1

May 2017Newsletter Vol 26, No. 5

6905 Cipriano Road, Lanham MD 20706Tel: (301) 552-3335 Fax: (301) 552-1204

E-Mail: ssvt@ssvt.org Web Site: http://www.ssvt.org

Sri Siva Vishnu Temple

Sri Sankara Jayanthi Day CelebrationSaturday, May 6, 2017

SSVT will be celebrating Sri Sankara Jayanthi on Saturday, May 6 in the auditorium. The events will start at 7:20 AM with Ganesha Puja followed by Kalasa Sthapanam, Rudra (Siva) Abhisheka and Shodasa Upachara Puja to Sri Adi Sankara. A highlight of the Puja will be the chanting of Totakaashtakam and Guru Paduka Stotram by a group of children along with others. The details of the program are given below: 7:20 am Ganesha Puja, Kalasa Sthapanam 8:15 am Rudra (Siva) Abhisheka and puja to Adi Sankara

10:00 am Stotra Seva by Children, Deeparadhana11:00 am Pallaki Seva (Procession with picture of Adi Sankara)12:30 pm Mahamangalarathi and Prasadam Distribution

Nrsimha JayanthiTuesday, May 9, 2017

6:00 pm Praakaara Nrsimha Abhishekam, Archana, Deeparadhana

7:15 pm Sri Yoga Nrsimha Abhishekam, Sri Nrsimha Avataara Parayanam from Srimad Bhaagavatam & Sri Narayaneeyam, Archana, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Sthotram Parayanam, Deeparadhana

8:45 pm Prasadam DistributionSponsorship: $25

Basava Jayanthi CelebrationSaturday, May 13, 2017

Basava Jayanthi is traditionally observed by the Lingayats and is observed as a holiday in the Indian state of Karnataka. It marks the birthday of Basavanna, 12th-century poet-philosopher, and the founding saint of the Veerashaiva (Lingayat) sect. It is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety all over south India, principally in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Basava took birth on third day of Vaisakha month of the Anandanama (Samvatsara) year in Rohini (Nakshatra) star.

[This program is jointly hosted by The Veerashaiva Samaja of North America‐ MD, VA and DC chapters, and the SSVT; For additional information, please contact: Dr. Savitha Siddalingaiah (410‐252‐4896), Mr. Raj Galagali (703‐ 444‐3059)] 9:15 am ‐ 10:15 am Rudrabhishekha, Archana and Deeparadhana10:30 am ‐ 1:30 pm Spiritual/ Cultural Program (in the auditorium)Lunch (at cafeteria)

Meenakshi KalyanamSunday, May 14, 2017

The union of Lord Siva with Parvati in the form of Meenak-shi took place in Madurai on the Chitra Poornima day. This union is celebrated in many of the Siva temples around the world as Meenakshi Kalyanam. Lord Vishnu, who is the brother of Meenakshi, gave away the bride to Lord Siva. Hence in our temple which is dedicated to Siva and Vishnu (and their fam-ilies) this festival has an added significance.9:30 am Wedding Procession and Oonjal Seva10:00 am Meenakshi Kalyanam12:00 noon Deepa aradhana & Prasadam DistributionKalyanam $ 25

HANUMAT JAYANTI (VEDIC) Saturday, May 20, 2017

People in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh observe Hanu-mat Jayanti on Lunar Vaisakha Bahula (Krishna) Dasami. This day falls on Saturday, May 20 this year according to North American Panchangam. On this day, there will be Sahasranama Archana and a special Vada Al-ankaaram to Lord Anjaneya. Those devotees who would like to bring Vadas (no onions or garlic in the Vadas please!) for the Alankaram are requested to do so by 5:30 pm so that the priests may plan the decoration accordingly. Participation by more than 100 devotees in the Sahasranama Archana will make it a Laksharchana. Spon-sorship is not a requirement to participate in the Sahasranama Achana. There will be no butter Alankaaram during that day.

