Guru Govind Singh was born in Patna on December 22, 1666. His father was Guru Tegh Bahadur, and his mother was Mata Gujri. From childhood, young Govind was trained not only in religious studies but also in languages, literature, horse riding, archery, and swordsmanship. As he grew up, wisdom, devotion, and courage became integral to his character. During the reign of Aurangzeb, religious pressure on Hindus intensified; in particular, there were attempts to forcibly convert Kashmiri Hindus to Islam. Seeking to preserve their faith, Kashmiri Pandits turned to Guru Tegh Bahadur for help. They recounted their plight and implored him to protect them from forced conversions. Moved by their situation, Guru Tegh Bahadur resolved to take a stand. He determined that faith could not be imposed by force and that an individual's right to practice their beliefs according to their own will must be upheld. He prepared to go to Delhi personally to confront this injustice. Before setting out, he appointed his nine-year-old son, Govind Rai, as Guru. While traveling towards Delhi, Guru Tegh Bahadur was taken prisoner by Mughal officials. His disciples—Bhai Mati Das, Bhai Dayal Das, and Bhai Sati Das—were also captured. They were detained and subjected to torture. After being held in the Sirhind region for some time, they were taken to Delhi. There, Guru Tegh Bahadur was presented with two choices: embrace Islam or face death. Guru Tegh Bahadur refused to abandon his faith. His accompanying disciples were also subjected to horrific torture; Bhai Mati Das was sawn alive, Bhai Dayal Das was killed by being immersed in boiling water, and Bhai Sati Das was burned alive. Yet, they did not renounce their faith. Guru Tegh Bahadur, too, remained unyielding until the very end. Ultimately, he was publicly beheaded in Delhi. The sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur stands as a monumental chapter in the history of defending “Dharma” in India. For this reason, he is revered as "Hind di Chadar"—a protective shield for India. Bhai Jaita, risking his own life, brought the Guru's severed head to Anandpur. Witnessing his father's sacrifice at such a tender age left an indelible mark on Govind Rai's life. Following his father's sacrifice, Govind Rai assumed the mantle of Guruship at the young age of nine. Despite his youth, he did not falter. He believed that upholding Dharma required not only devotion but also knowledge, courage, discipline, and the ability to use force when necessary. Over time, Guru Govind Singh emerged as a great spiritual teacher, poet, writer, and warrior. His mission was to dispel fear among the people and instill self-confidence. He sought to build a society that would not remain silent in the face of injustice but would stand up for righteousness (Dharma). In 1699, on the occasion of Baisakhi at Anandpur Sahib, Guru Govind Singh took a historic decision: he founded the Khalsa Panth. He created a community that transcended distinctions of caste, social status, and wealth, fostering a way of life rooted in courage, discipline, service, and adherence to righteousness. He championed the ideal of the "Sant-Sipahi" (Saint-Soldier), embodying a blend of spiritual devotion and martial strength. Protecting the weak, confronting injustice, and remaining ever ready to uphold righteousness became the core responsibilities of the Khalsa way of life. During this period, Guru Govind Singh's family life also became intertwined with the cause of upholding righteousness (Dharma). He had four sons: Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh, and Fateh Singh. Their grandmother was Mata Gujri. From a young age, these children were instilled with the values of courage, devotion, and a commitment to righteousness. Later, the pressure from Mughal forces on Anandpur Sahib intensified. Eventually, Guru Govind Singh was compelled to leave Anandpur with his followers. During the journey, the family became separated. Guru Govind Singh reached Chamkaur accompanied by his two eldest sons, Ajit Singh and Jujhar Singh. A fierce battle with the Mughal army ensued. Ajit Singh was about 17 years old, while Jujhar Singh was around 13. Both entered the battlefield in their father's presence. Despite the overwhelming enemy numbers, they did not retreat; they fought valiantly and attained martyrdom. At this time, the younger sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, became separated from the rest of the group along with their grandmother, Mata Gujri. Officials in Sirhind took them into custody. Pressure was exerted on the young boys to abandon their faith and embrace Islam. Although they were offered wealth, comforts, and honor, they refused. Despite their tender age, their devotion to their faith stood as steadfast as a mountain. Ultimately, the young Sahibzadas were executed by being bricked up alive within a wall. Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh made this supreme sacrifice at approximately eight and five, respectively. Upon hearing this news, Mata Gujri also breathed her last. The anguish Guru Govind Singh endured as a father was immense. He lost his father and all four of his sons; one by one, he lost his most beloved family members for the sake of Dharma (righteousness). Yet, he never lost his courage. Personal grief did not weaken him; instead, it made him stand even more steadfast for the cause of Dharma. That is why he is revered as "Sarbans Dani"—the noble soul who sacrificed his all. Later, Guru Gobind Singh wrote a famous letter to Aurangzeb known as the Zafarnama. In it, he questioned Aurangzeb about breaking promises made in battle, violating oaths, and his unjust conduct. Through his words, he made it clear that no matter how great power might be, it does not surpass Dharma and justice. Eventually, Guru Govind Singh arrived at Nanded. Realizing that defeating Guru Govind Singh in open combat was impossible, two Muslim fanatics—Jamshed Khan and Wasil Beg—infiltrated his camp in disguise. Pretending to be disciples, they waited for a vulnerable moment and treacherously stabbed him with a sword. Guru Govind Singh was critically injured; although the wound appeared to heal initially, it later worsened, and he passed away on October 7, 1708. Yet, even in his final days, Guru Govind Singh made a momentous decision. Instead of appointing another individual as his successor, he declared the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru. In doing so, he paved the way for the Guru's teachings, wisdom, and message of righteousness to endure. Guru Govind Singh’s life was not merely a saga of the tragedies a single family faced. His father sacrificed his life for righteousness (Dharma), a responsibility a nine-year-old boy then shouldered. As he reached adulthood, he united society. His four sons laid down their lives for righteousness, yet he never wavered from his chosen path. In our times, we may not need to sacrifice our lives. However, we can embody the courage he demonstrated in our own lives. We can understand our Dharma, learn about our culture, and teach it to our children. We can protect temples and religious traditions, serve society, and dedicate our time, knowledge, energy, and abilities to the cause of Dharma. The life of Guru Govind Singh teaches us that age is no barrier to standing up for Dharma; it shows that a person possessing courage, steadfastness, and a spirit of sacrifice can transform their very life into a powerful message. Certainly. In keeping with the narrative, I have structured this according to the predetermined three-part 'Teacher Task' format: five questions and answers for the "Post-Story Discussion," a section for children to express their own thoughts under "Self-Expression," and a truly actionable activity for the "Practical Task." Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979 {{album_1669}}

