India is a land of rich cultural heritage, where traditions and beliefs have been passed down through generations. Among the various cultural and religious communities in India, Hinduism, one of the oldest religions in the world, holds a significant place. With millions of followers across the globe, Hinduism promotes peace, harmony, and spirituality.

 

The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting Hindu culture and heritage worldwide. Since 2006, GHHF has been actively working to create awareness about Hindu traditions and values, as well as making a difference in the lives of the underprivileged in India.

The mission of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation is multi-faceted. They aim to educate people about the rich cultural heritage of Hinduism, to promote interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance and to empower the disadvantaged sections of society through various welfare initiatives. One of the key objectives of the foundation is to raise awareness about the historical significance of Hindu temples and heritage sites. These sites are not only important from a religious point of view but also hold immense historical, architectural and cultural value. GHHF works towards preserving and protecting these sites from encroachment, neglect, and destruction.

Another among the main focuses of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation is its work towards uplifting impoverished communities in India. The organization recognizes the importance of helping those in need and improving their quality of life through various programs and projects. One of the key areas where GHHF is making a difference is in providing cultural, educational and healthcare services to underprivileged communities. The organization supports schools, educational programs and healthcare facilities in rural areas, ensuring that children have access to education and healthcare services that they might otherwise not have. By doing so, the foundation is empowering future generations and giving them the tools they need to break the cycle of ignorance and poverty.

Additionally, the GHHF is involved in various humanitarian aid projects, providing food, clothing and other essential supplies to those who are disadvantaged. Whether it is responding to natural disasters or supporting families in need, the organization strives to alleviate suffering and provide a helping hand to those facing difficult circumstances. Furthermore, GHHF works to promote cultural awareness and preservation by organizing events, festivals and lectures that celebrate Hindu heritage and traditions. Through these efforts, the foundation is not only preserving the rich cultural legacy of Hinduism but also fostering a sense of community and connection among people of all backgrounds.

Some of the notable initiatives & programs launched by GHHF are:-

  • Ghar Wapsi: The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) views “Ghar Wapsi” as a cultural and spiritual reclamation initiative aimed at restoring individuals to their Hindu heritage and identity. Recognizing the significance of preserving Hindu culture and traditions, GHHF supports and promotes Ghar Wapsi efforts, facilitating the return of those who have strayed from their ancestral faith due to historical circumstances or external influences. Through education, community support, and advocacy, GHHF endeavours to reconnect individuals with their roots, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their Hindu heritage while upholding the principles of religious freedom and choice. Aiming to prevent the conversion of Hindus to Christianity and reintegrate those who have converted, this initiative has successfully welcomed back thousands of Christians through dedicated efforts in six states (Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka & Tamil Nadu).

Ghar Wapsi         

  • Bala Samskar Kendras: The Bala Samskar Kendras initiative by the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation (GHHF) represents a concerted effort to instil Hindu values, culture, and spirituality in the younger generation. Recognizing the importance of nurturing Hindu identity from an early age, GHHF establishes Bala Samskar Kendras as centers for holistic education, encompassing moral teachings, cultural practices, and spiritual guidance. Through interactive sessions, storytelling, arts, and yoga, these Kendras provide a nurturing environment for children to learn about their heritage, develop a strong moral compass, and cultivate a sense of pride in their cultural roots. By empowering the youth with knowledge and understanding of Hindu philosophy and traditions, GHHF aims to shape future leaders who embody the principles of dharma, seva, and compassion, thus ensuring the continuity and flourishing of Hindu culture for generations to come.

Started in Oct, 2021, Bala Samskar Kendras are conducted in various                   locations in Andhra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Madhya Pradesh.             With total 5000 students enrolled, these Sunday schools for children,                 operating across 200 locations in various states and even in Bangladesh,             strive to enrich Hinduism among the younger generation, ensuring they               remain rooted in their cultural heritage.

       

  • Renovation of Grama Devatas: By revitalizing Grama Devata Temples, GHHF aims to reignite faith in local deities and promote the concept of Goddesses and Gods.

