Each piece was introduced in Gujarati by Akash from the Hendon class. The first item was a beautiful keyboard and guitar instrumental performance by Upanishad and Rohan from the St. John's Wood Class. Next up were the girls from St. John's Wood, performing a dance. This had the residents and carers clapping their hands and tapping their feet! An entertaining and insightful play by the Northwood group was next, followed by a fusion bhajan performed by Darpan and BV/CHYK Soul, the youth music group of Chinmaya Mission UK.

The visit ended with a short talk by Brahmacharini Sumatiji, encouraging the elderly residents to keep smiling and constantly remember the Lord. Sumatiji said that rather than offering seva and entertainment, the youth group was there to receive blessings and share happy moments. This inspired young and old alike. Sumatiji sang some beautiful bhajans and it was heartwarming to see the residents joining in with devotion and joy. She then personally interacted with the residents and encouraged the youth and sevaks to do the same. It was a wonderful experience for the youth in particular, to spend time listening to the elders and spreading warmth and cheer.

Community service plays a big part in Junior CHYK classes, as it encourages the youth to live the principles that are learnt. These classes are taken in conjunction with the GCSE Hinduism course at Hendon, Harrow, Northwood and St.Johns Wood. For more information, please contact Madhavi Vadera on 07980 597 810.

Hari Om!