"History is the memory of a nation" —Dr. Basdeo Mangru

                                     

"HISTORY, particularly the East Indian Indentured experience in Guyana, is close to his heart. It is the unique history of a committed people and their struggling nation. He can talk about it for hours without getting tired. His vast knowledge in that aspect of the South American country’s past unfolds as he warms up to his “pet” subject. It is a country’s rich history not told by many; a commanding history not known to many, especially the younger generation. “History is the memory of a nation,” he strongly believes, “and that history should never be lost.” To lose it would be tantamount to losing the soul of Guyana’s nationhood - a tender yet strong nationhood that includes all the trappings that come with independence, free republic, democracy and other social conditions the Guyanese people have struggled for over the years. It is imperative that that history be told! And somebody has to study and chronicle the country’s rich historical past on the pages of the history book. Dr. Basdeo Mangru chose to walk the path of a historian. Most importantly, he passes on this rare knowledge onto the younger generation. He teaches Guyanese and Caribbean history to students at York College, one of the City Universities of New York (CUNY), situated in Jamaica, Queens. He is an Adjunct Associate Professor of History at the college. He also teaches history at John Adams High School in Richmond Hill, Queens. A large percentage of Guyanese and West Indian children attend that high school. His resource material for teaching Caribbean History is taken from `Indians in Guyana - A concise history from their arrival to the present’ and his other published works. It is a 108-page book he has written in honour and memory of his ancestors who have crossed the “kala pani” (black water) to the “New World” of El Dorado in the then British Guiana. In his book, he cited four main reasons for writing it, the main one being in “response to the lack of readily available literature on these enterprising people.” Also, it was supposed to urge the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) “to add another theme to its syllabus, giving Caribbean students a wider choice in areas of concentration.” A tall, distinguished individual, Dr. Mangru nurtures a deep passion for teaching; a passion, which enraptured his young heart and blossomed over the years into a state of dignified maturity. As it turns out, teaching is an integral part of his life, and over the years he has developed immense love and respect for the job. Deep down, he still holds the belief that teaching is quite a noble profession. Traveling back in memory lane, he said that he attended Corentyne High School in Rose Hall Town, Berbice. He spent his boyhood days with his parents and eight other siblings, a big family he smilingly said. After he graduated from high school, his options were limited: “it was either teaching or civil service," he pointed out, and since civil service meant he had to leave home and his family, he chose the other best thing - teaching. And "I love to teach," he quietly stated. Indeed, that is the only profession that he knows. Displaying a sharp wit that belied his age, Dr. Mangru talked easily of his many intriguing experiences with life in Guyana, London and New York City. Like other Guyanese who went away to study abroad, some of these experiences had a great impact on his life. Interestingly, despite the many years he spent away from home and apart from his family, he never gave up his identity as a Guyanese East Indian. His conviction in the principle of “who you are” as a person is indelibly printed in his mind. Identity, he believes, as an individual one should never lose because once "you lose your identity, you lose your way" and practically every other principle you hold dear. Dr. Mangru hails from Albion Front, on the Corentyne, Berbice. And he is proud of the fact he grew up in “a big family” which was closely knitted together. This cohesiveness is an integral part of the Guyanese family landscape. It was important particularly in those turbulent days of struggles and hardship to keep the family together, he noted. In 1966, he entered the University of Guyana (UG) and later enrolled in the master's programme at the university. Incidentally, he was the first M.A. graduate of UG. Dr. Robert Moore was one of Dr. Mangru's lecturers at the university. During one of his lessons, Dr. Moore lamented the fact that very little is known about the East Indians who sailed from the Sub-Continent of India over 164 years ago. "He talked about how little we know about our ancestors from India; how they were recruited; the condition of their passage across the ocean and their lives in India," recalled Dr. Mangru. Little did the lecturer know then, that his words would have such a profound effect on one of his students. Dr. Moore's lamentation became the very inspiration and motivation for the young Basdeo Mangru. However, life was never clear-cut; but in between teaching and studying, he persevered with his dream of researching his "roots". Roots could “lead you to all things” and answer many burning questions, which surfaced over the years, he asserted. As a young Guyanese East Indian, he was committed to studying the history of his forebears. Dr. Mangru taught at UG for about four years. However, he continued on his quest to learn more about his people. His hard labour of love and many nights of arduous study did not go unnoticed. Dr. Mangru won several awards and distinctions, including the Commonwealth Academic Staff Fellowship in United Kingdom and the prestigious Rockefeller Residency Fellowship in the Humanities, Asian-American Center, Queens College. In 1978, he went to study in England, at the University of London. He went back to Guyana and taught for another year at UG. He taught History of Modern India, Caribbean History and the History of Guyana. He received his pH. in History in 1981 from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. According to Dr. Mangru, "majority of records on East Indian immigration to Guyana and the other Caribbean countries are kept at the Public Record Office and India Office Library" in London, England. He did extensive research for his thesis at the two public places in England. For his doctorate degree, he chose `Migration of East Indian from India - 1854/1884’ as the title of his thesis. Dr. Mangru wrote two of his three published books while he was living and studying in London. `Indenture and Abolition: Sacrifice and Survival on the Guyanese Sugar Plantation’ and `Benevolent Neutrality: Indian Government Policy and Labor Migration to British Guiana, 1854-1884’ are the books. The doctor wrote A History of East Indian Resistance on the Guyana Sugar Estate, 1869-1948 while he was in New York. He lives in Richmond Hill, Queens, with his wife. His two grown children are married. Currently, he is working on the manuscript of his fourth book, which he describes as "a collection of essays on East Indians in Guyana”. He wants to recapture life in the colonial days in the then British Guiana and document the many changes and the progress, which have occurred after so many years. The title of the book is In Search of Paradise and it is expected to be on the shelves by this summer, which is a month away. A prolific writer in his own right and one of the only Guyanese authors to write about the migration of East Indians from India to Guyana's shore, the doctor said that he loves to write. Although he admits that it is not the easiest of tasks - on the contrary, "it is hard to write" - he just loves to write Guyana’s history. He will continue to write for as long as he could. He writes mostly in the summer time. It takes him about three years to finish a book because of the in-depth research involved in writing his books. He wants to write about “the Guyanese East Indians in New York; how the Indians are adjusting to life in New York City," adding "I want to look at some of the social issues that are affecting them." Dr. Mangru also wants to write a document on the "riots in Guyana during 1962". Everybody should be interested in their history, he said. Commenting on all the records of the many nations across the world that Great Britain has in its archives during its rein and power, he asserted, "History is the memory of a nation and that should never be lost." "We should always know our roots because whenever we lose our roots, we lose our identities." “We can live here by being a part of the American society, yet hold on to our identity and practice our customs and know our history,” he asserted. "We have a rich heritage and culture, we should never let go of it,” he pointed out. “We should be proud of it.” Dr. Mangru teaches full-time at John Adams and part-time at York College. He would love to go back and teach at UG, Berbice Campus. His book Indians in Guyana is recommended by the Curriculum Specialist attached at the Ministry of Education to be taught in high schools across Guyana. The Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Education also acknowledges the importance of the book to be included in the high school curriculum. “The Ministry of Education accepted the book but basically, it has to get funds to purchase the books,” he noted. Asked if he has any database of the numerous records of the East Indians who migrated from India since he has been writing about their migration, he replied in the negative. “I don’t keep them, but the Guyana Journal, another publication in New York, has some.” What are his feelings for his country of birth? “I still love Guyana. I still love the freedom and camaraderie in Guyana.” He also misses “the easy pace of life” Guyana offers. “I find joy in teaching and writing about my people; that history needs to be told,” he said with a smile [This article was written published some years ago and has been posted here - Ms. Bina Mahabir.]