9:30 am Anjaneya Moola Mantra Homam 6:00 pm Anjaneya Abhishekam, Special Vada Alankaaram, Sahasranama

Archana, Deeparadhana, Prasadam Distribution @ 8.30 pm

Sponsorship: $ 25

2

RELIGIOUS CALENDARMay 2017

Mon 1 10:00 AM Rama Abhishekam (Punarvasu)10:00 AM Subrahmanya Abhishekam (Sashti)

Fri 5 10:00 AM Andal abhishekam (Purva Phalguni)10:00 AM Parvati Abhishekam

Sat 6 Sankara Jayanti Celebrations (See Details)10:00 AM Ayyppa Puja (Uttara Phalguni)

4:00 PM Anantha Padmanabha Abhishekam (Ekadasi)4:00 PM Srinivasa Kalyanam

Sun 7 4:00 PM Siva Abhishekam (Maha Pradosham)Tue 9 Narasimha Jayanti (see Details)

9:30 AM Sudarsana / Yoga Narasimha Homam7:00 PM Satyanarayana Puja (Poornima)7:15 PM Sudarsana/Yoga Nrsimha Abhishekam(Swati)

Wed 10 10:00 AM Utsava Subramanya Abhishekam (Visakha)Fri 12 10:00 AM Durga AbhishekamSat 13 Basava Jayanti Celebrations (See Details)Sun 14 9:30 AM Ganesha Homam (Sankatahara Chaturthi)

10:00 AM Meenakshi Kalyanam (See Details)10:00 AM Anjaneya Abhishekam (Moola)

4:00 PM Ganesha Abhishekam (Sankatahara Chaturthi)Tue 16 10:00 AM Subramanya Abhishekam (Sashti)Wed 17 10:00 AM Utsava Srinivasa Abhisshekam (Sravana)Fri 19 10:00 AM Mahalakshmi Abhishekam

10:00 AM Bhagavathi SevaSat 20 6:00 PM Anjaneya Abhishekam (Hanumat Jayanti - Vedic) See DetailsSun 21 10:00 AM Ayyappa PujaMon 22 7:00 PM Ananthapadmanabha Abhishekam (Ekadasi)Tue 23 7:00 PM Siva Abhishekam (Pradosham)Wed 24 9:00 AM Venkateshwara Brahmotsavam Begins (See Details)Thu 25 10:00 AM Utsava Subramanya Abhishekam (Krittika)Fri 26 10:00 AM Sarada abhishekam

10:00 AM Krishna Abhishekam (Rohini)Sat 27 9:30 AM Navagraha Homam & Abhishekam

4:00 PM Rama Abhishekam (Punarvasu)Sun 28 8:00 AM Venkateshwara Brahmotsavam Concludes

9:30 AM Ganesha Homam and Abhishekam (Chaturthi)Tue 30 10:00 AM Subrahmanya Abhishekam (Sashti)

June 2017Thu 1 10:00 AM Andal abhishekam (Purva Phalguni)Fri 2 10:00 AM Parvati Abhishekam

10:00 AM Ayyppa Puja (Uttara Phalguni)Sat 3 9:30 AM Siva Brahmotsavam Begins (See Details)

4:00 PM Srinivasa KalyanamSun 4 4:00 PM Ananthapadmanabha Abhishekam (Ekadasi)Tue 6 9:30 AM Sudarsana / Yoga Nrsimha Homam & Abhishekam (Swati)

7:00 PM Siva Abhishekam (Pradosham)Wed 7 9:30 AM Subrahmanya Homam and Abhishekam (Vaikasi Visakham)

9:30 AM Siva Brahmotsavam ConcludesThu 8 7:00 PM Satyanarayana PujaFri 9 10:00 AM Durga Abhishekam Sat 10 4:00 PM Anjaneya Abhishekam (Moola)Sun 11 9:30 AM Vaikasi Visakham Celebration (See Details)Mon 12 9:30 AM Ganesha Homam (Sankatahara Chaturthi)

7:00 PM Ganesha Abhishekam (Sankatahara Chaturthi)Tue 13 10:00 AM Utsava Srinivasa Abhishekam (Shravana)Thu 15 10:00 AM Subrahmanya Abhishekam (Sashti)

Rest of June in the next newsletter

DAILY & WEEKLY ABHISHEKAMSDaily Abhishekams

Daily: 9:30 AM Ayyappa, Anantha Padmanabha10:00 AM Siva

Weekly AbhishekamsMonday: 9:30 AM Ganesha, Sri RamaTuesday: 9:30 AM Durga, AnjaneyaWednesday: 9:30 AM Andal, Sarada, NavagrahasThursday: 9:30 AM Krishna, SubrahmanyaFriday: 9:30 AM Mahalakshmi, Parvati, Sudarsana/Yoga NarasimhaSaturday: 10:15 AM Venkateswara

Temple Hours: Monday through Friday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (except for special events); Saturday, Sunday, & Holidays: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

A Mini Bazaar with Maximum FUN!Saturday June 24 th 2017, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM!

