As spring ushers us into its fold with warmth and an infinite blossoms, the Hindu community of New England prepares to share their rich and diverse heritage with others in a colorful and joyous annual event. This year the 7th Hindu Heritage Day is on Saturday, May 22, 2004, 5:00 PM at Waltham High School, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham, MA 02452. In the past years, the event has showcased exuberant displays of artistic and spiritual heritage from Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand and India. The Governor of Massachusetts has declared this day as the Hindu Heritage Day for the past seven years.

This years' theme is "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah," (May there be happiness everywhere). It highlights the universal, all-embracing world-view of the ancient Vedic Rishis of India. The prayer is a reminder that the Hindu tradition is rooted in the concept of interconnectedness of this entire creation that is constantly expressing and regenerating itself in ever new and varied forms. It is because of this realization that the Hindus have evolved a life style that respects everything in Mother Nature, from the tree, herbs, waters, sun, fire, air to the smallest of the creatures. The Vedic peace prayers call for simple and sustainable living, in harmony with our environment - an environment that is affected by our actions (karma) on the physical as well as the spiritual planes.

As in the past, some of the best artists in the area will perform at the event. The cultural program will be followed by a sumptuous vegetarian dinner. The activities for children include face painting, puzzles, story telling, and mehndi. There will be booths for children's books, summer camps and for organizations that conduct culture classes such as music, dance, yoga and languages.

The Hindu Heritage Day organizing committee, that includes members from a host of socio-cultural organizations in the Massachusetts area, invites the people of New England to join the celebrations. One can register on-line by sending e-mail at: hhdboston@yahoo.com, or by contacting Shree Brij Garg for details at 603-898-1312.

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