KHM

Jai Ganesha!

Naavalan, who is here for a couple of weeks as part of the Taskforce, has been helping the monks with several projects around the monastery. One of his recent tasks was assisting Siddhidata Kulam by pressure washing the pathway leading to Iraivan Temple. This is an important duty because it is the main pathway visitors use to reach the temple. With the recent rainy weather, the path had become slippery in some areas, making it less comfortable to walk on. Thanks to Naavalan’s hard work, the pathway is now clean, much safer, and comfortable to walk without worrying about slipping. Thank you, Naavalan, for the wonderful job and your dedicated service!

Jai Ganesha!

Today, the Mathavasi of Siddhidata Kulam removed the old stove that has faithfully served us for the past 20 years. It has been an essential part of our monastery kitchen, supporting countless meals prepared with dedication and care over the years. Very soon, Eswaran Param and his team will arrive at the monastery to install the new induction stove. We are all eagerly looking forward to its installation and are excited to see how quickly and efficiently it performs. This modern upgrade is expected to make cooking easier, faster and more efficient. Our Chef Mani is especially excited to begin using the new stove and the monks are equally eager to experience the improvements it will bring to our daily kitchen activities. We are grateful for this much needed upgrade and look forward to many years of service from our new induction stove.

Jai Ganesha!

Satguru and Sannyasin Shanmuganathaswami traveled to London to attend the Saiva Conference Youth Sessions, where Satguru will be giving talks to the youth. Upon their arrival at London Airport, members of the local community warmly welcomed Satguru and Shanmuganathaswami before hosting them for lunch at Santhirapala’s home. Over the next few days, they will be participating in the conference.

Jai Ganesha!

Our latest issue of Hinduism Today — July/August/September 2026 — is out now! This issue embodies the harmony at the heart of Positive Discipline, with fourteen proven strategies for raising children without blame, shame or pain. Also inside: Nepal’s determined quest to reclaim its stolen sacred treasures; the slow restoration of Sri Lanka’s famed Tirukoneswaram Temple; and Thanjavur’s enduring gold-leaf art tradition. Plus: freeing kids from digital screens, the many uses of cardamom, cinnamon and cloves and how Paul Brunton brought Ramana Maharshi’s light to the West.

Jai Ganesha!

Satguru returned to the monastery two days ago after a visit to India, Malaysia, and Singapore with Shanmuganathaswami. During their trip, they attended several satsangs and gave talks. They also met with members, devotees, and those who had recently joined. We are so happy to have Satguru back with us after his long journey.

Jai Ganesha!

Recently, the Mathavasi of Siddhidata Kulam harvested long beans from our greenhouse. It has been a while since we last had long beans, and the monks of Siddhidata Kulam have been diligently trying to grow them. After much effort, they finally succeeded in cultivating and harvesting a healthy crop.

Below are some of the benefits of long beans:

Long beans (also called Yardlong Bean or asparagus beans) are nutritious and offer several health benefits:

🥗 Rich in nutrients

• Good source of vitamins A, C, and K
• Contains folate, important for cell growth and pregnancy
• Provides minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium

💚 Supports heart health

• High potassium content helps regulate blood pressure
• Fiber may help lower cholesterol levels

🌱 Aids digestion

• Contains dietary fiber that promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation
• Supports beneficial gut bacteria

⚖️ May help with weight management

• Low in calories and fat
• Fiber helps you feel full longer

🩸 Supports blood health

• Iron and folate contribute to red blood cell production
• May help reduce the risk of anemia when included in a balanced diet

🛡️ Provides antioxidants

• Vitamin C and other plant compounds help protect cells from oxidative damage

🦴 Supports bone health

• Vitamin K, calcium, and magnesium contribute to strong bones

A 100-gram serving of long beans typically contains about 45–50 calories, making them a healthy addition to stir-fries, curries, soups, and salads.

For the best nutrient retention, lightly steam, stir-fry, or cook them briefly rather than overboiling.