“TIPS FOR HAPPY LIVING” – PUJYA GURUJI SWAMI TEJOMAYANANDAJI, GLOBAL HEAD OF THE CHINMAYA MISSION IN NEW YORK

Pujya Guruji entering the Ganesha Temple auditorium

It was three days of blissful living in super blissful company, being in spiritual communion with such a great spiritual personality whose name itself means “Master of Bliss,” as he retold the story about his visit to a classroom full of kids, mostly American, during one of his trips to the US. How does a Swami break the barrier to a group of youngsters even before he begin his talk? They were already particularly curious about his strange mode of orange-color dressing.

He took chalk and simply wrote down “TEJOMAYANANDA” on the chalkboard. He informed them that that is his name.

“Do you know what it means?” he asked with a disarming smile.

Pujya Guruji giving his blessings

“No!” was the resounding answer, as pairs of eyes stared at the board, more puzzle than ever.

There, the barrier was almost broken. Then, this great teacher explained to them that TEJOMAYANANDA means “MASTER OF BLISS.”

They all started laughing, relieved at hearing familiar English words and Pujya Guruji, as he is lovingly addressed by devotees from the Mission, also heaved a sigh of relief. Not a bad start. In fact, the talk went so well that Swamiji received Thank You notes from the kids and what do you know, they politely addressed him as: “Dear Master of Bliss.” Nice touch, indeed.

Swami Tejomayanandaji, Global Head of the Chinmaya Mission Worldwide, just concluded a 3-days visit to the New York chapter, holding several discourses on how people can find happiness amidst this sometimes topsy-turvy world.

Pujya Guruji gave us many tips on how to find this elusive happiness, but first, he informed us that we must be serious about finding it. Serious?



Pujya Guruji with Dr. Jatin Kapadia, Dr. Lakshmi Kapadia & Ammaji

Yes! Because, “Happiness is not a state of mind,” he corrected another misconception we have about happiness.  

“You’re that happiness. If you want to be happy all the time, know ‘Thyself’,” Swamiji stated matter-of-factly.

“You’re that bliss,” he added for emphasis, referring to the Sat-Chit-Anand (Existence-Consciousness-Bliss) Vedantic formulae that the rishis of yore have tried and tested successfully from time immemorial.

He advised us that happiness cannot be found in any material things, or anything external for that matter, even in another human being. We must learn to be happy with oneself and we must learn to see that Oneness in everything else both outside and inside. That is the true source of lasting happiness.

Pujya Guruji’s talks were sprinkled with many light moments, moments which generated much laughter from the gathering, but which were also laced with deep moral and spiritual purports. Like the story he read somewhere about happiness:

If you want happiness for one day, take a nap.

If you want happiness for a week, go fishing, or do some sport you like.If you want happiness for a month, get married.
If you want happiness for a year, win the lottery.If you want happiness for eternity, know ‘Thyself’.

“Know Thyself!” We take a bow at that.

Some snapshots of the event.


Pujya Guruji during Biksha

Pujya Guruji, Swami Shantanandaji & Swami Siddhanandaji

 





Pujya Guruji with Shri George

Pujya Guruji with Swamini Akhilanandaji, Tejoji & Bal Vihar student

 

Group singing kirtan

THREE DAYS OF SUNDAR KAND RAMAYAN READING ORGANIZDED BY CHINMAYA MISSION NEW YORK AT VAISHNAV TEMPLE



Swami Shantanandaji of the Chinmaya Vrindavan delivering talks on Sundar Kand

Chinmaya Mission New York organized a three-day series of talks on Sundara Kand of Goswami Tulsidasji’s Ramayan at the Vaishnav Temple, located at 100 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park, New York. The Ramayan reading started on the evening of Thursday, October 17 and concluded with the marathon three-sessions of reading on Saturday October 19, with small, intermittent breaks for breakfast and lunch.

Swami Shantanandaji of Chinmaya Vrindavan in New Jersey conducted the three-days event. In his most inimitable style, Swamiji conducted the Sundar Kand study sessions with such ease and in such an effortless manner that it bellies the patience, dedication, endurance and hard work required to perform such a demanding feat.

Sundar Kand, which literally means “beautiful chapter”, is dedicated to Hanuman Swami, who dedicated his life to serving his Lord, Sri Ram. Hanuman Swami is the epitome of selfless service, humility, devotion and love for his Lord.

Dr. Jatin Kapadia, Dr. Lakshmi Kapadia, Dr. Yachana Shah, Runjhun Saklani, along with other members of the Chinmaya Mission of New York, organized this wonderful event at the Vaishnav Temple. The beautifully decorated room was transformed into a peaceful prayer hall that was conducive to spiritual upliftment.

