annual newsletter published by: shree vanza gnati …gayatri mantra is a prayer to the sun god to...

ANNUAL NEWSLETTERPublished by:

Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal P.O.Box 38585Dar Es Salaam

Tanzania


Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal P.O.Box 38585,

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.Website: http://www.vanzatz.org

E-mail: [email protected] 6 January 2018

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Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal P.O.Box 38585Dar Es Salaam

Tanzania


Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal P.O.Box 38585,

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.Website: http://www.vanzatz.org

E-mail: [email protected]

Issue 6 January 2018

vMessage from the Editorial Team Management Team for the Year 2017

We seek blessings from :

Mata Hingraj Guru Gopal lal

Dear Reader,

Thank you so much for all the love, support, and for being part of our wonderful journey. We appreciate your commitment in helping us accomplish the most throughout the year.

Let’s take a quick flashback to see how great 2017 was. We had remarkable events, charities, devotional ceremonies and sports tournaments. All of which was possible to achieve through the divine blessings of Hingraj Mata and Gurugopal Lal.

As we grow to unite amongst ourselves and the people in the society, we would like to take this opportunity to thank the sponsors, advertisers and all the contributions received in preparing ourselves for the Diamond Jubilee event which will take place in Easter 2018.

We hope you like the Vanza Life edition for this year. For further enquires please contact us at [email protected]

Happy reading!

Editorial Team.

Chairman - Mr. Vimal V. Rathod.Vice Chairman - Mr. Jiten R. Borkhataria.Secretary - Mr. Anoop M. Rathod.Assistant Secretary - Mr. Hitesh J. Chohan.Treasurer - Mr. Jiten M. Parmar.Assistant Treasurer - Mr. Kamal M. Davadra.IP Chairman - Mr. Bhavin J. Borkhataria. Members: -Mr. Bunty L. Parmar.Mrs. Mamta Pratap.Ms. Pooja Borkhataria.Mrs. Pooja Jethwa.Mrs. Poonam Rathod.Mrs. Prity Borkhataria.Mr. Ritesh M. Parmar.Mr. Sachin L. Parmar.Mrs. Smruti Parmar.Mr. Vishal S. Pragji.Mr. Dipesh S. Jethwa Co-Members: -Mr. Satish C. VanzaMr. Shirish B. Rathod. Trustees: -Mr. Jayantilal D. Borkhataria.Mrs. Lilaben Chohan.Mr. Vrajlal N. Parmar. IT Team: -Mr. Hitesh J. Chohan.Mr. Vimal V. Rathod.

Contributors: -Mr. Bhavesh Govind.Mr. Bunty L. Parmar.Mrs. Darshana Jethwa.Mrs. Poonam Rathod.Mrs. Krupa Parmar.Mrs. Pooja Jethwa. Mr. Brijesh N. Bhadresa.

Editorial Board: -Ms. Deepali Vanza.Ms. Dhiraal Parmar. Mrs. Heena Chohan.Mrs. Shweta Chohan.Mrs. Bhavika Parmar.Ms. Meera Rathod.Ms. Pooja Borkhataria.Ms. Komal Parmar.Ms. Janki Borkhataria.Ms. Pal Bhadreshwara.

Front Cover Artwork by Ms. Payal Borkhataria

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Message from the Chairman

Dear Gnati Bandhus,

On behalf of Management and Respected Trustees of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal – Dar es Salaam, I wish you all Happy New Year 2018.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all Vanza Bandhus for giving me full support for the second year without forgetting my management team and trustees.

I would also like to thank all the donors who have contributed in various Gnati’s fund raising activities. I would also like to congratulate in advance the Organising Committee of Easter Sports Festival 2018 and Diamond Jubilee Celebration (75 Years) of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal – Dar es Salaam with all its departments for their hard work in preparations of the events during Easter holidays in year 2018.

I request for forgiveness for anything said or done wrong during my Chairmanship and looking forward for same support to management Committee of year 2018.

With this, I would also like to invite you all for Diamond Jubilee Celebrations (75 Years) of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal – Dar es Salaam and Easter Sports Festival 2018 in Dar es Salaam from 30th Mar 2018 to 02nd Apr 2018 (During Easter Holidays).

Once again, I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year.

Vimal Vinod Rathod.Chairman - 2017.

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Issue 6 January 2018Issue 6 January 2018

“ Be somebody nobody thought you could be ”

Events 2017

Food Mela

The New Year started with a fantastic Food Mela festival organized by Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal on the 25th February 2017. Each stall had an irresistible aroma of mouthwatering vegetarian meals, sweet desserts and fizzy soft drinks. Food Mela has always been part of our successful events with the means of uniting people from different communities to come and enjoy a diverse taste of luscious meals. There was of course both food and entertainment.

Varieties of food were displayed on the tables and the smell of the food made our stomach grumble with hunger. DJ kept the music rolling while everyone enjoyed the food.

With great preparations from our gnati badhus, we received plenty of positive feedbacks from our guests. And most importantly, we all enjoyed serving them whole heartedly. Having an approximate of 200 people present in this event, we look forward to continue this trend of offering the best and satisfying meals in the future.

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“ Your only limit is you. ”

Cancer Hospital Charity Event - written by Vimal Rathod

On 2nd April 2017, Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal organized a trip to visit Ocean Road Cancer Hospital to donate food items for charity. According to World Health Organization (WHO), Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases affecting a number of people worldwide and causing more than 8 million of deaths a year. Tanzania sees an estimated of 35,000 new cancer cases every year. [1]

Ms. Sahida (one of the Ocean Road Cancer Hospital Member) asked us to form 3 team each of 10people for each floor. Each team started from 3rd floor to 1st floor to help her distribute very well packed food containers and other items to each and every patient in the ward.

The food was prepared in the Hospital’s kitchen for which gnati bandhus contributed. Apart from beans and rice, we were told that we can also donate extra necessities. The items that were purchased apart from beans and rice were mango juice, bananas, bottles of water, cakes, toothbrush and toothpaste.

By the time we completed distributing, it was already 12:30pm. We were recommended by Ms. Sahida to give away the remaining items to the Children ward at Muhimbili Hospital. Few of our members volunteered to go and deliver the items there.

We received enough funds from all gnati bandhus for this event and we were privileged to get this opportunity to bless those who are in need of our love, care and support. We wish them a speedy and healthy recovery.

Events 2017 (contd...)

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Source: [1] http://tanzaniacancercare.org


Satyanarayan Katha

On 20th May 2017, Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal organized Satyanarayan Katha whereby 11 Yajmans were present to perform puja for this auspicious ceremony. Maharaj Mehul Oza narrated the tale of how Shree Satyanarayan’s miracles and blessings are bestowed abundantly when we ask for his help.

The universal law of free will states that, “Whenever we ask for something with unshakeable faith, without any worries on how God will work on it, we will receive exactly what we’ve asked for.” The same was discussed when the King was longing for children but was only blessed after asking for it. It

was his faith that brought bundles of joy. The King performed Shree Satyanarayan puja to thank the Lord for blessing him and his family.

In today’s world of economic crisis, people have been complaining a lot about the economy falling apart, business running down, unemployment, etc. These problems are merely physical setbacks. If we keep complaining about the problems, the problems will always remain however if we speak positive statements, work on solutions and believe the problems are getting sorted then the problems will definitely be sorted.

