Growing up in a diverse continent like North America, children experience an array of cultures, languages, values, and beliefs. Amidst this, BAPS strives to preserve Hindu culture and Indian traditions abroad. BAPS endeavors to sustain the true essence of Hindu festivals by educating individuals, especially youth, on their religious significance. The festival of lights, Diwali, is an auspicious time of celebration for Hindus, rejoicing the historical return of Bhagwan Shri Ram from his exile from Ayodhya. Diwali is a time for families to come together and celebrate the values of camaraderie, respect and loyalty, and to renew efforts to remove ignorance through knowledge.
For many years, BAPS has organized Kids’ Diwali Celebrations at centers across North America. This year’s theme, With Bhagwan by Our Side, teaches and reminds children of Bhagwan’s presence in their lives. Children enjoyed various skits recounting the historical events that connect to the five-day Diwali celebration. They partook in activities that tested their knowledge of the festival through engaging visual presentations. The attendees experienced closeness to Bhagwan as they learned about the significance of Diwali and the values that it reinstates. Under the religious leadership and guidance of Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS continues to promote activities that strengthen the spiritual knowledge of children.