Tamil Nadu Foundation Celebrates Golden Jubilee

Tamil Nadu Foundation (TNF), established in 1974 in Baltimore, stands as the oldest and largest U.S.-based humanitarian organization dedicated solely to Tamil Nadu. Over the last 50 years, TNF has evolved as a social organization impacting the lives of less privileged children and families through Education, Women Empowerment, Rural Development and Health & Hygiene.

Over the past five decades, TNF Life Members, TNF Chapters, and TNF Convention donors have collectively supported over 700 projects, positively impacting more than 500,000 underprivileged individuals across Tamil Nadu. This includes providing aid to over 200,000 students in government schools through TNF’s flagship ABC education initiative, assisting over 60,000 victims of the 2015 floods, aiding more than 20,000 victims of Cyclone Gaja in 2018, and donating over 1 million USD during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic.

To commemorate TNF’s Golden Jubilee, a significant milestone, we are delighted to announce our celebratory event scheduled from May 24 to 26 in Rosemont, IL (Chicago), marking fifty years of our Foundation’s impactful journey.

TNF lifetime members and the Tamil diaspora are eager to celebrate their accomplishments, reflecting on our journey from a small group of visionaries to impacting over 250,000 children and families across 650 villages in Tamil Nadu. The event promises a rich blend of music, dance, and informative sessions, providing an opportunity to engage with our Youth Force, the future bearers of our mission, and to minimize administrative costs through event profits, ensuring that 100% of donor dollars directly benefit the beneficiaries in Tamil Nadu.

Event Highlights:

  • Grand Music Concert: Featuring the legendary “Isai Gnyani Illayaraja.”
  • Therukoothu: By Sangagiri Rajkumar with 260 participants (Attempting to make Guinness record).
  • “EGAI” Tamil Symphony: A spectacular musical event by Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran featuring over a hundred artists.
  • Fusion Dance Performance: Showcasing 150 local talents.
  • Tamil Isai – Featuring traditional Tamil musical instruments.
  • The Renowned YouTube – Village Cooking Channel Team.
  • Emerge 2024: An all-day Entrepreneurs Event sponsored by TNF and ATEA.
  • Youth Conference: Organized by young adults.
  • College Alumni Gathering: Expecting participation from over 25 colleges.
  • Districts Parade: Representing 38 districts from Tamil Nadu.
  • Other high-quality programs from TNF Chapters and local organizations.

Guests from various parts of North America and at least 50 other countries will converge to witness this mega event. Visit www.tnfusa.org for more details.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Holds Annual “Health for Humanity Yogathon”

The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (hssus.org), which describes itself as a “voluntary non-profit cultural organization” with more than 230 chapters nationwide, wrapped up its 17th annual “Surya Namaskar Yajna,” widely known as the “Health for Humanity Yogathon,” on January 28th, 2024.

This 16-day public health awareness initiative commenced on January 13th, 2024, introducing participants to the rejuvenating practice of Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation, a press release said. This yoga routine, consisting of 10 simple postures and accompanied by mindful breathing, is said to offer profound benefits for both body and mind.

The Yogathon unfolded across the nation in a relay format, blending virtual and in-person events from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Over 15,585 participants from 36 states collectively completed nearly 925,051 repetitions of the Surya Namaskar sequence. Notably, 4,640 teachers and students from 35 schools contributed close to 50,000 repetitions, underscoring the program’s educational impact. Temples, community centers, and marathon events further enriched the initiative, with enthusiasts completing over 100 sets per person at various locations.

Since its inception in 2007, the Health for Humanity Yogathon has served as a flagship event for HSS, promoting the holistic benefits of yoga for individuals and communities. Elected officials, including US senators, governors, state representatives, and mayors, endorsed the Yogathon through official proclamations, encouraging widespread participation in this health-conscious endeavor.

Participants doing the Surya Namaskar during the HSS-USA nationde Yogathon. PHOTO: HSS

Educators hailed the program’s merits, recognizing its potential to foster mental tranquility and physical strength among students. A teacher from an Elementary school appreciated this program. He commented, “I feel that there are many things that the students can get from this program, not only in the mind, but also in the body. So the mind can be calming. They can learn different strategies to calm themselves down and focus. And then with their body, they can be strengthening and stretching their body and making it more strong. So these kinds of techniques are just another technique that we would learn in any other class, whether it be in physical education. This could be an extension of that, even into the classroom, where the classroom teachers can use these calming effects to maybe focus before the test, calm their minds, and be ready to engage in the next activities that we’re going to cover.”

Another school administrator reflected on her experiences, “This morning I got to do the sun salutations with some experts here at PV and I have to say it was very invigorating. I feel very both rested and ready to start my day and if I can do it I think anybody can do it. Thank you so much for the instructors.”

Reflecting on the Yogathon’s success, national project coordinator Manjunath expressed satisfaction with its role in promoting health awareness across diverse American communities.

Hindu Vote Is An Important Factor In US Elections

Niraj Antani, a Republican running for US Congress, is aggressively projecting his Hindu faith. Bhavini Patel, a Democrat running for Congress, is battling allegations of courting Hindu nationalist donors. And Indian-descent donors are pressing the Biden-Harris campaign for a “Hindu page” in its 2024 campaign manifesto.

The “Hindu Vote” appears to have become a factor in US politics. There is no rock solid count of Hindus in the US because the US Census does not record religious affiliation in its surveys. But there are several estimates.

Pew Research Center said 0.7 per cent of Americans were Hindu in 2015 and that their number is projected to grow to 4.8 million by 2050. Harvard Divinity School estimated their number to be 2.5 million in 2018. And some Hindu Americans put the number generously at 5 million, which, they concede, includes Sikhs and Jains. As crucial as their number is US politics, so is their ability to write big donation checks.

Niraj Antani, an Ohio state lawmaker who is running in the Republican primary for a congressional seat, has frequently described himself as Hindu and posted this message on X, to mark the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya: “As the 1st Hindu American State Senator in Ohio history, today it was my privilege to do Darshan to Lord Ram at @BAPS Cincinnati Mandir to mark the opening of his Mandir in Ayodhya. As we celebrate this occasion, let us stand for religious freedom around the world. Jai Shri Ram!” His pinned post on X is an endorsement from the Hindu American PAC.

Hindu Vote Is An Important Factor In US Elections (The Week)
Picture: The Week

Bhavini Patel, a Democrat who is seeking to unseat the incumbent Democrat in a congressional race in Pennsylvania, is being attacked by her opponent for courting Hindu nationalist donors, as also for her unstinting support for Israel.

A fundraising call she hosted with Mihi Meghani, a co-founder of the Hindu American Foundation was being cited as proof of her courting Hindu groups. Meghani is also the chair of the Hindu American PACs whose endorsement is a pinned post on Antani’s X feed.

The Patel campaign has denied these allegations. The back and forth only demonstrates the growing presence of a Hindu vote in US politics.

“There was always a Hindu vote, which was not recognized publicly,” said Ramesh Kapur, a longtime Democratic donor and strategist.

“But it is being recognized now, and has come to the fore in the context of the 2024 elections.” A bunch of donors are also pressing the Biden-Harris re-election campaign to include a “Hindu Page” in its manifesto, whenever it is announced.

The same group had tried but failed to convince the Biden campaign to feature the same page in its manifesto that ran on the campaign’s website as “Joe’s Vision”. It had sections dedicated to Muslims, Jews, African American, and so on. The campaign did issue Biden’s agenda for Indian Americans but this group of Hindu donors were insistent on a “Hindu Page” in “Joe’s Vision” specially because of the observances in the section for Muslims.

“Joe Biden has been disappointed by the measures that the government of India has taken with the implementation and aftermath of the National Register of Citizens in Assam and the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act into law,” it had said, referring laws that sought to fast-track citizenship request from non-Muslims fleeing neighboring countries and keeping a national registry of citizens.

Both laws remain un-enforced.

These donors are pressing for the page with an offer to provide President Biden the cushion of Hindu American votes to offset the possible boycott of Arab and Muslim votes over the administration’s support of Israel’s offensive against Hamas in Gaza, especially in the key swing states that tend to determine most presidential races.

A phrase being used frequently in this context is “plug the gap”.

Wisconsin, one of the swing states, will be critical. Biden won this state by 20,000 in 2020. It has an estimated 38,400 Hindu Americans and they may be able to cushion the blow from the boycott by the state’s 68,000 Muslims to an extent. These numbers come from a document prepared by these donors to make their case.

Hindu Americans are more confident of their ability to help Biden better in Georgia, a state he won by roughly 12,000. The state is home to 172,000 Hindu Americans, who can more than compensate for its 123,000 Muslims.

In Pennsylvania, which Biden won by 44,000, Hindu Americans number 129,700 to 149,500 Muslim Americans. Hindu Americans are not able to fill the gap completely but, they are arguing, they can help the campaign fill the gap.

But all this presumes Hindu Americans will turn up and vote and not, as mostly before, staying home. These Hindu Americans feel particularly confident of their clout on account of two key political developments.

One, they believe, they helped Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, win the Governorship of Virginia, and, two, convinced Gavin Newsom, the California Governor with widely acknowledged White House aspirations, to veto a legislation passed by the California legislatures to add “caste” to the list of prohibited discriminatory practices.

Hindu Americans are mostly of Indian descent but a sizable number of them are also from Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Caribbean, Afghanistan and American converts such as former congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard’s family.

Indian Americans have been a growing political force in the US, but many among them have begun to differentiate themselves as Hindu Americans, a trend that has been helped along by the rise of the BJP in India, specially the immense popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Multiple groups have cropped up with names wrapped around the word “Hindu” — Republican Hindu Coalition, American Hindu Coalition, Hindus 4 America, Hindu American PAC (Political Action Committee).

Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal, the three Indian American members of the House of Representatives are all Hindu, but they have rarely, if ever, flouted their faith to further their politics. And they have now been members of US Congress since 2017, serving three terms. Shri Thanedar, who joined them in the House in 2023 has been demonstrably bolder. He heads the Hindu Caucus in the House. (IANS)

Millions Bathe In Sangam On Maghi Purnima

Millions of devotees prayed and took a dip at the Sangam, the confluence of three rivers — the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati — on Maghi Purnima, or full moon day, at the annual traditional fair in Prayagraj, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, India, Saturday, Feb.24, 2024. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims take dips here hoping to wash away sins during a month-long festival called Magh Mela. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh).

Hindu devotees take a dip at the Sangam, the confluence of three rivers — the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati — on Maghi Purnima, or full moon day at the annual traditional fair in Prayagraj, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, India, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims take dips here hoping to wash away sins during a month-long festival called Magh Mela. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh).

Millions Bathe In Sangam On Maghi Purnima
Devotees gather at Sangam, the confluence of the rivers Ganges and Yamuna and mythical Saraswati, on Paush Purnima during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Allahabad on January 27, 2013

Magha Purnima carries profound religious and spiritual importance within Hinduism. This year, it will be observed on Saturday, February 24, 2024. It is a day devoted to honouring Lord Vishnu and the Moon God, occurring monthly as the Full Moon Day. It is revered as a highly auspicious occasion for conducting various puja ceremonies.

Hindus consider the Magha month to be the most significant of all the months in the Hindu calendar. While celebrating Maghi Purnima, devotees fast, take a dip in holy waters, make donations to charitable causes, and offer prayers to gods like Vishnu and Hanuman. Hindus believe this holy bath, taken in certain rivers like the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, Kaveri, and so on, is very providential. Hindu mythology also states that Lord Vishnu resides in the river Ganga on this day, and even touching the waters can be very beneficial to people. That plus the prayers being offered up on this day make their wishes almost certain to come true, believe most devotees.

People across India have varied customs across regions. The southern state of Tamil Nadu hosts a special ‘float’ festival each year. Decorated idols of their gods, Meenakshi and Lord Sundeshwara, are mounted on floats. North India (cities like Allahabad and Prayag) holds a Magha Mela (a large religious fair) annually at the confluence of three major rivers — Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati River.

Apart from the religious significance, this day is also important in regard to astrology. As the sun moves to the Capricorn sign, the moon moves into the Cancer constellation. The holy dip is said to negate all problems arising with the sun and the moon, and the month itself helps people adjust to changing seasons. People find strength and power to face the next season.

Another reason Maghi Purnima is so important — followers of Buddhism believe Lord Buddha announced his impending death on this day. Legend says there was an earthquake as soon as he said the words, as though the Earth itself was shaken up by this news. His followers believe the Earth shook just this way when Buddha was born, when he received enlightenment (became the religious leader the world knows), and when he passed away. On this day, Buddhists conduct religious ceremonies, prayers are made to Buddha, and offerings are given to the unfortunate. Multiple Buddhist villages across India organize fairs and events to celebrate Buddha.

Unraveling the Mystique of India’s Beloved Butter Chicken: A Culinary Tale of Origins and Controversy

India’s iconic butter chicken holds a special place in the hearts and taste buds of people both at home and abroad. This succulent dish, featuring tender chicken enveloped in a vibrant blend of tomato, cream, butter, and spices, has been savored by a diverse array of individuals, from truck drivers at rustic roadside stalls in rural India to international figures like Jackie Kennedy.

Now, however, butter chicken finds itself at the center of a legal dispute revolving around its origins. This contentious issue pits the grandsons of the two founders of Moti Mahal, the restaurant believed to have first introduced butter chicken in India, against each other. Monish Gujral, the grandson of one of the founders, asserts, “The suit has been filed to protect my family legacy,” seeking to refute claims made by the other grandson regarding the dish’s invention. The gravity of the matter is underscored by the family’s submission of a voluminous 2,752-page document supporting their stance.

Delving into the dish’s origins unveils a narrative steeped in history. The founders of Moti Mahal, Kundan Lal Jaggi and Kundan Lal Gujral, hailed from Peshawar, a city now in northwest Pakistan. Their journey to New Delhi was catalyzed by the tumultuous events of Partition in 1947, which saw the subcontinent divided along religious lines. Amidst this upheaval, they established Moti Mahal, where butter chicken quickly became a star attraction, drawing admiration from patrons such as the renowned chef and actress Madhur Jaffrey. She reminisces fondly about the distinctive allure of the sauce, describing it as “creamy, melty, and delicious,” a heavenly accompaniment to naan and pickled onions.

The restaurant’s fame soared, attracting luminaries including India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and international dignitaries like Jacqueline Kennedy. However, the absence of a written recipe for butter chicken from the founders left room for interpretation, leading to divergent claims regarding its inception. The Gujral family, after selling Moti Mahal in the 1990s, launched their own franchise, with signage at their outlets attributing the invention of butter chicken to Gujral. Meanwhile, the Daryaganj franchise, founded in 2019, asserts that Jaggi was the mastermind behind the dish.

Tensions escalated when Jaggi’s grandson reiterated this assertion during a television appearance, prompting legal action from the Gujral family. Despite efforts to trace the dish’s origins back to Peshawar, where Moti Mahal initially operated, conflicting accounts muddy the waters. Residents recall the restaurant and its signature butter chicken, yet differing recollections regarding the chef responsible add complexity to the narrative.

The debate extends beyond mere attribution, raising questions about the dish’s cultural roots. Nilofer Afridi Qazi, a chronicler of Pakistani culinary traditions, notes that butter chicken isn’t widely embraced in present-day Pakistan, suggesting its origins might lie elsewhere. Some speculate that its creation catered to British tastes, given Peshawar’s history as a British garrison town. The dish’s rich, buttery gravy and boneless chicken align with preferences associated with non-Indian palates, hinting at potential colonial influences.

The parallels between butter chicken and Britain’s chicken tikka masala further complicate the narrative. While the exact origins of the latter remain contentious, its evolution mirrors that of butter chicken, catering to British preferences for saucy, flavorful dishes. Lizzie Collingham, a culinary historian, posits that both dishes emerged in response to British culinary expectations, underscoring the interconnectedness of culinary traditions in the colonial era.

Despite the debate surrounding its origins, butter chicken has undeniably become a culinary phenomenon in India and beyond. Revered for its comforting flavors and versatility, it embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals and serves as an entry point to non-vegetarian cuisine for many. Pushpesh Pant, a food historian, acknowledges the dish’s elusive history, likening its invention to the age-old question of who discovered fire.

In essence, butter chicken transcends its contested origins, resonating with diners as a symbol of culinary delight and cultural fusion. Whether enjoyed in upscale restaurants or savored as takeout, its enduring popularity underscores its status as a beloved culinary treasure, cherished by all who partake in its savory embrace.

https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2024/03/01/1234793757/butter-chicken-origins-india-madhur-jaffrey-recipe

Record-breaking Kathak Dance Gala in Khajuraho: A Triumph of Tradition and Talent

A milestone was achieved in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where approximately 1484 Kathak dancers came together to etch their names into the annals of the Guinness World Records. This feat unfolded amidst the mesmerizing beats of Raga Basant, as performers from various cities graced the stage of the 50th Khajuraho Dance Festival, an event orchestrated by the state government. With lamps delicately cradled in their palms, they embarked on a 20-minute journey through the enchanting rhythms of Raga Basant, a choreographic masterpiece crafted by the renowned dance maestro, Rajendra Gangani.

The significance of this achievement was underscored by the official record certificate, which affirmed, “The largest Kathak dance was achieved by the Department of Culture, Government of Madhya Pradesh, during 50th Khajuraho Dance Festival on February 20.” Amidst the luminous display of talent and artistry, Dr. Mohan Yadav, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, graced the occasion, adding his own touch of history by showcasing his prowess with an antique Nagara instrument. Extending his heartfelt congratulations to the dancers and their mentors hailing from various cities across the state, Dr. Yadav lauded their collective effort in etching this remarkable achievement.

However, the event was not solely about setting records; it also served as a platform for the unveiling of an ambitious initiative. Dr. Yadav seized the moment to announce the inauguration of the nation’s inaugural Gurukul in Khajuraho, an endeavor aimed at nurturing and preserving tribal and indigenous arts. Delving into the details, he articulated that the Gurukul would be helmed by seasoned gurus who would impart training in a myriad of traditional arts spanning the domains of crafts, dance, music, painting, and oral literature. The ethos behind this initiative resonated with the ethos of preserving ancient knowledge systems and nurturing them in a manner that aligns with the holistic essence of rural life.

The Gurukul in Khajuraho stands as a testament to the commitment towards preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage. Through initiatives like these, the legacy of traditional arts is not merely safeguarded but also revitalized, ensuring its continuity for generations to come. In the backdrop of the magnificent Khajuraho temples, where history whispers through the intricately carved stone, this endeavor heralds a new chapter in the saga of cultural preservation and propagation.

All India Rank: Varun Grover’s Directorial Debut Takes Center Stage as the First Indian Film to Close IFFR in Over 5 Decades

Indian writer, lyricist, and comedian Varun Grover ventured into the realm of directing with his debut film ‘All India Rank,’ marking a significant milestone as it closed the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2024, making it the first Indian film to achieve this feat in 52 years.

The storyline of the movie unfolds in Kota, India, encapsulating the late 1990s era. It portrays the journey of 17-year-old Vivek, who is dispatched to a preparatory school to ready himself for the fiercely competitive IIT entrance examination, often dubbed as “the MIT of India.”

The narrative delves into the intensity and grim reality surrounding the arduous exam preparation process. Furthermore, it serves as a reflection of the socio-cultural landscape of India during the liberalization era of the 1990s.

Through a semi-autobiographical lens, Grover presents a poignant depiction of the lives of Indian adolescents and the societal pressures entwined with academic success. The film not only follows the protagonist’s personal odyssey but also delves into the dynamics between parental aspirations and individual dreams, resonating with a wide audience.

Boasting a stellar ensemble cast including Bodhisattva Sharma, Shashi Bhushan, and Samta Sudiksha, the film is backed by a proficient crew featuring cinematographer Archana Ghangrekar and editor Sanyukta Kaza.

Grover, acclaimed for his lyrical prowess, earned accolades such as the Best Lyricist award at the National Film Awards for his work in ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha.’ His notable contributions extend to serving as the lyricist for acclaimed films like Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ I and II, the 2015 hit ‘Masaan,’ and the recent blockbuster ‘RRR,’ among others. Notably, he recently concluded a world tour of ‘Aisi Taisi Democracy,’ a satirical stand-up comedy show.

The film made its grand debut at the IFFR 2024 on February 6 and is slated for release in Indian cinemas on February 23.

Surajkund Mela: A Colorful Celebration of Culture, Crafts, and Culinary Delights

Surajkund, translating to the “Lake of the Sun,” bears significant historical importance, deriving its name from the ancient reservoir constructed by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar dynasty in the 10th century.

Originating in 1987, the Surajkund Mela occurs annually in February, aiming to bolster tourism in Haryana by showcasing its rich handicrafts, handlooms, and cultural heritage.

The Surajkund Mela is a collaborative effort between the Surajkund Mela Authority, Haryana Tourism, and various Union Ministries including Tourism, Textiles, Culture, and External Affairs.

Since its inception, all states of India have actively participated in the fair, with one state typically designated as the Theme State.

Elevated to an international level in 2013 and renamed the “28th Surajkund International Crafts Mela,” the event attracted participation from over 15 countries, including those from Europe, Africa, and SAARC nations in 2014.

In 2015, a record-breaking 20 countries took part, with Lebanon as the Partner Nation and Chhattisgarh as the Theme State.

In the latest iteration in 2024, nearly 40 countries, including Tanzania, participated, providing attendees with glimpses into African culture alongside the cultural partnerships of all eight northeastern states.

Kicking off on February 1st, the Surajkund International Crafts Mela transforms Faridabad, Haryana, into a vibrant hub of colors, drum beats, and jubilation, celebrating Indian folk traditions and cultural heritage.

Drawing over a million visitors, including hundreds of thousands of foreigners, the Mela serves as a testament to global diversity, showcasing a plethora of arts, handicrafts, cuisines, and cultural tapestries.

As the world’s largest crafts fair, the Surajkund Mela celebrates India’s rich cultural fabric, offering designated areas for amusement, adventure sports, and joy rides, catering to visitors of all ages.

The event showcases some of India’s most exquisite handlooms and handicrafts, featuring handmade fabrics adorned in ethnic hues that captivate visitors’ attention.

Amidst cultural performances and exhibitions, the Mela serves as a custodian of heritage crafts, preserving traditional skills endangered by mass-produced imitations.

Visitors can engage in immersive experiences like getting their photos taken after donning the traditional ‘Haryanvi Pagdi’ at the Virasat Cultural Exhibition stall.

The exhibition also features displays of iron, brass, and wooden bells used for various animals, alongside wooden printing blocks and measurement scales from pre-Independence rural India.

The Surajkund Mela fosters cultural exchange and understanding through art and crafts, building bridges across borders.

Culinary delights from around the world await visitors at the multi-cuisine Food Court, offering an array of ethnic cuisines beloved by attendees.

India’s Global Temple Diplomacy: Strengthening Cultural Bonds Across Borders

India’s endeavors in constructing, inaugurating, and restoring its temples worldwide stand as a testament to its efforts in strengthening connections with its extensive diaspora of over 32 million and the estimated 1.2 billion Hindus globally.

Long before the colonial era and continuing long after, Hindus have migrated across the globe for various reasons, contributing significantly to the establishment of numerous temples in their adopted countries.

The global count of Hindu temples is estimated at around two million, with notable examples including Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, Indonesia’s Prambanan temple, Nepal’s Pashupatinath Temple, and Australia’s Shiva Vishnu Temple.

The tradition of Hindu temple construction dates back centuries, with Thailand witnessing the beginning in the third and fourth centuries AD, evidenced by early depictions of Lord Vishnu, while Vietnam’s Cham people erected several Hindu temples.

Reflecting on this dispersed cultural heritage, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar remarked during a visit to Cambodia in 2022, “There are temples not only in India and the Indian subcontinent but in many regions beyond.” He emphasized the significance of temple construction and restoration as a means to uphold the continuity of civilization beyond national borders.

For Hindus, these temples serve as vital centers for maintaining cultural identity, values, and traditions across generations. Kajal Dhadwal, a resident of Tanzania for over 14 years, finds solace and strength in temples like the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and the ISKON center in Arusha.

With the growing population of Hindus globally, there arises a greater demand for places of worship. According to data from the External Affairs Ministry, the number of Indians relocating abroad permanently was 2,25,620 in 2022 and 87,026 until June 2023.

In line with this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Abu Dhabi’s first Hindu temple, the BAPS Mandir, on February 14, underscoring the UAE’s significant role in fostering communal harmony. The UAE already hosts three other Hindu temples in Dubai, showcasing its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

This event followed closely after Modi’s participation in the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, highlighting the significance of temple construction both domestically and internationally.