Thus the scriptures tell us how negative statements produce negative impacts. How your ego can destroy your faith when you keep feeding it with negativity. The King wanted a child thus he prayed faithfully even during the times when he felt low. He didn’t lose hope and give up by saying “I will never have children.” Instead, he was positive and in line with his faith. The lesson here is to feed positive statements so that you too can enjoy the fruits of your manifestations just like how the King did!

The puja was successfully completed with true guidance received from God, Maharaj and the Volunteers. It was pure bliss to attain such a wonderful experience from this Katha. We encourage more gnati bandhus to attend and experience love and peace through upcoming religious ceremonies.

“ Tough times never last but tough people do ” - Robert H. Schuller

Events 2017 ( Contd... )

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74th Sthapna Din (Foundation Day)

Sthapna Din was organized on 27th May 2017 at Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal whereby gnati bandhus engaged in devotional practices for the 5 Kund Gayatri Havan guided by the Gayatri Parivaar team. The respected chairman, Mr. Vimal Rathod and his family were the main Yajmans that initiated the ceremony. It is well known that Gayatri Hawan assists to remove all of your miseries and protects you from harm. It brightens your intellect and helps you gain peace.

Every year, Gayatri Parivaar team provides us with their continuous support in guiding us with this

Hawan. They also offer devotional practices at home, assisting in growing herbal gardens and providing additional teachings should one wish to be a part of their team.

Gayatri mantra is a prayer to the Sun God to purify our intellect and enlighten our soul with the light of God. Although there’s no restricted time to chant Gayatri mantra however in order to realize the benefits of this mantra, it’s best to regularly chant thrice a day before the sun rises, at noon and when the sun sets.

According to Sanathan Dharma, Yagna is one of the oldest rituals done in front of a sacred fire that involves chanting mantras, providing offerings and inviting the Devas to bless us abundantly. It has been 25 years since Yagna is being conducted at big temple, every single day. Gnati bandhus are requested to be part of this Yagna and experience good health and peace in our beings.

The primary purpose of Yagna is to nourish the Devas (it also includes your senses). When Yagnas are not performed according to the procedure, it may fail to produce the intended results. Hence, always perform Yagna through the correct guidance received.

After the completion of Gayatri Hawan, gnati bandhus recited Hanuman Chalisa and had delicious dinner thereafter.

We are fortunate to be part of this auspicious ceremony and we look forward to spiritually elevate ourselves through this medium.

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‘Your life is your story. Write well. Edit often’


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“ Work until your idols become your rivals. ”

Shravan Maas Rudra Abhishek

Shravan Maas is considered to be the most auspicious month of the year as the devotees surrender themselves in faithful practices to strengthen their connection with God and ultimately attain salvations. Performing puja in Shravan Maas with true love and devotion, protects and heals us from ill effects of the planetary shifts, Pitru dosh (malefic effects) and Kundali dosh (natal chart).

Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal had organised the Rudra Abhishek Program and was conducted every Monday during the Shravan Maas, from 24th July to 21st August 2017. The puja was conducted under the guidance of Maharaj Mehul Oza with a maximum number of 11 Yajmans present to perform the Abhishek.

This year, the last Monday of the month had been a very special Month due to its rare combination of Shravan - Somvati - Amaas and it was very well observed by Maharaj Mehul Oza. (Monday of Shravan month that’s dedicated to appease our ancestors).

It is believed that in this month, Lord Shiva drank the Halahal poison during the churning of the ocean and thereafter known as Neelkanth; which symbolizes his blue throat. As Lord Shiva drank the poison, devotees should also face their problems by manifesting love, sympathy, courage and bravery. Thus it is not advisable to utilize Tramba no Karas (Copper Pot) for the Abhishek as the milk turns poisonous after a good number of hours.

The Yajmans were performing the cleansing process of the Shivling and Ganpati murti. The purpose of this cleansing is not solely for washing and decorating Shivling and Ganpati murti, but it’s intended to wash away the negativity and decorate ourselves with valuable gems of love, faith and peace.

Worshipping Lord Shiva by Abhishek is one of the oldest practice according to Shiv Purana. None of the ingredients go wasted as this religious practice is meant to cleanse ourselves from negativity. The Lord himself is naturally pure and cleansed.

There are various ingredients used during Rudra Abhishek. Each ingredient benefits us during Abhishek. Milk gives us long life. Honey removes sorrows and problems. Ghee gets rid of illness. Panchamryut gives us wealth. Curd gives us good and blessed children. Gingerly Oil increases our knowledge. Sandalwood paste increases luck and good health. Turmeric powder increases wellness. Rice powder frees us from debts. Coconut water increases overall wellness of family. Sugarcane juice gives good health and removes enmity. Vibhuti gives us better job prospects. Lemon gets rid of fear of death. Khajur destroys internal and external enemies. Mango juice destroys long ailments.

The media contradicts the practice of Hinduism by stating the importance of the wasted materials to the underprivileged. It’s important for us to realize the fact that donations can be provided to the necessitous however in order to establish dharma and faith in Hinduism, these religious practices had been done by our ancestors and it will continue in many generations to come.

After the puja, gnati badhus were served with Prasad and Farar for dinner. Rudra Abhishek was a fruitful experience to us all. Gnati bandhus were uplifted with bliss throughout the ceremony.



“ Work hard, Dream big ”

Hanuman Chalisa

The aim of this program is to cultivate faith in Hinduism as well as strongly connect with God. Since the program is organized on a monthly basis, it is strongly advised to dedicate a few hours to chant Hanuman Chalisa with us. Each verse of Hanuman Chalisa is powerful and has its own importance. Reciting Hanuman Chalisa wards off lower energies, gives you courage to overcome any obstacle in your life and ensures that you’re safe and protected at all times.

Lord Hanuman received many boons from deities for his long life hence he is immortal and will continue to live until Satyayuga. None of the scriptures mention the details about Lord Hanuman’s death. Even today it is believed Lord Hanuman is still alive and living at Himalaya.

Chanting Hanuman Chalisa congregationally creates strong and high vibrations hence it is advised that devotees unite and pray altogether with true faith as it increases spiritual growth of the temple. This program encourages people of all ages and communities to set aside their differences and walk through the journey towards the path of devotion. After the prayers, devotees are served with Prasad and Farar for dinner.

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“ Be stubborn about your goals, and flexible about your methods ”

Charity Walk

On 30th July 2017, Gnati bandhus were invited to be a part of the Charity Walk Program which was organized in collaboration with Shree Vageshwari Soni Samaj and Lion’s Club. The collected funds will be secured for 2018 Mega Easter Sports Festival and 75 Years Diamond Jubilee Celebration.

It’s the second time we’re collaborating with Shree Vageshwari Soni Samaj and Lion’s Club for Charity Walks. Their presence adds a colorful charm to the event. Apart from Navratri celebrations with Shree Vageshwari Soni Samaj, we hope to pursue more events with them in future endeavors.

A 7a.m. morning walk was a fruitful experience. We started off from the premises of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal, all the way around Gym Khana, and then back to the premises. The morning freshness was truly revitalizing for each of us. We were served with hot Indian breakfast upon reaching the premises.

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“ Don’t call it a dream, call it a plan ”

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Pran Pratistha Din

Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal celebrated Pran Prathistha Din on 30th August 2017. Gnati bandhus were gathered for the morning Hawan led by Yajman Mr. Rasiklal Dayalji Borkhataria and family. Later in the evening, Gnati bandhus performed the Dhwaja hosting ceremony followed by a general meeting.