Please join us with family and friends at SSVT on Saturday, June 24th from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM to enjoy your favorite foods like masala dosa, bhelpuri, puri chana, etc. and of course a bit of shopping!!

3

VENKATESHWARA BRAMHOTSAVAMWednesday, May 24- Saturday, May 28, 2017

To ward off all sins, Brahmotsavam is celebrated. Lord Brahma Himself is believed to have celebrated the first Brahmotsavam to please His father Vishnu and according to some legend this was the beginning of the Brahmotasavam. In keeping with the tradition, Venkateswara Brahmotsavam

will be celebrated in our temple from May 24 to May 28. One of the most important features of the Brahmotsavam is the Brahma Rathotsavam (Chariot Festival) on the last day wherein everybody gets to pull the chariot.

Wednesday, May 249:00 am to1:00pm Suprabhatam, Vishwaksena Aaradhana, Anugnay, Vasudeva Punyaahavachana, Rakshabandanam, Mritsangrahanam, Angurarpanam, Prahtaraaradhana, Shanti patham, Veda Vinnappam, Satumurai, Chatusthanaarchana, Agni Prathishtam, Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, Vainatheya Prathishtapana, Dwaja Aarohanam, Garuda Prasadam (Santana Praptyartham), Bali Harana, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavaari. 5:00pm to 9:00pm Vishnu Sahasranama,Chatusthanaarchana, Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, Bhereetadanam, Devataahvaanam, Bali Haranam, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthaavari, Shayanothsavam.

Thursday, May 259:00 am to 1:00 pm Suprabhatam, Seva Kalam, Prahtaraaradhana,Shanti Patham, Veda Vinnappam, Satumurai, Chatusthanaarchana, Moolamantra Homam, Bali Haranam, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari. 5:00pm to 9:00pm Vishnu Sahasranama, Chatusthanaarchana, Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, Bali Haranam, Sangeeta Seva, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari, Shayanotsavam.

Friday, May 269:00 am to1:00 pm Suprabhatam, Seva Kalam, Prahtaraaradhana, Shanti Patham, Veda Vinnappam, Satumurai, Chatusthanaarchana, Moolamantra Homam, Sudarshana Homam,Poornahuti, Utsavaarambha Snapanam, Bali Haranam, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari, 108 Kalasa Sthapanam. 5:00pm to 9:00pm Vishnu Sahasranama, Chatusthanaarchana,Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, Bali Haranam, Mahalakshmi Aaradhana and Deepotsava, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari, Shayanotsavam.

Saturday, May 27 7:00 am to 1:00pm Suprabhatam, Seva Kalam, Prahtaraaradhana, Shanti Patham, Veda Vinnappam, Satumurai, Chatusthana archana, Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, 108 Kalasa Venkateswara Abhishekam, Lakshaarchana, Sangeeta Seva, Tirupavada Seva, Bali Haranam, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari 3:30 pm Vishnu Sahasranamam 6:00 pm Garuda Vahana Praakaara Utasavam, Chatusthanaarchana,

Moolamantra Homam, Poornahuti, Bali Harana 7:30 pm Venkateswara Deepotsava, Dolotsava, Sangeeta Seva,

Mangalasashanam, Teerthavari, Shayanotsavam.

Sunday, May 288:00am -10:00am Suprabhatam, Seva Kalam, Prahtaraaradhana, Shanti Patham, Veda Vinnappam, Satumurai, Chatusthana archana, Moolamantra Homam, Mahapoornahuti. 10:00 am Special Kalyanotsavam (Srinivasa Kalyanam)

12:00 Noon Brahma Rathotsavam, Bali Haranam, Mangalasaasha nam, Teerthagoshti.