Further expanding the global footprint of Hindu temples, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the world’s largest Hindu temple outside India, was inaugurated in New Jersey’s Robbinsville Township in October of the previous year.

In a bid to preserve heritage and promote cultural exchange, Modi initiated a multi-million-dollar renovation project for Bahrain’s 200-year-old Shrinathji Temple in Manama in 2019.

The demand for temples abroad extends beyond providing places of worship; they also serve as showcases of Indian art and architecture, garnering international recognition and contributing to the cultural landscape of their host countries.

Recognizing the soft power potential, countries view the construction of Hindu temples as a means to bolster their economies, promote tourism, and enhance bilateral relations through increased people-to-people interactions.

Harnessing Insights and Innovation: Harvard India Conference Explores Investment and Tech Landscape

The India Conference, orchestrated by Harvard students, drew to a close on its second day at the Harvard Business School on February 18, delivering a profound exploration of emerging investment prospects and the burgeoning technological landscape in India.

Various panels delved into substantial reforms and a promising outlook for investors and tech innovators. The focal point remained the convergence of technology startups and business investment avenues, captivating the audience’s attention.

In the session titled “SaaS from India, For the World,” Abhinav Shashank, CEO of Innovaccer, recounted his journey of securing funding in the Indian market, furnishing valuable insights for budding entrepreneurs. Stressing the significance of comprehending equity as an investment asset, he remarked, “Equity and participation in equity create wealth. You want people to own. Education of all options is important to understand long-term equity value. People in India are starting to think about equity and stock options.”

Beyond the realms of commerce and technology, the conference embraced cultural dialogues, delving into the influence of sports and cinema on the Indian populace. Bollywood luminary Karishma Kapoor contributed to the panel titled “Soft Power of Bollywood,” examining the evolving nature of Bollywood movies, which have progressively become more socially conscious over time.

The conference also scrutinized the shifting mindsets of Indian professionals and entrepreneurs regarding settling abroad post-education. Distinguished speakers, including Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, and Prateek Kanwal, Director of Deloitte India, who spoke on the first day, shed light on the burgeoning trend of Indian expatriates returning home to seize entrepreneurial prospects in India’s burgeoning economy.

As the proceedings unfolded, it became apparent that the Harvard India Conference continues to serve as a crucial repository of knowledge. By convening thought leaders, policymakers, social advocates, artists, and visionaries, the conference significantly contributes to the ongoing discourse shaping the trajectory of India’s future.

New Proposals For NRIs To Curb Marriage Fraud: Compulsory Registration In India

Mandatory registration of marriages between Indian citizens and NRIs or OCIs is proposed by the Law Commission, under the leadership of Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi. This aims to address issues of fraud and abandonment. The proposed law includes provisions for divorce, maintenance, and child custody, aiming for fair resolution. Additionally, raising awareness among NRIs and OCIs through community engagement is suggested.

The Law Commission, led by Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, has proposed that all marriages between Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Indian citizens must be officially registered in India. This recommendation aims to tackle issues such as deceitful promises, misrepresentation, and abandonment often seen in such unions. The commission expressed concern over the growing number of fraudulent marriages involving NRIs marrying Indian partners, particularly affecting Indian spouses, particularly women, and emphasized the need for preventive measures.New Proposals For NRIs To Curb Marriage Fraud Compulsory Registration In India

The report further suggests that it should be mandatory for all marriages between Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) and Indian citizens to be registered in India.

The panel has proposed that the new law should encompass provisions concerning divorce, spousal maintenance, child custody and maintenance, as well as the service of legal documents such as summons or warrants to NRIs and OCIs. Additionally, it recommends amending the Passports Act of 1967 to require the declaration of marital status, linking spouses’ passports, and noting the marriage registration number on both spouses’ passports.

Furthermore, the panel suggests granting domestic courts jurisdiction to handle and resolve issues arising from such marriages. According to the panel’s report, disputes within these marriages often require the involvement of local legal systems to ensure fair and equitable resolution.

The panel has also advised the government to raise awareness by actively engaging with the Indian diaspora through community events and regular interactions with Indian communities and organizations. This proactive approach aims to inform and educate NRIs and OCIs about the legal requirements and protections surrounding marriages with Indian citizens, thereby helping to prevent fraudulent practices and safeguard the rights of individuals involved in such unions.

Unlocking the Secrets of Hunza Valley: The Remarkable Habits Behind Centenarian Longevity

In the remote and lesser-known region of Hunza Valley, situated in the far north of Pakistan, the inhabitants seem to defy conventional medical expectations.

The area is predominantly inhabited by the Burusho and Wakhi people, who have not only survived but also flourished for centuries in isolated villages with limited facilities for healthcare. Research indicates that the average lifespan in this region hovers around 100 years.

“My spouse originates from the Burusho indigenous group and was born and raised in this valley. Upon our marriage, I relocated from the United States, and we settled in the central area of the valley.”

Here are some fascinating practices contributing to the longevity of the Hunza people:

1.Consumption of Apricot Seeds and Oil

Apricot trees constitute a vital local crop in the valley. Studies suggest that apricot seeds, rich in a compound called amygdalin, possess cancer-fighting properties and can combat inflammation within the body.

“Traditional Hunzai cuisine prominently features apricot oil. Previously, it was manually extracted, but nowadays, locals employ machines for this purpose.”

“My mother-in-law recounted that half a century ago, apricot oil was the primary cooking medium, even for meat dishes. Additionally, dried apricot fruits aid in alleviating altitude sickness and are utilized in winter soups.”

2.Continuous Physical Activity

Individuals in Hunza maintain an active and healthy lifestyle throughout their lives, extending into old age. Even during harsh winters, it is common to observe elderly individuals engaged in activities such as tending to livestock, gathering firewood, and performing household chores.

“Community engagements like ‘rajaki,’ involving the cleaning of elevated water canals during spring, further contribute to their active lifestyle. Cycling, skating, and playing sports like soccer and cricket are daily pursuits for locals of all age groups.”

3.Consumption of Glacier Water

Hunza Valley is endowed with numerous glaciers that melt during the summer months. The resulting glacial water, known as “Hunza water,” has attracted scientific interest due to its unique properties. Filtered naturally by layers of ice and rock, it is believed to contain beneficial minerals, including quartz in colloid form, which are potent antioxidants.

“Glacial water, available from May to October during the runoff period, is highly valued by the locals, who prefer it over filtered water for its purported health benefits.”

4.Minimal Consumption of Processed Foods

The Hunza diet primarily consists of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Processed foods are rare, and fast food establishments are non-existent in the region. Meals are prepared fresh daily within households, often incorporating homegrown vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, and potatoes.

“Locally sourced meat, obtained from recently slaughtered animals, is a staple in Hunza cuisine. The emphasis on fresh, organic produce underscores the community’s commitment to wholesome eating.”

5.Strong Community Bonds

Community cohesion is a cornerstone of life in Hunza Valley, with close-knit neighborhoods and villages where residents support and care for one another, particularly the elderly. Unlike in many other places, retirement homes are absent, and elders are revered and looked after within their families.

“With negligible crime rates, children enjoy a safe environment where outdoor activities take precedence over screen time. The collective spirit of Hunza society fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support.”

“After residing in this valley for the past two years, I can attest to the exceptional sense of community that permeates every aspect of life here.”

Vijaya Stamba, the Tower of Victory

The historical monument Vijaya Stamba is situated within the Chittor Fort complex in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, a state in India. Vijaya Stamba is also known as the Tower of Victory. The site holds significant cultural and historical value in association with its rulers, Rajputans at that time. Vijay Stamba is a UNESCO-approved world heritage site offering a historical insight into the rich cultural and architectural marvels of mediaeval India.

History and architecture

kailasa temple ellora caves 1Maharana Kumbha of the Mewar dynasty built the Vijaya Stamba in 1448 AD. The construction of the structure was done to honour his victory over Mahmud Khilji’s unified forces from Malwa and Gujarat. The tower honours the military and architectural splendour of the Mewar era; it stands for the pride, valour, and glory of the Rajput warriors in their victories.

The tower is a nine-story building made of red sandstone and white marble, standing at a height of approximately 37 meters. It is characterised by traditional Rajput carvings, balconies, and a pyramidal roof.

Tales

The tower symbolises the valour and triumph of the Mewar kingdom. One of the myths followed on Vijaya Stamba is that it is guarded by spirits who look out for the safety of its inmates and protect the people from invaders.

Following another legend, Maharana Kumbha is said to have constructed the tower as a tribute to his consort or loving queen, which motivated him to start on the enormous task of building it.

Things to do

  • One of Rajasthan’s main tourist destinations is the Vijaya Stamba, which is also close to the Chittor Fort. By climbing to the top of the tower, visitors can take in panoramic views of the surroundings and gain knowledge of the area’s historical significance via educational exhibits and guided tours.
  • Look out for any light and sound performances. A captivating audiovisual experience is offered by these shows, which often narrate the history and stories around the fort.
  • The neighboring Chittorgarh sights, like the Meera Temple, the Rana Kumbha Palace, and the Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame), are other tourist attractions.

Kailash Temple, Dedicated to Lord Shiva

Formed from a single block of excavated stone, Kailasa Temple is considered one of the most impressive cave temples in India. Known around the world as a remarkable architectural fulfillment, it is one of the 34 cave temples and monasteries that are collectively known as the Ellora Caves. A shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kailash Temple is regarded as one of the most amazing rock-cut temples in the world.

History and architecture

Located in the western region of Maharashtra state in India, the caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and include monuments dating between 600 and 1000 CE.

kailasa temple ellora caves 1The Temple was said to have been built during the Rashtrakuta dynasty by King Krishna I and his successor King Dantidurga in the eighth century. It appears to have been built over several decades, arguably over an entire century, with contributions from numerous kings and craftsmen of the era. The temple is a tribute to the excellent mechanical and artistic abilities of the ancient Indian craftsmen and is considered one of the greatest examples of Indian rock-cut buildings.

Though this is a legend and not fact, the truth is that Kailasa was built from the top. This unusual decision called for 200,000 tons of volcanic rock to be excavated from the rock. Standing at about three stories tall, a horseshoe-shaped courtyard has a gopuram—tower—at its entrance. Given the vast space and the ornate decorations of the temple, it’s believed that the work may have started with Krishna I, but could have carried on for centuries, with different rulers adding their own flair.

The Temple is made of a single monolithic rock that was vertically excavated downhill as opposed to other rock-cut constructions standing about 60 feet tall, 164 feet long, and 109 feet wide, typically horizontally excavated. It imitates Mount Kailash, the legendary home of Lord Shiva. The entire building is intended to represent Lord Shiva’s eternal residence. The Temple is furnished with artistic sculptures, carvings, and reliefs that portray a variety of Hindu deities, mythological characters, and scenes from Hindu epics such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

Tales

The demon king of Lanka, known in Hindu mythology as Ravana, was a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. It is claimed that to demonstrate his power and dedication to Shiva, Ravana once tried to raise Mount Kailash. But Ravana’s arrogance angered Shiva, who used his toe to press down on the mountain and trap Ravana beneath it. Ravana is supposed to have imprinted his handprint on the Ellora rocks due to this event. This mythology is sometimes connected to the Kailash Temple, which symbolizes Shiva’s holy residence that is impenetrable by even the most formidable creatures.

The interesting story concerns an enigmatic pillar inside the Kailash Temple compound. This pillar is claimed to hang in midair with no discernible support. It is said that wishes will come true if someone can cross the space between the pillar and the ground without touching either. Many pilgrims come to the temple hoping to view this act of miracles and receive blessings for their wishes.

Things to Do AT Kailash

  • Explore the Kailash temple and visit the Ellora Caves, followed by attending the rituals and pujas.
  • Take into consideration visiting some of the other neighboring Aurangabad area sites, which include the Ajanta Caves, known as the “Taj Mahal of the Deccan,” Bibi Ka Maqbara, Daulatabad Fort, and other UNESCO World Heritage sites

IAMC Condemns Demolition of 600-Year-Old Mosque in Delhi

The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) has vehemently condemned the shocking and brazen demolition of Masjid Akhonji, a 600-year-old mosque in Delhi’s Mehrauli.

The demolition was carried out by officials from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), an autonomous body controlled by the Central Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This reprehensible act, which took place without any prior notice, not only obliterated a revered place of worship but also displayed a blatant disregard for the rich cultural and religious history embedded in Masjid Akhonji.

The callousness exhibited by the DDA in the wanton destruction of a site with deep-rooted historical significance is both shocking and deplorable. The mosque, standing as a testament to over six centuries of religious and cultural heritage, was reduced to rubble, leaving the local residents, mosque-goers, and Madrasa students in a state of disbelief and anguish.

IAMC unequivocally denounces this act as a gross violation of religious freedom and an assault on the nation’s secular fabric.

“The demolition of Masjid Akhonji is not just an attack on a physical structure; it is an assault on the collective memory and identity of a community. This act, carried out under the guise of development, reeks of a sinister agenda to erase the rich Muslim heritage from the socio-cultural landscape,” IAMC Executive Director Rasheed Ahmed said.

Masjid Akhonji’s demolition directly contradicts assurances made by the DDA to the Delhi High Court, where they explicitly stated that no mosque, graveyard, or legally owned Waqf property would face demolition. This betrayal of trust and the destruction of a sacred site is part of a disturbing pattern witnessed in BJP-ruled states, where mosques, shrines, and symbols of Muslim heritage are systematically targeted and obliterated.

IAMC calls for an immediate, impartial investigation into this reprehensible act, urging accountability for those responsible. We demand that authorities take decisive action to safeguard religious sites and put an end to the alarming trend of erasure of Muslim heritage. We stand united against this blatant disregard for history, culture, and the principles of coexistence that define India.

These Are 10 Of The Great Hindu Temples To Visit In The USA

  • The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in New Jersey is the largest Hindu temple in America, made with hand-carved Italian Carrara marble.
  • The Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah is known for hosting seasonal festivals, including the Holi Festival of Colors.
  • The Ganesh Temple in New York is the oldest Hindu temple in the United States, built in 1977, and is now one of the most famous Hindu temples in the US.

There are now hundreds of Hindu temples found scattered across the United States (and Canada). In fact, the United States is now home to the largest Hindu temple outside of Asia. The largest Hindu temple in the world has historically been the famous Angkor Wat in Cambodia (although it was later converted into a Buddhist temple).

These Are 10 Of The Great Hindu Temples To Visit In The USA (TAAJoo)
Picture: TAJoo

The new largest Hindu temple in the world is the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium, currently under construction in India. From New York to California, here are ten great Hindu temples in the USA worth visiting.

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, New Jersey

The massive Hindu temple Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in New Jersey has just been expanded and re-inaugurated and is the largest Hindu temple in America.

It was first completed in 2017 and then re-inaugurated in 2023 and built with hand-carved Italian Carrara marble, Indian pink stone, and limestone. It is located in Robbinsville in Central New Jersey.

  • Remarks: Largest Hindu Temple In USA

Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Utah

The Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Utah is famous for its large Hindu festivals and celebrations. The temple has a large natural amphitheater that has the capacity for thousands of visitors.

One of the best times to visit is for the Holi Festival (or Festival of Colors), which offers a true Indian experience.

  • Remarks:Noted For Hosting Many Seasonal Festivals

Hindu Temple Of Central Indiana, Indiana

Located in Indianapolis, the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana is something of a breathtaking monument to Hindu architecture.

It first opened in 2006 and is one of the top places to visit to learn about the Hindu community in Indiana.

  • Remarks: Oldest Hindu Temple In Indiana

Malibu Hindu Temple, California

The Malibu Hindu Temple is located in Calabasas near Malibu in California and is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Venkateswara. It is made up of two complexes.

The lower complex has Lord Shiva as the presiding deity, while the upper complex has Lord Venkateswara as the presiding deity.

  • Remarks: Dedicated To Lord Venkateswara

Shri Swaminarayan Sanstha, Illinois

One of the top Hindu temples to explore in Chicago is the Shri Swaminarayan Sanstha Hindu temple, which covers 27 acres.

It opened in 2004 and was constructed with Turkish limestone and hand-carved Italian marble.

  • Remarks: Group Tours are Offered from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Sunday & Mornings On Sunday

Ganesh Temple, New York

The Ganesh Temple in Flushing, New York (in Queens, NYC) is the oldest Hindu temple in the United States. It wasThese Are 10 Of The Great Hindu Temples To Visit In The USA (Travel) built in 1977 and is now considered among the most famous Hindu temples in the country (it is amazing how many Hindu temples have been built in the last 50 years).

The temple is open to visitors on weekdays from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm and on weekends from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.

  • Remarks: Oldest Hindu Temple In USA

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Georgia

The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a traditional Hindu place of worship in Atlanta, inaugurated in 2007. It was the largest mandir (or Hindu place of worship) outside India when it was built.

The complex has a large assembly hall, classrooms, an exhibition about the key tenets of Hinduism, and more.

  • Remarks: Constructed With 34,450 pieces of Marble and limestone

Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, Maryland

Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland is among the largest temples in the United States and was built between 1988 and 2002. It is located only 12 kilometers or 8 miles from Washington, DC, in the Maryland city of Lanham.

Learn more about visiting on the temple’s official website.

  • Remarks: Main Deities Shiva and Vishnu

New Vrindaban Temple, West Virginia

The New Vrindaban Temple (also called The Palace of God) is named after the town of Vrindaban in India. Vrindaban is of religious significance to Hinduism, as Krishna is said to have spent most of his childhood in the city.

Today, the city is home to some 5,500 temples dedicated to Krishna and Radha (his chief consort). The New Vrindaban Temple can be visited while hiking sections of the famous Appalachian Trail.

  • Remarks:Stunning Complex on 500 acres of land

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Texas

The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston is one of the top Hindu attractions in Texas, built from over 33,000 pieces of hand-carved marble and limestone. The temple has a Hindu exhibit that explains the fundamental tenets of Hinduism for visitors, and it is open every day for visitors and for worshipers.

The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir should be considered as one of the things to see and do while in Houston.

Restoring the Inclusive Idea of India in the Times of Sectarian Nationalism

Satyapal Malik, the ex-Governor of many states stated that the role of Pulwama and Balakot was very much there in the victory of Modi-BJP in the previous 2019 General elections. He also predicted some other major spectacle may happen before the 2024 elections. The hysteria created around the temple consecration is a spectacle of high order. At the same time Suranya Aiyer, a lawyer and author has undertaken a fast and penitence, calling it 72 hours of love and sorrow to fellow Muslims. She proclaims her pride in Mughal heritage. One can see the creation of a stifling atmosphere of divisiveness around, which sounds very intimidating.

As such temple inaugurations have also been occasions of promoting communal harmony as a couple of instances will show. Mahatma Gandhi while inaugurating Laxminarayan Temple (Birla Temple) in Delhi in 1939 had stated, “It must be the daily prayer of every adherent of the Hindu faith…that every known religion of the world should grow from day to day and should serve the whole of humanity…I hope that these temples will serve to propagate the idea of equal respect for religions and to make communal jealousies and strife; things of the past.”

More or less on similar lines Swami Vivekananda had earlier stated, (1997) ““it is here in India that Hindus have built and are still building churches for Christians and mosques for Mohammedans.” In his book ‘Lectures from Colombo to Almora’ we see Swamiji stating “Nay more, to understand that not only should we be charitable, but also positively helpful to each other, however different our religious ideas and convictions may be. And that is exactly what we do in India as I have just related to you… That is the thing to do.”

The present atmosphere is in total contrast to this as reflected by the fast of Suranya. It is also reflected in the incidents where cultural activists screening censor approved all time classic by Anand Patwardhan, ‘Ram Ke Naam’ are being arrested and issued non bailable arrest warrants. This happened in Hyderabad on 20th January.

Then there are claims by the likes of Prafulla Ketkar, Editor of unofficial RSS mouthpiece Organiser claiming that “the pran-pratishta (consecration ceremony) of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya was not simply the culmination of the decades-old Ram Janmabhoomi movement, but the beginning of a “reconstruction of national consciousness”. This essentially means the whole process of social change and the idea of India which accompanied the freedom movement now stands to be negated and what can roughly called ‘Hindu India’ is already there and multiple steps towards Hindu rashtra have been achieved by the communal forces.

What accompanied the ‘Idea of India’ was a coming together of different sections of society to fight the colonial powers, with the aspirations of striving for Liberty Equality, Fraternity and Justice for all. This massive movement had the overarching ‘Idea of India’, which culminated in the values of Indian Constitution.

There were challenges to this idea of India, which were rooted in the values of Kingdoms and what can be roughly called feudal society. The core of these values which are being hailed by the forces creating hysteria around temple consecration were/are the birth based hierarchies of caste, class and gender. The roots of these lay in the Kings and landlords of different religions and their ideologues who came forward as Muslim League, Hindu Mahasabah and RSS. While Muslim communal forces are implementing their idea of feudal values in Pakistan, the Hindu communal forces are now rejoicing, in gradually increasing intensity, now reaching its semi-peak with Ram Temple consecration.

The idea of India of freedom movement got manifested in the values of Bhagat Singh, Ambedkar and Gandhi focusing on Liberty Equality and Fraternity or friendship. Despite few differences with the father of Nation, Subhash Chandra Bose was also firmly committed to this “idea of India’.

The elite landlord and Manusmiriti worshipping ideology was the social base of Hindu Rashtra, Hindutva. These forces and this ideology have grown stronger particularly during last four decades and are rejoicing the sectarianism becoming stronger by the day. They are also giving narrow projection of the temple consecration in contrast to what Gandhi and Vivekananda stood. The sectarian nationalists are for the further deepening of particular ‘civilizational values’ inherent in what can be called as Brahmanism inherent in Manusmriti.

Those standing for doing away with the values of Manusmriti, those integrating all into the umbrella of Indian-ness, those who have stood together cutting across class, caste and gender are currently under different types of intimidations of Hindu India, the parallel and opposite of Muslim Pakistan are emerging.

The only ray of hope for ‘idea of India’ is the same classes of society who ushered in the Idea of India during freedom movement to come together. It is their collective movement; the overarching effort to undermine the forces which gloat over the birth based hierarchical values in the name of religion, those who uphold the Holy Scriptures in contrast to the Indian Constitution. Their movements have been scattered. Their group interests may be different but their interests in protecting the Indian Constitution and Idea of India which emerged during freedom movements does need a collective expression, cutting across the groups- party lines.

Many non sectarian parties do exist today. The predecessors of many of these had fought the British colonial powers together despite their differences. It is time that the social and political alliance of these sections of society given primacy. As colonial rule was detrimental to the interests of large sections of society, similarly those in power ruling through polarization are also out to undermine the rights of weaker sections of society. This is abundantly clear during the last ten years or so.

Hysteria cannot be combated by hysteria. We need the ideology which binds the weaker sections of society, the dalits, religious minorities, women, workers and Adivasis. They have many common values to protect and that is the ‘Idea of India’ which came with freedom movement. Can Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra be the first step in building such a common platform, can the yatra succeed in doing this is the question baying us all?

New Yorkers Celebrate Inauguration Of Ram Mandir With Car Rally

Being thousands of miles away from Ayodhya, where a monumental Temple in honor of Lord Ram was inaugurated this month, Indian Americans living in the United States and other countries celebrated this historic occasion, showcasing their unbridled enthusiasm and reverence to Lord Ram.

image1Braving the sub-zero temperatures, hundreds of enthusiastic Non-Resident Indians filled the streets of New York with a Car Rally on January 21st, 2024. Devotion to Lord Ram filled up the air in New York as over 150 cars drove through the busy streets starting in Hicksville, NY, while thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate and show their devotion and solidarity to Ram Mandir’s consecration in Ayodhya.

The car rally was organized by the ASA MAI Hindu Temple in New York as a way of expressing gratitude and joy for welcoming Lord Sri Ram to the newly constructed Temple that has been awaited for almost 500+ years.

Starting the car rally from Patel Brothers in Hicksville in Long Island, New York,  a hamlet within the Town of Oyster Bay in Nassau County on Long Island, in New York, with a large Indian American population, the car rally halted midway at a Gurudwara in Hicksville. Dr Raj Bhayani said, “The Hindu, Sikh, Jains and Buddhist communities have all come together to celebrate this historic moment.”\

Floats that were part of the rally had DJ which played Bhajans devoted to Lord Ram, while others played videos on large screens from the epic TV seria, Ramayana, and other floats displayed images of the Rama Mandir.

Indian Americans who were part of the rally wore the saffron scarf with Hanuman and Rama pictures in them, with the bitter cold conditions not dampen the enthusiasm and the celebratory mood.

