Dear Parents,
During the month of October, we had three Balavihar sessions (October 3rd, 10th, and 24th). Throughout these classes, we continued our study of Bālakāṇḍa from the Ramayana and began our new values curriculum topic, "The Key to Success."
Below is a summary of what the children learned this month.
Ramayana – Bālakāṇḍa Highlights
1. Rama's Training and First Victories
-
The children learned how Sage Viśvāmitra trained Rama in the use of divine astras.
-
Rama defeated Tātakā and later protected the sage's yajña by overcoming Mārīcha and Subāhu.
-
We discussed how these events show Rama's courage, obedience, and sense of duty.
2. Journey to Mithila
-
On the way to King Janaka's kingdom, Rama and Lakshmana encountered the story of Ahalyā.
-
Rama released Ahalyā from her curse, highlighting compassion and the power of purity.
-
The class learned about the significance of Mithila, a land of knowledge and dharma.
3. Sita's Swayamvara
-
Children heard how Rama lifted and broke Lord Shiva's bow, fulfilling Janaka's vow.
-
Rama married Sita, and his brothers married Janaka's relatives:
-
Bharata – Mandavi
-
Lakshmana – Urmila
-
Shatrughna – Shrutakirti
-
4. Return to Ayodhya
-
We concluded with the joyous return to Ayodhya and the prosperous beginning of Rama and Sita's married life.
Saraswati Pooja – October 10th
-
The children participated in a Saraswati Pooja in the main assembly hall.
-
They learned the steps of performing a simple pooja, its meaning, and the importance of offering gratitude to Goddess Saraswati.
Values Curriculum – "The Key to Success"
We introduced the concept of the Master Key—just like one key can open many doors, Self-Knowledge is the master key that opens the doors to clarity, fairness, and happiness in life. We brought these concepts to life with the following stories
Story 1 – The Entrepreneur and His Son
-
The children learned that true fairness and right action come from self-knowledge and understanding oneness.
-
Key Insight: The Master Key of Life is knowing the Self, which helps us act with fairness and goodness.
Story 2 – The Majestic Horse
-
A divine horse wished for a different appearance and ended up becoming a camel.
-
Lesson: Happiness does not come from constantly wanting more.
Gratitude and acceptance help us experience true happiness.
Bhagavad Gita Chanting
-
In October, the class continued Chapter 15 chanting.
-
The children learned Verses 2 through 8, practicing two verses in each session.