During the general meeting, it was discussed that the current constitution is very old and requires a lot of changes hence the management stepped forward to update the constitution with the new changes. Having said that, a Constitution Committee was formed and led by Mr. Bhavin Parmar along with the team members: Mr. Chetan Borkhataria, Mr. Dharmendra Parmar, Mr. Harish Pratap, Mr. Kamal Davadra and Mr. Vinod Rathod. A draft was created and shared to all Gnati bandhus and they were all very happy with the new amendments.

In addition, the management brought forward great ideas to help us benefit the most of the community services. A security group was created area wise for gnati bandhus residing in a given area. The sole purpose of this group is to convey any messages of threat, informative alerts and any precautions or measures for our safety. Another proposed idea by the management is to RSVP (Répondez S’il Vous Plaît, i.e. Please Respond) any event before a given deadline. This is to reduce any wastage of food/materials for the event. It will be planned and executed from the year 2018.

It was a great pleasure for everyone to know about Mr. Shirish Rathod and family’s visit to India – Chotila temple of Hingraj Mata whereby, the Maharaj of Chotila temple had offered him sandalwood powder which he had received from Hingraj Mata temple in Pakistan – Baluchistan, and also a beautiful red chundri.

Mr. Shirish Rathod and his wife Mrs. Bina Rathod adorned the chundri to the picture frame of Hingraj Mata in the Gnati premises, and initiated the Aarti ceremony guided by Maharaj Mehul Oza. After the Aarti, we were blessed to be anointed with the sandalwood paste. Gnati badhus were served with Prasad and had a delicious dinner thereafter.


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“ They told me I couldn’t, that’s why I did ”

Inter Community Antakshri Competition

Shree Hindu Mahila Mandal had organized Inter Community Antakshri Competition on 12th July 2017. Participants of 10 Hindu communities were present and ready to compete. Mrs. Madhya Borkhataria and Mrs. Hasmita Makwana represented Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal.

The competition was a very good experience for them and they were very proud to represent Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal. Although they didn’t win, they were happy to be part of it and they sure did enjoy it thoroughly.

The community that had won the first prize were Shree Punjab Mandir, followed Sorathiya Prajapati Samaj in the 2nd position and 3rd Shree Navnat Vanik Mahajan. According to Mrs. Hasmita Makwana, winning isn’t a sole purpose; it’s a matter of being a part of the competition and enjoying the ambience. “My partner, Madhya ben supported me well. Whenever we get the opportunity to represent Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal, we’ll happily do so.”

Source and Photo Credits: @ShreeHinduMahilaMandalDarEsSalaam

Navratri Raffle Draw Event The Hindu Council of Tanzania (HCT) – Suraksha Tanzania collaborated with Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal and Vyamshala Volleyball Team to present a Navratri Grand Raffle draw on 7th October 2017 at Patel Brotherhood.

The raffle draw took place on the Sharad Utsav event, which was also organized by Suraksha Tanzania. It was a great opportunity for Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal to serve other Hindu communities as well.

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VGM participation


“ The best way to get something done is to begin ”

Kaajal Oza Vaidhya Talk Show in DSM ACCA career by Dhiraal Chandarana

The Hindu Council of Tanzania arranged for Mrs. Kaajal Oza Vaidhya’s visit and stay in Dar Es Salaam. The talk show was held at Shree Lohana Mahajan Wadi Hall on 9th July 2017. Few passes were distributed to each community for free. It was a great opportunity for some members of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal to listen to her words of wisdom.

Famously recognized by her inspirational stories across the globe, Mrs. Kaajal Oza Vaidhya arrived in East Africa to touch the lives of people with her motivational topics. She travelled to Nairobi then later to Dar Es Salaam for her speech on “A Balanced Life” – how to manage your various roles in a household, workplace and society.

Mrs. Kaajal Oza Vaidya is an author, screenwriter, radio personality and journalist from Ahmedabad, India. She initially worked as a journalist and actress. She has written more than 56 books including novels, short stories and essays. She has written stories, dialogues and scripts of soap operas and films. She writes columns in several publications and hosts a radio show.

To Mrs. Kaajal’s surprise, it was a full house audience on that Sunday evening and it truly was an honor for the people to take a few good hours from their weekend to attend and listen to her. She appreciated the audience and started off with her speech. We were delighted to receive more insight of the topic and truly grateful for showering us with her words of wisdom. Photo Credits: Sujit Bhojak

Everyone wants to make a career in life depending on their interests. My interest was in accounts and hence I chose ACCA as my pathway to an accounting career. ACCA stands for Association of Chartered Certified Accountant. It is a leading International Accountancy Body. Its qualifications are globally recognized and treated as an equivalent to local qualifications.

ACCA examinations has a total of 14 papers for you to cover. The syllabus includes 9 areas of studies. The knowledge which each syllabus gives you is a broad introduction to financial and management accounting, which has a total of 3 papers.

The 9 areas are divided into 2 major levels called Skilled and Professional levels. The Skill level covers the main technical subjects you need to know. It has a total of 6 papers. The Professional level includes 2 modules. In the Essential module, you need to pass all the 3 papers. And there are options where you are required to choose 2 papers out of 4.

I believe that hard work and time management are the key tools to help you achieve success, be it in studies or business. Instead of working hard for long hours, I recommend to shift focus to work smartly by balancing your time in both work and leisure.

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“ A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new ”

VGM Funeal Team led by Vishal Pragji

The Gymkhana Alliance Shield Cricket Tournament 2017; what a wonderful series of matches it was! The tournament commenced on the 11th of June 2017. Vanza Team participated in this tournament which was organized by the Gymkhana Cricket Section.

Each participating team were allowed to have two external players. Mr. Meet Jetha and Mr. Gurpal Jeetey had the opportunity to play for Vanza Team for this year’s tournament. As per the standard International rules, each match had a set of 20 overs a side.

The organizers managed to invite 20 teams in total. The teams were divided into 4 groups namely Group A, B, C and D. Each group consisted of 5 teams. Each team had to play with every other team in the group to determine which 2 teams will make it to the top of the table. Then those 2 teams from each group were to play for the Quarter finals. Winners to move to Semifinals and then the Finals.

Vanza supporters a.k.a the “Vanza cheerleaders” as usual, showed their enormous love and support towards the team throughout the tournament, making Team Vanza the crowd’s favorites. Be it during the early morning matches or during the scorching heat in the afternoon, you would definitely find Vanza supporters in the ground cheering for their team.

Vanza Cricket Team was headed by Captain Mr. Chetan Borkhataria and assisted by Vice-Captain Mr. Bhavesh Govind, who led the team very well. We played a total of 4 matches and achieved victory in one. Team Vanza came 4th out of the 5 teams in the group. In spite of that, the unity and team spirit showed by our players was tremendous.

Along with the team’s performance, there was some individual brilliance from few of our players. Mr. Meet Jetha was the best batsman in team. Mr. Gurpal Jeetey and Mr. Chetan Borkhataria were the best bowlers. The Champions of the tournament were AK team.

Although we did not make it till the end, we did however build as a team. The players showed a lot of enthusiasm and dynamism towards the team and the sport. Winning and losing is part of the game but the aim is to learn from it, not run away from it. We are optimistic that next year, together with the same team, we will achieve great heights.

