HSS USA
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) USA is a voluntary, non-profit, social and cultural organization(1). Sangh, as the organization is popularly known, aims to organize the Hindu community in order to preserve, practice and promote Hindu ideals and values. HSS conducts structured programs of regular athletic and academic activities to develop strong character and leadership skills in its members (known as swayamsevaks for men and sevikas for women), emphasizing values such as self-discipline, self-confidence and a spirit of selfless service (seva) for humanity. We encourage maintaining Hindu cultural identity in harmony with the larger community. Sangh is inspired by the idea that the whole world is one family and conducts activities across the United States in order to spread this message widely. Sangh in the United States started in 1989 and today has over 100 weekly meeting centers (Shakhas) across USA.

Shakha
Each chapter of HSS is known as Shakha - a weekly program for the entire family. While the kids enjoy learning in the balagokulam, youth and adults also participate in activities such as games, songs, discussions, and lectures on Hindu culture. We strongly emphasize the physical, intellectual and spiritual growth of each individual and also promote a sense of discipline. Children’s program in the shakha is called Balagokulam.

What is Balagokulam?
Gokulam is the place where Lord Krishna’s magical childhood days were spent. It was here that his divine powers came to light. Every child has that spark of divinity within. Balagokulam is a forum for children to discover and manifest that divinity. It will enable Hindu children in the US to appreciate their cultural roots and learn Hindu values. In the Balagokulams, children learn about their Hindu heritage. They have fun playing games with the other kids. A strong emphasis is also laid on developing leadership qualities and becoming confident representatives of Hindu Dharma. This is done through weekly planned activities, which include games, yoga, stories, bhajans (songs), shlokas (prayers), and arts and crafts.

Children of what age are allowed in Balagokulam?
Children of all ages (preferably 5 and up) can participate in Shakha/Balagokulam. No one is denied entrance to the Balagokulam center, regardless of age or anything else

What language is used as the means of communication in Balagokulam?
English is used to communicate in each Balagokulam. The shlokas, prayers, are mostly in Sanskrit language. Songs are mostly in Hindi and sometimes in English, Sanskrit or any other Indian language.

Do you teach regional language in Balagokulam?
We always encourage children to speak in their mother tongue at home and with friends from similar background. We strongly believe that Bhasha (language), Bhusha (dressing) and Aachar (manners) make and sustain our Sanskriti (culture). Since children at Balagokulam come from different regions, they have different mother-tongues. Learning one more common Indian language (example Hindi) in addition to their mother-tongue is sometimes hard on them. Hence we have English as the primary means of communication in Balagokulam. At many Balagokulams, a separate session is conducted after Balagokulam to teach Indian language(s) provided there are volunteers to conduct the sessions.

How do I become a member?
Please call 973-860-2HSS or send email 

“Once a swayamsevak*, always a swayamsevak.” There are no fees for the Balagokulam activities.