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�દપાવલીની શુભકામના �દપાવલીના �દવસાે �નકટ અાવી ર�ા છે. સમાજમાં નવાે ઉ�ાહ અને અાનંદ �સરી ર�ાે છે. લાંબા કાેરાેના કાળ પછી ફરી માનવ �વન તહેવારાે અને ઉ�વાે મનાવવા અ�સર થયું છે .

ઇ�લે�ની નાથ�ારા તરીકે �સી�� પામેલ અાપણી " �ીનાથધામ હવેલી " અને સમ� ઇ�લે�માં વસતા વૈ�વ સમાજનું સંગઠન અેવું "વૈ�વ સંઘ અાેફ યુ.કે" �દવાલી પવ� ને

ધામધૂમથી મનાવવા ત�ર થયા છે.

સમ� કાેરાેના કાળ દર�ાન, સં�ા �ારા થયેલ સામા�ક, ધા�મ� ક અને સાં�ૃ�તક �વૃ��અાેને અમે �બરદાવીઅે છે .

અા પાવન �દવસાેમાં સં�ા �ારા સાે�વનીયર �કાશીત થવા જઇ ર�ું છે તે બાદલ સાે�વનીયર કમીટીને અા�શવ�દ પાઠવીઅે છે.

શુભમ

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IndexArticles and Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page No .HH Je Je Shree’s Opening Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Index - Articles and Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

From the Editorial Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Rt Hon Priti Patel - MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Rt Hon Bob Blackman - MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

The Worshipful Mayor of Harrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Shri Vallabh Nidhi UK - President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Lohana Community North London - President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

ISKCON Temple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Shree Sorathia Vanik Association - President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Navnat Vanik Association of UK - President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

VSUK Chairman’s Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

VSUK Trustee’s Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

VSUK Trustee’s Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

VSUK Committee Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27

VSUK – An Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30

Glimpses of Pushtimarg Subjects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-38

Diwali Seva in Pushtimarg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41

Shree Mahaprabhuji 84 Bethak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-47

Guide to Making a Will . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-54

Introduction to Family Investment Companies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-56

Down Memory Lane ~ VSUK Journey 2009 to 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58-64

Vrajdham Haveli Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66-70

Shrinathdham Haveli Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71-84

Introduction to Pushtimarg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86-96

Understanding Yoga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98-99

Children’s Wellbeing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100-101

Osteoporosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104-105

Covid Response Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-107

VSUK Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108-109

Inauguration of Shrinathdham Haveli and its Special Significance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110-111

Reflections of VSUK ~ June 2019 to October 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112-121

Shrinathdham Donors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124-131

Jai Shri Krishna Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132-135

Index - Advertisements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

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From The Editorial Desk

Jai Shri Krishna Dear Vaishnavs

It was a moment of immense pleasure and joy when we were appointed to the Editorial team to publish the first Diwali

magazine by Vaishnav Sangh of UK . VSUK as you all know has been a powerful force over the last decade to spread

the message of Pushti Dharm amongst the Vaishnavs of not just UK . But globally also .

VSUK has succeeded in bringing about a behavioural change amongst the Vaishnavs of UK both with seva for Thakorji

and seva for the community . The seva at the Haveli is there for us all to see, but then we witnessed clearly the other seva

during the last 18 months where VSUK not only helped the local hospitals by raising £25,000 for NHS but also helped

the needy far and wide in India and Africa by donating food, clothing, essential medical devices .

VSUK has also been successful in establishing two havelis one in Leicester and the other one in London and visiting

them gives one a sense of satisfaction and guidance to live our life as a true Vaishnav . These Havelis have not only

helped us to follow the path of Pushti but also to lead the path of Pushti in our everyday life . Seva is a key element of

worship in Pushti Marg and we are all very delighted to have received this wonderful opportunity to provide seva as

part of the editorial team .

Whilst we have tried to ensure due care and attention has been taken in the publishing of this first Diwali magazine,

please accept our apologies should there be any errors or oversight .

We wish all the Vaishnavs across the UK and globally a Shub Deepawali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan .

Hitesh RaichuraMehul ShahMinaben PopatMitesh KothariNimesh MajmundarRio FernandesShilu PatelSonal DoshiSubhash LakhaniTushar ShahUmang RajdevVishal Sodha

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November 2021

Diwali 2021 Message to Vaishnav Sangh of UK

I would like to wish all the members of Vaishnav Sangh UK a very happy Diwali. Everyyear, Diwali marks an auspicious time when families and friends come together tocelebrate, and the spiritual significance of these celebrations of hope over despair, lightover darkness and good over evil is something that has been embraced across the country.

I know that the Diwali celebrations last year were very different and much smaller in scalethan usual due to the coronavirus pandemic, but thanks to the continued success of thevaccine roll-out, this year we will once again be able to pray, feast and celebratetogether with family, friends and loved ones.

Homes, Mandirs and Gurdwaras will be filled with happiness and joy as we recall theinspirational story of Rama and Sita, the strength of their unity and friendship and thedefeat of Ravana. We also honour Lakshmi, celebrate the goddess Kali, and commemorateLord Krishna’s victory

During Diwali, we reach out to those less fortunate, alone and isolated, and over the pasteighteen months it has been heartening to see our communities make every effort possibleto keep in contact with and to support those in need.

It is also a time for us to reflect on and celebrate the fantastic contributions that the IndianDiaspora continues to make to life here in Britain, and the historic ties between the UK andIndia. British Indians continue to play a leading role in communities across the country,and their contributions grow from strength to strength each year.

In particular, I would like to congratulate VSUK on their recent achievements andcontribution to the local community in Harrow, especially over the past eighteen months,having raised £25,000 for the local NHS Trust. It was also wonderful to see theorganisation find its home for the Shrinathdham National Haveli, Temple of Lord Krishna,in Harrow.

Once again, I would like to wish everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights a happy andpeaceful Diwali, and convey my best wishes to all for the future.

Rt Hon Priti Patel MPSecretary of State for the Home Department & Member of Parliament for Witham

November 2021

Diwali 2021 Message to Vaishnav Sangh of UK

I would like to wish all the members of Vaishnav Sangh UK a very happy Diwali. Everyyear, Diwali marks an auspicious time when families and friends come together tocelebrate, and the spiritual significance of these celebrations of hope over despair, lightover darkness and good over evil is something that has been embraced across the country.

I know that the Diwali celebrations last year were very different and much smaller in scalethan usual due to the coronavirus pandemic, but thanks to the continued success of thevaccine roll-out, this year we will once again be able to pray, feast and celebratetogether with family, friends and loved ones.

Homes, Mandirs and Gurdwaras will be filled with happiness and joy as we recall theinspirational story of Rama and Sita, the strength of their unity and friendship and thedefeat of Ravana. We also honour Lakshmi, celebrate the goddess Kali, and commemorateLord Krishna’s victory

During Diwali, we reach out to those less fortunate, alone and isolated, and over the pasteighteen months it has been heartening to see our communities make every effort possibleto keep in contact with and to support those in need.

It is also a time for us to reflect on and celebrate the fantastic contributions that the IndianDiaspora continues to make to life here in Britain, and the historic ties between the UK andIndia. British Indians continue to play a leading role in communities across the country,and their contributions grow from strength to strength each year.

In particular, I would like to congratulate VSUK on their recent achievements andcontribution to the local community in Harrow, especially over the past eighteen months,having raised £25,000 for the local NHS Trust. It was also wonderful to see theorganisation find its home for the Shrinathdham National Haveli, Temple of Lord Krishna,in Harrow.

Once again, I would like to wish everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights a happy andpeaceful Diwali, and convey my best wishes to all for the future.

Rt Hon Priti Patel MPSecretary of State for the Home Department & Member of Parliament for Witham

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Bob Blackman MPMember of Parliament for Harrow East

House of Commons, London SW1A 0AATel: 020 7219 7082

Shubh Deepawali,

As Charman of the APPG for British Hindus, I would like to wish you all a very happy, prosperous and above all else healthy New Year. I hope that the illuminating Diwali lights surround you and your loved ones with happiness and positivity.

Like last year, Diwali will be very different. It will be much more difficult because of COVID-19 and whilst restrictions have been eased, we must of course still operate on the side of caution. I have had the honour of visiting Shrinathdham Haveli in Harrow on a number ofoccasions, and I have always been amazed by the kindness of its members who have always made me fell so welcome. I hope to visit once again in the very near future. I was pdelightedin 2019 when VSUK attained its long awaited dream of finding a suitable London site for a National Haveli.

During the pandemic, VSUK made an invaluable contribution to the local community in Harrow, including the contribution of £25,000 to the local NHS Trust, and they continue to be regularly in touch with local groups in terms of health and well-being. In addition to the haveli, VSUK also manages a community centre, with activities like Yoga, children’s classes, adult classes, music classes which I hope to be able to visit in the near future.

I hope that Diwali passes off peacefully for you all and that the Hindu year is everything that you could wish for in your and your families lives.

Shubh Deepawali

Bob Blackman MPHarrow East

Constituency Office:

209, Headstone Lane, Harrow, Middlesex HA2 6ND 020-8421-3323

https://www .bobblackman .org .ukwww .facebook .com/bobblackmanofficialtwitter .com/BobBlackman

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A message fromThe Worshipful Mayor of Harrow

Councillor Ghazanfar Ali

I would like to wish you all Shubh Deepawali and a very happy, prosperous and healthy New Year. I hope Diwali lights will bring happiness in the life of Trustees and devotees of the Temple. I am delighted that VSUK, under the guidance and blessings from JJ Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshree, has attained its long-awaited dream of finding a suitable London site for a National Haveli and even better that you found it in Harrow, which is one of the most diverse of boroughs. During the pandemic, VSUK made an invaluable contribution to the local community in Harrow, including an extremely generous donation to the local NHS Trust, and they continue to be regularly in touch with local groups in terms of health and well-being. In addition to the Haveli, VSUK also manages a Community Centre, with activities like Yoga, children’s classes, adult classes, and music classes. VSUK is a great asset to Harrow residents, and I wish you all the very best for the fantastic work that you are carrying out in our community!

Wishing you all the very best for the future!

Mayor

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Lord GreenhalghMinister of State for Building Safety,Fire and Communities

Ministry of Housing, Communitiesand Local GovernmentFry Building2 MarshamStreet LondonSW1P 4DF

Tel: 0303 444 3672Email:stephen.greenhalgh@communities.gov.ukwww.gov.uk/mhclg

Shrinathdham Haveli & Community Centre2a Rosslyn CrescentHarrowHA1 2SU

Message to Vaishnav Sangh of UK for Diwali 2021

I am delighted to send my very best wishes to everyone at Vaishnav Sanghof UK for its inaugural Diwali magazine.

The Hindu community makes a vital contribution to life here in the UnitedKingdom, and this has been demonstrated over many years, but even more soover the past eighteen months during the pandemic. As Faith Minister, I haveheard of many great examples of Hindus helping their community – not just spiritually, but practically. Whether that is by providing support for people’s mental health, holding services online, or delivering food to those in need, theHindu community has risen to the difficult challenges that it has faced.

Diwali is not just a date in the calendar, it is a celebration of a way of life – a vibrantdisplay of respect for the beliefs and culture of the Hindu community. Diwali giveseveryone the opportunity to reflect on life, to teach respect and honour, and toreflect on the events of the past in order to change for the future.

I do hope that you all have a wonderful Diwali, and that you stay safe.

Yours sincerely,

LORD GREENHALGH

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WISHING YOU A HAPPY DIWALI &Best wishes for the NEW YEAR

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PRESIDENT Mr Dinesh Shonchhatra

1 Bentley Way Stanmore HA7 3RR

Mob: 07956 810 647

Email: dinesh@majorestate.com

SECRETARY Mr Ronak Paw 10 Alwyn Close

Elstree, Borehamwood, WD6 3LF

Mob: 07803 589 429

Email: ronakpaw@btinternet.com

Dinesh Shonchhatra LCNL President 2021-2023

Jai Shree Krishna,

I would like to wish everyone Nutan Varsh Abhinandan and a happy, fun-filled, joy-filled, prosperous and healthy New year. I pray to Shree Nathji that the Diwali lights bring

happiness to all the devotees of the Haveli.

Diwali is a symbol of hope for humankind. May it bring universal compassion, inner joy of peace, love and the awareness of unity to all. I pray that the goodness of this festive season

dwells within us all and stays throughout the Hindu year 2078.

Let us reflect, remember and keep in our prayers those who have sadly departed and those who are suffering the effects from the dark cloud of Covid-19. I am amazed to see how

different people are coping with significant challenges placed upon them. The constant source of strength is derived from how humanity has prevailed despite such uncertain times. We have

grown together in support of one another with a true Hindu spirit and this will be further reinforced as we continue to deal and live with this pandemic.

Since the Haveli opened in Harrow under the guidance and blessings of JJ Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahoday Shri, VSUK have made an outstanding contribution to the local

groups and they continue to regularly support the community in terms of health, well-being and other activities such as regular Satsang, Yoga classes, Children’s classes.

My congratulations to you for this wonderful publication. I send my heartfelt good wishes to VSUK for all the very best to continue with the amazing work that you carry out at the Haveli

for the benefit the community.

I feel proud that this Haveli is in Harrow and I look forward to visiting the Haveli for Thakorji’s darshan, blessings and meeting the devotees.

May krupa and blessings of Shree Thakorji be with each and every one of you.

Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to everyone. Stay safe and well.

Jai Shree Krishna from all at LCNL

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Relax,Enjoy &

Socialise

Sunny, Meera,Sanvika & Ruhani

Ruparelia

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6 October 2021

Dear Devotees

May this festival of lights illuminate each one of us with positivity, hope, happiness, and rejuvenated spiritual aspirations. As we light ‘diyas’ at our homes, let us allow their light to dispel the darkness of negativity, fear, frustration and materialism that resides within us. Let us allow the light of the lamps to illuminate our faith in Sri Sri Sita and Rama, the glorious Supreme Personalities. Rest in the knowledge that we are spiritual beings. Let the radiance of the Supreme Personalities light up our life and the lives of those around us.

‘Deep-avali’ means rows and rows of light. The goal of our culture is to control our lower passions – to overcome our dark material propensities toward lust, greed, anger and envy – and to come to the light of goodness, characterized by knowledge, satisfaction, sense control, and peace. Let good qualities and excellent behaviour reign supreme and take precedence in every thought we have and act we do. As Sri Ramachandra was victorious over evil, so let us also be. By the grace of the Supreme Personality of Godhead and by our sincere and properly guided endeavours, let us advance steadily in disentangling ourselves from material ambition and in becoming spiritually ambitious. Let us acquire a taste for genuine spiritual life.

The lights of Diwali stand for divine knowledge, knowledge from great saintly personalities and authentic scriptures. As we light our diyas, let us also become enlightened and always seek transcendental understanding. It is this understanding – transcendental understanding – that will solace, shelter, and eventually carry us to our Lords, Sri Sri Sita Rama, Laksmana and Hanuman.

Yours in the service of Sri Krishna,

Visakha Dasi Temple President

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Jai Shree Krishna to All the Members of UK & VSUK It is Privileged to be Vaishnav & most importantly I am proud of VSUK Myself being a president of Shree Sorathia Vanik Association, I am always been invited as a Hindu Vaishnav by VSUK.

VSUK is a Pride Hindu Vaishnav Organisation, doing lots of religious events, from morning to evening the activities, Darshan, all runs so smoothly.

VSUK is regularly in touch with NHS, have donated 25,000, that is a wonderful cause My Best Wishes to VSUK to climb at the height of Everest Keep doing your good workWishing All A Very Happy Prosperous Diwali & have a fabulous 2022

Stay Well Stay Safe

Sudha Mandaviya (President)Shree Sorathia Vanik Association

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Dear Trustees, Volunteers and Friends of the Vaishnav Sangh UK,

Namaste and Jai Shree Krishna.

On behalf of the Navnat Vanik Association of the UK, my heartiest congratulations on your growing success. Since the inauguration of the busily Shrinathdham Haveli and Community Centre in Harrow in 2019, you have been organising educational, religious and spiritual activities which serve a large Hindu community, including some of our members. Your lofty mission and your dedication to seva is truly inspiring.

With the blessing of your Spiritual Head Vaishnavacharya Shri DwarkeshlaljiMahodayshri, VSUK has achieved much. The pandemic and its restrictions have been a challenge for all communities, yet you have responded by doubling the efforts to support your community, the local NHS Trust and others most in need. Your daily aarti and satsang, as well as the weekly yoga, all delivered virtually throughout the lockdowns, must have been a source of great comfort in these difficult times. As many have discovered, the Bhagavad Gita also provides valuable insights to build psychological resilience against the mental health impact of the pandemic.

VSUK has achieved much, yet there is more still to do. We need to care for the growing number of elders in our communities, to guide the next generation and to help the needy. Navnat Vanik Association joins VSUK in working to tackle these challenges. In doing so, we have much to learn from each other.

In admiration of all your laudable endeavours and with best wishes for Diwali and the New Year.

Kind regards,

Dilip MithaniT: 07956 392373E: president@navnat.comPresident - Navnat Vanik Association (UK)Navnat Centre, Printing House Lane, Hayes, UB3 1AR

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It was 6th September 2009 when Je Je Shree conducted the Deep Pragatya ceremony for the inauguration of Vaishnav Sangh of UK. That was just over 12 years ago, but so much has been achieved within our short history, that it seems like VSUK has been there for many more years!

If I was to walk down memory lane, there is so much to recollect – from the commencement of men’s Satsangs to the organising of the most auspicious Mahotsavs and Manoraths annually and leading to the inauguration of not just one but two Havelis - Vrajdham Haveli in Leicester in 2011 and Shrinathdham Haveli in London in 2019.

These annual Mahotsavs continued until 2019, the last two that come to mind most vividly being 84 Kos Vraj Yatra Mahotsav in August 2018 and 108 Shreemad Bhagwat Saptah in June 2019 and then the whole world changed in 2020 when the pandemic descended on earth. Even during this extremely difficult period, VSUK has continued serving the community by organising some exceptional Zoom Manoraths, examples being Sikshapatra and Bhagwat Saptah virtual Mahotsavs as well as exclusive Manorath Darshans of Shree Thakorji at the Haveli. The participation in these Manoraths has been exceptionally high, both by UK and worldwide Vaishnavs. These Manoraths are covered in further detail in the Photos gallery.

It has truly been Thakorji’s krupa and Je Je Shree’s Ashirwad that I’ve had this opportunity to be one of the founder trustees and to be part of this enlightening journey. I take this opportunity to thank all the Donors who have been so generous from our inception in 2009. The trust placed on the Board has been truly humbling for us. I would also like to thank our team of Committee members and Volunteers who as Je JeShree refers to as being the two arms of VSUK, and whose total commitment and dedication has been a major factor in us being able to host such memorable and blissful Mahotsavs and Manoraths over the years.

It gives us immense pleasure to present this first Diwali Magazine published by VSUK, but certainly not the last one! Diwali marks an auspicious time of togetherness, love, joy, festive spirit and fireworks! I would like to wish you all a very happy, prosperous, blissful and above all else healthy New Year. I hope that the illuminating Diwali lights surround you and your loved ones with happiness and positivity and that you all remain blessed by Shree Thakorji.

Happy Diwali and Jai Shree Krishna

Subhash Lakhani

Chairman, Board of Trustees

T: 07748 324 092E:subhash@shrinathdham.org.uk

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Jai Shree Krishna

It gives me great pleasure to wish everyone a very Happy Diwali and a prosperous New Year. May this auspicious occasion of Festival of Lights remove all darkness and rekindle and illuminate the flame of positivity within us all.