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Sripushpayaagam, Dwadasha Aaradhana, Devata Udhvasana, Dwaja Aavaarohana, Chakra Teertham, Kumbha Prokshana, Acharya Sambhavana, Asheervadam, Mangalasaashanam, Teerthavari Sponsorship: One Homam, one Abhishekam, Kalyana Utsavam $25; Rathotsavam $25; Any one puja $25; One day’s Pujas $51 per day; Entire Brahmotsavam $201

SIVA BRAHMOTSAVAM Saturday, June 3 to Wednesday, June 7, 2017

According to both Shaiva and Vaishnava Agamas, Brahmotsavam is considered to be the chief among the festivals conducted for the main deities of a temple. Legend says that Lord Brahma himself officiated the first utsavam to mitigate Indra’s sins arising from a happenstance event. Since then, annual Brahmotsavams are carried out for both Slva and Vishnu to enable the devotees to wash away their sins and negativities. Even Lord Brahma and other Devas are said to visit such utsavams and bless the devotees.

The word Brahma in Brahmotsavam, denotes the supreme Brahman - the absolute one. By performance of this Brahmotsavam, the Jeevaathmas reach the Supreme Brahman in the simplest way. The five-day annua1 event for Lord Siva starts on June 3rd followed by special pujas for Lord Siva every day. Siva Brahmotsavam concludes on Vaikasi Vishaaka nakshatrarn day this year (Wednesday, June 7), a special day for His Divine Son, Lord Subrahmanya.

Saturday, June 3, 2017Morning - 9:30 am to 12:00 noonGanapathy Homam, Prasannabhishekam, Navagraha homam, Skanda Homam, Pashupathasthra Santhi Homam.Evening - 5:00 to 9:00 pmVighneshwara Pooja, Deivanugnya, Pravesha Bali, Vasthu Santhi, Rakshoghna Homam, Mruthsangrahanam

Sunday, June 4, 2017Morning – 9:30 am to 1 pmBeri Thaadanam, Devathaahwaanam, Nava Sandhi Aavaahanam, Santhi Abhisheka for the Utsava MurthyEvening - 5:30pm to 9:00 pmAnkuraarpanam, Rakshaabandanam, Yagashalaarchanam, Agni Kaaryam, Dikbali Vidhanam, Special Deeparadhana to Moola Murthy and Utsava Murthy , Yaga Veekshanyam, Utsava Murthy Pradakshina

Monday, June 5, 2017Morning - 9:30 to 1:00 pm / Evening 5:30 to 9 pmSpecial Abhisheka Aaradhana , Yagashala Pooja, Vishesha Homam, , Dik Bali Vidhanam, Special Deeparadhana to the Utsava Murthy, Yaga Veekshanyam, Utsava Murthy Pradakshina

Tuesday, June 6, 2017 Morning - 9:30 to 1:00 pm / Evening 5:30 to 9 pmSpecial Abhisheka Aaradhana , Yagashala Pooja, Vishesha Homam, Dik Bali Vidhanam, Special Deeparadhana to the Utsava Murthy, Yaga Veekshanyam, Utsavar Pradakshina

Wednesdy, June 7, 2017Morning 9:30 am to 1 pmYagasala Puja, Maha Poornahuthi, Special Abhishekam (Yaagalaya Yagnya Kalasaabhishekam) to Lord Ramanatha along with Utsava Murthi, Choornothsavam, Teerthothsavam, Raksha Visarjanam, Beri Thadanam, Nava Sandhi Devatha Visarjanam, Swami Pradakshina, Aacharyothsavam, Bhakthothsavam, Prasadam Distribution, Bhagavath Aasheerwadam, Aacharya Bhojanam.Sponsorships:One Day - $101; All Five Days - $501; One Abhishekam/Homam - $25

4

Vaikasi Vishakam CelebrationSunday June 11, 2017

During the month of Vaikasi (Vrishabam) the Nakshatram Vishakam generally falls on the full moon day. This day signifies the birth of Lord Subrahmanya, the second son of Lord Siva. Lord Subrahmanya was born with the mission of saving earth from demons such as Soorapadman. He emerged as 6 sparks from the third eye of Siva, and passing through sky, wind, fire and the waters of Ganga, reached earth, formless at first and finally acquiring form in a pond. That the Almighty comprises the five elements is demonstrated by the manifestation of Lord Subrahmanya.

