Vivekananda Family Camp Blends Fun with Spiritual and Cultural Activities

The week-long residential VHPA Family Camp has been run successfully since 1979. This year was no exception. Nestled on the shores of Thorndike Pond, in the shadow of Mount Monadnock, in Dublin, NH, children and adults gathered together to spend a week filled with spiritual growth, cultural enrichment, and outdoor adventure.

Over 75 children and adults spent a week engaged in a diverse range of activities designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. The camp featured daily yoga sessions, arts and crafts workshops, education and discussion classes, waterfront activities such as swimming, paddle-boating, kayaking, or simply basking in the sun. Mornings started with a wake-up call at 7 AM, followed by daily Yoga sessions. Evenings were filled with Indian games, a cultural program where everyone showcased their talents with dances, songs, skits, musical performances and many more, all in a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere. There was a daily Aarti, where all rejuvenated their spirit. The Camp Song, a favorite with all, was sung with gusto by young and old alike. Even first-time campers had learned the song by the end of camp.

The theme of the camp was Ramayan. Children participated in a daily hour-long education class, with fascinating stories and stimulating discussions based on the Ramayan. The highlight of the education program was the scavenger hunt-type activity on Friday, where groups of children traversed the entire campsite and showed off their newly learned knowledge of Ramayan. They had to answer questions, which led them to their next location. One day, the children re-traced the journey taken by Shri Ram, Devi Sita and Lakshman Bhaiya. They ‘visited’ Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Panchvati, Kishkindha and Lanka, and learned about what life was like in ancient times, and what those places are like today. While going through the deep dark woods, they even had to fend off a few Rakshasas, who threatened to harm them. But Shri Ram came to their rescue, and they were able to pass unharmed.

Not to be outdone, the adults had their own education and social programs, with sessions such as retirement planning, end of life care, first aid and wound care and discussions on Ramayan, Sixteen Samskaras, etc. There was a lively quiz on Ramayan for adults, which brought out the child in all the adults.

A highlight of the camp was the hike to Pack Monadnock, where campers were transported by school bus to the trailhead. After a fulfilling hike, participants enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at the summit, with lunch and refreshments provided in drawstring bags. The panoramic views and shared camaraderie made for an unforgettable day.

Another highlight was the Campfire, with joyous gatherings around the fire, where participants enjoyed s’mores, sang songs, and participated in the symbolic burning of an effigy of Ravan, fostering a sense of community and tradition. The week culminated in vibrant dance sessions, including Garba, Sanedo and Bhangra, which were enthusiastically enjoyed by both young and old alike.

The culinary offerings at the camp were a treat in themselves, with delicious Indian cuisine served for dinner, and a mix of Italian and Mexican dishes provided for lunch. Each night ended with the comforting ritual of milk and cookies, while nightly security ensured a safe and peaceful environment for all.

Overall, the Vivekananda Family Camp was a resounding success, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, physical activity, and spiritual reflection. Participants left with cherished memories and a strengthened sense of community, eagerly looking forward to next year’s camp in the second week of August 2025.