We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have our Je Je Shree as our Guru, our Patron, our leader, as none of what I share would have been possible without his guidance, dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm. It has been a dream come true for all of us in the UK.

Shrinathdham Haveli Activities: We now have the opportunity and the facility for Baal Pushti classes, Kishore Pushti classes, Youth classes, Kirtan classes and regular Satsangs.

Manoraths are performed according to seasons in Pushtimarg, at Haveli. In Sawan Hindola, Shraad-Sanji, Fagun-Dol Utsav for 40days, Ushnakal Jalvihar, Nav manorath, Ful Mandli, Diwali Deepmalika, Hatri, Annakut, Daan Leela, Maan Leela, Raas Leela, Nand Mahotsav, Chhak Leela, Rath Yatra, Tulsi Vivah, Snan Yatra, Aam Manorath and many more are performed as per Pushtimarg Leela for the pleasure of our Shree Gopalprabhu. Volunteers have immensely enjoyed giving seva and learning about Manoraths, Utsavs and Thakorji Shringar. I am involved with day to day running of Shrinathdham Haveli and I have learned a lot too and it has transformed my life, every day when I do Darshan it gives me great pleasure and I thank Je Je Shree and Shree Gopalprabhu and consider myself very lucky and blessed.

We have come through a year that was filled with many challenges very early on in the pandemic, we cancelled all Haveli Functions as per Government guidelines. Never thought we will ever celebrate our Diwali, Holi, virtually on Zoom. Was different but we still managed to enjoy and celebrate all annual Pushtimarg program on Zoom.

1. We shared Daily Darshan on WhatApp and Facebook which kept Vaishnavs close to Thakorji during the pandemic time. 2. 1st Patotsav was celebrated on Zoom with Je Je Shree involving all Vaishnav around the UK (Vaishnav Samelan) which was

unique and exclusive as Bal Pushti children, Youth and VSUK Sakhis all participated.3. Adhikmaas is considered very auspicious, therefore LIVE TELECAST of Shreemad Bhagwat Satsang Mahotsav by Shree

Dwarkeshlalaji Mahodayshree (Kadi Ahemdabad) was telecasted on Aastha from 23rd to 29 September giving all Vaishnav a wonderful opportunity.

4. 84 Kos Vraj Parikrama Mahotsav was the best and a great success with praise from all who attended and Congratulation messages from Africa, America, India, and Australia to Je Je Shree from all who had watched on Aastha. Vaishnavs who hadn’t been to Jatipura had an opportunity to do Vraj parikrama and Giriraj Dudh Abhishek (offer Milk to Girirajji). During these hard times with the support of Manorathis VSUK re telecasted 84 Kos Vraj Parikrama Mahotsav on Aastha Channel from 20th to 26th which benefitted Vaishnavs round the globe.

5. Aan Daan Abhiyan Under the leadership of Vaishnavacharya Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshree (Kadi Ahemdabad) free tiffin service (food kit) for families affected with Covid 19 delivered at their home with support and contributions from aroundthe globe. In addition

raised funds for NHS during the Pandamic time which helped the hospitals with ECG machines.6. Lot of Vaishnavs requested for another Live Telecast Katha therefore Shikshapatra Raaspan Mahotsav by Je Je Shree was also telecasted LIVE on Aastha on 26th 27th and 28th October and many more.

I extend my personal and genuine appreciation to each one of you for your valuable contribution to Shrinathdham Haveli and VSUK.

Many thanks to Malaji Team, Sajavat Team, Prasad Vitran Team and Admin Team, IT team and to all who have contributed to this Diwali magazine with articles and advertisement and special thanks to our Editorial team and Printing Eye Ltd.

Special thank you to Shiluben Patel and Rio Fernandes for your tireless work and energy and being the backbone of our Haveli.

Happy Diwali and Jai Shree Krishna

Mina Popat -Trustee and Haveli Operational ManagerT: 07958 436 586 | E: mina@shrinathdham.org.uk

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Jay Shree Krishna & Jay Jalaram

It’s been almost 2 years since the Pat Utsav of Shridham Haveli & Community Centre ,Harrow which with Thakorji’s & Je Je’s Ashirwad and generous support of the public and Vaishnav's the Trustees were able to acquire.

I re-collect when Thakorji arrived ,whist speaking to Je Je on other maters was inquisitive and commented 'why did we acquire such a large Haveili 'whilst Thakorjiis small & Slim .Je Je Shree said ‘Tame agar Jata Josa ‘ He was absolutely correct as every time I do Thakorji's Darshan’s, I find he is profound and beautiful and credit for the beautifully Shringar goes to the Mukyaji’s both past and present.

Since last 18 months the Unprecedented effect of Covid has distorted lives of many Family’s, We continue to pray to Thakorji & Jalaram Bapa to give to strength to those family’s who have lost their loved one’s and continue to pray,also,for those who are in hospital , the vulnerable and the Young & Elderly Covid has also thought us how precarious life is and how precious friends and family.

Diwali has been gracefully celebrated with Gaiety by Hindus, old & Young for many Centuries and symbolises Victory do good over evil.

We pray to Thakorji & Jalaram Bapa to shower their profound Blessings and wish all the Vaishnav’s and the community a very Happy Diwali & A Prosperous New year

Take Care & Stay Safe

Pramod & Jasu Thakkar

Pramod Thakkar - Trustee and Acquisition ConsultantT: 07860 922 770

E: pramod@shrinathdham.org.uk

Our prayers and thoughts are with families of those effected by Covid 19 worldwide Stay Safe

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Spiritual Benefactor - H. H. Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshree (Kadi, Ahmedabad)

Subhashbhai LakhaniChairman

Minaben PopatOperations

Pramodbhai Thakkar Property Acquisition

Rio Fernandes Shilu Patel

Board of Trustees

Management committee

Sub Committees(See Next Page)

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Sub Committees

Accounts Admin Baal Pushti

Ekadasi Satsang

First Aid

Vrajdham Haveli Team

Evening Volunteers

Events Co ordination

Community Centre

Tokri Seva

Website & ZoomVolunteers Co ordination

Kishore Pushti Monthly Satsang

Youth Group

Marketing and Promotions

Phool Ghar Prasad Vitran

IT Team

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Vaishnav Sangh of UK

An Introduction Jai Shree Krishna, Vaishnav Sangh of UK (VSUK) was founded by our Patron by HH Pujya Shree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshri of Kadi-Ahmedabad (affectionately known as Je Je Shree) on 6th September 2009. Main Objectives and Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO): The previous charitable trust previously set up in November 2010 has now been replaced by the CIO status charity making it more suitable for the changing nature of our Charity in terms of scalability. Amongst the main objectives of VSUK, is the advancement of Hindu education, religious and spiritual activities. The organization follows Pushti-Marg principles that seeks salvation through the service of Lord Krishna and His Grace, the philosophy that was expounded by its original founder Shree Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji (reincarnation of Lord Krishna), over 550 years ago. Our Guru Je Je Shree is a 17th generation descendant of Shree Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji and is widely respected and revered by members of VSUK and the Vaishnav community worldwide. Inspired by the works and philosophy by Shree Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji, Je Je Shree has for over 25 years been working relentlessly worldwide passing on the knowledge of Pushti-Marg, the Path of Grace, having tremendous impact on a diverse cross-section of society. In order to widen the Pushti-Marg’s (the Path of Grace’s) appeal, Je Je Shree has sought to clear misconceptions about the path being rigid and inflexible that supposedly appeals to mostly elder women. Je Je Shree has instead promoted an educational and awareness program that appeals to the men and youth in society proving its principles and feasibility are very practical if not essential in today’s world. This was done through monthly gatherings known as satsangs whereby knowledge of the path would be taught by a well-researched team of teachers in English. Attempts have been made to confront difficult questions on religious issues and real-life situations and shed light on important issues surrounding spirituality and religious practice. Leicester Haveli project: Having completed the purchase of Vrajdham Haveli in June 2011, VSUK celebrated its grand opening with great pomp and splendor later in November 2011 as devotees in the UK were long last given the freedom to experience Pushti-Marg, in all its exuberance and colour. It was the first opportunity for UK Vaishnavs to practice Shree Vallabhacharya’s faith under direct guidance and inspiration of His direct descendent in a Haveli (Temple) setting. The town of Leicester with a large Hindu population has benefitted tremendously from this centre of excellence, which has become the community’s focal point. Not only has it provided daily darshans (sightings of the Lord) according to time of day and season, but also important Hindu celebrations within the religious calendar are practised throughout the year from Holi in March/April to Diwali in October/November as well as celebratory days within the Pushti-Marg (also known as Utsav Marg), the word “Utsav” meaning celebrations. The Leicester Vrajdham experience demonstrated to us the kind of heights that can be

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reached given the resolve and togetherness of the Gujarati Hindu community that has enabled us to translate into a blissful and enjoyable experience for all involved. VSUK has subsequently inaugurated Shree Giriraji Mandir at Vrajdham premises and more recently, built Giriraji Satsang Bhavan, and the Mandir has become perhaps the most visited Mandir, being the only one where devotees have the opportunity of Dudhbhishek (offering milk to Giriraji). Not only in the UK, but it is the only one in Europe, hence the extremely high auspicious importance held amongst the Pushti-Marg followers. London Haveli Project: Since 2011, the success of the Leicester Haveli experience has provided the impetus for VSUK to search for a suitable site in UK’s capital, London, the core base of the Hindu Gujarati community in the UK. After 7 years searching for suitable premises in the context of a buoyant property market and high demand for good premises, guided by our Guru’s Blessings and Thakorji’s Grace, the dream at last come true. The majestic Jaspar Centre, a sought after listed building in the heart of Harrow was acquired for £4 million in June 2019 and was renamed as Shrinathdham National Haveli and Community Centre. VSUK celebrated its grand opening with thousands of followers attending the Shobha-Yatra (street procession) in great pomp and splendor in September 2019. Two years later, the Haveli has made great in-roads in being recognized as perhaps the most active Religious organization during the most difficult pandemic period. The Committee and Trustees take this opportunity to express gratitude for all support received; together with UK’s Hindu community, support of the Haveli has come from all over the world with notable financial contributions from Kenya and Malawi and India. Given its prime location at the centre of the vibrant and multicultural community, the Shrinathdham National Haveli and Community Centre is in a privileged position to serve all. Nowhere was it better demonstrated than the height of the pandemic in which VSUK raised the substantial amount of £25,000 for the local NHS Trust which was used to buy critical equipment that was the need of the hour. Our loyal, large and strong supporter base of members accumulated since its first inception in 2009 made this attainable. Within the pre-pandemic period, we saw the potential that the Harrow site can attain with its diverse range of educational and recreational classes - religious, cultural and health orientated, as well as serving the needs of all, from young students to pensioners, from families to businesses. We aim to serve all within our situational context using our cultural and tolerant Hindu values. Our committee comprises of successful professional and business people as well as other creative people where resources are pooled together to achieve our aspirations for our community and wider society at large. Other Achievements During the intermediate period between acquiring the Leicester Haveli in 2011 to the acquisition of the London Haveli, we attained popularity within the UK Hindu community, both within our path of Pushti-Marg and wider for grand events held on a large-scale using venues such as Harrow Leisure Centre and Sattavis Patidar Centre. These events have been televised to a national and international audience with great pomp, splendor and colour as well as our Guruji’s message of global peace, harmony, unity and spiritual wisdom with his inspiring and captivating sermons. Up to 2,000 devotees were in attendance at any one time on a given day. 29

The Pandemic In spite of the challenges posed by the lockdown where visitors were not allowed to grace the Haveli and Community Centre, the management and trustees of VSUK were agile and saw the merits of utilizing audio-visual social media tools such as Zoom, Facebook, YouTube, Whattsapp and Astha TV channel. During celebratory and vivid events and with Je Je Shree delivering sermons together with darshans of the Lord, we have typically reached up to 2,500 people attending these online events. In addition to the amount of £25,000 raised for the NHS Trust as mentioned above, VSUK also organize a project to provide food to families in India who are less fortunate and another project to provide voluntary services to elderly and vulnerable members in the Community, from getting food supplies, medicine to having a mental health consultant available at the end of the phone.

Our moto has been - to turn this frightful time into a fruitful time, by turning this plentiful time in hand into quality time for our family members, for serving the community and serving the Lord. Vision for the future The pandemic has presented challenges effecting the charity’s landscape in different ways, as it has done for all similar organisations. There were a few ceremonies announced and planned for 2019/20 in terms of Mahotsavs and Manoraths to be held for the padhramni (inauguration) of other Deities at the Haveli, namely Shree Yamunaji, Shree Mahaprabhuji and Shree Girirajji but the pandemic has delayed these events, and we will review these in the very near future. We aim to translate Our Guru Je Je Shree’s foresight into reality whereby all roads meet at our centres of excellence in Leicester and Harrow and we continue to serve all by serving Thakorji in His Lila, thereby creating unison, harmony and beauty. We want to continue celebrating our path of grace with you with colour and splendor even more so then prior to the pandemic. Wishing All a Happy Diwali and a Healthy, Blissful and Prosperous New Year. Jai Shree Krishna Subhash Kanji Lakhani Chairman, Vaishnav Sangh of UK CIO (Registered Charity No: 1183435) On behalf of the Trustees and Committee members

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Glimpses of some of the significant Pushti-Marg Subjects

under guidance from Je Je Shree- Mayur Patel

Shrinathji

Shrinathji represents Shri Krishna when He was seven years of age and doing his Leela in Gokul . This Swaroop

is not man made but manifested from the Mountain Goverdhan, (also known as Shree Giriraj) some 500 years ago .

The story of SHRINATHAJI’s appearance goes back to the year 1408 . A village by the name of Anyor lies at the

foothills of mountain Goverdhan, near Mathura in North India . There lived a cowherd Sadu Pandey . His cows, while

grazing, use to go the top of Mount Goverdhan . One of the cows would go to a particular spot and would discharge

her milk there . Upon inquiry the raised hand was discovered by vrajvasis at the spot . People started worshipping this

place and offered milk, fruits, etc . This raised hand fulfilled their wishes .

The worshipping lasted for almost 70 years . Then on the day of the appearance of Jagadguru Shri

Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji, in the year 1478, the Mukharvind emerged from this spot by itself . People asked Him

who He was and He said, “I am Lord Krishna of Saraswat Kulp . I have reappeared in this Kaliyug . I will be known by

the names of Shri Devdaman, Shri Indradaman or Shri Nagdamana .”

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Shri Vallabhacharyaji traveled the lengths and breaths of India for almost 18 years of his life to propagate

Hinduism . On one of such tours at Zarkhand, (in the year 1492) Lord Krishna appeared before him and said “I have

appeared as Lord SHRINATHAJI on the Mountain Goverdhan . Go there to meet me . I am eagerly awaiting your

arrival .”

Shri Vallabhacharya immediately left for Goverdhan area . He stayed at the house of Sadu Pandey . He

started climbing mount Goverdhan to meet SHRINATHAJI . Lord Krishna in the form of SHRINATHAJI knew that Shri

Vallabhacharya has arrived there and was coming uphill to meet Him . He started descending and ran to met Shri

Vallabhacharyaji half way on this mountain . They greeted each other very warmly as they hugged, the meeting was

very emotional . The incidence became known as PRATHAM MILAN (First Meeting) .

Six years after this historic meeting, Shri Vallabhacharyaji started constructing a temple for SHRI NATHAJI

on top of the mountain Goverdhan . He appointed Priests (known as Mukhiajis), Singers, Musicians, Cooks, and

Manager etc . to manage the Seva-worshipping- of Lord SHRINATHAJI . The sanctum of Shrinathaji was opened

eight times a day at fixed intervals for Darshans which enabled devotees to see Him for a few moments . The rituals

followed during daily worship were intended to evoke memories of Shri Krishna’s childhood lilas (pastimes) at Vraj .

Aurangzeb was a Muslim King and a cruel ruler in the areas of Vraj, Goverdhan etc . He was an anti Hindu

and started destroying Hindu temples . SHRINATHAJI temple’s safety was at stake and it was decided to relocate the

Swaroop at some safer place . In the year 1669, the swaroop was transferred to a decorative chariot and a journey

started . After traveling for almost two and half years, a new location was selected to sattledown . The place was in

Rajasthan in the village of Sinhad . Actually it was a palace of the King of Udaipur, who was a great disciple of Shri

Vallabhacharyaji .

There was another reason behind the selection of this place . When Shri Gusainji Shri Vithalnathaji)- Shri

Vallabhacharyaji’s son, traveled to Dwarika from Vraj, he would stop at the palace of the King of Udaipur in Sinhad .

Princess Ajabkumvarbai was a great disciple of Shri Gusainji and was always performing seva of Shrinathaji .

Shrinathaji was playing the game of checkers with her everyday, one fine night Ajabkumverbai won the game

and Shriji requested her to ask for a gift . After much request, Ajabkumverbai asked Him to stay there forever asHe

would not have to travel such long distances from Vraj to this place everyday . Ajabkumverbai thought that this must

be uncomfortable for Him . She requested Shrinathaji, instead, to stay there permanently . He promised her that

He would do so in future only . So the migration from Vraj to Sinhad was also to fulfill the promise of Shrinathaji to

Ajabkumverbai . Sinhad is now known as Shri Nathadwara .

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The present temple of SHRINATHAJI at Shri Nathadwara was built in the year 1728 . The swaroop of

SHRINATHAJI is four feet high and is black in color .

Importance of Havelis

The buildings or structures referred to as the HAVELIS are type of Mansions more or less like palaces but are

smaller in size and overall grandeur or monumentality . Nonetheless they do posses a certain unique homely warmth

reflecting the involvement of its habitants as per their very personal taste and requirements . Such Havelis are where

Shriji amongst other swroops reside . In our Pushtimarg, the havelis are considered the house of Shri Nandraiji . Each

Room , lobey or hall plays a very unique role in serving Shriji in the utmost comfort for example nij mandir, the inner

sanctum where Shriji resides, Bhog mandir (the dinning room), Shaiya Mandir (Shrijis bedroom), Rasoi ghar, Kamal

chowk, Govardhan Chowk e .t .c

A Haveli in present days not only stands as the House of Shrinathji but it is also a center for Devotees to offer

their love in the form of seva to Shrinathji . It is a center that allows bhaktas to experience Hisdivine Leela’s with these

eyes . A Haveli is not only a place for Devotion, rather is a center of positivity, place to practice good and noble deeds

anda center of art, which all lead to a better and happy living . Such a lifestyle is promoted by Havelis all across the

world which allows bhaktas to walk in the right path of life and achieve their main goal of serving Shriji .

Daily Darshans

The Gopis of Vraj used to love the Lord so much, they would be at Yashoda’s door at all hours of the day and

night, finding any excuse to see their beloved Nanda Gopal . Mother Yashoda was very protective of her darling child .

Yashodaji was concerned that with all these adoring Gopis, hanging around her house at all hours of the day, her

darling child will never get any time to rest or play properly with His friends . So she decided that all those who wished

to visit her beloved Bala Gopal, could do so after he had finished a snack or a meal and was about to go out again .

Taking His cue from Yashodaji, MahaPrabhu Shri Vallabhacharyaji decided to open the haveli, His own

version of the Nandalay (house / palace of Nanda, foster father of Lord Krshna), at very specific times of the day . The

great Acharya set aside eight times of the day when the doors of the inner sanctum would be left open for the people

to catch a glimpse (“jakhi”) of the Lord . Rest of the time was for Nanda-nandan (Thakorji) to go out and play with His

friends - Gop and Gopis of Vraj .

