By Ujawala Bhat
HOUSTON: Chinmaya Mission Houston (CMH), founded in 1982 by resident Acaryas Shri Gaurang Nanavaty and Smt. Darshana Nanavaty, is a vibrant branch of Chinmaya Mission dedicated to sharing the wisdom of Vedanta and supporting individuals of all backgrounds in their spiritual and personal growth as positive contributors to society. For over four decades, it has provided Hindu value-based education to children from Pre-K through Grade 12 through structured Bala Vihar classes.
Saturday, May 16th, was a very special day. It was a celebration of learning for the graduating Class of 2026, who have been coming to Chinmaya Mission week after week to learn about their culture and Hindu scriptures, instil respect for their heritage, make them comfortable in their own skin and guide them as they grow up amidst diverse cultures and an ever-changing society.
The ceremony began with the Graduating Class of 2026 and their teachers gathering at the Chinmaya Smrti foyer to offer flowers at the Prathima of Pujya Swami Chinmayananda. They then proceeded to Saumyakasi Sivalaya for a puja and divine blessings. After the puja, the graduates walked to Smrti Hall, led by their teacher and priest carrying a Purnakumbha while chanting the Sikshavalli of the Taittiriya Upanishad.
As the beautiful music from the orchestra team filled the air, the graduating students entered Smrti Hall. It was a heartwarming moment for the parents of all 51 graduates, their families, teachers, and well-wishers to witness these young graduates, as they walked to their seats in an organized manner, reflecting the discipline and grace upheld at Chinmaya Mission Houston.
The emcee commenced the program by welcoming everyone and inviting Acarya Gaurang Uncle to the stage to light the lamp. Acarya Gaurang Uncle then lit the lamp and, seated on the vyas peet, delivered the convocation address. His discourse highlighted the ancient Vedic graduation milestone known as ‘Samavartana,’ as described in the Taittiriya Upanishad, where the acharya (teacher) instructs graduating students on a core set of principles to follow in life.
“Never err from Truth, never err from Dharma; never neglect your well-being and your prosperity; never neglect Svadhyaya (Self-study) and Pravachan (listening to discourses).”
He reminded them of the Chinmaya pledge to give more to society than they take, and to become positive contributors through meaningful choices while staying grounded in a world increasingly driven by appearance and superficiality.
The emcee then introduced the chief guest, Dr. Milan Vaishnav, Director of the South Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a Chinmaya Mission Houston alumnus. A noted scholar of India’s political economy and public policy, his journey reflects the impact of value-based education. His presence inspired the graduating Class of 2026, showing how cultural roots and professional excellence can go hand in hand.
Dr. Milan shared four simple lessons for graduates: read widely and go beyond what feels comfortable, stay humble by remembering no one has all the answers, serve others without expecting anything in return, and always value the support and sacrifices of parents and teachers. He shared personal stories, anecdotes making his message practical and easy for the graduating students to connect with as they move forward in life.
The graduation commenced with each student receiving a trophy engraved with a quote from Pujya Swami Chinmayananda: “Always learn to put your mind where your hands are working.” As names were called, graduates stepped forward and lit ceremonial lamps, symbolizing commitment to spiritual values and lifelong learning.
A presentation in the background highlighted student achievements, college plans, CMH experiences, and favorite quotes of Swami Chinmayananda.
In keeping with ancient Vedic tradition, the graduating class offered “Guru Dakshina” to their teachers through Gaurang Uncle as a symbol of gratitude and respect. The orchestra then played the melodious congratulatory song “Abhinandanam,” creating an emotional and joyful moment for families and guests.
The graduates followed this by reaffirming their commitment to service and respect through the Chinmaya Mission Pledge, bringing the ceremony to a meaningful close. The teachers, guests, and families were then treated to a sumptuous lunch hosted by the graduating families.
The graduation ceremony was the result of weeks of careful preparation by volunteers, making it a beautiful and memorable experience for the graduating families, including mine.
As a parent of a graduate, I am deeply grateful to Chinmaya Mission Houston for its role in our family’s journey after moving from India to the United States. It was important for us that our children stay connected to their culture and values, and CMH made this possible. Through the weekly classes, they learned Hindu traditions and values while growing up in a new environment, helping them stay grounded, culturally aware, and confident in their identity.
For more information about Chinmaya Mission Houston, Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya, and its activities, please visit www.chinmayahouston.org, www.saumyakasi.org or call temple 281 568
1690 or Jay Deshmukh 832 541 0059 or Bharati Sutaria 281-933-0233.
Photo by Bharath Rao.
