditation on their ability to focus in class and achieve their goals during an engaging conversation on meditation. They learned of the significance of the Navaratri festival and expressed their excitement at participating in the Garba dance. Subsequently, on 5 October, the youngsters listened to stories about Goddess Saraswati and the importance of...

Since the reopening of the Mithanagar Municipal School at Goregaon in June 2024, Team Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) at Mumbai has conducted a series of well-planned activities, promoting the overall growth and holistic development of 50 children from Grades 4 to 7. Power of storytelling The first value education session on 25 June witnessed the narration of compelling stories by college-going volunteers who highlighted the themes of inner beauty, kindness, compassion, and respect for wise elders.   Back-to-school essentials In July, the children received notebooks, stationery, and sketching books as they continued to build on their academic and co-curricular activities, enabling their learning and growth in a phased manner. True inspirations During the subsequent sessions on 28 August and 28 September, the SSM volunteers facilitated insightful discussions on the theme of 'Dreams Come True' through biographical accounts of Neil Armstrong, the American astronaut, and Dr. APJ Abdul ...

A gamut of activities defined the value education sessions conducted by the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) volunteers for the children of Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya at Dahisar, Mumbai on 21 September 2024. The children of Grade 10 were introduced to the concept of pause in the hustle-bustle of their daily schedule through an activity that helped them to observe their breath. The technique of box breathing was also introduced to help them manage their emotions mindfully while a paper folding activity enhanced their ability to reinforce and recall important concepts.  A music session enlivened the session conducted for the children of Grades 3 and 4. Brimming with energy, the young participants learned to sing two short songs harmoniously as they uncovered the lyrical quality of the Sanskrit language. The themes encompassed an abiding love for cultural heritage and environmental stewardship, dwelling on the importance of plastic waste management.  To support the learning jour...

The value education sessions held on 14 September 2024 at the Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar unfolded a series of reflections encompassing authenticity in personal interactions and the promise of hope. Children of Grade 10 continued their self-introspection and explored their multifaceted roles of being children, siblings, friends, students, and young citizens in a dynamic environment while learning to communicate respectfully with their peers and elders alike. A short video clip of the Walk of Hope set to the song Chal Chalen was screened for the children of Grades 1-4, igniting the promise of hope and unity. Sharing their aspirations for the future, the young children expressed their emotions through sketches and heartfelt testimonies. Join our Satsang Seva Mission volunteers as they continue to support the learning journey of our young children. Please write to us at connect@satsang-foundation.org .

Building on the success of the value education sessions at the Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) volunteers at Mumbai launched the same learning paradigm on 31 August 2024 at the Mira Road branch. Starting with an invocation prayer, the volunteers broke the ice with games and creative activities for 30 children from Grades 1 to 4, setting the tone for mindful learning and fostering mutual respect.  Join our volunteers to help empower young minds with love and kindness. Please write to connect@satsang-foundation.org .

During the value education session organized by the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) volunteers on 24 August at Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar, an engaging conversation ensued with 22 bright youngsters of Grade 10.  Faced with the prospect of taking their final exams in a few months, the youngsters expressed their angst at having to deal with a roller-coaster of emotions while trying to balance their academic pursuits with leisure time.  Resuming from the previous session on emotional well-being, a candid sharing of personal anecdotes and emotional reactions helped them learn to assimilate, address, and express a gamut of emotions.  Food for thought for the next weekly session was elicited by way of piercing questions on the role of a teacher and respect accorded to the teacher. Help us support the learning journey of our youngsters. Volunteer with the Satsang Seva Mission. Please write to us at connect@satsang-foundation.org .

The learning journey of the children at Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar continues to ride the wave of compelling storytelling and insightful interactions during the Learning Sessions facilitated by Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) volunteers. Grade 10 children took the first steps towards being mindful of self-deprecatory thoughts and transforming them into positive affirmations through simple activities. The young ones of Grades 3 and 4 listened in rapt attention to the enchanting tale of the squirrel which earned its three, white stripes thanks to the graceful, compassionate caress of Lord Sri Rama during the construction of the Rama Setu to Lanka. Paying tribute to this divine act of kindness, the children made sketches of temples dedicated to Lord Sri Rama. Join our volunteers to help empower young minds with love and kindness. Please write to connect@satsang-foundation.org .

The prize distribution ceremony at Goregaon Mithanagar Municipal School celebrated the achievements of students in various extracurricular activities. Prizes were awarded for outstanding performances in essay writing, bookkeeping, and reviews on the "Walk of Hope" film. The students exhibited remarkable enthusiasm and active participation across all programs. The top three performers in the essay and review writing competitions were acknowledged for their exceptional work. Additionally, all students received recognition for their diligent bookkeeping efforts. Goregaon Mithanagar Municipal School remains committed to providing a supportive and enriching learning environment, focused on nurturing the growth and development of every student. To participate in the Satsang Seva Mission and support the learning journey of these bright youngsters, please write to connect@satsang-foundation.org .