Each session began with half hour of singing bhajans and kirtans by different groups and the singing of the Hanuman Chalisa by everyone. The sacred aarti was performed in the beginning and ending of each session. After all of these rituals, Swamiji would begin his pravachans, which were an hour and a half each, non-stop. 

Swami Ji deep in thought during his pravachan

A Ramayan was lent to everyone for all the sessions so devotees could chant the Hindi chow-paees with Swamiji. The singing of the chow-paees by everyone reverberated in the hall to create a very tranquil and serene atmosphere.

Soon after, Swamij explained the meaning of the Hindi verses in English and then extracted the Vedantic principles from these verses and expounded them in simple terms so everyone could understand the meanings.

The Saturday session was an all-day session, which started sharply at 9:30 am, with the singing of bhajans and kirtans by devotees of the Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of New York, followed by the singing of the Hanuman Chalisa by all devotees.

Soon after, Swamiji starting his pravachan with prayers, like he did at the previous sessions. There was a thirty minutes tea break for all, then everyone made their way back to the prayer hall for another one and a half hour of Sundar Kand reading and lecture.


Swamiji tirelessly delivering the greatness of Shri Hanuman

Lunch break lasted from 1:30pm to 3:00pm and while enjoying the delicious meal and hot tea, devotees took the opportunity to express their total enjoyment of Swamiji’s lectures.

The last session commenced at 3:00pm with the singing of kirtans and the Hanuman Chalisa before Swamiji took the podium for another hour and a half to complete the entire Sundar Kand reading.

Those devotees present throughout the many sessions were blessed to have such a rear chance to read, listen and contemplate on the greatness of Hanuman Swami and his many wonderful exploits as was so beautifully described by Swamiji. It was indeed a great experience.

Swamiji’s talks were educational, inspiring, but most importantly, he took time to break down the sometimes complex ideas into simple terms so that all could understand them. And oh! Ever so often Swamiji sprinkled drops of soothing humor in between serious Vedantic thoughts to help us grasp the deeper meaning embedded in Sundar Kand of the Ramayan.

To conclude the three-day’s sessions, all devotees performed the sacred aarti and received prasadam and a Hanuman Chalisa booklet from Swamiji.

GRAND ‘DHARMA & YOGA FEST’ IN HONOR OF SWAMI VIVEKANANDA’S 150TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY

The positive energy of the people was tangible. One could feel the peace, warmth and friendly vibes emanating from all corners of the main hall – the Bhakti Yoga room. People turned out from all walks of life, far and near, to learn and to acquaint themselves with this towering, legendary personality. It was a grand affair organized to honor and celebrate the life of one of India’s most iconic Hindu spiritual monks of the highest order – Swami Vivekananda.  

Swami Vivekananda at the Parliament of World Regions in 1863

It was appropriately titled “Dharma & Yoga Fest,” with the theme focusing on the “spiritual celebration of Universal Oneness.” The event was held to commemorate Swami Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary on Saturday September 21, at the majestic Highlands Middle School in White Plains, New York.

“Dharma & Yoga Fest” was held under the aegis of the White Plains Cares Coalition, in conjunction with the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), a US-based non-profit organization which helps to organize social, cultural and educational activities for Hindus and non-Hindus throughout the United States of America.

HSS was instrumental in coordinating similar cultural and educational programs like this one throughout the United States. All of them were held to pay homage to this Indian spiritual giant whose contribution to mankind is immeasurable.



Dignitaries of stage at Bhakti Yoga track

 The day’s event was officially opened with the sacred lighting of the lamps by the invited dignitaries at 1 p.m. and was followed by a rich cultural program in the Bhakti Yoga track. Throughout the day, various local officials took to the stage to address the gathering, including Mayor Thomas M. Roach, who conducted the official inauguration.

There were four tracks running parallel in different rooms, covering the four major branches of Yoga – an ancient Indian school of thought that stated if followed in the truest form, the teachings help the individual become a Self-realized person while still alive, like Swami Vivekananda. The four types of Yoga are Bhakti Yoga (Devotion), Jnana Yoga (Spiritual Knowledge), Karma Yoga (Selfless Action) and Raja Yoga (or Hatha Yoga which is physical postures aim towards keeping the human body and mind healthy and balanced). All four branches were beautifully showcased at the program.
 

Kuchipudi dancers at their best on the talis



 At the Bhakti Yoga track, the program consisted of eloquent chanting of sloks from the Bhagavad Gita by two young kids, mesmerizing Indian Odissi and Kuchipudi dances, including dancing on talis by highly skilled dancers and kirtan singing by several groups. The introductory part of the cultural show was competently chaired by Rudra Upadhyaya, who is an official of the New York chapter of HSS.

At the Jnana Yoga track, a lively panel discussion was held on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu scriptural text written in Sanskrit and whose dynamic teachings surpass boundaries of all kinds because its universal appeal to humanity as a whole. The Bhagavad Gita is being studied by students from all over the world, from all walks of life, from ancient time to present day modern time. The panelists included Dr. Graham Schweig, Dr. Yashwant Pathak, Dr. Rakesh Shreedhar and Reverend Mathew Wright.


Ready, steady ...  here I come!

It was Kids Kingdom at the Karma Yoga track and selfless service in action. There was the Fancy Costume competition where infants to eleven years-old participated for prizes. They were fancifully dolled up as prominent Indian historical and religious figures, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Meera Bhai and Shri Rama, among others. Here also were various game stalls for the children and prizes if they won at their specialties. There were also several vendor stalls marketing their brands and products to the passing crowd. Children were treated to some story-telling of the Native American Story, there was a Yoga session and a Puppet show.

At the Raja Yoga track, the Science of Breathing was explained by Dr. Sarita Patel, the Techniques of Stress-free living was presented by the Brahma Kumaris, Laughter Yoga (you read correct!) was demonstrated by Beth Kaplan Bangor to the uproar of the audience, Everyday Yoga was demonstrated by Dr. Vimala Bhatt and a Q & A session by one of Yoga’s living legend, Tao Porchon-Lynch.