VGM in The Gymkhana Alliance Shield Cricket Tournament 2017

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Top Left: Mr. Meet Jetha, Mr. Gurpal Jeetey, Mr. Akshay Pratap, Mr. Ritesh Parmar, Mr. Nirav Pratap, Mr. Dharmin Parmar, Mr. Falgun Bhadreshwara, Mr. Kamuti, Mr. Bhavesh Govind (Vice-Captain). Bottom Left: Mr. Dipesh Jethwa, Mr. Devan Borkhataria, Mr. Chetan Borkhataria (Captain), Mr. Raj Parmar, Mr. Brijesh Bhadresa.


“ Don’t limit your challenges. Challenge your limits ”

Remember one thing, many parents ponder on their roles in their child’s life. What is my role? What part should I play in my child’s life? As in a theater of a child’s life, there are parents on stage. What do they do? Is their role good or bad for their child? All parents strive to play the best role for their children. Whatever good role parents may choose to play, they may appear to be bad actors, unfortunately.

Often parents have to play too many roles, and therefore they act poorly. To raise a child, it takes a village, a well-known saying teaches us. However, in the modern life a parent has to do it all alone. An ordinary mother tries to be a mommy, a nanny, a caregiver, a cook, a servant, a playmate, a friend, a teacher, a tutor, a planner, a provider, not to mention that, if she is single, she also tries to be a father. It is obviously almost impossible to play all those roles very well. Therefore, there is a piece of advice for parents – play only one role, yours; a role of a parent.

What is the role of a parent? It becomes clearer when you think of your own parents and their influence on you as a person. What would be the one thing you want from your parents? Trust. If they trust you they obviously love you. If they trust it means you are worthy of this trust. To trust is to believe in a child’s goodness, know that the child is good. That’s it. If there was only one line written for a parent’s role, that would be “I trust you.”

For happy children, or children in trouble, it will always work for good if you say sincerely, “I trust you.” The most powerful words, which may help a difficult teenager are “I have faith in you, I believe you.” What is the role of a parent? It is to be yourself, don’t try to be someone else, and time to time rehearse this script, “I know you are a good kid. I trust you.” Even if you are not the best actor for other roles, your role of a parent will be accomplished well.

Why is this parenting faith so important? You can be a diligent parent following all advice on how to teach your child, you can even devote to your child all time available, and you still may have fears, which spoil your relationship with your child. And you can be a lousy parent, so busy that you have no time to teach your child anything. Yet, you can still give your child enough confidence by your faith. That is the role of a parent.

Role of a Parent by Mr. Bunty Liladhar Parmar and Mrs. Krupa Bunty Parmar

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“ Be a warrior, not a worrier ”

Pilgrimage to Hingraj Mata temple in Baluchistan by Mrs. Bharti Bhadresa

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Back in the year 1996, my family and I went for pilgrimage to Hingraj Mata temple in Baluchistan. We flew to Pakistan – Karachi then took a road trip which covered a distance of 250 km to Baluchistan. Despite the poor infrastructure during that time, it was the blessings of Mata Hingraj that helped us travel safely to Baluchistan. The environment comprises of land, mountains and mud volcanoes. It took approximately 4 days for us to complete the pilgrimage in Baluchistan.

The path to reach Mata Hingraj’s shrine is not easy. One must go through several tests in order to make it. With true faith, one must begin this journey with an early morning dip in the Hingrol River then walk further to the next phase. It is your faith and determination that mirrors on this river. If your faith is shaken, the walk through the river won’t be easy, the river will seem to appear like a flood during your walk through it. After our dip in the river, we climbed through 7 mountains. At the very top of the last mountain, we noticed a deep water body. It is believed that devotees must ask Mata Hingraj’s permission before entering the shrine.

To do this, one must offer a coconut to the water body. If the coconut floats, Mata Hingraj has granted permission however if it sinks, Mata Hingraj has denied your journey further. We were blessed to see our coconut float on the water and continued our journey to the next phase, which was the hawan at Kali Maa temple.

After the hawan, we were advised to create a brotherly/sisterly relationship with a local person and then crawl through the sanctum together. Another entrance is through the door. There is no man-made image of Mata Hingraj. A shapeless stone is worshipped as Mata Hingraj. The stone is beautifully adorned with red chundri and smeared with kanku. As we stepped out through the opening at the other side, we were advised to take 7 turns around chorasya. It is believed that sins are washed out by doing so and also elevates the spirit to the path of attaining salvation.

According to scriptures, the daughter of Prajapati Daksh, Sati was married to Lord Shiva against his wishes. Daksh organized a great yajna but did not invite Sati and Lord Shiva. Uninvited, Sati reached the yajna site where Daksh ignored Sati and vilified Lord Shiva. Unable to withstand this insult, Sati jumped into the sacrificial fire and immolated herself. Sati died, but her corpse did not burn. Lord Shiva slew Daksh for being responsible for Sati’s death and forgave him, resurrecting him. Lord Shiva was grief-stricken and wandered the universe with Sati’s corpse. Finally, the Lord Vishnu used his chakra to dismember the body of Sati into 52 parts, each of which became Shakti Peetha, temple to a form of the Goddess. The head of the Sati is said to have fallen at Hingraj.

The other story relates to the area being governed by a cruel ruler, Hingol. The people prayed to the goddess to free them of the throes of his tyranny and the goddess complied. Before killing Hingol though, she is said to have granted him his last wish – that of the area being named after him.

Every year in the month of March/April, many Hindus visit the Mata Hingraj’s and pray. One of Durga’s Shaktipeeth situated in Pakistan is visited by Muslims too. Anybody can visit Mata Hingraj’s shrine since these days the infrastructure is greatly improved and pilgrimage packages are easily available to ensure a smooth journey. The natural ambience is pure bliss for the devotees to get caught up in the swirl of divinity. It’s a haven on the outskirts of normal life.


“ It always seems impossible until it’s done ”

Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal once again organized an Inter Community Volleyball Tournament from 5th to 23rd June at Vyamshala, Hindu Union and Friends United grounds. Participating teams were divided into two major Groups.

From 5th to 20th June, the teams were competing in group stages whereby Rana Youth Gold qualified to the Quarter Finals with a leading score of 24 pts, followed by Young Hindus – 22 pts, Rajput Bhoiraj Red and Blue – 21 pts, Vanza Youths and Shree Rajput Dhobi Red – 17 pts, Rana Youth Silver – 16 pts and Rajput Bhoiraj Green – 13 pts.

It was Rana Youth Gold versus Young Hindus in the Semi Finals. Young Hindus gave a tough competition to Rana Youth Gold with a 1-1 equalizer in the first two sets however Rana Youth Gold paced up and qualified to the mega finals with a 2-1 win. Rajput Bhoiraj Red were well prepared and easily beat Vanza Youths with a winning score of 2 straight.

Rana Youth Gold, being the winners of Volleyball Tournament 2016, focuses to defend their title against Rajput Bhoiraj Red. As the final match began, Rana Youth Gold were roaring the first round with a smashing score of 17-4. Rajput Bhoiraj Red were trying to make sure that they don’t lose momentum hence creating a

tough challenge for Rana Youth Gold. However, Rana Youth Gold had their heads up and scored 8-5 in the second round. It wasn’t the end for Rajput Bhoiraj Red. The third round was a last chance for them to step into the best of 5 sets. With an initial score of 0-0 for a few good minutes, Rana Youth Gold strived victorious in the third round with a score of 8-2 and still keeps the Floating Trophy!