With a spirit of collaboration and a focus on learning beyond textbooks, The Satsang Foundation (TSF), Mumbai Kendra volunteers brought a transformative experience to the Mithanagar Municipal School, Goregaon.  They skillfully steered the session away from rigid lectures and towards a warm, engaging conversation. Themes like determination, persistence, and personal development took root, captivating students across the classroom.  The interactive approach resonated deeply.  Students actively participated, their enthusiasm evident in thoughtful responses and inquisitive questions. The joy of learning extended further when one of the volunteers generously offered to review notebooks and conduct drawing lessons. The enthusiastic applause that followed was a heartwarming testament to the impact of her offer. The excitement continued to build as the principal announced upcoming drawing classes.  The students themselves highlighted the positive power of storytelling in the...

On February 17th 2024, twelve students at Vallabh Niketan Ashram embarked on a unique journey.Guided by volunteers from SSM Bengaluru, students brainstormed career aspirations and chose "businessman" as a starting point.Key business functions were explored: starting the company, hiring employees, manufacturing, marketing, and sales. Through this immersive experience, learners honed their English speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills amidst crucial business decisions. From market research to sales pitches, they grappled with ethical dilemmas, negotiated pricing, and strategized for success – all the while strengthening their grasp of the language. To participate in the Satsang Seva Mission and experience the joy of giving and sharing, please write to us at connect@satsang-foundation.org .

Volunteers of the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM), Mumbai Kendra engaged children of Grades 1 and 2 at the Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya, Dahisar on 17th February 2024 through an interactive session, beginning with energizing movements and music. Activities on self-discovery during which the children shared their cherished thoughts on colorful Post-it notes followed.  The volunteers also explored their potential for future learning in various activities like art, music, dance, and craft. The concept of 'dinacharya' (daily routine) was introduced, emphasizing morning pranams and bedtime prayers. The session concluded with an exciting invitation to witness a recitation about Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by children of Grades 3 and 4 on the occasion of Shiv Jayanti , the 19th of February. To support the learning journey of these children and participate in the Satsang Seva Mission, please write to us at connect@satsang-foundation.org .

Volunteers of the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) Mumbai Kendra conducted a heartwarming session for 18 bright-eyed Grade 10 students at Subhedar Ramji Ambedkar Vidyalaya in Pankar Pada, Mira Road, Thane. With the board exams looming towards the end of the month, the air crackled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. This session aimed to be more than just exam prep. Recognizing the emotional toll exams can take, the volunteers focused on empowering students to manage their stress and anxiety. Through proven techniques, students explored the fascinating mind-body connection, learning how the ideal posture can promote better focus and performance. Breathing practices were introduced, equipping students with tools to calm their nerves and enhance concentration. The session culminated in a peaceful two-minute meditation, a practice new to many. As they emerged from stillness, a remarkable transformation was evident. Faces that were once etched with worry now beamed with newfound relaxation a...

Volunteers of the Satsang Seva Mission (SSM) Mumbai Kendra welcomed Year 2024 with different sevas at different centres across Mumbai. Tambe School, Dahisar East Sensitization sessions on holistic well-being are being held at the Tambe School for children of Grades 3 and 4 to help them develop self-awareness and confidence. On 6th January, fitness took centre stage as they learned how to do squats, push-ups, and planks.  On 22nd January, a session on music  and movement represented by the acronym B.E.S.T - Body, Energy, Space, and Time filled the children with great joy as they demonstrated their dancing skills and sang bhajans enthusiastically. Hiranandani Estate Garden, Thane Bi-weekly yoga sessions were launched at the Hiranandani Estate Garden for the children residing in the nearby labor camp. The SSM volunteer is a yoga instructor trained at the Bharat Yoga Vidya Kendra (BYVK) of The Satsang Foundation. Other SSM volunteers have conducted academic support and counselin...

Team SSM Bengaluru continued to support the less privileged by offering the weekly annadaanam seva at the Vallabh Niketan Ashram and Adamya Chetana, Lakshmipura. Volunteers provide monthly dry rations to ensure daily nutritious meals for the young adolescents and the seniors sheltered at Vallabh Niketan Ashram. The holistic development of the youngsters is also assured with weekly yoga sessions, Spoken English classes, and academic support. The Sunday special breakfast is thus a joyous offering that brings the residents together for a shared meal in the cool shade of the trees. At the premises of Adamya Chetana in Lakshmipura, the community of daily wagers and pavement dwellers living in its vicinity partake of a filling lunch to assuage their hunger.   The volunteers serve the meals with much love and compassion even as the recipients express their gratitude with a prayer to their anna daatas . To take part in the Satsang Seva Mission and experience the joy of giving, please writ...