In addition to the cars, the floats and the LED trucks with children dressed as Ramayana characters such as Rama,image0 Sita, Laxman, and Hanuman,  brought the experience and excitement to the rally. Each car was adorned with saffron-colored flags. The huge lineup of cars finally reached the beautiful AsaMai temple in Hicksville. LED Truck displayed Ramayana and float carried the banners celebrating Ram Mandir. The entire event was telecast live on AASTHA TV AND radio Zindagi.

Dr. Raj Bhayani, Mukesh Modi, Dr. Dipak Nandi, Mohan Wanchoo, Naveen Shah, Chintu Patel, Gary Sikka, and Dr Neeta Jain were among others who had organized the cart rally. The committee comprised of Sunil Hali, Gobind Bhatija, Pradeep Tandon, Dr Urmilesh Arya, Vimal Goyal, Eric Kumar, Kanak Goliya, Kishore Malik, Harahad Bhai Patel, Vibhuti Jha, Mohinder Taneja, Dr Satish Anand, Dr Inderpal Chhabra, and Ajay Patel.

Sundance Film Festival Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Diverse Lineup of Films

Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck reflect on their early days at the Sundance Film Festival, recalling the excitement of being newcomers in 2004. Their short film, “Gowanus, Brooklyn,” not only won an award but also garnered enough support to develop the feature version, “Half Nelson,” which later earned Ryan Gosling an Oscar nomination.

“I remember being like, oh my God, this festival has been around 20 years, it’s such an old festival,” Boden reminisced. “Now it’s 20 years later, and we’re the old people.”

In an interview with The Associated Press, Boden expressed the relativity of the term “old” at Sundance, a discovery festival where emerging directors have the opportunity to make a breakthrough. Boden and Fleck, like many other Sundance alumni, have moved on to larger projects, such as their work on “Captain Marvel.”

Their latest film, “Freaky Tales,” a tribute to Fleck’s hometown, Oakland, in the 1980s, is set to debut on the opening night of the 40th edition of the festival at the Eccles Theater. Featuring Pedro Pascal, Jay Ellis, Dominique Thorne, and Ben Mendelsohn, the film is described by Boden as a “movie lover’s movie” with a blend of reality and fantasy.

The festival’s first day also premieres several high-profile documentaries, including Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine’s “Girls State,” Yance Ford’s “Power,” and “Frida,” directed by Carla Gutiérrez. In “Frida,” Gutiérrez utilizes Kahlo’s own words from her diary and letters to provide an intimate and raw portrayal of the iconic artist.

Gutiérrez, an immigrant and former art student, expressed her admiration for Frida Kahlo, stating, “Uncovering her own words and her own voice, I think what we’re presenting is a new way of getting into her world and in her mind and her heart and really understanding the art in a more intimate, raw way.”

The festival lineup includes a variety of anticipated documentaries, such as “Daughters,” “Gaucho Gaucho,” “Sue Bird: In the Clutch,” “DEVO,” “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” “Seeking Mavis Beacon,” and “The Greatest Night in Pop.”

Celebrities expected to attend Sundance this year include Kristen Stewart, Saoirse Ronan, Kieran Culkin, Sebastian Stan, Glen Powell, Woody Harrelson, Steven Yeun, Lucy Liu, Danielle Deadwyler, Aubrey Plaza, Melissa Barrera, and Laura Linney.

Chiwetel Ejiofor will present his sophomore feature, “Rob Peace,” a biographical drama about the short life of a brilliant kid from East Orange, New Jersey. Ejiofor expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s a dream to take this film there as well. It’s an American story, it’s an independent film, and it wants to sit in that world.”

Sundance programmers meticulously selected 83 feature films from 17,435 submissions, showcasing a diverse mix of behind-the-camera talent. The lineup includes new episodic projects from Debra Granik and Richard Linklater, along with 31 feature debuts.

First-time director Carla Gutiérrez and acclaimed contemporary artist Titus Kaphar, making his narrative debut with “Exhibiting Forgiveness,” are among those presenting their work. Kaphar, expressing his gratitude, said, “My favorite films are Sundance films. To be allowed into this new community of artists, a community of directors and filmmakers… it’s pretty extraordinary.”

Jesse Eisenberg, a Sundance regular since “The Squid and the Whale,” brings his film, “A Real Pain,” which explores modern pain versus historical pain. Eisenberg wrote and directed the film, emphasizing its humor and lightness.

Sundance, founded by Robert Redford, is celebrating its 40th anniversary by honoring the art that has emerged over the decades. The “all-time top 10” list includes classics like Joel and Ethan Coen’s “Blood Simple,” Soderbergh’s “sex, lies and videotape,” Jordan Peele’s “Get Out,” and Damien Chazelle’s “Whiplash.”

Festival director Eugene Hernandez acknowledged the vibrancy in this year’s lineup, reminiscent of the festival’s early days in the 1990s. “It’s such a rich, rich combination of films that I think exhibit some really wild and adventurous creativity,” Hernandez commented. “That is really nourishing in a year when we’re acknowledging and marking this 40th edition of Sundance.”

The Sundance Film Festival will run from Jan. 18 through Jan. 28, offering audiences a diverse array of films and celebrating four decades of groundbreaking cinema.

The makers of the unconventional superhero film ‘American Sikh’

(RNS) — Once the idea for Sikh Captain America — a turbaned, bearded version of the Marvel comic hero — was born, it took more than a year for him to appear on the streets of his native New York City.

The creation of Vishavjit Singh, a writer and illustrator in Harlem, and the photographer Fiona Aboud, who was working on a photo project, “Sikhs: An American Portrait,” the character is a social experiment about what it means to be American, and to be Sikh in America. Now, it is also a short animated film by Singh and Ryan Westra that recently premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.

The film tells the true story of Singh, 52, who, besides inventing Sikhtoons.com in the face of anti-Sikh bigotry after 9/11, is a performance artist and diversity speaker. After a lifetime of facing prejudice, self-doubt and violence, his animated self, as in life, finally finds acceptance in a superhero costume. He first drew Captain America in a turban and beard in 2011, but it took almost a year after Aboud discovered the character to convince Singh to step out as Sikh Captain America on the streets, where his mission is to tackle bias and intolerance, powered by his humor, turban, beard and storytelling prowess.

webRNS American Sikh1 091321 1536x864
Picture: Religion News

I had the opportunity to speak with Singh and Westra to discuss the what, why and how of “American Sikh.” This interview has been adapted for clarity and concision.

How did this film come together?

RW: In 2014, as my very last student project in film school, I happened to be assigned to do a live action documentary about Vishavjit’s work as Sikh Captain America. While shooting that project (“Red, White, and Beard”), I was so impressed by Vishavjit’s ability to inspire people to open up about their stereotypes and biases in a positive way. Yet as we wrapped the shoot, I watched a stranger on the street call Vishavjit “Osama bin Laden,” moments after changing out of his superhero costume.

It was a shocking juxtaposition to witness, and it made Vishavjit’s work even more impactful to me. Ever since then, I had been interested in working with Vishavjit again on a more in-depth and ambitious project. In 2019, I reached out with the idea of doing an animated short about his life and, more broadly, the struggles that the Sikh community has gone through.

What do you hope the film will accomplish?

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Picture: Religion

RW: In a recent interview, our incredible executive producer, Vikas Khanna, had a beautiful answer to this question. He said, “I believe that the answer to hate cannot be hate.” With the difficult times we are facing right now around the world, I think now, more than ever, is a perfect time for us to gain greater understanding, empathy and compassion for those around us.

VS: I’ve spent years traveling around the nation visiting schools, companies and government agencies to share my story and create a space for conversations about identity, bias, vulnerability and transformative power of art. I hope in amplifying this message via an animated film, we can encourage others to do the same with their story.

I hope this film opens doors for the most underrepresented and misrepresented stories to be shared across American media, cultural and entertainment landscape.

RW: Unfortunately, especially since 9/11, turbans and beards have been villainized and portrayed as un-American in the media. Sikh Captain America challenges those stereotypes in a lighthearted, creative and familiar way. Our hope is that this image sticks with people, and they are able to walk away with a greater empathy for all Americans who, as Vishavjit says, “look a little different.”

What’s been most gratifying so far now that audiences have seen the movie?

VS: Hearing feedback from people from varying backgrounds about connections they find with my story.

RW: It’s extremely exciting to be working with Vishavjit on such a historic project. Never has an American Sikh story reached this level of prominence. With so little representation in the media, it’s exciting that we have the privilege of introducing Vishavjit’s beautiful religion and work to so many for the first time.

How does this film depict Sikh characters differently than other media?

VS: Much of the Sikh media I’ve seen has been created by Sikhs for Sikhs. This film is meant for people who maybe have had little to no experience with Sikhs. It’s created with a national audience in mind and tells a story that is relatable to many Americans, not just Sikhs.

What were some of the biggest challenges to pulling this story together?

VS: With animation being extremely expensive, we had a lot of back and forth narrowing down the few key chapters of my life to tell the most compelling and concise story. There were 30 different cuts of the film that we user-tested on Ryan’s friends and family who knew nothing about me or Sikhism at all. This helped us pick the most impactful moments. But there are a few poignant moments and experiences that did not make it into the final version of the film that I typically include in my life story.

Did you ever doubt that animation was the right medium?

VS: We knew there are two major tragedies that are part of this story — the 1984 genocidal massacre of Sikhs in India, which I survived, and the post-9/11 hate/bias crime wave, which targeted many Sikhs, including me. One of the main reasons we chose animation was it allowed us to showcase these tragedies without overwhelming the viewer.

RW: We didn’t want the tone to focus too much on tragedy, but rather leave the audience feeling inspired and encouraged at the end.

Where do you go from here?

VS: The “American Sikh” has had an amazing journey on the film festival circuit. We always wanted this film to be accessible to American and global audiences. Ryan and I are also writing pitches for full-length films and series. We would love to tell a more comprehensive American story with a Sikh lead character.

RW: We are interested in working together again on a longer and more ambitious project featuring a Sikh lead character. We want to make Sikh characters a part of the bigger cultural landscape we see in all media — not just exclusively Sikh stories.

Ancient Palace of Aigai, Where Alexander the Great Ascended, Reopens After 16-Year Restoration, Unveiling a Storied Legacy

Greece has officially reopened the historic Palace of Aigai, a site of immense significance where Alexander the Great ascended to the throne of Macedonia approximately 2,400 years ago. The restoration project aimed at reviving this architectural marvel, formally known as the Royal Metropolis of the Macedonians, marks a pivotal moment in Greek history and cultural preservation.

The Palace of Aigai, boasting an expansive area of about 15,000 square meters, held the distinction of being the largest structure in classical Greece. Constructed primarily in the 4th century BCE, it was the brainchild of Philip II of Macedonia, the father of the legendary Alexander the Great. The unveiling ceremony witnessed the presence of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who underscored the site’s historical significance.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Mitsotakis stated, “It is the place where Alexander the Great was crowned king, a short while after his father’s assassination, to start his glorious campaign.” This marked the commencement of Alexander’s awe-inspiring conquests, which spanned from contemporary Greece to the expanses of Egypt, Iran, and even reaching as far as northern India and central Asia.

Alexander’s rule, a transformative period known as the Hellenistic era, reshaped the geopolitical landscape and laid the groundwork for the subsequent rise of the Roman Empire. The vast territory he conquered during his reign had a lasting impact, influencing Greek culture in the eastern Mediterranean region for the next millennium. Additionally, the prevalence of Greek language in the conquered territories led to the composition of numerous significant texts, including early versions of the New Testament.

However, the grandeur of the Palace of Aigai suffered a setback when the Romans razed it to the ground in 148 BCE. Subsequently, the site became a target for looting over the years, further diminishing its once-majestic stature.

Restoring this historical landmark to its former glory posed a formidable challenge. The Greek government, with support from the European Union, embarked on a comprehensive restoration initiative that spanned an impressive 16 years and required an investment exceeding 20 million euros ($21.9 million), as reported by the Greek Cultural Ministry.

Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasized the global significance of the restoration project, stating, “What we are doing today is an event of global importance and international scope.” The meticulous efforts encompassed excavating the site, documenting and conserving discovered artifacts, and undertaking extensive restoration work. Notably, the government revived 1,400 square meters of mosaics, marble flooring, and several columns while preserving the overall appearance of the ancient ruin, as confirmed by the country’s cultural ministry.

In reflecting on the broader implications of such endeavors, Mitsotakis remarked, “The importance of such monuments transcends local boundaries, becoming the property of all humanity. And we, as the custodians of this precious cultural heritage, must protect it, highlight it, promote it and at the same time expand the horizons revealed by each new facet.”

The reopening of the Palace of Aigai stands as a testament to the commitment of the Greek government and its collaborators to safeguarding and celebrating the rich cultural heritage that resonates far beyond the borders of Greece. The revitalized palace now serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era when Alexander the Great’s vision and leadership left an indelible mark on the course of history.

Jeena Raghavan’s Artistic Odyssey: A Kaleidoscope of Cultures and Colors, Unveiling the Intersection of Heritage and Modernity

Embarking on the journey of an artist is undeniably intricate and demanding. Jeena Raghavan’s artistic odyssey unfolds as a vibrant tale, traversing continents and cultures, driven by an unwavering pursuit of creative expression. Born in England, Jeena commenced her artistic endeavors at a young age, revealing an inherent talent for painting that would later burgeon into a remarkable career.

At the tender age of six, Jeena’s life underwent a transformative shift as she relocated to India, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of the country’s art and heritage. This early exposure became the cornerstone of her artistic identity, laying the groundwork for the amalgamation of Eastern and Western influences that would characterize her work.

“Jeena’s early years in India were pivotal in shaping her artistic sensibilities, providing a cultural foundation that resonates in her creations today,” remarked a source close to the artist.

The precocious artist’s talents did not go unnoticed, and by the age of 13, she organized her inaugural exhibition in London. Her art, themed around the revered Indian deity Ganesha, served a charitable cause, showcasing a profound connection to her roots and a commitment to making a positive impact.

IMG 7790
Picture: INDIASPORA

Jeena’s artistic journey reached another milestone when she ventured across the Atlantic to New York, enrolling at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. The bustling metropolis, with its fast-paced environment, presented both a challenge and a canvas for her creativity. Unfazed by the complexities of establishing herself in a foreign land, Jeena embraced every moment, transforming her struggles into wellsprings of inspiration.

Her involvement with the Agastya International Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to education, exemplifies Jeena’s dedication to leveraging art for positive change. Collaborating with the foundation, she played a pivotal role in bringing creative learning to millions of underprivileged children across India. During the trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeena extended her philanthropic efforts, pledging 50% of her art sales to a relief fund supporting families of migrant workers severely affected by the crisis.

“In times of adversity, Jeena’s commitment to social causes through her art becomes even more pronounced. She truly believes in the transformative power of creativity,” stated a spokesperson for the Agastya International Foundation.

Over the past year, Jeena made a significant impact on the New York art scene, with three out of four shows hosted at Lavan Chelsea, organized by Jake Henzo and Soiree Henzo. These exhibitions not only showcased her technical prowess but also conveyed a profound connection to her roots and a captivating narrative of self-discovery.

“Jeena’s art is a testament to the intersection of her Indian heritage and the dynamic lifestyle of New York City. Each painting serves as a visual journal, offering a glimpse into her upbringing in England and India,” commented an art critic.

Her latest group show, themed ‘Vulnerability,’ resonated deeply with viewers, drawing attention to her large, evocative paintings. Jeena’s love for nature permeates her work, with foxes, bulls, and horses vividly appearing amidst abstract backgrounds and figurative compositions.

The show itself garnered significant attention, described by one media outlet as a ‘Grassroots Assault on Chelsea’s Elitist Gallery Culture.’ With nearly 1500 attendees, the event marked a triumph for young, talented artists from diverse backgrounds, challenging the established elite.

As Jeena looks forward to 2024, she envisions a defining chapter in her artistic journey, with two solo shows scheduled in the West Village and Lower East Side in Manhattan. Curated by Katie Mangurian, who appreciates the rawness and genuine quality of Jeena’s art, these exhibitions are poised to be milestones in her evolving career.

“Jeena’s upcoming solo shows promise to be a showcase of her growth and artistic maturity. Katie Mangurian’s curation underscores the unique qualities that set Jeena’s work apart,” remarked an art industry insider.

Jeena infuses her unyielding love for art with the diverse experiences of her multicultural life, extracting colors, themes, and textures that are truly extraordinary. Her experimentation with mixed media adds depth and multiple layers to her work, resulting in art that mesmerizes viewers and evokes inexplicable emotions, a hallmark of great art.

Jeena’s artistic journey, a fellow artist expressed, “Jeena has a rare ability to translate her life experiences into a visual language that resonates universally. Her art is a powerful reflection of her journey, connecting cultures and inspiring change.”

Mass Wedding in Kabul: A Symbol of Love Amid Economic Challenges

In a heartwarming display of unity and resilience, a mass wedding ceremony recently took place in Kabul, Afghanistan, involving 50 couples. These collective celebrations have become increasingly common as low-income couples seek alternatives to the exorbitant costs associated with traditional weddings.

The brides, veiled and concealed in a separate wing, made their appearance only after the midday meal, according to reports from local media. The event, meticulously organized by a charitable organization, not only joined couples in matrimony but also provided them with essential items such as carpets and household appliances to help them embark on their married lives.

An official from the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice addressed the attendees during the understated ceremonies. While Koranic recitations filled the air, it’s important to note that dancing and music, once integral parts of joyous occasions, remain effectively banned by the Taliban rulers who returned to power in August 2021.

The newlyweds, adorned in traditional attire, were whisked away in cars adorned with green ribbons and heart-shaped red plastic roses. This poignant scene symbolized not only the union of hearts but also the hope for a shared future despite the challenges imposed by societal restrictions.

Roohullah Rezayi, an 18-year-old from the Hazara Shia Muslim minority in Ghor province, shared with AFP news agency the financial constraints that led him to opt for a mass wedding. He revealed, “A traditional wedding would have cost us at least 200,000 to 250,000 Afghanis [£2,220 to £2,770; $2,800 to $3,600], but this time it will be between 10,000 and 15,000 Afghanis.” Roohullah, who earns a modest income of 350 Afghanis per day through odd jobs, emphasized the financial relief provided by this collective celebration. “We invited 35 people from our two families; otherwise, it would have been 300 to 400,” he added.

For many grooms, like 23-year-old Samiullah Zamani, a farmer from Kabul province, the mass wedding marked the end of a prolonged wait. Expressing his excitement, Samiullah said, “I’ve been waiting for this day for three years. I can’t wait to see her.”

This mass wedding serves as a testament to the economic challenges faced by the Afghan populace, particularly the lower-income individuals who struggle to finance elaborate ceremonies. It reflects a growing trend where couples are opting for more affordable and practical alternatives to celebrate their love, even in the face of societal constraints.

The choice to organize such collective ceremonies not only alleviates the financial burden on individual couples but also underscores the resilience of the Afghan people in finding ways to celebrate love and commitment. The provision of essential items by the organizing charity further emphasizes the collaborative effort to support these couples as they embark on their marital journeys.

While the traditional elements of music and dance may be absent due to the prevailing restrictions, the couples’ joy and the communal celebration paint a picture of hope and unity. The decorated cars carrying the newlyweds through the streets serve as a visual representation of the community’s support for these unions, despite the challenges imposed by the current political climate.

As the newlyweds begin their lives together, this mass wedding stands as a poignant reminder of the strength of love and the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. It signifies a departure from extravagant ceremonies, highlighting the importance of simplicity, unity, and community support in celebrating the enduring bonds of marriage.

Over 5000 American Diamonds Adorn The Necklace On Theme Of Ram Temple

In a show of excellent craftsmanship,a diamond merchant has made a necklace on the theme of the Ram Temple by using over 5000 American diamonds.

The Surat-based diamond merchant has decided to gift it to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust has decided to enthrone Ram Lalla at the sanctum-sanctorum of the Ram Temple at noon on January 22, next year.

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, holds great spiritual, historical and cultural significance for the people of India.

Director of Rasesh Jewels, Kaushik Kakadiya said, “More than 5000 American diamonds have been used. It is made of 2 kg silver. We were inspired by the newly built Ram Temple in Ayodhya.”

He added, “This is not for any commercial purpose. We want to gift it to the Ram Temple. We made it with the intention that we also wanted to gift something to the Ram Temple.
“The main characters of the Ramayana are carved in the string of the necklace,” he concluded.

Over 5000 American Diamonds Adorn The Necklace On Theme Of Ram Temple (ANI)
Picture: ANI

Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony of Ram Lalla (infant Lord Ram) in Ayodhya will begin on January 16, next year, a week before the main ceremony.

A Vedic priest from Varanasi, Lakshmi Kant Dixit, will perform the main rituals of the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla on January 22. From January 14 to January 22, Ayodhya will mark the Amrit Mahautsav.

A 1008 Hundi Mahayagya will also be organised in which thousands of devotees will be fed.
Several tent cities are being erected in Ayodhya to accommodate thousands of devotees, who are expected to arrive in the temple town of Uttar Pradesh for the grand consecration of the Ram Temple.

According to the Sri Ram Janambhoomi Trust, arrangements will be made for 10,000-15,000 people. Local authorities are gearing up for the anticipated surge in visitors around the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony and are in the process of implementing enhanced security measures and making logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for all attendees.

Sikh International Film Festival 2023 Showcases A Cinematic Journey of Sikh Heritage and Diversity

In the bustling heart of the city that never sleeps, the Sikh International Film Festival 2023 unfurled a spellbinding tale of Sikh heritage and cultural diversity at the prestigious Rubin Museum on December 16th. This year’s festival treated the audience to an enchanting journey through impactful stories, with standout films like

 “Baywatana: Without a Country’, directed by high school students from Boston”, explored the plight of Sikhs and Hindus in Taliban-era Afghanistan.

“American Sikh”, is a true story of Indian American Sikh who was trying to assimilate with the Americans. The Oscar qualified animated short film is a story of American Sikh Hero Vishvajit Singh and Produced by Guneet Monga Kapoor – Oscar-winning producer (The Elephant Whisperers) and Michelin-starred chef-filmmaker Vikas Khanna and directed and illustrated by American Sikh Hero Vishavjit Singh and Ryan Westra.  Vikas Khanna said, “One of the highlights of screening ‘American Sikh’ at Sikh International Film Festival was engaging the little ones and the youth who could see themselves reflected in our film. Their dreams and hopes keep me inspired.”

Photo: Jay Mandal/On Assignment
Photo: Jay Mandal/On Assignment

“Colonel Kalsi: Beyond the Call”: is another true story of a Sikh young Kamal Kalsi who fought to serve in the US Army with his turban and beard. The film explores themes of diversity, sacrifice, faith, identity and resilience. Colonel Kalsi expressed, “Serving in the Army with my unique camo turban and beard was a profound experience of celebrating my Sikh identity while embodying the spirit of American patriotism…”

As the curtains closed on these impactful narratives, the festival featured over 10 films, covering a diverse range of topics from current affairs to historical perspectives. Teji Bindra (Founder and President of Sikh Art & Film Foundation), Mandeep Sobti (Senior VP and Chair of Finance), Dr Paul Johar (Chair SAFF – Film Festival), Harmeet Bharara ( Former Chair FF and Gala), Hansdip Bindra ( Head of PR and Marketing), expressed their satisfaction with the films that captivated a packed auditorium at the Rubin Museum in Manhattan.

Teji Bindra emphasized, “Sikh Art & Film Foundation has been at the forefront in bringing better awareness of Sikhs through films and arts for the past 17 years. We are pleased with the fantastic movies showcased this year.”

Dr. Paul Johar added, “This year’s Sikh International Film Festival showcased a powerful lineup addressingSikh International Film Festival 2023 Showcases A Cinematic Journey of Sikh Heritage and Diversity contemporary Sikh Diaspora issues, delved into the challenges faced by the community. “Amardeep Singh’s documentary, “Oneness in Diversity: Elixir of Guru Nanak and the Indic Saints,” intertwined memories of Saints and Sufi mystics, emphasizing the essential theme of oneness and diversity. The festival, with its captivating stories and impactful quotes from filmmakers, not only celebrated Sikh culture but also provided a dynamic platform for filmmakers to showcase their artistry.

The Sikh International Film Festival, originating in 2004, has been a cultural beacon, fostering awareness of Sikh culture through films and arts. As the curtains closed on this year’s festival, the organizers expressed gratitude to viewers for their unwavering support, marking a significant chapter in the festival’s journey. The success of SIFF 2023 promises an even brighter future, continuing to celebrate Sikh heritage and diversity through the captivating lens of cinema.