Kiran from Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of NY as Swami Ji

The highlight of the day’s event was the much anticipated skit depicting several critically important aspects of Swami Vivekananda’s life. The skit was spearheaded by Dr. Sai Patel, who heads the women branch of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh in New York. Portions of the skit was enacted by children from different HSS groups from different areas, including, Connecticut, Westchester and Queens. Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of New York, a mandir based in Richmond Hill, Queens, was the only mandir that participated in the skit.



Kids performing one of the scenes of the skit

The children performed their roles as if they were professional actors. Emphasis was placed on all of them to know their many lines by memory and that they did. They depicted Swami Ji’s life in India, his meeting with Professor John Henry Wright of Harvard University and his historical speech at the first ever held Parliament of World Religions held in Chicago in 1893.


Swami Ji’s famous opening lines, “Sisters and Brothers of America” not only captivated the audience but he received a standing ovation from the entire congregation. The inherent message was that of universal brotherhood and tolerance – principles taught in the ancient Hindu philosophy “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translated to mean “The whole world is one family.” The children did justice to their roles and held the audience spellbound to the end. Compliments must go to Sai Ji and her team of hard working individuals for putting this huge skit together.



Swami Ji was hailed as The New Spiritual Rock Star

Swami Vivekananda was born on January 12, 1863 as Narendranath Dutta in Calcutta to parents Vishwanath and Bhuvaneshwari Devi Dutta. As a child, Swami Ji was extremely close to his mother who was a very religious person. She taught him stories from the Ramayan, Gita and Mahabharat. These were scriptural texts he grew up to love and enjoy reading himself. Thus, began his undying quest to find God. Ever so often, when he had opportunities to meet saints and sages, he would ask them the million dollar question, “Sir, have you seen God?”



His desire to see God came to a halt when he met Swami Ramakrishna Ji, who eventually became his Guru. When he asked Swami Ramakrishna Ji, “Sir, have you seen God?” The Swami replied, “Yes, I’ve seen God just as I’m seeing you.” Finally, he found the spiritual master he was looking for and the rest, as they say, is history. Swami Ji gave up the mortal coil on July 4, 1902 but his principles of universal tolerance, goodwill, harmony and brotherhood for mankind live on in hearts of all of us.

Devotees of the Sri Chinmoy Center

 Devotees of the Sri Chinmoy Center of New York conducted an enchantingly soul-stirring and fitting tribute for Swami Ji. Their inspiring presentation of soothing kirtans and lovely short messages brought a sense of serenity, peace and tranquility in the Bhakti Yoga room, as the curtain was about to be drawn on a day jam-packed with programs.


"Dharma & Yoga Fest” was extremely well planned, thought out and skillfully executed by the HSS officials. Everyone involved in the planning of this event must be lauded for the hard work, effort, dedication, energy and selfless service they put in to create a program so richly deserving of Swami Ji’s exemplary life.

And as Swami Vivekananda once said, “Blessed are those whose bodies get destroyed in the service to others.”

Hats off to all of you for a job well done!

Dr Graham Schweig during his presentation at Jnana Yoga

"MUSIC IS PART OF MY SOUL" ---

Kinnar Ji in "oneness" with the sitar

(Editor's note: This article was published in the West Indian newspaper in New York - dated 8/24/13. No parts of this article can be reproduced without permission from the writer).

Internationally-acclaimed Sitar Exponent and Trained Indian Classical Musician Pandit Kinnar Seen

Indian classical music pulls at his heart beats. In fact, the very essence of his being pulsates with the rhythm of this magical musical genre. He has been playing and teaching Indian classical music with such passion and soulfulness for so long - that he has become the music, which he stated, “connects me to my people, regardless of which part they’re from; it’s part of our Indian identity.”

Meet Pandit Kinnar Kumar Seen! He is an internationally-acclaimed exponent of sitar and a trained Indian classical singer/musician who lives to play and teach music to anyone who is willing to learn this ancient art form. Despite the international fame, heaps of accolades and numerous awards, he remains the epitome of humility, extremely modest, full of devotion for his music and is blessed with a prayerful heart and a great family.

During a recent interview, when asked how important Indian classical music is to him, this easy-going music Guru simply replied that, “music is part of my soul.” Music is the “food for the soul” that he cannot sleep or live without, “I can’t even sleep if I don’t play music.”

Then, he added softly but matter-of-factly, “If I cannot play music, then let my God take me away because life without music is no life.” Through the medium of performances and teaching, he is trying to keep Indian classical music alive and vowed to continue, “For as long as I live.”

Unwittingly, he touched a chord in the inner core of himself unfathomable to many of us. You see, music runs extremely deep in his genetic make-up and his spiritual consciousness; so much so that, it is appropriate to say that as fragrance is to roses, Indian classical music is to Kinnar Seen.

So, how is he able to achieve this seeming subtle “oneness” so effortlessly with the music he plays, especially with the sitar, which he shares a very strong bond with?

“It’s not me or what I’ve achieved, but I must have come with these qualities; this is because of my sanskars,” he stated modestly, emphasizing that, “It’s my Dharma.”

MUSICAL BACKGROUND

Was it celestially blissful growing up in a home where the soothing sound of the sitar and scintillating beats of the tabla filled the atmosphere?

“It was normal going up in a musical family,” Kinnar Ji stated honestly, being the down-to- earth person that he is, and continued, “my father is my Guru,” however, he succinctly pointed out that it was not always easy studying under his father.

He grew up in Jalandhar, in the state of Punjab, North India, where he was exposed to the traditional Punjab Gharana style of music from a very tender age.


His father, Acharya Ji Lachman Singh Seen, is a legendary musician in India and is also very well-known on the international musical circuit. Acharya Ji Seen started Sangeet Vilas, a musical school in his home town, teaching Indian classical music, specializing in the sitar and tabla.



The Seen family is not only extra-ordinarily gifted musicians but also Raput landowners. Kinnar Ji came from a long line of ancestors who were also rulers for their state. His late mother, Shrimati Shakuntala Rani Seen, was very influential in him studying music and becoming the full fledged, versatile professional musician he is today.

“She is the reason I’m in music,” he credited his mother for his blessings.