With the preservation of Sanatana Dharma as its lifeblood and the cultural empowerment of future generations as its driving mission, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) has kicked off its comprehensive 8-day grassroots field tour with great momentum across the sacred soil of Eluru. Led by GHHF National General Secretary Sri Rajesh Thunuguntla alongside North Andhra In-charge Sri Surya Ramakrishna Thota, the tour’s very first day infused fresh vigor and confidence into the local Hindu community through a seamless integration of spiritual outreach, cultural preservation, and lawful activism. The journey commenced in Gollagudem village of Eluru district, where an intimate gathering of Hindu karyakarthas took place at the sacred Sri Rama Temple. Organized under the leadership of district coordinators Sri P. Venkateswara Rao and Smt. G. Manjusri, the meeting served as an important platform to review the organizational expansion and evaluate the progress of Bala Samskara Kendras—initiatives committed to nurturing timeless spiritual and cultural values in young children—while laying down clear strategic milestones for future work. Following this, the delegation visited Thirumalampalem village, where local villagers expressed an ardent desire to revitalize community Bhajan traditions across village shrines and requested essential musical instruments, including cymbals (Taalams) and traditional percussion (Dappu). Sri Rajesh Thunuguntla promptly assured them that GHHF would wholeheartedly support every effort to reawaken spiritual consciousness in rural temples and arrange the necessary musical paraphernalia without delay. By evening, the GHHF delegation arrived in Kadiyadda village of Tadepalligudem Mandal, West Godavari district, receiving a resolute welcome from local residents. Kadiyadda stands as a testament to unflinching grassroots perseverance: an unauthorized "Bible Mission Church" had operated there without lawful permits for over 16 years, causing sustained distress to local households. GHHF provided steadfast legal stewardship and institutional backing to frontline local fighters Sri Attuluri Rajesh and Sri Annem Satyanarayana throughout a rigorous four-year legal struggle, culminating in a historic breakthrough when authorities officially sealed the illegal premises pursuant to High Court directives. Interacting with the villagers, Sri Rajesh Thunuguntla emphatically declared that putting a seal on the building is merely an initial milestone, not the end of the road. Reaffirming GHHF's unyielding stance, he stressed that the fight will continue unabated until the illegal structure on 240 square yards of government assigned land is completely demolished in accordance with the Tahsildar’s official resumption orders. Assuring the village youth and community elders of ongoing legal interventions against administrative inertia, GHHF reiterated its pledge to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Hindus until absolute justice prevails. With this blend of spiritual awakening, institutional solidarity, and steadfast resistance to illegal incursions, the opening day of the field tour concluded on a triumphant note. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979   {{album_1668}}

GHHF - Oct 5 on “Islam, Democracy and Hindu Ideals: Is Bharat Ready to Protect Hindus?” English: https://youtu.be/UQQfZofYxSg Telugu: https://youtu.be/OocZHz7xIks Hindi: https://youtu.be/xi5A6PPrZ70 Punjabi: https://youtu.be/Gex5Jtdj65k Bengali: https://youtu.be/9uhdkn2uqWE Paula and Clara Jobs adopted Steve Jobs. His father, a machinist and mechanic, influenced him. He used to work at a workbench, taking apart and rebuilding electronics, thereby developing an appreciation for craftsmanship, mechanical precision, and good design. He enrolled in Reed College and dropped out. He said, “I didn't have a dorm room, so I slept on the floor in friends' rooms; I returned Coke bottles for the 5¢ deposits to buy food; and I walked the 7 miles across town every Sunday night to get one good meal a week at the Hare Krishna temple. I loved it.” Two Books Influenced him Steve Jobs came across Ram Dass’s “Be Here Now” during his first semester at Reed College in late 1972. After reading Harvard professor Ram Das’s “Be Here Now” and Paramahamsa Yogananda’s “Autobiography of a Yogi”, Steve Jobs traveled to India in 1974 with a friend, Dan Kottke, who later became Apple’s first employee. His trip to India was disappointing and revelatory at once, as he himself realized and recounted: “We weren’t going to find a place where we could go for a month to be enlightened.” Yet in a far more important sense, during his short fling into various Indian aÌ„shrams, Steve picked up the importance of cultivating inner centeredness and composure and looking at the world from the inside out. This orientation seemed to have served him well throughout his life as a leader of Apple. Larry Brilliant, a lifelong friend of Steve Jobs, said, “He was searching for the same thing all of us search for, what we’re still searching for, the meaning of life, why we live, how we can do anything good in our lifetimes.” He was also searching for raw food, as Brilliant puts it — “Where the hell am I going to get a good salad?” “Be Here Now” was the book about Neem Karoli Baba. Then Robert Friedland told us about the Kumbh Mela in Hardwar/Rishikesh in the summer of 1974, which became the springboard for deciding to go. Steve Jobs and his friend Kottke went to India, wore khaki kurtas and lungis, trying to blend in. Then they went to Kainchi near Neem Karoli’s ashram. They tried smoking hemp. But as they say, “But really it was the books that had the most interest for us. I remember carrying around the Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa, The Book and The Way of Zen by Alan Watts, the Diamond Sutra, and the Dharma Bums by (Jack) Kerouac.” How did the trip to India influence them? Kottke said, “I think the trip influenced us both in a general sense of broadening our experience of life on earth and putting our lives in the US in a wider perspective.” Both were sick, suffering from diarrhea and fatigue. But those seven months influenced those seeking spiritual enlightenment, deepening their lifelong interest in Eastern philosophy and minimalism. His biographer, Walter Isaacson, wrote that the greatest influence on Steve Jobs, however, was the book Autobiography of a Yogi— “the guide to meditation and spirituality that he had first read as a teenager,” “then re-read in India and had read once a year ever since.” Isaacson mentions it was the only book Steve downloaded on his personal iPad2. Steve’s credo, “Actualize yourself,” seems to come directly from Yogananda’s philosophy of Self-realization. (realize, portray, objectify yourself). Jobs found himself deeply influenced by a variety of books on spirituality and enlightenment, most notably “Be Here Now,” a guide to meditation and the wonders of psychedelic drugs by Baba Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert. “It was profound,” Jobs said. “It transformed me and many of my friends.” Steve Jobs learned important lessons from the book: the importance of holy curiosity and a sense of wonder, self-effort, self-realization, and, above all, fearlessness in facing life and death.  