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1 - Mangala DarshanFirst darshan of the day is considered to be the most auspicious .

Thakorji, having woken up, has His breakfast before greeting His devotees .

* In winter, due to the cold weather, Lalan goes to bed early and so wakes up early - before dawn . In the summer,

as Yashoda’s darling child plays outdoors till late, he wakes up late ! On a festive day though, Lord wakes up early

so as to be ready in good time to recieve all His vaishnavs .

* During Mangala, no toys or flute are placed near the gadiji to distract Natkhat-Nanda-kumar .

* Vatsalya-bhava predominates this darshan .

* Light snacks, often made of milk, are offered as breakfast to the Lord .

Public darshan - Lord is still dressed in His night-dress, usually with the turban from yesterday .

* If it is cold, a shawl or a quilted coat is worn on top . In the summer, he wears only a sarong .

* Arti is offered and bells are rung in muted tones .

2 - Shringar darshanHaving bathed and dressed her little darling, Mother Yashoda allows everyone to adore her baby . Haveli singers sing

outside the closed doors of the inner-sanctum as the Lord is bathed and dressed by the Mukhiyaji and his assistants .

*Nanda-nandan is dressed so as to be absolutely comfortable in any given season (warm clothes in winter, light

clothes in summer) . Jewels and a garland(s) of fresh flowers are used to adorn the Lord . Perfumes (attar), appropriate

for the season, are applied to His clothes and gadi to suffuse the inner sanctum with pleasant scents .

As the Lord is gorgeously adorned, Mukhiyaji offers up a mirror for the Lord to make final adjustments before going

out to play . On festive days, large, full-length mirrors are brought in for a fuller appreciation of the grand shringar!

3 - Gval DarshanHaving had His mid-morning snack, the Lord is about to go out to herd the cows of Nandaji . Flute and garland are

removed for this darshan .

* As this darshan marks the outset of herding duties of Krushna and His friends, milk based snacks and sweets are

offered to make sure little Krushna has plenty of energy for this arduous task . .

* Gend (polo sticks) and balls are laid out and dhoop is offered as the Lord prepares to leave the Nandalay with His

friends .

4 - Rajbhog DarshanAfter His mid-day meal, the Lord is resting in the comfort of Nanadalay . Lord is often most regal and resplendent for

this darshan .

* Main meal of the day of the day is offered with all the pomp and ceremony to the regal “Vraj-Raj-Kumar” .

* Once the meal is concluded, before the doors of the inner sanctum open, temple servants lay out toys, garlands,

snacks and “paan” on a series of tiered steps in front of the throne .

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* Games that are especially laid out after lunch are 1) “chopat”, an ancient board game similar to ludo 2) Shatranj,

forerunner to chess .

Public darshan - Drums and trumpets play at the main gate to announce the most elaborate darshan of the day to the

entire town .

* Fresh garlands and lotuses are offered to the Lord .

* Arti is offered as singers sing various padas and kirtans, musician accompany them by playing jhanja, pakhavaj

sarangi and been .

* Shortly after arti, a carpet is laid between the nij mandir and shaiya mandir in preparation for the afternoon siesta .

* Just before the doors of the inner sanctum are closed, water jugs are changed, garlands are removed and the polo

stick & balls are put away .

5 - Utthanpan DarshanConch is blown to wake Shri Krushna from His afternoon siesta .

* Been instrument is played in the background .

Public darshan - Over-head fan (pulled by hand) moves lazily as the Lord gazes out from His throne with drowsy eyes .

* Jhariji containing water from Shri Yamunaji is changed just before the doors of the inner sanctum are closed .

6 - Bhog Darshan

Having had his afternoon snack, Lord is ready to gather His cows and head back home .

Light snacks are offered .

7 - Sandhya DarshanAs the sun dips over the western horizon, the Lord returns with the herds of Nandaji and the Gopis come to see their

beloved . Having refreshed himself, the Lord is lightly dressed for the evening darshan .

Public darshan - Arti is offered by the Mukhiyaji in the bhava of mother Yashoda to ward off any evil that may have

befalled her darling in the woods of Vraj .

8 - Shayan DarshanHaving had His dinner, the Lord is about to go off to His bed chamber . Lightly dressed, the Lord rests .

* Arti is offered to remove the evil eye and a carpet is rolled out between the inner sanctum and the bedroom .

* Lullabies are sung and been is played to sooth the cares of the day away .

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Havelis Established By Je Je Shree .

Je Je Shree has dedicated His life in serving Pustimarg, Vaishnavas, our Hindu culture, religion as well as

humanity, in the same vein as Jagadguru Shreemad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji . From the age of 17 Jeje Shree has

been on a relentless spiritual mission, tirelessly touring around the globe, with the sole goal of revitalising Pushtimarg

dharma . Lovingly and selflessly Jeje Shree has undertaken a colossal Dharmic duty to awaken, enlighten, and

motivate devotees worldwide . With His eloquent oratorical prowess and vast depth of knowledge Jeje Shree has

gained tremendous popularity and captivated audiences both young and old . His stimulating discourses laden with

precious Gyan have successfully convinced and nurtured Vaishnav diaspora back to their treasured religion . His aim

is to create unity amongst our Hindu society and to preserve the rich heritage of Pustimarg by building Havelis across

the globe .

Acharya Shree Dwarkeshlalji has been instrumental in building Havelis and establishing Vaishnav Sangh

charity organisations in all 5 continents of our globe . These vital centres provide an essential base for local community

education, Satsangs, and much more . One of the first Havelis was established in Nairobi, Kenya called ‘Shree

Vallabhdham Haveli’ . In Melbourne, Australia, Jeje Shree established ‘Shree Nathdwara Haveli’ followed by the

‘Shrinathdham Haveli’ in Maryland, USA . In Jeje Shree’s Home country, India - he has established numerous Havelis .

Leicester’s UK . ‘Vrajdham Haveli’ was founded in 2011, and the Nathdwara of UK, London’s ‘Shrinathdham Haveli’

based in the heart of Harrow, U .K .

There are also upcoming havelis in Perth, Sydney, Adelaide – Australia, Florida - USA (where an International

Academy is currently being setup along with a Haveli called Vrajdham) .

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39

Diwali Seva in Pushti Marg

- Vicky Mehta

In Pushti Marg, Diwali is one of the most anticipated Utsavs and Vaishnavs celebrate the days of Diwali with

great enthusiasm . Vaishnavs look forward to doing various seva such as decorating Thakorji’s Hatadi, lighting Diyas in

front of Thakorji, singing Saras Leela pads to remember Thakorji’s Govardhan Leela to making various Samagri which

would be offered in Annakut . Although Diwali is celebrated by all Hindus, Vaishnavs celebr0ate the festival differently,

keeping Thakorji and his leelas in the centre of all the celebrations . Let’s see how Vaishnavs celebrate Diwali at home

and at the Haveli .

Ramaa Ekadashi

On this day, a gopi named Rama gave the Vadhai of Diwali to Yashodaji, hence this Ekadashi is named as

Ramaa Ekadashi . Today, the Vastra offered to Thakorji are of Black zari . Thakorji wears a Cheera (Paag made of zari)

with a Naagfeni Katra on the Shri Mastak and ornaments made of diamonds are offered .

Bachh Baaras

The leela behind todays Utsav is of when Thakorji was doing Gaucharan in Bachhvan, Brahmaji kidnapped

all the cows and cowherds . The reason behind this was that Brahmaji thought that if Thakorji is the almighty, then why

is he behaving like a common human? To test Thakorji’s abilities, he took away the cows and cowherds to Brahmalok .

After one year, he noticed Thakorji had taken the forms of the cowherds and cows himself . This made Brahmaji realise

that his ego was wrong and returned all the cowherds and cows and asked for Thakorjis forgiveness . Thakorji wears

Yellow Zari Vastra today with Cheera Paag and Chamakni Chandrika offered on Shri Mastak, with ornaments made

of emeralds .

Dhan Teras

On Dhan Teras, Yashodaji wakes up early and washes her materialistic wealth and the ornaments of Thakorji .

For Thakorji and Vrajvasis, their real ‘Dhan,’ wealth, is their cows, so the cows are decorated and worshipped today .

From today, ‘Deepdaan’ or ‘Deep Maalika’ are done, which means lighting diyas and arranging them beautifullyin

front of Thakorji . From today, Thakorji is seated in a Hatadi during Shayan Darshans up to Diwali . Hatadi is another

name for a small shop . Thakorji and his Sakhas sat in a Hatadi so Vrajvasis could buy samagri for Govardhan Pooja .

With the same Bhaav, Thakorji sits in a Hatadi at the Haveli and at the homes of Vaishnavs, with a pair of scales and

various fruits, sweets, spiced, savouries, perfumes etc . Thakorji is offered Green Zari Vastra with heavy shrungar of

rubies up to Thakorjis feet and Paag Chandrika on Shri Mastak .

Roop Chaturdashi

Today, Shri Yashodaji would wake up Thakorji earlier than usual and Abhyang Snaan is done before sunrise .

The same is done in Havelis where Mangala is done before sunrise and Abhyang is done . Thakorji is anointed a Tilak

and Aarti is done when Thakorji is seated on the Snaan Chowki before the Snaan . The vastra offered today are either

of Red or Yellow Zari with a Chandrika on Thakorji’s Shri Mastak .

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Diwali As it is the dark night of Amavasya, Vrajvasis would light up Vraj by putting diyas on all the steps of the Kunds in Vraj and at the feet of Shri Girirajji . With the same Bhaav, diyas would be put in front of Thakorji in the Shayan Darshan, and Deep Maalika pads would be sung . Today Thakorji wakes up early, gets ready and goes to the cowshed to decorate the cows, as the cows would be brought to Nandalay in the evening for Kaan Jagai .

Kaan Jagaai means inviting the cows to come early for Govardhan Pooja the next day . The same ritual takes place in all Havelis as well . The Sajaavat of Hatadi and Chopat would be done in the Shaiyya Mandir as well . In Vraj, there is a tradition of playing Chopat and Pasaa Khel on the night of Diwali . With the same Bhaav, Chopat is put in the Shaiya Mandir to allow Yugal Swaroop to play chopat throughout the night . Today Thakorji is adorned in Safed Zari Vastra and Kulhe Jod on Shri Mastak . Heavy ornaments of Diamonds, Emeralds and Rubies are offered upto Thakorji’s feet .

Govardhan Pooja & Annakut For Vaishnavs this day is of great importance as it celebrates one of the most important Leelas of Prabhu, the Govardhan Leela . Annakut and Govardhan Pooja are done with the bhaav of the leelas done by Thakorji . When Thakorji stopped Indra Yagna and established Govardhan Pooja and offered Annakut to Shri Govardhan, he himself appeared from Shri Govardhan to accept the Annakut with thousands of hands . Thakorji stopped Indra Yagna to stop Vrajvaasis doing Anyashray and to make Vrajvaasis offer their first crop to Shri Govardhan after the monsoons . Thakorji suggested the Vrajvaasis to start Govardhan Pooja, do parikrama of Shri Govardhan and offer Annakut Bhog .

Today, the Vastra and Shrungar are the same as what was offered on Diwali . The only difference in the Shringar is that a Red Gokarna is offered on top of the Kulhe, representing the ears of the cows . Gokarna translates to “Gau” meaning cows and “Karna” meaning ears . After Rajbhog, Thakorji is taken to where the Govardhan Pooja is performed . Shri Govardhan is constructed of Gobar and various plantations . Poojan of Shri Girirajji is done and Kunwara bhog is offered . After Govardhan Pooja, Thakorji is brought back into the Nij Mandir where the Annakut bhog is offered .

In Pushti Marg, Annakut represents a Mahayagna, which is done for Pushti Purushottams happiness and to ask for forgiveness of any mistakes made throughout the year . The Annakut takes place every year on Kartak Sud Ekam but can take place until Maha Sud 4 at Vaishnavs houses or in Havelis . The place where Annakut is offered is cleaned, and Vastra/Patal is put placed in the floor . The order in which the Samagri is offered is Doodhghar, Naagari, Ansakhdi and then Sakhdi, with the Kot (mountain) of Sakhdi is placed in the middle of the Sakhdi Samagri . A line of turmeric is drawn to separate all the types of Samagri . Maximum Samagri is offered according to one’s capacity and the permission of ones Guru .

Bhai Dooj The story behind todays Utsav is that Yamraj visited Shri Yamuanji’s house for lunch on this day . Impressed by Shri Yamunaji, Yamraj asked to Shri Yamunaji to ask for a boon . Shri Yamunaji asked Yamraj that if any of her devotee drinks her water on this day, they would be spared of struggles or suffering at the time of death . Hence, there is huge importance of Yamuna Snaan and Yamuna Paan on this day and there is a ritual of brothers being invited at their sister’s house for lunch on Bhai Dooj .

Today, Thakorji is adorned in Red Zari Vastra with light Shringar made of emeralds . The shrungar of Paag Chandrika is offered today . Before Thakorji is offered Rajbhog, Tilak, Aarti and Raai Loon are done, which are done with the bhaav that Subhadraji is doing Poojan of Thakorji for Bhai Beej . Thakorji is offered Khichdi today .

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0751 661 7877Unit No 5, 537 Wembley High road HA0 2DJ

Wishing you all a Happy Diwali & a Prosperous New Year

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43

Shree Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji - Dr . Lalitbhai Sodha

D . C . - Doctor of Chiropractic

84 Bethak

Shree VallabhacharyaMahaprabhuji took a lot of parishram and walked the length and breadth of India

three times to bestow his mercy (Krupa) onto the jeevatmas to take them back to the lotus feet of Shree Thakorji . Shree

Vallabh visited many places in India, however, where he sat and did Bhagvatparayan, that place is considered to be

a BETHAK .

Scriptures and Vallabhkulvachanamurt says that Shree Vallabhacharyaji is present in these places:

1 . In the Bethakjis .

2 . In the name of Shree Vallabh .

3 . In his Granths .

4 . In his lineage of Vallabh .

5 . In hispadukaji .

6 . In hishashtakshar, i .e . what he personally wrote .

7 . In the chanting beads of Japa Mala .

8 . In the Radai (hearts) of Tadarshivaishnav .

There are 84 such places identified in the scriptures . It is said that if one goes with a very clear mind and heart to

these Bethakjis and perform sewa of Shree Vallabh, one can actually experience the presence of Shree Vallabh in the

Bethakji .

The correct etiquette to observe when going to a Bethak for JariCharansparsh is as follows:

1 . The mindset should be focused on the sewa of Thakorji and Shree Vallabhacharya ji .

2 . Take a shower to cleanse your material body .

3 . Once the material body is cleansed for the male vaishnavs, a clean dhoti bandi, a tilak, kanthiare worn and then

take charanamrut to cleanse your internal body .

For the female vaishnavs, a clean saree, blouse, petticoat, kanthi, tilak and charanamrut . Ladies should avoid

doing sewa during the times of the menstrual cycle .

The mind should be totally focused on the sewa of Shree Vallabh and Shree Thakorjji . One should be constantly

chanting the Maha Mantra, “Shree Krishna SharanamMamah” .

4 . The following items can be offered at the Bethakji’s according to the capacity of the vaishnav and the Bhav . The

Bhav (thought, desire) one should have is that I am going to visit my Shree Vallabh, what offering can I take?

44

• Dhoti, uparna

• Gunji mala

• Two TulsiKanthis

• Misri and dry fruits bhog

• Yatha Shakti bhet at the lotus feet of Shree VallabhacharyaMahaprabhuji

• Gauvmukhi and jaap mala

• Janoi

• Kule, paagh, and other shringhar

• Kanku

• Sugandhi (attar)

• If there are any cows at the Bethak, then Gai sewa

The above is a basic list, and one can increase the items as necessary in Bhog & sewa .

5 . When offering the Bhog to Shree Vallabh, the following should be recited:

“He Krupa Naath, aapnacharanarvind ma charansparshkarvanivinantiswikaar jo .

Mukhartha dosh dur karjo, aapnashreecharanpushti bhakti pradankarjo .”

6 . One should focus their mind totally on sewa and in a high state of mind recite the following:

a) Sarvottamstotra (108 names of Shree Vallabh) (NAAM) .

b) Sfurat Krishna Prern Amrut (aka SaptaShloki) (GOON) .

c) Vallabhashtakam (ROOP) .

d) Time permitting, one should recite the Yamunastakam, Krishnashray etc .

e) Chant at least one round by chanting Shree Krishna sharanammamah on the Jaap Mala .

f) Read the Bethakcharitra from the 84 Bethakpustak .

g) Do satsang with the mukhiaji and ask him to explain the pastimes that took place at the Bethak .

7 . Any lokik conversation should be avoided .

8 . Try and make certain that the mind and body are totally absorbed in the sewa of Shree Vallabh & Shree

Thakorji .

9 . After the completion of the sewa of jariji and charansparsh, when one leaves the bethak for the next one, before

departing, the Mukhiaji should be given some Bhet as well .

Shree VallabhacharyaMahaprabhuji actually visited more than 84 places, however it was at these 84 places

there were specific Bhagvadleelas .

45

People usually visit these Bethakji’s with different thoughts and Bhav and the experiences one has are according to

the capacity and entitlement of the individual vaishnav . One can visit these holy places only with the Grace (Krupa) of

Shree Vallabh and Shree Thakorji and to experience the leela as a Pushti jeev .

Every Pushtijeeva should endeavour to visit these Bethak with the blessings of Shree Vallabh & Shree Thakorji . The list

of the 84 Bethakjis is as follows:

1) SHRIMAD GOKUL GOVINDGHAT, (Gokul), U . P .

2) BADI BAITHAKJI, (Gokul), U .P .

3) SHAYYA MANDIR BAITHAKJI, (Gokul), U .P .

4) BANSIBAT, Vrandavan

5) VISHRAM GHAT, Mathura

6) MADHUVAN, (Dist . Mathura), U .P .

7) KAMODVAN, (Dist . Mathura), U .P .

8) BAHULAVAN, (Dist . Mathura) U .P .

9) SHRI RADHAKRISHNAKUND, U .P .

10) MANSIGANGA, U .P .

11) SHRI CHANDRASAROVAR, (Parasoli), U .P .

12) ANYOR, (SaduPande’s house), U .P .

13) GOVINDKUND, U .P .

14) SUNDERSHILA, (opposite Giriraji), U .P .

15) GIRIRAJI (GUPT BAITHAK), at Jatipura, U .P .

16) KAMVAN (SRI KUND), Bharatpur Dist .

17) GHEWARVAN (near Barsana), U .P .

18) SANKETVAN (at Krishna Kund), Barsana

19) NANDGAM (at Mansarovar), U .P .

20) KOKILAVAN (Jilo Mathura), U .P .

21) BHANDIRVAN (Aprakat), U .P .

22) MAANSAROVAR (Jilo Mathura), U .P .

23) SUKARSHETRA (SORAMJI), U .P .

24) CHITRAKOOT (KantanathParvat), M .P .

25) AYODHYA (GusaiGhat), Ayodhya

26) NAIMISHARANYA

27) SHETH PURUSHOTTAMDAS’ HOUSE, (Kashi, Benaras),

U .P .

28) HANUMAN GHAT, (Kashi, Benaras), U .P .

