Registration for the Fall 2026 session of Chinmaya Mission New York Downtown Bala Vihar in Chelsea is now open!   Bala Vihar offers weekly Hindu spiritual and cultural classes rooted in Sanātana Dharma for the entire family — from toddlers (age 2) through high schoolers — along with Parent Satsang with our resident Vedanta teacher.   🗓 Saturdays | 4:00 PM – 5:45 PM📍 Chelsea, Manhattan✨ Classes begin September 2026   Through bhajans, stories, interactive discussions, and festival celebrations, students gain a deeper connection to Hindu culture, values, and spirituality in a fun and engaging environment.   Students develop:•⁠  ⁠Confidence & leadership•⁠  ⁠Empathy & teamwork•⁠  ⁠Connection to Hindu culture & values•⁠  ⁠Spiritual understanding rooted in Indian traditions   Spaces are limited, so we encourage early registration!   For more information please fill out this inquiry form by clicking the green Sign Up button or email us at downtown.registrations@chinmayanewyork.org.

Shishu Vihars are a safe and nurturing space for infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers to start their Bala Vihar journey. It is a parent & me class.   The goal of the curriculum is to promote: - Strong bonds between parent and child through active engagement in class - Familiarity with the God and Goddess forms in Hindu Culture - Propagation of the common childhood stories for the Gods and Goddesses - Cultural learning through songs (styled after familiar rhymes) and arts and crafts  

Shishu Vihars are a safe and nurturing space for infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers to start their Bala Vihar journey. It is a parent & me class. The goal of the curriculum is to promote: Strong bonds between parent and child through active engagement in class Familiarity with the God and Goddess forms in Hindu Culture Propagation of the common childhood stories for the Gods and Goddesses Cultural learning through songs (styled after familiar rhymes) and arts and crafts

Shishu Vihar is a safe and nurturing space for preschoolers to start their Bala Vihar journey. This is a parent & me class.   The goal of the curriculum is to promote: - Strong bonds between parent and child through active engagement in class - Familiarity with the God and Goddess forms in Hindu culture - Propagation of the common childhood stories for the Gods and Goddesses - Cultural learning through songs (styled after familiar rhymes) and arts and crafts

Shishu Vihar is a safe and nurturing space for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to begin their Bala Vihar journey. This is a parent-and-child class, designed to foster connection, shared learning, and joyful exploration. The curriculum offers: A gentle and joyful introduction to the Gods and Goddesses in the Hindu tradition Beloved Hindu childhood stories shared in a playful and engaging way Cultural learning through songs (inspired by familiar rhymes), hymns and chants, along with arts and crafts and fun games Children (with their parents) will begin to build a joyful connection to Hindu culture, stories, and values in a warm, nurturing environment.

ABC Safari is aimed at children in Kindergarten and 1st Grade The goal of the curriculum is to teach children: Simple values and discipline through the English alphabet The fun of living by these values and discipline The Chinmaya Mission Pledge and the meaning, message, and values it imparts

ABC Safari is aimed at children in Kindergarten.   The goal of the curriculum is to teach children: Simple values and discipline through the English alphabet The fun of living by these values and discipline The Chinmaya Mission Pledge and the meaning, message, and values it imparts

Bala Ramayana is aimed at children in Grade K and Grade 1. Children learn the story of the Ramayana and develop an understanding of the values that Śri Rama lived by. Coloring and drawing scenes, and following the trails of Śri Rama's journey with events and stories, inspire and inculcate the imagination.

 The goal of Bala Ramayana is to: Narrate the story of Rama as told by Tulsidas Inspire the children to be like Rama

Bala Bhagavatam is aimed at children in Grades 2 and 3.  Through the stories of different avatars of Lord Śri Viṣṇu, children learn to own up their own actions, learn to ask for only what they need, and not secessarily what they desire.

The curriculum of Bala Ramayana includes: Narrate the story of Rama as told by Tulsidas Inspire the children to be like Rama This will be a combined Kindergarten and 1st grade class. The full curriculum for Kindergarten and 1st grade is ABC Safari and Bala Ramayana and will be taught over 2 DTBV academic years.

