Balshala at the Hindu temple of Augusta

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Teachers Feature I may keep on going about how truly incredible this program is but nothing would speak of it as genuinely as someone who has been part of this program in THEIR childhood and still continue to value it by letting their kids join it and also lead it. Subha is no stranger to the community. Many of you know her as the girl with a beautiful warm smile and a positive vibe. She has always been active in everything that the temple has to offer. She has been the Coord...inator for this program for the last 2 years and has brought tremendous value. From planning the kids field trips to getting them to get hands-on experience at the post office and so much more.... Let's see what she has to say about herself. Please feel free to share something about her or a few words of encouragement. Hello. My name is Subha and Augusta has been my home since 1996. I grew up going to the Balshala program and am delighted to see the program still enriches children of our community with our religion, culture, values, and beliefs. My husband, Anurag and I have two boys who are both in middle school. Our boys went through the Balshala program for 6 years where I was actively involved as well. Although they are no longer in the program, I still love volunteering my time as a substitute teacher for Balshala. We love Augusta and the HTS community...can’t imagine raising our boys anywhere else!! During my free time, I enjoy watching movies, shopping, spending time with family and friends, traveling, dancing, and occasional baking (given that I don’t set the oven on fire)!

Teacher's feature: For any good thing to flourish, the most important role is with the the person who plants the seeds. It takes an expert eye and tons of devotion with lot of hard work. Today I'm not trying to introduce Vidya Sridharan Aunty but only making a humble effort for bringing back some memories. I also asked help from our team members to give her an introduction which she deserves. We're so grateful to your endless support ... Please feel free to leave some comments of encouragement or something you can share about her. Dr. Vidya Sridharan is a longtime member of the HTS community and has lived in Augusta for 30+ years. She has remained committed to the Balshala program since her arrival in Augusta and was the Balshala coordinator for over ten years starting in the early 1990s. She was instrumental in putting together the framework of prayers/mantras in the Balshala curriculum which is still used today. She has served the temple in many capacities including as its President as well as the Chair of the Board of Trustees. Along with her husband Dr. Sridharan she has been responsible for organizing several community events such as annual Venkateshwara Kalyana, Ramanavami celebrations etc. Her contributions and continued support of the temple's religious and cultural activities serve as an inspiration to all.

Teacher's feature: Despite of being a globe trotter, she is determined to give her time to community. We admire Nidhi's commitment and appreciate her contribution. Please share something about her or write some words of encouragement. Let's see what she has to tell us about herself. ... My name is Nidhi. This is my first year as a co- teacher with Dhruva group. Absolutely love the program and Dhruva kids. I truly appreciate the volunteers who help run the program successfully, parents for all the contributions and bringing your kids on Sunday morning.

Teacher's feature: Shama has been a part of Balshala for a good bit of time and has always stepped up to come forward and help. She's teaching the Lava group this year. Please feel free to share something about her or write a few lines of encouragement. Let's see what she has to share:... I’m SHAMA ,this is my fourth year as a parent of two kids enrolled in Balshala,after one year of their enrollment I chose to be volunteer as a teacher. I’m so glad and satisfied the way kids are learning about Hinduism ,tradition,culture and ethics of life. I’m full time working mom,Medical school graduate, Having double degree in medicine and surgery. I love spending quality time with two lovely kids and caring husband. During my leisure time, I enjoy cooking, traveling And volunteering community services.

Pujas and Events - Dec 19- Jan 3 Corrected - https://mailchi.mp//pujas-and-events-jan-31st-feb-8th-2554

Teacher's feature I'm so excited to introduce you all to an amazing and gracious friend who has not only stood up in helping temple at desperate times but also has always extended a hand to the ones in need. You see her as a Balshala teacher but she's also actively involved in other committees. Please share something about her or write a few lines of encouragement. Let's hear what she has to say:... Hello. My name is Sharada Patel. Our family moved to Augusta in 2015 and our 10 year old son is in his 5th year at Balshaala which I’ve been assisting and teaching since 3 years. When I learnt about Balshaala the parent in me was delighted to have found a similar program I was associated with during my childhood. A program like this with such an impressive curriculum, I believe lays a strong foundation for our morals and values by teaching about our rich culture and tradition in a fun and interactive manner. Our family is blessed to be a part of Augusta Hindu Temple Society which provides spiritual and social support to its members. Some of the things I enjoy are cooking , baking and sharing a good meal with family and friends .

Teacher's feature She's someone who always greets you with a warm smile and a good heart. I've seen her always helping others and stepping up in every possible way. I think we all will agree for that with me for Sonal Patel. Please feel free to write some words of encouragement or something about her. This is what she has to say:... My name is s Sonal. We have been in Augusta for 5 years. Kids and I have been part of Balshala for 4 years. Teaching Kusha group for last 3 years and hoping to stay with this group for many more years. Love to be part of Balshala.

Pujas and Events - Nov 15 - Nov. 30 - https://mailchi.mp//pujas-and-events-jan-31st-feb-8th-2517