Website: http://sikharts.com/film-festival.html

2023 in Retrospect: A Journey Through Time – Unveiling the Historical Tapestry of Triumphs, Tragedies, and Cultural Milestones

In the course of 2023, numerous significant events unfolded, capturing global attention and shaping the contemporary narrative. However, amidst the unfolding present, it is crucial to cast our gaze into the corridors of history, acknowledging pivotal moments that transpired in bygone years. As we delve into the annals of time, we encounter a tapestry woven with milestones spanning various decades, each contributing to the rich mosaic of our collective past.

Half a century ago, the vibrant beats of hip-hop echoed through the Bronx at a groundbreaking party. Simultaneously, a month later, the specter of a brutal military coup in Chile reverberated across South America, jolting many Americans into a heightened political awareness. This juxtaposition encapsulates the dichotomy of historical events, where cultural revolutions and geopolitical upheavals coexist within the same temporal frame.

Six decades have elapsed since a quarter of a million people converged in Washington, D.C., for the historic March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. This pivotal moment, marked by the resonance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, was followed by the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas three months later. These events, though distinct, are threads intricately woven into the fabric of the 1960s.

Moving back 75 years, the birth of the nation of Israel stands in stark contrast to the Palestinian Nakba, commemorating 75 years of sorrow and displacement. This historical paradox underscores the enduring complexities of the Middle East conflict, where the narratives of independence and catastrophe intersect and diverge.

As we embark on a retrospective journey through the months of the year, let us traverse the historical landscape, pausing to reflect on the resonance of each significant event.

January:

In 2013, amidst a world that seemed ablaze with challenges, the iconic “this is fine” meme emerged from Question Hound’s comic strip, becoming a cultural touchstone. Meanwhile, 1943 witnessed the nationwide release of “Casablanca” in the U.S., a film depicting refugees fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe, its cast including actors who themselves had sought refuge.

February:

The year 2003 was marred by tragedy as the space shuttle Columbia disintegrated over Texas, claiming the lives of seven astronauts. The same year, Secretary of State Colin Powell delivered a speech to the United Nations Security Council, erroneously claiming Iraqi possession of weapons of mass destruction. Additionally, 1993 marked the federal raid on the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas, leading to a tragic siege.

March:

In 2003, President George W. Bush’s decision to send U.S. troops to invade Iraq unfolded, ushering in a war with profound and enduring consequences. The invasion, remembered by U.S. veterans, was characterized by the military’s “shock and awe” campaign. Simultaneously, the release of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” in 1973 added a musical dimension to the historical tapestry.

April:

In 2003, the English translation of Marjane Satrapi’s classic memoir, “Persepolis,” entered the public domain, offering a poignant narrative of a girl’s coming of age during the Iranian revolution. Meanwhile, 1993 witnessed the public debut of the World Wide Web, revolutionizing global communication.

May:

1963 witnessed the “Children’s Crusade” in Birmingham, Alabama, where young students peacefully marched for an end to segregation, inspiring support for the Civil Rights Act. The same year, Israel was established, leading to the displacement of Palestinians, an event etched in history as the Nakba.

June:

The year 2013 saw revelations about mass data collection by the NSA, courtesy of Edward Snowden, reshaping public understanding of government surveillance. Meanwhile, in 1983, NASA mission specialist Sally Ride made history as the first American woman in space aboard the Challenger space shuttle.

July:

1963 marked the introduction of ZIP codes, streamlining mail sorting. Concurrently, a group of Black girls faced arrest during a march for desegregation, highlighting the ongoing struggle against racial inequality.

August:

In 1993, alternative rock band The Breeders gained prominence with their breakout album, “Last Splash.” The birth of hip-hop in a Bronx community room in 1973 marked a cultural milestone. Additionally, the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom drew over 250,000 people, with Martin Luther King Jr. delivering his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

September:

The year 2003 saw the passing of Johnny Cash, a musical icon whose songs resonated with generations. In 1973, Chile’s socialist president Salvador Allende was overthrown in a military coup, ushering in a dark period of dictatorship.

October:

The gruesome killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 by Saudi agents underscored the complex geopolitical landscape. In 1973, a surprise attack by Arab countries initiated the Yom Kippur War, shaping subsequent U.S. foreign and energy policies.

November:

In 2003, the Concorde made its final flight, marking the end of a groundbreaking era in aviation. The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963 cast a shadow over the nation.

December:

2013 witnessed the passing of Nelson Mandela, a symbol of the struggle against apartheid. In 1983, the Talking Heads recorded the acclaimed concert film “Stop Making Sense,” delving into the band’s creative process. The release of “The Exorcist” in 1973 challenged societal perceptions of horror and faith.

As we traverse the historical landscape of 2023, each month unveils layers of the past, intertwining moments of triumph and tragedy, cultural evolution, and political revolutions. These anniversaries serve as poignant reminders that our present is intricately connected to the threads of history, weaving a narrative that continues to shape our collective identity.

Vettuvan Koil – Temple of the Slayer

Vettuvan Koil is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The Dravidian-style temple is located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, precisely in the district of Thoothukudi, Kalugumalai. The monolithic temple is known for its rock-cut Pandyan architecture. The temple is claimed to have been an unfinished work in the early 8th century by the Pandya rulers.

The temple is currently maintained and administered by the Department of Archaeology of the government of Tamil Nadu.

History

It is believed that the temple was built in the 8th century, which was the early Pandyan era, under the leadership of Parandhagan Netunjadaiyan. It was built along the Kalugumalai Jain Beds. It’s a monument dedicated to Lord Shiva, and from the rectangular rock in Vettuvan Koil, a Dravida vimana is emerging. Not much history about Koil is available about the temple other than the myths and tales associated with it.

Vettuvan KoilGeography

The temple is perched atop a stone hillock towards the eastern side. It opens up a view to the east. The entry path lines the western hillside, the Kalugumalai Jain Beds (Highway 187). The upper section of the Vettuvan Koil was carved from a single granite rock. The carvings depicted various engravings of “Parsavadevatas,” or the attendant deities of Shiva. These included Goddess Uma, known for fertility, love, beauty, marriage, and children; Goddess Nandi, also known as the gate-guardian deity of Kailsa, the house of Lord Shiva; and artwork of various animals such as monkeys and lions. This architectural beauty creates the illusion of a lotus blossom in bloom.

Tales on Vettuvan Koil

The legend says that the temple was built over a rivalry between a father and son over superior architecture. It is believed that the son built the Murugan shrine, while the father built the Vettuvan Koil. When the son made fun of the koil, the father, out of anger, killed his son. The abandoned temple remains unfinished, followed by the grief of the father.

A different version of the story recites that the father attempted to impart trade knowledge to his son. The son, disregarding his father’s instructions, began carving the inner chambers of the koil. Enraged by his son’s disobedience and hearing the sound, the father killed him.

And with the legends came the names “Temple of the Slayer and “Heaven of Sculptors” for Vettuvan Koil.

Things to do at Vettuvan Koil

On reaching the temple, the viewers are treated to magnificent sculptures of Uma Maheswarar, Dakshinamoorthy, Vishnu, Brahma, and other lords that can be found atop the temple.

Other places nearby to visit during your time at Tirunelveli are:

  • Kanthimathi, or Nelaiyapper Temple, is known for its big size and intricate workmanship on stone. It gives a peaceful place for dharshan and prayers.
  • New Jerusalem Church
  • Ram’s Funn City is a soft play area mainly focused on kids.

Lord Thirukuttralanthar, a historic temple shaped like a conch with hal of paintings or Chitra Sabai of the 5 Sabais

KK Muhammed, An Archaeologist Sheds Light On Ram Temple Excavation

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) held the first webinar of the five-part series focused on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir in association with the Hindu University of America (HUA) on December 9th, 2023.

Padma Shri K.K. Muhammed, a distinguished speaker, provided an informative talk about the excavation history of numerous sites, including the old Babri Masjid, where Islamic structures were constructed atop the foundations of Hindu temples.

KK Muhammed, former Director (North), Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was part of the first excavation that was conducted in the year 1976-77 under BB Lal, former director-general of ASI. Muhammed, who was the only Muslim in the team, claims that there is clear evidence that a grand temple stood at the site.

Subsequently, a second excavation was conducted in 2003 as per the directions of the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court. By this time, the mosque had been destroyed and so a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey could be conducted. All the archaeological discoveries were also videographed and corroborated to the previous findings that indicated a temple. Muhammed maintains that there is enough archaeological proof of a grand temple below the Babri Mosque.

Muhammed briefed the audience on the artifacts found by his team during his excavation. The audience greatly admired his principled stance in standing by Dr. B. Lal’s work and the excavation team he was a part of in the face of vicious attacks from special interests like Irfan Habib and his colleagues.

(Leader Bio)The community memebrs in the audience was pleasantly surprised by the amount of knowledge Muhammed displayed about Hindu traditions, including his flawless recitation of many Sanskrit shlokas from the scriptures.

K K Muhammed had for the first time acknowledged in 1990 through a newspaper article that he had witnessed the remains of a Ram temple under the mosqu. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2019 after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) returned to power at the Centre for a second consecutive term.

The excavation of the Kesariya stupa in Bihar, the Ibadat khana and Christian Chapel in Fatehpur Sikri, and St. Augustin Church in Goa were all undertaken by Muhammed, who retired as regional director from the Archaeological Survey of India. During his career, he has faced many difficult conversations across the nation, frequently enlisting the aid of dacoits in the Chambal valley and the Naxal groups of Chhattisgarh. Several international, national, and state awards have been bestowed upon him in recognition of his exceptional contributions to conservation.

In an earlier posting, KK Muhammed had referred to the following as the proof that he had presented about the existence of not just a temple but one that was dedicated to Lord Vishnu:

Pillars, Base and Kalash

“When we went inside, I saw 12 pillars of the mosque which were made from temple remains. In almost all the temples of the 12th and 13th centuries, you get ‘Purna Kalasha’ at the base. It is the structure of a ‘ghada‘ (water pitcher) from which foliage would be coming out. It is the symbol of prosperity in Hinduism and is known as ‘Asht-Mangala Chinha‘ – one of the eight auspicious symbols.”

“When you go inside, you can see a number of ‘Purna Kalash As‘ and a number of gods and goddesses. Similar things were there in Babri mosque also. There were no gods and goddesses but ‘Ashtamangala Chinha‘ were there. So, on the basis of these, any archaeologist would say that these are temple remains. Subsequently, BB Lal undertook excavations on the western side of the mosque. The pillar bases were also excavated.”

Terracotta Sculptures

“A number of terracotta sculptures were found. If it is a mosque, you will never get the depiction of human beings or animals because it is ‘haraam’ (forbidden or proscribed) in Islam. This means there was a temple. But these findings were not highlighted by BB Lal because our excavation purpose was not to establish whether there was a temple or not. We just wanted to see the cultural sequence of the place.”

Second Excavation

More Pillars Discovered

“In the second excavation, more than 50 pillar bases in 17 rows were exposed. It means that the structure was imposing and large. The structure discovered was a temple below the Babri Mosque and dated back to the 12th century AD.”

Temple ‘Pranala’

“They also got the temple ‘pranali‘. We have to bathe the deity and the ‘abhishek jal‘ flows through ‘pranali‘. The pranali is mostly ‘makara pranali‘, having a crocodile face. Crocodile is a symbol of river Ganga. In some of the temples, before reaching the ‘garbha griha‘ (sanctum sanctorum), on the one side, there would be a lady standing on crocodile and on the other side there would be a lady standing on a tortoise. This means that you are taking a symbolic bath in rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the underground Saraswati. After cleansing yourself of all the previous sins, you are going to the main God. This ‘makara pranali‘ was excavated.”

Temple ‘Kalasha’, Amalkam Grivaha and Shikhara

“Also, on top of the temple just below the ‘kalasha‘, there is another architectural member known as ‘amalka‘. It was also excavated. Below the ‘amalka‘ there is the ‘grivah‘ and also the ‘shikhara’ portion of the temple in North India. Many architectural members of the ‘shikhara‘ were also excavated from there by the team.”

More Terracotta Objects

“Besides, 263 pieces of terracotta objects of various gods and goddesses, human figures and female figures were excavated from there. Had it been a mosque, how could you get these terracotta objects of various living beings? Depiction of any living being is prohibited in Islam. Then how could you get sculptures of living beings had it been a mosque? So, it was not a mosque.”

‘Vishnu Hari Sheela Phalak’ inscription

“Apart from all these things, a ‘Vishnu Hari Sheela Phalak’ inscription was also found in two pieces from the site. Of course, they were not part of the excavations but were found after the demolition of the mosque. But they form a piece of important circumstantial evidence which clearly says the temple has been dedicated to that incarnation of Lord Vishnu who had killed Bali and a 10-headed person.”

In an upcoming webinar, Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi, an Indian lawmaker, will provide a historical perspective, beginning with Babur’s 16th-century destruction of the Ram Mandir and continuing up to the current day.

Garba At Times Square Commemorates UNESCO Inscription

The Consulate General of India in association with the Federation of Federation of Indian Associations NY-NJ-CT-NE held a garba celebration at New York’s iconic Times Square to commemorate the dance’s recent inclusion by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Garba dancers from the Indian American community in colorful attires took to the streets to represent the cultural richness of Gujarat on a global platform. Free transportation, complimentary refreshments and participation certificates were provided for all performing artists. Indian missions across the globe organised Garba programmes to mark the occasion.

“The event was a spectacular showcase of the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat as attendees donned traditional Garba attires,” the organizers said. “The vivid colors and intricate designs of their attire were a sight to behold, and one could feel the energy and pride emanating from them as they represented their culture on a global platform.”

Acting CG of India in NY, Varun Jeph addressing the gathering. / Image – X/@IndiainNewYork

Describing the dance’s inclusion as “momentous and historic occasion”, Acting Consul General of India in New York Dr Varun Jeph hailed the Times Square celebrations as a testament to India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Garba At Times Square Commemorates UNESCO Inscription 3Traditionally performed during Navratri, the nine-day festival that is celebrated to honor the devine feminine energy, Garba is among the oldest folk dances of India. The UNESCO officials appreciated the dance for its “inclusive” nature and hailed it as a symbol of bringing communities together.

Today, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed ‘Garba of Gujarat’ on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during its 18th session, taking place in Kasane, Botswana from 5 to 9 December 2023.

The inclusion of Garba now makes it India’s 15th inscription on the List.

A ritualistic and devotional dance performed throughout the State of Gujarat, and across India, Garba is celebrated for nine days during the festival of Navaratri. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the feminine energy or Shakti. The cultural, performative, and visual expressions of this feminine energy are expressed through the Garba dance. The performative and visual celebration of Garba takes place within homes and temple courtyards, public spaces in villages, urban squares, streets, and large open grounds. Garba thus becomes an all-encompassing participatory community event.

“I offer my sincere congratulations to India, its people and the teams that worked on the nomination dossier. I hope this inscription helps ensure the viability of this tradition and inspires the community, particularly young people, to continue with the knowledge, skills and oral traditions associated with Garba,” said Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO New Delhi Regional Office for South Asia and UNESCO Representative for Bhutan, India, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

Over the decades Garba has been an integral, multivalent component of Gujarati culture in India and among the Indian diaspora across the globe. Garba continues to be a vibrant living tradition. In addition to being a religious ritual, Garba fosters social equality by diluting socio-economic, gender, and rigid sect structures. It continues to be inclusive and participative by diverse and marginalized communities, strengthening community bonds.

The 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, hosted by the Republic of Botswana, was assigned with the job of evaluating nominations submitted by States Parties for inscription on the Lists of the Convention, that include 45 elements for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, 6 elements for inscription on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, 4 proposals for the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices and 1 International Assistance request.

Apart from ‘Garba of Gujarat,’ some of the new inscriptions include Rickshaws and Rickshaw painting in Dhaka from Bangladesh, Songkran in Thailand, traditional Thai New Year festival from Thailand, Hiragasy, a performing art of the Central Highlands of Madagascar, Junkanoo from the Bahamas, and the Procession and celebrations of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday in Sudan, among others.

The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage currently has some 704 elements corresponding to 5 regions and 143 countries. It includes forms of expression that testify to the diversity of intangible heritage and raises awareness of its importance. By enhancing the viability of communities’ cultural practices and know-how, UNESCO aims to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage of communities globally.

Although labeled ‘a ritualistic and devotional dance performed throughout the State of Gujarat’, Garba is a dance of celebration at any joyous event. It is said that Garba originated among the cowherd friends of Krishna in Vrindavan who got together to take off the weariness of their day’s labor with dancing. Going around in circles while clapping their hands and singing was the basic form of that Garba.

India’s current inventory list of Intangible Cultural Heritage includes Garba of Gujarat, Durga Puja in Kolkata, Kumbh Mela, Nawrouz, Yoga, Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making among the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru in Punjab, Sankirtana-ritual singing and drumming and dancing of ManipurBuddhist chanting of Ladakh: recitation of sacred Buddhist texts in the trans-Himalayan Ladakh region in Jammu and Kashmir,  Chhau danceKalbelia folk songs and dances of RajasthanMudiyettu-ritual theatre and dance drama of KeralaKutiyattam-Sanskrit theatreTradition of Vedic chanting and Ramlila-the traditional performance of the Ramayana.

The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage currently has some 704 elements corresponding to 5 regions and 143 countries.

Indian-American Doctor Pledges $4M for Hindu Advocacy in the US

Hinduism is not just a religion, it’s a way of life, a prominent Indian-American physician, who has committed $4 million to advocate Hindu advocacy and awareness causes in the United States, has said.

Emergency care physician Mihir Meghani, who founded the Hindu America Foundation along with his friends two decades ago, has pledged to donate $1.5 million more to the Hindu cause over the next eight years.This contribution will raise his total donations for the cause to $4 million in two decades. He ecognize the pledge early this month at the Hindu America Foundation Gala at the annual Silicon Valley.

Stressing that Hinduism is more than a religion, he aimed to increase understanding and appreciation of Hindu identity among Americans, especially those with a Christian background.

Indian American Doctor Pledges $4M for Hindu Advocacy in the USMeghani emphasized the importance of Hindu Americans being proud of their heritage while actively engaging with others to foster better understanding. The Hindu American Foundation, initially volunteer-driven, has now expanded significantly, with plans for further growth to continue advocating for Hindu causes and enhancing awareness of Hinduism in American society.

The announcement by Dr Meghani pos”Ibly’gives him the distinction of being the biggest Indian American donor for the Hindu cause in the United States.

“My wife, Tanvi and I, have contributed $1.5 million to the Hindu American Foundation thus far. We’ve also contributed a million dollars more over the last 15 years to other Hindu and Indian organisations and causes. Over the next eight years, we’re making a pledge of $1.5 million to pro-India and Hindu organisations,” Dr Meghani told PTI in a recent interview.

“I say this to all of you who are viewing this to realise that I don’t have a startup company. I don’t have any side businesses. I’m an emergency doctor on a salary. My wife is a fitness instructor and a jewellery designer. We’re not making millions of dollars a year. We don’t have stock options. We’re doing this because it’s our Dharma, it’s our duty,” he said.

Just out of university, Dr Meghani and three of his friends Aseem Shukla, an associate professor in urologic surgery; Suhag Shukla, an attorney and Nikhil Joshi, a labour law attorney co-founded the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) in September 2003, the first of its kind Hindu advocacy group in the US.

Responding to a question, Dr Meghani said Hinduism is not as easily understood by most Americans because most Americans are Christian. “They come from an Abrahamic background. When they look at different religions, they can’t understand that Hinduism is not just a religion, it’s a way of life. It’s a way of thinking about life,” he said.

Hindus who are coming from India don’t quite understand that they have a Hindu identity and an Indian national identity, he said, adding: “We need to talk about that”.

“What we need are Hindus to be strong in the Bharatiya or Indian identity, which is the political identity for our ecognizedn, but also they should be very proud and open about their Hindu identity. And when they have that, their coworkers, their friends, and neighbours will understand us better,” he said.

One of the early successes of HAF in Washington DC, he said, was to get Diwali ecognized in the US.

“Now you can see that Diwali is celebrated at the White House, with the Vice President, in the US Congress and all across different state and local governments across the country. But it took time to get there,” he said about the three-year effort by them.

The Hindu American Foundation, which in its initial years was all based on volunteerism, now has an annual budget of $2.5 million and has several full-time staffers. Its goal is to increase its budget to $5 million next year and $20 million by the end of the decade, he said.

‘Masterchef India’ Adds Healthy Twist To Culinary Art With Nutritionist Pooja Makhija

The new episode of the cooking reality show ‘MasterChef India’ sees renowned nutritionist Pooja Makhija gracing the kitchen. She introduces a challenge that tests the culinary talent of the contestants and adds a nutritional dimension to their creations.

The ‘Health Challenge’ will require contestants to create a healthy dish by incorporating essential elements like fibre, vitamins, protein, and carbs. There’s also a mid-challenge twist awaiting them as they will need to incorporate two more ingredients in their dishes – moringa leaves and flaxseeds.

Talking about the challenge, Pooja said: “Bringing the ‘Health Challenge’ to the ‘MasterChef India’ kitchen has been incredibly rewarding. It was exciting to witness the passion these home cooks exhibited while balancing the nutritional aspects of their creations. The challenge was a reminder that great cooking goes beyond taste – it is about nourishing the body as well.”

Amidst the challenge, contestant Kriti Dhiman finds herself in a tricky situation as incorporating dark chocolate proves to be a daunting task for her.

Sharing her experience, Kriti said: “Working with dark chocolate was definitely a challenge. Its intense flavour required a delicate balance to ensure it complemented the overall dish. This challenge has taught me the importance of experimenting with diverse ingredients to create a balanced blend of flavours.”

‘MasterChef India’ on Sony LIV. (IANS)

A Fabulous Full House Diwali Celebration

The Diwali party presented by Pratibha Jairath and Ashok Potdar was held at Ashyana Banquets and was once again a full house event and a melodious celebration of joy and happiness. Beautifully decorated Ashyana ceilings and jazzy, vibrant colors of the outfits of the audience brought life to a quiet and dreary fall evening.

A Fabulous Full House Diwali Celebration 3
Picture: Asian Media USA

The lamp lighting ceremony included the Guests of Honor and sponsors including Anil and Sweety Loomba, Sunil and Rita Shah, Bhupinder & Anita Beri, Pinky & Dinesh Thakkar, Mayur Ganger and partner Ashok Potdar. Mrs. Rita Sunil Shah recited Shree Sidhivinay prayers beautifully during Lamp lighting. Mr. Sunil Shah presented Diwali Greetings to all.

Ms Jairath reminded the audience of the significance of Diwali such as victory of knowledge over ignorance, which turned into her recent initiative, a Not-for-Profit organization ‘Vidya Jyoti’s. She mentioned the accomplishment of being able to help 1015 students thus far. Mr.  Mayur Ganger, who had opened his heart as a great sponsor was presented by Mr. Anil Loomba and Dr. Bhupinder and Anita Beri.

A Fabulous Full House Diwali Celebration 2
Picture: Asian Media USA

The singing trio Pratibha Jairath, Raju Bankapur, Pradeep Sood kept the audience on their dancing feet throughout the celebration. The program started with melodious songs when Pratibha presented songs by legendary singers Lata Ji, Asha Ji, Geeta Dutt, Vani Jairam, each singer with a different special touch. It was a variety of songs, including Bole Re papihara type semi classical numbers. It was pin drop silence throughout the listening numbers and as always, her songs pulse with feelings. With her dance numbers, folks came to the dance floor as usual.  The next surge of excitement was from multi-talented singer Raju Bankapur.  Once again, well known singer, Pardeep Sood had a dramatic entrance once again and his Punjabi medley that people always love brought even more people to the dance floor.

There were few duet performances of popular songs. Mrs. Rita Shah and Hitesh Master performed a beautiful Duet which received a lot of applause too. Pinky Thakkar and Pardeep sood joined Pratibha in a fast dance number and the dance floor was all full.

The beautiful Bharatnatyam dance performances by Jenish Balsara got big applause from the audience. Raju Bankapur’s flute transported the audience to the world of pure joy and ecstasy.

Orchestra Sa Re Ga Ma with Hitesh Master Nayak, Richard Christian, Bobby and sound engineer/DJ Monachan enthralled the attendees.

Pratibha doesn’t forget to thank her friends ever who come out to help her including Anita Beri, Sarita Sood, Asha Mehta, Sushma Srivastav Sushma Gupta, her co-organizer Ashok Potdar, Neha Potdar and Vandana Bankapur who also did beautiful decoration besides front desk help.