The goal of this curriculum is to: Impart and instill the faith that Sri Hanuman will protect them and dispel their fears Inspire them to adopt the virtuous qualities that made Hanuman Ji great Teach them to chant the Dhyana Sloka and the Hanuman Chalisa Explain the meaning of the Dhyana Sloka and the Hanuman Chalisa

ABC Safari is a joyful and engaging introduction for young children to begin exploring values along with early self-discipline through the Bala Vihar journey. The curriculum offers: A playful introduction to simple values, virtues, and positive habits through the Bala Vihar Alphabet Opportunities to experience the joy of living these values in everyday life Familiarity with the Chinmaya Mission Pledge, along with its meaning, message, and values This is a combined Kindergarten and 1st Grade class. The full curriculum—ABC Safari and Bala Rāmāyaṇa—is covered over two DTBV academic years. Children begin to build a foundation of values, positive habits, and cultural understanding in a supportive and engaging environment.

The goal of Sri Hanuman The Super Superman is to: Impart and instill the faith that Sri Hanuman will protect them and dispel their fears Inspire them to adopt the virtuous qualities that made Hanuman Ji great Teach them to chant the Dhyana Sloka and the Hanuman Chalisa Explain the meaning of the Dhyana Sloka and the Hanuman Chalisa

The curriculum of Bala Bhagavatam includes: Learn about Lord Vishnu and his avatars Narrate the story of each of the Dasavatara’s Encourage, through the stories of Lord Vishnu, to own up to your own actions and ask for only what you need, and not necessarily what you desire This will be a combined Grade 2 and Grade 3 class. The full curriculum for Grade 2 and Grade 3 includes Sri Hanuman The Super Superman and Bala Bhagavatam, taught over 2 DTBV academic years.

The goal of Bala Bhagavatam is to: Learn about Lord Vishnu and his avatars Narrate the story of each of the Dasavataras   Encourage, through the stories of Lord Vishnu, for children to own up to their own actions and ask for only what they need, and not necessarily what they desire.

Super Hanumān is a joyful and inspiring curriculum for 2nd and 3rd Grade students, introducing them to the strength, devotion, and courage of Śrī Hanumān. The curriculum offers: Stories of Śrī Hanumān that build faith, courage, and a sense of protection Inspiration to reflect on and embody the virtuous qualities that make Hanumān great Opportunities to learn and chant the Dhyāna Śloka and the Hanumān Cālīsā An introduction to the meaning and significance of these prayers This is a combined 2nd and 3rd Grade class. The full curriculum—Super Hanumān and Bala Bhāgavatam—is covered over two DTBV academic years. Children begin to build faith, confidence, and an appreciation for devotion and values in a supportive and engaging environment.

Krishna Krishna/My Twenty Four Teachers are aimed at children in Grades 4.  The goal of My Twenty-Four Teachers is to teach that: Who we are and what we know is because of our teachers and that we are indebted to them We learn only when our attitude is proper; attitude makes us a good disciple Anyone or anything can be our teacher, if we have humility and the right attitude to recognize them, and Nature is one of our greatest teachers

The curriculum** of Krsna, Krsna Everywhere includes: Inspire children to be virtuous and happy through Krsna’s stories Inspire children to introspect Recite Krsna stories from his birth to his role in the Mahabharata   The curriculum** of My Twenty-Four Teachers includes: Who we are and what we know is because of our teachers and that we are indebted to them We learn only when our attitude is proper; attitude makes us a good disciple Anyone or anything can be our teacher, if we have humility and the right attitude to recognize them Nature is one of our greatest teachers

Bala Vihar students will be learning the curriculum of both classes throughout the year.   The goal of Krsna, Krsna Everywhere is to: Inspire children to be virtuous and happy through Krsna’s stories Inspire children to introspect Recite Krsna stories from his birth to his role in the Mahabharata   The goal of My Twenty-Four Teachers is to teach that: Who we are and what we know is because of our teachers and that we are indebted to them We learn only when our attitude is proper; attitude makes us a good disciple Anyone or anything can be our teacher, if we have humility and the right attitude to recognize them Nature is one of our greatest teachers