Jobs, who in his 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech memorably described death as “very likely the single best invention of life,” departed from this world exclaiming: “Oh wow. Oh wow. Oh wow.” In the same speech, signaling the importance of loving what we do, he noted, “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” To conclude, we would highlight a few points from his lifestyle: he was a vegetarian, practiced yoga routinely, and was known for his strong love and compassion for animals. These seem so connected to Hinduism, don’t they? Intuition Marc Benioff, Salesforce CEO, said Steve Jobs’s keys to success were the spiritual qualities he developed. “He went to India,” said Benioff, “And he had this incredible realization that his intuition was his greatest gift, and that he needed to look at the world from the inside out.” "I look at Steve as a very spiritual person," he added. "[Steve] had this incredible realization--that his intuition was his greatest gift and he needed to look at the world from the inside out." He deeply valued and trusted intuition. He used to say, don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” Benioff even stated that, "If you look back at the history of Steve and that early trip to India...he had this incredible realization that his intuition was his greatest gift." "He needed to look at the world from the inside out...his message was to look inside yourself and realize yourself." "Yogananda...had this book on self-realization.... [Steve's] last message to us was that here is Yogananda's book.... Actualize yourself. Stanford University Speech Steve Jobs delivered a motivating speech at Stanford University about simple living and high thinking, which became a sensation. While addressing Stanford University graduates, he shared three life-changing stories that really moved them. The first story was about connecting the dots, the second about love and loss, and the third about his belief in Karma. “Again, you can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust everything: your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in life”. Last gift – Autobiography of a Yogi When he came to know that he had cancer and might not live long, he carefully planned his funeral, prepared the list of guests to be invited to the funeral, and the kind of gift he wanted to give. Hundreds of influential leaders in business, politics, and popular culture were introduced to Paramahamsa Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi at the 2011 memorial service for Steve Jobs, at the express wish of the late business visionary and founder of Apple Computer, who passed away on October 5, 2011. Benioff told his story of attending the memorial service following Jobs’ death, where the attendees were handed a small brown box on their way out. ‘This is going to be good,’ he thought. ‘I knew that this was a decision he made, and whatever it was, it was the last thing he wanted us all to think about.’ “The box contained a copy of Paramahamsa Yogananda’s book, Autobiography of a Yogi. It was a spiritual book that inspired Jobs throughout his life.  First published in 1946, the book espouses ‘self-realization’ and the practice of Kriya Yoga meditation. “We need to all be working on actualizing ourselves,” Benioff added. “If you want to understand Steve, it’s a good idea to dig into it [Autobiography of a Yogi]. He was not afraid to take that key journey.” Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

On September 30th, a Muslim copilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the Flydubai plane and kill all 174 passengers and 6 crew. According to Israeli officials, the first officer, an Omani national, stabbed captain Smit Machchhar (from Mumbai, India) and tried to sabotage the aircraft’s systems. Witnesses said the plane entered a tailspin and began to dive. Passengers and crew entered the cockpit, restrained the attacker, and enabled a second pair of Flydubai pilots on board to land the plane in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. It is not an isolated incident. These incidents will be flooding across the globe, bleeding humanity. Hindus have not learned from history about the untold cruelty, relentless terrorism, repeated attacks on Hindu Temples, continuous raping of Hindu women, constant insults to Hindu Gods, incessant noise pollution through Azaan, and the transmission of Hindu hatred through madrasas, inflicted on Hindus for more than seven hundred years. Hindus are more responsible for allowing them to wage war against Hindus. The stupidity of Hindus is endless. They still support politicians who are openly supporting Pakistan and Muslim terrorists for their selfish interests.  Muslims are taking advantage of these politicians’ weakness and dismantling the richness of Hindu civilization.  Pahalgam terrorism is only the tip of the iceberg. They have plans to make Bharat an Islamic country. Almost every day, these Muslim leaders openly talk about conquering India. The People's Federation of India has a plan to take over India by 2047 by equipping every house with guns, rifles, rocks, wooden sticks, and materials to make bombs. Muslim leaders repeatedly and openly announce that they will take over Bharat by 2047. Will Durant describes the Islamic rule in India as a tumultuous period marked by significant violence and cultural transformation. He characterizes the Muslim conquests, particularly from the 10th to the 13th centuries, as some of the bloodiest events in history, leading to profound changes in Indian society and governance. Will Durant, the famous historian, summed it up like this: "The Islamic conquest of India is probably the bloodiest story in history. It is a discouraging tale, for its evident moral is that civilization is a precious good, whose delicate complex of order and freedom, culture and peace, can at any moment be overthrown by barbarians invading from without or multiplying within." Maulana Syed Ahmed Bukhari, Shahi Imam, Jama Masjid, Delhi, says, “Muslims have become the majority in Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Kerala, Hyderabad, and Assam in India. According to Islam, the presence of non-Muslims in Muslim-dominated areas is forbidden. Therefore, Hindus should vacate these areas; otherwise, we will do the same to them as we did to Hindus in Kashmir.” Abdulla Zuber “ Jihad will continue until all the Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, Atheists are killed. Your secularism and tolerance cannot change our ideology. Quran does NOT permit survival of Non-Muslims.” It is time for Hindus to wake up and support the efforts of Prime Minister Modi to eliminate terrorists in Pakistan and all around the world, wherever they may be. The Prime Minister should also concentrate on the internal enemies of Bharat and eliminate the terrorists who are planning to destabilize Bharat. Let us look at what the experts in Islam said about their philosophy, their cruelty, terrorism, and plans to dominate India and the world.  