Ms Jairath has strong ties with the community, because she maintains ‘Main aasman nahin chhuma chahti, bas logon ke dilon ko chhoo lonn bas yahi tamanna hai’.  Her attention to detail and relationships is what makes her parties successful and that is why she is ione of the most sought-after entertainers and artists of Chicago.

Senior Friendship Group In Chicago Hosts Dazzling Diwali Celebration

The Senior Friendship Group Chicago marked the joyous occasion of Diwali with a vibrant celebration on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at Golf Maine Park District, 8800 W Kathy Ln, Niles, IL . The festivities, which spanned from 9 am to 4 pm, brought together members and guests for a day filled with cultural delights.

The event commenced with a delightful breakfast featuring an array of Diwali delicacies, including Ghooghra, Cholafli Mathiya Farsi, Puri Chawanan, tea, and coffee. The beautifully adorned venue, embellished with exquisite depictions of Ganapatidada and Lakshmi Mata, was a testament to the meticulous efforts of Meghna D Vora, who orchestrated the enchanting decor.

Senior Friendship Group In Chicago Hosts Dazzling Diwali Celebration 3
Picture: Asian Media USA

President Harshadbhai Parekh extended heartfelt Diwali and New Year wishes to all attendees, outlining the day’s program. A collective Aarti of Ganapati Dada and Lakshmi Mata, performed by both members and guests, set a spiritual tone. Smita Parekh presented prayers of Sarva Dharma and Mayurashtakam, adding a divine touch to the celebration.

In a special segment, November birthdays were celebrated, including the festivities for Sunilbhai Shah. The entertainment quotient soared as Jeetendraji, Amitbhai, Pratibhaji, and Ritaben Shah showcased their musical talents, creating a jubilant atmosphere that had everyone dancing.

The highlight of the event was the felicitation of President Harshadbhai Parekh and other dedicated members by Pinkiben Dineshbhai Thakkar and Mukeshbhai Mehta. Bouquets and shals were presented as tokens of appreciation for their significant contributions.

Senior Friendship Group In Chicago Hosts Dazzling Diwali Celebration 2
Picture: Asian Media USA

“On this Diwali and New Year celebration, I want to express my love and affection for my caring family and friends. I want to tell my husband Dinesh Thakkar how fortunate I am to have him in my life as my best friend and a wonderful life partner. I want to thank him for the love and support, and I look forward to celebrating our bond together for years and years to come. Happy Diwali and New Year”! Said by Pinky Thakkar

Asian Media USA captured the magical moments of the day, diligently documenting individual and group pictures along with videos. The generosity of guests who contributed to the event was acknowledged, aligning with the spirit of giving during Diwali.

As a sweet conclusion to the celebration, the President, committee members and Guest distributed sweets to all attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared joy.

The Senior Friendship Group Chicago’s Diwali celebration was a resounding success, weaving together tradition, community, and festivity in a tapestry of unforgettable moments.

Hindus In The US Celebrate Ancient Sun Festival

(RNS) — An ancient ritual as old as Hinduism itself has traveled through time and space all the way to the waters of California’s Bay Area.

Starting at sundown on Friday (Nov. 17), hundreds of Hindus will wade into the waters of Quarry Lakes, a manmade lake in Fremont, California, to express reverence to nature, which they believe to be God manifest.

The festival of Chhath, which originated in the Indian state of Bihar, is devoted to Surya, the god of the sun. Worshippers thank Surya for providing light, warmth and life by fasting for three days and offering solitary prayers and fruits.

The ritual celebrating the rising and setting sun predates the Hindu gods that are more commonly known today, and stems from the earliest tradition of Hinduism, known as Vedic Hinduism.

But Chhath’s rituals, stemming from the earliest roots of Hinduism, known as Vedic Hinduism, which was prevalent in India more than 3,000 years ago, predate the Hindu gods we know today by some 1,400 years.

With a focus on meditation and gratitude, the Vedic tradition, named for the Vedas, its sacred texts, is still present in yoga’s Sun Salutation, or suryanamaskar.

“What I really value in Chhath is a connection to my roots and to an ancient tradition,” said Pushpita Prasad, a Bihari Californian who has participated in the festival in recent years. “It makes me feel very powerful to be a part of something that my ancestors might have been doing thousands of years ago.”

While it began with a single family’s observance in 2011, the Quarry Lakes Chhath has turned into an event that will draw 1,700 people this year — a number limited by the Quarry Lakes park authority’s cap on attendance. With more than 4,000 Hindus expressing interest, the event is sold out in minutes after word spreads that registration is open.

“People become very nostalgic about this,” said Sunil Singh, who founded the Quarry Lakes celebration with his wife, Shalini. “It is the holiest and most auspicious festival in Bihar. “My goal is to encourage the next generation, so they get engaged and they know what Chhath is.”

In India, families celebrating Chhath will travel to the holy waters of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, considered by many Hindus to be blessed with spiritual properties from their namesake goddesses. They will break their three-day fast with a particular type of wheat that they have grown in a way that ensures it is untouched by birds. They also use a special set of utensils to break the fast.

While details like these are not always the same here in the States, to the Singhs, having the community eagerly show up to perform an ancient practice aimed at being one with nature is enough.

“The puja is not only doing the formalities,” said Shalini, using the Sanskrit word for an act of worship. “The real prayer is how you connect with God. It’s better to do whatever little modifications you can do to keep the culture, and keep your heart clean and pure.”

Hindus In The US Celebrate Ancient Sun Festival

When the couple started the Quarry Lakes Chhath, their daughter was just 4 years old. This year she wrote about her family’s mark on the Bay Area in her college applications.

“Because it’s so big now, it’s not possible for just two people to handle it,” said Shalini. “We are very thankful for our community and our friends for engaging with us from end to end.”

When she came to the U.S. from Bihar, Shalini said, she never expected to celebrate Chhath in a bigger way than she did at home. “My prayers were heard,” she said.

For Manisha Pathak, founder of the Overseas Organization for Better Bihar, the festival creates an awareness about Bihari culture beyond its attendees. “Chhath is so relatable because it’s all about nature, and nature is for everyone,” said Pathak. “It is not just for Biharis.”

A Silicon Valley software engineer, Pathak began performing the ritual herself about 10 years ago. As the puja requires only meditation on the self, it doesn’t require a priest, a rarity in Hinduism.

As with many of the spiritual philosophies of Hinduism, Chhath is said to offer health benefits: The vitamin D from the sun radiates energy within the observer and can be passed along to anyone who is touched by the vrati, or person performing the puja.

“At the end of the puja and the sun rises, when I am gazing at the sun with water in my hands, that is a burst of energy that I absorb,” said Pathak. “It feels like I can move mountains.”

The tradition requires one member of a family to maintain a strict fast from sundown on Friday to sunrise on Sunday. At the end, everyone is fed Thekhua, a famous Bihari treat made of wheat, jaggery (made from cane sugar) and clarified butter, or ghee.

“Chhath puja is an experience of union with God,” said Pathak. “What is God according to Hindu belief? It is nature, the energy, the vibration. You experience that unity when you are standing in water just with your eyes closed. There is stillness there, and it is so amazing.”

Prasad, an advocate for Hindu Americans and board member of the Coalition of Hindus of North America, said the power of this ancient tradition lies in its ability to be celebrated just as fervently in modern times. As a lesser-known festival, she added, Chhath is emblematic of the sheer diversity of beliefs that are honored from every Indian state.

“This is a beautiful ecosystem that has nourished and cherished diversity for thousands of years. It has allowed massively different beliefs to coexist,” she said.

Pathak, who is a Hindustani classical vocalist, posts covers of traditional Chhath folk songs in the Bhojpuri dialect on YouTube for audiences of hundreds of thousands. Many of the songs are dedicated to Chatthi Maya, the goddess associated with Chhath, said to be the protector of children. “As a kid, I used to go to a river and see my whole family doing the puja together,” said Pathak. “And the same feeling comes up here. When I see other people doing it at the same time, those same memories come alive.”

The Great Wall Of India

Towards the westerly range of Aravalli Hills in the Rajsamand district of the Western State of India, Rajasthan is located the Great Wall of India, known as Kumbhalgarh (or Kumbhal Fort). Built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, it is now a World Heritage Site.

The history of this Mewar fortress

It is thought that in the sixth century, King Samprati, the great-grandson of Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, constructed the first fort. It was not extensively documented until the invasion of Kumbhalgarh by Allauddin Khliji in 1303 AD.

The Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha, the Rajput clan of Sisodia. After conquering the entire Godwar plain from the Chauhan Rajputs of Nadols in the late 14th century, Rana Khumba built the new fort on top of the local small fort. The new fort, Kumbhalgarh, was built by the king of Mewar, Rana Khumba, and mainly separated the two clans of Mewar and Marwar. The fort was mainly used as a refuge for the rulers of Mewar.

The Great Wall Of India (FB)
Picture: FB

The famous architect of the time, “Mandan,” was called in by the Rana of Mewar for this special task. Mewar, the kingdom of Rana Kumbha, covered vast swathes of both Rajasthan and the former Madhya Pradesh, extending from Ranthambore in Rajasthan to Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. Rana Kumbha is credited with building 32 of the province’s 84 forts, the greatest of which is Kumbhalgarh. Direct assaults were still impossible against the fort.

According to the documents, in 1576 Shahbaz Khan, between 1458 and 1467 Mahmud Khalji, in 1457 Ahmed Shah 1 of Gujarat, and in 1303 Allauddin Khalji, all attempted to invade the fort. All the attempts at invasion failed, and the fort also came to be known as the impregnable fort.

The inside of the palace is a perfect depiction of Rajputs in history. It is said that the two-story building features an amazing blue durbar hall. The men-only “Mardan” palace and the women-only “Sanana” palace are divided by a hallway. The “Sanana Palace is home to several stunning murals of crocodiles, camels, and elephants.

Geography of the Kumbhal Fort

The fort is built 3,600 feet above sea level on a hilltop over the Aravallli range. The fort is counted as the world’s second-longest wall, with a length of 36 km and a width of 15 m.The rampart is considered broad enough to walk eight horses side by side.

Tales of Kumbhal Fort

During the initial stage of the fort, Rana Khumba faced many obstacles, for which a sage named ‘Baid Baba’ advised the difficulty would be removed if a pure-hearted man came forward and sacrificed his life. Seeing that no one was willing to save the king, the sage himself came forward and gave his life with one request for a gateway to the fort for religious rituals. According to the sources, King Kumbha built a grand entrance named ‘HanumanPol’, which is believed to be built on the spot where the sage’s head fell after he was beheaded.

During 1457, when Gujarat’s Ahmed Shah 1 launched a vain attempt to capture the fort, there was local belief that the Banmata deity protected the Mewars from invasion. The temple was destroyed because of this.

Another story is that the enemy bought off a young florist. She had left flower petals to indicate the way along the hidden pathway. The girl was bricked alive into the exterior wall after the plot was thwarted. A fitting penalty that would have discouraged other betrayers! The wall appears to be the location of the woman’s execution because there is a little, white-painted outline of the woman there.

Things to see in Kumbhal Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort

It is said that the Kumbhalgarh fort existed for centuries. The fort is spread over an area of 36 km with extending walls. Approximately, there are about 360 Jain and Hindu temples within the fort. A few of them are Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple, Bada Mahal, Parshuram Temple, Mammadev Temple, Muchchal Mahavir Temple, and Vedi Temple. The gates around the fort are locally called “pol”. Entry to the inner bastions is possible through Arret Pol, Halla Pol, and Hanuman Pol from the southern directions. The purpose of the walls’ varying colours is to display light. The inside walls are whiter and more glossy. You will see Bhairav Pol, Chaugan Pol, Nimboo Pol, and Phagra Pol farther up; each has a distinct significance. Observe that as you ascend, they get smaller, and beyond a certain point, neither horses nor elephants can get through.

There is a light and sound show for 45 minutes every evening at 6.45 p.m.The ticket charge for the show is Rs 75.

Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple

This temple, which honours Lord Shiva, is home to a six-foot-tall stone Shivlinga. Legend has it that Rana Kumbha used to often worship the goddess in this temple. The king used to sit on the temple floor to say prayers since he was so tall.

The pious king was slain by his own son while praying to the Lord in the same temple.

Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds)

This two-story structure, known as the Mardana Mahal (for men) and the Zanana Mahal (for women), is perched atop Kumbhalgarh Fort. Pastel-coloured murals from the 19th century adorn the chambers.

The queens could witness court proceedings and other events in private because of Zanana Mahal’s stone mesh. The purpose of the rooms’ network of ducts and mesh was to draw in cold air and ventilate the interiors. The traditional method of creating “air conditioning”

The road trip, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sand Dunes

The road from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh takes you across the ‘Kathaar River’ and ‘Bageri Ka Naka’ dams, both renowned for their scenery. And the other one is ‘Hameri Pal,’ a lake known for its calm nature with fewer crowds. It is also known for the ‘Giant African Catfish.’

The Kumbhalgarh sanctuary is home to various wild animals like chinkara, leopard, sloth bear, antelope, jackal, sambhar, nilgai, and hyena. You can also spot various species of birds.

When you reach the summit of Kumbhalgarh Fort, you can see the stunning Aravali Hills for miles in all directions. In fine weather, you can even see the Marwar and the Thar desert dunes.

The giant lamp is used for light

According to legend, Maharana Kumbha would burn enormous lamps with 50 kg of “ghee” and 100 kg of cotton to keep farmers working in their fields at night. The lamps used to shine for miles because of how brilliant they were.

New York Governor Signs Legislation Making Diwali Public School Holiday

New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday signed a historic legislation making Diwali a school holiday in public schools.

The legislation requires that all public schools in the city be closed on the “15th day of the eighth month of the Indian calendar in each year, which is known as Diwali”.

“New York City is rich in different religions and cultures, and we’re taking an important step to recognize and celebrate this diversity in the school calendar,” Governor Hochul said in a press statement.

New York Governor Signs Legislation Making Diwali Public School Holiday“This legislation to designate Diwali as a New York City school holiday is an opportunity for our children to learn about and celebrate traditions from across the world,” she added.

The legislation was signed during a special reception at the Hindu Temple Society of North America in Flushing during Diwali celebrations.

“I believe that a celebration of light should not be commemorated in the dark. That’s why tonight, we took action to bring people together,” Hochul wrote on X.

The press statement from Hochul’s office said that the legislation “amends the education law to declare Diwali a holiday for New York City public schools”.

“Many people of the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist faiths in New York City and throughout the state observe the festival of Diwali and more than 1 billion people around the world celebrate this holiday,” the statement read.

The move came after the New York State legislature on June 9 passed a Bill to make Diwali a school holiday in the city with efforts from NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Indian-origin Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar.

“With the signing of my bill, we have lit an everlasting lamp in the hearts and minds of all New Yorkers… By signing my bill, we say to over 600,000 Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist New Yorkers, ‘We see you, we ecognize you, and Diwali is an American holiday,’” Rajkumar, the first Hindu American and first South Asian American woman elected to New York state office, said.

Rajkumar said that for over two decades, the South Asian community has lobbied for the Diwali holiday. Two earlier attempts to pass the legislation in 2021 and 2022 did not succeed.

“In this time of local and global racism and anger, Diwali’s message is critically important and needed. The Diwali celebration not only represents the rich cultural heritage of our diverse community, but also serves as a reminder of the values that bind us together,” State Senator Joseph Addabbo said, thanking Hochul.

According to city officials, more than two lakh New York residents celebrate Diwali which is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists.

Earlier this year, Pennsylvania became the first US state to officially ecognize Diwali as a public holiday.
(IANS)

Ayodhya Illuminates with Record-Breaking 22.23 Lakh Diyas in Deepotsav Celebration, Sets New Guinness World Record Ahead of Ram Temple Inauguration

Ayodhya, located in Uttar Pradesh, experienced a spectacular Deepotsav celebration on Saturday, adorning its ghats with hundreds of thousands of earthen lamps. On the eve of Diwali, the temple city set a new Guinness World Record by lighting 22.23 lakh diyas simultaneously across 51 ghats along the Saryu River.

This record-breaking tradition began with the onset of Deepotsav celebrations in 2017 under the governance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The inaugural year witnessed 51,000 diyas, and the numbers escalated to 4.10 lakh in 2019. The subsequent years marked a substantial increase, with over 6 lakh diyas in 2020 and more than 9 lakh in 2021. Notably, in 2022, the ghats of Ram ki Pairi were adorned with a remarkable 17 lakh diyas. However, the Guinness Book of World Records only considered those lamps that remained lit for at least five minutes, setting the record at 15,76,955.

Preceding the Deepotsav festivities, a procession featuring eighteen tableaux, themed around the Ramayana, Ramcharitmanas, and various societal issues, paraded through Ayodhya. Uttar Pradesh Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh, flagged off the procession at Udaya Square, navigating through different parts of the city before reaching Ram Katha Park.

These thematic tableaux addressed crucial topics such as children’s rights and basic education, women’s safety and welfare, self-reliance, protection of forests and the environment, and advancements in science and technology. Additionally, they showcased various government initiatives aimed at societal development.

The significance of this year’s Deepotsav celebrations is heightened by the ongoing construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The eagerly anticipated inauguration of the Ram Mandir is scheduled for January 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi slated to attend the historic event. The confluence of cultural festivities and the temple’s progress adds a distinct charm to this year’s Deepotsav in Ayodhya.

BJANA’s Diwali Celebrations Highlight Culture Of Two States

Activities that showcased the rich cultural diversity of Bihar and Jharkhand, and engaging exhibitions showing the states’ arts and crafts were part of the event

 The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) hosted its annual Diwali celebration at the Royal Albert Palace, New Jersey, USA. The event was attended by more than 600 community members from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware.

Mayor Charlie Carley of South Brunswick township in New Jersey graced the event as the chief guest and wished everyone on the occasion. Video messages from the Governor of Jharkhand C. P. Radhakrishnan, the Chief Minister of Jharkhand Hemant Soren, and the Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar conveying wishes to the entire Bihar and Jharkhand diaspora in the United States were also screened.

BJANA’s Diwali Celebrations Highlight Culture Of Two States 2On the occasion, BJANA presented awards to recognise the efforts of community members. Dr. Anil Kumar received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his service to the organization. Dr. Rupam Saran was awarded for her achievements and community service. Abhinav Atul from Bihar, India, was recognized for his contributions to the people of Bihar and Jharkhand.

Anurag Kumar, the president of BJANA, emphasized BJANA’s ongoing fundraising efforts and charitable activities in the USA, Bihar, and Jharkhand and expressed gratitude to the community members for their active participation and unwavering support.

Alok Kumar, the past president of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), took the stage to invite all community members to participate in bidding farewell to Consul General New York, Randhir Jaiswal, on November 20 and express their gratitude for his services to the Indian community.

The event featured cultural programs, including dance, live band, and singing by the children from the community and adults. Additionally, activities that showcased the rich cultural diversity of Bihar and Jharkhand, and engaging exhibitions showing the states’ arts and crafts along with delectable Indian cuisine were also part of the festivities.

India’s Gwalior Named As UNESCO Music City

UNESCO has included Gwalior as the city of Music under the Creative Cities Network (UCCN). 55 cities from all over the globe joined the UCCN. Gwalior was acknowledged for its strong commitment to harnessing culture and creativity as part of UNESCO’s development strategies, and displaying innovative practices in human-centered urban planning.

India’s Gwalior Named As UNESCO Music City (Instagram)
Picture: Instagram

The project was led by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board in cooperation with the Municipal Corporation of Gwalior, Gwalior Smart City Development Corporation Limited, Raja Mansingh Tomar Music & Arts University, music artists, and other stakeholders. The Network now includes 350 cities in over one hundred countries, representing seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music.

Since 2019, continuous efforts have been made including multiple stakeholder consultations and a dedicated feasibility study of the city to map the potential for UCCN membership followed by the drafting of the application. Gwalior serves as an exemplary example of living cultural heritage and it houses one of the biggest annual music festivals of India; The Tansen Sangeet Samaroh to celebrate the rich culture of Madhya Pradesh.

Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, MP Tourism Board Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS) said ‘Inclusion of Gwalior by UNESCO under the creative cities network is definitely a big shot in the arm which goes a long way to tell the whole world about the cultural richness of Madhya Pradesh. Gwalior being the city of Tansen, BaijuBawra, the birthplace of Dhrupad Music form and Gwalior Gharana, which are world known for musical practices and traditions which are alive even today, have been very persistently conserved and preserved and now on the occasion of Madhya Pradesh Foundation Day, it has been recognised by UNESCO by including Gwalior as a city of music.

I am sure the whole world will sit and take notice of the richness and depth of the cultural diversity, the cultural richness of Madhya Pradesh in general and Gwalior in particular. This will also go a long way in boosting international tourism in the city of Gwalior and also bringing them to showcase the best of the architectural and heritage assets.

It is a great opportunity for Madhya Pradesh and we are very thankful to UNESCO, the Minister of Culture, and the Government of India to the city of Gwalior and all the people who have ever, in any way associated with Gwalior. As a city of music, It is a massive achievement for everyone who is concerned with music and Gwalior.

Joint Director, Planning, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Prashant Singh Baghel highlighted ‘Through the designation to the UCCN, we envision the realisation of the city’s goals towards achieving overall sustainable development with music as the key driver. This includes the creation of new economic and artistic opportunities for the local youth; making the city an education hub for music, cultural infrastructure development, linking of the music sector with tourism, urban renewal, and mobility and enhancing access to arts and culture.’ (IANS)

Diverse Cultures Unite Under the Glow of Lights At Aurora Diwali Celebration

Diwali, the esteemed “Festival of Lights” is a time honored in celebration of hope, light, and unity for millions of people of Indian origin around the world. In recent years, the City of Aurora in Illinois has become home to a remarkable Diwali celebration drawing a few thousand visitors, thanks to the Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board (IACOAB).

This annual event, which was organized at Waubonsie Valley High School, Aurora, IL on October 28, 2023, has grown in significance, transcending cultural boundaries and uniting the community in a radiant display of togetherness. Supported wholeheartedly by Mayor Richard Irvin office of the City of Aurora and local volunteers, this event has reached new heights. The IACOAB Board members commenced the festivities with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a symbol of hope and new beginnings. Sunil Patel, the Chairman of the Board, could not conceal his excitement at the remarkable turnout. He credited the event's success to the unwavering support of his board members, volunteers, and the Mayor office and expressed his gratitude to Alderwoman Sweta Baid for helping the team with the amazing display of Rangoli, a traditional Indian art form made with sand.

Diverse Cultures Unite Under the Glow of Lights At Aurora Diwali Celebration
Picture: Asian Media USA

Mayor Richard Irvin has consistently been a great supporter of the board and brought an electrifying energy to the crowd with his inspiring speech. The mayor officially proclaimed Diwali, a festival of lights, as a day of tolerance, compassion, and the triumph of good over evil. This proclamation resonates with the American and Aurora Spirit, which also celebrates these values.

The highlight of the event was the outstanding cultural program, which brought together Indian dancers and performers for a night of sensational entertainment. While the majority of the audience was of Indian descent, the event warmly welcomed people from all backgrounds who appreciated the vibrant Bollywood dances and delicious Indian food that was served.

The City of Aurora  Diwali celebration is a community event that has brought together local participants to learn about the services provided by small businesses and local non-profit organizations. The participation of non-profit organizations such as Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USAh, ISKON, Indian Nurses Education and Welfare Fund and Adhyatmik Vishwavidyalaya has helped to raise awareness of Indian culture and the community’s efforts to preserve their traditions and culture.

“This year, we saw great involvement from different vendors who offered unique merchandise not readily available in local shops, along with a wide array of delectable food options” Board members Nitin Fuldore and Ghosia Wajid.

Vice Chair Nadia Kanhai expressed her sincere gratitude to the local participants, stating that the event would not have been a success without their presence. She also extended an invitation to sponsors and merchants to join the event again next year. As the radiant lights of Diwali continue to shine brightly in Aurora, they remind us of the enduring power of community and the timeless significance of this beautiful festival. The future of the Diwali celebration in Aurora looks even brighter, casting a warm and welcoming glow over all who attend.

Abir Karmakar: Nightjar Opens at Aicon Gallery

Curated by Ambika Trasi and featuring Abir Karmakar’s most recent oil paintings of his city of residence, Baroda, in Gujrat, India is opening at the famous Aicon Gallery7 in New York City on Thursday, November 2, 6-8pm with an artist talk from 7:30-pm

Born in Siliguri in West Bengal, the works in Nightjar consider the artist’s relationship to the Baroda as a resident whose roots are removed from the local culture and who does not speak the
regional language or have access to a community. At a time when right wing politics and Hindu nationalism have taken hold in India, there is a sense of mounting insularity throughout the nation, as well as a distrust and social alienation of migrants and minority residents.

