Guru Vandana - Teachers Appreciation Event

MAHWAH, NJ — The Mahwah chapter of Hindu Education Foundation(HEF) - a Project by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh(HSS) recently conducted a Guru Vandana, or teacher appreciation event, to honor Mahwah School District Teachers.

Hindu American students in Mahwah were able to invite their teachers to express their gratitude, respect, and reverence for the teaching and guidance they receive from their teachers.The event took place at the Mahwah Library on May 3rd, 2025.

Teachers from Lenape Meadows Elementary School, Joyce Kilmer School, Ramapo Ridge Middle School and Mahwah Highschool attended the event.Teacher Appreciation Week, celebrated in the first week of May, honors the vital role of educators. In Hindu culture, teachers are revered as Gurus—mentors and guides. To celebrate this tradition, Hindu Education Foundation organizes Guru Vandana, meaning “reverence for the teacher.” This annual event allows students to express gratitude through traditional rituals, blending ancient values with modern education.

The Guru Vandana began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, which is considered auspicious in Hindu tradition. The students then entertained their teachers by performing Yoga, Skit about Sage Patanjali and classical Indian dance.Each student performed the "Guru Puja" or teacher’s worship, by applying Tilak (red dot applied on the forehead), performing thanks and worship to the teachers and sought their blessings by touching their feet.

Teachers later described the event as "amazing, respectful, and very well organized." They also thanked HEF and HSS for demonstrating the importance of teachers in the community and society and praised the event's efforts.

HSS is a 501(c)(3) voluntary non-profit cultural organization with over 250 chapters across the United States. HSS organizes service activities and community outreach projects to promote discipline, self-confidence, teamwork and the spirit of selflessness.

Learn more: https://hefus.org