Before India’s Independence, Mohammad Jinnah said, “Hindu and Muslim cultures constitute two distinct, and frequently antagonistic, ways of life, and therefore they cannot coexist in one nation.” On 6 December 1945, in a statement to the British Government, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, leader of the Muslim League, called for the creation of an independent Muslim state, Pakistan. He explained that Muslims would never be able to live in peace if they were in the minority alongside a Hindu majority and emphasized that the two societies could not coexist within a single nation. Islamic rule in India as a "colonial experiment" was "extremely violent", and "the Muslims could not rule the country except by systematic terror. Cruelty was the norm - burnings, summary executions, crucifixions or impalements, inventive tortures. Hindu temples were destroyed to make way for mosques. On occasion, there were forced conversions …. If ever there were an uprising, it was instantly and savagely repressed: houses were burned, the countryside was laid waste, men were slaughtered, and women were taken as slaves." (Fernand Braudel: A History of Civilization) “The Democratic system that is predominant in the world is not a suitable system for the peoples of our region.... The system of free elections is not suitable for our country. King Fahd of Saudi Arabia At least King Fahd has had the honesty to admit the incompatibility of Islam and democracy. Meanwhile, Western Islamic apologists and modernizing Muslims continue to look for democratic principles in Islam and Islamic history. Asghar Ali Engineer asked, “Is Islam compatible with secularism?”  He said that  “Both non-Muslims and orthodox Muslims feel that Islam is not compatible with secularism. Fundamentalist Muslims totally reject secularism as anti-Islamic and haram. Maulana Maududi, founder of Jamat-e-Islami-e-Hind, had said, while leaving for Pakistan in 1948, that those who participated in secular politics were raising the flag of revolt against Allah and His Messenger. The Saudi 'Ulama, too, denounce secularism as strictly prohibited in Islamic tradition.” That means Islam is incompatible with democracy.  Even if one goes by religious text, the Qur’an emphasizes what it calls shura’ (consultation) (3:159, 42:38). Even the messenger of Allah is required to consult his people in worldly matters, and Muslims are required to consult each other in their secular affairs. We Hindus must recognize that Islam and Hinduism are incompatible in their ideologies, values, practices, human rights, inclusiveness, women’s rights, tolerance toward each other, marriage customs, and democratic principles.   Hindus must realize the gravity of the precarious situation the majority of Hindus are facing at the hands of Muslim minorities who are using every means to create fear among Hindus and drive them from their villages.  It should be pointed out that in the very near future, the Hindus are going to be cornered, and another carnage of Hindus similar to the carnage during the Independence time will occur, not too far in the future. It is a matter of years, not decades. Muslims stayed back only to recapture India through violent means. Their loyalty is not to India but to global dominance and supremacy over all religions. They are in India not to integrate, not to accommodate, not to adjust, and not to assimilate into the mainstream of India but to dominate, subjugate, subdue, control, and suppress Hindus through Islamic justice, which allows them to dispose of all Hindus at their will, reminiscent of Islamic brutal, barbaric, and ruthless dominance of Hindu India for eight centuries. After visiting India, Tarek Fatah rightly observed, “As a Muslim, I found it fascinating that this is the only place in the world where Muslims exert influence without fear. Muslims are better equipped in India than in Pakistan and Bangladesh.” By avoiding an open discussion about the impending takeover of India by Muslims in less than a decade, Hindu politicians, Hindu organizations, and the government are going to fulfill the long-cherished dreams of Muslims to convert the country into an Islamic State. How long will Bharat allow Muslims to dominate, dictate, and decimate Bharat? It is time to reflect on the mission of Islam and protect Bharata from cruelty, torture, rapes, killings, attacks on Temples, cow slaughter, love jihad, and terrorism. Reflect on all major attacks Muslims have inflicted on Bharat over the last eight centuries and protect Sanatana Dharma and Bharat. It is time to take any and every option into consideration before we are subjected to the cruelty our forefathers experienced.

On September 30th, a Muslim copilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the Flydubai plane and kill all 174 passengers and 6 crew. Although Smit Machchhar (from Mumbai, India) was stabbed by a Muslim copilot and was lying on the floor with multiple wounds, his chanting of Hanuman Chalisa gave him the strength to open the cockpit door, enabling passengers to overpower the copilot, stabilize the plane, and save all the passengers. Flydubai plane landed safely, and Smit is in the hospital recovering from the wounds. PM Modi called and told Machchhar that the entire country was praying for him and praised his bravery during the crisis. Machchhar also shared that whenever he finds himself in difficulty, he recites the Hanuman Chalisa. He said he recited the Hanuman Chalisa during that difficult moment as well. “And I am just, in positivity, whenever I get a chance, I say only one thing: I say only Hanuman Chalisa. Even then, I used to say only Hanuman Chalisa. Now I know that he is not just God; he is my savior,” he said. In fact, his two-year-old child also recites Hanuman Chalisa. PM Modi also spoke about Machchhar's mother, Geeta Ben, and said she had raised him with the values and teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Hanuman Temple in Frisco. The Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple in Frisco changed the city's geography as thousands of Hindus moved there to experience Lord Hanuman's power, grace, blessings, and vibrations. Over the past ten years, the Hanuman Temple in Frisco has significantly contributed to the city's rapid growth, particularly within the Hindu community. This temple has become a central hub for worship and cultural activities, attracting many Indian immigrants to the area. Its contribution in terms of financial, spiritual, religious, philosophical, and peaceful coexistence is immeasurable. Power Of Hanuman Chalisa The chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa by Flydubai Airlines pilot Smit is believed to have saved the passenger's lives. The Hanuman Chalisa—a 40-verse devotional hymn composed by Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century—holds a profound place in Hindu tradition. Rooted in scriptural lore, it is revered not merely as poetic praise but as a potent Stotra (a hymn invoking protection, courage, and divine grace) that taps into Lord Hanuman's extraordinary spiritual power (siddhi). It gives us inner strength and surrounds us with an invisible shield of divine protection during the most challenging times. Our faith keeps us grounded, fills us with courage, and inspires us to remain positive, fearless, and steadfast in the face of every challenge. Pilot Smit chanting the Hanuman Chalisa gave him strength, surrounded him with divine energy, and equipped him with courage when he needed it most. Tulsidas, who composed the Hanuman Chalisa, says in the Chalisa that whoever chants it with full devotion to Hanuman will have Hanuman's grace. Among Hindus in Northern India, it is widely believed that chanting the Hanuman Chalisa invokes Hanuman's divine intervention in grave problems, including those involving evil spirits, and this belief is based on the Chalisa's own claims. Key Spiritual Powers of the Hanuman Chalisa 1. Dispersion of Fear and Negative Energies Hindu texts describe Hanuman as the ultimate protector against fear, mental turmoil, and unseen negative forces. Verse 24 explicitly states: "Bhoot Pishach Nikat Nahi Aave, Mahavir Jab Naam Sunave" (Ghosts, evil spirits, and negative energies cannot come near when the name of Mahavir Hanuman is invoked.) Reciting the Chalisa acts as spiritual armor (Kavach), helping ground the mind in high-stress or life-threatening crises. 