The curriculum of Symbolism in Hinduism includes: Explain the ideal that murti-s (idols) represent Explain symbolism of the Hindu deities: Ganesha, Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddesses, Sri Krsna, and Sri Rama Explain the significance of traditional religious festivals attributed to the above deities and celebrate them This will be a combined Grade 4 and Grade 5 class. The full curriculum for Grade 4 and Grade 5 includes Symbolism In Hinduism and Krsna, Krsna Everywhere, taught over 2 DTBV academic years.

The curriculum** of Yato Dharmah Tato Jayah includes: Description: The main theme, as the title Yato Dharmaḥ, Tato Jayaḥ suggests, is to teach children that where there is Dharmaḥ, there is victory in life; one must follow Dharmaḥ. The text dives deep into teaching what is Dharmaḥ, how to live by Dharmaḥ, along with the story of Mahābhāratam and a comparative analysis of the main characters and their Dharmaḥ in the epic.

The goal of Symbolism in Hinduism class teaching is to: Explain the ideal that idols represent Explain symbolism of the Hindu deities: Ganesha, Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddesses, Sri Krsna, and Sri Rama Explain the significance of traditional religious festivals attributed to the above deities and celebrate them

Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Everywhere / My Twenty-Four Teachers is an engaging and reflective curriculum for 4th and 5th Grade students, helping them deepen their understanding of values, learning, and the role of a teacher in their lives. The curriculum offers: Inspiring stories of Śrī Kṛṣṇa—from his birth through his role in the Mahābhārata—that encourage virtuous living and inner reflection Opportunities for introspection through the lessons and examples found in Kṛṣṇa’s life An introduction to the idea that who we are and what we know is shaped by our teachers, along with the gratitude we owe them Exploration of the teaching of the 24 teachers, as shared by the sage Dattatreya, showing that anyone or anything can be a teacher when approached with humility and the right attitude Reflection on nature as one of our greatest teachers This is a combined 4th and 5th Grade class. The full curriculum—Kṛṣṇa, Kṛṣṇa Everywhere / My Twenty-Four Teachers and Symbolism in Hinduism—is covered over two DTBV academic years. Students begin to develop a deeper appreciation for learning, cultivate humility, and recognize the importance of right attitude in becoming true seekers.

Adjusted Description The curriculum for India: The Sacred Land imparts: An understanding of why India is regarded as a sacred land and what India stands for Reverence for Mother India and her glorious heritage Insight into the goal of life as revealed in the scriptures and lived by the saints Clarity that by “walking in the footsteps of the saints,” the goal of life can be attained By the end of the course, students will develop a deeper appreciation for India’s spiritual heritage, recognize the values embodied by great saints, and gain practical inspiration for living a purposeful and value-centered life.

The curriculum for India, The Sacred Land imparts: The knowledge of why India is the Sacred Land, and what India stands for Reverence for Mother India, and her glorious heritage An understanding of the goal of life revealed in scriptures and lived by our saints Clarity that by “Walking the Footsteps of the Saints,” the goal of life can be achieved

Key to Success is a thoughtful and engaging curriculum that helps students begin to understand themselves and the role of the mind and intellect in living a meaningful and successful life. The curriculum offers: An introduction to self-knowledge as the foundation for success An understanding that the knowledge we gain depends on the refinement of the mind and intellect Opportunities to explore ways to quiet and steady the mind and intellect Guidance on living by noble values in daily life Chanting and reflection on the Vibhīṣaṇa Gītā, including the symbolism of the Dharma Chariot as a guide for right thinking and inner strength This is a combined Grades 6, 7, and 8 class. The full curriculum—India, My Sacred Land, Key to Success, and Mahābhārata—is covered over three DTBV academic years. Students begin to reflect more deeply on their thoughts and actions, developing clarity, discernment, and a stronger alignment with their values.

