The Hindu Spiritual & Service Foundation’s (HSSF) Hyderabad chapter’s annual Seva Pradarshini was inaugurated with grandeur on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds in Hyderabad. Set to be held from November 8–10, the event will highlight the collective efforts of spiritual and social service organizations, NGOs, and dedicated individuals from across India.
Sri Sri Sri Tridandi Srimannarayana Ramanuja Chinna Jeeyar Swami, while delivering the keynote address , commended the event as a unique embodiment of Indian spiritual ethos. “This grand congregation reflects the Indian spirit. Our nation possesses a unique soul, and this exhibition is a testament to that,” he said, urging attendees to “encourage and support” initiatives that demonstrate the depth of Bharatiya values. Swami highlighted the ongoing challenges in Bharat’s education system, remarking, “Even after independence, a thoughtless education system continues, failing to instill a sense of self-reliance and pride.” He added that India, as a centre of Vedic wisdom, is naturally rich in resources, beauty, and taste, qualities showcased through HSSF’s efforts.
The organisers of HSSF 2024 Hyderabad noted that the event aims to bridge the gap between service and societal needs by uniting institutions that practice Bharatiyata and strive for universal welfare. Ravi, a member of the HSSF 2024 organising team, stated, “This platform upholds Bharatiya values while addressing the needs of society,” emphasising HSSF’s mission to strengthen the role of service in nation-building. Currently, there are 150 stalls showcasing various seva activities, with more expected to be added.
Sri Sthithikanthanananda Swami from Ramakrishna Mission, Vijayawada, praised the event’s focus on service (seva) as a path to divinity, recalling the teachings of great sages. “Our sages showed us the path of seva, a means for humanity to attain divinity,” he stated, drawing parallels to figures in Sanatana Dharma such as Dadhichi, King Shibi, and Rantideva, who epitomised selfless sacrifice. “This exhibition brings into focus individuals and institutions who serve society without expecting recognition,” he said. Swami also referenced Swami Ranganathananda’s teachings on seva as a means to eradicate ego, wishing success for events like Kanya Vandanam, Guru Vandanam, and Matru-Pitru Vandanam within the Seva Pradarshini.
In his address to the gathering, Sri Bhagayya, RSS Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini Sadasya, passionately highlighted the core values that define Bharatiya society. He described the HSSF 2024 Seva Pradarshini as “a true symbol of Bharat’s fundamental nature, its cultural philosophy, and its self-confidence.” Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Lord Krishna, the embodiment of service, Bhagayya emphasised that Indians, as his descendants, have always been the backbone of the nation’s dharmic activities. “Before British rule, poverty was virtually unknown in Bharat, and even during foreign invasions, our villages remained self-sufficient,” he pointed out, illustrating the enduring spirit of self-reliance. Bhagayya further shared a powerful example of India’s self-sufficiency, saying, “Until 1785, Tamil Nadu and Berhampur supported over a lakh schools, where people from all castes studied together.” He recognised the ongoing service of esteemed institutions such as Ramakrishna Math, Satya Sai Organisations, Mata Amritanandamayi Math, and Seva Bharati, highlighting that “the spirit of seva by Indians is celebrated worldwide.” He concluded by bringing a global perspective to the conversation, noting, “The spirit of service demonstrated by Indians is not confined to Bharat; it is evident in countries from the USA to Kenya, as showcased in the HSSF Seva Pradarshini.”
HSSF-IMCTF All India Coordinator Gunwant Singh Kothari shared insights on the foundation’s mission, explaining, “This exhibition highlights the spirit of service inherent in Hindu Dharma. We have organised similar melas across various states, emphasising HSSF’s outreach and dedication to selfless service.”
Andhra Pradesh’s former chief secretary, LV Subrahmanyam, who presided over the event, expressed concern about the lack of awareness among citizens about Bharat’s true history. He pointed out, “Despite being born as citizens, many lack awareness of our nation’s actual history. HSSF 2024 Seva Pradarshini represents our true citizenship by uniting individuals and institutions that provide selfless service.” He encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from the exemplary services showcased, affirming, “Even if unrecognised by the government, these efforts embody the spirit of true citizenship.”
The Seva Pradarshini continues to stand as a powerful symbol of Bharat’s unique spirit, spirituality, and commitment to social good, bringing together diverse communities for a common cause. The organisers praised the strong support from participants and vowed to further HSSF’s mission of promoting Bharatiya culture and service in society.
The event expects a turnout of around 5,000 students daily, accompanied by over 1,000 school management representatives. More than 120 spiritual and community service organizations have registered to participate in the fair, displaying their contributions to society through various service initiatives.
The HSSF 2024 is designed to showcase the various services that organisations provide, emphasizing that these services continue to play a vital role in life beyond the fairs. The participating organizations are classified under six themes highlighting their service activities: forest conservation, ecological preservation, environmental sustainability, family values, women’s honor, and patriotism.