2. Bestower of Eight Siddhis and Nine Nidhis According to the Ramcharitmanas and the Chalisa itself (Verse 31), Mata Sita granted Hanuman the rare boons of the Ashta Siddhi (eight supernatural powers) and Nava Niddhi (nine divine treasures): You are the giver of the eight mystic powers and nine wealths, as blessed by Mother Janaki. Because Hanuman possesses these supreme abilities—such as shrinking to an atom (Anima) or growing immensely (Mahima)—reciting his praise is believed to grant mental clarity, physical resilience, and extraordinary fortitude in adversity. 3. Eradication of Suffering and Obstacles (Sankat Mochan) In Hindu belief, Lord Hanuman is hailed as Sankat Mochan (the liberator from distress). Verse 36 highlights this healing power: All diseases are cured and all pains vanish when one continuously chants the name of the brave Hanuman. Scriptures state that whether facing physical pain, severe mental anxiety, or insurmountable worldly hurdles, chanting the Chalisa invokes Hanuman’s swift intervention to remove obstacles. 4. The Efficacy of Devotional Vibration (Mantra Shakti) In Sanatana Dharma, sound (Shabda) carries tangible energy. The Chalisa is structured in precise Chhandas (poetic meters—specifically Doha and Chaupai). When chanted with devotion (Bhakti) and focus, its rhythmic resonance calms the nervous system, instills immense willpower, and anchors consciousness even amid chaos. 5. Absolute Faith and Divine Protection (Sankalpa) The concluding verse guarantees the spiritual potency of the text: 6. Lord Shiva Himself stands as witness to this truth. Whoever recites this Hanuman Chalisa attains spiritual perfection and victory; The Ultimate Wish Fulfillment is found in Verse 39, which says, "Jo yeh padhe Hanuman Chalisa, hoye siddhi sakhi Gaurisa". Lord Shiva (Gaurisa) himself stands as a witness that whoever reads this prayer will attain success (siddhi) and fulfillment of their innermost wishes. Ultimately, the scripture emphasizes that the Chalisa's true power lies in pure, surrender-filled faith (Saranagati). By shifting one's focus from panic to Hanuman's divine attributes—unwavering devotion, infinite strength, and selfless service—the practitioner accesses inner reserves of courage to overcome seemingly impossible situations. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979h ‎

Judith Tyberg (1902–1980), also known by her spiritual name Jyotipriya, was an American orientalist, educator, Sanskrit scholar, and yogi. She played a pivotal role in bridging Eastern philosophy and Western understanding during the 20th century. Born at the Point Loma Theosophical Community in California, Tyberg studied classical languages, religion, and philosophy from an early age. She began formal Sanskrit studies in 1930 and eventually earned her Ph.D. in Sanskritic Studies from the Theosophical University. She wrote several books, including “Sanskrit Keys to the Wisdom Religion”; “Hymn to the Origin of the World from the Rig Veda”; “First Lessons in Sanskrit Grammar and Reading”; “The Language of the Gods: Sanskrit Keys to India's Wisdom”; and others Dr. Radhakrishna, Vice Chancellor of Benares Hindu University, awarded her a three-year scholarship to study in India. At BHU, she studied traditional Sanskrit and Indian philosophy, interacting with academic authorities, professors, and traditional Sanskrit scholars. She talked about the greatness of Sanskrit: "Sanskrit is one of the noblest languages that human genius has brought forth. Because of its grandeur, it is one of the most difficult to understand. Sanskrit is the pride of the people of India, and knowledge of it gives the key to their hearts. It is the learned language of India, the language of its cultured inhabitants" Tyberg’s view of Sanskrit’s importance was quoted by the Los Angeles Times: “Not only are the languages used on the European and American continents deficient in words dealing with spirit, but many of the English words that do have spiritual connotations are so weighty with false and dogmatic beliefs that it is difficult to convey an exact meaning to all ... while Sanskrit expresses the inner mysteries of the soul and spirit, the many after-death states, the origin and destiny of worlds and men and human psychology.” In her view, the very pronunciation and etymology of Sanskrit act as spiritual keys that unlock deep truths about the universe, human consciousness, and the inner workings of the soul. She taught that ancient seers consciously designed its structure and vocabulary to reflect divine realities and elevate human awareness toward higher states of spiritual realization. She spent two months in the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Autumn 1947. On November 24, one of the four days each year when Sri Aurobindo broke his seclusion, Tyberg paid her reverence to Sri Aurobindo and his spiritual collaborator, Mirra Alfassa, a Frenchwoman known as “The Mother”. Tyberg’s diary recorded her experience: “I just felt God”, “electric forces”, “stretched out to infinity”, and “I really knew what my soul was”. In a private audience with The Mother, Judith Tyberg asked to receive a spiritual name, which Sri Aurobindo chose: “Jyotipriya, the lover of Light”. After spending three years in India, she founded the East-West Cultural Center in Los Angeles (later known as the Sri Aurobindo Center of Los Angeles). The center served as a hub for hosting Indian scholars, yogis, and spiritual teachers, making traditional Indian philosophy accessible to Western students. A passage from the book “Sanskrit Keys to the World Religion”, by Judith Tyberg Sanskrit is one of the noblest languages that human genius has brought forth. Because of its grandeur it is one of the most difficult to understand. Sanskrit is the pride of the people of India, and knowledge of it gives the key to their hearts. It is the learned language of India, the language of its cultured inhabitants, the language of its religion, philosophy, literature, and science, a language very much alive in the heart-life of its people. The Hindus are a nation of philosophers and mystics. Max Muller called them "the most highly gifted race of mankind." Almost every phase of philosophical thought in the West is represented in one form or another in Hindu philosophical works.” The India of old is constantly rising in estimation since the discovery of its grand achievements in language, literature, art and philosophy. It will be realized more and more that a knowledge of the culture of old India is essential to the foundation of a proper understanding of the origin and growth of Western civilization. Sanskrit is a language which, though possessing voluminous and valuable works in prose and verse, has but recently become known to Europe. Just as a botanist may estimate the age of a tree from the number of its branches and the circumference of its trunk, so in like manner, a linguist can estimate the age of a language from the number of its branch-dialects and the area of the country over which it is spoken. As there is no language so perfect in its forms and with so many branches and sub-branches as the Sanskrit, it must be regarded as the oldest of all the existing literary languages. Besides being the oldest of our literary languages it is also the most replete with knowledge concerning the wonderful and recondite potentialities of the human spirit. Jyotipriya left her body at 3:15 p.m. on the third of October 1980.  