Why NAMA?
Any focused effort to carry out study and service on a large scale needs an organization. In this context, NAMA is an organization which fosters the effort to understand the Srivaishnava heritage, culture and philosophy in relation to present times. This understanding has special significance to people raised in that background. With such an intention, NAMA can only become an additional resource, and not a hindrance to progress. We are similar to organizations like NASA (Sanketis), and Konkanis. The more we become focused on our specific heritage, the more we begin to better understand ourselves and appreciate others, thereby bringing about harmony.
How do you become a member of NAMA or renew your membership?
If you want to become a member, you can now use our online registration link or you can send a completed membership form, along with a check made out to NAMA, to the NAMA secretary, Smt.Jayanthi Anandalwar,39 Cummings rd, Monmouth Jct, NJ 08852.
Tel: (732)-390-4295. The types of membership and corresponding dues are given below:
Life – a one-time contribution of $100 (US)
Patron – a one-time contribution of $1,000 (US)
The membership form can also be downloaded from the NAMA Web Page.
How to get a copy of the NAMA directory?
Currently we are in the process of correcting our databases. We are planning to provide online access to all life members and Patrons.
How can I get more actively involved with NAMA?
Please identify your role in the Directory Entry Form as a participant or a coordinator or an organizer for any focus group listed in this newsletter or for any new Focus Group. Some of the activities can be performed at a national level whereas some are local in nature. Since many of these activities can be organized by using E-mail, please provide your E-mail address. You can also attend NAMA events when you visit other cities. Here are some ways you can get involved:
· A host, coordinator and participants are needed for our next proposed class on Internet, in New Jersey.
· Youth and adult volunteers are needed to take senior citizens to movies.
· Help is needed to put the newsletters on the Web Page
How do you access the NAMA Web Page? What are the benefits?
If you have a computer at home with a modem, you can get online access to the Internet
Why are there no telephone numbers on the NAMA Web Pages?
This is to protect our members as the Internet is a free forum easily accessible by anyone in the world.
How do you get NAMA E-mail ? What are the benefits of NAMA E-mail ?
NAMA E-mail is sent to all NAMA members and potential members having E-mail addresses. The informal messages keep them informed of various events and activities across the country, as well as the latest news relating to NAMA. If you want to be included in the list, please send your E-mail address to bchari@optonline.net
Why is the name NAMA associated with Ayyangars, if it is open to everyone? Can the name be changed to Vaishnavas?
Yes, this is a Srivaisnava organization.
The name NAMA evolved as a reflection of our goals of celebrating Ayyangar festivals, preserving the cultural traditions associated with our festivals, and providing, in a limited way, the support structure of an extended family. For example, many students who are far from home, whether their parents are in India or in the US, can celebrate festivals in this extended family environment.
Currently, we have several non-Ayyangars who are active members of NAMA and participate in our cultural traditions. During the Gokulashtami celebrations in New Jersey, a group of Maharashtrian children and teenagers presented a well-received dance program. We also have several members who are non-SriVaishnavas.
The NAMA directory is being maintained to help members identify relatives across the country and we have received excited messages and calls from people who have discovered friends and relatives through NAMA.
The word NAMA simply stands for the feet of Lord Narayana, which we proudly wear on our foreheads, and the letters in NAMA can not be ampilfied any further. The symbol is gloriously displayed in all SriVaishnava temples – in perticular the idol of Lord Sri Venktesara ( Balaji) at the famous temple in Tirupati, India, is decorated with the NAMA symbol studded with diamonds. For an explanation of the significance of NAMA, click on the symbols of NAMA on our home page.
Finally, we want to emphasize again that our primary goal is to provide a forum for our members to understand, appreciate and preserve our traditions and culture.
Why are matrimonial services included in NAMA?
This is a very popular service as many people have called on behalf of themselves, their children and their friends. They see it as a valuable vehicle for making contact with others in the community who have similar aims. NAMA will continue to provide any service that is beneficial to its members
How to become an Orthodox (Srivaishnava) Ayyangar?
By obtaining Samasramanam through five Samskaras (rituals) under the tutelage of a guru or an Acharya, one may become an orthodox Ayyangar.
The Samskaras are:
1) Taapa (getting the sanka and chakra imprinted on the shoulders)
2) Pundra (also referred to as Namas or the application of twelve divine marks )
3) Daasa (accepting to engage in divine service)
4) Mantras (recital of specific mantras, namely moola, dwaya and charma slokas)
5) Yaaga (internal and external worship).