Inter Community Volleyball and Throwball Tournaments

19

Top Left: Hiten Pithia, Bhavesh Govind, Nisheet Jethwa, Chintu Parmar (Captain), Falgun Bhadreshwara. Bottom Left: Bunty Parmar, Chetan Borkhataria, Kamal Davadra, Dhruv Parmar, Ashish Parmar. Missing in picture: Harshil Jethwa, Kash Jethwa. Top Left: Hiren Velji, Deepak Mandania, Meet Jetha,

Mayur Gosai, Ritesh Parmar (Captain). Bottom Left: Paresh Kharawala, Jilesh Davda, Amit Katakia, Alpesh Bhatt.

Top Left: Hiten Nakeshree, Nishit Bhikha, Sunil Nakeshree, Prashant Chohan, Ravi Solanki, Bhavnesh Bhikha. Bottom Left: Diven Bhanji, Bhavik Kanji, Kunal Motichand, Devan Tulsi, Harshil Solanki (Captain).


“ Believe you can and you’re halfway there ”

20

Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal also organized a Women’s Inter Community Throwball Tournament from 19th to 23rd June at Friends United and Vyamshala grounds. The participating teams were Lohana A, Lohana B, Rajput Dhobi and Vanza.

The teams that qualified to the Semi Finals were Lohana A leading with a total of 9 pts, followed by Shree Rajput Dhobi – 6 pts, Vanza – 3 pts and Lohana B – 0 pts.

Lohana A and Lohana B were competing with each other to secure their place in the finals. It was an easy start for Lohana A and hence won a 2 straight. Later that evening was Shree Rajput Dhobi versus Vanza. Vanza also scored an amazing 2 straight against Shree Rajput Dhobi and hence qualified to the mega finals against Lohana A.

In the finals, Lohana A started off with a striking win in the first set scoring 10-6. Vanza were focused on the game and trying their best to score more in the second set however Lohana A once again nailed it with 10-4 score, a 2 straight against Vanza!

The presentation ceremony was held at Shree Sanatan Dharma Sabha. A total of 107 trophies were awarded to the winners. All 22 teams were honored for participating in the tournaments.

It was phenomenal to witness an approximate number of 500 people present to grace the event!

Inter Community Volleyball and Throwball Tournaments ( Contd...)

Top Left: Jinal Somani, Meetal Modi, Kruti Kotak, Hima Chandarana, Raksha Nathwani Pranjivan, Shruti Mehta, Bijal Mehta. Bottom Left: Dipali Somani (Captain), Anushka Somaiya, Krupa Vithlani, Sona Thakrar. Missing in picture: Nishita Davda.

Top Left: Hemika Borkhataria, Kanchan Chohan, Poonam Rathod (Captain), Pooja Jethwa, Neema Govind, Geetal Jethwa, Bhavini Rathod. Bottom Left: Bhavika Parmar, Pooja Borkhataria, Bhavisha Jethwa, Dhara Borkhataria, Prerna Gondalia.


“ You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice ”

21

THROWBALL TOURNAMENT WINNERS

Winners of the Tournament – Lohana ARunners up - VanzaBest Player of the Tournament – Raksha NathwaniBest Netty – Anushka SomaiyaBest Servicewoman – Neema GovindBest Disciplined Team – Rajput DhobiToken of appreciation to referees – Karim Ramji and Tony D’Souza

Best Player in respective teams Shree Rajput Dhobi – Dhruvi Kamania Lohana A – Sona Thakrar Lohana B – Sonali Nathwani Vanza – Bhavisha Jethwa

VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT WINNERS

Winners of the Tournament – Rana Youth GoldRunners up – Rajput Bhoiraj RedBest Player of the Tournament – Ritesh Parmar (Mapara)Best Netty – Kunal MotichandBest Upcoming Player – Jeet TulsiBest Serviceman – Nishit ModesaBest Disciplined Team – Young Hindu StarsBest Refereeing Team – Young HindusBest Veteran Player – Deepak Mandania

Special Medal for Tournament Entertainment – Rakesh Kara (Ram Jane)Best Veteran member of organizing Committee – Ramesh Parmar (Mama)Best Player in respective teams Kanbis A – Bhavik Bhudiya Kanbis B – Arvind Rabadia Team Suthar – Pritesh Bakrania Young Hindu Stars – Keval Patadia Vanza Youths – Bhavesh Govind Young Hindus – Anup Sharma Lohana A – Sundeep Patalia Lohana B – Punit Rughani Shree Rajput Dhobi Blue – Amit Vara Shree Rajput Dhobi Red – Ashish Kamania Rajput Bhoiraj Red – Nishit Bhika Rajput Bhoiraj Green – Nishmal Solanki Rajput Bhoiraj Yellow – Nitin Chohan Rajput Bhoiraj Blue – Amit Solanki Rajput Bhoiraj Veterans – Naresh Bhika Rajput Bhoiraj Youth – Rupesh Solanki Rana Youth Silver – Atish Katakia Rana Youth Gold – Hiren Velji

The success of both tournaments were possible through overall support received from sponsors, donors, gnati bandhus, all members of Vanza Volleyball Team and of course it would not have been possible without the main conveners Bhavesh Govind and Chintu Parmar, and a full dedicated team support from the trustees, organizing committee and management. We truly appreciate each and every one who joined hands with us to take this tournament to another level.

Inter Community Volleyball and Throwball Tournaments ( Contd...)


“ Great things never came from comfort zones ”

22

Mehndi Tips and Tricks by Ms. Janki Borkhataria

Mehndi is a red colored body art design which is obtained when it is applied on skin. Mehndi (also known as Henna) is a flowering plant whose leaves are made into a paste and then applied on various body parts like hands, feet, arms etc to achieve beautiful design.

Here are a few tips to help you achieve a stunning mehndi for better stain and rich color.

Position the tip of Mehndi cone over the skin by applying a little force to top of cone gently so that mehndi can dispense off to hand from the tip. Then create your own design to give your mehndi a unique look.

The hands and feet will be stained darker as the skin on extremities is thick. Skin of neck does not stain well because skin is thin here.

The design applied must be left for drying. Do not touch it until its start cracking naturally. A typical mehndi type takes around an hour to dry and give good color.

Mix 1 tea spoon sugar, 10ml water and half squeezed lemon then apply when the mehndi is dry to give it a darker color.

Keep the Mehndi design wrapped for at least 12 hours or overnight. This will help in giving better color to mehndi on your skin.

Now the dried flakes of mehndi must be cleaned off without using water. Keep it away from water at least a day.


“ Excellence is a continuous progress and not an accident ”

Success Party of Volleyball and Throwball Tournaments

23

It was an unforgettable night for the Teams on the 6th of July 2017. A grand success party for the Vanza players of Throwball and Volleyball Teams was held at Khalsa Sports Club. The respected Trustees of Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal along with the Team’s spouses and children, were gathered to celebrate this special occasion.

There were mouthwatering dishes, drinks and the cakes specially baked by Mrs. Bhavini Rathod. Music was being played in the background to lighten up the room with joy. Just when the tempo was getting faster, we kicked some few dance moves to embrace the joy.

A speech was presented by the Trustees as they appreciated and motivated the teams. The teams were highly encouraged to participate and support in the Easter Sport Festival 2018. The Trustees also thanked Mr. Milan Rathod on behalf of everyone for the delicious food.

