Origins of The Association
In the late 1970s, the Indian immigrant community was rapidly increasing in the United States of America. Although the number of Sree Narayana devotees was small, the urge for the spiritual and cultural needs of the community was strong.
There was no formal forum for the assembly of the Sree Narayana immigrant community anywhere in North America. Recognizing the vital necessity for an assemblage, Mr. Udayabhanu Prabhakaran, Mr. Raghavan Prasanna, and Mr. Babu K. Palackal convened and resolved to establish an enduring organization for all Sree Narayana devotees in North America.
Our Historical Journey & Milestones
The Association, as soon as established, plunged into active service towards accomplishing its noble aims. Sree Narayana devotees living in different parts of North America were introduced to one another, building a close-knit fraternal community. We initiated educational sessions for our members and children on Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings, assembling on the last Sunday of every month for religious and community services.
1982: Malayalam School
Established the first organized Malayalam language school in the United States, enabling second-generation youth to communicate and publicly orator in their mother tongue.
1982: Community Library
Founded a dedicated philosophical library, later expanded in 1999 with over one hundred canonical volumes and scholarly commentaries on Sree Narayana Guru.
1983: Pan-American Expansion
Adopted the name Sree Narayana Association of North America Inc. (SNA) to embrace devotees across the United States and Canada, and held the inaugural public Gurudeva Jayanthi celebration in New York.
1990: "Gurudarshanam" Journal
Launched "Gurudarshanam", the official newsletter and philosophical publication of the Association, upholding the highest standards of cultural and artistic excellence.
In 1986, SNA sponsored a historic American tour for the legendary Kathaprasangam maestro Mr. V. Sambasivan, marking one of the most successful cultural endeavors organized by the Indian diaspora in the United States.
The year 1995 marked a landmark milestone when SNA organized the first-ever National Sree Narayana Convention outside of India at the Mount Airy Lodge resort in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. Over sixty families participated, accompanied by eminent dignitaries Prof. M.K. Sanu and Swami Sookshmananda. This convention also catalyzed the formation of the vibrant SNA Women’s Forum and Youth Forum.
Aims & Objectives
The core ten principles and foundational objectives guiding the Sree Narayana Association of North America:
Executive Committee & Leadership
Browse Historical Office Bearers Albums →The dedicated executive committee members, board of directors, auditors, women's forum, and youth forum leaders who have steered the activities of the Sree Narayana Association of North America.