Open House at Brea Bala Vihar

 Hari Om! My name is Saikrishnan Sitaraman, and I am a part of our very own Yuvakendra class in Brea Bala Vihar. As I walked in to what would be the first day of our wonderful Bala Vihar session this year, I was greeted with so much kindness, respect, love, and compassion that is so rare to find all in one place. There were so many familiar faces and new ones, too, and all carried a bright, happy presence. The Brea chapter had an Open House for the first time to attract new parents, as the location has changed to a new temple. There were many new members who were interested in joining the program. 

Bala Vihar started off with a Ganesha puja performed by Krishnaraj uncle, and that was followed by a panel discussion on the importance of Bala Vihar and how it shapes young minds. The panel was guided by Bala Vihar teachers, parents, alumni parents and students, moderated by Krishnaraj ji. I was one of the panelists who were picked on the spot. I was a little nervous, but as I thought about it, I remembered how Bala Vihar was always a safe space to talk, learn and share, and that whatever I said in the panel would be reflected on and valued. That I could make an impact or share an important message with all those present. That is the kind of opportunity Bala Vihar gives more than anywhere else — the opportunity to be a better version of yourself. 

As the morning went on and I was asked meaningful questions, I got the chance to not only express my opinions about the various values we develop in Bala Vihar, but also hear the insight and powerful words of the knowledgeable community surrounding me. I was fortunate enough to receive guidance from various mentors on that day. After the panel discussion, as always, we had our aarti, which brings us together to really express the unity and power of our amazing community that wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of each and every person.

We then enjoyed some delicious prasad together and spent some time catching up with each other! It was truly such an enthralling experience to be a part of, as it gave me the chance to think back on everything I’ve learned, what it has meant to me, and hopefully to inspire others, too. 

In life, one of the biggest questions people hold on to is why. Why do we do the things we do, and what comes out of it? When we take a step back and think about it, we also want to seek success in our lives outside of a career. It’s about learning how to move through life with purpose, to live life with meaning, and how to stay grounded. With Bala Vihar, we learn those life lessons and skills to really help us live a happy and fulfilled life. I would say that this experience was truly one of a kind, and it brings me immense joy to be a part of such a tight-knit community — one where friends truly become family.

--Saikrishnan Sitaraman