The goal of the Key to Success curriculum is to teach: Self-Knowledge is the Key to Success The Knowledge we gain depends upon the caliber of our instrument – mind and intellect The importance of quietening our mind and intellect to sharpen our instrument The way to quieten our mind and intellect, and live by the noble values The way to ride the Dharma Chariot, to succeed, and be happy in life

The Mahabharata as a Prelude to The Bhagavad Gita is aimed at children in Grade 8.   The goal of the curriculum is to: Learn the epic story of the Mahabharata Discuss the complex moral predicaments presented through the story and how they pertain to our lives Introduce the key learnings of the Mahabharata as narrated in the Bhagavad Gita

The curriculum for Gita, Seva and Leadership program includes: Prominent points of all chapters of the Bhagavad Gita are brought out in a methodical manner to enable the youth to learn and apply them in our lives. Youth are taught through flowcharts and other unique approaches, the logical sequence of the message of the Gita. Seva and Leadership opportunities  This class will combine is for Grades 9 through 12. The full curriculum for this Seva and Leadership class includes Gita and Hindu Culture, taught over 4 DTBV academic years.

The Gita, Seva and Leadership program is aimed at children in 9th - 12th grade. The program for High School students is comprised of 4 components: Class will cover an understanding of the teachings of the Gita and discussions on how to practice the learnings. Seva projects that are conceived, planned, and executed by the students (projects will be worked on during class time). Bala Vihar Leadership opportunities through teaching the younger classes: 9th - 10th graders will have 2- 3 opportunities during the Bala Vihar year and these will occur during class time. Gatherings with Shubani ji to discuss and reflect on the concepts from class, seva projects and classroom teaching.   Please note: For 9th - 10th graders, Gita class and teaching days are mandatory; seva and gatherings are optional and based on interest and availability. 11th - 12th graders will have the opportunity to choose if they would like to be a TA for the year (which will be assigned to them) OR attend Gita class.

Gītā, Sevā, and Leadership is a reflective and application-based program for high school students, guiding them to understand and live the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita in a meaningful and relevant way. The curriculum offers: A structured exploration of the key teachings from all chapters of the Gītā, presented in a clear and methodical way Opportunities to understand the logical flow of the Gītā’s message through tools such as flowcharts and guided frameworks Sevā and leadership opportunities that encourage responsibility, initiative, and service This is a combined Grades 9 through 12 class. The full curriculum of the Gītā is covered over four DTBV academic years. Students begin to develop clarity in thinking, a sense of purpose, and the ability to apply timeless teachings to modern life.

The Ramayana is a timeless epic filled with dharma, devotion and wisdom. In this course, the students will explore the story of the Ramayana, the deeper symbolism of each character and life-changing lessons that they can apply here and now.

The main theme, as the title Yato Dharmaḥ, Tato Jayaḥ suggests, is to teach children that where there is Dharmaḥ, there is victory in life; one must follow Dharmaḥ. The text dives deep into teaching what is Dharmaḥ, how to live by Dharmaḥ, along with the story of Mahābhāratam and a comparative analysis of the main characters and their Dharmaḥ in the epic.

The Bhagavad Gita is a timeless masterpiece which is still very applicable in today's world. Through this course, the students will explore the different chapters of the Bhagavad Gita and how to apply them in daily life. Topics in this course include: facing challenges, discovering our real selves, the essence of karma yoga, understanding the goal of life, being our best selves etc. 

The TA program is aimed at eligible children in the 12th grade. TA’s will: - Co-teach a class with another teacher - Need to keep a minimum of 70% attendance in the Bala Vihar year - Engage children in the curriculum  - Share stories and experiences that will resonate with the students - Assist the classroom teacher in any activities or curriculum development

