Here are the interesting reflections of two ex-SCVP students currently studying at University which we would like to share with you.

The write-up of the recent successful SCVP summer camp, in the preparation of which ex-SCVP students Anooj Dodhia, Amee Gudka and Chandni Mehta were instrumental, can be found on our website:www.scvp.org.uk

SCVP Commi

Pratikraman Experience

Being a practical learner, I like to be involved hands on, in anything I do, as it focuses my attention and helps me give my all in what I am doing. This is why the SCVP English pratikraman was well suited to me.

Every year when the festival of Paryushan arrives I love to find some sort of inspiration from the daily bhakti sessions and sermons, but I would usually miss out the main ritual of pratikraman. This is because I don't understand fully what is being performed or recited and so I feel that my energy could be used better concentrating on things that I understand.

This year I decided to attend the English pratikraman led by SCVP teachers, just to see what it was all about, and to my surprise I attended the rest of the days as well. Apart from the majority of the pratikraman being in simple English, the whole ambience of the ritual was different to what I remember as a child. Everyone recited all the sutras and explanations together which created indescribable vibes. Even during Kayotsag (mediating whilst reciting the Navkar Mantra/ Logasse silently), which is usually the part I hesitate the most as I want to rush to finish as quickly as possible, we were given the time to recite them whole heartedly as everyone waited patiently for all to complete.

As part of the Pratikraman, a short meditation was conducted which enabled one to introspect and connect with our inner higher self. There was also an in-depth explanation of the 12 anuvratas (vows) of the shravak (lay person). The detail of what was included really opened my eyes on the subtle ways in which I may have broken these vows.

Paryushan is a set time when we can concentrate on our inner development. The SCVP English pratikraman helped me focus on myself spiritually. I learnt the extent to which repentance should be practiced and recognised the smaller things I do for which I should ask for forgiveness.

I definitely recommend the SCVP English pratikraman for everyone to try next year.

Amee Gudka (University Student - Ex SCVP Student and Youth Teacher)

A Family Visit to Veerayatan 2013

Jai Jinendra.

In early August 2013, my family and I went to the Veerayatan Centre in Bhuj as part of our India trip. It was a long journey and we didn't arrive till late at night. Come morning, we met Sadhvi Sumataji Maharaj who gave us a tour of both the Jakhania and Haripar campuses, showing us where some young children stay, the Engineering and Pharmacy Colleges, and finally the Primary and Secondary Schools. After the tour, we went to the kitchen to serve the children. It was brilliant seeing the smiles on their faces as they got their food.

The next day, I split off from my family and stayed at Veerayatan Centre where I went to the classes in the Primary and Secondary School. I sat in the classes whilst the students fired questions at me asking all about London. I also taught the English alphabet to some children and tutored a few whilst they were doing English comprehension on a story about a rabbit, lion and the moon. In the evening at dinner time, I made my way to the kitchens and helped to make some rotis. The girls, younger than me, were rolling out the rotis faster than I was and I couldn't even make mine round like theirs. Clearly shows where I lack certain skills!

For the four days that we were there, we made it a point to go for the morning prayers. This required a 6am start, which was difficult, but the early shower definitely woke me up! It was nice to see the kids up and ready for the day, praying to the rise of the sun.

It is amazing to see everyone being part of one large family, caring and looking out for one another. It doesn't matter whether they have a difference in religion or language. I myself, along with my family feel privileged to have gained such a phenomenal experience, and we owe our gratitude to Sadhvi Shilapiji Maharaj and Sadhvi Sumetaji Maharaj for welcoming us during our stay on campus.

Jaimini Shah (University Student, Ex SCVP Student and Youth Teacher)