Lord Subrahmanya is also known by many names including as Vishaka, Senthil, Kumara, Shanmugam, Lord Karthikeya and fondly as Muruga. Lord Murugan has six faces and because of that He is also known as Lord Arumugam. Due to His six faces Lord Murugan can see in East, West, North, South, Heaven and Patala (netherworld) simultaneously.

Vaikasi Visakam is celebrated with much religious importance and fervor at the Arupadaiveedu of Lord Muruga or the six adobes of Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu. These temples are the Pazhani Hill Temple in Pazhani, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple at Tiruchendur, Arulmigu Swaminatha Swami Temple at Swamimalai, Thiruthani Murugan Temple, Sri Subramanya Temple at Pazhamudircholai, and Thiruparamkundram Subramanya Swamy Temple. It is also celebrated in many a Murugan Temple throughout the world including SSVT.This year, Vaikasi Vishakam falls on Wednesday June 7. At SSVT, we will also have a Vaikasi Vishakam Celebration on Sunday June 11. This will also include the Paal Kudam (Kalasams filled with milk) procession around the temple prior to abhishekam and the Utsava Murthy procession on the Mayura Vahanam in the evening. Details are given below. 9:30 am Ganesha Puja, Subrahmanya Moola Mantra Homam10:30 am Subrahmanya Abhishekam with 108 milk kalasams, Shashti

Kavacham Recitation, Bhajans, Archana 1:30 pm Deeparadhana & Prasadam Distribution 6:30 p.m. Utsava Murthy Procession on the Mayura Vahanam

Sponsorship:Homam $25, Milk Kalasam Sponsorship $25, Homam & Milk Kalasam Sponsorship $35

|| Śrīmatē Rāmānujāya Nama:||

6905 Cipriano Road, Lanham MD 20706Tel: (301) 552-3335 Fax: (301) 552-1204

E-Mail: ssvt@ssvt.org Web Site: http://www.ssvt.org

Sri Siva Vishnu Temple

On the occasion of Sri Ramanuja Acharya’s 1000th Birth Anniversary, SSVT Publications humbly dedicates a

comprehensive Volume of Essays andan Illustrated Biography to the Acharya!

This 2-part Volume “Srimad Ramanuja - An Acharya for All Ages” has something for everyone eager to know more about Sri Ramanuja’s life and legacy! A total of 10 essays are arranged contextually

in two parts.Part I is a compilation of essays by renowned thinker, scholar and laureate Dr. Prema Nandakumar giving a comprehensive view of Sri Ramanuja’s life long accomplishments. She takes us over 1000 years tracing the lasting influence of the Acharya on Hindu religion across India and beyond. The essays in Part II are intended for those looking for an in-depth view of his life and philosophy. The historical circumstances that shaped him as a religious leader are narrated in a lucid style. Tracing his life of 120-years one year at a time, the essays also introduce his unique work Gadya Trayam to the readers. An attempt to find common ground among the three salient Vedantic schools wraps this unique book. This volume of essays written by Srivaishnava scholars and practitioners from India and the USA is our modest effort to acquaint Hindu Americans and others with the Life and Legacy of Sri Ramanuja.

Srimad Ramanuja - An Acharya for All Ages

Sri Ramanuja - An Illustrated Biography

Books are on sale at SSVT and www.ssvt.org

Sri Ramanuja - An Illustrated Biography is a unique picture book for youth and young at heart! A creative volume with paintings from award winning

local artist Shanthi Chandrasekar along with a narrative text by Anya Iyengar of California, this book is a treat for the eyes and minds of our young people.

Grand Vocal Concert: Smt Amritha Murali

Accompanied by Sri RK Shriramkumar (Violin) & Sri Arun Prakash (Mridangam)5:00-8:00PM - SSVT Auditorium – Followed by Annadanam

For further information and to get email updates contact: papanasam.ssvt@gmail.com / cultural.ssvt@gmail.com

5

4TH ANNUAL SSVT

SPECIAL INCLUSION – KRITHIS OF SRI GN BALASUBRAMANIAN (GNB)Saturday, May 20, 2017 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

SRI PAPANASAM SIVAN FESTIVAL

Join us in a full-day celebration of wonderful dance and music programs by individuals and groups presenting the great krithis of Sri Papanasam Sivan and Sri GN Balasubramaniam

