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On a chilly evening in November 2023, seven compassionate individuals in Melbourne came together under the ancient Hindu adage, "Vasudeva Kutumbakam"—the world is one family. They prepared and distributed 51 boxes of pasta to the homeless in Melbourne's CBD, igniting the inception of Dharma Down Under (DDU).
Our Journey Over the Past Year
Since that heartfelt beginning, DDU has blossomed into a vibrant community, uniting Australians from diverse backgrounds in spiritual, social, and service endeavors. Our accomplishments over the past year include:
Hosting Over 65 Events: Both online and in-person, these gatherings have attracted approximately 1,200 participants, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
- Seva: We've delivered more than 200 boxes of pasta and other necessities to individuals experiencing homelessness in Melbourne, embodying the spirit of selfless service.
- Facilitating 35+ Satsangs: These sessions have offered young Dharmic Australians opportunities for engaging discussions, meditation, and insights from esteemed guest speakers.
- Promoting Health and Well-being: Through our monthly run club, the community has collectively covered over 300 kilometers, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental health.
Our Vision for the Coming Year
Building upon this solid foundation, we aspire to elevate DDU's impact with several key initiatives:
Ram Navami Showcase: Our most ambitious event to date aims to celebrate Dharmic traditions through a rendition of the Ramayana, performances of classical Bharatiya arts like Bharatanatyam and Kathak, and a variety of instrumental and vocal presentations.
Water Safety Program: Addressing the concerning trend of drownings within the South Asian community, we plan to fund educational programs that enhance water safety awareness and skills.
Expanding Our Reach: By organising our signature satsangs in states beyond Victoria, we seek to preserve and promote our shared Dharmic heritage across Australia.
Join Us in Making a Difference
As articulated in the concluding Sukta of the Rig Veda:
"May we be united in our minds, may we be united in our purpose, and may there be no division among us, so we live together as one family."
From the rishis of the Rig Veda to our ancestors who safeguarded these traditions across millennia, Dharma has been passed down through devotion, service, and community. Today, that responsibility rests with us. Dharma Down Under is not just about engaging young people—it is about ensuring that the sacred wisdom, rituals, and values of our heritage continue to thrive in Australia for generations to come.
Organizer
Dharma Down Under
Organizer
Hughesdale, VIC