Raj Iyer
ST LOUIS: The annual celebration by Bal Vihar of Diwali by St Louis on Sunday, November 19, 2023. Has been an eagerly awaited and cherished event with children and families in a night of festivity and purpose.
The sight of all Bal Vihar students, teachers and volunteers dressed up in their gorgeous India attire made the aura around Hindu Temple of St. Louis very colorful and lively. The evening commenced with Laxmi Puja, performed by the Bal Vihar students at the Hindu Temple. Students brought the clay diyas they crafted during “Donate A Diya” charitable initiative that Bal Vihar organizes every year. Their vibrant clay diyas created a captivating display during the puja.
Following this spiritual ceremony, families indulged in a delightful dinner, setting the stage for the grand finale – lighting the fireworks! Each child was handed a small bag filled with fireworks, igniting a colorful celebration shared with friends and family.
Diwali is also a time for Dana (Donation) or Sewa (Service). “Donate a Diya” – one of Bal Vihar’s annual charitable events, raised $2000 this year that will be donated to “Asha for Education” and “Shankar Netralaya”, institutions that are serving the underprivileged for many years.
This year’s Diwali spirit of giving also took a new meaning as the community came together for a drive to help grow the registry of Indian origin blood stem cell donors and to find a match for a young 9-year student Bal Vihar that needs bone marrow transplant.
Bal Vihar acknowledges the invaluable contribution of its dedicated teachers, volunteers, parents, and the Events/Logistics team. Their collective effort ensures the continuity of cultural celebrations and community support.
The Center for Indian Cultural Education – Bal Vihar of St. Louis is a cultural school designed to promote, instill, and foster Indian culture in children ages 5 to 18. Bal Vihar encourages the youth group (ages 13 and above) to participate in activities that promote respect and understanding of different cultures and religion.
Bal Vihar has been in existence since 1992 and its current enrollment is over 300 students. Visit www.balvihar-stlouis.com for more information about Bal Vihar
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