SHIKSHAYATAN CULTURAL CENTER
Our Distincness Is To Preserve The Vedic Heritage Of India
30 Years Of Amazing Educational and Cultural Musical Journey
New York based Shikshayatan is a premier institute to promote Indian culture and heritage. The purpose of this institute is to disseminate, promote and advance the languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, sewing, painting, calligraphy, literature and cooking of India and to promote and advance generally the culture, heritage and tradition of India for those who wish to trace their ancestry and heritage.
The institute was founded by Mrs. Purnima Desai on the auspicious day of Vijayadashmi- on Thursday, October 20,1988 – the day Lord Rama achieved victory over demon king Ravana. Vijaydashmi is also the day when many families start formal education of their kids. Purnima Desai is the Chief Editor and Publisher of “ABHYUDAYA” magazine in Hindi and English for young and adults – mouth piece of Shikshayatan to give opportunity for creative writing and to learn about India.
Shikshayatan conducts regular and organized classes to impart knowledge about Indian culture, philosophy, languages such as Sanskrit, Hindi, and music -Classical and light, Vocal, Instrumental music (Harmonium, Keyboard, Tabla, Violin Sitar, Flute) and dance.
Purnima herself is an adept vocalist. She is an excellent educator, a producer of music albums and a motivating teacher. She has run Shikshayatan successfully for the last 25 years and has touched the lives of many students. Her mission is to serve humanity and her vision is to have a full fledged institution to spread Indian art & culture.
Shikshayatan has opened its doors to all nationalities to come together for peace , harmony and team spirit. Shikshayatan has celebrated many Indian festivals, birthdays of saints, patriotic leaders and received blessings from spiritual masters like Amma, Sant Morari Bapu, Acharya Mridula Shashtri, Swami Buaji, dignitaries and diplomats – Hillary Clinton, Gary Ackeraman, Dr. Karan Singh etc.
Purnima is a highly spiritual lady with a pure heart. Her strong desire is to seek the Lord, She developed a strong connection with Satguru Yogiraj Gurunath Siddhanath in whom she saw her God.
For many of us living in the United States we readily follow the lifestyle and society expectations so we can be proud Americans.
But how important is it for us to remain embedded and linked to our cultural heritage to define our true identities?
How can we find genuine happiness in maintaining our ancestry while still living the American dream?
Founder & President Purnima A. Desai Lives By This Mission & Vision.
Purnima’s Mission & Vision
Shikshayatan’s Mission: Serve Humanity
Shikshayatan’s Vision: A Full-Fledged Institution
The objective of this institution is to disseminate, promote & teach the values of Indian Culture & Heritage. We teach Indian Languages, Music Meditation, Cultural Courses, Art, Dances, Cooking & Religious Discourses. The institution provides a platform for advancement & progress in an intellectual ability and social skills.
Shikshayatan’s Profile
Shikshayatan’ Logo: Manurbhav
Shikshayatan’s Foundation Day: October 20, 1988 – Vijayadashmi Day
Shikshayatan’s Devalaya Temple: Spiritual Discourses
Shikshayatan’s Goals & Objectives: To Preserve The Vedic Heritage Of India
Shikshayatan’s Title Song: Har Dharati Kaa Rahenewala
Shikshayatan’s Annual Membership: $11.00
Shikshayatan’s Registration: $10.00
Shikshayatan’s Educational Department: Ongoing Regular Classes
Indian Philosophy, Sanskrit/Hindi Language
Vocal, Instrumental And Dance, Yoga
Shikshayatan’s Planning & Organizing Department: Various Events
Shikshayatan’s Publication Department: Magazines & Books
Shikshayatan’s Production Department: Music Albums, Edl Products
Shikshayatan’s Performing Arts Department: Renowned Artists
Shikshayatan’s Public Relations & Publicity Department:
Marketing Department:
Shikshayatan’s Examination Board: Yearly
Shikshayatan’s Special Award Ceremony:
Bhanu-Mani Award For Adults: Artists, Scholars, Writers, Poets Etc.
Saraswati And Nataraj Awards: Students
Shikshayatan’s Competitions: Fancy Dress, Arts And Crafts, Painting, Mehndi, Rangoli, Dance, Vocal, Instrumental, Recitation Of Shlokas Etc.
Shikshayatan’s Links: Various Organizations, Institutions, Associations
Recipient of Proclamation from the Council City of New York 21st November 2015
Shikshayatan Prayers
Chant “Om” Three Times
Om Shri Ganeshaaya Namaha!
Om Shri Saraswataiya Namaha!
Om Shri Gurubhyo Namaha!
Om Purna Madaha Purnamidam Purnaat Purnamudachyate
Purnasya Purnamaadaaya Purna Mevaavashishyate
Om Shantihi! Shantihi! Shantihi!
That Is Perfect This Is Perfect Perfect Comes From Perfect Take Perfect From Perfect
And The Remainder Is Perfect
Om Peace Peace Peace
May God Give Us The Strength To Learn Indian Culture, Indian Philosophy, Indian Languages, Indian Music And Most Of All Make Us Good Human Beings In This Universe
Manurbhav – Manushya Ban – Be Human
Loka Samastaa Sukhinou Bhavantu
Samasta Loka Sukhinou Bhavantu
May God Bless Us All!!!