29) HARIHAR KSHETRA (HAJIPUR), Bihar

30) JANAKPUR (GUPT BAITHAK), Bihar

31) GANGASAGAR

32) CHAMPARANYA, Raipur, Chattisgardh

33) MUL PRAKATYA SHRI CHHATTHIJI BAITHAK, Raipur,

Chattisgardh

34) JAGANNATHPURI, JagganthPuri, Oddisa

35) PANDHARPUR, Maharashtra

36) TAPOVAN, Panchavati Nasik Maharashtra

37) PANNA NRISINHJI (GUPT BAITHAK), Maagalgiri,

Vijaywada

38) SHRI LAKSHMAN BALAJI, Tirupati Andhra Pradesh

39) SHRIRANGJI, Trichinappali, Sri Rangam

40) VISHNUKANCHI, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

41) SETUBANDH RAMESHWAR

42) MALAYACHAL PARVAT (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

43) LOHGADH (GOA)

44) TAMRAPANI NADI BETHAK (GuptBethak)

45) KRISHNA RIVER (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

46) PAMPASAROVAR (GUPT BAITHAKJI), Hospit .

47) PADMANABHJI (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

48) JANARDAN KSHETRA (Barkala)

49) VIDHYANAGARA (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

50) TRILOKBHANJI (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

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51) TOTADRI PARVAT (GUPT BAITHAKJI), (Nagneri)

52) DARVASEN (GUPT BAITHAKJI), Ramanathpuram

(Tamil Nadu)

53) SURAT, TapiNadi (Gujarat)

54) BHARUCH (Gujarat)

55) MORBI (Dist . Jamnagar, Gujarat)

56) NAVANAGAR (NagmatiGhat, Jamnagar, Gujarat)

57) JAMKHAMBHALIYA (Dist . Jamnagar, Gujarat)

58) PINDTARAK (Pindara, Dist . Jamnagar, Gujarat)

59) MULA GOMATA (Gomti Voa, Dwarika, Gujarat)

60) HARIKUND, DWARKA (Banks of River Gomti,

Dwarika, Gujarat)

61) GOPITALAVA (Jilo Jamnagar)

62) SHANKHODDHAR (Beth Dwarika), Gujarat

63) NARAYAN SAROVAR, Lakhput (Kutch)

64) JUNAGHADH, Gujarat

65) PRABHAS KSHETRA (Prabhas Patan, Dist . Junagadh),

Gujarat

66) MADHAVPUR (Dist . Junagadh), Gujarat

67) GUPTPRAYAG (Delvada, Jilo Junagadh, Dwarika)

68) TAGADI, near Ahemdabad, Gujarat

69) NARODA, Ahemdabad, Gujarat

70) GODHARA, Dist . Panch Mahal, Gujarat

71) KHERADU, Dist . Mehsana, Gujarat

72) SIDDHAPUR, Dist . Mehsana, Gujarat

73) AVAMTIKAPURI-UJJAIN, Madhya Pradesh

74) PUSHKAR, Dist . Ajmer, Rahjashtan

75) KURUKSHETRA

76) RAMGHAT-KANAKHAL-HARIDWAR,

Uttaranchal

77) BADRIKASHRAM, Badrinath, Uttaranchal

78) KEDARNATH (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

79) VYASASHRAM, Badrinath, Uttaranchal

80) HIMACHAL PARVAT (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

81) VYAS GANGA (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

82) MANDARACHAL (GUPT BAITHAKJI)

83) ADEL, Allahabad

84) CHARNAT (Dist . Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh)

Shree GoverdhanNathji Ki Jai,

Shree Vallabhadish Ki Jai,

Shyam Sundar Shree Yamunaji Ki Jai,

Shree Gopal lalji Ki Jai,

Shree DwarkeshlalPyaare Ki Jai .

47

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AUTHORISED & REGULATED BY THE SOLICITORS REGULATION AUTHORITY: NO.77087

Wishing you and your family a Happy Diwali &New Year

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Guide To Making A Will- Gandecha & Pau Solicitors

Making a Will is not something you can afford to put off until tomorrow . Your Will is the only way you can ensure that

your money, personal possessions and property (your Estate) are distributed in the way in which you wish .

WHY DO YOU NEED TO MAKE A WILL?If you do not make a Will, matters may become very complicated for your family and friends . According to the Law,

if you have died without making a Will, you have died ‘intestate’ . Your property will be divided according to the

Administration of Estates Act and, if you have no next of kin, everything you own may pass to the Crown .

THE RULES OF INTESTACY

Who can inherit if there is no willWhen a person dies without leaving a valid will, their property (the estate) must be shared out according to certain

rules . These are called the rules of intestacy . A person who dies without leaving a will is called an intestate person .

Only married or civil partners and some other close relatives can inherit under the rules of intestacy . If someone makes

a will but it is not legally valid, the rules of intestacy decide how the estate will be shared out, not the wishes expressed

in the will .

MARRIED PARTNERS AND CIVIL PARTNERSMarried partners or civil partners inherit under the rules of intestacy only if they are actually married or in a civil

partnership at the time of death . So if you are divorced or if your civil partnership has been legally ended, you can’t

inherit under the rules of intestacy . But partners who separated informally can still inherit

under the rules of intestacy .

If there are surviving children, grandchildren or great grandchildren of the person who died and the estate is valued at

more than £270,000, the partner will inherit:

all the personal property and belongings of the person who has died, and

the first £270,000 of the estate, and

half of the remaining estate .

If there are no surviving children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren, the partner will inherit:

all the personal property and belongings of the person who has died and

the whole of the estate with interest from the date of death .

50

JOINTLY-OWNED PROPERTY

Couples may jointly own their home . There are two different ways of jointly owning a home . These are beneficial

joint tenancies and tenancies in common . If the partners were beneficial joint tenants at the time of the death,

when the first partner dies, the surviving partner will automatically inherit the other partner’s share of the property .

However, if the partners are tenants in common, the surviving partner does not automatically inherit the other

person’s share . Couples may also have joint bank or building society accounts . If one dies, the other partner will

automatically inherit the whole of the money . Property and money that the surviving partner inherits does not count

as part of the estate of the person who has died when it is being valued for the intestacy rules .

Close relatives

Children

Children of the intestate person will inherit if there is no surviving married or civil partner . If there is a surviving

partner, they will inherit only if the estate is worth more than a certain amount .

Children - if there is no surviving married or civil partner

If there is no surviving partner, the children of a person who has died without leaving a will inherit the whole estate .

This applies however much the estate is worth . If there are two or more children, the estate will be divided equally

between them .

If there are no surviving relatives

If there are no surviving relatives who can inherit under the rules of intestacy, the estate passes to the Crown . This is

known as bona vacantia . The Treasury Solicitor is then responsible for dealing with the estate . The Crown can make

grants from the estate but does not have to agree to them . So if there is no surviving spouse:

The whole estate goes to the following relatives in the following order of precedence (in all cases in equal shares

if more than one person): Children or their children if your children are dead, Parents, Brothers and sisters or their

children, Half brothers and sisters or their children, Grandparents, Uncles and aunts, Parents’ half brothers and

sisters, The Crown .

51

Others think I don’t have enough money to make my estate liable for inheritance tax .

Only the first £325,000 .00 PER PERSON (as at 6th April 2021) of your estate is free from tax under

current legislation . If you live in the South of England it is likely that the value of your house alone

will use up a lot of this . Then there are your savings, investments, death in service benefits, life

assurance policies, jewellery, car etc . It can all add up to much more than you think!

Gifts between spouses are exempt but there are times when the Husband and Wife’s inheritance Tax Exemption can

trigger a Large Tax Bill-Therefore proper planning is necessary as Estates have increased in values

Many future problems and tax can be saved by proper planning . The first step is to make a Will and keep it up to date .

Trusts are a valuable tool for protecting wealth both from the taxman and from irresponsible relatives . Lifetime gifts not

only help the recipient, but can also reduce your eventual tax bill .

It is best to consult a solicitor before making a Will . He or she can ensure that your wishes have been recorded clearly

and correctly . Although this entails some cost, it is money well spent .

Your solicitor or Financial Adviser of Tax expert can advise on tax concessions, inheritance tax, and how to make

a bequest to a charity . All gifts to charity are wholly exempt from inheritance tax . The value of your Estate for tax

assessment is reduced by the value of your gift, so that the tax can be reduced or eliminated .

SO WHO CAN MAKE A WILL• The person making the Will, the testator, must be over 18 .

• That person must understand the terms of the Will . If he or she does not understand English,

someone has to translate the Will for him or her before they can sign it .

• That person must be of sound mind, memory and understanding . The soundness of mind must exist when instructions

for the Will are given and also when the Will is signed . If that person is mentally ill he or she can still make a Will so

long as there is lucidity at the appropriate times . However, in such a case it would be advisable to have a doctor who

is familiar with the condition as one of the witnesses . If the Will should later be called into question on the basis that

the testator might not have been able to understand the Will, the doctor can be called upon to confirm that he or she

was lucid (i .e . of sound mind and able to understand what they were doing) at the time . Alternatively, a certificate of

testamentary capacity can be obtained from an appropriate doctor . If a person makes a Will whilst not of sound mind,

that Will is invalid .

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Remember that the ability to make a Will can also be removed by weakness of mind due to old age, or addiction to

alcohol or drugs . Where there is, or could be, doubt as to the capacity of the Testator a doctor should be called upon

to advise and to witness the Will if the testator is of sound mind .

Before you visit your Solicitor, think about what you own and who you would like to benefit from your Will . As well as

your husband or wife, you may wish to provide for your children, or grandchildren, or other

family members or friends .

Once your specific bequests have been made, and your liabilities have been paid, whatever is left over is called the

residue . When you have remembered your family and friends, you may wish to leave all, or part of this to a charity .

Next, you should choose:

An ExecutorThe person who will ensure that your wishes are carried out in your Will . It is usual to appoint two Executors and you

could choose your husband or wife, one of your children, or a close friend . You can also choose your solicitor or bank

manager, for which there will be a charge . If you choose a professional Executor, find out first what the cost is likely

to be . However, check with them that they would be prepared to act as such . Persons appointed executor can refuse

to accept the office and this could cause problems . The administration of an estate can also be complex and time

consuming .

Your Executors may be beneficiaries from your Estate and they can claim for expenses incurred in the administration

of your Will . If there is no one able or available to act as your Executor .

The Executors must collect in all assets, pay all liabilities and then distribute your estate as per your wishes . This must

be done within a reasonable time . If after the end of one year the Executor is still not in a position to pay legacies, the

legacies will bear interest until they can be paid (unless there is any contrary provision in the Will) .

GuardiansIf you have children under18 years of age you should consider appointing someone to be their guardian particularly

if you have any family members you would prefer to look after your children . Obviously it is important that you consult

any proposed guardian before appointing them .

LegaciesThese are usually paid free of Inheritance Tax and the residue of your estate (what is left after payment of debts

and legacies) bears all the tax . You can specify that legacies should bear their own tax if you wish, although this

complicates the preparation of estate accounts .

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Make sure that the Will contains full and correct descriptions of the beneficiaries so there can be no doubt as

to who should benefit . Also make sure that the details of what each is to inherit are clear . If you are going to leave a

specific item to someone, rather than an amount of cash, consider what should happen if you no longer possess the

item at the time of your death . You may wish the beneficiary to receive something else instead, but if the Will does not

specify this they will get nothing . Identify the item clearly .

Rules for signing Wills• You must have two independent witnesses

• The witnesses must not be beneficiaries under the Will

• The witnesses should not be relatives

• You and the Witnesses must all be present at the signing of the Will

• You must sign the Will first, in the presence of the witnesses, who must see you sign

• The witnesses must sign in turn, and add their names, addresses and occupations

• You must see each witness sign

• Each witness must see the other witness sign

• If you are unable to sign your name, any mark made by you upon the Will can suffice as your signature

Usually members of the solicitor’s staff will be happy to witness your Will for you .

Once the Will is made NEVER attach anything to the Will if it is not intended to be part of the Will . When the Will is

admitted to Probate the Registrars look for signs of documents that have become detached . If there is a mark from a

paperclip or staple on the Will this will be enquired into in great detail to eliminate the possibility of foul play .

It is very important that you review your Will periodically as circumstances may change and you will have to amend

your Will accordingly . There may be occasions when you need to change your Will - you may want to add someone

to your Will; Please note that if you marry after making a Will, that Will is automatically revoked (i .e . you would have

no Will unless the original Will is drawn up to cover the marriage) . The original document should never be altered . If

there is a minor change, your solicitor can add a Codicil to it .

This is an extra instruction which can be added at any time and alters your Will in the way that you want .

If there are substantial changes, you should make a new Will, revoking the former one . For example, it may now be

appropriate for your adult children to be appointed as Executors . You must always destroy the old Will .

Please note that this leaflet is merely for guidance purposes only, you should consult a Solicitor when

making a Will as each circumstance is different and proper legal advice will help prevent unnecessary

problems . Once you have chosen a Solicitor, please call them to arrange an appointment . No responsibility

is accepted by the Writer or the Firm .

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An introduction to Family Investment Companies

- AGK Partners Family Investment Companies (FIC)s are now increasingly being used as an alternative to traditional trust structures as a mechanism for succession and wealth planning . FIC’s offer a tax efficient way of transferring assets out of an individual’s estate for inheritance tax (IHT) purposes whilst retaining control over the transferred assets . FICs can be structured in a variety of ways to suit the requirements and circumstances of the individual family .A typical structure could be as follows:

- The parents will usually be the directors of the FIC .

- The parents subscribe for ordinary shares which carry the right to appoint directors and vote at general meetings, which gives them requisite control over the FIC’s assets, but often will have no right or minimal rights to capital, which limits the parent’s capital value exposed to IHT .

- A second separate class of shares (‘B’ shares) would eitherbe issued to the parents and gifted to the children, (or other close relatives such as grandchildren), or issued directly to the children or close relatives .

- The ‘B’ shares do not have voting rights but would be subject to dividend and capital rights subject to the parent’s approval via the control mechanism vested in the ordinary shares .

- In many cases the parents would inject cash into the company via a shareholder-loanbut may also wish to transfer assets to the FIC, for example, property with the relevant value being credited to their loan account, (which could give rise to capital gains tax based on the asset’s market value and in respect of property transfers also potentially Stamp Duty Land Tax) .

- The parent’s initial transfer of cash and other assets to the FIC would not normally give rise to any IHT chargeable transfer as there is no reduction in the value of their estate, (in contrast to a straightforward transfer of assets to a trust which could give rise to a 20% IHT liability before taking account of the IHT nil rate band any available IHT reliefs) .

- The FIC would make suitable investments – such as property, shares, unit trusts and so on with the income/ profits being used to repay the shareholder/director loan accounts, reinvested or used to pay appropriate dividends to the children, (or other close relatives) .

- Importantly, the company’s capital will grow via the ‘B’ shares, outside of the parent’s estate thus benefitting children, (or other close relatives) .

The advantages of using a FIC are as follows:

- Takes advantage of low levels of tax currently applicable to companies, (the current rate ofcorporation tax is 19% but is set to increase to 25% for trading companies with profits in excess of £250,000 from April 2023) .

- FICs are particularly tax efficient if profits are retained in the structure for reinvestment .

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- A company structure is more straightforward than using a trust structure .

- A vehicle that might provide a degree of family and matrimonial asset protection .

- The possibility of paying tax free dividends to shareholders over the age of 18 subject to their wider tax pro

files

- Reducing the parent’s taxable estate for IHT purposes, whilst retaining control over the assets .

Points to keep in mind include the following:

- Every FIC is bespoke and specific to the family circumstances, plans and assets involved .

- FICs should form part of a long-term planning strategy and need to be flexible enough to deal with changes

in circumstances .

- It is important to consider from the outset what the funds are intended for and when .

- Professional advice should be sought at the outset to ensure that the FIC’s legal documentation is drafted in a

way to ensure all planning objectives are met .

- One should always bear in mind that all estate planning is subject to change through HMRC practice and

the introduction of new legislation .

If you are considering setting up a FICthen AGK Partners can provide bespoke and confidential support .

The information contained in this article is intended as a guide only to highlight issues of interest based on current tax

law . It is not meant to be a substitute for full professional advice and specialist assistance should always be obtained

in respect of any particular circumstances . Accordingly, the article’s author, AGK Partnership Ltd and the publisher

cannot accept any responsibility or liability for any losses incurred by any person acting or refraining from acting as a

result of any material in this article

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DOWN MEMORY LANE ~ VSUK JOURNEY 2009 TO 20192009 INAUGURATION OF VSUK

2010 PANCH TATVA MANORATH

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2010 HAVELI OPENING LAUNCH EVENT

2011 VRAJDHAM HAVELI OPENING

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2011 BHAGAVAT SAPTAH

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2013 FRUIT MANORATH

2014 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

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2015 GUSAIJI FESTIVAL

2018 VRAJ YATRA MANORATH

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2019 BHAGWAT SAPTAH MANORATH

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Vrajdham Haveli, Leicester

In June 2011, Vaishnav Sangh of UK completed the purchase of the premises of Haveli in June 2011, at 58 Loughborough Road, Leicester LE4 4LD. A works project to carry out structural changes and refurbishments commenced in August 2011 and was completed in a record 9 weeks period, by October 2011.

The Haveli had its grand opening on 5th & 6th November 2011, and it became the first “Shudh Pushti-Margiya Haveli” in the UK, named “Vrajdham, ShriNathji ni Haveli”. The Haveli has provided the “Pushti-Marg” followers the opportunity to continue this long-established faith.

The town of Leicester has a very large Hindu population, who have benefited tremendously from this Haveli. This has now become the community’s focal point; open for darshan every day, throughout the year.

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The hours of worship are based on the established routine of Havelis and Vrajdham Haveli has been hosting the Manoraths as per Pushti calendar, as well as significant cultural and religious events. Some of these are:

● March – Holi, celebrating the festival of colour. ● April – Ramnavmi, marking the birth of Lord Rama. ● April – Shree Mahaprabhuji Pragatya, marking the birth of the founder of Pushti-

Margiya ● August – Krishna Janmastami marking the birth of Lord Krishna. ● October – Navratri a nine-day harvest folk dance festival. ● October – Diwali, a two-day festival of light

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For the Leicester Haveli project, VSUK managed to raise over £550,000, which was used for the purchase of the Haveli and also for the extensive structural and refurbishment works carried out. Membership has been increasing all the time, with Vaishnavs from throughout the UK coming to Vrajdham Haveli for Darshan and Utsavs.

Along with Shriji’s Svaroops, Vrajdham Haveli also has the beautiful Svaroops of Shree Yamunaji, Shree Mahaprabhuji, Shree Gusainji and Shree Girirajji. In fact, Vrajdham Haveli is the only place where Vaishnavs are able to perform Dudh Abhishekh of Shree Girirajji in Europe. Vaishnavs gather from all over the continent to have Darshan of Shree Girirajji. The haveli has also recently inaugurated Shree Giriraji Satsang Bhavan, which allows Vaishnavs to hold large satsangs and is also available to book for celebrations such as Birthdays in the presence of Shriji.

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This year, Vrajdham Haveli will be celebrating 10 years since it’s grand Patotsav opening - we take this opportunity to wish you all a happy Diwali and at the same time invite you all to the 10th Patotsav Mahotsav of Vrajdham Haveli, or as Je Je Shree lovingly calls it - UK’s Gokul.

Address: 58 Loughborough Rd, Leicester LE4 5LD Phone: 0116 224 5308

E: info@vrajdham.org.uk W: www.vrajdham.org.uk

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£1 a day RAJBHOG SEVA SCHEME for Shrinathdham Haveli

We are pleased to introduce this scheme, which was launched in November 2019 by Je Je Shree during the Annakut and Pragatiya Mahotsav celebrations.

