AIM for Seva raised more than $500,000 through its annual donor appreciation event, Ramam Bhaje, held October 3 at the Heritage Theatre in Campbell, California. The gathering attracted more than 600 attendees for an evening of devotional music, cultural performances and fundraising aimed at expanding educational opportunities for underserved children in rural India.
The program featured acclaimed vocalist Kumari Sooryagayathri and a musical ensemble performing traditional devotional songs, including compositions by the organization’s founder, Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati. Visual presentations inspired by the Ramayana accompanied the music, highlighting the values associated with Lord Rama and the traditions of Sanatana Dharma. Audience participation extended the concert beyond its planned 90-minute duration.
For AIM for Seva, the event serves a dual purpose: celebrating Indian cultural traditions and mobilizing financial support for its educational mission. Rani Goel, who has worked with the organization for nearly 20 years, explained that its funding requirements have increased as its residential hostels, known as chatralayas, have expanded into full kindergarten-through-12th-grade schools. Constructing a K-12 school can cost approximately $1.5 million.
Organizers initially sought sponsorships for 750 students and funding for five school buses. The campaign exceeded its transportation target, securing enough support for six buses. These vehicles are particularly important for children living in remote communities who otherwise face difficulties traveling to school.
The organization’s supporters have also financed major infrastructure projects, including school expansions in Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. Longtime donors Dr. Sankar Niranjan and Dr. Lakshmi Niranjan have contributed to residential facilities and school construction. They said the organization’s transparent operations and opportunities to witness its work firsthand have strengthened their commitment.
AIM for Seva combines free education for children residing in its hostels with tuition-based schooling for students from neighboring villages, with fees adjusted according to families’ financial circumstances. Supporters say this approach helps rural children access quality education while remaining connected to their communities.
Chandra Dulam, a volunteer leader with the organization’s Bay Area group, said its largely volunteer-driven network raises approximately $3 million to $4 million annually for schools, residential facilities and the needs of around 4,000 children. Volunteers operate across 26 U.S. cities and Canada, contributing to fundraising and community outreach.
Meanwhile, Madhu Grandhi highlighted the organization’s emphasis on working alongside rural families rather than separating children from their communities. He also volunteers behind the scenes at cultural productions, coordinating performers and technical arrangements.
Through Ramam Bhaje, AIM for Seva continues to combine cultural engagement with philanthropy, bringing supporters together to improve educational access and create opportunities for children in underserved parts of India.
