Surya Academy, a Canadian school of Indian Philosophy and Culture based in the GTA marks its first anniversary this summer 2008. Since opening on the Summer Solstice in June 2007, the Academy has held a number of activities on a variety of subjects across the GTA.

Lectures, workshops and storytelling events have been held as ways to promote the culture and heritage of the ancient South Asian land. The year, according to Surya Academy Director Anil Persaud, has been a fast and eventful one. Partnerships with organizations such as Richmond Hill’s Canadian Museum of Hindu Civilization (CMOHC), Toronto’s Vaastu.net and Devi Mandir in Pickering have helped Surya to establish a solid foundation in its first year of operations.

The occasion of Shravani Upaakarm is generally celebrated in the month of August. There is a synonymous celebration called Raksha Bandhan that is also celebrated at this time. This article is meant to define, distinguish and add clarity between these two occasions. Among the many mythological legends of Hinduism, we learned from Nirnai-Sindhu of one such occasion where the control of the heavenly regions was won in a battle between the Asuras and the Devatas. Lord Indra, as the lord of the heavens sought advice and counsel from his preceptor, Brihaspati.

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman Ji, the symbol of strength and energy.

Hanuman is worshipped for his unyielding devotion to Rama and is remembered for his selfless dedication to the God. Hanuman is considered the living embodiment of the Karma Yogi (one whose meditation and devotion are demonstrated through hard work or service).

He said "I am a humble messenger of Sri Rama. I have come here to serve Rama, to do His work. By the command of Lord Rama, I have come here. I am fearless by the Grace of Lord Rama. I am not afraid of death. I welcome it if it comes while serving Lord Rama."

In return for his unconditional love, Lord Rama granted him everlasting life. He promised that he would be worshipped alongside Rama and that his idol would be placed next to his.