As we had our conversations with the Team Captains, they had few words of appreciation for the Teams as follows: -

“We as a Team, would like to thank the Committee and the Members for all the support and appreciation that has been shown to us throughout the Tournaments. Everyone being so positive, had boosted our confidence to do better for our Community. Encouragement and Strengthening for one another is a key Motto for Passion and Success for all.”


“ Stars can’t shine without darkness ”

Awardees for the year 2015 : Education / Achievements / Participation Awardees for the year 2015 : Education / Achievements / Participation Inspirational Hindi Poem by Mr. Shirish Rathod

24

Ache dost saffed rang ke jaise hotey hai, Saffed me koi bhi rang milao, toh naya rang ban sakta hai,

Par duniya ke saare rang mila kar ke bhi, Ek saffed rang nahi ban sakte,

Acha waqt se zyada, acha dost aziz rakho, Kyun ki acha dost bure waqt ko bhi, acha bana deta hai,

Bharosa karo toh sirf ek us shaksh par jo ap ki andar ki teen cheezo ko dekh sake, Ek – haseen ki peeche ka dard, Do – gusse ke peeche ka pyaar, Teen – khamosh rehene ki vajay,

Ehsas badal jaatey hai, bas or kuch nahi, Warna mohabat aur nafrat, ek hi dilo se hoti,

Zindagi me jo chaho hasil karlo, bas itna khayal rakhna, Ki apke manzil ka raasta kabhi logo ke dilo ko torta hua na guzre.

Taakat ki zarurat tab bhi parti hai, jab kisi ka bura karna ho, Warna duniya me sab kuch paane ki liye, pyaar hi kaafi hai,

Kaanun ki zarurat bure logo ke liye hai, Kyu ki ache log toh sharam se hi mar jaate.

Khud ki taraki me itna waqt lagado, Ke durse ki burayi karne ka waqt hi na mile,

Koi bhi insaan itna amir nahi hota, ki woh apna guzra hua kal kharid sake, Aur koi bhi insaan itna gharib nahi hota, ki woh apne aane wale kal badal nahi sake.

Ghalati usi se hoti hai, jo mehenat karta hai, Nikamo ki zindagi toh dusro ki ghalati khojne main hi, khatam ho jati hai, Ek sacha dost agar so baar bhi rootey, toh use har baar mana lena chahiye,

Kyu ki kimti motiyo ki maala jitni baar bhi toot thi hai, use pirona hi parta hai.

Zindagi me har mokey ka faida uthao, magar kisi ke bharose ka nahi, Apni zindagi me aise logo ko shaamil karo, ko kabhi aina aur kabhi saaya ban kar saath rahe.

Kyu ki aina kabhi bhi jhoot nahi bolta, Aur saaya kabhi saath nahi chodta.

Nah tum apne aap ko gale laga sakte ho, Nahi tum apne kandhe par sar rakh kar ro sakte ho,

Ek dusre ke liye jeene ka naam hi zindagi hai, Isiliye waqt une do, jo tumhe chaate ho.

Dil se bane rishte, paiso ke mohtaj nai hotey, Kyu ki kuch rishte munafa nahi dete, Par jeevan, amir zarur bana dete hai,Main baro ki izzat isiliye karta hoon,

Kyu ki unki achahiya mujhse zyada hai, Aur choto ko pyar isiliye karta hoon,

Kyu ki gunah mujhse kam hai.


Kid’s Corner

“ When you can’t change the direction of the wind, adjust your sails ”

25


Navratri, Diwali and New Year Celebrations

“ A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step ”

26

Navratri Festival, is celebrated to worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, the Hindu Goddess of Power. In Gujarat, people gather in groups to perform the Dandiya and Garba dance. The dandiya sticks of various colors are used. Some people also throw dry colors on each other. Many devotees fast for entire nine days during the festival. They chant various mantras and shlokas while worshiping the Deity.

This year has been an immense blessing for Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal as we had jointly celebrated Navratri with Shree Luhar Gnati Mandal. The celebrations commenced from 21st September 2017 to 27th September 2017. We gathered at the premises from 8pm onwards and initiated the Arti ceremony. From the decorations, food, music, security and management, gnati bandhus participated actively in the Navratri Celebrations.

The festival of Navratri continues for nine days and is usually followed by Vijaya Dashmi (also Dussehra) Festival on the 10th day. At Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal, we celebrate Navratri for 7 nights. On the 8th day, we proceed with Havan Ashtami ritual. Mr. Pavan Jayant Vaghela and family were the main Yajmans for this year’s Havan Ashtami on 28th September 2017.

Diwali is a five days long festival, each day named as Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi (or Chhoti Diwali), Lakshmi Puja (or Main Diwali), Bali Pratipada (or Govardhan Puja), and Yama Dwitiya (or Bhaiduj). There is a tradition of buying new things on the day of Dhanteras and distributing gifts and sweets on the day of Diwali. During Diwali, we honor Goddess Lakshmi by preparing a variety of sweet dishes and other delicious dishes. In the evening at 6pm we decorate our houses with candles, earthen lamps, electric bulbs, flowers to welcome the Goddess Lakshmi. Everyone gets prepared in the night after 8pm for the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and God Ganesha. We pray to the Goddess by offering flowers, sweet and agarbati to receive blessings for prosperous and happy life. All the family members, friends and relatives get together at one place to add more joy to this festival.

The New Year 2074 was celebrated at Shree Vanza Gnati Mandal on 20th October 2017, with the start of Chopda Pujan, Ankot and Bhajans. The prayers were complete with the Arti in the evening. After the prayers, dinner was served with Karaoke Program, whereby gnati bandhus enjoyed the mix of both food and songs.


“ You only fail when you stop trying ”

ઘુમલી એ ગુજરાતના જામનગર જિલ્લામાં પોરબંદરથી ૩૫ કિમી દૂર બરડાની તળેટીમાં આવેલું એક પુરાતન સ્થળ છે.ઘુમલી કે ભૂમલી એ એક સમયે ગુજરાતના જેઠવા શાસકોની રાજધાની હતી. આ શહેરની સ્થાપના જેઠવા સાલ કુમારે ઈ.સ. ૭ મી સદીમાં કરી હતી.[૧]

ઈ.સ. ૧૨૨૦માં રાણા સિયાજી દ્વારા ઘુમલીને જેઠવા રાજ્યની બીજી રાજધાની તરીકે ઘોષિત કરી. તેમણે પોતાની રાજધાની શ્રીનગર (પોરબંદર)થી ખસેડી. [૨]

ઈ.સ. ૧૩૦૯ માં જાડેજા જામ ઊણાજી સિંધથી આવ્યાં અને તેમણે ઘુમલી પર ચડાઈ કરી પણ તે હારી ગયા. ત્યારે બાદ ૧૩૧૩માં તેના પુત્ર બારમાનીયાજી જાડેજાએ ફરી ઘુમલી પર ચડાઈ કરી અને રાણા જેઠવા ને હરાવી ઘુમલીને જીતી લીધી. તે જ રાતે તેના સપનામાં અંબા માતાજી પ્રગટ થયા અને કહ્યું કે તેમણે તેના પિતાની ઘુમલી જીતવાની આશા પૂરી કરી હતી આથી તે સ્થળે તેમનું મંદિર બંધાવું જોઈએ. આથી બામણીયાજી એ ઘુમલીને મધ્યમાં આવેલી ટેકરી પર મંદિર બંધાવ્યું, જેને આશાપૂરા માતા તરીકે ઓળખાવ્યા. તેણે ઘુમલીનો સંપૂર્ણ નાશા કર્યો અને તેને ખંડેરમાં ફેરવી દીધું.[૩][૪]