By making a seva of £1 a day, Thakorji’s Rajbhog will be offered on a chosen day of each month from the Manorathi family and you will be then be able to collect the Rajbhog Prasad on the day.

Manorathi will also have the satisfaction of knowing that their £30 per month will be utilised towards the beloved Shrinathdham Haveli.You will receive a phone call from us each month to remind you to collect your Rajbhog Prasad.

You can collect our standing order form from the Haveli reception and you can download it from our website –www.shrinathdham.org.uk

Please also confirm in the standing order form, which date of the month you would like your Rajbhog. eg. 1st of every month. Your Rajbhog Prasad will be available on the same date each month unless pre- arranged with the Haveli team.

Our target during Je Je Shree’s visit is to have 104 Manorathis confirmed (two for each week of the year) so please do join in this Seva and become part of this scheme, which is so dear to Je Je Shree.

For further information contact :Minaben Popat: 07958 436 586

Subhashbhai Lakhani: 07748 324 092Shiluben Patel: 07828 208 181

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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES CURRENTLY AVAILABLE

Shree Giriraj BhavanEducation CentreCultural CentreMukhya DwarMukhyaji AawasBhandar Ghar (Food Storage Warehouse)Vaishnav Hall

There will be only one Sponsor for each category above

Haveli Nirman SevaGolden Brick SchemeSilver Brick SchemeMala No Manko

£151,000£125,000 £125,000£ 51,000£ 35,000£ 21,000TBA

THESE ARE THE ONGOING SCHEMES OPPORTUNITIES

£10,000£ 5,000 £ 2,500£ 1,000

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|| Badhai Shree Gopalprabhu Vijayete Badhai ||

Aarti Manorathi £21Palna £21Mangal Bhog £21Ardho (Half) Rajbhog £51Aakho (Full) Rajbhog £75Aakha Diwas na Manorathi £101Kaymi Rajbhog Scheme(£1 a day rajbhog seva scheme)

Bank Account DetailsVaishnav Sangh UK (Lloyds Bank)

Acc. No.: 63797160Sort Code: 30-93-92

Please put your name as reference for identifying purpose.

SHRINATHDHAM HAVELI

Darshan Timings

Rajbhog Darshan: 12pm to 1pm Aarti: 12:15pmSandhiya Darshan: 6pm to 7pm Aarti: 6:15pm

Registered Charity No 1183435

www.shrinathdham.org.uk https://www.facebook.com/vaishnavsanghofuk/

2a Rosslyn Crescent, Harrow, HA1 2SU

Minaben Popat Devyaniben Vora Shiluben Patel

07958 436 586 07896 680 920 07828 208 181For further information,

please contact

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The Shrinathdham National Haveli & Community Centre is located in the centre ofHarrow and is available for private hire for awide range of functions, activities and groupsizes. Our helpful team are here to assist withyour booking and to provide a bespokepackage best suited to your needs. Whetheryou’re organising a meeting, seminar, healthclass, Katha, Satsang, Loti utsav, Bhajan,birthday party or any weddingfunction, our beautiful building canaccommodate your requirements. We halls ofvarious sizes and kitchen/dining facilitiesavailable for hire.

Benefits:• Range of room sizes;• On site Catering facilities;• Inhouse catering;• On site car parking for 40 cars

and public car parks nearby;• Disabled facilities;• Licensed for Civil Ceremonies;• PA system available for hire;• Short walk to Harrow and

Wealdstone Station;

Venue Summary

Venue Capacity (people)

Vaishnav Hall 300 (Theatre Style)140 (Round Table Seated)

Shree Yamuna Bhavan 120 (Theatre Style)

Cultural Centre 70 (Theatre Style)

Prasad Bhavan 65 (Seated)

NB: Strictly No alcohol or meat allowed.Food without onion and garlic only.

Private Hire

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Vaishnav HallCapacity: 300 people (Theatre Style)

140 people (Table Seated)

Our new state-of-the-art 300-seater Vaishnav hall is the perfect venue for any event.With an adaptable stage, professional lighting and a modern sound system, we havethe facilities to enhance any type of event.

Floor Plans

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Vaishnav HallCapacity: 300 people (Theatre Style)

140 people (Table Seated)

Our new state-of-the-art 300-seater Vaishnav hall is the perfect venue for any event.With an adaptable stage, professional lighting and a modern sound system, we havethe facilities to enhance any type of event.

Floor Plans

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Capacity: 120 people (Theatre Style)

This beautiful converted court room can be used for a variety of different events from Birthday parties, satsangs, pre wedding functions to small weddings.

ties, Loti utsav, Satsangs, Seminars, Meetings, Viddhi Ceremony and from pre-wedding functions to small

Floor Plans

Shree Yamuna Bhavan

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Capacity: 120 people (Theatre Style)

This beautiful converted court room can be used for a variety of different events from Birthday parties, satsangs, pre wedding functions to small weddings.

ties, Loti utsav, Satsangs, Seminars, Meetings, Viddhi Ceremony and from pre-wedding functions to small

Floor Plans

Shree Yamuna BhavanCapacity: 120 people (Theatre Style)

This beautiful converted court room can be used for a variety of different events from Birthday parties, satsangs, pre wedding functions to small weddings.

ties, Loti utsav, Satsangs, Seminars, Meetings, Viddhi Ceremony and from pre-wedding functions to small

Floor Plans

Shree Yamuna Bhavan

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Capacity: 70 people per room (Theatre style)

The Cultural Centre is ideal spaces for conferences, meetings and small gatherings.The rooms also have large flat screen TVs, which can be used for presentations.

Cultural Centre

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Capacity: 70 people per room (Theatre style)

The Cultural Centre is ideal spaces for conferences, meetings and small gatherings.The rooms also have large flat screen TVs, which can be used for presentations.

Cultural Centre

Capacity: 70 people per room (Theatre style)

The Cultural Centre is ideal spaces for conferences, meetings and small gatherings.The rooms also have large flat screen TVs, which can be used for presentations.

Cultural Centre

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Capacity: 65 people (seated)

The kitchen comes fully equipped with American fridge freezer, a 4-ring industrial gas hob, oven and microwave for heating up food. There is sufficient workspace for sorting out your catering order and a hatch to access the servery in the adjoining dining area.

The dining area accommodates 65 people comfortably with access to handwash sinks and a water fountain.

Floor Plans

Prasad Bhavan

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Capacity: 65 people (seated)

The kitchen comes fully equipped with American fridge freezer, a 4-ring industrial gas hob, oven and microwave for heating up food. There is sufficient workspace for sorting out your catering order and a hatch to access the servery in the adjoining dining area.

The dining area accommodates 65 people comfortably with access to handwash sinks and a water fountain.

Floor Plans

Prasad Bhavan

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Contact us today to book your event:Telephone number: 020 8861 1207Email: info@shrinathdham.org.ukWebsite: www.shrinathdham.org.uk

Address: 2a Rosslyn Crescent, Harrow, HA1 2SU

WHATEVER THE OCASSSIONWE CAN ACCOMMODATE

YOUR EVENT

Shrinathdham National Haveli & Community centre is Situated in the heart of Harrow, directly opposite the Harrow Civic Centre

Bus Routes to the Shrinathdham Haveli: (140, 182, 186, 258, 340, 640, N18)Bus Stop: Harrow Civic CentreTrain: Harrow and Wealdstone station is a 5 minutes walk away which connects to the Bakerloo line, London Overground, London Midland line and Southern Line

Civil Ceremonies from January

2022...

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Contact us today to book your event:Telephone number: 020 8861 1207Email: info@shrinathdham.org.ukWebsite: www.shrinathdham.org.uk

Address: 2a Rosslyn Crescent, Harrow, HA1 2SU

WHATEVER THE OCCASION WE CAN ACCOMMODATE

YOUR EVENT

Shrinathdham National Haveli & Community centre is Situated in the heart of Harrow, directly opposite the Harrow Civic Centre

Bus Routes to the Shrinathdham Haveli: (140, 182, 186, 258, 340, 640, N18)Bus Stop: Harrow Civic CentreTrain: Harrow and Wealdstone station is a 5 minutes walk away which connects to the Bakerloo line, London Overground, London Midland line and Southern Line

Civil Ceremonies from January

2022...

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85

Introduction To Pushtimarg Dharma

- Rajanbhai Pitamber There are three paths that Hindus follows to understand the ultimate truth and to know Bhagwan:

Gyan Marg - Knowledge, Meditation, Reading, Academic, Intellectual

Karma Marg - Action, Pujas, Yagnas, Vratas, Pragmatic

Bhakti Marg - Devotion, Love, Emotion, Faith, Implicit Surrender

1 . In Gyan marg a person realises his true self through knowledge and truth . This is said to be the most difficult of all as it is filled with many hurdles .

2 . Karma marg is the path of hard work . The journey in this path revolves around the work one does, and one’s actions .

3 . Bhakti marg is suitable for anyone and everyone . It is just surrendering in totality . For a layperson this is the preferred choice to reach Bhagwan . This path of Devotion is where one renounces everything and leaves it to the will of Bhagwan . It is the easiest path and one needs to have just pure faith (shraddha) .

In actuality and practice a mixture of all these paths can lead one to the final truth . As without Gyan wewould never know the final truth, without Devotion we will not be able to enjoy it, and without Karma wewill not be able to achieve it .

BHAKTI In the twelfth chapter of The Gita, Shri Krishna describes Bhakti yoga as a path to the highest spiritualattainments . In the ninth chapter of the Gita, He says:

“Fill thy mind with Me, be My devotee, sacrifice unto Me, bow down to Me; thus having made thy heartsteadfast in Me, taking Me as the Supreme Goal, thou shalt come to Me .”(B-Gita 9 .34)

The Bhaagvat Puran (7 .5 .23-24) teaches nine similar facets of bhakti which devotees should practice toattain their goal, as explained by devotee Prahlada . The following are the nine facets called Navdha bhakti:

(1) śhravana - (“listening” to the scriptural stories of Krishna and his companions)(2) kīrtana - (“praising,” usually refers to ecstatic group singing)(3) smarana - (“remembering” or fixing the mind on Krishna and His leelas stories),(4) pāda-sevana - (rendering service, surrendering at the feet of a guru)(5) archana - (worshiping an image swaroop of Krishna)(6) vandana - (paying homage, prostration before Krishna)(7) dāsya - (act of servitude towards Krishna)(8) sākhya - (friendship, close personal association with Krishna)(9) ātma-nivedana - (absolute self-surrender to Krishna without thought of any personal gains or rewards)

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There are two main types of Bhakti:

MARYADA bhakti – which is limited to an extentThe Maryada path is followed for attaining liberation (mukti / moksha), or for material benefits, and is practised

through worship of other forms of gods/ goddesses (devtas) . The devotee is sincerely committed and follows shastras,

rituals, poojas . When the devotee becomes eligible, the deity gives liberation and the devotee is freed of undergoing

the cycle of life and birth forever .

PUSHTI bhakti – grace filled, bountiful, overflowing loveShri Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya, the founder of Pushtimarg dharma advocated the Pushti bhakti path, which is

essentially the ninth facet mentioned above Atma-nivedana . It is that bhakti which gives itself up - body, heart and

soul - to the cause and service (seva) of Bhagwan Shri Krishna .

It is considered to be the fullest expression of what is known as Atma-nivedana (= giving-up of oneself) among the nine

forms of bhakti . It is the bhakti of the devotee who worships Bhagwan not for any reward but only for His sake . Such

a devotee goes to reside with Shri Krishna after leaving this body and lives in eternal bliss enjoying the sports (leela)

of the Lord . The classical example of this complete self-effacement is that of the gopis towards Krishna . They spoke no

word except prayer and they moved no step except towards Krishna . Their supreme-most meditation was on the lotus-

feet of Krishna . Thus, it is by Bhagwan’s grace alone that one can obtain release from bondage and attain Krishna’s

heavenly abode .

The Pushti path does not limit itself to liberation (moksha), or material benefits . Liberation has no bliss in itself for the

pushti devotee . The Ananda (bliss) aspect of Shri Krishna is what a pushti devotee seeks through his devotion . This

ananda lies nowhere else for the ardent devotee but in Shri Krishna’s bhakti alone . Pushti Bhakti can never be practised

with an expectation in return, just as a mother loves and cares for her dear child without reservation and without

expectation of reward . Hence pushti bhakti is called “Bhaituki”, i .e . without a reason, or “Nishkama” or desire less .

Hence a Pushti Bhakta does Shri Krishna’s bhakti with bountiful love with only one aim and that is to please Krishna -

called “Prema Lakshana Bhakti”, which is explained by Shri Vallabha as “Total Surrender to Shri Krishna” .

What is a JEEV?

To perform bhakti the physical body is not enough alone but has to have an animate soul, which is the actual driving

force of life itself . This is the greatest gift of Bhagwan to human beings . A jeev-atma is the soul, and though detached

from Bhagwan is still considered a part and parcel of Bhagwan, who in turn is regarded as the paramatma (supreme

soul) . Atma is called jeev when bounded by bondages of Prakruti (nature) . All jeevs are in different evolutionary stages

(having been weakened by unrighteous karmas) . Some are more advanced on the spiritual evolutionary scale than

others . When freed from rebirth one is called a Mukta . Bhagvan the paramatma created the universe and other atmas

for His pleasure and sport (leela) .

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• Daivya Jeev – This is a righteous living, god-fearing, good-hearted soul . Daivya is a derivative fromthe

word ‘dev’ . One who has intrinsic values of a ‘devta’ (demigod), i .e . divine enlightened qualities, is called a ‘Daivya

jeev’ . Such beings are devoted to Bhagwan and have faith in Him . They have qualities like empathy, gratefulness, and

magnanimity, penance, love and affection, forgiveness, peace, non-violence and other such positive qualities . They

practice religion specifically to attain God .

• Asuria Jeev - This is a materially inclined soul with negative traits . The people in this world, who are busy

constantly enjoying sensual and materialistic pleasure of life, who are possessed with anger, avarice, attachment,

violence, inhumanity, deceit and other such amoral traits are called ‘asuria’ (demonic) . Even though they may be

occasionally indulging in religious practices, they do it with a selfish motive, without really believing in Bhagwan .

Perhaps half of the people in the world belong to this type .

• Maryada Jeev and Pushti Jeev - Shri Vallabhacharya has further divided ‘daivya jeevs’ into two distinct

types . They are ‘Maryada’ and ‘Pushti’ . Bhagvan has stated various paths in the Vedas and other scriptures, to attain

Him . The ‘daivya jeev’ who follows the paths expounded in these ‘shastras’ of his own will, is called a ‘Maryada Jeev’ .

Then there are those chosen people whom Bhagwan blesses Himself . Regardless of that person’s foibles Bhagwan

the eternal source of mercy, enlightens him and directs that person to follow dharma and His seva . Such blessed and

graced by Bhagwan Himself are known as ‘Pushti Jeev’ . Pushti means also ‘Krupa’ or grace, meaning nourishment and

strength (from root word “Poshan”) obtained by God’s grace .

GURU

A Guru is an enlightened spiritual teacher who leads us from darkness and into the light . The guru is the helping hand

of an experienced and elevated soul – the light shining on our evolutionary path, the remover of our darkness and

ignorance . Being ordinary individuals, we need constant support and guidance, which is provided through the wisdom

of a superior soul . The guru therefore acts as a conduit or a channel through which we can reach Bhagwan . The guru

teaches us Dharma shastras and answers are troubling questions . The founding master teacher (acharaya) of the

Pushtimarg faith is Shri Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya . He is the principal founding Guru and today his descendents

continue the teachings and we accept them as our bona fide gurus .

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VAISHNAVAThe worshippers of Vishnu are called Vaishnavas . Vishnu literally means The All Pervading One - ‘vishnu vishateh - one

who enters everywhere and is present in every atom of creation’ . And, ‘yad vishito bhavati tad vishnurbhavati; that

which is free from chains and bondages is Vishnu .’ Thus one who believes that Bhagwan is everywhere and existing in

everything is classed as a Vaishnava .

The Vishnu Sahasranama mentioned in the Mahabharata declares Vishnu as Paramatma (supreme soul) and

Parameshwara (supreme God) . It describes Vishnu as the All-Pervading essence of all beings, the master of—and

beyond—the past, present and future, the creator and destroyer of all existences, one who supports, sustains and

governs the Universe and originates and develops all elements within .

The Puranas also describe each of the Dasavatara of Vishnu . Among these ten principal avatars described, nine of

them have occurred in the past and one will take place in the future, at the end of Kali Yuga . In the commentary of

creator Brahma in Vishnu Sahasranamam, he refers to Vishnu as “Sahasrakoti Yuga Dharine”, which means that these

incarnations take place in all Yugas in cosmic scales . Bhagavad Gita mentions their purpose as being to rejuvenate

Dharma and vanquish negative forces as also to display His divine pastimes in front of the conditioned/fallen souls .

In almost all Hindu denominations, Vishnu is either worshiped directly or in the form of his ten avatars, such as Narsimha,

Vaman, Rama and Krishna, and these 4 are considered important in Pushtimarg dharma as each convey certain

significant teachings . For example if we take VAMAN bhagvan – His 3 steps signify Tan, Man, Dhan - i .e . serve God

with body, mind, wealth and purify all these three .

The Krishna avatar of Vishnu is considered as the Purna (complete) Purushottam (greatest person) . Born to father

Vasudev and mother Devaki the Purna Purushottam Balkrishna (child Krishna) was brought up by foster parents

Nandabawa and Yashodaji at Gokul town, near His birth place of Mathura city . As instructed by our Pushti Guru,

Shree Vallabhacharya we worship/do seva (render service) to this infant Balkrishna swaroop (image) .

SOME QUALITIES OF A TRUE VAISHNAVA• Should be humble, charitable, honest, and compassionate to all beings

• Must be free from jealousy, pride, anger, and vices

• Should see Bhagvan Krishna in everything and maintain ardent faith

• Must be truthful, just, and practice ahimsa (non-violence)

• Interested in Satsang (keep company with truth seekers discussing, hearing, reading, reflecting

upon Krishna and Vaishnavism)

• Should consume moderate vegetarian diet, and maintain self control of senses

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PUSHTIMARG PHILOSOPHY

During the 12th to 16th century there was a renaissance of the BHAKTI faith in India, and five great schools (sampradaya)

of Vaishnavism arose, founded by great saints (acharyas) Adi-Shankara, Madhava, Ramanuja, Nimbarka, and

Vallabha . They all promoted and encouraged the aspect of fervent devotion to Lord Krishna . The Pushtimarg or Path

of Grace of Shri Vallabhacharya (born in 1479 AD) is followed today by millions of people, mostly from North and

West India .

This school of thought is unique in Vaishnavism for its philosophy of Suddh Advait (pure monism, or “pure non-

dualism”) . It teaches the world is true, real, good and pure and not separate from the divine . But what could be false

about the world is the way we see it . It teaches the world is the manifestation of the Supreme Godhead Bhagwan Shri

Krishna .

Vallabhacharya’s sampradaya teaches that:

• Everything is Krishna and nothing but Krishna – that we are not separate entities .

• We are Jeev atmas trying to re-connect to the Paramatma from where we originated – the PURUSHOTTAM

KRISHNA .

• Shri Vallabha sees equality in “essence” of the individual self with Bhagwan . There is no real difference between

the two (like the analogy of sparks to the fire) .

• Shri Vallabha does however say Bhagwan is the whole (purna) and the individual is the part (ansh) .

