VHPA Philosophy

Guiding Principles of VHP of America

These principles are enunciated in the most ancient spiritual literature called Vedas, considered by many as the eternal source of spiritual and secular knowledge for humanity.

“This whole world that has moving things, and which itself is moving, is pervaded by one and the same Lord”- The unity of one Spirit in the diversity of nature is captured in this verse.

“The entire creation is one interconnected family.” This captures the essence of universal brotherhood and harmony among people and with the environment.

“Let all be happy, let all be healthy, let all experience goodness, let sorrows be no one’s lot” – A Hindu does not ask God only for his own, his family’s, his community’s or his nation’s happiness, but he prays for the happiness of the entire creation.

Thus, respect for diversity, peaceful and harmonious coexistence with people of different cultures and faiths is the heart and soul of Hindu Dharma (values and codes of conduct).

To emphasize that these are not merely nice words of expression to conveniently use in appropriate places and at proper times, Hindus have actually practiced and lived by these principles throughout their long history. People of different faiths – Jews, Christians, Parsees, Muslims and others who were persecuted in their own lands have come and settled in India during last several hundred years. Even today, India is a multi-cultural, secular and a flourishing democracy because of the open and generous outlook of majority Hindus.

Objectives and Activities of VHP of America

The main objectives of VHPA are:

  1. To educate our next generations about the great human values as envisaged by our ancient sages and seers so they can learn and assimilate the best from both Eastern and Western cultures and become responsible, contributing citizens of their adopted land as well as of the world.
  2. To provide a forum that looks out for and addresses Hindu interests in USA.
  3. Help minimize the misconceptions and misinformation about Hinduism that may exist for whatever reason so that a meaningful, harmonious and mutually respectful coexistence is possible among people of diverse faiths, traditions and cultures.
  4. To provide humanitarian and relief services regardless of race, religion, color, creed, place or any other differences.

In the last 50 years, VHPA has undertaken over 40 different initiatives and programs towards the fulfillment of the above objectives

Eternal Truths That Inspire Us

  • Ekam Sat, Viprah Bahudah Vadanti – is One, Sages speak of it variously.
  • Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah – All be happy.
  • Krunvanto Vishwa Aryam – Let us strive to make the whole world Noble.
  • Aano Bhadraah Kratavo Yantu Vishwato – Let noble thoughts come to our minds from all over.
  • Ishavasyamidam Sarvam – There is ONLY Ishwar; period.
  • Vasudhaiv Kuthumbakam – The entire Cosmos is interconnected and interdependent.
  • Sarva Mangal Mangalyam – Let ALL be at peace and blissful. Let ALL flourish.
  • Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah – You sustain and are sustained by Dharma.
  • Swayam Eva Mrigendrata – A nation can rise to prominence only through its own virtues, strengths, sacrifices and efforts. Nobody’s approval is needed!
  • Sangh Shakti Vijetriyam – Collective thought, collective action, collective voice, collective celebration!
  • San gachhadhwam, sam vadadhwam sam vo manaansi jaanaatam – Meet together, talk together, let your minds apprehend alike.

Sadhana, Nitya Sadhana, Sadhana, Akhand Sadhana