Brahmacharini Shubhani Chaitanya will be conducting this program in hybrid format. This program will be held in person, but will also be accessible online.   The location details for in person sessions will be shared with registered participants closer to the start date.   The Zoom link to join online sessions will be sent to registered participants.   The Essence of Bhagavad Gita class is specially catered to young college students and professionals. It deals with practical applications of selected verses of Bhagavad Gita shedding light on topics like career selection, work dynamics, building relationships, managing emotions with an emphasis on seeking deeper. This class is conducted in a discourse and discussion format which inspires youth to reflect on the subject matter.   Audience This class is for Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (18-28) and Chinmaya Setukaris. Chinmaya Setukaris are the bridge builders between the youth (CHYK) and Bala Vihar parents and more senior members of the Chinmaya Mission family. Typically in the age group of 29-40, this group is characterized by outgrowing youthful energy and seekers interested in transforming ideas into practical mainstream life realities.   Book Please follow the link below to purchase book, https://www.chinmayapublications.com/bhagavad-gita-verses-meaning 

Life is about having a rhythm to fill our bodies, minds and hearts and that rhythm should be the sound of God.  In light of this, our Online Stotram chanting classes will be held on Saturdays from 3:30-4:15pm conducted by Mala Gupta.   Learn to chant different stotrams and immerse in devotion for the Divine.   These sessions will be conducted online via Zoom video conferencing. The Zoom link to join the online session will be sent to registered participants.    Book can be purchased through the link below: https://www.chinmayapublications.com/search?q=book+of+hymns    The aim is to get each one memorized or very proficient in chanting it. We will perfect one and move to the next stotram. 

Brahmacharini Shubhani Chaitanya will be conducting Vedanta Study Group online via Zoom video conferencing. The Zoom link to join the online session will be sent to registered participants.   The Essence of Bhagavad Gita class will cover key topics of the Bhagavad Gita based on the book – Art of Man-Making, a dynamic series of talks by Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda. With clarity, humor, and piercing insight, Swamiji urges us to awaken our inner strength, live with purpose, and serve the world with fearless nobility.    Audience This class is for women seekers of all ages and backgrounds combining elements of discourse and discussion. It's a safe and sacred space to explore Vedantic texts as it relates to the life of women.   Book Follow the link below to purchase book,  https://www.chinmayapublications.com/art-of-man-making-part-1

Dr. Jatin Kapadia will be conducting Bhagavad Gita Study Group online via Zoom video conferencing. The Zoom link to join the online session will be sent to registered participants.    Lord Krishna explains the three guṇas—Sattva (purity, harmony), Rajas (activity, passion), and Tamas (inertia, ignorance)—which bind the individual to the cycle of birth and death. He teaches how these qualities influence our thoughts, actions, and destiny, and how one can rise beyond their sway through steadfast devotion and knowledge. The chapter culminates with the vision of the Gunatita—one who transcends all gunas and abides in the Self, free and fulfilled.   To purchase a copy of the book, please visit: (For each chapter individually) https://www.chinmayapublications.com/geetas-upanishads (For the Holy Geeta complete with all chapters) https://www.chinmayapublications.com/bhagavad-gita-holy-geeta

Dr. Jatin Kapadia will be conducting Vedanta Study Group online via Zoom video conferencing. The Zoom link to join the online session will be sent to registered participants.   Aparoksha Anubhuti (“Direct Experience of the Self”) is a Vedantic treatise traditionally attributed to Adi Shankaracharya. It serves as a practical guide for seekers to move from intellectual understanding to direct, experiential realization of the Self. Through reasoning, discrimination, and meditation, it reveals the illusory nature of the world and affirms the ever-present reality of Brahman, which shines as one’s own true nature.   Follow the link below to purchase book, https://www.chinmayapublications.com/tattva-vivekah 

Bhaja Govindam by Swami Chinmayananda is a commentary on the famous devotional composition of Adi Shankaracharya. With clarity and warmth, Swami Chinmayananda unpacks each verse, which urges seekers to turn away from fleeting worldly pursuits and seek the eternal truth through devotion to God and self-knowledge. The book blends practical guidance for daily living with Vedantic wisdom, showing how Shankara’s call to “seek Govinda” is a timeless reminder to live with purpose, clarity, and spiritual focus.   Audience: This is for those who like to gain a clear foundation on Vedantic concepts. This online study group will be led by Anju Arora and the text will be studied in a discussion and interactive format. The Zoom link to join the online session will be sent to registered participants.   Please follow the link to purchase book: https://www.chinmayapublications.com/bhaja-govindam