Click here to Register Registration will be on a first come basis and will close on 30th April or earlier if slots are full - Admission Free, Donations Welcome

SSVT Cultural Committee presents: Workshop & Concert by: Prince Rama Varma

Leading disciple of the late great Dr. M. BalamuralikrishnaDirect Descendant of Raja Swathi Thirunal

Workshop: Thursday, 4 May 2017 (7PM – 9 PM)Concert: Saturday, 6 May 2017 (4PM – 7 PM)

Accompanists: Sri Avaneeswaram Vinu (Violin); Sri Trichy Harikumar (Mridangam)Venue: SSVT Auditorium

Prince Rama Varma Workshops are famous for their focus on the essence of ragas and krithis Limited availability for a wonderful learning opportunity!

Workshop is open to adults and youngsters able to sing varnams and krithisAdmission: $20 per person (Workshop OR Concert); $30 per person (Both)

Click on link below to register and purchase tickets:https://ssvt.org/RamaVarmaConcertTickets.asp

For further information and to get email updates for cultural events, contact: SSVT Cultural: cultural.ssvt@gmail.com

6

Dr. Vijay KowthaDr. Vijay Kowtha has been an active volunteer at SSVT since 1990s in various capacities within the Education/Outreach/PR, Engineering, and Cultural Committees. His passion has been to work with school-aged students, challenging them intellectually through science, engineering, computer programming, and robotics. Since the

1980s, Vijay has taken the initiative and leadership to organize informal 4H camps, robotics club, and various mechanical and electrical teams geared towards collaborative teamwork.

Under Vijay’s leadership, SSVT provides meeting space to students from the community comprising of homeschoolers, private and public students from Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George counties in Maryland, and extending to students from DC and Virginia. The team Brahma ~ Illusion 4464 is an active competitor in regional competitions tasked to build robots that meet the competitions specifications – such as an autonomous Frisbee shooter, 25 inch diameter ball shooter, FedEx truck, rock hurler and this year a monkey bar climber. Students are coached in concepts from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer programming to aid in the robot construction.

The team Illusion 4464 meets several days a week (so far they have averaged 30 hour weeks this year!) to prepare for the competitions. Students have a track record of being winners at competitions and representing the DC metro area at national championships. The volunteers act as mentors to students providing technical guidance, and a sense of belonging to young minds. Dr. Vijay Kowtha, a neuroscientist by profession dedicates enormous amount of energy, finances, and time to facilitate the Robotics team as a community outreach service supported by SSVT Educational Committee.

Spotlight on our Teachers in the Education Programs(Each month we will have a spotlight on our teachers in the Education Programs)

RoboticsBalavidyalayam Students’ Annual Show On April 1, 2017 the creativity and dedication of Balavidyalayam students was showcased in their recitation of Gayatri Ramayanam, drawn from the original text of Valmiki Ramayanam. Students also presented various scenes (Kaikeyi’s request to Dasharatha, Shoorpanaka’s disfuguration, and abduction of Seetha) to portray their understanding of dharma and satya incorporating concepts of ahimsa.

Parents - Students Bonding

Cricket game between students and parents

7

SSVT EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Program

Balavidyalayam Children’s Educational Program - Sun @ 10am – 11:30am: Dr. Aparna RamaswamyUsing a strong program built on Samskritha verses, Indian mythology, bhajans, dance, kolam art & games, teachers inspire students to inquire into their cultural & social relevance. Balavidyalayam educates children over 5 years of age about Hindu practices, teaching how to incorporate concepts of dharma and truth in their everyday life in the US. Please enroll your student for classes at www.ssvt.org/Home/Balavidyalayam.asp

Bhagavad Geeta Classes for Adults with Guided Meditation - Sun @ 9:15am – 10:30am: Shri. Vijay KumarThe Bhagavad Gita is a doctrine of universal truth. It is a part of the scriptural trinity of Sanatana Dharma. The Gita deals with the most sacred metaphysical science as it imparts the knowledge of the self and answers two universal questions: Who am I? How can I lead a happy and peaceful life in this world of dualities?