• The jeev atma is both a doer and enjoyer . It is atomic in size, but pervades the whole body through its essence of

intelligence (like sandalwood makes its presence felt through its scent even if sandalwood can’t be seen) .

• Bhagwan is not only the creator of the universe but is the universe itself . Shri Vallabha cites the Brihadaranyaka

Upanishad account, that Bhagwan desired to become many, and He became the multitude of individual souls and

the world .

• Bhakti is the means of salvation, though Gyan is also useful .

• The highest goal is not moksha or liberation, but rather eternal service of Krishna and participation along with His

activities in His Divine abode of Vrindavana .

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• Vallabhacharya strongly believed that Bhagwan means personal God – the Supreme Being he could not accept

the nirguna (without attribute) and nirakar (without form) nature of God . He firmly believed that Bhagwan is in

the personal form only; therefore this personal form can accept his devotion and services (seva bhakti) .

• The enjoyment of Bhagwan’s bliss and Bhagwan’s grace are considered as the primary goals of the devotee,

seeking liberation is secondary to it .

• Achieving the knowledge (Gyan) – brahmagyan or atmagyan - is not considered as important as the personal

services (seva) rendered to Shri Krishna . Liberation automatically follows the total surrender and devotion by

Krishna’s grace only .

• The objective is to please Shri Krishna who is considered as Narayan or God himself (Svayam Bhagavan) .

• The reason for the creation is considered as no other than the sport pastime (leelā) of Shri Krishna, and is unlike

illusion (maya) of Vedanta .

• To be with Krishna we serve with Bhava (unconditional loving attitude) like the Gopis of Vrindavan . [Gopi = also

means absorbing love of Krishna with “11 senses” [i .e ., the 5 sense organs plus the 5 senses plus the mind] .

• In all the philosophical traditions, it is common practice to describe how the Supreme Lord is related to our

surroundings and us . In the system of Suddh Advait Vedanta, the One Ultimate Reality is the only category . Every

other thing has proceeded from Him at the time of creation, is non-different from Him during creation and merges

into Him at the time of dissolution . The two other well-known categories namely the animate souls (jeevs) and

the inanimate objects are respectively His parts and modifications . The animate souls are His parts because they

retain to some extent the essential qualities thereof namely consciousness (chit) and joy (anand) . The inanimate

objects are His modification because the above said qualities are absent therein .

• In Vallabhacharya’s philosophy the atma, Nature (Prakriti /universe) and everything else is real but appears

distinct from Bhagwan until one is totally engrossed in the bhakti of Shri Krishna, at that time everything is

realised as Bhagwan . Just as Gopis used to see and realised everything as Krishna and nothing but Krishna .

For example, when they were selling butter they used to see Krishna instead of butter! Surprisingly, in this non-

dualistic philosophy the general belief that Bhagwan is unparalleled, the one and only is still maintained . The

difference in Vallabhacharya’s tradition and other Vaishnava Acharya’s traditions is in the style of worship or

devotion and in the use of specific terminologies .

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In Pushtimarg the initiation into the tradition means “Brahmsambandh .” The word “brahmsambandh” literally means the

relationship (sambandh) or union of the soul with Brahm (the supreme entity or Bhagwan) . Brahmsambandh is needed

to transform the ordinary jeev (soul) to Pushti jeev (pure or graced soul) . The exclusive rights to grant Brahmsambandh

are only given to the descendants of Shri Vallabhacharya who initiate devotees through two specific mantras:

1 . Ashtakshar mantra: the 8 syllable ‘Shri Krushna Sharanam Mama’

2 . Nivedan mantra: a longer holy mantra which is only spoken and not revealed on paper

“Pushtimarg” means the path of spiritual nourishment through the grace of God/Bhagvan . The one who is admitted

to the Pushtimarg gets the kind of purity of one’s soul, which is needed to be eligible to pursue bhakti (meaning, the

daily worshiping or services called seva of the image/murti (as if it is a living deity) which is known as Pushti Chitraji

/ Swaroop, respectively), and develop a personal relationship with Bhagvan .

Vallabhacharya was a contemporary of Chaitanya Mahaprabhuji . Shri Chaitanya’s tradition is known for the Kirtan

Bhakti of adult Krishna, and Vallabhacharya’s tradition is known for the Seva Bhakti of child Krishna (Lālji) .

SHRI VITTHALNATHJI (Gusaiji)

Gusaiji (1516 - 1586) was the younger son of Shri Vallabhacharya . Along with his elder brother Gopinathji, he

grew up in the pious environment of his father’s new sampradaya and later Shri Gusaiji ascended to the guru gadi of

Pushtimarg . He married twice and had seven sons and four daughters . During his own lifetime, he decided to make

Gokul his head-quarters and to make the matters of inheritance as smooth as possible, he gave each of his sons one of

the sacred swaroops and established a separate haveli for each one of them in Gokul . ShriNathji remained at Jatipura

even during Shri Gusaiji’s lifetime .

Shri Gusaiji was an exceptional person who managed to expand the popularity of the Pushti sampradaya in

a way very differently to his father and brother . He had a knack of explaining the most difficult philosophical point in

very simple terms . Even the most ordinary people could understand and appreciate his teachings . His refined tastes

and excellent abilities to explain philosophical matters helped him win some very powerful friends in the political

circles of the times . Some of his devotees included members of the imperial family at Agra, members of the imperial

court, and several important Hindu royal families of the times .

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He toured the whole of India to spread the message of Pushtimarg and also wrote many literary works . He

introduced and elaborated on the various Seva rituals as a means of experiencing love for Thakorji . He introduced

different forms of art such as music, drawing and dancing in Seva . During his own time he added four more poet

saints to the divine court of ShreeNathji, other that the 4 poets designated by Shri Mahaprabhuji and brought the

final number of poet saints to eight which are even today popularly known as ‘Ashta Sakha” . The great kirtans of

Krishna Leela are sung to this day in Vaishnav havelis . Some of the best known manoraths in our sect were also

initiated during Shri Gusaiji’s tenure as head of the sect . Shri Gusaiji had many disciples around the country . His most

celebrated disciples and their spiritual experiences are recorded in the 252 Vaishnav’s varta (stories) - written by his

son Shri Gokulnathji and later commentaries made by Shri Hariraiji . These Vaishnavas are held up as the role models

for all other Vaishnavas to follow . These life accounts describe how these blessed souls met their guru, Shri Gusaiji,

and the divine effects of those meetings . They received all kinds of amazing grace, which granted them the vision and

experience of their eternal Beloved, Shri Krishna .

Once during the height of the North Indian summer, Shri Gusaiji was travelling between Gokul and Jatipura by

palanquin at mid-day . Suddenly, the retinue came to a stop and there were muffled sounds of an argument at the front .

Impatient to be with Lord ShriNathji, Shri Gusaiji ordered the nearest servant to go and investigate the cause of the

hold-up . The man soon returned and with due humility reported, “Maharaj, there is an old Muslim woman sitting in the

middle of the road and she refuses to move . She says she is very thirsty and too parched to move on .”

Instinctively, Shri Gusaiji said, “If the woman is thirsty, give her some water!!” With folded hands, the servant replied,

“But we do not have any water in a separate disposable cask for her .” Being Muslim, the high caste brahmin and

Vrajvasi servants of Shri Gusaiji felt they would be defiled if they helped her move bodily (touch of non-Hindus and

low caste people was considered to be impure) and, if they gave her one of their own water bottles/ casks, that item

would be defiled too and could not than be reused by them .

Shri Gusaiji immediately picked up a jariji at hand and got out of the palanquin . He walked over to the old woman

and gave her with his own hands . He spoke kindly to her and seeing that there was still some water left in the jariji, he

left it with the woman so that she would not suffer from thirst till she got home .

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Having satiated her thirst, the woman moved on, but as the retinue passed her, she asked one of the servants who

the kind person was that helped her . Upon finding out it was the great acharya from Gokul himself the woman said,

“Ajatak Gopal sune thai . Aja dekhi hai .” (Till now I had heard of the Lord Gopal (Krishna as a cow-heard), today I

have actually seen him .”

After reaching Jatipura, Shri Gusaiji first went to meet his beloved ShriNathji and then set down to converse with the

Vaishnavas there . Puzzled by the earlier incidence, one of the servants asked, “My lord, please explain to me why you

gave away the Lord’s own gold jariji, and that to a poor old Muslim woman?”

With a smile, Shri Gusaiji replied, “You saw a “poor, old, Muslim, woman .” I saw the Lord sitting in the middle of the

road, and He was thirsty . Every soul is imbibed with the Lord’s spirit . Our Vishudhadvait philosophy teaches us that

every particle of this universe is a part of the Lord . How can I then see the old woman in the road as anything other

than Bhagwan Himself?”

As the man mused over this, Shri Gusaiji continued, “The jariji is inconsequential in this . I did not even notice that it was

made of gold . (It was the jariji of Shri Navnitpriyaji who was travelling with Shri Gusaiji in his palanquin .) My main

concern was that a soul was suffering from thirst in the middle of the afternoon, and that too during the summer! What

is the cost of a life compared to the cost of a jari?”

It was this boundless compassion that was the trademark of our beloved Shri Gusaiji . His wit, common sense and

intelligence were beyond compare .

PUSHTIMARGA CHARACTERISTICSPushtimarg of Shri Vallabha is a “Sampradaya” – which means a “Religious system or school” .

A Sampradaya has 8 characteristics:

1 . ACHARYA - (guru Shri Vallabha and his descendents are our teachers)

2 . ISHTA SWAROOP - (we serve Balkrishna swaroops, Shri Govardhan Nathji)

3 . MANTRA - (Two mantras are given by Acharyas in Pushti – Ashtakshar / Naam

mantra, and Brahmsambandh / Nivedan mantra)

4 . VEDANTA - (we follow Vallabha’s Suddh Advait Vedanta teaching)

5 . DHARMA CHINAHA- (symbols, e .g . wearing Tulsi maala, Tilak, etc .)

6 . PARAMPARA Gaadi- (Vansha, lineage of Vallabha family descendants head the faith)

7 . SADHAN PRANALI - (seva prakar >> protocol and rules of Nitya/daily seva)

8 . PHAL - (fruit of seva is Bhagvat Praapti, attaining Bhagwan)

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As mentioned before, there are many paths to reach Bhagwan, either through different religions, or through different

Hindu sampradayas . It is like various schools with different protocols, teachers and uniforms, yet curriculum is similar

and the concluding result is a similar qualification in the end (though not exactly the same!) . We try to choose the most

comfortable, attractive, interesting or easiest path to attain our goal . Our chosen path is PATH OF GRACE and intense

love (Krupa Marg) as taught by Shri Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharya .

After deep study and practical experience Vallabhacharya introduced a simple way to attain God by following

simple principles and rules . Bhagwan Himself showers His grace on His Pushtimarg Vaishnavas and we obtain spiritual

nourishment thereby .

Here follows a summary of key characteristic points:

• Instead of ritualistic worship (puja) the emphasis is on an elaborated Seva (service) and bhakti of Shri Krishna

(endearingly referred to as Shri Govardhan Nathji, or Shri Nathji for short) to fulfil every kind of happiness of the

Baal swaroop . Thus, mind remains fully engaged and focused on a personal God, which reinforces our bhakti .

• Seva is done with the mindset (bhava) as if we are serving a child with love and care and the swaroop is no other

than Paramatma Shri Krishna Bhagwan Himself .

• Bhagwan is also lovingly referred to as Shri Thakorji, meaning “lord of the manor” since child Krishna grew up in

a Haveli (grand house) and hence is termed lord of the big house . (Thakor is the traditional Indian name given to the

wealthy head of a large property/land)

• In this Bhakti Marg, Pushti Vaishnavas perform Seva at home along with responsibilities of family and society life (i .e .

we remain Grihasta = householders) . Bhagwan is invited into our own HOME rather than sought OUTSIDE .

• Pushtimargis do not renounce life to become reclusive sanyasis, but perform their Dharma duty to life and Seva to

Krishna with support of family .

• Griha Seva – personal service is performed at home, with bhava (unconditional loving attitude) to a personal God

Swaroop (Thakorji) that has been sanctified (Pushtav) by the Vallabhkul Balak (guru of Vallabhacharya’s lineage)

• As per Hindu tradition, one has to be initiated by a Guru to follow Pushtimarg, and our gurus (Goswami balaks)

are from the lineage of Mahaprabhu Vallabhacharyaji . Seva can then be performed after initiation/permission of

Vallabhkul through taking of Brahmasambandh

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• Unlike most ritualistic Pujas (honouring, adoration for attaining blessings or other material things), this Pushti Seva is

undertaken selflessly without asking for any returns or rewards – just out of pure sincere love and devotion .

• Always the mind is focussed only on Krishna = “BHRAMAVAD” = all is Krishna . The Ashtakshra mantra is constantly

chanted anywhere at anytime by all devotees .

• All Vaishnavas greet each other with the words Jai Shri Krishna (praise be to Bhagwan)

• Vaishnavas greet the Vallabhkul gurus with the words Dandvat Pranam (meaning bowing in reverence and

honour)

• Wearing of a Tulsi kanthi necklace for all, doing Tilak (U) for males, red Bindi and saree for women are the main

symbols . Tulsi maala is used for doing jaap (repetition of mantra)

• Like all Hindu faiths there is a female counterpart, Shakti, to the male God . In the case of Pushtimarg Lord Shri

Krishna is closely associated with SHRI YAMUNAJI . She is one of the 8 consorts of Shri Krishna who married

Him in Dwarika as Kalindi . Shri Yamunaji is the gateway for the soul’ s journey to ShriNathji . She helps the ardent

Vaishnava to reach Shri Krishna Thakorji and attain His grace . She purifies the souls and removes all obstacles of

Vaishnavas and hence is therefore also known as Krupa Shakti . She is the most beloved of Lord Shrinathji . In fact Shri

Yamunaji is of greatest importance because it was due to Her grace that Shri Vallabha gained first darshan (sight) of

Lord Shrinathji on the banks of Yamuna River (Thakurani Ghat) . It was here that Shri Vallabh was

inspired to write the famous hymn of gratitude called Yamunashtak which is important for all Vaishnavas to recite .

Having covered some of the key principles we thus come to the end of the brief introduction and insight

into the vast ocean of Pushtimarg Dharma faith .

JAI SHRI KRISHNA

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UNDERSTANDING YOGA

-KAMU PALAN Many centuries ago, ancient India sages, mystics and thinkers drew upon the inspiration of life and death to reveal one of the greatest gifts to the human race: yoga .

The term yoga derived from Sanskrit means union, bringing together, connection and communion . And refers to the ev-er-present union between the individual spirit or self, jiva, and the universal spirit of self, atma . This can also be thought of a personal consciousness connecting with global consciousness . In yogic thought, this union is real and concrete, and is described as enlightenment or self-realization . Through the various practices of yoga, we are able to realize the divine eternal spirit which connects and flows through us all .

The nature of yoga is discovered in the doing . In essence, it is a nonverbal process, an inner journey to the true center of the soul, which is the source of all happiness and ultimately of union or non-separateness . This inner journey fol-lows many concurrent paths-the pursuit of personal integrity and moral restraint, physical exercises and breathing techniques, and development of concentration or “one-pointedness”-that will hopefully lead us to attain the state of meditation in which we are able to find the ultimate bliss of self-realization .

Yoga does not mean only doing the beautiful and awesome postures whereby majority of us are not able to do . Yoga is all about postures, meditation, breathing, mudras, pressure points and much more . By practicing yoga, you can travel within yourself and understand yourself .

MEDITATION

The practice of meditation increasing our awareness of ourselves and of the ways in which we relate to the rest of the creation and enable us to live fully in each moment with contentment, serenity and love . It stills our endless thoughts, mind and energy being used unnecessarily . Meditation makes our mind to go inwards and look within .

The physical awakening of our body is the first step for many of us on the yoga journey . Through the bodily practice of yoga, consciousness merges with the movement of the breath, and the body merges with the motion and stillness of the meditation .

YOGA POSTURES: ASANAS - MEANING SEAT

This is all to do with your flexibility of your muscles and bones making them supple and strong and flexible . By doing the right postures one can also reduce all the ailments in the body but one needs to learn first from a professional . Doing unbelievable postures is not necessary and is not for everybody . One should do only what one is capable and gradually increase your postures with time and what your body allows you to do . Yoga is not a competition it is to enjoy the blissfulness within whether you are in meditation or yoga postures . Even in the stillness of each posture, the natural motion of breathing continues releasing the body further with each breath . Yoga has been given so many different names by the western world and has lost some of the originality of yoga . One of the best is Ashtanga Yoga .

ASHTANGA YOGA

Yoga has it seeds in the beginning of time, yet it still continues to evolve . It is a live breathing art inspired from the depths of nature . Astanga is a unique form of physical yoga that places emphasis on the flowing enery of breath, body and mind to cultivate and inner core strength . Its primary instrument is the body where by it uses all the eight limbs of the body while doing the asanas . It also deepens the awareness of all the ones who are practicing any type of yoga .

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MUDRAS

Mudras are the gestures of the fingertips and fingers . One can control the ailment of the body by just doing mudras for certain time depending on the ailments . They bring amazing results to the body and the betterness to the lifestyle . It is said health is your hands and you can control it yourself . All the nerve endings are at your fingertips and by pressing them regularly one can start feeling the results . Mudras changes the elements in your body . The five elements present in your fingers . The thumb represents the fire, index finger - air, long finger - space, ring finger - earth, and the little finger - water . All these five elements one can control by different mudras . How amazing is this . No medication is needed .

PRESSURE POINTS

Here too when one is pressing certain area in the body for certain time it has recovering results of the ailments . Pressure points are pressed generally with the tip of the thumb or by using the pressure point sticks .

CHAKRAS

What do I say about the chakras!! So many chakras in the body and there are seven main chakras that are responsible for all our body functions and wellbeing . Every chakra has function in the body and has benefits too when they are active and when they are blocked one has an ailment . We can open and activate our chakras by performing different mudras and breathing and asanas . With different breathing and postures the chakras are activated . The main seven chakras are:

• Mulaadhar chakra-located two fingers above the base of the anus and two fingers below the urinary organ . All the chakras has its own scent, color, mantra, asanas and much more .• Swadhistan chakra - is two fingers above the muladhara chakra .• Manipur chakra - it is around the navel and surrounding area .• Anahat chakra also known as heart chakra - needless to say it is located in the heart region with hrdaya chakra which is part of the heart too .• Vissudhi chakra- in the throat region . • Ajna chakra - is in the middle spot between the eyebrows . • Sahasrara chakra-location is on the top of the head .When the chakra meditation is practiced it will take you to a different level and especially when you have activated the sahasrara also known as the crown chakra you will be enlightened . The ego disappears and much more .

I could go on and on about yoga as there is so much in it and the whole universe is in your own body .

Practicing yoga on a daily basis for 15-20 minutes will change your life and will make you a very humble, loving, passionate person . One can be living a very blissful life and egoless and not in a materialistic world .

As the body and breath flow together as one . Internal heat is generated and begins a process of purification . Through practice, layers of bodily existence are cleansed transforming deep rooted patterns to liberate the body, mind and heart .

My advice to all human race is practice yoga and you will be disease free .eace and light to all .

