In the contemporary world, we do our best to prepare our children for the future by teaching them the skills of math, science, and technology. However, what provisions have been made for the tools that help them deal with an increasingly stressful world filled with self-doubt, emotional turmoil, and mental challenges? What about tools that foster humility, resilience, or a profound sense of purpose?
My name is Kalpana Rajesh. Like many people, I did not have a planned journey into our spiritual heritage. It started with the simple, devotional songs from a temple loudspeaker during my childhood.
Those melodies sparked a lifelong connection. Years later, I transitioned into the entrepreneurial world. While navigating some financial struggles, I made a silent vow that I would dedicate my life to teaching the Ramayanam if my financial struggles eased.
As fate would have it, I was instead guided towards the deep teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, which I started teaching to children in my small rural township free of cost. What started as simple weekly gatherings transformed into a daily enriched venture that included shlokas, values of Sanatana Dharma, and practices for inner peace.
During the process of teaching these children, I, too, underwent a transformation. I became more organized as my thoughts became increasingly clearer. These children were teachers of my soul, aiding in my purification and elevation.
This illustrated a need that spanned a broad spectrum. Despite the education system doing its best to resolve multi-faceted issues, it overlooks the foundational self-regulation, commitment, and tranquility. The positive changes I noticed in my students compelled me to aid every parent in some way. Students began to demonstrate improved self-esteem, sharpened attention, and appropriate behavioural responses.
As part of this initiative, I developed a guide titled: “Shlokas for Students.”
I am pleased to announce that my reflections and teachings have coalesced into a digital document which I am offering out of affection.
It goes without saying that my guide contains far more than a series of prayers. It is a user-friendly toolkit for parents seeking to effortlessly incorporate these into their children’s routines.
This is what the guide offers:
A designated daily schedule that includes simple shloka recitation at the following times: wake up, pre-meals, evening rituals, and bedtime.
Each sloka’s translation is unpacked and articulated in clear English, ensuring that every word is easily understood.
“Significance for Students”: Each explanation helps a modern student hone focus, apply courage, exercise memory, and develop character.
Practical Tips for Parents and Teachers:
The guide offers concrete steps for conducting a shloka class, some spiritual self-care for parents, and meaningful ways to bring children to the temple.
Holistic Character Building: It encompasses the foundational moral ethics (Yamas and Niyamas) and the role of Guru in one’s life. It also offers dozens of simple habits toward living with integrity and peace.
Start with This Simple Step Today
No expertise is needed to start. Sincere actions, no matter how simple, enable genuine change. For instance, the lovely morning shloka, Karāgre Vasate Lakṣmīḥ, can be learned.
While turning our attention to our hands as we wake, we chant:
“On the tip of my hand resides Goddess Lakshmi (prosperity), in the middle resides Goddess Saraswati (knowledge), and at the base resides Lord Govinda (righteous action).”
This gentle two-line prayer turns a child’s gaze towards the remarkable potential contained within their hands: the ability to learn, create, and do truly meaningful deeds. Purpose and positivity infuses the day ahead.
My Humble Request
The transformative impact I have witnessed in my own life and the children I teach is truly remarkable. The change that can be achieved in a small rural township is nothing short of astounding. Just imagine the difference if every parent taught their children and perhaps two or three more children beyond that.
If we all work together, we can use these teachings of Sanatana Dharma and nourish a generation empowered with wisdom, foundational values, and unwavering inner fortitude.
Download Your Free Guide
This initiative is entirely pro bono, crafted with the intention of serving children. I invite you to share this on to other parents, educators, and anyone willing to incorporate this age-old wisdom into their homes.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Kalpana Rajesh
Instagram: @kalpanaa.rajesh
Email: Pellipoolajada@gmail.com