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Akshaya in Chicago

Since its formation in 1994, Akshaya members have been meeting each month in Chicago at the Hindu Temple in Lemont to discuss Hindu philosophy and way of life. Special emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of maintaining the Hindu way of life in America. Akshaya will hold its first meeting of the year on January 30.

Akshaya is dedicated to the spiritual development of people in their 20s and 30s. The group's name in Sanskrit means 'perennial.'

Among the highlights of last year's events:

A Practical Guide to puja for the Beginner Devotee (Course 101!) focused on the basics of a ritualistic puja an individual can perform at home. A handout with details of Sankalpam, ingredients and steps of worship was also provided to the attendees. The program began with a theoretical explanation of the sequence and significance of various acts in a puja, followed by a practical session of performing a puja itself.

Hindu Glossary featured a presentation by Dr Sudha Rao on the four indispensable objectives of a Hindu life: dharma, artha, kama and moksha.

Each event includes a guest lecture or group discussion of a religious issue. Members have an opportunity to ask questions of speakers and of their peers. This exchange is expected to deepen an individual's understanding of the Hindu religion and gain insights about cultivating inner life.

The meetings also include a puja, often with temple priest sharing the meaning of the rituals and actions that are performed. The puja is followed by lunch, when members can reflect on the topic of the day and also socialize.

Akshaya seeks to help its members expand their understanding of the Hindu religion, its philosophy, scriptures, traditions and customs. It also seeks to involve members in Hindu temple activities and to groom new leaders.

Akshaya meetings are held on the fourth Sunday of every month at 11.30 am at The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, 10915 Lemont Road, Lemont IL 60439; (630) 972-0300.

For more information about the next month's Akshaya program, contact the Akshaya co-ordinators:

Raghu Thunga; 847/548-9508 rthunga@aol.com; Rekha Rao: 773/525-9022 rekharao88@hotmail.com; and Anshu Mittal: 847/424-9435 amittal@nwu.edu.

Information about activities can be gathered from www.ramatemple.org/highlights.

If you would like to post any information about forthcoming events or community happenings, please email the details to bettypais@aol.com

Information and photographs can also be mailed to Betty Pais at 87-52 108th Street, 2nd Floor, Richmond Hill, NY 11418-2229, USA.

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