draft 3 chcs newsletter

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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE SHUBHASHBHAI RAMA

Dear Friends, Jai Shri Krishna, Jai Siya Ram. Compliments of the year. Blessings to you all. It has been eleven months since the new committee took office. Barring the public meeting in September 2017, this is our first communication. For this, I apologise.

The intention was there, however, we had a busy year as you will see from the sub-committee reports. As new committee members, we all had to find our feet amongst the backlog of work. The proverbial desk has not yet been cleared. Everyone is trying their best to operate within the framework of the constitution.

The primary purpose of the Cape Hindu Cultural Society (CHCS) is to foster, promote and maintain our culture. To facilitate and co-ordinate this advancement, our forefathers built the Radha Krishna Mandir and the school. It is up to us, to participate and practice our culture through the many ongoing programmes run by the CHCS. Some practices can be carried out individually or with your family, but some are best done collectively. As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. I urge you to partake in these shared activities at the centre. By doing this, not only do we meet each other and share ideas, but we support and strengthen the community. Our survival is in the collective. Social integration makes us happy people. If we are serious about maintaining and propagating our culture, we must invest our time, effort and money in the areas where it is required. The committee is a facilitator, but success begs your participation. If you want to go far, go together. Come, let us do this together. We spend money organising and facilitating programmes and events. This money needs to be replenished in the form of donations. The financial statements reflect the steady decline in donations. Even aarti monies are diminishing. A stream or river cannot flow forever without rain. Similarly, expenses by donations. For years membership fees have not been paid. I am certain that most of us owe at least ten years of fees. I appeal to you to pay your arrears as well as the current fees without waiting for an account or statement. The current 2017 and 2018 fees together will be R200, 00 i.e. R100, 00 per annum. This is a small investment in today’s terms. Thank you. Forward together! Jai Shri Krishna

CHCS NEWSLETTER 1/2018

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RADHA KRISHNA MANDIR HARISHBHAI RAMA

All the important events on the Hindu calendar were celebrated in the Mandir. These events include Holi, MahaShivratri, Ramnavmi, Hanuman Jayanti, Krishna Jayanti, Diwali, New Year etc. These programs were usually in the form of a structured formal program often involving a pooja ceremony followed by bhajans, speeches, and cultural programs.

The Patotsav, anniversary of the Mandir opening (consecration ceremony of installations of murtees in Mandir) was held on 23 April 2017. This was the 24th anniversary of Mandir opening. A special program was held in the Mandir to celebrate the occasion and lunch was served after the program. During the year, we were fortunate to host Swami Anubhavananda Saraswati on 13 August 2017, who gave a talk on spirituality in general. We will be hosting Rajenbhai Vakil for a series of talks in 2018. During the year, we acquired a small Shivlingh and for the first time held special Shiv Pooja during the 4 Mondays of Shravan month, immediately prior to the commencement of the Bhajan session. These sessions were well attended and the committee is looking at the permanent installation of the Shivlingh and regular pooja every week.

A special pooja/Havan was held on 4 November 2017 for all students writing the end of year exams. During the year – we developed a policy for all weddings in the Mandir. This policy has been approved and is now in application. In August 2017, the MC made a complete record/stock take of all items in the Mandir. During December 2017, the entire inside section of the Mandir were cleaned and repaired (where necessary). Thereafter, the entire Mandir (including the dome) was painted. The MC decided that there needs to be a mechanism (lift/ramp) to create easier access for disabled persons to enter the Mandir. The CHCS has in principle recognized the urgent need to create this access and are currently investigating the best way to achieve this type of access. We encourage all persons to attend the functions in our Mandir and we welcome any ideas/suggestions on new programs.

The current regular events held in the Mandir are as follows:

• Daily Aarti- 6.20am/08.55am/06.55pm • Daily Yoga (breathing and refining exercises) - 06.30am – 07h30am • Recitation & explanation from Shri Geetaji / Yog Sutra /Gopi Geet - every Wednesday 7.00 – 8.00 pm • Shri Sundarkand Recitation – every 1st & 3rd Tuesday at 7.00pm – 8.45pm • 12Hrs continuous Prabhu Smaran (silent meditation) - 1st Monday of every Month – 07.00am – 07.00pm • Yagna/havan every Poonam at 8.15am - 9.00am


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This function introduced the inspiring lighting of 70 Diva to celebrate the schools 70th Anniversary. On this landmark day, representatives from four deserving organisations received donations and participated in the event.

During the Diwali Deepyagna, the GMS 70th Anniversary was again reflected on through the lighting of 700 Divas. This was a wonderful sight to behold and truly a spiritual moment.

On 3 December another milestone was achieved when the 70th Meravdoh was hosted at the Samaj Hall. Since the opening of the school, a Meravdoh was held every single year since 1947. On the day we celebrated our young learners who performed beautifully to well choreographed items. We also recognised and honoured students who graduated or acquired an equivalent achievement in the past two years. The Gujarati School re-opened for the 2018 year, and we have now commenced the running of parallel Yoga Classes every Friday for children and adults. It is our plea to all members of the community to send their children to all the activities organised by the GMS as the school exists for the benefit of the community and our children.