Bhagavatam for Adults - Sun @ 3:30pm – 5pm: Dr. Thaila RamanathanBhagavatam is considered the purnaana tilakam, vaishnavaanaam dhanam, bhkti, jnaana, vairaaghya pradaayakam. The pancama skandham in the Bharata Rahoogana Savaadam is presently discussed in class, along with word by word meaning, its explanation and significance.

Upanishads for Adults - 2nd Sun @ 12pm – 1:30pm: Dr. Pradeep KamathAll ten principal Upanishads - isha, kena, kaTha, taittiriiya, aitareya, muNDaka, maaNDukya, prashna, chaandogya and bRhdaaraNyaka are consid-ered from different perspectives. When discussing a Upanishad, often related verses are invoked - from the Bhagavad-Giita, and sometimes even the aphorisms from the Brahma Suutras. After each session, written material is provided to all attendees.

Sri Rudram Classes - Sat @ 12pm – 1pm : Shri. Ananth KrishnanPlease download or print Sri Rudram pdf files, available in English, Kannada, Malayalam, Samskritham, Tamil, and Telugu at www.ssvt.org/Education/SriRudram.asp and bring to the class.

Weekend Yoga - Sat @ 7:30am – 10:30am: Dr. Rajan NarayananWhile traditionally yoga is thought as an art and philosophy of the nature of existence and connecting with the source of all, recent development of science in the area of coherence of matter makes yoga measurable and scientific as well. Our Saturday sessions brings this regular practice that is accessible to all: young and old, healthy or otherwise. Please walk-in any Saturday. No prior reservation is needed. The practices are gentle in nature within the capacity of most individuals. It consists of physical, breath, sound vibrations, affirmations and meditative observation.

Midweek Yoga - Tues @ 6:30pm – 8pm: Shri SabnisThis is gentle yoga class for all levels and age groups with modifications for advanced practitioners. The class includes asana-s of all types; forward bend, backward bend, twist, balancing, strengthening, inversions etc. Also included are powerful breathing techniques, energy center cleansing tech-niques, relaxation, and mantra chanting for spiritual growth. The class is taught by a certified yoga teacher.

Spoken Samskritham - Sun @ 10:30am – 12pm: Smt. Savithri DevarajThis is a beginners-level class where no prior knowledge of Samskritham is required, although knowledge of any Indian language will help

SAT Class - 1st & 3rd Sun @ 3pm – 5pm: Shri. Chandra SekaranMeets every month on the 1st and 3rd Sundays. Students are encouraged to sign-up for guidance on SAT preparation. Classes are organized into two semesters: September - January and February - June.

Robotics & Computer Programming – Mon & Fri @ 6pm: Shri. Vijay KowthaThis class is designed for teenage students and covers computer programming (Python, C, and Java), mechanical toolkit training, and concepts of electrical engineering. Classes are taught by professionals and college students. Please contact us to know of upcoming events, science café lectures, and to enroll in classes.

Tripura Rahasya - 2nd Sun @ 2pm: Shri. Kavi Rao VajjhalaTripura Rahasya is a secret doctrine that describes several stories of the manifestation of the Universal divine mother, as disclosed to Dattatreya. The shloka-s are in Sanskrit, and their meanings are translated into English for the benefit of all the listeners. The next class meets on March 12th and students will be informed of future meetings in class.

Devotional Bhajan Classes for Adults - Sunday 12 noon - 1 pm Smt. Prabha Maruvada Devotional songs, bhajans, Skloka-s set to melodic tunes, songs on religious festivals and deities, light music and much more. Childrens classes offered periodically - information provided in class.

ALL EDUCATION CLASSES ARE FREE. Contact information for all education programs: education@ssvt.org

Learn More about Your Roots & Culture

Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Bhajans at SSVTSri Shirdi Sai Baba Bhajans will be held at SSVT every First Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. To participate or for more information please contact: Shobha Prasad 240-568-9151; Sridevi Umesh 301-560-3102; Srini Tirumalasetti 443-540-4110; Rohini Homnappa 240-441-1266; Sujatha Badrinath 301-805-1943.