Thus, the young Kinnar began his musical journey, studying under the guidance of his father, along with so many other students who were always coming to his home.

He went on to study at a private institution, the Guru Nanak Dev University, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in English and a Master’s Degree in Music, majoring in Sitar in 1984. He also holds the title of Sangeet Visharad, which is equivalent to Master’s Degree in both tabla and singing that he holds in Bombay.

For his proficiencies in both vocal and tabla, he won seven gold medals in both regional and national competitions in India. He liked to participate in competitions for which he put in long hours of practice daily back then and even now he practices endlessly.

MOVE TO THE USA

He relocated to the USA over twenty-five years ago. What prompted the young Kinnar to move to the US and New York, in particular?

Kinnar Ji revealed that he traveled “almost half of the world,” but somehow, “New York always felt like home,” then he reasoned philosophically, “Anywhere I go, I’ve to work and live, then why not live where it felt like home?”

Asked if it was difficult to leave his parents, particularly his mother, for a foreign land, he replied that his father believed in the ancient Vedantic teaching, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which literally means, “The whole world is a single family.” His mother was very supportive of his move.

Like majority of immigrants during their early years of assimilating life in the US, it was also challenging for Kinnar Ji. He had to work from jobs here and there to make ends meet.

TEACHING UNDER THE ANCIENT GURU SHISHYA SYSTEM

When did it dawn on him that he wanted to teach Indian classical music?

Well, in those early days, “I wasn’t thinking to teach music,” he related, as he was more into musical performances. Also, when he came to New York, initially, he was not ready to teach music when asked by a few parents.

However, because he practiced music so much for his performances, the transition to teaching the music became quite easy. In the end, he gave in and taught a few children.

“But, then I teach a few kids, I see the changes I made in their lives and I thought, if I can do this, it’s all worth it. That’s when I decided to teach music. I stopped all my bad habits,” he stated truthfully, reminiscing down memory lane during the early days of his teaching career. These days, teaching this sacred music has become a deep passion of his.

According to Kinnar Ji, parents from the West Indian Diaspora were very supportive of his new venture. Many Guyanese and Trinidadian parents were very enthusiastic to have such a knowledgeable individual teach their children singing, harmonium and tabla. In those early days, he conducted classes at the children’s homes.

Kinnar Ji conducting a singing class

“People from Guyana and Trinidad asked me to teach their kids. Kalicharran met me and asked me to teach his kids. Pandit Jadonath also brought several people.” Finally, the word was out that Kinnar Ji started teaching music. Soon, he started getting kids from both West Indian and Indian parents.

In time, he met his future wife, the beautiful Shrimati Payal Seen, in New York and they took the vivah sanskar. They have been happily married for over twenty years. Payal Ji is an accomplished singer, an expert on the harmonium and very well versed on the tabla.

Eventually, they continued the rich tradition started by Kinnar Ji’s father and opened up their own musical school, Sangeet Vilas, with branches in Long Island and Queens, which has been in operation for over two decades now.

Kinnar Ji runs his musical school under the ancient Indian traditional Guru Shishya system. He is Guru and Payal Ji is Guruma to all their students, who are asked to wear traditional Indian attires to all classes. As music teachers, they treat all their students as family and emphasize the importance of strong family values in classes. They protect their students and provide a very nurturing, caring and stress-free learning environment.

Payal Ji at her best

They are very hardworking, dedicated and selfless teachers who pour their hearts and souls into teaching this ancient art form to their students, who come from all walks of life, young and old and from different cultures. They implement a strict code of discipline during classes and teach music in the traditional Indian raags style, such as, Kalyaan, Khamaaj, Kafi, Bhairav, Bhairavi and Todi, among others. Kinnar Ji teaches the sitar, vocal and tabla and Payal Ji teaches vocal and harmonium classes.

A large percentage of their students consist of young American West Indians who are leading professional singers and tabla players in their mandirs and community at large – compliments to this dynamic musical duo. Hundreds of students have passed through their expert tutelage to date since they started teaching music.

What is the most rewarding moment for Kinnar Ji as a music teacher?



Payal Ji conducting a class

“When the kids perform and make a difference in society, I see myself in them,” he responded with deep feeling, and continued with a sense of immense joy, “my heart becomes overwhelmed when the kids practice and go to temples and play their music.”

He likes to pass on this music to others as it brings “inner peace” to him knowing that he has made a difference in their lives, adding, on a more serious note, “music is part of their identity, part of them, so I feel satisfy when I pass it on to them.”

HIS INSPIRATION

Everyone needs inspiration from time to time, correct? So, what inspires Kinnar Ji?

“Nature, the trees, birds, those folks who have no hands, no legs but still never quits. Manju Mehta, who has no index finger, yet she plays the sitar so very well.” Mehta is an international sitarist from India. Then, there is that special bird that created a nest on one of his trees at home. Super storm Sandy came and gone but the nest was still there! His dog chased the poor thing non-stop, but the brave bird never quits.

The philosophy of never quitting, hard work, dedication and perseverance has made Kinnar Ji into a sitar maestro and a singer of the highest caliber. He plays the harmonium and tabla with such skillful dexterity as if his fingers have minds and eyes of their own. His performances are aesthetically appealing and always hold audiences mesmerized and riveted to their seats.

CHARITY WORKS

He has done endless charity shows all over the world and continues to perform for charity, because “it’s important to give back to the community,” as it is people from the society who have given their generous support to him over the years. A few years ago, he and Payal Ji went to Guyana to teach throughout the country, under the patronage of Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha. Guyana and the Guyanese people are close to his heart.

Kinnar Ji is the recipient of many awards; he was awarded in the USA, Canada, and India. Recently, he received a Medal of Honor from the Nassau County of New York State for his contribution towards the development of music. This means a lot to him.

He has also scored music for a few films. He is the music director for “FootPaths of Our Indentured Ancestors,” which is a documentary based on the East Indian Indentured history in British Guiana and is being produced by a group of overseas-based Guyanese.

He lives quietly with his wife and two children, Tasur and Nadni, in Long Island, New York. For further information on music classes, he can be reached at 646-504-7008 or 516-515-7034 or visit the website: www.sangeetvilas.com. (Bina Mahabir)

 

HAPPY RAKSHA BANDHAN TO ALL!

