My Guru, My Inspiration

No matter how old or young someone is, everybody has a guru in their life. In simple terms, a guru can be anyone who guides someone through a certain field of knowledge. But a guru can be more than just a mentor. A guru can shape values and life experiences, and inspire students to wonder beyond what they are learning, making the significance of a guru even more important in a person’s life. Every year, people celebrate Guru Purnima. This year, it was on Wednesday, July 29th. Here’s why people honour this celebration.

Over 15,000 years ago, on the full moon day of Guru Purnima, the first guru was declared. Lord Shiva, the god of destruction, is known as an ‘Adiyogi’, in other words, the ‘First Guru’. Shiva’s seven students performed a full, focused penance for 84 years. When the winter solstice arrived, Adiyogi realized that his students’ perseverance had finally been accomplished, as he observed. On the day of the full moon, he became a guru, sharing his teachings with seven successful students, who would then share their knowledge with other humans.

If I talk about myself, I have a lot of gurus. I consider my gurus to be my parents, teachers, and elders, who all provide me with teachings and advice for the future. I respect them by following what they say and making them proud. That is the most rewarding thing students can do. Apply the knowledge they have given you in life and succeed. Make your guru’s lessons feel impactful.

Happy Guru Purnima to all!

Jiyanshi, Grade 9 | Edited by Shreya

Guru Purnima Celebration at Sanskar

On the auspicious occasion of Guru Poornima, Sanskar Canada brought together grandparents, parents, children, and community members for a deeply devotional offering of 108 Hanuman Chalisa recitations. This year, we honoured Shri Hanuman ji as a revered Guru and spiritual guide, whose life embodies devotion, selfless service, strength, humility, wisdom, and complete surrender to Bhagwan Shri Ram. Goswami Tulsidas ji beautifully expresses this in the Hanuman Chalisa: “Kripa karahu Gurudev ki nai” — seeking Hanuman ji’s grace and guidance as that of a Guru. The collective chanting of 108 Hanuman Chalisas created a powerful atmosphere of devotion, gratitude, and spiritual connection.

The recitation was followed by Aarti and Prasad, bringing the celebration to a beautiful conclusion filled with prayer and fellowship. At Sanskar Canada, Guru Poornima was not only an occasion to honour the Guru, but also an opportunity to pass our spiritual values and traditions from one generation to the next. May Hanuman ji bless us with the strength to serve selflessly, the wisdom to remain humble, and the devotion to continue on the path of Dharma.

Jai Shri Ram! Jai Hanuman!

Rachna Sharma

Math Is Fun! – Summer Camp Special

Sanskar Canada’s Math Is Fun! Summer Camp, held from July 17 to July 21, turned learning into an exciting and engaging experience for our young participants. While Math remained at the heart of the camp, the children’s learning extended far beyond numbers. They explored India, its rich heritage, and the significance of its 80th Independence Day, while also being introduced to the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence. Through age-appropriate activities, they learned how AI can be a helpful learning tool, the importance of using it responsibly, and how thoughtful, well-structured prompts can lead to more useful results.

The week concluded with a heartwarming presentation by the children, where they confidently shared what they had learned—beautifully demonstrating the value and impact of the program. Each day, the children were also provided with breakfast, lunch, and snacks, creating a welcoming environment where they could learn, connect, and enjoy time together. It was a jam-packed week of learning, discovery, creativity, friendship, and fun—a successful summer camp for Sanskar Canada and, more importantly, another meaningful step toward creating a positive impact in our community and preparing our children to become knowledgeable, responsible, and confident future citizens.

Rachna Sharma

Sanskar Setu Seniors Picnic – A Day of Wellness, Laughter & Friendship

Sanskar Canada’s Sanskar Setu Seniors Group came together for a joyful summer picnic at Coronation Park, Oakville, on August 5. Against the beautiful waterfront setting, the day began with a refreshing walk along the lakeshore, followed by Yog and Pranayam to promote physical and mental well-being. An uplifting session of Sankeertan brought everyone together in devotion and positive energy. Laughter filled the air as seniors shared jokes, stories, experiences, and their wonderful talents, making the gathering lively, engaging, and memorable. Delicious food was relished by everyone, but the true highlight of the day was the opportunity to connect, laugh, share, and strengthen friendships. Sanskar Setu is more than a seniors program—it is a growing community where seniors can stay active, feel valued, build meaningful connections, and enjoy a sense of belonging. The Coronation Park picnic beautifully reflected this spirit: wellness was nurtured, talents were celebrated, memories were created, and friendships flourished.

Rachna Sharma