On Saturday, June 20th, Shri Surya Narayan
Mandir held a joint celebration of Father's Day and of Hari Om Sharan's life.
This cultural extravaganza was a fundraising venture in aid of erecting a bust
of Hari Om Sharanjiin Diwali Nagar,
Trinidad. It also served as a memorial service for Shri Prakash Gossaiji. The
program was chaired by Amar Persaud, the president of Shri Surya Narayan
Mandir, and co-sponsored by Anoop Dhanpat, a chela of Dadaji.
Opening remarks and prayers were done by
Spiritual Leader Pandit Ram, who spoke about the importance of keeping our
dharma alive, and how Dadaji has done such in the Caribbean and for Hindus and
bhajan-lovers the world over. Panditji remarked how fortunate he was to have
performed Dadaji's das gaath and Shraad ceremonies at the mandir last year. He
also spoke in memory of Prakash Gossai and his contributions to the Guyanese
Hindu community, especially in New York City.