Chinmaya Mission San Diego (CMSD) was inaugurated on January 28, 2001 in the presence of Swami Ishwarananda, Acharya of Chinmaya Mission Southern California. The lamp of Chinmaya that was lit with thirty five children and about fifty adults is now leading the way to spiritual growth for over hundred and eighty families with more than two hundred and thirty Bala Vihar® children and Youth. Various programs are conducted throughout the week and the weekend for children, youth and adults. Programs include Bala Vihar/Yuva Kendra, Bhagavad Gita Chanting, Language Classes, Chinmaya Dhvani (Youth Choir), Adult Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita Classes, Adult Study Groups, Devi Groups and Vedic Chanting. CMSD also participates in Community Outreach programs ranging from providing food and clothing for the homeless shelter, to presentations and symposiums on Hinduism at schools, interfaith organizations and other interested groups.