  • Save temples and Sponsor a Priest: To revive Temple culture, GHHF supports the employment of priests to reopen closed Temples, fostering religious sentiments and community engagement.
  • Combatting unauthorized religious Constructions: GHHF is actively engaged in legally pursuing court actions against unauthorized religious constructions, particularly those encroaching upon temple and government lands. Through concerted efforts and unwavering dedication, they aim to safeguard the cultural heritage and the sanctity of Mother India.
  • Annadanam Distributed to Flood Victims: Their commitment to serving those in need is commendable. During the times of crisis, amidst the pandemic and severe floods in Assam and Andhra, they provided Annadanam to over 10,000 flood victims. Over the years, they have collectively fed more than 200,000 individuals during the pandemic, ensuring that no one goes hungry during challenging times.

Annadanam Distribution           Annadanam Distribution

  • Distribution of Karthik Masa Puja Kits to Village Temples: For the past years, GHHF has been actively distributing Pooja kits to local Temples, enabling them to conduct Karthik Masa Puja rituals. Recently, they distributed 250 comprehensive Pooja kits containing essential items such as oil, cotton wicks, earthenware, rangoli color powders and incense sticks to numerous village Temples, fostering religious observance and community cohesion.
  • Gaushalas Support: Their commitment to animal welfare extends to supporting Gaushalas, with more than 20 assisted over the years. They have also forged a close partnership with the S3 Foundation, which houses approximately 180 Gir cows in a Gaushala located in Cachar, Assam and another Gaushala accommodating around 300 cows.
  • Community Activities: GHHF has undertaken various community-focused initiatives, including providing shelter, food and water to animals like cows, monkeys, dogs and birds during the scorching summer months. Additionally, they distributed Kashayam during the pandemic, built water tubs to quench the thirst of animals and provided nourishing refreshments like buttermilk, panakam and water to more than 20,000 individuals in a year alone.

  • Environmental Conservation:- GHHF is deeply committed to fostering environmental conservation and sustainability practices across rural communities, recognizing the integral connection between environmental health and human well-being. Through various initiatives and programs, GHHF endeavours to instil a sense of environmental stewardship and responsibility among rural inhabitants, empowering them to protect and preserve their natural surroundings for future generations. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize soil health, water conservation and biodiversity preservation. Additionally, GHHF actively engages in afforestation efforts, advocating for the planting of native trees and restoration of degraded ecosystems to enhance carbon sequestration and mitigate climate change impacts. By raising awareness, providing resources, and facilitating community-led initiatives, GHHF strives to create a healthier and more sustainable environment that benefits all living beings.

In addition to its welfare initiatives, the GHHF also works towards promoting interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance. By fostering understanding and respect among different religious communities, the foundation aims to build a more harmonious and peaceful society. Through conferences, seminars, and educational workshops, GHHF brings together people from diverse backgrounds to discuss issues related to religion, culture and spirituality. By promoting mutual respect and tolerance, the foundation strives to create a more inclusive and accepting society.

The Global Hindu Heritage Foundation’s work for the betterment of society is truly commendable. By promoting Hindu culture and heritage, supporting the underprivileged, and fostering interfaith dialogue, the foundation is making a significant difference in the lives of people in India and beyond. As we strive towards building a more equitable and compassionate world, organizations like GHHF serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. By upholding the values of compassion, service, and tolerance, the foundation sets an example for others to follow in creating a more just and harmonious society.

In conclusion, the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation’s tireless efforts to promote Hindu culture, support the marginalized, and foster interfaith harmony are a testament to the transformative power of humanitarian work. Through their commitment and dedication, the foundation continues to make a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

To create awareness about the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation and its impactful work, it is essential for us to amplify their message of saving the temples and other cultural heritage of Hinduism and reach a wider audience. Through social media campaigns, community outreach programs, and collaborations with like-minded organizations, we can help raise visibility and support for their initiatives, ultimately making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. As we celebrate the work of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation and other humanitarian organizations, let us also reflect on our own roles in creating a more compassionate and equitable society. Whether through volunteering, advocacy or donations, each of us has the power to contribute towards positive change and make a difference in the world.

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