The Gayatri Mantra is the essence of the entire Veda. It is considered our nitya karma/ daily karma to perform this japa every morning.  Every Sunday, Brni. Shubhani will lead a Gayatri Japa meditation wherein 108 Gayatri Mantras will be chanted followed by a meditation.   All sessions will be conducted online via Zoom. Meeting link will be provided to registered participants.   Audience This is OPEN to ALL. Although most seekers who attend this have gone through the Gayatri Japa class under Brni. Shubhani, those who are new may also join this to start a spiritual sadhana.   Book https://www.chinmayapublications.com/search?q=tune+in+the+mind

Learn to chant Bhagavad Gita from the start with the correct pronunciation.  This is the perfect way to enjoy and deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. If you aren't part of our Monday Bhagavad Gita class (explanation of each verse), you can sign up here.   You can also catch up on the missed talks in our Chinmaya Mission New York youtube channel here.

Learn to chant Bhagavad Gita from the start with the correct pronunciation.  This is the perfect way to enjoy and deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. If you aren't part of our Monday Bhagavad Gita class (explanation of each verse), you can sign up here.   You can also catch up on the missed talks in our Chinmaya Mission New York youtube channel here.

Dr. Jatin Kapadia will be conducting Bhagavad Gita Study Group in person at the Vaishnav temple on Sunday mornings.    Lord Krishna explains the discipline of a true yogi—one who lives in moderation, free from selfish desires, balanced in success and failure. The chapter culminates in the glory of meditation, where the mind is stilled and the yogi abides in the Self. Among all yogis, Krishna declares the highest to be the one devoted to Him with unwavering faith.    To purchase a copy of the book, please visit: (For each chapter individually) https://www.chinmayapublications.com/geetas-upanishads   (For the Holy Geeta complete with all chapters) https://www.chinmayapublications.com/bhagavad-gita-holy-geeta If you have questions please contact Kartick Kalaimani at qlibalavihar@chinmayanewyork.org

Anju Arora will be conducting a Self Unfoldment study group in person at the Master’s School (in Westchester) on Sunday mornings.    To understand and appreciate Vedanta better, we begin with the introductory book of Self Unfoldment by Swami Chinmayananda. We often underestimate the study of any introductory book, because we are familiar with a lot of the terms due to our background. It is only when we discuss and dive deeper, we realize how many questions we still have about our true nature. Join us on a deeper journey to the Inner Self.    Our Gurudev, Swami Chinmayananda, expounds upon the fundamentals of Vedanta through His  lucid, exhaustive, clear, and logical language. Through the study of this book, seekers will build a strong foundation for further Vedantic study. In fact, one can even consider this book a complete manual to unfold themself and understand the true heart of Vedanta. 

Learn to chant Bhagavad Gita from the start with the correct pronunciation.  This is the perfect way to enjoy and deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. If you aren't part of our Monday Bhagavad Gita class (explanation of each verse), you can sign up here.   Practice chanting the Bhagavad Gita with experienced learners and improve pronunciation, clarity and familiarity.   You can also catch up on the missed talks in our Chinmaya Mission New York youtube channel here.

Learn to chant Bhagavad Gita from the start with the correct pronunciation.  This is the perfect way to enjoy and deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita. If you aren't part of our Monday Bhagavad Gita class (explanation of each verse), you can sign up here.   Learn to chant the Bhagavad Gita verse by verse with the correct pronunciation and tone.   You can also catch up on the missed talks in our Chinmaya Mission New York youtube channel here.

As part of the celebrations for 75 years of Chinmaya Mission, Gayathri ji will be leading classes to teach Chapter 15 of Bhagavad Gita titled Purushottama Yoga on Wednesdays.    Learn to chant Chapter 15 with proper pronunciation. This is the perfect way to enjoy and deepen our understanding of the Bhagavad Gita.