Hinduism

Hindu Cub Scouts can earn the Dharma Award, a religious emblem that develops understanding of Hindu concepts and family faith engagement.

What to Expect

The Dharma program guides your Cub Scout in exploring Hindu faith and values with a parent or guardian (the Dharma Saathi). Work is done at home over several weeks using the official student and Saathi workbooks from the North American Hindu Association. Recommended up to age 13; past participants ranged from 7 to 18. Most families complete four steps in about one month, spending 1–2 hours per weekend and avoiding doing all steps in one sitting.

What’s Included

• Faith-Based Lessons: Elementary introductions to Dharma (duty), Karma (action), Incarnation, and Bhakti (devotion), including routine home worship.

• Family Projects: Hands-on activities that prompt faith conversations and home practice.

• Service: Simple acts of kindness and responsibility that reflect Hindu values.

How the Dharma Program Works

• Student Workbook: Lessons, activities, and creative projects at an age-appropriate level. Each student keeps a personal record; materials are copyrighted and should not be duplicated.

• Mentor Workbook (Dharma Saathi): Guidance and prompts for the parent/guardian. The Saathi may complete their own workbook and earn a Saathi recognition.

• Counselor Manual (Dharma Bhakta): Used by the spiritual counselor who guides the program. A Bhakta is a practicing Hindu, knowledgeable in Hinduism, and approved by the parents and/or temple. The Saathi parent cannot serve as Bhakta for the same student. If you cannot find a local Bhakta, consult the sponsor’s list of Bhakta volunteers. Bhaktas guide as suddha karma (without expectation of return). Families may present a certificate of recognition and/or a Dharma Bhakta pin to the counselor at completion.

How to Get Started

Purchase the student and Saathi workbooks from the North American Hindu Association. After your Scout completes all four steps, meet with your temple priest or designated Bhakta to review the work. Then contact your Pack Religious Emblems Coordinator to arrange:

• A certificate or temple recognition for your Scout, as appropriate.

• Presentation of the purple religious emblems knot at a Pack ceremony.

Religious Emblems Coordinator

REC@Pack1402.org