VHPA Balvihar Atlanta Food Drive – Anna Daan

VHPA Atlanta Balvihar organized a food drive to uphold the Hindu tradition of अन्न-दान or food donation during the Pitru Paksha or Shraddh Paksha. Hindus observe Pitru Paksha to honor our ancestors, pay homage to them, and pray for shanti for the departed souls. A donation of 5 cans of non-perishable, vegetarian food items (about $10) per student/family was suggested. 

Pitru Paksh/Shraddh Paksh started on 18 September this year and ends on 2 October. Food donations were collected on 29 September during Balvihar. At the start of Hindu Heritage Month, Balvihar, on behalf of the VHPA Atlanta chapter, will donate all the collection to a reputable food bank, with a note that this is a Hindu tradition. 

We believe this will be a positive contribution of the Hindu-American community to American society. It is also a great way to uphold our Hindu traditions, inculcate Hindu sanskar in our children and most importantly, a good opportunity to talk to children about family members, traditions and the Hindu Heritage Month celebration.