Book Reviewed: Gita For Children /A Teaching Tool for Elders by Swami Chinmayananda

Teaching the Word of God to Hindu children Bhagavadgita is the Song of Lord Krishna that has the message of dharma yoga, karma yoga and paths to reach Moksha (salvation). This book, intended for parents, is graciously written, and summarized by Swami Chinmayananda, one of the well-known and respected scholars of Vedanta philosophy of 20th century. Swamiji was the founding guru of Bala Vihar, and Shishu Vihar at his missions to inculcate in Hindu children a reverence for the Vedic heritage and inspire them to live with discipline. He intended to create self-confidence in serving their communities while learning the Sanatana Dharma. Bala Vihar is the Hindu equivalent of Sunday schools in a Christian church. The author summarizes each chapter of Bhagavadgita followed by exercises, questions and answers related to the teachings. These exercises are helpful as a learning tool to understand the message of Lord Krishna. The seed of god’s love as described by the author offer positive parenting solutions. John 3:16 is one of the most powerful verses of New Testament that figures often in Sunday schools. There are several hymns that enable and motivate children to learn the message of Bhagavadgita. Examples include hymns, 6:30; 10:8-10; 18:61; 18:65; 8:3; 2:20; 2:51; 10:20; and 4:42