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The GMS hosted their milestone 70th Anniversary on Sunday, 2nd July 2017. In preparation for this event the relationship between the Cape Town Gujarati community and the GMS became evident. It is historical, passionate, and loaded with great memories for everyone.

The items presented by the scholars and teachers were exceptional. Speakers gave meaningful messages, paying tribute to our forefathers who had the foresight to build what we now cherish, a Gujarati School, Mandir and heritage. The gifts presented to all the teachers were well received. The day concluded with meals being enjoyed by all.

After that, the committed Raksha Bandhan team organised the visiting of all the households in the Western Cape on Saturday 5 August to celebrate the wonderful occasion of Raksha Bandhan. Once again our generous Gujarati community welcomed us with warm hearts and we also achieved a new record collection.

During the Gandhi Jayanti celebration on 2 October, we had presentations by our young Gujarati School learners.

GANDHI MEMORIAL SCHOOL (GMS) Bharetbhai Morar

TREASURERS DESK

The financial reports for the financial year ending 28 February 2017 have been sent to the auditors for review. These statements will presented to the members at the annual general meeting.

Following the General Meeting held on 17 September 2017, approval was granted for a change in the Constitution regulating membership fees. All members will be receiving invoices shortly, reflecting the new membership fee and amounts due.


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SPORTS & RECREATION BHARETBHAI MORAR

During 2017, the CHCS established a formal sports and recreation committee with a view to organizing events in which our community members may participate. The general aim was to create a fun environment for all. For ALL events snacks and drinks were enjoyed and prizes awarded. In the upcoming year, the vision is to regularly organize events of this type so that all in our community may challenge each other in a sporting way and have fun at the same time.

The Open Chess Tournament 2017 was hosted on Saturday, 28 October at the CHCS Hall. Young and old, male and female players enrolled. The games began in earnest as players became engrossed to out-maneuver their opponents. The Match Directors Kiranbhai Naran and Rambhai Gopal had their hands full in deciding the winner of games were time ran out. And so the games proceeded until the final match was concluded. We also invited scholars from the Khayelitsha Sai Children to participate in the event and their participation added much excitement to the event. The day ended with everyone left with a sense of achievement.

On Sunday, 29 October, the Table Tennis Tournament 2017 players arrived ready to put bat to ball in order to outplay their opposition. Matches began with the sound of bat and ball echoing in the Hall as heads tried to keep up with the speed of the ball as it went over the net from one side of the table to the other, until one of the players made an error and the point was awarded against him/her. The Referees Jaivantbhai Valodia and Udhirbhai Ramnath were kept busy in managing the games to the concluding final matches of the tournament.

The Cricket Fun Day was held on 28 January 2018 at the Groote Schuur Primary School. Our special guest Shri Abhishek Shukla (New Consulate General of India Cpt) was welcomed and he opened the games by executing some professional batting strokes. With perfect weather, an ideal playing field, enthusiastic family and cheering supporters the beautiful grounds became an entertaining atmosphere and contributed to making the day a memorable one. The players demonstrated their talent, passion and interest in the game and brought immense joy to the spectators. Our anchor umpire, Naleenbhai had to make quick and firm decisions as the excited players wielded appeals at him, until the last ball was bowled.

Shri Abhishekbhai Shukla opening the batting.

OUTREACH SHAMIKBHAI JEEWA

The CHCS set up a dedicated committee in November 2017 to allow for a more structured approach to community based outreach. The Outreach committee conducted its first drive over the December 2017 Christmas period. It raised funds through the Buy-a-Food-Hamper initiative. We raised a sizeable R 7 500, putting together 86 food parcels distributed to local underprivileged communities. The Stationary drive, which is currently being concluded will see the delivery of a number of stationary items to learners in the Manenberg area. We would like to thank our donors and the Cape Town Community for helping us help others, and creating a better life for those in need. Pictures of our recent events can be found online on the CHCS website. In the forthcoming year, we are planning several community based service/outreach projects and look forward to your support.


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MAINTENANCE DR. VIJAYBHAI DAHYA

The primary function of this committee (MC) was to oversee and conduct major maintenance projects or repairs on the premises. During the 2017, we were mandated to examine the possibility of installing a lift/hoist or building a ramp to allow for disabled and elderly persons to access the Mandir. We met with various lift companies to determine the feasibility of such access and had obtained quotes for such a project. We also held discussions with the architect who had drawn up the plans for a ramp. It was agreed in principle that we should create such access to the Mandir. We anticipate that in 2018 – we will be in a position to present our proposal to the officials for approval. The MC assisted Mandir committee with the entire painting (including repairing of various parts) of the inside of the Mandir (including the foyer, dome, kitchen, emergency exit, sound room, ceiling etc.). This project was completed in January 2018.

The following projects are in progress or were completed during the year:

• The tenant’s flat requires attention to the ceiling due to dampness. We are currently sourcing service providers to do the repair work.