Tali with Rakhi and sweets. (Online photo)

(Below is excerpt of a  talk I gave to students and some parents at the Shaka movement at JHS 217 school on Hillside on 8/19/13. It was conducted by Shrimati Devi Misri and Rudra Ji. It's always nice speaking to young minds, especially when they are so attentive and willing to learn. Thanks to all of you for having me there. Keep up the great work!)

The festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day (Poornima) of the Hindu lunar month of Shravan (August – September). Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu festival and is officially observed tomorrow – August 20^th – by Hindus globally. Raksha Bandhan coincides with Satyanarayan Vrat Katha (Full Moon Katha). Many mandirs in our community will be observing these two important festivals.

Raksha Bandhan is a beautiful festival which literally means a “bond of protection” – Raksha means protection and Bandhan means a bond. Traditionally, the Rakhi (sacred thread) is tied onto the brother’s wrist by a sister, after prayers would have been chanted and the brother would have been 'aartied' (sister waving of lit diya around the brother) and given sweets to eat. Then, the sister would lovingly tie the Rakhi onto her brother’s right wrist. The brother reciprocated his sister’s love and respect by blessing his sister and giving her a nice gift.

As Rabindranauth Tagore said, "Hinduism are thoughts and ideas that move with the time." So, to accommodate the needs of families blessed with only girls, a sister can tie Rakhi onto her sister’s wrist or friend’s wrist. If the Rakhi is tied onto a sister’s wrist by a sister or friend, the significance of this special festival remains the same. When the Rakhi is tied onto the wrist, the relationship between brother and sister and sister and sister takes on a much deeper meaning.

The tying of the Rakhi has deep spiritual and social significances. It symbolizes the sister's love and prayers for her brother's well-being, and the brother's lifelong vow to protect her from all things evil. The same meaning is applicable for the  sister and sister bond; the two sisters develop a stronger bond for each other, respect each other and try to protect each other for a lifetime.

So, to all of you who are tying the Rakhi this afternoon and those whose wrists the Rakhi is being tied onto, please try to understand the deeper spiritual and social significances of Raksha Bandhan and try to uphold these rich values at all times. In doing so, you will be keeping the flag of Sanatan Dharma flying very high because you are all future ambassadors of this mighty religion.

Always remember, whatever you do in life, including observing the festival of Raksha Bandhan here today, God is a silent witness to this, so always practice the good values your mothers and fathers, Gurus and elders teach you. Always strive to “Be good, do good and live good.”

Why do we have so many festivals like Raksha Bandhan and others in Hinduism?

In Hinduism, we’re blessed with all these beautiful festivals and parbs, such as, Janamashtami, Raksha Bandhan, Nauratri, etc., because God wants us to become more pure, truthful and sattvik in our thoughts, words and deeds. In essence, the Lord wants us to be more Godly. The many festivals  help us to practice self-control, dispassion and detachment. They also help us to ride ourselves of ego, greed and lust. Raksha Bandhan helps us to love and respect our siblings and rid us of ego, greed and lust against our sisters and brothers.

Raksha Bandhan has been celebrated from time immemorial in Hinduism:

In the famous epic, the Mahabharat, Shri Krishna was wounded on the hand in the battlefield. Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, torn a strip off her sari and tied it around Shri Krishna’s wrist to stop the bleeding. The Supreme Lord was very touched by Draupadi’s kind act and so promised to repay her. To upkeep His promise, the Lord spent over 25 years protecting her and her family – the Pandavas - from the evil King Duryodhana. The Supreme Lord also supplied an endless flow of sari to Draupadi when she was shamelessly being disrobed by her evil relatives.   

Then there is the story of the legendary demon King Bali. He was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu, so much so, that Lord Vishnu had taken up the task to guard his kingdom, leaving His own abode in Vaikunth. Goddess Lakshmi wished to be with Her Lord in their own abode - Vaikunth.

So, what did Shri Lakshmi did?

She disguised Herself as a woman and seek refuge at Bali’s residence until Lord Vishnu returns back to Her.

During the Shravan Purnima celebrations, Lakshmi Devi tied the sacred thread onto King Bali’s wrist. When asked by Bali, She revealed who she was and why she was there. The king was touched by Her goodwill for his family and Her purpose. He then requested Lord Vishnu to return with Shri Lakshmi to Vaikunth. He sacrificed all he had for the Lord and his devoted wife.

Rabindranath Tagore was one of India’s greatest poet and independent thinkers. His vision of celebrating Raksha Bandhan was somewhat different. He believed that Raksha Bandhan is not only a festival for the siblings but it should be a celebration of mankind and humanity. He promoted the idea of using Raksha Bandhan as a celebration to spread the message of unity and harmony among all members of the society. He believed that it is the responsibility of all members of the society to help and protect each other and encourage a harmonious social life.

And, that is what you’re all celebrating here today – you’re celebrating peace, unity and harmony among yourselves. You will take the lessons learned here and practice them  at home and in society. You’ll make the society a better place to live in. That is the cardinal principle of the Sakha movement – to promote peace, brotherhood, unity and harmony among all peoples.

So, as you tie Rakhi on each other’s wrist this evening, strive to be your sister’s and brother’s keeper and protector. Love each other, look out for each other, support each other, be good Hindu boys and girls. Make your mother and father proud! Make your community proud!

Happy Raksha Bandhan to all!  

CHALLENGES FACING CARIBBEAN HINDUS IN THE US



Deepavali Puja at the Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of NY

In most scenarios, wherever a Hindu or a Hindu family relocate, they try their utmost best to maintain the cardinal principles involved in living a good Hindu life, regardless of the challenges facing them in their new environment. This was true of our East Indian Indentured ancestors who left the shores of India over 174 years ago to toil in sugar plantations of many British colonies around the globe. Their lives were reduced to arguably semi-slavery conditions, but they never gave up their strong believe in their unique Dharma. They learned to adapt to their new harsh realities but their unflinching faith in their beliefs kept them going in the good and the bad times. That is an important character trait that was passed on from one generation to the next. And, when subsequent generations seek brighter futures for themselves and families in more economically advanced countries, such as, the USA, Canada and England, they carried their religious and cultural beliefs wiith them.



