Since its incorporation 25 years ago, SWAHA continues to be the light of knowledge and spiritual sustenance to spiritual seekers throughout our nation and beyond our borders. SWAHA’s contributions towards building better individuals in a developed society have been nurtured through our religious centres and affiliates, educational institutions and children’s home.
While our organisation is centred on aiding the spiritual journey of each individual, SWAHA recognises that this goal is inevitably intertwined with the individual’s physical, mental and social development. To encourage the development of the complete individual, SWAHA has been conducting a variety of programmes aimed at self-improvement and growth in each of these essential spheres. Amidst the turbulence of a changing environment, these programmes are steered by SWAHA’s spiritual leaders, the Diksha Gurus (the teachers who have initiated their students onto the path of spirituality), Kul Gurus (the family priests)and Vidya Gurus (the teachers who guide the students in secular knowledge) who help to provide stability to each individual’s ship as he or she journeys towards enlightenment.
A Religious Journey
From its beginnings at the Gyaan Deepak Kirtan Mandali in Aranguez, with the leadership of the late Shankaracharya, Pt. Hari Prasad, SWAHA grew over the years to include religious centres of worship throughout the country. These mandirs include the Sukh Shanti Bhakti Mandali in St. Augustine, SWAHA Sri Raam Dhaam in Diego Martin, SWAHA Gyaan Jyoti Mandali in Cunupia, SWAHA Divya Ashram in Preysal and Tulsi Manas Mandir in Sangre Grande. Since 2008, the Paramacharya Pt. Hardeo Persad has led the body of pundits of SWAHA as they provide spiritual guidance to devotees at home and abroad.
As we collectively strive towards attaining this state of self-realisation, members congregate regularly at our temples, diving into the spiritual pond of weekly service and observances, such as Maha Shiva Raatri, Nav Raatri, Raam Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Guru Purnima and Krishen Janamashtami, all led by SWAHA’s Gurus. These profoundly symbolic observances, aimed at strengthening the mind and intellect to ably face life’s challenges, resonate with thousands of participating devotees.
Educational Service
SWAHA Hindu College opened its doors in the heart of Sangre Grande in 2001. At that time there were 105 students and nine teachers with classes located at the Tulsi Manas Mandir, led by the then principal and spiritual leader of the mandir, Pt. Balram Persad.
Today, SWAHA Hindu College, now located in its own building in Sangre Grande, nurtures its students in the educational, religious, cultural, creative and athletic fields. Students perform
havan each week, led by the principal, Pt. Ishwar Madho Maharaj and supported by the vice principal, Mrs. Ambika Maharaj and other teachers. All religious and cultural observances are celebrated and the students shine on the national scene, winning awards in various areas. Our appreciation is extended to the retired principal of SWAHA Hindu College, Pundit Gyandeo Persad, who has built on the works of Pt. Balram Persad. Together they have provided distinguished service in the fields of education and organizational administration.
SWAHA provides quality early childhood care and education (ECCE) and enabling learning environments to our pre-schoolers in its ECCE centres, namely SWAHA Aranjuez ECCE Centre, SWAHA Mohess Road ECCE Centre (Penal), SWAHA Preysal ECCE Centre and SWAHA Sangre Grande ECCE Centre.
Cultural Activities
Amidst our mélange of rich cultural expositions, our annual Indian Arrival Day Swadeshi celebrations involve various competitions in visual and performing arts. Hundreds of infants, youngsters and adults take advantage of the many opportunities for developing instrumental, public speaking, vocal and craft talents. Through programmes such as these, the traditions and values of our ancestors are brought to life, and our gratitude to them is expressed through the enhancement of these traditions.
Sports Day
The body is the vehicle through which we attain all spiritual growth. With this in mind, SWAHA holds an annual Sports and Family Day. Hundreds of participants from all SWAHA temples and schools attend this event. It is a joyous sight to behold the March Past parade comprising the tiny tots of our ECCE centres, the students of our primary and secondary schools as well as the mixed-aged temple teams. Keen competition, discipline, teamwork, patience and resilience, all in the spirit of fun and camaraderie, characterise the day’s events. These factors are integral to the development of body, mind and spirit which is the objective behind such activities.
SWAHA’s Children’s Home – Vishok Bhavan
In seeking to advocate and protect the right of every child to a safe, loving and wholesome environment, the SWAHA Vishok Bhavan Children’s Home (meaning ‘a home free of worry’) was established at Penal in 2008 with a resident capacity of thirty two. SWAHA also holds the view that service to man is service to God and offers its members the opportunity to serve as volunteers in numerous ways.
As we all journey towards fulfilling our highest potential, it is useful to remember that we may not be able to change the world but we can change our world. Go within, seek the Divine and develop spiritually.
