CHICAGO: Shree Jalaram Mandir in Hoffman Estates celebrated 4th Volunteer Appreciation Day with great attendance and enthusiasm on Saturday, January 11.
Bollywood music from local artists headed by Shaila Kedkar provided a sentimental evening with old and new songs, which made the whole atmosphere joyful. More than 235 volunteers enjoyed the special evening.
It was an appreciation for every single volunteer who devoted their time and energy towards the Mandir’s progress. At present, the Mandir has team of approximately 235 volunteers who are involved in various activities and perform duties with all their heart. Shree Jalaram Mandir is probably the only place where volunteers are formally recognized for their devotion and commitment. Rajendra Thakkar, the volunteer coordinator, urged the executive board of the Mandir to organize this event to recognize all the volunteers for their tireless service. Several volunteers prepared decorations for this event.
Prior to musical program, delicious Gujarati dinner was served. Rajendra Thakkar, welcomed all. The program was started with Deep-Pragatya by Priest Shree Katenbhai Jani along with the Executive Board members. Vipulbhai Thakkar did excellent job as Master of Ceremony.
The program was started by devoted singers Rajesh Chalan, Shaila Khedkar, Sreepathy and music was provided by Garvish.
Shree Jalaram Mandir was inaugurated on March 8, 2008. With the help of generous donations from many donors and volunteers $1.25 million dollars worth property was purchased. Kitchen is renovated, Elevator provided and Murti Pratishtha with extension is on way.
In between the program, there was break for Appreciation program. All Committee members were called upfront and proved Ham Saath Saath Hai.
All the artists were invited and introduced and were offered flowers and shawls. Rajendr Thakkar thanked all those who have helped in Mandir improvement work and those who assisted in accommodating the devotees with daily parking and seating arrangement. (In his speech there was lot of humor.)
There is no age requirement to perform Mandir Sava. Volunteers age group from 5 years to 75 years are working hard to fulfill the Mandir’s daily task. Ramanbhai is 75 years old. He makes daily packages for Prasad. Another person makes “Devate for Aarti”. Age group 5 and up such as Nidhi Patel, Yash Thakkar and Jay Thakkar help in miscellaneous Mandir work.
Musical program continued past midnight with a lot of songs requested by the audience. President Bhupendrabhai delivered Vote of Thanks starting with Thanking Pujya Bapa for giving the opportunity to serve him, all the artists for their voluntary services and sparing their valuable time
Trustees and office bearers of Shree Jalaram Mandir 2013-2014
Trust Board: Hashmukh Thakkar, Chairman; Yogesh Thakkar, Vice-Chairman; Chirayu Parikh,Secretary; Jashwant Patel, Comptroller; Dharmendra Thakkar, Treasurer; Chandu Thakkar; Ashwin Thakkar; Jigar Thakkar; Rajesh Thakkar; Madhusudan Thakkar; Harivadan Thakkar.
Executive Board: Bhupendra Thakkar, President; Rajendra Thakkar Vice-President; Vipul Thakkar, Secretary; Gopal (Dipak) Thakkar, Jigna Thakkar; Rakesh Thakkar; Rajesh Thakkar; Bakul Thakkar; Chandrakant Thakkar; Ramesh Thakkar.
Regular activities at the temple include Bhajans on every Thursday, first and third Sunday, Sunderkand path every Saturday, Abhishek on Mondays and on Ekadashi, group Satyanarayan Katha, Jalaram Jayanti, lectures of saints from India and celebrations of all religious events like Ram Navami, Janmashtmi, Navratri, Holi, Diwali and others.
Ekadashi. On the humanitarian side the temple arranges annual health camp, provides free flu shots, arranges blood donation. The Mandir provides monthly clinic Seva, which includes doctor’s consultation, laboratory tests and providing free generic medicines on an ongoing basis. Educationally, the activities include Math classes, Bharat Natyam, yoga classes, music teaching, India Culture (Indian history), Gujarati classes and religious classes.
Yogesh Thakkar & Asian Media USA
Thank You For Your Vote!
Sorry You have Already Voted!