The famous Ganesha Temple in Flushing, Queens

Hindus from the West Indies and other countries migrated to the US for basically the same goal: a higher education and a better life for themselves and their families. Amidst the many challenges they confronted in their new strange land, many of those early migrants persevered, worked hard, improved their lots and sponsored their families over. Today, the Hindu population in the US has increased by a sizeable amount, whether they migrated from the West Indies, India, Mauritius, Fiji or South Africa. According to the United States Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report 2004, American Hindus is estimated at 0.5 % of the total population or over 1.4 million. That was seven years. Today, that number is probably doubled. The number of mandirs they are putting up in their communities are also on the rise.

Tassa Group 'beating' their drums at a Diwali Parade on Liberty Avenue

But, the challenges facing American Hindus remain and are still daunting. These can be categorized in different groups, such as, the many challenges they faced in living and raising their children in a predominantly Christian society; due to the heavy Western influences, many parents exercise poor judgment in their parenting styles, many tolerate their children to practice the American lifestyle and forsake their own, so many petty in-fightings among themselves and the lack of understanding of Sanatan Dharma by other faiths.



The popular Sybils is one of the first restaurants to open up on Liberty Ave by immigrants from Guyana

Before migrating to the US, many of them lived in a predominantly Hindu society. In the US, they find themselves living and raising their children in a predominantly Christian society, where the way of life is vastly different from theirs. They now have to acclimatize themselves to their new surroundings and devise ways to maintain their unique Indian heritage and culture. In lieu of that, one of the biggest challenges Hindu parents face is transmitting the rich traditional and cultural values to their children. Many of them are finding it very hard to raise their children in the same disciplined manner they grew up in. Hence, there is a visible pattern of a continuous degeneration of the good "old-fashioned" Hindu values among young American Hindus. Just take a walk down the bustling Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill at the end of any given school day. Groups of school children of East Indain descent can be found aimlessly walking home and they don't care if you hear their fowl language. Their freaky way of dressing would raise eyebrows, to put it mildly; their crude mannerism and poor conduct in public not only left much to be desired, but it speaks volume of their parents. Some would argue that parents do their best and in many instances, the children do their own thing with their peers at school and int eh streets. Well then, let's reassess that old saying: "Charity begins at home."  

Admittedly, the US is a very complex society, where "a melting pot of cultures" strives. But, according to Mr. Anantanand Rambachan, Chairman of the Department of Religion at St. Olaf College in Minnesota, “Hinduism is the least understood religion among American religious traditions.” An immigrant from Trinidad, Mr. Rambachan was a speaker at the conference on Hinduism in America, in Minnesota a few years back.



The famous Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill, Queens

There are many reasons for the demoralization of the American Hindu society. Due to societal demands and trying economic times, in many Hindu homes, both mother and father are forced to work to make ends meet. A lot of their time and energy are directed towards juggling one task after another and not much quality time is spent with their children. There is not much official statistical data available to support this issue, but the facts speak for themselves. Just observe a Hindu family for a day to find out. In many Hindu homes, children are allowed to do things their way because of a lack of proper adult/parenting supervision. They watch a lot of TV with a strong influence of the Pop culture lifestyle; they play sometimes very violent video games; they listen to the latest Hip-Hop, string and heavy metal music and eat plenty of fast food, which are all easily accessible to them. This is the Westernized world they are growing up in and are sadly, embracing and can relate to.

Richmond Hill, Queens, New York, has a large population of Hindus who migrated from the West Indies and other parts of the world. Indeed, they have made great economic strides over the years. Many open and manage their own successful businesses in the community, which are lined on Liberty Avenue. Unfortunately, the famous avenue is home also to many night clubs, bars and lounges. On any given Saturday night, most of the popular hangout spots for the youngsters in the Richmond Hill area, is packed to capacity with young men and women: drinking, smoking, dancing and partying. Many of them are Hindus. Guess what? On the Sunday mornings, the turnouts at the mandirs are just the handful of the faithfuls – call them the frequent mandir-goers. The others are sleeping their hang-overs from the night before. This is just one scenario.

Acharya Krishna Moorty, the spiritual head at the Chinmaya Mission in New York, believes that one of the issues that Hindus face in the US is not knowing, “how to balance the standard of living with the standard of life. Acharyaji explains that the “standard of living is a measure of our lifestyle” which include, “education and skills, comforts, conveniences, financial security, objective pleasures and sensual indulgences, aimed towards happiness in life.”

On the other hand, he adds that the standard of life is a “measure of our faith, belief, values, attitudes, character, inner peace of mind, happiness, satisfaction and completeness, aimed towards happiness of life.” He points out that both are necessary, however, Hindus have to learn to prioritize their lives.

Young American Hindus also have issues to contend with. One of their main arguments is that Sanatan Dharma is confusing and too complicated because of the many Gods and Goddesses to be worshipped. Further, they pointed out that the rituals are many, lengthy and time-consuming. Then, there is the language barrier. Many of them, particularly those from the Diaspora, understand and speak only English. Therefore, they cannot grasp the meanings of the prayers, mantras or bhajans since these are written in either Sanskrit or Hindi. For these reasons, some young American Hindus feel reluctant to to practice their religion, others feel ill-informed about their religion and there are many who do not even identify themselves as Hindus.

Many of them have adapted the American lifestyle to blend in the American society because it is easier to do. Another major setback for American Hindus is that many of the Hindu festivals, such as Deepavali and Phagwah, are not recognized in their schools and well, mainstream America, for that matter. Celebrations for these festivals have to be performed in the evenings or on weekends, when it is more convenient for the families and mandirs to conduct such pujas. These are critical issues that have caused a major breakdown in the rich Hindu family tradition and also, one of the many reasons for youngsters to go astray. As a result, many young American Hindus are loosing their identity in the process.

Acharyaji asks the hard questions: “Identity, who are we?” Then, he throws in the million dollar question, “How can we really blend with the American society and still retain our identity?”