• A portion of the electric fence wires was replaced due to tree branch falling on top of the wires. • The fence on the border of the play area and the park was attended to and the pole was replaced and the frames were fixed. • The geyser on GMS floor and the fridge in the kitchen were repaired. • Outside taps near the parking lot and at entrance of the school door have been locked due to abuse of water and the taps at

the side of the hall were replaced. • Gas tank cage was installed for Guru Dwara. • LED globes were fitted on various parts of the premises. • Regarding security on the premises, we are looking at installing an accessed control gate. • The signage outside the Mandir (Radha Krishna Mandir) has been given to a service provider to repair and should be ready

by March 2018.

Whilst 2017 was spent mainly in planning and seeing to much needed 'internal' repairs and maintenance as well as seeing to ad hoc repairs, our focus in 2018 will be on the planning of larger projects. In this regard, our foremost priority is the repair and revision of the Mandir front access including the stairs, creating wheelchair access and repair of the exterior of the Mandir.

TRUSTEES BHARATBHAI BHIKHA

At the Annual General Meeting of the CHCS held in February 2017, the following members were elected as Trustees: Bharatbhai Bhikha, Dolatbhai Makan, Deepakbhai Kalan, Shubhasbhai Rama, Damyantiben Rama, Harishbhai Rama, Kantiebhai Patel. The trustees serve a three-year term in office and the following office bearers were elected at the first Trustees meeting: * Bharatbhai Bhikha – Chairman * Dolatbhai Makan – Secretary * Deepakbhai Kalan – Treasurer

During the past year the trustees have focused their attention on ensuring good governance and compliance with legislation. A significant backlog of items required attention, some of which are described below. • Registration with SARS for e-filing and submission of outstanding tax returns. This matter is being managed by the

Treasurers, with oversight by the Trustees. • Preparing annual reports and submission to the Department of Social Development in compliance with NPO (Non-Profit

Organisation) requirements. • Facilitating the extension of the Priest’s wife’s visa (Smrutiben) in line with the priest’s contract. • Updating the signatories on the various accounts and ensuring FICA compliance. • Attending to the investment of funds. • Reconciling and renewal of the rental agreements for the various tenants and attending to outstanding matters. • Renewal of the insurance policy. • Attending to the caretaker’s contract and employment conditions. A particular challenge with the caretaker was the

resignation of the previous caretaker without notice. A replacement caretaker was found at short notice, who also resigned after six weeks due to a study opportunity. The current caretaker has been with us since November 2017.

Dealing with the authorities on these matters, as many of you will know, is a time-consuming process. The trustees are pleased to report that we have made significant progress on all these matters during the past year. This has not been an easy task, considering that this work is being done in between our normal working lives. The trustees wish to thank those who have given their time, effort, expertise and resources to serve the Society in this manner.

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COMMUNICATIONS NALEENBHAI JERAM

The Communications Committee (“CC”) was launched in March 2017 to primarily facilitate communications between the CHCS and the community. It replaced the previously “Shub and Ashub” Committee. The main focus was aimed at communication and setting up the infrastructures to facilitate effective modes of communications. The CC has set up and maintained the following services: • Website: The existing website (www.capehinducs.org), which was set up as a trial version was incorporated into a fully

functional and official website of the CHCS. The website is continuously being updated with CHCS events (past and future). • Laptop: A dedicated laptop was purchased for the CHCS for administration and storage purposes. • Email: A universal and dedicated email address was set up for the CHCS ([email protected]). The secretary uses this

email to communicate with General Committee members and also sends out notifications to the general public. • CHCS Cellphone – whatsapp messages: A Samsung J5 was purchased to use by the Communications Committee to

primarily send out Whatsapp messages. Messages are sent out via broadcast lists. • Database: We have managed to compile and update the database of community members, which is mainly used for hard

copy letters. The details include name, surname, and address. • Collection of Photos and Videos: We have compiled a collection of old photos and videos from past events of the CHCS.

Most of this content has been or is in the process of being uploaded on the website. • Facebook Page: A facebook community page has been setup as the Radha Krishna Temple. This page is used to promote

events held by the CHCS. We have commenced live broadcasting of events on this page and intend to expand in 2018. • Letterhead: After much deliberation by General Committee members, consensus was reached and an updated letterhead

was approved. This letterhead is available to use as a hardcopy and also as an electronic version. Most of the old letterhead features have been retained with a few modern touch ups and contact details changes.

• SMS: We have registered an account at SMSConnect as this is the most cost efficient way to communicate to community members who are not on Whatsapp but still wish to receive notifications from the CHCS.

• Diwali Magazines: As part of a drive to maintain our historical records, we have obtained the past Diwali magazines published on an annual basis from 1974 to 1992. These were scanned in high resolution and available on our website.

• Backing up of Documents - As a precaution against losing CHCS data, we have initiated a process whereby all information is backed up.

કેપ હિન્દુ કલ્ચરલ સોસાયટી તમારી સતત સપોર્ટ અને સખત મહેનત માટે આપનો આભાર માનવા માટે આ તક લઈએ છીએ!