In her last testament she had written: “In the event of my death, I would like my body to be cremated and the ashes there from thrown among the flowers of a happy garden.  May any service that may be held be one of meditation, music and prayer for the speedy return of my soul to the Divine for new joy, power and wisdom, so I may return again to serve the Light.”  After a life where she sought “long service ... in search of truth, beauty and joy to share with all”, her final aspiration was “the speedy return of my soul to the Divine ... so I may return again to serve the Light”. She also met Mahatma Gandhi, Maulana Azad, V. K. Gokak, B. L. Atreya, Anandamayi Ma, Ramana Maharshi, Sri Ramdas, and Krishna Prem and others. Tyberg spent a week with the sage Ramana Maharshi at his Arunachala ashram where he told her “You’re already realized, you just don’t know it.” Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Gau Puja (cow worship) is a deeply significant practice in Sanatana Dharma. It is part of the Intinta Shiva Abhishekam, where Global Hindu Heritage Foundation organizes the Gau Puja before starting Shiva Abhishekam on each Monday. It goes beyond ritualistic respect, serving as a manifestation of universal motherly care, divine presence, and spiritual and physical well-being. We worship Gau Mata as an embodiment of selfless giving, nourishment, and the possessor of all deities.  Pitrupaksha is observed in 2026 from September 26 through October 10. These 15 days, also known as Mahalaya Paksha, are considered the most auspicious time to perform rituals, prayers, and acts of charity in memory of departed souls. Among all offerings, feeding cows during Pitru Paksha is considered one of the most powerful and sacred acts. One may offer grass, grains, bananas, fruits, or support a gaushala in serving these gentle beings. In doing so, you honor your lineage, connect with your roots, and invite peace, prosperity, and harmony into your home What are several key reasons for the importance of performing Gau Puja: 1. Spiritual & Scriptural Significance •    Abode of Deities: The cow is revered as Gau Mata and is believed to harbor nearly 36 crore deities within her body. For instance, Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu reside at the base of her horns, while Lord Shiva and Goddess Uma reside in her forehead. Worshipping the cow is thus equivalent to offering prayers to all divine forces simultaneously.  •    Goddess Kamadhenu: Gau Puja honors the spirit of Kamadhenu—the celestial cow of plenty that emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan). She symbolizes infinite abundance and the power to fulfill all noble wishes.  •    Connection to Sacred Scriptures: The Rig Veda extols the cow as the mother of cosmic forces and warns against harming her. Furthermore, Lord Krishna is remembered as Govinda and Gopala—the divine protector and friend of cows.  2. Spiritual Benefits of Performing Gau Puja •    Removal of Negativity & Karmic Sins: Worshipping Gau Mata helps dissolve karmic burdens, cleanses negative energies, and helps overcome severe sins (Papa).  •    Overcoming Obstacles: The ritual aids in overcoming debts, protecting against adversaries, and creating peace and tranquility in the home and society.  •    Attaining Prosperity & Well-being: Like the legendary account of King Dilipa—who worshipped Kamadhenu on the advice of Sage Vasishta to be blessed with lineage—Gau Puja is performed to gain health, wealth, family happiness, and spiritual growth.  3. Societal & Ethical Role •    Universal Compassion: Performing Gau Puja fosters a spirit of selfless service, non-violence (Ahimsa), and gratitude toward nature and animals that sustain life.  •    Preservation of Indigenous (Desi) Breed: GHHF promotes establishing Gaushalas to protect native cow breeds, preventing illegal slaughter and encouraging sustainable, organic agricultural practices through natural fertilizers. What are the benefits of doing Gau Puja? Gau Puja (cow worship) and Gau Seva (service to cows) are considered sacred practices in Sanatana Dharma, rooted in spiritual, ecological, and moral values.  1. Spiritual & Karmic Benefits •    Invocations of Deities: Hindu scriptures describe Gau Mata as harboring divine forces and 36 crore deities within her body. Worshipping a cow is considered equivalent to offering prayers to all divine manifestations simultaneously.  •    Purification of Karmic Burdens: Performing Gau Puja is traditionally believed to cleanse negative energy, remove karmic sins (Papa), and establish peace within oneself and the home.  •    Symbol of Divine Abundance: The cow represents Kamadhenu—the celestial wish-fulfilling cow—symbolizing infinite prosperity, longevity, and well-being.  2. Benefits of Panchagavya and Cow Products The GHHF emphasizes that worshipping and protecting the cow allows humanity to receive the divine Paso-prasadam and the benefits of Panchagavya (the five sacred products: milk, curd, ghee, urine, and dung):  •    Medicinal & Ayurvedic Value: In Ayurveda, cow dung and urine are recognized for their antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties.  •    Environmental & Ritual Purity: Sacred fires (Yajnas and Homas) fueled with cow dung and desi ghee help purify the air, reduce pollutants, and elevate the environmental energy field.  3. Physical & Environmental Well-being •    Promoting Health (Panchagavya): Products provided by native cows (milk, curd, ghee, urine, dung) form the basis of Panchagavya used in Ayurvedic health practices (Cowpathy) and sacred rituals.  •    Purification of the Energy Field: Performing Yajnas and Aartis using cow ghee and natural dung cakes is believed to purify the surrounding atmosphere, reducing environmental pollutants and increasing positive energy. 4. Ethical & Societal Value •    Practice of Ahimsa (Non-violence): Caring for and worshipping cows cultivates empathy, humility, and universal compassion toward all living beings.  •    Preservation of Indigenous Breeds: Encouraging Gau Puja directly supports local Gaushalas (cow shelters), preserving native cattle breeds and encouraging sustainable, organic agricultural practices.  Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