ઈ.સ. ૧૩૧૩ સુધી ઘુમલી જેઠવા રાજ્યની રાજધાની રહી. ૧૩૧૩માં રાણા ભાણજી જેઠવાનો એક યુદ્ધમાં પરાજય થતાં તેઓ રાણપુરા નાસી છૂટ્યાં હતાં. એમ કહેવાય છે રાણા જેઠવા સતી શોણના પ્રેમામાં પડ્યાં હતાં અને તેના શાપ થકી આ નગરીનો નાશ થયો હતો. [૫]નવલખા મંદિર, ઘુમલી

આજે, ઘુમલી ગુજરાતનું એક મહત્ત્વપૂર્ણ પુરાતન સ્થળ છે. આ સ્થળે પ્રકાલિતા નવલખા મંદિર છે, જેને ગુજરાતનું સૌથી પ્રાચીન સૂર્ય મંદિર મનાય છે. આ મંદિર સોલંકી શૈલીમાં બંધાયેલું છે અને એક બીજામાં ઘૂસેલા હાથીના ત્રણ દાંત એ આ મંદિરનું ચિન્હ હતા. આ સાથે અહીં (પગથી) એક વાવ છે, જેને વિકાઈ વાવ કહે છે. તે કાઠિયાવાડમાં સૌથી મોટી વાવ છે. અહીંના ખંડેરમાં નવલખા મંદિરની અંદર એક ગણેશ મંદિર છે. તે “ઘુમલી ગણેશ” તરીકે ઓળખાય છે. આ સ્થળનું એક અન્ય આકર્ષક સ્થળ રામપોળા દ્વાર છે. [૬]

ગુજરતા સરકાર અને ભારતીય પુરાતત્વ ખાતા એ આ સ્થળના સંવર્ધનનું કાર્ય હાથ ધર્યું છે.~ ઘુમલી: એક અત્યંત પ્રાચીન નગર ~

ઘુમલી એ ગુજરાતના જામનગર જિલ્લામાં ભાણવડ થી 7 કીમી દૂર બરડાની તળેટીમાં આવેલું એક પુરાતાત્વીક સ્થળ છે.

ઘુમલી જેઠવા વંશના રાજપુતોની રાજધાનીનું શહે૨ હતું. અહીં જેઠવા વંશના સત૨ રાજવીઓએ રાજ કરેલ છે. તેમાના ભાણ જેઠવાના નામ ૫૨થી હાલમાં તાલુકા સ્થળ જે ભાણવડ છે. તે તેના નામ ૫૨થી થયેલ છે.

પ્રાચીન સ્થળોની વાત કરીએ છીએ ને તેય ખાસ કરીને જામનગર જિલ્લામાં ત્યારે ઘુમલી યાદ આવ્યા વિના ના રહે. જામનગર જિલ્લામાં બરડા ડુંગરના વિસ્તારમાં ભાણવડ ગામ પાસે એક અત્યંત પ્રાચીન નગર અને મંદિરના ખંડેરો અતીતમાં અર્ધલુપ્તન થયેલાં જાણે નિસાસા નાખતાં પડ્યાં છે. અનેક નગરો નાશ પામ્યાં ને પાછાં પુનર્જીવિત થયાં, પણ કોણ જાણે કેમ ઘુમલી ગયું તે ગયું; ફરી વસ્યું જ નહીં. ઇતિહાસ અને પુરાતત્વ માટે હવે એ અભ્યાસનું ગણાઈને જ સંતોષ માને છે.

વૈભવી નગરનું અસ્તિત્વસોમનાથ કરતાં પણ પાંચસો વર્ષ નજીકનું અને મોઢેરાની અપૂર્વ સ્થાપત્ય-શિલ્પકળાની તોલે આવે તેવા ઉત્કૃષ્ટં મંદિરના અવશેષો ઘુમલીમાં છે. દોઢેક કિલોમીટર જેટલા મોટા વિસ્તારમાં વેરવિખેર પડેલા, વિવિધ શૈલીના અવશેષો પરથી તે ૯ મીથી ૧૪ સદી સુધીમાં બંધાયેલ હોવાનું જણાય છે. તેનું ઉત્કૃષ્ટવ કલાવિધાન જોતાં અહીં કોઈ વૈભવી નગરનું અસ્તિત્વ હશે એમ જણાય છે.

નવલખા મંદિર : નવલખા મંદિર અગિયારમી-બારમી સદીનાં સૌરાષ્ટ્રથના મંદિરોમાં એનાં સમૃદ્ધ અને નમૂનેદાર સ્થાપત્યને કારણે અનોખી ભાત પાડે છે. ગુજરાતભરના મંદિરોમાં સૌથી વિશાળ જગતી ધરાવતું આ મંદિર ૪૫.૭૨ x ૩૦.૪૮ મી.ની જગતી પર પૂર્વાભિમુખે ઊભું છે. આ વિશાળ જગતી પર ચડવા માટેનાં પગથિયાં પાસે ભવ્ય કીર્તિતોરણ હતું જે નષ્ટન થયું છે. મંદિરમાં ગર્ભગૃહ અને ફરતો છાજલીયુક્ત પ્રદક્ષિણા પથ, સમ્મુખ વિશાળ (સભા) મંડપ અને એમાં પ્રવેશવા માટે ત્રણેય દિશામાં કરેલ શ્રૃંગારચોકીઓની રચના છે. જગતીની ઊભણીમાં ચોતરફ કરેલા ગવાક્ષોમાં દિક્પાલાદિ દેવતાઓનાં શિલ્પ મૂકેલાં છે. પ્રદક્ષિણા પથમાં ત્રણે દિશાએ ઝરૂખાઓની રચના છે. મંડપની મધ્યમાં અષ્ટેકોણ સ્તંભ કરેલા છે પ્રવેશચોકીઓ પણ બે મજલાની છે. મંદિરની પીઠની ત્રણે બાજુએ મધ્યમાં બે જબરદસ્ત હાથી સૂંઢમાં સૂંઢ ભરાવીને સાઠમારી કરતા દર્શાવ્યા છે.

ઘુમલીનું નવલખા મંદિર એ સોમનાથની કદમાં કંઈક નાનું પણ કલામાં લેશમાત્ર ઊતરતું નહીં એવું ઉત્કૃષ્ટએ કલાકૃતિ સમું છે. આભપરા ઉપરનો કોટ, ત્યાંનાં તળાવો, નવલખા મંદિર, ગણેશ દેરું, રામપોળનો દરવાજો, નાનીમોટી વાવો, પાળિયા, કંસારી વાવ, કંસારી દેરાં વગેરે ઘુમલીની ઝાંખી કરાવે છે. આ સદીના આરંભમાં ગુજરાત - સૌરાષ્ટ્ર નાં શિલ્પ-સ્થાપત્યોના અવશેષોની નોંધ કરી ગયેલા વિદેશી કલાવિવેચક બર્જેસે પોતાના ગ્રંથ ‘એન્ટીક્વીટીજ ઑફ કાઠિયાવાડ‘માં તેની નોંધ લીધી ત્યાર પહેલાં કોઈને ભાગ્યે જ આની જાણ હતી. છેલ્લા ચારેક દાયકા દરમિયાન આ અંગે સારું એવું સંશોધન થયું છે અને ગ્રંથો પણ લખાયા છે.

