I am fortunate to be associated with the Gurukulam from its infancy. I had the rare privilege of staying at the boys Gurukulam. A typical day starts with children waking up at 5 am doing their morning ablutions and sharp at 6 am assemble for prayers. The chanting is led by Swamiji for about an hour full-throated. They line up for blessings and then for the next hour, do their chores, washing clothes, watering the garden etc. At 8 am they sit down for breakfast, a simple nutritious vegetarian meal. A notable feature is that Swamiji and the visitors sit with the children and have the same meal. After breakfast the children get ready and go to their respective schools some primary and others middle school. Over the years most children perform above average and some are going on to successful careers. The Gurukulam combines a strong foundation in religious studies along with secular studies that has enabled number of children to go onto job oriented higher studies and others get gainful employment. A year ago Swamiji inaugurated a Gurukulam for young girls. Some are coming from very remote parts of Kerala. I feel that by giving them this opportunity, the girls will outperform and that will be a good thing for the Society.