“Tell the truth boldly, whether it hurts or not. Never pander to weakness. If truth is too much for intelligent people and sweeps them away, let them go; the sooner the better.” Swami Vivekananda Muslim terrorists have carried out several major attacks globally over the past decades, resulting in thousands of casualties.  September 11 Attacks (2001); Bali Bombings (2002); Madrid Train Bombings (2004); London Bombings (2005); Mumbai Attacks (2008); Boston Marathon Bombing (2013); Paris Attacks (2015); October 7 Attack (2023); Crocus City Hall Attack (2024; and many more were carried out by Islamist terrorists.  On September 30th, a Muslim copilot allegedly stabbed the captain and attempted to crash the Flydubai plane and kill all 174 passengers and 6 crew. According to Israeli officials, the first officer, an Omani national, stabbed captain Smit Machchhar (from Mumbai, India) and tried to sabotage the aircraft’s systems. Witnesses said the plane entered a tailspin and began to dive. Passengers and crew entered the cockpit, restrained the attacker, and enabled a second pair of Flydubai pilots on board to land the plane in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. Not all religions divide people into believers and nonbelievers. Not all religions divide people into believers and sinners. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism do not divide people into believers and nonbelievers. They do not brand them as infidels, sinners, Kafirs and nonbelievers. These religions do not put them through torture, terror, violence, and conversion. Islam openly talks about conversions, violence, terror, and hell. Islam is replete with atrocities against infidels. India suffered untold misery, torture, violence, and deaths for more than eight centuries in the hands of Muslim rulers. Let us look at what the Quran says against non-Muslims and see how they are treated. 1) DISBELIEVERS Allah will throw fear into the hearts of the disbelievers and smite their necks and fingers. The Quran, Sura 8:12 The fires of hell will be fueled with the bodies of idolaters and unbelievers. They will experience an ever-greater torment. The Quran, Sura 72:15-17 Smite the necks of the disbelievers whenever you fight against them. Those who die fighting for Allah will be rewarded. The Quran, Sura 47:4 Those who reject our Signs (verses), We shall soon cast into the Fire: as often as their skins are roasted through, we shall change them for fresh skins, so that they may taste the penalty: for Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise. The Quran, Sura 4:56 Surah 3:151: "We shall cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve (all non-Muslims) …" Surah 2:191: "And kill them (non-Muslims) wherever you find them … kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers (non-Muslims)." Surah 9:5: "Then kill the disbelievers (non-Muslims) wherever you find them, capture them and besiege them, and lie in wait for them in each and every ambush …" Prophet! Strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites and be stern with them. Hell will be their home, a hapless journey’s end. (Quran 66.9)  CHRISTIANS AND JEWS Allah has stirred up enmity and hatred among Christians. The Quran, Sura 5:14 Christians are disbelievers for believing in the divinity of Christ.  The Quran, Sura 5:17 Disbelievers will have a painful doom. The Quran, Sura 5:36 Jews and Christians are evil-livers. The Quran, Sura 5:59 Christians will be burned in the Fire. The Quran, Sura 5:72 Christians and Jews are perverse. Allah himself fights against them. The Quran, Sura 9:30 BELIEVERS IN IDOLS The fires of hell will be fueled with the bodies of idolaters and unbelievers. They will experience an ever-greater torment. The Quran, Sura 72:15-17 "So when the sacred months have passed away, then slay the idolaters wherever you find them, and take them captives and besiege them and lie in wait for them in every ambush, then if they repent and keep up prayer and pay the poor-rate, leave their way free to them."  Quran, Sura 9:5. “ye who believe! The idolaters only are unclean... (9.28)  And [Abraham] said, "You have only taken, other than Allah, idols as [a bond of] affection among you in worldly life. Then on the Day of Resurrection you will deny one another and curse one another, and your refuge will be the Fire, and you will not have any helpers." (29:25) JIZYA "Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued." Quran (9:29) "If they refuse to accept Islam, demand from them the Jizya. If they agree to pay, accept it from them and hold off your hands. If they refuse to pay the tax, seek Allah's help and fight them." Hadith: Muslim (19:4294) "He who withholds the Jizya is an enemy of Allah and His apostle."  Hadith: Ishaq 956 & 962 SHARIA LAW The following are some of the axioms you find in the Quran, Hadith, and other Islamic scriptures: 1) In Sharia law, a Muslim can testify in court against a Kafir, but a Kafir may not testify against a Muslim. In Sharia law, it is illegal for a Muslim to kill a fellow Muslim, but it is not illegal for a Muslim to kill a Kafir. (A Kafir is an unbeliever, an infidel). 2) In Sharia law, women and non-Muslims are denied equal status. Quran and Hadith claim that women are inferior to men, and the testimony of a woman is worth only half of a man's in a Sharia court. Similarly, non-Muslim testimony is worth only half of a Muslim. 3) Sharia Law does not allow any Muslim to leave his faith. The punishment for a Muslim to leave his faith is death. 4) Non-Muslims are not given the right to build their places of worship according to Sharia Law. That means Hindus cannot build Temples if they come to power and enforce Sharia Law.  The Hindu population has dwindled in Pakistan to almost nothing, from about 20 percent at the time of Independence to almost none, and the Hindu population in Bangladesh dwindled from about 26 percent to less than 6 percent. These governments deliberately demolished Hindu Temples and terrorized the Hindu population. 5) Any discussion and criticism of Islam is punishable by death if Sharia law is enforced. TIME TO PONDER AND TIME FOR OPEN DISCUSSION Based on the verses in the Quran listed above, would the National Commission on Minorities (NCM) consider these verses as inciting violence (IPC section 158 A-B) or promoting peace, as malicious insult of religion (IPC section 295-A) or promoting respect for other religions, and as statements constituting public mischief (IPC section 505) or promoting public harmony?  Would the NCM go to court challenging these verses because they are offensive, insulting, violent, mischievous, and outright offensive to humanity itself? Indian government and other States should look at their Departments of Minority Affairs that provide unbelievable incentives to Muslims, neglecting the majority Hindus. India should learn from a torturous, turbulent history where Hindus were killed, women raped, Hindu temples attacked, and Hindu idols defaced. Not only have Hindus failed to learn from history, but they are also pampering the minorities who are determined to wipe out Sanatana Dharma and make India an Islamic country.  Will the above-listed verses in the Quran confirm to “the upholding of the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India” as demanded by NCM? Every human being, irrespective of his/her religion, should protect India from being converted into an Islamic Country.  Bharat is more important than politics, security of the country is more important than appeasement, peaceful coexistence is more important than exclusivity of the chosen faith, pluralistic values are more important than preferential treatment, freedom of expression is more important than vote bank politics, societal harmony is more important than terrorism, and equal opportunities are more important than preferential minority rights to resources. It is time to have an open discussion about any religion that demeans, derides, ridicules, inflames, and criticizes other religions. It is time to discuss openly and honestly any religion that openly advocates terror, discriminates against other religions, calls them or brands them as non-Muslims to be expendable, imprints the followers of other religions as pagans and Kafirs, imposes Jizya taxes on the followers of other religions, calls for killing the idolaters, supports the idea of putting non-Muslims to ever-greater torment, etc. Will the Muslims and their sympathizers discuss the above-listed verses one by one without brushing them aside? Would they denounce all the hateful verses of the Koran that call for the death of everyone who practices another religion? Let sanity set in and insanity be set right.