Karmakar’s eye is keen and observant, enabled by his invisibility and illegible presence. His paintings consider the psychogeography of the city: the social and psychological effects of urban architecture on the individual and community. His use of hyperreal and trompe l'oeil aesthetics give his works a filmic quality that push the boundaries of painting and blur reality and fiction. Through his style, the artist creates a simulacrum of the city: one that is stark and eerily absent of people– a Baroda that feels closer to his own (and to the outsider’s, migrant’s, or other’s) lived experience of it.

Yet throughout Karmakar’s paintings, nature transgresses and declares itself an uncontainable force that resists the dense concrete of Baroda. Unruly shrubs and grasses are seen growing outside of the homes and over the walls and gates in his Dead Hours series. The artist’s skies, meanwhile, appear pastoral and boundless. In Towards Oblivion, Karmakar removes any specific markers of location or time to disorient the viewer and create a transcendental experience. The sky acts as a sublime space that provides respite from the solid, angular structures of the built environment and from earthly notions of property and borders. In painting the piece, Karmakar blends into his environment like a nightjar or a transparent eyeball, underlining his (and everyone’s) fundamental right to belong.

An accompanying exhibition catalog for Abir Karmakar: Nightjar is available for purchase through the gallery. The publication features an essay by curator Ambika Trasi and includes illustrations of all 12 of Karmakar’s paintings from the exhibition. Nightjar will be on view from November 2 through December 2, 2023.  For more information, please [email protected]

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Hosts Diwali At Gracie Mansion & Across New York City Boroughs

New York City Mayor Eric Adams said on Tuesday, October 17th that Diwali is a reminder for all to push away darkness and usher in light. He further urged people to embrace the spirit of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita and Mahatma Gandhi in order to become better humans. Adams emphasized the significance of Diwali as a symbol of dispelling darkness and welcoming light during the annual Diwali celebration held at his New York residence, Gracie Mansion. The celebration was the first of others palnned as part of the inaugural 5 Borough Diwali Tour hosted by Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar and the Mayor in NYC.

In his speech at the annual event, which was attended by many influential members of the Indian-American and South Asian communities, as well as representatives from other diasporas and the government, Adams said that Diwali is about more than just lighting candles or oil lamps; it is about "lighting up our lives."

“There is so much darkness that we are seeing every day. So if we truly believe in the life of Ramayana, if we truly believe in the life of Sita, if we truly believe in the life of Gandhi, then we must continue Gandhi’s steps. We cannot only be worshippers; we must be practitioners,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the annual Diwali celebration hosted at his New York residence, Gracie Mansion. He further requested everyone to support the effort to eradicate the darkness
consuming the world and causing the deaths of innocent people.

“Diwali is more than just a holiday. It is a reminder to all of us that we must push away the darkness wherever we see it and bring light. That is what the Festival of Lights is about,” Adams said. This annual celebration was attended by hundreds of prominent members of the Indian- American and South Asian community as well as diaspora from other nationalities and government officials. Adams said Diwali is more than just lighting a candle; it is about “lighting up our lives”.

“There is so much darkness that we are seeing every day. So if we truly believe in the life of Ramayana, if we truly believe in the life of Sita, if we truly believe in the life of Gandhi, then we must continue Gandhi’s steps. We cannot only be worshippers; we must be practitioners,” he said.

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, who was instrumental in establishing Diwali as a school holiday in New York City, expressed that the Indian-American community has reached a level of influence and strength like never before. “We are unstoppable, and we have arrived at the table of power in this state,” she said.

She further emphasized that, especially given the turmoil in various parts of the world and the rising intolerance and prejudice against different communities, the Indian-American community has a unique opportunity to lead the way toward peace and harmony.

Mayo Adams announced he will be making several stops in his Diwali ‘tour’ visiting all the five boroughs of New York City. “This holiday was so important to us. I look forward to doing this five-borough tour to let everyone know that with the tour and celebration we are going to push away the darkness and bring in a new light,” the Mayor declared. Next day, the Mayor tweeted out a message and pictures from the Gracie Mansion event, saying, “I’m so proud to stand with our Hindu community and last night we welcomed them to the People’s House for a special
#Diwali celebration.”

The Mayor thanked all those involved with the push to make Diwali a public school holiday, starting with Rajkumar.  “I want to really thank our Assemblywoman who has been a real partner
in moving this important holiday to the forefront. I remember last year hearing so many people who wanted this holiday as we moved around the city. And she took that energy to Albany and
ensured that we will live up to the commitment and promise of this important holiday,” the Mayor said. “But I also want to thank my partners who are here in government as well.

He dwelt on the story of Ramayana, and on his visit to India, and lauded the role also played by Sita.  “So, we often hear about the greatness of Ram and what Ram represented. He was the power and the force against evil, and he pushed to ensure to rid the entire globe of darkness,” he said, adding, “But there was another significant part of the story of Ramayana. It was Sita. Sita was his other half. She was a woman of strength and integrity. She was willing to sacrifice her life to ensure that Ram was able to accomplish the task.”

The Mayor used that analogy to emphasize the need to recognize Sita’s role. “… as we move forward in a particularly male dominated society, let’s not forget, we will never be able to defeat
darkness if we do not acknowledge all the Sitas that are in the universe fighting on behalf and side by side with us,” he said.

He recalled his visit many years ago to India where, “I’ll never forget going to the home of Mahatma Gandhi and seeing his last steps. They were permanently in the sidewalk in the pavement. And it’s symbolic that the bullet took his life, but it’s up to us to continue the journey. His physical transformation through that murder should not stop the spiritual journey.”

Following the example of Ram, Sita and Gandhi, the Mayor said, “We cannot only be worshippers, we must be practitioners. And so as we leave today from under this tent of Gracie Mansion, let’s leave with the energy of taking away the darkness that we are seeing all across our globe and the loss of innocent lives. We cannot continue to watch this engulf our future and engulf humanity.”

“Let’s be better human beings, and let’s live in the spirit of Diwali. Let’s live in the spirit of Gandhi. Let’s live in the spirit of Sita. Let’s live in the spirit of Ram. And then we will live up to the expectations of what this holiday really means,” said the Mayor.

The Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion, launching the colorful event which included a Hindu prayer, lamp lighting and in the presence of an enthusiastic crowd that included one of the main
drivers behind making Diwali a public school holiday starting in 2024, NY State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar.

Assemblyman Grace Lee, Councilperson Brewer, a longtime friend, former borough president. Councilman (Shekar) Krishnan, Councilmember Lee, and all of our state and assembly lawmakers who assisted, particularly Assemblyman and Speaker Carl Heastie and Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins for getting this bill through and making this holiday happen,” Mayor Adams added.

Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, Trade, Investment and Innovation, Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, praised the role played by Rajkumar, describing her as “a proud Hindu American” and lauding her efforts to bring Diwali mainstream. He also praised the Mayor for fulfilling the promise he made during his election campaign to make Diwali a holiday.

Deputy Commissioner Chauhan said this year’s Gracie Mansion celebration of Diwali included many who had not been there in past years. “More than 80 organizations participate in this Diwali, Mayor,” he said, noting that he followed up on the Mayor’s directive to “create the new list, people who didn’t visit Gracie Mansion City Hall.”

Assemblywoman Rajkumar recalled how her election made history making her the first Indian woman ever elected to a New York State office, and the first Hindu ever elected to a New York
State office. She called out to Indian origin attendees at the event including Hindus from the diaspora, like the Caribbean, apart from India.

“Today I am proud to stand before the whole world and say that from now on and forever Diwali will be a school holiday in New York City. And today our government says to over 600,000 Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains, we see you, we recognize you, we hear you — and Diwali is an American holiday,” Rajkumar said.

She spoke about how it was the strength of the community which made the Diwali legislation a reality, and the Mayor’s support for the cause. She described the five-borough tour a historic first, adding, “We’re starting here in Gracie Mansion. We’re going to go to Times Square to celebrate Diwali. And then we’re going to go to every corner of this city and every borough; and together, we will bring light and prosperity to every corner of this city.”

Pandit Ravi Sivacharya from the Ganesh temple in Flushing, Queens, offered prayers and led the diya lighting ceremony.  Dr. Vasundhara Kalasapudi, Indo-American Arts Council chairman Dr.
Nirmal Mattoo, Dr. Hari Shukla, Musician Ustad Kamal Sabri, and Grammy nominee Chandrika Tandon, were presented citations by the Mayor’s office at the event in recognition of their various achievements and service to the community.

After the Mayor’s reception at Gracie Mansion, the celebrations will continue with events in various locations, including Times Square on October 28, Vishnu Mandir on November 4, ISKCON New York City – Hare Krishna Center on November 12, Staten Island Hindu Temple on the same day, and the final event at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir on November 13.

Leela Dance Collective Announces $1 Million Endowment Fund

Leela Dance Collective, the Los Angeles-based internationally-touring kathak dance company that combines classical dance from North India with contemporary influences, announces today that it has reached its initial $1 million goal for The Leela Foundation. This endowment fund is the only one of its kind, designed to support the future of kathak dance and Hindustani classical music in the United States.

Founded in 2016, Leela Dance Collective is a critically-acclaimed dance company that advances kathak, classical dance from North India. Through traditional works and cross-genre collaborations, Leela brings the richness and depth of Indian classical dance to contemporary audiences. Leela Dance Collective is led by the artistic direction of renowned kathak artists Rukhmani Mehta (previously Rina Mehta), Seibi Lee, and Rachna Nivas, and engages some of today’s leading dancers and musicians, as well as collaborative artists of other genres.

Leela Dance Collective has created groundbreaking productions including SPEAK, Son of the Wind, ReSound, and more. Past highlights include appearances at Ford Theaters, The Broad Stage, Kimmel Center, the Green Music Center, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, National Center for the Performing Arts in Bombay, Maui Arts & Cultural Center, and NC State LIVE.

Leela also trains the next generation of kathak artists, offering classes, training, and intensives through studios in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver and New York, plus online courses.  In 2016, Leela launched a campaign to establish The Leela Foundation, the first United  States- based endowment for North Indian artistic and cultural heritage. The Leela Foundation aims to build the financial infrastructure necessary for kathak dance and Hindustani classical music to thrive for generations to come, through direct funding for artists in the form of salary support, fellowships, awards, and artist residencies.

“The leaders of Leela Dance Collective are dedicated to the future of our art form: to supporting our fellow professional dancers and musicians, to training the next generation of kathak artists,
and to artistic excellence with our field,” comments Leela Dance Collective Co-Artistic Director Rukhmani Mehta. “Currently, it is virtually impossible for kathak dancers and classical
Indian musicians to pursue a full-time career in their chosen field. This lack of infrastructure is directly tied to the legacy of colonialism, particularly the British dismantling of Indian artistic
and cultural traditions. We still feel the effects of these historical events more than a century later.”

In 2020, The Leela Foundation granted inaugural Artist Awards, providing direct support to some of today’s leading musicians.These first Artist Awards were presented to artists Jayanta
Banerjee, sitarist, musician and composer; Ben Kunin, sarod artist and senior disciple of the maestro, Ud. Ali Akbar Khan; Debashis Sarkar (posthumously), vocalist and musician; and Satyaprakash Mishra, tabla percussionist. In 2021 the fund supported three kathak dance artists: Gretchen Hayden, Joanna DeSouza, and Madhuri Devi Singh.

In 2022, The Leela Foundation supported bansuri artist Jay Gandhi (Hindustani flute). “A $1 million endowment is modest in the world of philanthropy and Western fine arts, but huge for
our field of Kathak and Hindustani classical music,” continued Mehta. “So many incredibly talented and acclaimed classical Indian dance and music artists struggle to support their artistry and lives financially. This endowment fund aims to provide artists with the support they need to thrive and advance these art forms. Without such support, these artists and artistic traditions are at risk. I know this is just the beginning for what our community can build together, to secure and grow the future of our art form. We are so incredibly grateful to the individuals and funders who have helped us reach this initial goal.”

“Leela Dance Collective is one of the very few professional touring companies elevating  classical Indian dance and music on the world stage,” commented Shirish Dayal, Executive Vice President of the Tarsadia Foundation. “We believe in their mission to advance and sustain cultural traditions and strengthen infrastructure for kathak dance and Hindustani classical music, and are proud to provide lead support for The Leela Foundation.”
Moving forward, each year 4% of the endowment’s market value will be distributed. The Leela Foundation aims to grow the fund annually through investment income, new donations, and/or bequests.

Endowment Patrons
Lead contributors to the Leela Dance Collective endowment fund include:
Tarsadia Foundation

Shruti Mahajan & Kashyap Deorah
Ushakant & Irma Thakkar
Dinesh & Shaila Mehta
Yogesh & Bina Nivas
Amar & Vinita Singh
Leah & Gary Schoolnik
Prabhu & Poonam Goel
For a list of Leela Dance Collective Board of Directors, click here.
About Kathak Dance & Hindustani Classical Music

Kathak dance and Hindustani classical music are the primary classical dance and music traditions of North India.The forms are inextricably linked. Both traditions have evolved side by side over several centuries. Kathak dance is traditionally performed to a Hindustani music trio or quartet. Exchange and improvisation between dancers and musicians are an integral part of
the performance; historically these forms were considered as one whole system of expression vs separate forms.

Hindustani classical music was born from a cultural synthesis of several musical streams: the vedic chant tradition dating back to approximately one millennium B.C.E., the equally ancient Persian tradition of Musiqi-e assil, and also folk traditions prevalent in the region. Hindustani music is an oral tradition and musical compositions are transmitted directly from teacher to student. Hindustani music has a rich vocal tradition and the major vocal forms associated with Hindustani classical music are dhrupad, khayal, and thumri. The form has also developed a  rich instrumental tradition including sitar, sarod, sarangi, bansuri, harmonium, tabla, pakhawaj and more.

Kathak is one of India’s eight classical dance forms and is said to have originated in Northern India around 400 BCE. The word kathak comes from the Sanskrit word katha, meaning story and a Kathak dancer is referred to as kathaka, the one who tells a story. Modern day Kathak is characterized by percussive footwork, swift pirouettes, dynamic movement, crisp stances, and expressive storytelling. Kathak dancers wear ghungroos, or ankle bells, that add musicality and ornamentation to their footwork and movements. Kathak is traditionally a solo art form that is performed along with live Indian classical music in an intimate setting. When studied, practiced and performed in its fullest capacity, kathak is ultimately a spiritual path to oneself, the world, and the divine.

About the Co-Artistic Directors of Leela Dance Collective

Rukhmani Mehta (previously Rina Mehta) brings a singular voice and vision to the art form of Kathak, classical dance of North India. She is a senior disciple of the legendary Kathak master, Pt. Chitresh Das, and was a principal dancer in his company, the Chitresh Das Dance Company, for over a decade. As Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of Leela Dance Collective, Mehta has created numerous original works that bring Kathak dance to contemporary audiences. These works include SPEAK, a Kathak-tap collaboration; Son of the Wind, a dance drama based on India’s epic, the Ramayana; and Encounters with Beauty, a collaboration between Kathak and contemporary chamber music.

She has performed at prestigious venues across the United States and India such as NC State Live, The Broad Stage, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Green Music Center, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, National Centre for Performing Arts Mumbai, and more. Her artistic works have been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, New Music USA, California Arts Council, Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation, Zellerbach Family Foundation, and more. She has received the ACTA Apprenticeship Grant and has been twice nominated for an Isadora Duncan
Dance Award. Mehta is also Artistic Director of Leela Youth Dance Company, a pre-professional performing group that empowers young women to develop their voices and be artists and leaders. The Leela Youth Dance Company has been featured at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Philadelphia Youth Festival, and LA County’s Annual Televised Holiday Celebration.

Seibi Lee is a consummate kathak artist known for her powerful mastery, refined musicality,and dramatic brilliance in character portrayal. A distinguished disciple of Pandit Chitresh Das,she is one of the founders of Leela Dance Collective. Seibi has toured worldwide earning accolades and deep respect for her artistry, including an Isadora Duncan Dance Special Award and  two subsequent nominations. As principal dancer of the Chitresh Das Dance Company,Seibi evolved a singular perspective and style through the development of virtuosic character roles in several of Das’s critically acclaimed works, including the dual roles of the tormented demon Marich and beloved tribal prince Hanuman in Sita Haran. Her outstanding portrayal of Hanuman became the inspiration for the central character and creation of Leela’s Son of the Wind – the full-length dance drama bringing to life Hanuman’s rarely told heroic and valorous adventures from the epic Ramayana.

Rachna Nivas is a distinguished torchbearer of legendary master Pandit Chitresh Das’s  treasured lineage. She is a founding artist of the Leela Dance Collective, producing powerful works through the collective creativity of trailblazers in kathak. Rachna is co-creator of SPEAK, a kathak-tap collaboration, Son of the Wind, a traditional dance-drama, and Meera, a solo work based on one of India's greatest female poet-saints. Rachna's works have been featured on main stages across the U.S. including The Broad Stage, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Maui Arts and Cultural Center, Kimmel Cultural Campus, and more. Her works have been funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, New Music USA, California Arts Council and Zellerbach Family Foundation. Prior to her work with Leela Dance Collective, Rachna was principal dancer with the Chitresh Das Dance Company, performing world-wide in the company's productions and receiving two nominations for an Isadora Duncan Dance Award.

Funding Credits 
Leela Dance Collective is supported by the California Arts Council, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, National Endowment for the Arts, and New Music USA.

Brathukamma Festival Celebrated At The Dayton Hindu Temple In Ohio

Over 600 people from across the state of Ohio, colorfully dressed in traditonal Indian attire came together to celebrate and be part of the Brathukamma Festival celebrations, Organized by Premalatha Kathula and the Board of Hindu Community Organization in Dayton. OH at the Dayton Temple in Dayton, Ohio on Saturday, October 21st, 2023. Women and children, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, participated in group dances like the Bathukamma dance, adding to the festive atmosphere.

“The presence of hundereds of participants in this beautiful floral festival was a wonderful experience,” said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, President-Elect of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin. “The coming together of the people of Indian origin from the North, South, East and West to celebrate the culture and festivities was an amazing and memorable experience,” he added.

The popular Dayton Hindu Temple, which was constructed in 1978, hosts Navaratri celebrations every year throughout this festive season, with every day of the colorful festive season is hosted by one particular community that takes the lead and organizes and celebrates the festival.

The festivities organized on October 21 st , 2023 by the Telugu community in the region, celebrated the Bathukamma, a vibrant and culturally rich festival in the Telangana state. This nine-day celebration steeped in tradition and history, was a joyous occasion that brings together communities to worship and revel in the beauty of nature.

Bathukamma Festival is a vibrant and culturally significant celebration in the Indian state of Telangana and some parts of Andhra Pradesh. The festival typically lasts for nine days and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur. The Saddula Bathukamma is celebrated on the 9th day which is on the 22nd of October, Sunday.

Bathukamma is a Telugu word, “Bathuku”which means “life” or “alive.” It signifies vitality and existence. “Amma” is a term used in Telugu and many other Indian languages to refer to “mother” or a revered female figure. Bathukamma refers to “Mother Goddess” or “Life-Giver Goddess.” It symbolizes the worship of a female deity, often representing nature, fertility, and the source of life itself. The Bathukamma festival 2023 celebrates the goddess’s blessings and the vitality she brings to the land, especially during the harvest season.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 began with the gathering of seasonal flowers and leaves from fields, gardens, and wild areas. Women and girls come together to create a colorful and intricate floral arrangement called “Bathukamma.” This arrangement is the centerpiece of the festival.

Each of the nine days of the Bathukamma festival 2023 has a specific name and ritual associated with it. Devotees perform various rituals, including prayers, songs, and dances around the Bathukamma. The rituals are dedicated to the goddess Gauri, who represents life and nature.Telangana festival Bathukamma is not just about flowers and rituals; it’s a cultural extravaganza.

Throughout the Bathukamma festival 2023, there were performances of traditional Telugu folk songs and dances.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 is also a time to savor traditional Telugu cuisine. Special dishes are prepared and offered to the goddess as Naivedyam (food offerings). These dishes include sweets like bobbatlu and savory items like atlu (dosas). Bathukamma fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Women of all ages come together to create Bathukammas, sing songs, dance, and pray. It’s a time for families and friends to unite, reinforcing social bonds. Bathukamma promotes environmental consciousness. The use of seasonal flowers and organic materials in the floral arrangement is not only visually stunning but also eco-friendly. After the Bathukamma festival 2023, the flowers are traditionally immersed in water bodies, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Bathukamma has gained popularity as a tourist attraction. People from different parts of India and around the world visit Telangana to witness the grandeur of the celebrations and experience the unique culture of the region.

The Bathukamma Festival 2023 celebrates womanhood and empowers women to take the lead in cultural and religious activities. Women play a central role in the creation and worship of Bathukamma. The Bathukamma 2023 End date was on 22nd October 2023, which was the grand ending of the Bathukamma Festival 2023, known as Saddula Bathukamma or Pedda Bathukamma. On this day, the Bathukammas are immersed in local water bodies, symbolizing the goddess’s return to nature.

Bathukamma has ancient origins, dating back to the rule of the Chola Dynasty in the 3rd century CE. It was traditionally celebrated by women as a prayer for a good harvest and the well-being of
their families.

On the last day Ashwayuja Ashtami (Durga Ashtami) the grand culmination, Saddula Bathukamma or Pedda Bathukamma, is celebrated on the ninth day with a larger floral arrangement. It is the most significant and colorful part of the Bathukamma festival 2023, symbolizing the goddess’s return to nature.

Five types of rice and one sweet dish: Curd Rice, Lemon Rice, Tamarind Rice, Tamarind Rice with Coconut Powder, Tamarind Rice with Sesame Seed Powder and Malleda (Balls made with
chapati and sugar). These offerings are common, but there may be regional variations in the types of foods offered during the Bathukamma Festival 2023.

Regardless, these nine days are a time of cultural richness and spiritual devotion, celebrating the goddess and the harvest season. The Bathukamma Festival 2023 in Telangana is a spectacular
celebration of culture, nature, and community. It is a testament to the rich heritage and traditions of the region and serves as a beautiful expression of gratitude to the goddess for her blessings.

Largest Modern Hindu Temple Inaugurated In New Jersey, Built By 12,500 Volunteers

The largest Hindu temple in the United States is set to open its doors in New Jersey this Sunday. Located in Robbinsville, the 183-acre BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, named after its founding Hindu spiritual organization, rivals major Hindu temples in India.

Yogi Trivedi, a temple volunteer and a scholar of religion at Columbia University, marveled at the temple’s existence, saying, “I wake up every morning and scratch my eyes thinking, ‘Am I still in central New Jersey?’ It’s like being transported to another world, specifically to India.”

The temple is scheduled for official inauguration on October 8, with public access commencing on October 18. For Indian Americans and Hindu Americans, this represents a significant milestone. Trivedi noted, “This is the American Dream. The sacred geography of India and beyond is here in this one place, and you can experience, witness, and admire it all here in New Jersey. I anticipate, as a scholar of religion, that this will become a popular place of pilgrimage for Hindus from across the world.”

Construction of the temple involved 12,500 volunteers from around the world and has been in progress since 2011. However, it gained significant attention a decade later when a group of immigrant laborers filed a lawsuit against the global organization Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), which operates temples worldwide. The lawsuit alleged “shocking” conditions, including forced labor, long work hours, inhospitable living conditions, and caste discrimination.
The initial complaint stated, “For these long and difficult hours of work, the workers were paid an astonishing $450 per month, and even less when Defendants took illegal deductions. Their hourly pay rate came to approximately $1.20 per hour.”

BAPS, however, made a distinction between employment and religious volunteer service, known as seva. A spokesperson for BAPS, Ronak Patel, explained, “The artisans who helped to build our mandir came to the U.S. as volunteers, not as employees. We took care of the artisans’ needs in the U.S., including travel, lodging, food, medical care, and internet and prepaid phone cards so they could stay in touch with their families in India. BAPS India also supported the artisans’ families in India, so they did not suffer financial hardship as a result of the artisans’ seva in the U.S.”

Many of the laborers who participated in the temple’s construction arrived in New Jersey from India on religious visas and belonged to the Dalit community, historically marginalized groups in South Asia’s caste system. The lawsuit claimed that temple leadership enforced the caste hierarchy at work.
The lawsuit has been put on hold, with 12 of the original 21 plaintiffs moving to dismiss their claims. BAPS Akshardham spokespeople have assured that the temple will be a place for people of all creeds and castes to gather in community.

