Named Viramandala (’Circle of Heroes’) a year ago by Bhante Sangharakshita, the team of Jayaraja, Sanghanath, Bodhiketu, Priyadaka, Paul Crosland and Silajala have raised a staggering £500,000 in 12 months. This will go to people in India in desperate need - it will mean thousands of Dalit children in India receiving an education, Dalit men and women gaining confidence and skills, and Ambedkarite Buddhists accessing the Dharma at last.
For some of the team the fundraising journey still continues, with Jayaraja, Sanghanath and Priyadaka remaining in the community as it becomes the 'Karuna Appeal Vihara'. Rather than a fixed commitment of one year, it will offer more flexible opportunities to men who want the challenge of fundraising. Jayaraja says:
“We invite any man who wants challenge, brotherhood, and deeper self-confidence and communication skills to contact us”.To find out more or for an informal chat contact Amalavajra on +44 (0)7722 530275 / amalavajra@karuna.org or Jayaraja on +44 (0)7588 831522 / jayaraja108@yahoo.co.uk
And Bodhiketu comments: “I have made new friendships for life. You’re welcome to join us for 6 weeks, 3 months or longer”.
Karuna offers three other ways to get involved with its work of fundraising as spiritual practice: women’s appeals, solo fundraising and telephone campaigns. To find out more visit www.appeals.karuna.org. And to learn how Karuna helps those in India check out their latest newsletter or visit www.karuna.org.
Karuna is a Triratna charity dedicated to raising funds in the UK and elsewhere. It works in partnership to help oppressed people in India develop the skills, dignity and confidence to transform their lives and take their rightful place in society.