That has been a major roadblock for many American Hindu families. However, for every problem there is a solution. Acharyaji believes that “the solution depends on the assimilation the good values of both cultures and asserting our own heritage against aggressive cultures,” adding that “at the same time tolerating certain inadequacies and human errors in interacting with other faiths and culture.”

In most isntances, there is a solution to every problem, American Hindus have to seek them out. More than ever before, there is a need to have a unilateral system in place whereby all mandirs in the US are affiliated with one umbrella organization that would monitor the works of all mandirs across the country. This is a huge challenge by itself, but the dividends to be gained would be worthwhile. This parent body would have a long list of responsibilities to oversee, one main one being, to act as a mediator and a peace negotiator for the countless mandirs that are currently fighting their “Mahabharata wars” via a court system that does not understand their cultural values. The idea for an umbrella body would also bring a sense of uniformity among all the Hindu religious institutions and would admittedly, cause less conflict when calculating the correct dates for Hindu festivals for the calendar. Wouldn’t it be great if all mandirs in the US were to celebrate Deepavali or Shiva Ratri on the same day?

Next, the parent body needs to come up a set of basic rules for individuals interested in becoming pandits. This is a very contentious situation among the Hindus in the US and further afield and have to be addressed now or in the near future. Pandits must be properly educated, must be literate in speaking, writing and understanding Hindi and Sanskrit, must know how to perform major pujas and parbs, must be versed in Hindu scriptural texts, not only the Puranas, but also the Upanishads, which is the end part of the Vedas. The Upanishads contains the highest spiritual truths, which is criteria for liberation from mundane exitence. Pandtis must be groomed and nurtured from a very young age and must mostly certainly, conduct themselves in a morally upright manner. It is not a bad idea to give them a written test before they can practice ‘panditai’ work in the community. There are too many unqualified people calling themselves pandits who are misleading the Hindu population. This needs to be stopped.

Another pivotal issue that has to be addressed, now or later, is the one on the construction of Hindu schools in the community. It is imperative that the Hindu community pools its efforts, resources, money, time and energy together to work towards establishing Hindu schools and Hindu Universities in the US, in order to educate and nurture the growing young Hindu population. There is a demand for such institutions and the benefits therein are inumerable. Learning the Hindu concepts and ideas from a young age at a reputable Hindu school would encourage American Hindus to practice their religious beliefs with a sense of pride and joy. The only way they would be able to do that is if all or most of their misconceptions of Sanatan Dharma are removed and they understood this dynamic religion that is theirs. As the Mahatma once said, “A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the souls of its people.” (Bina Mahabir)


Another view of Liberty Avenue



HATHA YOGA - AN INTERNATIONAL PHENOMENON!

Yoga has become an international phenomenon - overnight it seems. Whichever corner of the globe you may be residing at, you must have heard of yoga. Often time, the word Yoga is being used too loosely and at other times, some people don't even understand the deeper, true meaning of yoga. This article is written in "layman terms" with the intention of shedding some light to the lesser informed folks out there on the subject in the community.

So, what is yoga?

Yoga has many dimensions and basically, when many people are talking about it, they're referring to Hatha Yoga, which are the many, many body postures referred to as Asanas. Asanas in itself has been categorized into different groups with specific results for different peoples' needs.

Admittedly, yoga is not an easy subject to write on, with so much information already out there, but it needs to be written in simple language for all to grasp.

In an article posted on the website, www.abc-of-yoga.com, hatha yoga was by Yogi Swatmarama in ancient India.

(Will continue on this later)    

CELEBRATING OUR INDENTURED ANCESTORS' RICH HISTORY

                                          Dr. Basdeo Mangru delivering his keynote address

The Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of New York organized an event to celebrate the "Indian Arrival Day" of our Indian Indentured Ancestors to the West Indies to Guyana. This year marked the 174th years of our  ancestors' dynamic history and rich heritage to the West Indies. The event was held at the mandir, located at 104-22 114th Street, Richmond Hill in Queens, NY, on Sunday May 6th.

Such celebrations are held in the different countries in the Global Indian Diaspora, where over a century ago, the British plantation owners took the Indians from India as indentured laborers to "toil and sweat" in their sugar plantations. In British Guiana, slavery was abolished in 1834, after which the African slaves refused to work in the plantations. The plantation landlords found themselves in a quagmire; they scrambled to fill that gap with cheap laborers from Europe, but those attempts failed dismally. Finally, they turned to India to import cheap laborers. India was also under British rule, so their work was made easy, especially, after they painted a rosy picture of "plenty food, plenty clothing and plenty money" for the laborers.

A section of the gathering

The executive body and members of the Sanaatan Dharma Mandir of New York planned this event to coincide with the "Indian Arrival Day" celebrations in Guyana, which is observed on May 5th and is a national holiday in that country. Previously known as British Guiana, the first two ships that arrived at Highbury, East Berbice were the Whitby and the Hesperus on May 5th, 1838. Indenturedship was a five-year contract, whereby the Indentured laborers were bound to work on the sugar plantations for five years before they were free to return to India if they could provide their own passage.

The children of our ancestors reading

It was a short but packed program at the mandir. The keynote speaker was Dr. Basdeo Mangru who is one of Guyana's and the West Indies' most distinguished historians. Dr. Mangru specialized in the Indentured ancestors' history in Guyana, a subject that is very close to his heart. He is the author of several books written on the Indentured laborers' history. His lecture was extremely well presented. He talked about how the recruitment process for the laborers started in India, the many voyages they made across the "Kala Pani" (which means Black Water) and their harsh struggles against the indentured system on the sugar plantations across the colony. It was a concise but well-documented history lesson on our indentured ancestors' experiences that many in the audience was not aware of.

The program was sprinkled with children of the mandir reading empowering statements about the rich characteristics of their indentured ancestors and the sterling contributions they made to Guyana to help in that country's socio-economic and political developemnt and their struggles for a free Guyana. The event was ended with a powerful and informative slideshow that depicted their hard but humble lives on the sugar estates. Pictures were shown of the ancestors' cutting canes, loading the sugar punts, living in their grass houses and fetching loads on the donkey-carts, among others. Mention was also made of the Kolkata Memorial and museum that is being built in India and spearheaded by GOPIO International in honor of the Indentured ancestors.