Raj Iyer
ST LOUIS: Bal Vihar celebrated its Diwali on Sunday, November 6, 2022 at the Hindu Temple of St. Louis and on the grounds of Mahatma Gandhi Center. All the children from Kindergarten to High School Seniors were dressed in beautiful Indian attire and that was a sight to be seen. Warm weather made it even better as students and their families didn’t have to bundle themselves.
As is the tradition at Bal Vihar – students make Diyas during their class as part of “Donate A Diya” project that raises funds for the underprivileged and needy. Bal Vihar Art teachers with help from classroom teachers and parent volunteers lead the efforts. Students bring the Diya they make to the Diwali Puja.
The Event started with puja at the Hindu Temple of St. Louis led by the priests. The priest guided students on how to perform the puja and recite the shlokas. He also provided the background and explained various aspects and significance of the Puja.
Parent volunteers have been the backbone of successful execution of all Bal Vihar events. As the children were busy performing Puja, a group of dedicated Bal Vihar volunteers were packing the boxes of food and preparing for distribution of food boxes and fireworks. Volunteers distributed dinner boxes after the puja was over and the children were rushing to get their hands on the firecrackers.
Volunteer had cordoned off the fireworks area and earmarked a section only for families with very young children for the safety of everyone. Soon after the fireworks were distributed, the entire space was lit up with firecrackers in the backdrop of glowing temple illuminated with colorful lighting.
The joy on the faces of children and parents was unparallel. Children were enjoying the sparkles and other variety of ground firecrackers. Towards the end, the fireworks committee put together a spectacular show that was breathtaking.
Center for Indian Cultural Education – Bal Vihar of St. Louis is a non-profit organization. Since its inception in 1992 it has been serving the Metro St. Louis Indian community. Over last 25+ years Bal Vihar has helped groom a breed of multi-cultural global leaders of next generation that have been shaped by the best of the cultures from east and west. These youngsters understand the need and value of the cultural values that have been instilled in them through the rigorous program.” For more information or to support, visit www.balvihar-stlouis.com.
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