Another parent commented that “anyone of any background
can come to this summer camp and learn about yoga, vegetarianism, nature, and
the pastimes of Krishna.”
Parents appreciated giving many children their
first experiences singing bhajans and kirtans and playing harmonium.
Radha Madhav Society (RMS) hosted its third Summer Hindu Youth Camp from
July 15 – July 20, 2010 at Indian Springs State Park near Atlanta, Georgia.
Information about Hinduism and Hindu culture was provided to give a strong
spiritual foundation to Hindu kids growing up in North America . About 50
children attended the camp, several accompanied by their parents/families, who
had been encouraged to come along.
Children were divided into two
groups: 5-9 years and 10-15 years. Age-appropriate schedules were designed, and
children learned basic fundamentals of Hinduism, how to pray, yoga, Hindi,
bhajans, musical instruments (dholak, harmonium), dancing (garba), games
(pitthu, cricket, tag, tug of war, statue), arts & crafts, etc., in a fun
and nurturing environment. Festivals were celebrated (Guru Purnima, Holi, Sharad
Purnima, and Govardhan), and there were nature walks, a picnic, and a great
cultural program at the end of camp. Older children had the opportunity to
discuss growing up in two cultures (Indian at home and Western outside home)
with Sushri Siddheshvari Devi, the founder of RMS (also known as Didi Ji) and to
get a spiritual perspective on how they should handle them. While children were
attending various classes, parents spent their time in Satsang with Didi Ji,
learning how to incorporate spiritual discipline in their daily lives and in the
lives of their children.
To find out more, please visit
www.radhamadhavsociety.org.