HSS Canada - Introduction

The uniqueness of Hindu Dharma and the culture as practiced by the Hindu community has a significant contribution to make for the benefit of humanity. It is therefore essential for Hindus living in Canada to develop unity and harmony in their community to effectively promote these salient features. There are around one million Hindus in Canada. Their contributions to the economic, social and cultural life is widely acclaimed.

Who We Are

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) is a voluntary, non-profit, social and cultural organization. Sangh, as the organization is popularly known, aims to organize the Hindu community in order to preserve, practice, and promote Hindu ideals and values. HSS conducts structured programs of regular athletic and academic activities to develop strong character and leadership skills in its members (known as swayamsevaks for men and sevikas for women), emphasizing values such as self-discipline, self-confidence and a spirit of selfless service (seva) for humanity. We encourage maintaining Hindu cultural identity in harmony with the larger community.

Sangh is inspired by the idea that the whole world is one family and conducts activities across the Canada in order to spread this message widely. Sangh has over 25 weekly meeting centers (shakhas) spread over Ontario, Quebec, Greater Vancouver Area (GVA), Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Our Activities

Each chapter of HSS is known as Shakha - a weekly program for the entire family. While the kids enjoy learning in the balagokulam, youth and adults participate in activities such as games, songs, discussions, and lectures on Hindu culture. We strongly emphasize the physical, intellectual, and spiritual growth of each individual, as well as promote a sense of discipline.

Yoga

In order to promote spiritual growth, a sense of unity with the environment and general well being, yoga is an important part of the shakha program.

Games

There are a variety of indoors and outdoors games, including kabaddi and kho-kho, that are played in shakha. The games enhance our ability to work as a team, our stamina, our physical strength or even our strategic skills. These games bring about a spirit of cooperation and create a light, free atmosphere in shakha.

Balgokulam

Children's program in the shakha is called Balagokulam. In the Balagokulams, children learn about their Hindu heritage. They have fun playing games with the other kids. A strong emphasis is also laid on developing leadership qualities and becoming confident representatives of Hindu Dharma.

A well-structured syllabus for different age groups is used at the Balagokulams. In addition, a detailed teacher's training guide has been prepared which can be used by adults that are interested in conducting Balagokulams in their local community.

Intellectual Activities

Bouddhik includes lectures, interactive workshops, discussions, songs(geet) and seminars which enhance intellectual development while helping to increase cultural awareness and improve communication skills.

Camps

Hindu Heritage Camps

Vacation time can be magical. That's the time to explore, enjoy and make more friends. Hindu Heritage Camp of HSS has been a favorite event for children in Canada. Through yoga, games, arts and crafts, stories and skits, HHC brings out hidden talents among the kids and also helps children to understand their cultural roots in a fun-filled atmosphere. In 2005, over 2000 children benefited from these camps.

Sangh Shiksha Varg (Training Camp)

Each year in different parts of the Canada, we have week long training camps for swayamsevaks and sevikas. These camps help to give the attendees confidence and skills required to conduct shakha programs and provide leadership to the Hindu community.

"The one word that comes to mind when I think about SSV is invigorating. Whatever it is you're looking for physical, mental, spiritual - SSV has it all."

Festival Celebrations

In addition to popular festivals like Diwali and Holi, shakhas celebrate six other festivals (utsavs) including Makar Sankranti, Varsha Pratipada (Hindu New Year), Hindu Sangathan Diwas (coronation of Shivaji Maharaj), Guru Pooja, Raksha Bandhan and Vijaya Dashmi (Dussera).

These festivals provide an opportunity to learn about our history, heritage and culture. The festivals also help to bring the community together. Festivals also serve as an outreach to the community as well as provide opportunities to conduct service programs.

Sewa (Service)

HSS shakhas in North America mobilized hundreds of volunteers to assist and provide shelters during the Katrina disaster. HSS provides medical aid, in-kind donations of food and blankets and even engaged evacuees in yoga and games to relieve the stress of their situation. In addition to this, on an ongoing basis, shakhas visits old-age homes, hospitals and soup kitchens to impart a sense of service. We also have embarked on a adopt-a-river program in the Scarborough area. Moreover, the shakhas participate in tree-planting events to help the environment and contribute towards a positive cause in the society. Recently, the Ajax chapter adopted a road in Ajax by cleaning the road and the park nearby. The city honored the great work by putting up signs with HSS name in Ajax.

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