Seva - The joy of giving

Sevá is a term in the Sanskrit language that describes selfless service. 'Selfless' means to give without expecting anything in return.

Still, it is common to hear a business advertise itself with slogans such as 'At your service since 2001' or 'Service excellence'.

Although this can be understood as service, as in an activity somebody provides, it certainly is not Sevá because the business will expect something in return for their activities. Sevá happens when there is no interest in gaining something, giving for the pleasure of giving itself.

Here at Baan Unrak, we believe firmly in the importance of Sevá, especially in its role in the personal development of our children.

There are four different types of Sevá, which relate to the personal tendencies of every individual.

Shúdrocita sevá, performing activities that require physical labor, for example, preparing a construction site, cleaning, or maintenance of technical facilities.

Ksatriyocita sevá can be described as a security service: Protecting or rescuing people, animals or plants in danger, or using one's strength or physical capabilities to move somebody from the wrong path to the right path.

Vaeshyocita sevá is economic service, putting resources at people's disposal, especially food and water.

And finally, viprocita sevá, which translates to intellectual service, helping mankind in its mental and spiritual development.

All four types of service are practiced here! We teach the children the importance of giving and the joy of helping others.

Surely, the children also have to learn how to maintain themselves in a society where "money makes the world go round", but especially for them, being raised with resources that often come from generous donors, it is essential to develop an attitude of giving back something to the society, be it with the path they choose for their future, or practicing Sevá.

With gratitude and love,

The Baan Unrak Team