Nurturing Gratitude and Mindfulness: Indian Practices at Namo Bharati Vidyalay for Pre-Schoolers
Gratitude (kritajnata) and mindfulness (smriti) are cherished Indian values that help children appreciate life’s blessings and stay present in the moment. At Namo Bharati Vidyalay in Bengaluru, we introduce these values through traditional Indian practices, ensuring your pre-schooler grows with a grateful heart and a calm mind. In this third part of our series, let’s explore how we cultivate gratitude and mindfulness in young children.
The Role of Gratitude and Mindfulness in Indian Values
Indian culture emphasizes gratitude for nature, family, and the divine, often expressed through rituals like offering prayers or celebrating harvests. Mindfulness, rooted in practices like Yoga and meditation, helps children focus and find inner peace—values that are essential for emotional well-being in today’s fast-paced world.
How Namo Bharati Vidyalay Teaches Gratitude and Mindfulness
Gratitude Prayers
Each day begins with a prayer thanking the sun, earth, and parents, teaching children to appreciate the world around them.
Yoga and Breath Work
Simple asanas like the Tree Pose and fun breath exercises (e.g., blowing feathers) help children stay mindful and centered.
Sankranti Celebrations
During Sankranti, children share til-gud sweets and learn to express gratitude for the harvest, connecting with the Indian value of annadata sukhi bhava (may the giver of food be happy).
Mindfulness Moments
Short sessions with a singing bowl or closing their eyes to listen to nature sounds help children practice being present.

Reinforcing These Values at Home
- Teach your child to say “thank you” to the sun each morning, a simple Indian practice to cultivate gratitude.
- Practice a 2-minute mindfulness activity, like listening to a bell or breathing together, before bedtime.
- Celebrate festivals like Pongal or Sankranti at home by preparing traditional foods and discussing their significance.
Why It Matters for Your Child
By fostering gratitude and mindfulness, we help your child develop a positive outlook, emotional resilience, and a deep connection to Indian traditions—values that will guide them throughout life.