The SSVT Senior Citizens Group meets twice a month on the second and fourth Wednesday in the Education room from 11 am to 1 pm followed by a potluck lunch in the cafeteria. We invite all seniors 55+ to join us at the meetings and share our seniors-related common interests. We invite speakers from within and outside the group to talk on topics of interest to senior citizens, such as those related to health, religion, finance, legal matters. vacation travel, etc. We also hold programs such as music & comedy, picnics and bus trips which would help promote social interaction between members of the group. For more information please contact: Sudarshan Gupta at 301-262-5031 or Sudarshan_gupta@yahoo.com, Satish Bhandari at 301-464-7381 or seniorcitizensgroup@gmail.com, Sharan Prasad at 301-464-1475 or prasadsharan@ymail.com, Ramesh Godbole at 301-459-5942 or rameshgodbole@yahoo.com.

SSVT SENIOR CITIZENS MEET UP

Homeless SEVA, Sandwich Program, Second Saturdays, 2017Each month, on the 2nd Saturday, volunteers make sandwiches for the homeless. Every time, roughly about 1500 sandwiches are prepared and delivered to Martha’s Table, a DC shelter. SSVT encourages all devotees especially youth to participate in the program. Please be at the Temple at 10:30 am. Devotees can sponsor this program by donating $175 to SSVT. For additional information, please send email to Jaithm@gmail.com , Tribhuvannath Mishra, Contact Phone number-571.214.3198.

SSVT COMMUNITY SERVICE

Non ProfitU.S. Postage Paid

Permit #6038Suburban, MD

SRI SIVA VISHNU TEMPLE6905 Cipriano RoadLanham, MD 20706

UPCOMING CULTURAL EVENTSDate & Time Event / Artist Venue & Admission Fee

Friday, May 05, 20177:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Saturday, May 06, 20174:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Prince Rama Varma Workshop Open to adults and youngsters able to sing varnams and krithis

Prince Rama Varma Concert

SSVT Auditorium

Admission – Combined Workshop and Concert ticket - $30 per person – available on SSVT web siteClick to Register and Purchase TicketsSee web site for more details later

Saturday, May 20, 2017All Day 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

4th Annual SSVT Sri Papanasam Sivan FestivalSpecial Inclusion – Krithis by GNBIndividual and Group Music Presentations and Dances. Grand evening concert by Smt Amrita Murali followed by Annadanam

SSVT AuditoriumAdmission FreeRegistration now closedLook for more details later on the web site and in the email flash

Sunday, June 04, 20174:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Grand Vocal Concert – Smt Raji GopalakrishnanKamalakiran Vinjamuri – ViolinVijay Ganesh – MrudangamSamyuktha Sriram - Ghatam

SSVT AuditoriumAdmission FreeDonations welcome

Saturday, June 10, 2017

4 PM – 7 PM

250th Birth Anniversary of Saint ThyagarajaMemorial Lecture – V. Sriram

SSVT AuditoriumAdmission FreeDonations Welcome

Saturday, June 17, 2017 & Sunday, June 18, 2017Both Days 9 AM – 9 PM

DC Music Youth Festival – Next Gen ProgramVarious Performers

SSVT AuditoriumAdmission Free, Donations Welcome

SAVE THE DATE:

Sunday, October 08, 2017

SSVT Mahotsav Fundraiser Concert – Sanjay Subramaniam

Eleanor Roosevelt School, MD

Ticketed –Includes Dinner More Details Later

OBITUARYTV Parasuram, a long-time resident of the Washington DC area, passed away on February 13 of this year. Mr. Parasuram and his wife have been long time devotees of the Shiva Vishnu Temple and made many friends during their numerous visits over the years. Mr. Parasuram enjoyed going to the Temple and felt that it was his home away from home. Mr. Parasuram first came to the USA in 1958 as a Harvard Nieman Fellow, after which he took on an assignment as the US correspondent for the Press Trust of India, based out of the United Nations in New York. In 1962, Mr. Parasuram and his family moved to Washington DC, where he took up a posting as the US correspondent for the Indian Express Newspapers. Mr. Parasuram

spent many years as the Indian Express correspondent, but finished his career at the Press Trust of India before retiring at the age of 83. He was very passionate about his craft, and could talk about politics with anyone who would listen, and at any hour of the day.During his time in Washington, Mr. Parasuram had the opportunity to meet many dignitaries and report on many major new stories which Indians in and outside of India came to rely on. He was a very humble man, and a friend to all. Mr. Parasuram was a beloved member of the community and on behalf of his family, we would like to thank all the members of the SSVT family for their kind support during a very difficult time.