https://bharatobserver.in/ghhf-opens-doors-to-economic-independence-for-women-in-rajahmundry/ For many women, the opportunity to learn a practical skill can be the beginning of a much larger change. Recognizing this, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) has expanded its women’s empowerment initiative with the opening of a new free sewing and tailoring training centre in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. The initiative is designed to provide women from underprivileged communities with professional tailoring skills that can eventually help them earn an independent income. The programme is part of GHHF’s broader grassroots work, which combines social development with its efforts to strengthen families and communities. From Addateegala to Rajahmundry The sewing initiative first began in the remote agency area of Addateegala in Alluri Sitharama Raju district. After completing training, the first group of women graduated with practical experience and greater confidence to pursue tailoring as a livelihood. The sewing machines used for that training were subsequently moved to Rajahmundry, allowing the programme to reach another group of women. The new centre was inaugurated at Sri Ramalayam, 36th Block, VAMBAY Colony, Mahadeva Area, 16th Ward, Rajahmundry, as part of GHHF’s 20th anniversary initiatives. The centre operates under the guidance of GHHF Founder President Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi and National General Secretary Sri Rajesh Thunuguntla, with local volunteers helping organize and operate the programme. Community Support Strengthens the Initiative The inauguration also brought support from local religious and community leaders. Sri Sri Sri Skandha Swamy of Konthamuru Shanmukha Peetham blessed the new centre and pledged to donate five sewing machines to women who successfully complete their training with excellence. Similarly, Sri Singavarapu Satyanarayana, Director of the Godavari Ghat Sri Visweswara Swamy Temple, committed to providing another sewing machine as a reward for a graduating trainee. The programme was organized with the efforts of East Godavari district volunteers Sri Rayudu Raghavarao and Sri Singavarapu Ramakrishna. Skills That Can Strengthen a Household The Rajahmundry centre is not an isolated effort. Another GHHF tailoring centre has been operating in Nandyal district, providing women with practical, income-generating skills. Running such centres, however, requires continuous support. Rent, electricity, trainer honorariums, fabrics, needles, thread and other training materials all contribute to the monthly operational costs. GHHF aims to keep the training free for women who may otherwise have limited access to vocational education. The foundation also hopes to establish similar centres in more underserved districts, expanding the opportunity to hundreds of women. Building Independence Through Skills The value of vocational training often extends well beyond the individual receiving it. A woman who learns tailoring can potentially take up employment, work from home, provide stitching services within her community or eventually establish a small enterprise. In that sense, the sewing machines at these centres represent more than equipment. They are tools through which women can acquire a skill, develop confidence and explore greater financial independence. With the Rajahmundry centre now joining its ongoing initiatives in other districts, GHHF’s tailoring programme continues to focus on a simple principle: when women receive the skills and opportunity to become economically self-reliant, the benefits can reach their entire families and communities. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979

Hindus observe Pitru Paksha (a sacred 16-day lunar period during the waning phase of the moon) primarily to honor, remember, and thank their ancestors. Pitru Paksha means “fortnight of the ancestors,” during which the living connect with their ancestors by performing Shradha, which includes cooked food, water, sesame seeds, and rice balls. In 2026, Pitru Paksha begins on September 26 and culminates on October 10. Why do Hindus observe Pitru Paksha? 1)    Repaying Ancestral Debt (Pitru Runa): Hindu philosophy teaches that every individual is born with certain debts. Pitru Runa is the debt owed to one's parents, grandparents, and earlier generations who nurtured, protected, and preserved the lineage, culture, and values that make modern existence possible. 2)    Performing Shraddha and Tarpana: During this fortnight, families perform specific rituals such as Shraddha (offerings made with utmost reverence), Pind Daan (offering rice and sesame balls), and Tarpana (offering water mixed with sesame seeds). These rites are performed on the specific lunar day (tithi) corresponding to an ancestor's passing to help liberate their souls and grant them peace in the afterlife (Pitru Loka). 3)    Seeking Blessings: It is believed that satisfied ancestors bestow health, harmony, wisdom, and prosperity upon their living descendants, while also helping clear lingering karmic obstacles (Pitru Dosha) in the family tree. 4)    Cultivating Gratitude and Continuity: Beyond strict rituals, Pitru Paksha serves as a designated time to reflect on family roots, remember the sacrifices of past generations, and pass down cultural memory to younger family members. Acts of charity—such as feeding the needy, priests, cows, and crows—are also performed in the name of the departed as a gesture of universal compassion. Hindu scriptures such as the Garuda Purana, Brahma Purana, Agni Purana, and epics like the Mahabharata detail the profound metaphysical, karmic, and moral importance of Pitru Paksha. Across these scriptures, the observance is framed not merely as a cultural custom, but as a core pillar of Sanatana Dharma (eternal duty). In the Bhagavad Geeta (Chapter 9, Verse 25), Lord Krishna explains: “Those who worship ancestors go to ancestors, those who worship deities go to deities, but those who worship God attain God.” This shows that while worshiping ancestors is a noble duty, the highest goal of life is devotion to the Supreme. Still, by performing Shraddh rituals, we fulfill our responsibility towards the souls who gave us life and blessings. Further, the Bhagavad Gita says, "The soul is neither born, nor does it ever die; nor having once existed, does it ever cease to be. The soul is without birth, eternal, immortal, and ageless. It is not destroyed when the body is destroyed." (2:20). The body may perish, but the soul journeys onward. Thus, scriptures explicitly stress that Pitru Paksha is incomplete without Daan (charity). Texts state that feeding the hungry, distributing food to Brahmins, and offering morsels to animals and birds (particularly crows and cows, viewed as messengers or bridges to the ancestral realm) fulfills the law of cosmic reciprocity. Doing good deeds and feeding others in the name of the departed generates merit (punya) that directly benefits both the living lineage and the ancestors' souls. According to the Mahabharata, after Karna was killed, they took him to heaven, where they offered him jewels and gold as food when he was hungry. Indra told him that he had never offered food to the ancestors, only jewels and flowers. Realizing his grave mistake, Karna asks Indra for 15 days to make it right. During this time, he returned to Earth, performed shraddha for his ancestors, and offered food in their memory. Because Karna stayed on Earth during these days, Hindus celebrate this period as Pitru Paksha, and it has become a tradition to offer Pinda Shraddha to departed souls. What are the benefits of doing Pitru Paksha? Observing Pitru Paksha brings several spiritual, psychological, and familial benefits according to Hindu tradition and cultural ethos: •    Properly performing ancestral rites is believed to appease unsatisfied ancestral souls, thereby mitigating or resolving Pitru Dosha—an astrological affliction thought to cause ongoing hurdles, health struggles, or marital and career delays in a family. •    By expressing gratitude to our ancestors, they reciprocate with blessings for health, wealth, longevity, peace, and overall family well-being. •    Performing rituals like Shraddha and Pind Daan, they are believed to nourish the souls of the deceased, helping them attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth)  •    Fulfilling duties toward one's ancestors, they free an individual from karmic debt (Pitru Rina), bringing a sense of inner peace and spiritual alignment. •    Performance of these rituals reveals our deep sense of identity, respect for elders, and continuity of family values. Your donations are appreciated; By Zelle: ghhfusaorg@gmail.com PayPal: savetemples.org By Check: GHHF, 14726 Harmony Lane, Frisco, TX 75035. By Rupees: call 601-918-7111; +91 83096 43979