Date: March 22, 2025
The Bay Area Gopa Kuteeram Annual Day event was a grand success, bringing together students, teachers, parents, and devotees for an inspiring and devotional celebration. The event showcased the dedication, talent, and spiritual enthusiasm of children across various Gopa Kuteeram centers.The program commenced with an invocation song and welcome to all attendees.
Event Highlights:
- Beginners Level – These children were from Trivalley, Fremont and online batch. Performances included presenting the divine story of Lord Ganesha and Lord Muruga, primary deities and chanting Ganesha Pancharatnam .
- Intermediate Level –
- Children from San Jose and Trivalley batch rendered Madhurageethams composed by Sri Swamiji filling the atmosphere with devotion. To top it off, children also shared insights from the “I Am Awed” book, which provides youth-friendly explanations of Hindu Dharma.
- A dance and music-based play on Janmashtami with Divyanama Sankirtanam by Trivalley children featuring live singing by one of the children.
- Children from Online batch rendered the beautiful verses of Sri Rangaraja Panchakam written by Sri Sri Anna and Trivalley children showcased the Warkari yatra to Pandharapur.
- Trivalley middle schooler batch conducted an engaging quiz for parents on the three philosophies of Vaishnavism. Both parents and children participated enthusiastically.
- Clubs –
- Performers from the Sampradaya Bhajan Club captivated the audience with a mesmerizing rendition of the 4th Ashtapadi from the Gita Govinda and melodious kirtans.
- A unique discussion with Hari Katha Club members was interesting to hear on how these children applied the learnings to real life – managing their emotions, keeping a positive outlook in challenging situations and continuing to have steadfast devotion towards God.
- Children from Vishnu Sahasranamam Club shared a unique topic that connects the wisdom of the Mahabharata to the significance of the 1000 names of Lord Vishnu and chanted the Dhyana slokas.
- Presentations –
- Jagadeeshji elaborated on the values, vision, and objectives of the Gopa Kuteeram program. What sets GK apart is the vision of a Mahatma like our Sri Swamiji who advocates for ‘Learn Krishna. Learn Yourself.’ He also emphasized the importance of parents leading by example in devotion, inspiring their children to walk the same path.
- Mukundji shared insights on the Puranava cultural festival held in Feb 2025 in Fremont. He walked through its inspiration, the various activities and events, and the motivation behind this wonderful celebration of culture
- Honoring Long-Time Teachers – A special segment celebrated teachers for their decade-long contributions to Gopa Kuteeram.
- The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Shankarji, appreciating the efforts of all children, teachers, volunteers, and organizers.
Attendees left with a sense of joy and spiritual enrichment, looking forward to another year of learning and devotion.
