CHICAGO: Right after a vibrant Lohri, Hari Om Mandir buzzed with activity once again on January 28 celebrating three events at one time –Basant Panchami, Saraswati Pooja and the Republic Day of India. The temple was beautifully decorated to highlight the three different themes and keep up the spirit of each festival.
Yellow, the color of Basant, was seen to dominate –yellow flowers, people dressed in yellow, yellow food served as Prasad & Langar, the Deities adorned in yellow. The walls were also decorated with kites flying high, to revive old memories from back home, when kite flying competitions were held on Basant. The Indian Tricolor and the American Flag were also displayed with pride to commemorate the 69th Republic Day of India.
This Day is also considered to be the auspicious day for Maa Saraswati – the Goddess of Wisdom, Learning & Knowledge. In order to bless children, a special Saraswati Pooja was organized by the Temple Management. Priests, Pt Raghubir Dave and Pt Dharmendra Brahmbhatt, recited Shlokas and sang Vandana in praise of Maa Saraswati
A group of singers led by Bharat Dhutia, Shailender Bhatnagar, Geeta Dhutia and Atwal, sang beautiful songs to commemorate Republic Day and Basant. The soulful rendering of the song, “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon” by Darshana Patel brought tears to the eyes. Other popular numbers like “Mera Rang De Basanti Chola” was sung by Atwal. Young Children from the HOM Hindi class sang the Stuti of Maa Saraswati
The program concluded with the singing of the Indian National Anthem, saluting the soldiers, echoing slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Matram”. Last but not the least, a sumptuous lunch was served, which was relished by one and all.
Suresh Bodiwala
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