Gnaana Chudar Vilakku started as a virtual event in 2020 as a forum to bring Srivaishnava children together and provide a forum to enrich and share their interest in our sampradayam.

With the success of the virtual event over the last few years, Srivaishnavas from across USA requested Vedics to organize an event for the entire family where like minded devotees can come together and engage in sampradaya activities. Upon popular request, we are launching this family event called 'Thirukkandaen', where you can rejoice and witness the flourishing Srivaishnava Sampradayam. 

We invite you and your family to the LA metro area to celebrate Sriman Nathanmunigal's 1200th Thirunakshatram and Swami Manavaala Manavaala Maamunikal's 653th Thirunakshatram. This is *in addition* to the virtual event that happens each year where children across the world come together to celebrate arulicheyal and acharya sri sookthis.

If you like to donate to this event to cover part of the expenses, please click on the Donate button

Details of the in person event can be found below. 

What to expect at the event?

For this year, 2023, the event happens near the Los Angeles metro area from Oct 27th through Oct 29th . Srivaishnavas drive / fly in on Oct 27th. On Saturday, Oct 28th, we will start with Thirumanjanam followed by Thiruvaimozhi Sevaakaalam. In the afternoon, there will be events for children and the family. Children can showcase their knowledge of arulicheyal and achaarya Sri Sukthis. Other forms of kainkaryam to Srivaishnava acharyas - like devagaanam, skits etc are welcome. We will wrap up by 2PM on Sunday, Oct 29th 2023 enabling sufficient time for attendees to return to their place of origin. 

I am from out of state and do not know anyone in Los Angeles, CA. Can I participate?

Swami Pillai Lokachaaryar states that Srivaishnavas are the aatma bandhoos... 'srivaishnavargalaikkandaal bandhukkalai kandaar polaeyum' is Swami's thiruvaaku. This event provides us all the opportunity to meet new Srivaishnavas and come together as a family. So, as long as you are interested and able, we encourage you to register for this event and attend in person.

What airport do I fly into? 

The closest airport is Ontario (ONT) or San Bernardino (SBD). Direct connections to these airports are preferable. Often airline deals are offered for Los Angeles (LAX). If flying into LAX, please see instructions below:

Option 1:

1. LAX to Los Angeles Union Station by flyaway bus (every 30 minutes) or Uber

2. LA Union Station to  San Bernardino downtown  via  Metro link San Bernardino line

3. San Bernardino downtown to accomodation via car (pickup can be arranged)

Option 2:

1. LAX to Los Angeles Union Station by flyaway bus (every 30 minutes)  or Uber

2. LA Union Station to  Riverside downtown  via  Metro link Riverside line

3. Riverside downtown to accomodation via car (pickup can be arranged)

Metrolink Schedule

Please use Google Maps to with Destination as Redlands, California for optimal public transport options from LAX to Redlands based on your time of arrival 

Where do I stay?

Srivaishnavas in Los Angeles are arranging for limited accomodation on a first cum first serve basis. When you register for the event, please indicate if you need airport pickup and/or accomodation. You are welcome to arrange your accomodation if you prefer that.

Dress Code

Male participants in dhoti with thiruman or appropriate thilakam (forehead mark) based on their family tradition. Those who have undergone samasrayanam under the holy feet of a Srivaishnava acharya are encouraged to apply dvaadasa urdhva pundrams (12 thiruman).

Female participants in age appropriate traditional dress with appropriate thilakam.

Can I attend both the in person and virtual events?

Yes, if your schedule and location permits, you may attend both.

I have a question that is not covered above, what should I do?

Please email gnaanachudarvilakku.vedics@gmail.com and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Can I sponsor for the event to cover some of the expenses ?

Yes, Please click on the Donate button:

I am ready to register, how do I do so?

Please register here to attend