NOTE: This page is a legacy page which
was frozen in 2002. For current information go to
http://naha.us
The North American Hindu Association offers two sets of awards: the Dharma
awards and the Karma awards. Both are non-sectarian, non-denominational
Hindu religious awards. You do not have to belong to any group or a temple. Each allows Hindu children to learn the basic fundamentals of Hinduism and
gives parents an opportunity to participate.
Both sets of awards are approved for use by the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.
Hindu children and parents who are not involved with scouting programs are
also welcome and encouraged to participate in these awards.
Curriculum Outline
DHARMA Award:
Dharma
Karma
Incarnation
Bhakti
These four basic Hindu concepts are introduced at a very elementary level. The Bhakti section introduces the concept of worship at a basic level. This program is suitable for pre-teens, grades 3 to 8 (pre-high school).
THE DHARMA/KARMA AWARDS:
1. Dharma
2. Artha
3. Kama
4. Moksha
These are the four canons of Hinduism. They are introduced at a more
advanced level. The structure is more formal and a constant interaction with adults is
emphasized. Several advanced concepts such as Suddha Karma, daily puja,
mantra recitation, scripture reading, and studying are emphasized. Each canon involves a student with an independent project, puja, and other
things to do. The study is comprehensive in nature and allows both student
and mentor to go in depth to the level of their own abilities. This program is suitable for teenager and older, high school and young
adults.
Mentor programs corresponding to the student programs are Dharma Saathi and
Karma Saathi. These are suitable for parents who wish to work with their
children.
Counselor recognitions corresponding to the student programs are: Dharma Bhakta and Karma Bhakta.
Hindu Religious Growth Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is involved in earning the award?
Typically three persons are involved.
1. The Student, who is working toward the Dharma or Karma Award.
2. The Mentor, called Dharma Saathi or Karma Saathi, who is the parent or
guardian working side-by-side with the child. The mentor is considered a
“student” alongside the child. The mentor may elect to complete a workbook
and earn a Saathi award as well.
3. The Counselor who is called Dharma or Karma Bhakta and is responsible for
“guiding” the course.
Typically this is a priest from a temple with which the mentors are
associated. It is a generally accepted doctrine that a priest associated
with a temple should be able to serve as a spiritual counselor. However, a great diversity amongst Hinduism is recognized. We will accept
any person knowledgeable in Hinduism and designated by the priest or a
parent. Although some Hindu religious traditions require a spiritual teacher to be
male and/or Brahmin, for the purposes of this program, anyone may serve as a
counselor. A counselor should be a practicing Hindu, knowledgeable in
Hinduism, and approved by parents. However, a parent acting as Saathi MAY NOT act as Bhakta for the same
student.
How long will it take to complete the program?
Dharma award requirements can usually be completed in about one month. Karma award requirements can usually be completed in six to eight months.
Does each student & Saathi need a workbook?
Yes. Students are required to keep a personal record of their progress.
Materials are copyrighted. Please do not duplicate them. Saathi (parent or
guardian) can elect to enroll in Dharma Saathi or Karma Saathi program and
earn their respective award. If they elect not to enroll, they can simply use the Saathi workbook to
guide their student.
Does each counselor need a manual?
Yes. The Dharma or Karma Bhakta does not have a workbook. It is understood
that the Bhakta has adequate background to guide not only the Dharma or
Karma student but also the Saathi and that he/she does this as a suddha
karma, that is, without expectation of anything in return. In doing so,
he/she is serving as an excellent role model. However, when the students successfully complete the Karma program, they may
choose to present a certificate of recognition and/or a Dharma or Karma Bhakta pin. Both recognitions may be presented at an appropriate ceremony.
How do I order the recognition items? Recognition items are ordered upon completion of the program. An order form
will be sent with the workbooks.
Do I have to belong to a temple or a Hindu religious group?
No. These
programs are non-sectarian in nature.
How do I order Awards?
If ordering for multiple students in different households,
please copy this form and complete for each student.
Date: ________________________
Supplies to be sent to:
Note: Must be an adult.
If other than a parent,
please specify relationship _________________
Name____________________________________________________
First Middle Initial Last Name
Address ______________________________________________
City ______________________________________________
State ___________ Zip ________________________
Student Information:
Please PRINT
Name ____________________________________________________
First Middle Initial Last Name
If different from above,
Address ______________________________________________
City ______________________________________________
State ___________ Zip ________________________
Ph: Home _____________________________
Work _____________________________
Fax _____________________________
E-mail _____________________________
Age: __________ Grade: _________
Scout Level, if applicable
______________________________________
Father’s Name ___________________________
Mother’s Name ___________________________
Who will act as a Saathi: _______________
For additional students working with the same Saathi, please provide the
above information for each student on a separate sheet. There are two award series.
Dharma Series: Suitable for pre-teens, grades 3 to 8 (pre-high school).
Karma Series: Suitable for teenager and older, high school and young
adults.
Please select an appropriate series
- Students must be in the appropriate grade when they start. Karma students
may not go backwards and earn Dharma award.
Quantity Price
Total
Dharma Series ______ 21.00 _______
[Contains 3 books as follows: Dharma Workbook, Dharma Saathi Workbook &
Dharma Bhakta Manual]
Karma Series ______ 21.00 _______
[Contains 3 books as follows: Karma Workbook, Karma Saathi Workbook & Karma
Bhakta Manual]
Additional Workbooks
(for students using the same Saathi and Bhakta)
Please specify ______ 10.00 _______
Other Items
Hindu wedding ceremony ______ 1.00 _______
Hindu calendar dates ______ 1.00 _______
Meaning of OM ______ 1.00 _______
Explanation of Bindi ______ 1.00 _______
Awards for Display or Collection:
[ ] Dharma Badge for Boy Scouts
[ ] Dharma Pin for Girl Scouts
[ ] Karma Badge for Boy Scouts
[ ] Karma Pin for Girl Scouts
[ ] Dharma Saathi Pin
[ ] Karma Saathi Pin
[ ] Dharma Bhakta Pin
[ ] Karma Bhakta Pin
Total number of awards ________ 12.00 _______
Postage & Handling
included for regular US Mail.
For Priority Mail, please add $ 3.00 _______
For Overnight Mail, please add $ 12.00 _______
Check # _______ Total Enclosed _______
Mail to: North American Hindu Association
9803 Goldfinch Ct Saline, MI 48176-9191
Phone #: (612) 470-NAHA (612-470-6242) email: info@naha.org
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