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Children’s Wellbeing - Sonal Doshi Supporting children to build their confidence and self-esteem can be great contribution

to their mental health and wellbeing . Children who are more confident tend to be more open

to trying new activities, learning from mistakes, participate in social settings, and make the

most of the opportunities around them . It is not uncommon for children to struggle with having

confidence in themselves . Here is a list of ten top tips to help parents and carers support children

to build and maintain good confidence and self-esteem:

1 . Positive Self Talk and Affirmations: Children with low self-esteem tend to get into a cycle of negative self-talk and can often remind themselves

of the negative things that they believe about themselves, rather than the good . It can be really usefulto encourage

children to break this cycle by getting them to consider what they believe they are good at, or positive qualities they

display . These can be written on small “Affirmation Cards”, which can serve as a reminder of all the good things that

they think about themselves, when they are feeling low .

2 . Value effort, not perfection: Children can often strive for perfection and criticise themselves when this is not achieved . It is important to

remind children that success does not mean absolute perfection has to be achieved . Rather, their hard work and efforts

should be congratulated . This can also help children to overcome their fear of failure, something which may prevent

them from trying new opportunities or achieving their full potential .

3 . Learn from mistakes: All children make mistakes . Although seen as a negative, these are actually important events which can help

children to learn and develop new skills . When a child makes a mistake, try to avoid criticism and instead discuss what

happened and how things could go better if it were to happen again in the future . Show children that it is okay to make

mistakes, but the important thing is that we learn from them . This can help children to avoid shame and instead develop

new life skills and understanding which they can be proud of .

4 . Cultivate their Talents: Help children to develop a more positive image of themselves by encouraging them to develop their interests

and talents . Encourage them to participate in extra-curricular activities which enable them to do the things they enjoy

and use different skills; such as getting involved with creative groups, sports or volunteering . Praise them for their efforts

and show them that it is okay to try something new in order to find what they are good at .

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5 . Create a ‘Box of Achievements’: Having a box where children can store all their achievements can be an excellent reminder to them of all the

amazing things they have done . Another component of this is to get into a habit of writing down any small successes

onto bits of paper and keeping them in the box . – This may be anything from sharing a toy with a sibling or responding

maturely to disappointing news .

6 . Avoid comparison with others: Occasionally parents may (unknowingly) compare children to other children or siblings . Of course, there is

always scope to learn from their peers and improve, however if comparison happens on a regular basis it can often

cause children to doubt themselves and lose confidence . Try to avoid comparison with others and embrace the child’s

individuality .

7 . Set Tasks and Chores: Ask the child to participate in age-appropriate activities, either simple household chores such as setting the

table, putting laundry away or watering the plants . This can give the child a sense of responsibility, help them to feel

useful and have confidence in their ability and skills .

8 . Set Goals: Help children to turn dreams into achievable goals by making a list of all the things they want to accomplish .

This will help to validate their interests and learn which skills are needed to help them get to where they want to in life

Discuss what steps may be needed to achieve these, and how sometimes goals may take a bit longer than expected to

achieve, and that that is okay . Also explain that it is okay for goals to change over time, and that the path to “success”

may not be straightforward, with some road bumps and twists to be expected .

9 . Make time for play: Make sure that time is spent during the week where you give your child undivided attention to play . Allow them

to take the lead and consider what games they want to play or activities they want to do . This not only shows to them

that you’re interested in them and enjoy spending spend with them, but it also helps to develop a bond where they can

be free to express their personality and interests .

10 . Express emotions: Encourage your child to be open and express how their feeling; including all their worries and anxieties . This

will help children to understand their emotions more, and also encourage discussions to resolve conflict and rationalise

any negative feelings that they might have about themselves or events .

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Osteoporosis - Dr Nutan Tanna

Osteoporosis – Should I worry about this medical condition? Osteoporosis is a silent condition that causes illness and disability in the elderly . A person with osteoporosis has low bone mass which means that they have an increased risk of having a fracture (broken bone) . The most common fractures are those of the spine, hip, and wrist . Osteoporosis is more common in Asian and Caucasian (White) populations, and rare in African-American black populations . This can be explained partly by racial differences in the size of the skeleton .

The incidence of osteoporotic fractures increases with age . Research tells us that in women, this risk is often seen after the age of 45 years with patients having mainly forearm or wrist fractures . After 65 years of age, the risk of hip fracture is higher . Of people surviving to the age of 80 years of age, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer a hip fracture . These ‘fragility fractures’ are not only costly for the NHS to treat but they also have a high personal social cost .

Bone mass measurements Most of the bone mass is achieved during childhood and young adolescent age when modelling of the skeleton is at its peak . In general, peak bone mass occurs by 25-30 years of age . Factors related to hormones and the environmental are responsible for bone loss after age 40, and this is seen in both men and women . Table 1 presents the risk factors for osteoporosis .

Menopause is a risk factor for women and lower oestrogen hormone levels are associated with bone loss; some menopausal women lose bone rapidly (more than 5% per year) while others lose bone at around 1% per year . Bone mass measurements are used to predict the risk of fracture . If you have some of the risk factors given in Table 1, and you have gone through the menopause, you should see your GP for advice to decide whether you need to have a bone density scan . This involves bone mass measurements which are reported as T-scores with classification ranges that have been agreed by the World Health Organisation .

If you have had a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan, then your bone mineral density will have been measured at the spine and hip site . If your T score is 1 or above, you will be classified as having normal bone mineral density . If the T-score is between -1 to -2 .5 then you will be classified as having osteopenia and if below -2 .5 then you have osteoporosis . If your T score is below -2 .5 and you also have had a fragility fracture before, then you have severe osteoporosis .

TABLE-1: RISK FACTORS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS• Hypogonadism [including early or premature menopause / androgen deficiency]• Glucocorticoid [steroid] therapy• Previous fracture, particularly after menopause• Maternal (mother’s side) history of hip fracture • Low bodyweight• Secondary causes (eg . conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis or drugs such as Aromatase Inhibitors used to treat breast cancer) .• Current cigarette smoking• Excess alcohol consumption• Low dietary Calcium intake• Vitamin D deficiency• Late puberty• Physical inactivity• High caffeine intake

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It is important to remember that we all, both men and women, lose some bone mass after the age of 40 . This is the ageing-related risk . A diagnosis of osteopenia at a young age, for example between 40 - 50 years of age needs to be assessed but the same diagnosis at age 65 or over in a woman means that she has done quite well from the bone point of view .

What is available on the NHS If you are concerned about any of the risk factors in Table 1, and you would like to work out your risk for fracture, then you can log onto https://www .sheffield .ac .uk/FRAX/tool .aspx?country=1 for the FRAX UK tool and make an appointment with your GP to discuss the results . You can calculate your risk for fractures without a bone mineral density scan (DXA) result . The FRAX tool will give you an idea as to whether you are at high or low risk and will help you decide whether to see your GP for further advice . The Department of Health has asked GPs to keep a record of patients, particularly postmenopausal women with an osteoporotic fracture, as these are the group that are at high risk of having a further fracture . GPs also keep a record of how many of these patients have had a DXA scan (a DXA scan may not be necessary over age 65) and how many are on treatment to help maintain good bone mineral density . If a GP has a complex case, they will refer the patient to a specialist clinic at their local hospital .

Research tells us that patients prescribed osteoporotic medicines often take them incorrectly or stop taking them due to side effects . To reduce a person’s fracture risk, it is important to ensure that patients are well informed and involved with the decision on what treatment to take, and that they take their medicines correctly .

Lifestyle advice: It is important to have a healthy balanced diet, with enough carbohydrates and proteins, and foods that are rich in calcium and vitamin D . Exposure to sunshine for around 20 minutes in the morning (avoid strong mid-day sunshine) and evening between April to October in the UK can help with maintenance of good Vitamin D levels . If your Vitamin D levels are low, you should get a Vitamin D supplement and take it regularly . Weight bearing exercise such as walking is good for bone health, whilst activities such as swimming and yoga help with good muscle tone and stress relief . Smoking can harm bone cells, so it is always a good idea to stop . Excessive alcohol intake can increase risk of falls and fracture .

Exercise videos for patients with osteoporosis:The Royal Osteoporosis Society has produced YouTube exercise videos to help with posture, promote bone and muscle strength and to help with balance .

https://theros .org .uk/information-and-support/osteoporosis/living-with-osteoporosis/exercise-and-physical-activity-for-osteoporosis/bone-and-muscle-strengthening/

https://theros .org .uk/information-and-support/osteoporosis/living-with-osteoporosis/exercise-and-physical-activity-for-osteoporosis/caring-for-your-back/exercises-to-help-with-posture/

https://theros .org .uk/information-and-support/osteoporosis/living-with-osteoporosis/exercise-and-physical-activity-for-osteoporosis/staying-steady/

Dr Nuttan Tanna, Consultant Pharmacist, Women’s Health and Clinical Advisor, Royal Osteoporosis Society .

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With the guidance and blessings of our founding Patron, VaishnavacharyaShree Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshree (Kadi, Ahmedabad), VSUK has been running various projects throughout the pandemic, supporting people

of all ages through youth classes, dramas and dances (ages 5 to 35), online Satsangs with over 1000 people, kirtans, virtual workshops.

Anna Daan Abhyan / Mahaprasad AbhyanUnder the guidance of our Spiritual Head VaishnavacharyaShri Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshri (Kadi, Ahmedabad), this program served thousands of the most affected, in India, with food kits that will supply them with enough food supplies during these difficult times.

VSUK – NHS Fundraiser for Covid-19On Thursday 11th June 2020 we welcomed the Chief Executive, Chief Financial Officer and other senior members of the London North West NHS Trust to Shrinathdham Haveli to pass on the collection of £25,000 that all of you have generously donated to this wonderful cause. They expressed their immense appreciation to all the members of VSUK.The collection enabled NHS to purchase several ventilators as well as other necessary equipment during the pandemic.

Online Manoraths/UtsavsVSUK has celebrated over 50 manorathsonline, each of which were watched by over 1000 people, with regular weekly satsangsand monthly satsangs. Manoraths included naav manorath, rath yatra, daan manorath, sanji, hindola, aam manorath, and many, many more. These manoraths and celebrations brought excitement and joy within the community.

Covid Response Activities

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Prasad VitranThis initiative was designed to allow our community to more connected with Shrinathdham Haveli and National Community Centre.

Thakorji’s Prasad was distributed nationally, and the community felt less isolated seeing a familiar face at their doorstep.

Social Community SatsangsVSUK have been leading various community satsangs over the pandemic that have been highly appreciated, including mental health, covid panel discussion, census, etc. They are each led by a professional in the area and discuss important topics for Vaishnavs to consider. They have been a huge success and our Vaishnavs look forward to them.

Vastra DaanVastra Daan (Clothes Drive) is an initiative begun by Je JeShree whereby Vaishnavs can donate clothes to the most needy families in India.

We are extremely grateful to have received 1,700 kilos of ladies clothes since the project was launched. A very big thank you to all the Vaishnavs who kindly donated the Vastra and towards the cost of shipping these to India.

VSUK Community HelplineThis helpline was created to support members of the community to carry out daily tasks. Much of our community consists of elderly people, who are at a high risk when exposed to Covid-19.

This helpline included a wonderful group of volunteers who would source community resources to help those in need with covid related issues, such as food deliveries, medicine pickups, etc.

Registered Charity No 1183435vaishnavsangh.org.uk facebook.com/vaishnavsanghofuk/

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Darshan Jobanputra – Balpushti Member“At 7 years old I joined Paathshala and during that time I gained a lot of knowledge about

Pushtimarg. Every lesson became so fun, starting with fun games about Pushtimarg and general Knowledge. At the start of every lesson we sing Manglacharan and we chant

Ashtakshar mantra 11 times. I have also learnt the Gujarati vowels and alphabet. I have taken part in many, many plays and have sung lots of songs which have appeared online.

My favourite time of my Paathshala lesson is the Kahoot game we play.”

Binduben Shah & Mamtaben Kothari – Balpushti Coordinators“Our teachers cover various topics like Hinduism, Pushtimarg, Geetaji, Gujarati language etc. We are proud to see that children have also started singing Dhol-pads and kirtans. On some occasions, we also learn from them. One of our children even recited Shree Swaroop Dhyan beautifully, which consists of difficult words to pronounce. We are thankful to parents for their support. Binduben, Mamtaben and the entire Balpushti team is thankful for this opportunity to serve Hari, Guru and Vaishnavs.”

VSUK YouthThe youth activities are split into 3 age groups: Balpushti (ages 5 to 11), Kishore Pushti (ages 12 to 17) and Vaishnav Youth Group (ages 18 to 30). The groups do

regular satsangs led by the teachers, on topics relating to Pushtimargiya philosophy, Hinduism and Gujarati. All the groups come together during utsavs to perform seva,

and take part in dramas, dances and kirtans. Visit vaishnavsangh.org.uk/youth-education for more information and to register.

Dance Performances Dramas Haveli Seva

Kirtans/PaathVolunteeringSatsangs

Balpushti PaathshalaBy JeJeShree’s Ashirwad and Shree Gopal Prabhu’s Krupa, VSUK Balpushti was started in August 2017 with the aim of introducing Hinduism and to inculcate Pushtimargiyasanskaar to our young generation. Children participate in various events and utsavcelebrations in the Haveli. We started with 5 children and now there are more than

150 children.

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Reema Kotecha – Vaishnav Youth Group Member“Joining the VYG has enhanced my understanding of Pushtimarg and devotion

towards ThakorJi. It’s so heart-warming to meet people who share the same ideas and questions, and learning from them is a real blessing. Everyone’s bhaav and

enthusiasm is truly incredible, and I am so fortunate to have such a special group of friends who are really like family. I encourage anyone who might be interested

to join our Vaishnav family, and hope we can continue to serve Thakorjitogether.”

Sonal Doshi & Umang Rajdev – Vaishnav Youth Group Coordinators“Having the Vaishnav Youth Group has been an incredible blessing during the Pandemic. It has enabled all of us to take time out and reflect on our relationship with Thakorji and how we, as the youth, can perform Seva too.It has been enriching having these fulfilling conversations and having satsang with wonderful Vaishnavs week after week, and seeing everyone's bhaav growing to take up more Seva such as Patrikas, Newsletters, and Website work for the Haveli.”

Vaishnav Youth GroupVaishnav Youth Group began 2 years ago during the pandemic, enabling youth from

all over the country to join our virtual weekly satsangs. We began with basic Hinduism topics, then diving deeper into Pushtimargiya scriptures and now even

learning about Seva and Shringar.

Krish Gadhia – Kishore Pushti Member“The Kishore Pushti group has given me priceless knowledge on our dharam, seva

and sanskar. Alongside the classes the group has given me a sense of community by working with fellow Vaishnavs my age. Through the Kishore Pushti group I have

been able to serve our Shree Gopalal Prabhu through many creative avenues which have created memories which I will cherish forever.”

Urvi Rajdev & Nyrali Patel – Kishore Pushti Coordinators“The Kishore Pushti Satsangs have filled our Sunday’s with so much love. Having the chance to spend time with the children during classes, play practices and seva days have been the highlight for us this past year. It is such a pleasure to see the Kishore Pushti students doing seva together and making close friendships. Their bhaav is so inspiring to us and we are so grateful for this wonderful opportunity.”

Kishore PushtiKishore Pushti was started in February 2021 to facilitate activities for the growing

number of 12 to 17 year olds who wanted to continue learning about Pushtimarg. It has been very encouraging to see the Kishore Pushti group grow in enthusiasm. They

are always present at the Haveli helping out with all types of seva from Hindola to Sanjhi; and taking part in all performances.

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Inauguration of Shrinathdham Haveli and its Special Significance

Jai Shree Krishna.

Ever since the inception of the Vrajdham Haveli in November 2011 that was celebrated on a grand scale, the search has been on for a suitable site for the London Haveli. In the backdrop of those years when the property market boomed, the Vaishnav Sangh of UK had very specific requirements for a suitable home to house Lord Shrinathji and each potential site underwent a rigorous feasibility study where the right boxes had to be ticked. Not only did the property have to be of D1 use, it had to be within touching distance of the vibrant North West London Community which was the core base for Vaishnav Sangh of UK’s loyal supporters and congregation. Adequate parking facilities also had to be present with multiple rooms to house all future activities of a Haveli (temple for Lord Shrinathji).

The finding of Shrinathdham Haveli in Harrow could not have come at a better time and met all the required criteria mentioned above in the most prime location in Harrow. With the divine intervention of Shree Thakorji, everything seemed to align itself so harmoniously. The happiness on the faces of all celebrating the opening ceremony was so instinctive and natural, the inauguration will always be remembered with great affection and happiness.

The Inauguration was graced by our founding Patron and Guru HH Shree 108 Dwarkeshlalji Mahodayshree (Kadi-Ahmedabad), (affectionately known by title Je Je Shree), the 17th generation descendant of Shree Vallabhacharya, the founder of Pushtimarg. The celebrations took place from Friday 31st August 2019 to Sunday 8th September 2019. Crowds and devotees thronged the Haveli premises during those fun-filled yet spiritual days. The occasion was to be telecasted around the globe by satellite television channel Aastha for wide coverage during all the days.

The proceedings followed their course as follows: -

Friday 31 August 2019, the marquee occupied the whole length of the Haveli car park making it feel regal and befitting of our well-acclaimed Patron. The proceedings commenced with a warm welcome from Chairman Subhash Lakhani on behalf of VSUK. Je Je Shree, in his customary oratorical way, opened his sermon with a description of events to come in the coming days, providing a special insight and aura to the occasion to all that attended. His speech was captivating as ever and truly set the scene.

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Saturday was the day when the great halls were inaugurated by those sponsors fortunate to have the honour of designating their chosen names on the Hall plaques that would be there to stay. The Shrinathdham Haveli has numerous halls - Yamuna Bhavan and Vallabh Bhavan, Vaishnav Hall, Education and Cultural Halls. The two kitchens were also named as well as the Phool Ghar (Garland Room) as well as the ceremonial part of the temple where the Swaroop (personification) of Shrinathji is housed (Nij Mandir).

Sunday was the day of the procession that started on the grounds of Harrow Civic Centre. There were varied types of instruments, loudspeakers, chariots, banners and flags and a cloud of joy, colour and happiness just seemed to descend over the whole of Harrow on that day. A Swaroop

(personification) of Shree Vallabh was paraded in grand fashion followed by the devotees in their colourful costumes and jovial voices and instruments. Holy mantras also set off the proceedings. Councillors, the Mayor of Harrow as well as other important dignitaries attended and were duly escorted by the Trustees and Committee members. The exuberance and vibrance of the one hour long procession was truly breath-taking. Je Je Shree was mounted upon an elephant chariot and carried himself with great awe and grandeur cheered on by the buoyant and vibrant procession. It was a day for all to remember. Everyone then took their places in the grand marquee. On that day as well as the other days, special guests from important organisations within the UK as well as abroad were invited to speak and express their feelings with regard to the opening. The descriptive and colourful speeches all added to the joy and commemoration of this unique occasion. Then of course was the Patotsav when for the first time, Shree Thakurji made himself available for public display in majestic attire of red and gold. To the very dear volunteers that took part, Je Je Shree partook in the ceremonies, ending in a crescendo that led to a Nandmohatsav where there was an outpouring of joy over the offerings like in the first day on the birth of Shree Krishna.

From Monday 2nd to Sunday 8th, along with the festivities and sermons delivered by JeJe Shree in the marquee, the following Manoraths or heartfelt celebrations of Pushtimarg, the Path of Grace, were expressed in full colour and display: Palna Nand Mohotsav, Vivah Khel Manorath, Girikandara Manorath, Bagicha Manorath, Kesri Ghata Ma Palna Manorath, Ful Faag Manorath and Maha Daan Manorath. Honorary places and privileges were of course available for those that wanted to lead but these were great celebrations all round for all the Vaishnavs.

