e-Bala Vihar
Schedule
When: September 14th 2024 – May 17th, 2025
Day and Time: Saturday 8:30 am PT/10:30 am CT, 11:30 am ET
Duration: 90 minutes
Contact: ebalavihar@chinmayamission.org
Curriculum
KG – 1st Grade: Bala Ramayana
2nd – 3rd Grade: Sri Hanuman
4th – 5th Grade: Symbolism in Hinduism
6th – 8th Grade: PO Box God / Keys to Success
9th – 12th Grade: Gita for me
Adults: Self Unfoldment
Plus Bhagavad Gita Chanting, Bhajans, and much more!
FAQ
What is e-Bala Vihar?
e-Bala Vihar is a fun and interactive weekly program of a world-renowned age-wise curriculum based on Hindu scriptures under the auspices of Chinmaya Mission West. It takes place virtually conducted by Swamins, Brahmacharins, Sevaks, and Youth of Chinmaya Mission. This program is designed for all kids and youth (KG through Grade 12) along with their parents. It is designed to benefit those without easy access to a physical Bala Vihar location (i.e. those living 50 miles or more away from their nearest Chinmaya Mission).
Why should we join e-Bala Vihar?
Our children ask us many questions about our scriptures, the different forms of God and Goddess, the lives of saints and sages, and even about death. They also face many different situations in life and need strong values and noble ideals to inspire and guide them. Many times we don’t know how to answer their questions in a way that is true and also speaks to their hearts. As adults, we have been distanced from our very own scriptures and have failed to unlock and uncover their gems.
e-Bala Vihar by Chinmaya Mission is a place where children and teens can learn about spirituality through the systematic study of Hindu Scriptures from kindergarten until high school. Learning doesn’t only happen through a live discourse or lecture but through stories, activities, interactive discussions, and even imaginative games!
The best thing about Bala Vihar is that it’s not only for children or teens but it’s for the whole family! While the children and youth are engaged in their classes, the adults are encouraged to have satsanga. This gives parents also the ability to reflect deeply on the wisdom of the scriptures, improve their lives spiritually and emotionally, and connect to their children as they also study and progress.
Our e-Bala Vihar also offers a live common assembly where the family comes together for prayer, bhajans, and the chanting of the Bhagavad Gita. Through this, we connect to our rich cultural heritage passed on for thousands of years, as well as abiding peace, and heightened powers of concentration.
Bala Vihar encourages children and youth to develop, mature, and instill morals through engaging in enjoyable activities. Complete personality development is improved by Bala Vihar on all fronts—physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual.
Which grade will my child be enrolled in for e-Bala Vihar?
Students must register for the grade that they are in during the current 2023-2024 academic year at their respective schools. For example, seniors graduating from high school in Spring 2024 will register as twelfth-grade students in this program.
My child is under 5 years old. Can they still register for e-Bala Vihar?
Classes at this time are offered only for children 5 years (kindergarten) and above.
My child has special needs. Will they be able to partake in camp?
Yes. We welcome all children to e-Bala Vihar. Please fill out the details in the registration form and we will assist as best as we can.
I live outside the United States. Can I register for e-Bala Vihar?
This camp is specifically catered to those in the Americas (United States, Canada, Central, and South America, Trinidad & Tobago and surrounding islands). For other countries, please reach out to your local center for Bala Vihar activities.
I live near a Chinmaya Mission Bala Vihar but an online program is not offered. Can I join e-Bala Vihar?
This e-Bala Vihar is specifically geared towards participants who do not have an in-person Bala Vihar offering near them. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to join the local in-person Bala Vihar.
Are non-chinmaya mission families allowed to attend this e-Bala Vihar?
Yes, and they are encouraged to join all the fun!
How will e-Bala Vihar be conducted?
e-Bala Vihar will be conducted via the Zoom platform and is fully virtual.
Is there a registration deadline?
We strongly encourage early registration as limited spots are available. Registration will close as soon as all spots are filled so please register at the earliest to secure your spot!
How much is the program fee?
The registration fee for the entire program is $500 per family living in the same household. The registration fee is non-refundable.
May I attend the program partially?
The curriculum is based on a instructional plan so students are encouraged to attend the entire program.
Will the sessions be recorded in case I can’t make it to a session?
The sessions will not be available to the students for any reason. Students may inform their teachers before the planned absence to receive any missed class materials.
Can I pay for only some parts of the program?
The fee is for the entire program and cannot be divided by day or week. We do not pro-rate the program.
I have registered for camp but we are unable to join this year. Can I get a refund?
The program fee is non-refundable.
For any other questions please contact ebalavihar@chinmayamission.org.
Coming Soon!
Swami Swaroopananda, Chinmaya Mission Global Head’s message for Bala Vihar Families
Quick Links
Registration Form | 2024-25 e-Bala Vihar Registration Form |
Calendar & Schedule | Click to Download |
Refer A Family | Form Link |
Questions? | Email Us |