C  M  B  V :  Chinmaya Bala Vihar

By the grace of the Lord and the blessings of Pujya Gurudev (His Holiness Swami Chinmayananda, the founding father of Chinmaya Mission), Chinmaya Bala Vihar, Chinmaya Mission's world-renowned program of spiritual and cultural Vedantic learning for children remains one of the most exceptional and unique to date. Pujya Gurudev conceived and coined the term "Bala Vihar," and set its structure and syllabus for optimail learning.

Under the guidance of Swamini Akhilananda, the spiritual growth of CMBV students and teachers remains the key focus. Chinmaya Mission's detailed teachers' manuals and exclusive training resources provide a structured syllabus of study and creative methods of learning. All CMBV parents are highly encouraged to participate in the simultaneously held Chinmaya Study Groups, so that they can spiritually grow and unfold with their child.

We welcome all students, of all ages and backgrounds, to our CM Vedantic classes and activities, which promote individual and total spiritual growth through knowledge, devotion, service. We look forward to another year of love, learning, and laughter with you. View CMBV flyer. 

To request Chinmaya Mission classes in your area or for specific questions, e-mail us. Hari Om!

CMBV Syllabus

Chinmaya Mission's detailed teachers' manuals and exclusive training resources provide a structured syllabus of study and creative methods of learning.

   ABC of Vedanta: Students learn a good value for each alphabet (A is for ambition, B is for brotherhood, C is for cleanliness, etc). View a sample lesson.

   Bala Ramayana: Students learn the historical epic, Ramayana, the story of Shri Rama.

   Superhero Hanuman: Students learn the dhyana-shloka and qualities of Shri Hanuman to be imbibed. They then learn chanting the Hanuman Chalisa and are explained the meaning of the verses and the glories of Hanumanji.

   Bala Bhagavatam: In Part 1, students learn the enchanting and value-based stories of the dashavataras, or ten renowned incarnations of Lord Vishnu. In Part 2, students dive into the joyful stories of Lord Krishna and the eye-opening teachings of an avadhuta's 24 teachers. View a sample lesson from "My 24 Teachers."

Symbolism in Hinduism: Students learn the significance of the prominent symbols seen in the many forms of God worshipped in Hinduism.

India, the Sacred Land: Students learn about the glories of India in various fields and personages, from historical figures to art forms to monuments to literature, and more.

Key to Success and PO Box Mr GOD: Students learn verses from the renowned scripture, Shri Ramacharita-manasa or Tulasi Ramayana, the meaning of each verse, and the values taught in each verse. "Key to Success" focuses on the Dharma Chariot, as described by Lord Rama to Vibhishana. "PO Box Mr GOD" focuses on the 14 places in the heart where Lord Rama resides.

   Mahabharata: Students learn this literary and historical epic of India featuring the stories leading up to and including the Mahabharata War, where the main teaching is: "Where dharma is, there victory is."

   Hindu Culture: Students learn about the Vedas, philosophical principles, and religious practices of Hinduism.

   Shrimad Bhagavad Gita: Over two years, students learn the primary philosophical teachings, and their applications, of this most lauded and renowned epic of India that is evergreen and relevant even in modern day.

   Self-unfoldment: In this introductory class to Vedanta, students read and discuss the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, including its main concepts and terms.

Class Materials and Attire
Bookbag
My Prayers book
All BV books per topics of study
Binder with 20 lined papers and 2 pens/2 pencils
Modest and comfortable clothing; no sleeveless tops

How do I register?

For families living 60+ miles away: Click here to register your children in Chinmaya Mission West's national eBV program (online Chinmaya Bala Vihar).

1) Review this year's Syllabus for all in-person CMBV classes.

2) Review and adhere to all CMBV Guidelines.

3) Complete and submit the online CMBV Registration Form and submit your payment as instructed on the Form. Registration is not complete until payment is received.

For specific questions, e-mail us. Hari Om.

Chinmaya Bala Vihar (CMBV) Motto: "Keep smiling!"

CMBV: Children in Grades K-12

· To inculcate in our children and youth a reverence for our ancient culture, and inspire them to live up to it with correct understanding
· To create self-confidence so they are able to serve and act cheerfully
· To generate personal discipline, dynamic leadership, and true affection in all their contacts
· To mold their capacity to brilliantly express their individuality
· To bring out their dormant faculties and detect defects so they can cultivate and improve their creative abilities
· To help our children and youth develop a healthy resistance against temptations in the atmosphere in which they grow
· To provide an atmosphere of growth that is filled with noble ideals, healthy emotions, and physical discipline.

Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYK) Motto: "Harnessing Dynamic Youth Potential"

CHYK: Youth, University Students, and Young Adults, ages 18-28 years   (Junior CHYK: Ages 15-17 years)

The purpose of CHYK, as given by Pujya Gurudev, is to harness dynamic potential. Gurudev said that today’s youth are not useless; they are used less. And that youth are not careless; they are cared for less than they should be. CHYK strives to unite youth and young adults by providing a forum to explore, discuss, and practice Vedanta while strengthening their lives in every endeavor. The objectives of CHYK include:

· To provide a spiritual forum and introduce the philosophy and message of Vedanta
· To unite members spiritually and professionally through satsanga and community service
· To build and develop future leaders

Chinmaya Study Group for Adults
Chinmaya Mission Motto: "To give the maximum amount of happiness to the maximum number of people for the maximum amount of time"

Study Groups are learning and discussion forums of Vedantic study for adults, and are free and open to the entire community. Thousands of spiritual seekers around the world meet in groups for spiritual study and growth, wherein Vedic wisdom, introductory and Upanishadic texts, and the Gita way of life are explored through the study of Vedanta. The opportunity to reflect and grow in inner strength and self-unfoldment through satsang, while learning Vedantic knowledge as taught by the ancient rishis of India, is invaluable.