Honour for Dr. Bapat
The Hindu priest and retired academic was facilitated at a special event, writes PREETI JABBAL 
Members of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Melbourne (HSS) held a special event recently to felicitate Dr Jayant Bapat, recipient of the Order of Australia medal at the Queen’s birthday honours 2011. The event was held on the auspicious occasion of Guru Pournima at the Clayton North Primary School in Clayton. Hindu priest and retired academic Dr Bapat, was honoured by the HSS for his ongoing support and contribution to the Indian community. In a simple ceremony held by the Sangh Parivar he was presented with flowers and a traditional shawl.
Prior to Dr Bapat’s felicitation, the HSS had organised a lecture by visiting Indian priest Swami Jaydevanandji, who kept the audience engaged with his take on life, spirituality and success. Citing the example of an eagle, Swamiji described several characteristics of the bird that could be emulated by humans to soar the heights of success. He referred to the eagle’s preference for flying to great heights, capturing live prey rather than decayed pickings, unnerving focus, sharp vision, meticulous selection of partner and tough, albeit careful breeding of young ones as traits that could help in achieving personal goals.
Swamiji’s discourse was followed by a formal prayer session conducted in the tradition of the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) with order and discipline. The importance of guru was marked by performing puja of the Bhagwa Dhwaja (saffron flag) which is a symbol of sacrifice. The HSS philosophy is partly inspired by the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha), a right wing Hindu community organisation from India. The HSS in Melbourne was established on February 7, 1996 with a main objective to promote an understanding of the teachings, philosophy, language and culture of Hinduism. HSS also aims to foster inter-religious harmony, mutual understanding and respect for religious views of others, and promote universal brotherhood.
According to Mr. Abhijit Bhide from HSS: “One of the principle objectives of HSS is to integrate, sustain and enhance family values amongst the wider community. These family values are based on sacrifice, discipline, respect and unconditional love towards every member of the family. HSS intends to achieve this by empowering the younger generation with knowledge and understanding of their responsibilities and duties towards their parents, family and society.”
HSS develops these qualities through consistent meetings, camps, discussions and motivating talks by learned individuals. “The organisation believes that the age-old, time-tested ‘Bharatiya values’, which have been practiced through centuries have the potential to strengthen the mind and provide the ability to face current challenges in society,” he added.
The HSS has been organising the popular Balagokulam event every month in Melbourne since early this year. They also conduct camps for children and adults where the participants get an opportunity to learn about their culture and traditions in a fun and interesting environment. Stimulating sessions of yoga, pranayam and meditation are held for parents who accompany their children to these events. In a very short time the Balagokulam event has gained increased popularity within the Indian community.