The temple’s walls feature carvings of historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln, emphasizing inclusivity. Trivedi commented, “When you come to the mandir, you will see people of all genders, all castes, and social backgrounds living, eating, praying, loving, and serving together.”
However, activists argue that the allegations still raise questions about the line between religious service and work exploitation, which particularly affects vulnerable Dalit communities.

Sunita Viswanath, a civil rights activist and co-founder of the civil rights group Hindus for Human Rights, expressed her concerns, saying, “A place of worship, a temple, is such an important space, especially for an immigrant community who’s making a home in a new country. I would want anybody who goes to the temple to really ask themselves, really do some soul searching, about going to a temple where there are such serious allegations of labor and human rights violations.”

The construction of the temple was no small feat, involving the placement of 2 million cubic feet of stone in Robbinsville Township. The temple is a cultural blend, featuring materials sourced from around the world and nods to American history.

The outside of the temple was built with non-traditional Bulgarian limestone to withstand New Jersey’s cold winters. The interior includes stone from various countries, including Greece, Italy, and India. A traditional Indian stepwell contains waters from 300 bodies in India and all 50 U.S. states. Notably, women played key roles in running the project, a rarity in temple construction.

Trivedi sees the temple’s design as representative of the diverse community that will gather there, with inclusivity reflected on the walls. He said, “That kind of inclusivity is not just talked about, it’s actually seen on the walls.”

This landmark Hindu temple in New Jersey, with its rich cultural diversity and complex history, is poised to become a significant focal point for Hindu and Indian American communities across the nation.

Mongolia in Tibetan Buddhism and China’s Influence

For centuries, Tibetan Buddhism has been guided by the Dalai Lama, an 88-year-old spiritual leader who sought refuge in India in 1959 and has since lived in exile. However, Beijing views the Dalai Lama as a separatist figure and insists that only the Communist Party, an avowedly atheist organization, possesses the authority to designate his next reincarnation, as well as that of other prominent lamas. This control over religious leadership is part of China’s strategy to diminish the Dalai Lama’s influence in Tibet and suppress any challenges to the Communist Party’s dominance. As the Dalai Lama advances in age, tensions escalate over the eventual struggle between Tibetan exiles and Beijing for the legitimate succession of his reincarnation.

Mongolia’s Complicated Role in the Tibetan Buddhist Leadership

Mongolia plays a pivotal role in this complex narrative due to the significant following the Dalai Lama enjoys within its borders. Nearly half of Mongolia’s 3.4 million population identifies as Buddhist. The roots of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia run deep, with a history spanning over seven centuries. Nevertheless, the faith faced severe suppression for more than seven decades during Mongolia’s socialist rule, which began in 1924. The resurgence of Buddhism only occurred following democratic reforms in the 1990s.

The veneration of the Dalai Lama has created a challenging situation for the Mongolian government. Mongolia heavily relies on China for virtually all its trade, which puts them in a vulnerable position. Beijing responded to the Dalai Lama’s 2016 visit to Mongolia by closing border crossings, imposing tariffs, and canceling bilateral talks, signaling the consequences of any association with the spiritual leader in the eyes of China.

Mongolia’s Spiritual Leader: The Bogd

The spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia is known as the Bogd, formally addressed as the Jebtsundamba Khutughtu. This position boasts a rich history dating back nearly four centuries to the descendants of the Mongol emperor Kublai Khan. Currently, an 8-year-old boy represents the 10th incarnation of the Bogd, succeeding the previous one who passed away in 2012.

Although Tibetan Buddhism does not adhere as rigidly to hierarchical structures as some organized religions, such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Bogd holds one of the most esteemed senior positions in Tibetan Buddhism, ranking after the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama. Notably, the Panchen Lama, who was appointed by the Dalai Lama in 1995, was abducted by China and replaced with a monk chosen by Beijing, illustrating China’s aggressive interference in Tibetan religious affairs.

The Enigmatic Process of Lama Selection

The selection process for high lamas is shrouded in mystery. Tibetan Buddhist leaders claim to follow an ancient tradition involving mystical visions and astrology to guide their search. Candidates are subjected to tests to determine if they exhibit qualities considered exceptionally holy. In the case of the boy chosen as the next Bogd, religious officials disclosed that he underwent a secret test as a toddler and successfully identified personal artifacts belonging to the previous Bogd.

Throughout history, this process has been criticized for being influenced by politics and, at times, corruption. In the late 18th century, Emperor Qianlong of China attempted to address these concerns by introducing a system where lots were drawn from a golden urn to select lamas. The Chinese Communist Party has revived this “golden urn” system as part of its efforts to control the appointment of senior monks. However, this system is widely viewed as illegitimate by those outside China.

The intricate relationship between Mongolia, Tibetan Buddhism, and China reflects the challenges and complexities surrounding religious leadership, succession, and external influence. As the Dalai Lama’s advancing age raises questions about his reincarnation, the dynamics between these key players will continue to shape the future of Tibetan Buddhism in the region.

Largest Hindu Temple Outside India Inaugurated In New Jersey

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the largest Hindu temple in the United States, opened its doors on Sunday, October 8th, in New Jersey. Situated in the city of Robbinsville, New Jersey, this temple is heralded as the largest Hindu temple outside of India in the modern era.

In a letter to BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed the profound spiritual significance of this occasion for devotees worldwide, stating, “It is an occasion of profound spiritual significance for the vast legion of devotees worldwide.” The temple will be accessible to the public starting from October 18th.

Architectural Marvel

This magnificent temple is a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship. Its construction involved four distinct varieties of marble from Italy and limestone from Bulgaria. These precious materials embarked on an extraordinary journey, spanning thousands of miles from their origins to India and ultimately reaching their final destination in New Jersey, as reported by the Associated Press. On-site, skilled artisans meticulously assembled these intricately carved pieces, akin to assembling a colossal jigsaw puzzle, resulting in the creation of this monumental Hindu temple.

Covering an expansive 126-acre area, this architectural masterpiece owes its existence to the unwavering dedication of artisans and volunteers who devoted approximately 4.7 million hours to painstakingly hand-carve around two million cubic feet of stone, according to the report.

The temple’s walls are adorned with carvings of historical figures, including prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Abraham Lincoln, as highlighted by Yogi Trivedi, a temple volunteer and a scholar of religion at Columbia University, in a statement to NBC News. He marveled at the temple’s beauty, saying, “I wake up every morning and scratch my eyes thinking, ‘Am I still in central New Jersey?’ It’s like being transported to another world, specifically to India.”

Construction Efforts

The construction of the Akshardham temple, a collaborative effort involving 12,500 volunteers from around the world, commenced in 2011, according to PTI.

This monumental achievement marks a significant milestone for the Hindu community in the United States and stands as a symbol of the dedication, craftsmanship, and unity of its creators. As it opens its doors to the public, it is poised to become a source of inspiration and a place of spiritual significance for devotees and visitors alike.

Dalmia Bharat Group Adopts Delhi’s Historic Red Fort

In a groundbreaking move, Dalmia Bharat Group has achieved the distinction of becoming the first corporate entity in India to adopt a historic monument classified under the Green category of the Monument Mitras program. The Dalmia Bharat Group has undertaken the adoption of the iconic Red Fort, a 17th-century marvel located in Delhi, committing a staggering sum of INR 250 million (INR 25 crores) for a duration spanning five years. This remarkable achievement saw them outshine competitors like IndiGo Airlines and the GMR Group, securing one of the most prestigious contracts available through the Indian government’s ‘Adopt A Heritage’ initiative.

The adoption of the Red Fort in Delhi was made possible through the ‘Adopt a Heritage’ project, a visionary concept developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, and the Archaeological Survey of India. This project was officially launched on September 27, 2017, coinciding with World Tourism Day, by President Ram Nath Kovind. It was conceived to provide corporate entities, public sector organizations, or individuals with the opportunity to become Monument Mitras, essentially friends of heritage sites. Through these adoptions, the Central Government seeks to facilitate the development of monuments, heritage sites, and tourist destinations across India.

Controversy Surrounding the Red Fort Adoption

The adoption of the Red Fort by the Dalmia Bharat Group has sparked vigorous debates among historians, writers, academicians, and cultural enthusiasts. These discussions revolve around the ethical implications of the project, with some critics questioning how the government could seemingly “pawn off” a significant portion of India’s historical legacy as if it were their “family heirlooms.” On the other hand, proponents argue that the monuments have merely been “adopted” and not “purchased,” emphasizing that this approach could ultimately reduce the government’s overseas loans by diverting funds from the maintenance of India’s heritage sites.

Prominent voices from both sides of the debate have shared their opinions:

“There’s a huge difference between Dalmia adopting, say, a haveli in Old Dilli and adopting the Red Fort itself. Tier 1 monuments are a nation’s crown jewels. They should not be played around with. It’s even more worrying that corporates cannot be held responsible for any damage.”

— William Dalrymple

“Main issue is interest, knowledge, and expertise. If a non-governmental entity has a proven track record in this area like the Aga Khan Trust, there is less of an issue. What is Dalmia’s track record of maintaining heritage monuments?”

— Patralekha Chatterjee

“If you hire someone to clean your house doesn’t mean you are selling your house to them. No, Red Fort is not being sold. It’s an innovative way to save the government some money and preserve a monument.” — Chetan Bhagat

Red Fort and Gandikota Fort: The Adoption Agreement

According to the Memorandum of Understanding, Dalmia Bharat Group is not only adopting the Red Fort but also the Gandikota Fort in Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. This dual adoption arrangement represents a significant commitment to preserving India’s historical treasures. In the past, similar agreements were reached for the adoption of the Mt. Stok Kangri trek route in Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the Gangotri Temple Area & Trail in Gaumukh, Uttarakhand. These agreements were signed by the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India and the State of Jammu & Kashmir. In total, approximately 90 monuments have been earmarked for adoption, categorized as Green, Blue, and Orange based on their importance and popularity among tourists.

The Green category includes not only the Red Fort but also the Taj Mahal in Agra, Qutub Minar in Mehrauli, and the Konark Temple in Odisha. In the Blue category, you will find Jantar Mantar and Purana Quila, both located in Delhi, while the Orange category encompasses monuments like Tipu Palace in Bengaluru and the Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh. Entities interested in becoming Mitras can choose to adopt from the Blue or Orange category, or a combination of the three categories. However, they are not permitted to solely adopt monuments or heritage sites from the Green category.

Corporate Adoption of India’s Monumental Heritage

The Dalmia Bharat Group’s adoption of the Red Fort sets a significant precedent, but it is not an isolated instance. Letters of Intent have been awarded to several other prominent entities for the adoption of various monuments. Among them, the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, Udayagiri & Khandagiri Sites in Bhubaneshwar, Orissa, Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, Karnataka, and Kotla Feroz Shah in Delhi have been chosen for adoption by the Dalmia Bharat Group.

Furthermore, a diverse array of industries, including hospitality, travel, and banking, have also received Letters of Intent for the adoption of other monuments. Some of the entities involved in this monumental initiative include Yes Bank, SBI Foundation, TK International Limited, Yatra Online Pvt Limited, ITC Hotels, and NBCC. These Letters of Intent have been issued in different phases to facilitate the adoption of over 90 heritage sites, contributing to the preservation and promotion of India’s rich historical legacy.

 

Secret World War II Tunnels To Open To Public

Plans have emerged for what is poised to become London’s most remarkable underground tourist attraction ever: the $268 million makeover of a mile-long network of World War II tunnels into a glamorous immersive experience.

Previously shrouded in secrecy and once shielded by the UK’s Official Secrets Act, these former espionage tunnels are slated for transformation by a team that includes the architects responsible for Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay and London’s Battersea Power Station. This transformation is contingent on securing planning approval later this autumn.

Picture: CNN

Situated approximately 40 meters beneath Chancery Lane tube station in High Holborn, the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels were constructed during the 1940s to provide refuge for Londoners during the Blitz bombing campaign of World War II. Since then, they remained off-limits to the general public, serving subsequent wartime roles such as housing Britain’s covert Special Operations Executive, an offshoot of MI6 and the real-world inspiration for James Bond’s Q Branch.

Subsequently, these tunnels were expanded to become the Kingsway Telephone Exchange, functioning as an internal communications hub during the Cold War in the 1950s. Notably, it played host to the “hotline” directly linking the leaders of the United States and the USSR. The exchange operated an extensive network of 5,000 trunk cables and was staffed by a bustling community of 200 workers responsible for managing phone lines.

In the 1980s, British Telecom assumed control of the site, establishing the world’s deepest licensed bar, exclusively catering to government personnel. This bar featured a game room replete with snooker tables and an opulent tropical fish tank, epitomizing the luxury of the 1980s.

By the close of that decade, the technology underpinning the telephone center had become outdated, leading to its decommissioning. However, fund manager Angus Murray, who serves as CEO of The London Tunnels, is now endeavoring to breathe life into the tunnel’s history by utilizing high-resolution immersive screens, interactive structures, scent-emitting technology, and an array of pinpoint speakers to captivate visitors.

Murray articulated, “The history of the tunnels, their scale, and their location between London’s Holborn and the historic Square Mile could establish these tunnels as one of London’s most sought-after tourist destinations.”

The proposed investment comprises £140 million ($170.5 million) for restoration work, coupled with an additional £80 million ($97 million) allocated for immersive enhancements. With the participation of architects Wilkinson-Eyre, this project has assembled a stellar team for a highly ambitious endeavor that far surpasses any other offerings in the city. Presently, London’s most established permanent underground tourist attraction is the Churchill War Rooms, situated just 12 feet below ground level, occupying a fraction of the 8,000-square-meter expanse of the Kingsway Exchange Tunnels.

Periodically, London Underground organizes Hidden London tours, allowing exploration of the city’s abandoned tube stations and tunnels. These tours consistently garner immense popularity, with tickets being snatched up as soon as they become available.

Nonetheless, eager subterranean adventurers may need to exercise patience. The London Tunnels project, should it proceed, is not anticipated to welcome its first awe-struck visitors until 2027. Yet, judging by its ambitious scope, it appears to be well worth the wait.

2023 World Culture Festival: Preliminary Lineup Announced

The District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser joined global humanitarian and peacemaker Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living, to announce the preliminary lineup for the 2023 World Culture Festival, to be held September 29 through October 1, 2023, on the historic National Mall in the U.S. capital.

The Honorable Mayor Muriel Bowser:”We are delighted to host the fourth-annual World Culture Festival. Washington, D.C. is the perfect city to bring people together from around the globe. We are a city that celebrates diversity and inclusivity, a global city, a welcoming city, and a city that loves visitors. We know that Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s message that ‘diversity is the beauty of creation’ aligns with our D.C. values. So, we invite people to plan their visits, and we’ll see you in the fall!”

The World Culture Festival, which has attracted millions in its previous iterations in Asia and Europe, will come to the United States for the first time ever for an epic celebration of global diversity, unity and peace:

  • #YOUnitedWeCelebrate: Gurudev and Mayor Bowser invited the public to join in on the world’s largest celebration of diversity and belongingness.
  • Bridging the Divide: Amidst increasing political and societal polarization, world leaders will come together to affirm a collective intention for unity and peace.
  • Social Connection: As the world grapples with epidemic loneliness, isolation, and mental health burden, the Festival’s attendees will experience the power of social connection.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: “We need to bridge the gap. There is a lot of polarization in the world. The World Culture Festival is an occasion for people to come together and celebrate each other’s differences. It is the need of the hour, to bring people together in celebration and to spread the message of peace and to say that we are one human family.”

PRELIMINARY LINEUP:

  • Over 50 world leaders,including current and former heads of state, members of national parliaments and international governmental organizations, have already committed to attending the Festival, including:
  • E. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, 8th Secretary General of the United Nations
  • E. Chan Santokhi, President of Suriname
  • E. Pravind Jugnauth, Prime Minister of Mauritius
  • E. Vicente Fox, Former President of Mexico
  • E. Federico Franco, Former President of Paraguay
  • E. Venkaiah Naidu, Former Vice President of India
  • E. Alojz Peterle, Former Prime Minister of Slovenia
  • E. Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, Former President of Ecuador
  • E. Kjell Magne-Bondevik, Former Prime Minister of Norway
  • Hildebrando Tapia, Former Member of Andean Parliament

Thousands of unique performers and artists will take part in the jam-packed entertainment lineup. All performers are based in the United States, representing the cultures and heritage of over 35 countries and counting. Performance groups include:

  • 1,000+ Chinese Cultural Performers
  • 1,000-Person Gospel Choir
  • 500 Indian Classical Dancers
  • 500-Person Global Dance Mashup
  • 200 Hip-Hop Dancers
  • 200 Ukrainian Dancers
  • 200 Latin-American Dancers
  • 100 Afghan Performers
  • 100 Native American Performers

 A global Faith Advisory councilis being convened in support of the World Culture Festival. The council, composed of leaders from faiths of the world, will share messages about common values of peace, harmony and partnership to nurture greater unity and togetherness. More details to come.

There will be a diverse international food festivalassociated with the event that is expected to attract thousands to sample international cuisines made by chefs from around the capital region. Over 50 ethnic food trucks are expected to be in a designated area along the National Mall.

There will be multiple pop-up cultural events throughout the District of Columbialeading up to the festival, including at least one in each of D.C.’s eight community wards. These pop-ups will be a chance for D.C. residents and visitors to preview and experience the celebration of culture and unity before the historic event from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1. Details and dates for all upcoming pop-ups will be announced soon.

The first D.C. pop-up is Saturday, May 20 at the picturesque Meridian Hill Park. The free pop-up is open to the public and will have music, dance, yoga and meditation. The afternoon’s highlight will be a live meditation conducted by Art of Living founder Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. For more information, please visit tiny.cc/wcfpopup.

 WCF’S EXPANSIVE SCOPE AND SCALE:

The World Culture Festival is expected to attract more than 150,000 visitors. This festival is expected to have an economic impact of over $30M in revenue.

The previous WCF in New Delhi, India, created a 45% increase in the GDP of the union territory of Delhi and contributed $300 million dollars to the economy of the union territory of Delhi.

As of mid-May, 45,000 people have already registered to attend the World Culture Festival, with 80 percent of registrants coming from the United States and 20 percent from abroad.

  • Of the US registrants, 27 percent come from the greater D.C. area, while the rest are from all corners of the country.

Thousands of hotel rooms have already been booked ahead of the Festival. As of mid-May, 2,180 hotel rooms have been booked at the various neighboring hotels in the area.

Festival grounds will span the entire National Mall and will be similar in size to presidential inaugurations. It is being designed to be the largest event in D.C. this year, based on the permit given by the U.S. National Park Service.

Hargrove is working as the event designer, bringing Gurudev’s vision to life across the National Mall. The Festival is a D.C. endeavor that has been in the works for the better part of a year.

There will be an expansive performer/speaker stage – with vast audience seating (over 12,000 seats) to watch the events unfold – in addition to a large portion of the Mall dedicated to various World Culture Festival Activations. The dance floor is expected to be over 32,000 sq ft and will provide over a football field’s worth of performance space.

RECEPTION COMMITTEE/ORGANIZING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

The Reception Committee is composed of high-level government officials lending their experience and expertise to the Festival. Full list of names are below.

Video testimonials from Hon. Danny Davis, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL); Hon. Andy Kim, Member of House of Representatives (D-NJ); Hon. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL); Virginia State Senator Chap Petersen(D-Fairfax City); Hon. Michelle Steel, Member of House of Representatives (R-CA); Hon. Mike Quigley, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL) can be found here.

Reception Committee Members:

  • E. Ban Ki-moon, the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the Reception Committee
  • E. Pravind Jugnauth, Prime Minister, Mauritius
  • E. Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, President, Fiji
  • E. Chan Santokhi, President, Suriname
  • E. Jacques Santer, Former President, European Commission and Former Prime Minister, Luxembourg
  • E. Erik Solheim, Former UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Environmental Programme (UNEP) and Former Minister of International Development & Environment, Norway
  • E. Venkaiah Naidu, Former Vice President, India
  • E. Kjell Magne Bondevik, Former Prime Minister, Norway Founder and Executive Chair, The Oslo Center
  • E. Helen Clark, Former Prime Minister, New Zealand
  • E. Nambaryn Enkhbayar, Former President, Mongolia
  • E. Mark Eyskens, Former Prime Minister, Belgium
  • E. Vicente Fox, Former President, Mexico
  • E. Federico Franco, Former President, Paraguay
  • E. Mohamed Moncef Marzouki, Former President, Tunisia
  • E. Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President, Nigeria
  • E. Alojz Peterle, Former Prime Minister, Slovenia
  • E. Rosalia Arteaga Serrano, Former President, Ecuador and Executive Director, Fidal Foundation
  • E. Jigmi Yoser Thinkley, Former Prime Minister, Bhutan
  • E. Akie Abe, Former First Lady, Japan
  • H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
  • Ryszard Czarnecki, Former Vice President of the European Parliament, Poland
  • Prof. Herman De Croo, Minister of State, Honorary Speaker of the House, Honorary Mayor of Brakel, Belgium
  • Armin Laschet, Member of German Parliament and Vice President, Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and Former Minister-President, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
  • Sumitra Mahajan, Former Speaker of the Lok Sabha, India
  • Nancy Pelosi, Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, United States of America
  • Right Honorable Sir Robert James Buckland KBE KC MP, Former Lord Chancellor and Wales Secretary, United Kingdom
  • Ted Baillieu, Former Premier of Victoria, Australia
  • Bruno Bruins, Former Minister for Medical Care, Netherlands
  • Raymond LaHood, Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, United States of America
  • Hakubun Shimomura, Member of the House of Representatives and Former Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan
  • Hildebrando Tapia, Former Vice President, Andean Parliament, Peru
  • Geoffrey Van Orden CBE, Former Leader of British Conservatives in the European Parliament, United Kingdom
  • Danny Davis, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL), United States of America
  • Mike Quigley, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL), United States of America
  • Bill Foster, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL), United States of America
  • Andy Barr, Member of House of Representatives (R-KY), United States of America
  • Richard Hudson, Member of House of Representatives (R-NC), United States of America
  • Marc Veasey, Member of House of Representatives (D-TX), United States of America
  • Ro Khanna, Member of House of Representatives (D-CA), United States of America
  • Raja Krishnamoorthi, Member of House of Representatives (D-IL), United States of America
  • Andy Kim, Member of House of Representatives (D-NJ), United States of America
  • Jake Auchincloss, Member of House of Representatives (D-MA), United States of America
  • Jerry Carl, Member of House of Representatives (R-AL), United States of America
  • Young Kim, Member of House of Representatives (R-CA), United States of America
  • Deborah Ross, Member of House of Representatives (D-NC), United States of America
  • Michelle Steel, Member of House of Representatives (R-CA), United States of America
  • Kevin Kiley, Member of House of Representatives (R-CA), United States of America
  • Laurel Lee, Member of House of Representatives (R-FL), United States of America
  • Rick McCormick, Member of House of Representatives (R-GA), United States of America
  • Shri Thanedar, Member of House of Representatives (D-MI), United States of America
  • Binod Chaudhary, Member of Parliament, Nepal and Chairman and President, The Chaudhary Group (CG)
  • Yvonne Feri, Member of Parliament, Switzerland
  • Dr. Nik Gugger, Member of the Parliament, Switzerland and Member of the European Parliament
  • His Highness Azzan Bin Qais Al Said, Vice Chairman, Oman National Olympic Committee, Oman

Organizing Committee Members:

The Organizing Committee contributes their leadership, experience, and counsel to build an unforgettable World Culture Festival IV.

