Kaival Gyan Mandir celebrates Women’s Day with “Shuraatan in Saree: The Courage Within”
By: IndoUS Tribune Staff
On March 8th, Kaival Gyan Mandir in CarolStream hosted a remarkable celebration in honor of International Women’s Day, titled “Shuraatan in Saree: The Courage Within.” The event, attended by over 200 guests in person and more than 350 virtual participants from the United States and Canada, was a tribute to the strength, resilience, and empowerment of women.
The theme, “Shuraatan in Saree,” emphasized the courage (Shuraatan) inherent in women, symbolized by the saree—a garment that has historically been worn by women who have led armies, nations, and social movements while upholding cultural traditions.
Honoring Women of Strength Through History
The event took attendees on an enlightening journey through history, recognizing women from Hindu traditions and modern history who exemplify courage:
- Meerabai’s unwavering faith in Lord Krishna reflected the power of spirituality as a guiding force.
- Gargi’s intellectual curiosity and philosophical strength inspired generations to use their voices boldly.
- Hetba Mata’s fearless journey in the 1700s—traveling alone, by foot, with a baby—showcased the resilience of women and their determination to fulfill their spiritual calling.
- Malala Yousafzai’s fight for girls’ education highlighted modern-day advocacy for women’s rights worldwide.
To make the event more inclusive, parallel tracks in English and Gujarati were conducted, ensuring that American-born and raised generations could connect with the stories and lessons in a relatable way.
Panel Discussions: Breaking Barriers and Balancing Life
A panel discussion featuring women from various walks of life brought forward inspiring stories of balancing careers, faith, culture, and family responsibilities while challenging societal norms. The conversations encouraged women to recognize their own inner power and continue pushing boundaries for themselves and future generations.
Self-Reflection and Spiritual Empowerment
To reinforce these messages, attendees participated in a guided gratitude meditation, where they reflected on their personal journeys while painting. This activity helped them appreciate the individuals and experiences that shaped them into the women they are today.
A major highlight of the evening was a live address from Jagatguru Shree Avichaldevacharya Maharaj, the spiritual leader of Kaival Gyan Sampradaya, who joined from India to bless all participants and encourage them to continue their spiritual and cultural journeys.
An Event “For Women, By Women”
From planning to execution, Kaival Gyan Mandir’s female volunteers—both young and old—came together to ensure the event’s success. They handled everything from organizing, serving, and cleanup, reinforcing the strength of community and collective effort.
The evening concluded with “Samuh Bhakti” (collective prayer) and a delicious dinner, leaving attendees enriched—mentally, spiritually, and physically.
With its perfect blend of history, empowerment, and self-reflection, “Shuraatan in Saree” was not just an event but a powerful reminder for every woman to embrace her own strength and courage.