આજે , ઘૂલામી ગુજરાતનું એક મહત્ત્વ પૂર્ણ પુરાતાત્વીક સ્થળ છે. આસ્થાલે પ્રકાલિતા નવલખા મંદિર છે જેને ગુજરાતનું સૌથી પ્રાચીન સૂર્ય મંદિર મનાય છે. આ મંદિર સોલંકી શૈલીમાં બંધાયેલું છે અને એકા બીજામાં ઘૂસેલા હાથીના ત્રણ દાંતા એ આ મંદિરનું ચિન્હ હતા. આ સાથે અહીં (પગથી) એક વાવ છે, જેને વિકાઈ વાવ કહે છે તે કાઠિયાવાડમાં સૌથી મોટી વાવ છે. અહીંના ખંડેરમાં નવલખા મંદિરની અંદર એક ગણેશં મંદિર છે. તે ઘુમલી ગણેશ તરીકે ઓળખાય છે. અને સ્થાનીય લોકો તેને રોજા પૂજા કરે છે. એકા અન્ય આકર્ષક સ્થળ છે રામપોળા દ્વાર.

Ghumli - Jethwa’s History by Mr. Shirish Rathod

28


Pooja SolankiFor Graduating and being Awarded with BSc

in Nursing from Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries University of Dar es Salaam

Awardees for the year 2017 : Education / Achievements / Participation

Trophy Medal

Vaidehi Bunty ParmarFor ranking 1st in Grade 1 - Shree Hindu Mandal

Primary School

Yash Sachin ParmarFor ranking 2nd in Grade 4 - Shree Hindu Mandal

Primary School

Jay Harish JethwaFor Graduating and being Award-ed with First Class Honours in BSc Civil Engineering from University

of Coventry

Sneha P. JethwaFor Graduating and being

Awarded BSc in Nursing from Hubert Kariuki Memorial Uni-

versity

Veenay VanzaWinners for Mzizima Football

Tournament 11 asideWinners in 4 aside Football

tournament at JMK ( Jakaya Kikwete Youth Park )

Runners up in 5 aside Football tournament at JMK

Khilan Sanjay ParmarFor Graduating and being

Awarded with BSc in Architecture from Ardhi University

‘Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise’ - Les Miserables



Prachi Jiten ParmarFor Scoring an Average of 95% - KG II Montessori Al

Muntazir Union Nursery School

Diya Anup RathodOutstanding Performance with an Average of A+ - Academy

International

Kush Chetan BorkhatariaFor ranking 3rd in Grade 5 - Al Muntazir Boys

Primary School

Niyati Jiten RathodFor ranking 2nd - Grade 5 - Al Muntazir Girls Primary

School For Successful completion of ABACUS Advance level one

Deeva Bhavin BorkhatariaFor Soring Average of 86% - Al Muntazir Girls Primary School

Aditi Bhavin BorkhatariaFor ranking 1st in Form 1 - Al

Muntazir Islamic Seminarywith Award of 1 million shillings

Scholarship for the year 2018

An obstacle is often a stepping stone’ - Prescott


Pooja Nishit JethwaFor Participating & Successful Completion of 9km

Marathon organized by Rotary Club Dar es Salaam

Bhavin Vrajlal Parmarfor climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to Gilman’s point 2016

Poonam Anup RathodFor Participating & Successful Completion of 9km


Ramesh Parmar“for providing his services and inspiring youngsters by

being first and last person to leave every play day during VGM Inter community volleyball tournament”

Vrajlal Nanji Parmar“For being the oldest Member and as an Inspiration to

the Youth with 100% attendance during Management meetings”

Shweta Paresh ChohanFor being in the Editorial board since it is Launched & con-

tinuously providing the services

Sanchi Jiten RathodFor Scoring an Average of 97% KG III Montessori Al


Dheer Paresh ChohanFor Scoring an Average of 97% in Grade 1 - Al Muntazir

Boys Primary School

Devan Bhavin BorkhatariaFor ranking 3rd in ABACUS Level IV Advance


Raj Sanjay ParmarFor ranking 3rd in Form II - Al Muntazir Islamic

Seminary

Priyan Vimal RathodFor Scoring an Average of 96% KG III Montessori Al


Bhavisha JethwaBest Player in Throwball VGM Volleyball & Throwball

Tournament

If u want a happy life, tie it to a goal; not to a person or object’ - Albert Einstein


Pooja Nishit JethwaFor Participating & Successful Completion of 9km


Bhavesh Pranlal GovindBest Player - Sika and Sajjad Memorial Cup 2017, VGM Intercommunity Tournament 2017 & Patel Night Cricket

Tournament 2017 ( One Night ) Best Entry / Best Partnership ACES Cricket Club

Team Achievement - Most Outstanding Success for the year 2017. Unity Games Dubai Winners (Volleyball)

MO Jaffries Morogoro Volleyball Tournament WinnersAmeet & Kewal Memorial Volley Tournament Winners

Mrs. Nirupa J. ChohanOldest person to complete the Charity Walk organized by SVGM in collaboration with SVSS & Lions Club

Dar es Salaam Clty 2017

Chintu Ramesh ParmarUnder his Captainship the Volleyball team of Friends

United were declared Champions without a Single defeat throughout the Tournament that took place in October 2017

(Hindu Union Volleyball Tournament)

Mrs. Neema Bhavesh GovindBest Service Woman - VGM Intercommunity

Throwball Tournament


Jayant ChohanSwam 5 km at the age of 81 years

Poonam Anup RathodThrowball Team Captain Runners up trophy under her Captainship

in an Intercommunity Tournament organized by VGM

Never give up because great things take time


“ Loneliness is easily avoided by always serving others ”

Late Mr. Nilesh Bhagwanji Pratap left us on 25th April 2017. Brother of Mr. Harish Bhagwani Pratap passed away around 9 p.m.

May God always grant you, a sun beam to warm you, a moon to charm you, a sheltering Angel so nothing can harm you, laughter to cheer you, faithful friends near you and whenever you pray and Heaven to hear you. May your soul rest in peace. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.

May you Rest in Peace, Jai Shree Krishna ! Om Shanti Shanti Shanti !

Late Mrs. Narmadaben Gordhan Solanki left us on 13th August 2017. Mother of Mr. Narendra (LALA) Gordhan Solanki passed away around 7:45 p.m.Death is a passing phase of life, a birth into the unborn again, a commencing where we ended, a starting where we stopped to rest, a crossroad of Eternity, the end of the unreal and the beginning of the real. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. May your soul Rest in Peace. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.Late Mr. Dharmendra Nanji Khimji Parmar left us on 4th October 2017.

Husband of Mrs. Bharti Dharmendra Parmar and Father of Mr. Sanjay & Mr. Sailesh Parmar passed away around 11.15 a.m. Someday when the pages of life end, I know that you will be one of the important chapters. It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember when words can never fully express how much someone means to us. You will truly be missed.

May your soul Rest in Peace. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.

Shradhanjali to those who left us in 2017 by Ms. Meera Rathod

29

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