During all the days in the evening, specially made food was available with different Indian delicacies on all the different days. To feed so many and so well was a great feat in itself and the operation of the system was only possible with well co-ordinated and attentive volunteers for whom being of service to Shree Thakurji’s devotees was a primary motivator. Despite the scalability of the occasion, all the cogs in the wheel synchronised together in harmony with alacrity.

The volunteers sub-committee worked exceedingly well over those days. For example, there were 15-20 volunteers manning the car parks of the Harrow Civic Centre where people had come from not only local areas but towns and cities far and wide. Their duties were highly admirable and probably least in the limelight but absolutely crucial. There were front desk volunteers taking care of administration matters and collecting ticketed and boxed donations. It was a great show of unity and co-ordination by all volunteers with each having an important part to play.

We invite you all to take part in our celebrations in future and indulge into the nectar of Pushtimarg, (the Path of Grace) at Shrinathdham Haveli Harrow and Vrajdham Haveli Leicester.

Jai Shri Krishna.

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Reflections at VSUK June 2019 – October 2020Shrinathdham Haveli Acquisition

Je Je Shree’s arrival

Legal completion

Celebration

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Pre-Patotsav Ceremonies

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Patotsav - Shobha Yatra

Patotsav - Haveli

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Patotsav - Performances

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Patotsav - Speakers

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Nav Villas

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Virtual Bhagwat Saptah

Virtual Shikshapatra

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Chopda Pujan

Annakut

Govardhan Puja

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Vividh Manoraths

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Vividh Manoraths

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We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to all the donors who have helped in the Shrinathdham Haveli project .

Major Sponsors

Bhavan and Sahitya Manorathis

Shree Nathji Darshan Hall - Raj Pankhania: £250,000Shree Vallabh Bhavan – Rajnikantbhai and Sarlaben Kantaria: £201,000Shree Yamuna Bhavan - Hiteshbhai Anadkat: £201,000Nijmandir - Kaushikbhai and Gitaben Manek: £101,000Mahaprasad Bhavan - Dhamecha Charitable Trust: £101,000Thakorji Rasoi Ghar - Yamuna Krupa Trust: £51,000Vaishnav Prasad Ghar – Umeshbhai and Shobnaben Davda: £25,000Shreenathji Swaroop - Vijabhai, Sudhirbhai and Pramodbhai Thakkar: £25,000Shree Vallabh Mandir – Lakhani Charitable Trust: £21,000Shree Yamunaji Mandir – Ashokbhai Pabari: £21,000Shree Thakorji Mangalbhog, Rajbhog,Chandipatra, Aarsi - Hemaben Hindocha: £21,000Phool Ghar- Sharmilaben Pabari: £15,000Shree Thakorji Sahitya Seva (palna,hindola,rath) -Pankajbhai and Nishaben Popat: £15,000Shree Baal Gopal Swaroop and Full Shringar - Minaben Popat: £15,000Saiya Mandir – Hasmukhbhai Pabari: £15,000Shree Thakorji Jariji,bantaji and Paandani - Manishbhai and Ravindrabhai Popatiya: £7,500

Chorasi Vaishnav Manorathis - £10,000 each

1 . Bhanumati & Shashikant Amin (Wembley) 2 . Sarla Vijaykumar Bhailalbhai Amin 3 . Kishor & Sudha Badiani 4 . Uk Mahila Samaj - Shree Indira Betiji 5 . Dilesh, Paru, Sonam, Ruhee & Rheea Bhayani 6 . Navinbhai Tulsidas Dassani Parivar 7 . Savitaben & Vijay Laljibhai Dattani Parivar 8 . Dattani Parivar Of Mwanza 9 . Vallabhdas Khimji Davda - Portugal 10 . Laxmiben, Jaichand, Nirmalaben, Narsidas Depala & Parivar 11 . Radhaben Harilal Depala 12 . Mahadevbhai Chatrabhuj Depala & Parivar (Joint)

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Hardik Vinodchandra Shan & Niki Hardik Shah (Banglore) Damyanti Jagdishbhai Ravatiya Gangaben Kapurchand Varsha Vinod Shah 13 . Deepika Kaushik Desai & Parivar 14 . Charumati Ashok Govindbhai 15 . Jayshree Prashant Desai 16 . Prakash Gandecha & Raksha Gandecha (Joint) Ajay C Pau & Nilam Pau 17 . Amitaben Chandrakantbhai, Eleash Prafula Gheewala 18 . Nitinbhai, Reetaben, Anika & Poonam Haria 19 . Late Vasumati & Premjibhai Hindocha 20 . Hema And Harshad Hindocha 21 . Bharat & Naina Jatania 22 . Miteshkumar I . Kothari & Mamta Mitesh Kothari (Joint) Ankit Kadakia 23 . Jyotsna Manharlal Kantaria And Parivar 24 . Himatlal And Saroj Kantaria 25 . Dwarkadas Shardaben Rashmi Santu Khagram 26 . Loving Memory Of Late Devjibhai And Jashodaben Khanderia 27 . Ansuyaben Prabhudas Kotadia 28 . Anika Ashwin Kotadia 29 . Radhaben Tulshidas Kotecha (Joint) Radhaben Tulshidas Kotecha 30 . Elesh, Alka, Rashi, Rahul & Raveena Kotecha 31 . Mr Arjan And Mrs Jayantibala Ladwa 32 . Shivani, Deep, Subhash & Rasila Lakhani 33 . Jyoti And Jayendra Lakhani 34 . Late Champaben & Late Prabhudasbhai Lakhani & Parivar 35 . Sterling Professional Finance Ltd (Joint) Sanjay Chandulal Rughani, Jaishree, Keshav & Amisha Rughani Manish Jatin Babla, Priya, Vinit & Shanaya Babla 36 . Upin, Satin J Dattani Shrish, Jayendra Madlani 37 . Nimesh H Majmundar (Joint) Tushar N Shah 38 . Jayesh Sejal And Aryan Mamtora 39 . Aden Mahila Satsang Mandal (London) 40 . Mrs Puspa Asvin Modi - Manchester (Joint) Vimlaben Vinodbhai Kotecha Parivar Dipaben, Sandeepbhai, Rajbhai Kotecha & Parivar 41 . Vijay Dwarkadas Morzaria Trupti Morzaria 42 . Kantaben C Nathwani 43 . Nanjibhai And Hiraben Pabari And Parivar 44 . Manojbhai Pankhania & Parivar 45 . Nitinchandra Dhirajlal Roopchand Parekh (Sudanwala)

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46 . Tapan, Bhavika, Eti & Anay Parikh 47 . Jagdishbhai Shardaben Patel & Parivar 48 . Bena & Kalpesh Patel 49 . Bhupendra C Patel & Anjana B Patel (Nz) 50 . Shan & Shilu Patel 51 . Narandas & Nirmalaben Pattani 52 . Rajan, Bindu, Dhiru, Kusum Pitamber 53 . Rekha Popat Kantesh Popat 54 . Vijayaben, Khushaldas, Raj, Bharat & Parag Popat 55 . Minaben Popat 56 . Bhikubhai & Pushpaben Popat 57 . Prem Manish Popatiya (Joint) Vijyagauri H Depala Bhanuben Chandrakant Thakker Depala Hansaben Kantilal Depala 58 . Late Induben M Radia 59 . Varsha, Sunil, Rushil, Rambo Raga & Parivar 60 . Lilaben Harjivanbhai Raichura And Parivar 61 . Rakesh Kanubhai Raithatha & Parivar 62 . Shantaben Vithaldas Raithatha & Parivar (Joint) Vijaya Bharatbhai Popat & Parivar Neha, Banshri, Shyam, Rishaan, Aashi, Jason & Keval 63 . Late Savitaben & Jamnadasbhai Raja 64 . Hasi Jay Rajani (Joint) Niku Raithatha Sandhya S . Gandecha 65 . Late Neeruben Satishbhai Ruparelia Parivar 66 . Nita Vinay Sanghani 67 . Dhirubhai & Atul Sanghani 68 . Savitaben Sedani And Parivar (Joint) Aruna Mahendra Lakhani Kiran & Mukesh Thakrar 69 . Amratlal Tulsidas Shah Pradip And Shrish A Shah 70 . Bhanuben Sumanbhai Shah And Parivar 71 . Binduben Pradipbhai Shah & Parivar (Joint) Jyotsnaben Mamtora Kalpana Kamleshbhai Vadhavania Daxaben Soni & Priyaben Soni 72 . Gita Rashmin Shah (Joint) Chaitali Nisarg R Shah 73 . Late Amratlal Sodha Late Bhanuben Sodha 74 . Pravinbhai, Ramaben, Shria, Sweta & Vishal Sodha 75 . Priti Vipul Somaiya 76 . Manjula Vrajlal Soni (Joint) Pankaj Rekha Pattani

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Lalitaben Keshavlal Jogia Maya Dilip Patel 77 . Smt Kantaben Chhaganlal Suchak 78 . Hemlataben K Tanna . Kantilal V Tanna 79 . Pramod & Jasu Thakkar Sunny Meera Sanvika Ruhani80 . Mrs . Jyoti & Mr . Ashok Purshottam Thakker & Parivar 81 . Late Laxmidas Mulji Thakrar & Mrs Kantaben Laxmidas Thakrar Bharat, Avnee, Anant & Lina Thakrar & Parivar Kalpna Usha, Mukesh Vithlani, Kalpna & Parivar 82 . Vinod And Daksha Thakrar 83 . Dinaben Narendra Thakrar84 . Ranjanben Michael Warner And Roshni Warner

Haveli Nirman Seva - £10,000 each

1 . Late Shree Gokaldasbhai Madhavji Saujani2 . Daksha A Thakerar

Golden Brick - £5,000

1 . Late Ketanbhai Patel & Family Ravi and Priyesh2 . Yamuna Sakhi Vrund 3 . Jasuben and Jayantilal Chandarana4 . Ashokbhai & Shobhnaben Pabari (Punam, Chandani &Roshni)5 . Jatinbhai & Neelaben Babla6 . Kamal Kiritkumar Parekh7 . Viral Rajesh Shah8 . Mr Rajesh Gohil and Mrs Maya Gohil 9 . Sudhaben Thakrar (Kantesh Popat sister)10 . Dipakbhai & Premaben Jatania & BAA (Landmak Property London Ltd .)11 . Sailesh & Alkaben Barchha (Town Yield Development Limited)12 . Bharat Babla-Sarojben D Babla13 . Chandrakant Vasanjee Shah14 . Daya Ladwa(Diwaliben Kukadia)15 . Mrs Dahiben Purshottambhai Patel Dantali Vala16 . Varsha Dattani17 . Chandresh & Dipti Dhutia18 . Nitesh Thakrar (Bhanuben & Bachubhai Mororji Kheraj Thakrar)19 . Tarla Vipinchandra Patel20 . Daksha A Thakerar21 . Dineshbhia Chotai22 . Bijal Gudka23 . Depala Samaj UK - Mrs Heena Depala24 . Hariharbhai Vallabhiya Satsang Mandal25 . Dr Hitesh Shah26 . Yuvraj & Nasiha Jatania and Viraj & Vaneesha Jatania

127

Silver Brick - £2,500

1 Mrs Laxmiben Natwarlal Popat2 Sundip Okhai3 Geetaben (Paresh Vinodbhai Pachani)4 Bharatbhai and Nilaben Madlani,Niraj and Dinta Madlani5 Raj Raghuvansi 6 Devshibhai and Late Gavriben Jatania 7 Ajitkumar Nagwdag Bhagat8 Shantaben & Malaben Lakhani9 Manisha Kaushik Thakkar10 Bhanuben Tank11 Jaysukhbhai and Meenaben Lakhani12 Shraddha Keval Parekh13 Chintan Dhirendra Shah14 Ria Amin15 Sanjeev Lakhani16 Urvi Manish Shah17 Ramjibhai Manani18 Payal Tank19 Vimlaben Gordhanbhai Patel & Parivar20 Sanjay A Mehta & Bhavna S Mehta21 Bhavik Patel22 Mayaben Patel 23 Ritesh Dilipbhai Thakker24 Lata & Gomtiben Manani25 Hemant Jobanputra26 K .K .Family27 Paresh & Mina Shah28 Narendra & Daksha Popat29 Krishna (Maniben Purshotambhai Patel)30 Sushilaben & Sardaben Patel 31 Sarju & Sonia Gokani32 Vishal Narendra Parekh33 Rajnikant Sawjani34 Kirti Chandarana35 Manisha Jatin Maniar35 Mrs Rajeshwari Jayesh Maniar36 Meenaxi Kantilal Mesuria37 Meenaxi Kantilal Mesuria38 Jayesh Jagani39 Malvikaben Vishnubhai Patel40 Pankaj Pravinchandra Desai 41 Premlata V Pabari

128

42 Snehal B Pandya43 Milind Gaglani44 Pradip and Pallavi Patel45 Hiteshbhai Rameshbhai Patel46 Girish Shantilal Shah47 Mansukh Ladwa48 Pramila Patel49 Ronak Shah50 Ishwarlal, Ansuyaben, Mukesh, Devyani, Manoj, Meera, Deep, Suvinee, Meet Vora51 Maltiben Mangaldas Juthani52 Sonita Patel53 Manisha Patel Upendra Patel54 Prabhudas Dattani55 Harshaben Prakash Ruparelia56 Pushpaben R Kotecha & Late Mr Ramniklal O Kotecha & Family57 Naresh Panachand Shah & Daxa Panachand Shah58 Dilipbhai Raithatha and Family59 Surendra Narandas Kotecha60 Mr Prashant,Shantilal & Jayshreeben Desai61 Daya Ladwa (Monghiben Ramji Ladwa)62 Meena Pradip Shah63 K Savjani 64 Shilpa H Patel (Ragini Patel)65 Sharmishta R Patel66 Batuk Raithatha67 Nayana Popat68 Sudha Mandaviya69 Dr Raju Raithatha & Mrs Smita Raithatha70 Jagruti Tanna71 Kiran and Jayshree Asher Family Muscat Oman72 Sandeep Khiroya73 Vimla Shrimankar 74 Hitenbhai Barai 75 Sarojben V Dave76 Suryakalaben Patel77 Tarla Vipinchandra Patel 78 Kantaben Bhojani, Prashant Bhojani, Krishna Bhojani79 Manisha Paun80 Tarunaben Hiralal Mehta81 Mansukhbhai & Anjanaben & Anand Pankhania82 Mr Kunal Chotai83 Kokilaben Patel84 Nitinbhai & Jayshreeben Shah85 Rajeshbhai,Nikhilbhai & Kaminben Patel86 Sonal Ravatiya

129

87 Sheela and Mehul, Ria and Rickin Popat88 Nisha and Nuttan Kantilal Tanna89 Pratima Dattani90 Rajeshbhai Juthani91 Shobha Bathia92 Vishnubhai & Mrudulaben Patel93 Arvindaben Kadecha94 Dr Shyamal Mashru95 North Harrow Satsang Mandal (Vimlaben Kotecha)96 Raju Mashru97 Amul/Bhavna Nathwani (Late Radhaben & Late Jivraj Keshavji Nathwani)98 Lalitaben Nathwani99 Dhirendra and Kundan Raja100 Anupambhai Madhusudan, Kokilaben Anupambhai Shah,Hitul,Nimisha & Darshna101 Bhanubhai K Shah102 Mrs Godavariben Gorthandas Kataria & Mrs Chandrikaben Mansukhlal Kataria 103 Jyotiben Girishbhai Shah & family

Mala no Manko - £1,000

1 Jayprakash Shah & Neelaben Shah2 Bharti Haridas & Family3 Jyotsna & Batuk Raithatha4 Pravinaben and Purshottam Somaia5 Mrs Sushilaben Kantilal Thakker6 Mrs Parita Minesh Patel7 Mayur Bhatt8 Mr Kirti Tanna/Anju Tanna9 Dhaneshchandra & Chandrika Chotai10 Vandana J Patel11 Romal Garala12 Forum Insurance13 Rasilaben Ramniklal Patel14 Vishesh Juggoo (Mr Teewaran Juggoo)15 Ravina Kotecha16 Raj Bathia17 Chandrika Parmar (Leicester)19 Mr and Mrs Praful Mohanlal Patel20 Usha Bathia21 Yogesh and Sunander Amin & Family22 Dina Shah & Kanubhai Dhanjibhai Shah23 Gemmi Patel24 Jaswatiben Nagrecha25 Anand Shah & Reema Shah (Blachill Ltd .)26 Hitendra & Hina Pancholi

130

27 Kishore and Mita Somaiya

28 Arunaben Vinodbhai Patel

29 Narendra & Daksha Popat

30 Jalaram Charitable Trust

31 Ketanbhai, Harilalbhai & Pratibhaben Kantaria

32 Rameshbhai & Chandrikaben

33 Hirenbhai & Sangitaben

34 Hiteshbhai & Rupaben

35 Pratik Popat

36 Ek Vaishnav

37 Vreej & Akshat Patel

38 Shree Gopal Prabhu Ki Sakhi, Leicester

39 Manjulaben Thakrar

40 Sandhyaben Patel

41 Pratibha N Lukka

42 Kajalben Keyur Shah

43 Pankaj Lakhani

44 Kashiben Thakrar

45 Ek Vaishnav

46 Sushil Radia

47 Nitin Savjani - Pushti Nidhi (UK) Shreeji Dham Haveli Leicester

48 Dakha Patani

49 Umangbhai Rajdev

50 Navnitbhai & Binaben Rajdev

We have bank loans totalling £1 .8mn which we hope to repay at the earliest opportunity with the kind support from

the Vaishnav community .

We have ongoing projects like Giriraj Mandir, Inauguration of Shree Vallabh Swaroop, Shree Yamunaji Swaroop

and others which have been delayed due to the pandemic . We will recommence these in the near future and look

forward to your continuing support .

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IndexAdvertisements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page No .Dhamecha Cash and Carry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inner FrontArvind Jobanputra Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4AGK Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Forum Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Awnhill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10TNK Trading Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Major Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Coffee 2 Cocktails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Astute Joiners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Infinity Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Gayatri – The Farmers Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25InXpress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Aumkar Sweets and Savouries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Namkeen House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Rajbhog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Shreeji Superstore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Sangit Paan House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Webmantra Creations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Chiropractic Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Ninit Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Gandecha & Pau Solicitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Venue 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Mayur’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Bollywood Paan Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49Falcon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Rothwall Grocery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Aquaflo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Empire Bespoke Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65DH Health and Safety Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85A-Star Tutors (UK) Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85H&C Aircon Limited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Mortgage Mantra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Jay Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Shayona Caterers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Shreeji Sweets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103SKS Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103Lion Signs & Blinds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Jalpur Millers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123Brockenhurst . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inner BackGokul Vrandawan Care Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover

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Mr Rakesh RaithathaBrockenhurst2 Central Parade, Station Road, Harrow HA1 2TW020 8357 4000 / 07867 970986info@brockenhurst.org / rakesh@brockenhurst.org

www.brockenhurst.org

18Anniversary

Celebrating 18 yearssuccessfully Selling

and Letting property

Sales • Lettings

Property Management

Commercial • Land & New Homes

Thinking of Selling or Letting?

Brockenhurst have been successfully Selling and Letting property for 18 years and have a list of buyers and tenants looking for a property now.

If you are thinking of Selling or Letting now or in the near future, please call 020 8357 4000 or 07867 970986for honest, friendly, expert advice or to arrange a free, no strings Market Appraisal.

The PropertyOmbudsman

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