  • Rob Trombold, President of Art of Living and Convener of World Culture Festival
  • Ann Luskey, Founder and Trustee, Charlotte’s Web Foundation
  • Binod Chaudhary, Member of Parliament of Nepal and Chairman and President of The Chaudhary Group (CG)
  • Chirag Patel, President and CEO, Amneal Pharmaceuticals
  • Courteney Monroe, President, National Geographic Global Television Networks
  • Francisco Sanchez, Former U.S. Under-Secretary of Commerce at the US Department of Commerce
  • Jo Leinen, Former Member of European Parliament
  • Luis Moreno Ocampo, Founding Prosecutor of International Court of Justice
  • Louis Gagnon, Founder and CEO of the Regenerative Group
  • Madhu Rao, Former CEO of Shangri-La Group
  • Manoj K. Jain, Founder and President of Mid-South Infectious Disease Associates
  • Mike Perlis, Vice Chairman of Forbes Media
  • E. Nirj Deva DL FRSA, President Envoy to Western Europe & Commonwealth of Nations for the Commonwealth Union and Former Vice President for International Development, European Parliament
  • Prem Jain, Co-Founder of Pensando Systems, now the Networking Solutions Group AMD Pensando
  • Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers
  • Ranvir Trehan, General Trustee, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
  • Reginald Van Lee, Partner and Chief Transformation Officer, Carlyle Group
  • Rodney Mims Cook Jr., President of the National Monuments Foundation
  • Ross Perot Jr., Chairman of the Perot Group
  • Sanjay Govil, Chairman, Infinite Computer Solutions
  • Sanjay Pradhan, CEO of Open Government Partnership
  • Sreenivas Reddy, MD, Vascular Interventional Radiologist
  • Tim Draper, Founder of Draper Associates, DFJ, and Draper Venture Network
  • Tim Ryan, Former Congressman D-OH13
  • Tonya Vidal Kinlow, Vice President of Community Engagement, Advocacy and Government Affairs at Children’s National Hospital and Chair of the Board of DC Chamber of Commerce
  • E. AMB. Vijay Nambiar, Former Chef-de-Cabinet of the United Nations & Special Ambassador to Myanmar
  • Vivek Paul, Adjunct Professor, Stanford University

TICKET INFORMATION

All World Culture Festival events are free and open to the public. All ages are encouraged to join. Registration and ticket information for the fall festival in Washington, D.C. can be found at www.worldculturefest.org. Please direct all inquiries to [email protected] for further information.

 PAST WORLD CULTURE FESTIVALS:

Bangalore (2006):2.5 million attendees, including 3,800 musicians and performers, 750 political and business leaders, alongside 1,000 spiritual and religious figures.

Berlin (2011): 70,000 attendees from 151 countries including 6,000 artists and dignitaries including ministers and members of parliament.

New Delhi (2016): 3.75 million attendees from 155 countries including 36,603 artists and 2,500 religious and spiritual leaders from Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, Zoroastrian, Islamic, Jain, Native American, and Tribal faiths.

MEDIA ACCESS:

World Culture Festival 2023 welcomes press outlets from Washington, D.C. and around the world to cover the weekend’s festivities. We are happy to provide approved members of the media with exclusive access. Please check back soon as applications for media will be available this spring. Reach out to [email protected] with any questions or for pre-event interview opportunities.

MEDIA RESOURCES:

About Art of Living Foundation

Operating in 180 countries, The Art of Living Foundation (AOLF) is a nonprofit, educational and humanitarian organization founded in 1981 by the renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. All of AOLF’s programs are inspired by Gurudev’s philosophy of creating world peace through a stress-free and violence-free society. AOLF has touched over 800 million lives through numerous educational and self-development programs and tools that facilitate the elimination of stress and foster deep and profound inner peace, happiness and well-being for individuals.

 About Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a global humanitarian, spiritual leader, and peace envoy. He has helped millions of people worldwide find peace and resilience in the face of adversity, learning not only how to excel in their own lives, but also how to become powerful agents for social change.

Gurudev has created trauma-relief and meditation programs for at-risk youth, war veterans, prisoners and survivors of disaster. He has also created numerous educational and self-development programs and tools that facilitate the elimination of stress and foster deep and profound inner peace, happiness and well-being for individuals.

Standing for the Gandhian principles of non-violence, Gurudev has mediated and progressed negotiations for peace in conflict-stricken areas such as Sri Lanka, Iraq, Venezuela, and Colombia, where he is credited for playing a central role in ending the violent 52-year conflict between FARC and the Colombian government. He has received 39 governmental awards, including the highest civilian awards from several nations. Twenty-four universities have awarded him with honorary doctorates for his peace-keeping and humanitarian efforts.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Acharya Lokesh Muni Recognized by US Congress

Recognizing their contributions to world peace and harmony, the United States Congress has honored two Indian spiritual leaders, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Acharya Lokesh Muni.

A popular Indian Yoga guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founded the Art of Living Foundation, to improve the lives of people around the world through meditation and yoga. Acharya Lokesh Muni is a Jain spiritual leader and the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, which aims to spread the message of peace, harmony, non-violence, and brotherhood in the world.

Highlighting Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s work in the US House of Representatives, Indian American Congressman, Raja Krishnamoorthi said, “With his message of peace and commitment to education and humanitarianism, Gurudev has lived a life dedicated to the betterment of others.”

“Through his charity work and educational efforts, Gurudev has spread his belief that if individuals find inner peace, it can lead to real-world reductions in violence and conflict,” Krishnamoorthi said.

The Congressman also acknowledged Acharya Lokesh Muni’s dedication to promoting nonviolence, religious acceptance, and universal brotherhood, a cause for which he devoted the early years of his life.

“At a young age, Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni committed himself to the study and teaching of Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic philosophy,” Krishnamoorthi told the House. “He has dedicated himself to the promotion of peace and tolerance among different faith groups,” he added.

The Indian American leader further elaborated on Lokesh Muni’s efforts to quell communal and religious violence through the recently established World Peace Center in Gurugram, India and his organisation’s support in hosting several interfaith dialogues around the world.

The Largest Hindu Temple On American Opens Its Doors

After a lengthy period of planning and construction spanning 12 years, the grandest Hindu temple outside of India is poised to open its doors to the public in October. The BAPS Akshardham, located in Robbinsville, New Jersey, will be the third of its kind, following the temples in Gujarat and New Delhi, with the latter being recognized as the largest Hindu temple complex globally.

This architectural marvel, known as Akshardham, which translates to the “abode of the Divine,” is a testament to the harmonious blend of ancient scriptural principles and the intricacies of New Jersey zoning regulations. Sprawling across a vast 183-acre expanse, the New Jersey Akshardham includes a Maha Mandir (main temple), a traditional temple, a welcome center, a museum, and an event space.

Chaitali Inamdar, a devoted member of the Hindu community, expressed the significance of this achievement: “Having this Akshardham here on American soil is not just the triumph of a community or the triumph of the diaspora — it is the triumph of the nation.”

The construction of the New Jersey Akshardham has garnered significant attention from the Hindu American community over the past decade. However, it has also been marred by legal matters, specifically a lawsuit alleging forced labor within the BAPS organization, which arose in 2021. Although the lawsuit is currently on hold, it has raised important questions about distinguishing between unpaid work and selfless service in the name of the Divine.

Members of the BAPS community are renowned for their commitment to selfless service, known as “seva,” which they consider an act of devotion to God. Through their seva, BAPS has established an impressive network of 100 temples across the United States. Furthermore, the sampradaya, or Hindu sect, is poised to celebrate its 50th anniversary in North America next year.

Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, commonly referred to as BAPS, is a Hindu tradition that follows the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. According to their beliefs, Bhagwan Swaminarayan is present on Earth through six spiritual leaders, with Mahant Swami Maharaj currently holding this role.

Devotees explain that Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor, envisioned the creation of a magnificent spiritual campus in the United States when he assumed leadership of BAPS in 1971. Inamdar, a chemical engineer and BAPS member, stated, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s ultimate singular vision [was] that, no matter which belief, which background you come from, this place is here to enrich everybody and allow everybody to feel peace and inspiration. The Akshardham is truly allowing the world to be one family.”

Visitors to the New Jersey Akshardham will enter through the Nilkanth Plaza, named after Swaminarayan’s teenage form, Nilkanth Varni, who is said to have traveled across India to revive the principles of Sanātana Dharma, or Hinduism. Dominating the entrance is a towering 49-foot statue of Nilkanth Varni, representing his 49 years on Earth.

Picture :WP

The Welcome Center, which connects to the vegetarian Shayona Cafe, immerses visitors in Indian celebrations and artistry. Thousands of “diyas” (lights) adorn the walls, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The scent of incense and the resonance of Sanskrit chants fill the air around the Brahm Kund pond, paying homage to the sacred waters of India. Remarkably, waters from rivers spanning all 50 states have been brought to New Jersey by dedicated volunteers.

Over 12,500 volunteers from diverse cultural backgrounds and faiths came together from across North America and the world to construct the Maha Mandir. This remarkable structure was meticulously crafted from white sandstone, limestone, marble, and granite by temple artisans in India. Adorning the four characteristic domes of the Mandir are nine shikharas or spires, each themed to represent different aspects of Hindu scriptures, including Vedic astrology.

Within the Mandir entrance, statues of dancers, musicians, and musical instruments serve as reminders of the importance of song and dance in Hindu traditions. Notably, this will be the first structure to showcase all 108 poses of the ancient Hindu dance form Bharatanatyam.

Some volunteers dedicated up to two weeks to this monumental project, while others, like 27-year-old Arjun Pandya, felt compelled to stay for two years. Pandya temporarily paused his career in corporate finance at Amazon to undertake seva in Robbinsville. Reflecting on his experience, Pandya said, “To have an opportunity to build something not only for my family and my community, but for the world, and to make something greater than myself, was very attractive.” He acknowledged that the conclusion of this journey is bittersweet, but the invaluable lessons and friendships he’s gained will remain with him forever.

Pandya eloquently summarized his experience: “I thought I’d be giving time, but I’m now realizing how much I’ve gained, not only in the friendships that I’ve built, but the values that are foundational to me that I’ll take with me forever.”

Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s teachings, according to devotees, emphasize values such as humility, compassion, and harmony. Akshardham will serve as not only a residence for the Swamis of the BAPS faith but also a sanctuary for the deities venerated across the broader Hindu spectrum.

Yagnesh Patel, a devotee originally from Kenya, where the BAPS community grew due to Indian migration patterns during British colonial rule, expressed his thoughts. “Any practicing Hindu, anyone who wants to know more about Hinduism, or even just a friend in my community, I have a place to bring them,” he stated. Patel, who was present with his children 12 years ago when BAPS initiated construction in Robbinsville, participated in the Bhumi Pujan ceremony, a tradition involving offering prayers to Mother Earth and God before commencing construction work. His son and daughter, now in their early twenties, have dedicated their time to Akshardham’s construction. “Both my kids are ideal American citizens, born in America, but they can raise their heads and say, ‘I am an American Hindu, and I am so proud that I was part of a place that many can visit as they come to this country,'” Patel proudly declared. “That has been my proudest moment.”

The construction of Akshardham was a challenging 12-year journey for the thousands of volunteers involved, some of whom arrived in the country on R-1 religious visas. They lived and worked on the mandir campus tirelessly. “It’s nonstop seva,” one worker remarked to another in mid-September, just weeks before the opening.

In 2017 and 2022, two devotees lost their lives while working on the construction, reasons the organization attributed to factors unrelated to safety conditions. As recently as March 2023, the Robbinsville Township police department responded to an offsite BAPS housing unit due to elevated levels of carbon monoxide.

In a headline-making event in May 2021, several volunteers originally from India initiated a class-action lawsuit against BAPS, citing wage theft, unsafe working conditions, and mistreatment of workers. However, the laborers withdrew the lawsuit earlier this year.

“The parties agreed to put the lawsuit on hold pending an investigation with which BAPS continues to cooperate fully,” said Ronak Patel, spokesperson for BAPS Temple Organization. “When the facts emerge, BAPS believes that they will reflect BAPS’ principles of kindness, equity, and respect for all human beings. BAPS continues to pray for all involved.”

Regarding the allegations of unpaid labor, BAPS stressed that worship through seva (selfless service) is at the core of the BAPS community, and the workers came to the U.S. as volunteers, not as employees.

“Because BAPS traditions emphasize serving those who serve, we took care of the artisans’ needs in the U.S., including travel, lodging, food, medical care, and internet and pre-paid phone cards so they could stay in touch with their families in India,” Patel added. “BAPS India also supported the artisans’ families in India, so they did not suffer financial hardship as a result of the artisans’ seva in the U.S.”

For many within the BAPS community, the opening in October represents an opportunity to showcase what can happen when devotees from around the world unite through the common thread of devotion.

“The ability to come together in volunteership, in selfless service, it created a sense of comfort and commonality,” expressed Ashini Parikh, a devotee from Atlanta. She reflected on the exponential increase in American awareness of Hinduism since her childhood as a first-generation kid. Playing a role in Hindu American history, for her, is an incredibly humbling experience.

“I am so proud that we as a community can come together from all walks of life, and we’ve all been able to be a part of this one thing that is going to have ripple effects for so many generations to come,” she remarked. “We all want to leave the planet a better place, and my contributions towards Akshardham allows me to leave the planet a better place well beyond my time.”

Shantiniketan Added To UNESCO World Heritage List

There was an air of celebration and jubilation around Visva Bharati University in the Birbhum district of West Bengal after Shantiniketan, where Rabindranath Tagore spent a significant part of his life, was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

The iconic university building and compound were lit up with decorative lights and the faculty, staff and hostelers, dressed in traditional attire, were seen breaking into Rabindrasangeet (Tagore songs) as word of the prestigious UNESCO tag reached them.

Picture : IE

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressed her delight on X (formerly Twitter), “Glad and proud that our Santiniketan, the town of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, is now finally included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Biswa Bangla’s pride, Santiniketan was nurtured by the poet and has been supported by (the) people of Bengal over the generations.”

She added that her government had “significantly added” to the infrastructure” at Santiniketan over its last 12 years in power.

“We from the Government of West Bengal have significantly added to its infrastructure in last 12 years and the world now recognizes the glory of the heritage place. Kudos to all who love Bengal, Tagore, and his messages of fraternity. Jai Bangla, Pranam to Gurudev,” Mamata added in her tweet.

UNESCO India posted on X earlier, officially confirming that it had bestowed the World Heritage tag on Tagore’s abode. “#Santiniketan, West Bengal now inscribed on the #WorldHeritage List!! Established in rural West Bengal in 1901, Santiniketan was founded by Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned poet and philosopher. It is now India’s 41st #WorldHeritageSite,”

Also rejoicing the heritage tag for Shantiniketan, West Bengal Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Shashi Panja said, “Today is a proud moment for Bengal. It’s a proud moment for India.”

Shantiniketan is an ensemble of historic buildings, landscapes and gardens, pavilions, artworks, and continuing educational and cultural traditions that together express its Outstanding Universal Value, UNESCO said in a release.

Parliament of World’s Religions A Must Attend Convention for Everyone

Growing up in 1960s and 70s in India, I learned that Swami Vivekananda’s speech in the first Parliament of World’s Religions on September 11, 1893, in Chicago was an instant success. He was given just five minutes to talk about his religion, Hinduism. But his greetings “Sisters and Brothers of America” made the audience burst into an emotional applause. Ultimately, he spoke for several minutes and delivered a very impactful speech, that resulted in invitations for a series of lectures in the West.  In my school and college days, I never thought that one day I will attend the Parliament of World’s Religions. But I did it in 2015, when the Parliament of World’s Religion was held in my hometown, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States. I would like to share my life-changing experiences with the readers.

Parliament of World’s Religions (PWR) is the world’s premier interfaith convention of civic and spiritual nature, organized by a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization with its headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, where the first convention was held in 1893. The PWR is held periodically, with no defined intervals. For instance, after 100 years, it was held again in Chicago in 1993, then in Cape Town (1999), Barcelona (2004), Melbourne (2009), Salt Lake City (2015), Toronto (2018), virtually in 2021, and the most recent one was again held in Chicago from August 14 to 18, 2023.

SAI Kuteer, our stall or booth at the PWR

For the PWR convention in Salt Lake City held from October 15th to 19th, 2015, the theme was Reclaiming the Heart of Our Humanity: Working Together for a World of Compassion, Peace, Justice, and Sustainability. Over 10,000 delegates from all over the world, belonging to different religions and faiths attended the convention. They represented over 50 faiths from 75 nations. There were over 200 stalls or booths representing different faiths. Over 800 programs with eight major plenary sessions were held, where systemic and human-caused challenges of our time were discussed. Specifically, the delegates discussed climate change, bigotry and hatred, rampant violence, preventable wars, abuse of human rights, and unchecked income equality. Emerging issues, such as preservation of the rights, hopes, and beliefs or diverse indigenous people also received equal attention. Women representative spoke about gender equality. Overall, it was a convention that focused not only on religion and faith, but also on human values as they relate to our belief in the Almighty as the caretaker of the world.

Picture : TheUNN

From the point of an ordinary attendee like me, one could experience the beautiful things religion and faith can offer to humanity. The world does not need new religions or faith. The existing ones are adequate if they are properly understood and followed in the right sense. What is needed is proper understanding and mutual respect among different religions or faiths, with love and compassion in the heart for all with no barriers. Then tolerance and acceptance will come automatically. This was clear to anyone who attended the convention. When I spoke to people of some unknown faiths from remote parts of the world we had never heard of, I found that they also shared our aspirations for a better world. Then where is the problem? It seems only a few people in each religion stir the issues that divide us. If we can develop the understanding to live with mutual respect and love and compassion, the world will change and become heaven in no time. The question is can this message be carried across the globe? May be if this type of interfaith conventions is held more frequently in different parts of the world, it is possible to bring the badly needed transformation at the individual level. That only can assure welfare of humanity. As Swami Vivekananda said in his first speech in PWR in Chicago, “Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendent, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often with human blood, destroyed civilizations and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would be far more advanced than it is now. But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honor of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.” Those words were uttered 130 years ago by Swami Vivekananda. Now, the time has come to get rid of those evils and move into a promising future for our children and grandchildren. We cannot afford to have these age-old evils in our backyards with Artificial Intelligence in our homes and offices.

Apart from attending the convention in Salt Lake City, we also hosted a booth about our newly launched SAI Kuteer, a faith-based charity. The world needs charity as much as it needs faith. Faith cannot be nurtured without selfless work for the community. Although so many religions and faiths were represented at the PWR convention in Salt Lake City, the highlight was Langar organized by the International Sikh Confederation. While we rented 10 feet x 5 feet stalls in units of one or more, the Sikh organizers rented the space equivalent to a football field. They cooked food on the spot and served delicious lunch for about 10,000 delegates on every day of the convention. It was an amazing feat or service for most Americans, who never saw such mass scale cooking of fresh food and serving. Many Americans were motivated and volunteered serving the food, cleaning the place etc. Some even wore turbans as a token of solidarity with the Sikh community. Sitting on the floor and eating delicious food with many varieties and a glass of mango lassi, I was transposed momentarily to the days I spent in Prasanthi Nilayam, the abode of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, my favorite place on earth. Without my notice, tears rolled down my cheeks. That happens when Divinity manifests in a place where there is absolute selfless service.

Finally, on the last day of the convention, while dismantling our booth, I realized that God could manifest anywhere, provided we have the love and compassion in our heart and realize this world is His place and we should behave like His children and stop fighting among ourselves thinking that our path is the right one or the best one or superior one. It is all a myth. There is no such thing as the best or superior ones. All paths lead to Him. When more and more people among us start realizing this fact, the world becomes a pleasant place to live and grow. So, next time the PWR convention is held near your place or anywhere in your country, please attend it. It is equivalent to going on a pilgrimage. You will come home with lots of pleasant memories, peace of mind and reassurance that despite all its problems, the world is still a good place to live, and we can make it even better, like Vasudevakutambakam

 (Prof. Bellamkonda K. Kishore, M.D., Ph.D., MBA is an Academician, Innovator, and entrepreneur. Visit:
https://www.bkkishore.online/ 

University of Houston Initiates Tamil Studies Program in Partnership with ICCR

Tamil Studies classes have commenced at the University of Houston, marking a significant step forward in the institution’s collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). This academic endeavor stems from the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inked between ICCR and the University of Houston (UoH) in June 2023. These inaugural classes are under the tutelage of Dr. Vijayalakshmi, a distinguished visiting professor of Indian Studies.

The inauguration of this educational endeavor was attended by Manjunath Chenneerapa, the Consul General of India in Houston, UoH’s College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences dean, the director of Indian Studies, and representatives from both UoH and the Houston Tamil Studies Chair. This partnership, rooted in the MoU, has laid the foundation for the ICCR chair of Indian Studies, which will be held by a visiting scholar from India, specializing in Tamil studies, commencing in the fall of 2023.

Picture: TheUNN

The visiting professor assumes a multifaceted role, encompassing the education of students, collaboration on research initiatives, and the delivery of public presentations aimed at promoting Tamil culture. With a global community of over 80 million speakers, the Tamil language boasts an ancient heritage, positioning it among the world’s oldest languages. Remarkably, the United States is home to nearly 300,000 Tamil-Americans.

UoH President Renu Khator, who holds the distinction of being the first Indian immigrant to lead a comprehensive research university in the United States, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. She noted that this partnership would undoubtedly fortify the cultural bonds between the two nations. She emphasized that expanding the university’s international presence enriches the educational journey of their students, equipping them for success on the global stage.

The University of Houston has become one of only three American universities to participate in ICCR’s global Indian chairs Abroad program, alongside Rutgers University and the University of Pittsburgh. Dan O’Connor, the dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, underscored the pivotal role played by the visiting professor in bridging diverse cultures. O’Connor stated, “India is not only a modern, global hub of business and culture; it’s an ancient hub as well, replete with a history, literature, and architectural heritage spanning millennia. It’s imperative to safeguard this legacy through collaborative partnerships like this, for the benefit of tomorrow’s global leaders, some of whom are currently being nurtured right here at UH.”

The roots of this academic collaboration trace back to 2019 when the non-profit organization Houston Tamil Studies Chair, Inc. pledged a substantial $2 million donation to the University of Houston. This generous contribution led to the establishment of an endowed chair in Tamil studies. Additionally, the Mutyala family contributed $250,000, endowing the Sita and Bhaskara Rao Mutyala Professorship of India Studies, a position currently held by Sarasij Majumder.

Celebrating India’s Heritage and Unity: The Konark Chakra Illuminates Times Square

New York City’s iconic Times Square was graced with a profound cultural exhibition, celebrating the ageless bond between India and the United States. The esteemed presence of Mayor Eric Adams at this event marked the significance of this occasion. Rajeev Kaul, a distinguished Board Member of the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), expressed the sentiment, stating, “We are honored to welcome Mayor Eric Adams to this remarkable exhibition, which pays tribute to the timeless cultural bond between India and the United States.” Kaul further emphasized that the placement of the Chakra Sculpture in the heart of Times Square symbolizes the enduring friendship and shared values that unite the two nations.

This event witnessed the unveiling of the Konark Chakra, a symbolic representation of India’s heritage, wisdom, and philosophy. As the Chakra found its prominent position in Times Square, it was not only an homage to India’s rich cultural tapestry but also a testimony to the enduring connection between the United States and India. The Chakra, reminiscent of one of the twenty-four wheels adorning the Konark Temple dedicated to the Sun God, embodies the essence of India’s history, resilience, and unity. The sculpture serves as a beacon of the nation’s deep reverence for nature and the sun, embodying values that resonate with the city of New York.

Picture: New Indian Express

Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, shared his gratitude towards all those who made this initiative possible, stating, “We extend our warmest gratitude to The Honorable Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City, for joining us on this momentous occasion, to Mr. Vikas Khanna and to the Indo-American Arts Council Inc. for their partnership in the project. I also thank the State Bank of India for their support.” Jaiswal’s words emphasized the collaborative effort that brought the Konark Chakra to its remarkable display in Times Square.

Celebrated Chef, Restaurateur, Writer, and Filmmaker Vikas Khanna, brimming with pride, shared his sentiments about representing India on August 15th. He emphasized the profound symbolism of the Chakra, which encapsulates the artisans’ dedication, history, and culture. Khanna spoke of this day as a gift from ancestors who sacrificed and endured to ensure the freedom of future generations. He highlighted his personal journey as a testament to the power of freedom, expressing his pride in choosing to become a chef. Khanna’s words resonated as he saluted those who stood for this freedom and envisioned India’s future.

The Chakra Sculpture itself stands as a tribute to craftsmanship and artistic brilliance. With dimensions measuring 8 feet by 6 feet and weighing around 1800 kilograms (approximately 4,000 pounds), it mirrors the revered emblem from the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha. The original Konark Chakra, a meticulously crafted stone wheel, was one of the twenty-four such wheels adorning the historic Konark Sun Temple. Despite facing challenges throughout its history, including invasions and natural disasters, the Konark Sun Temple’s enduring spirit persevered.

The intricate carvings and symbolic representation of the Konark Chakra continue to captivate visitors, serving as a poignant reminder of India’s architectural and cultural legacy. The sculpture’s resilience in the face of adversity mirrors the enduring power and movement of the Sun, a source of sustenance and life. This symbolism resonates with the very values that the city of New York embodies.

The Konark Chakra’s presence in the heart of Times Square stands as a testament to the lasting friendship and shared values between India and the United States. The sculpture not only celebrates India’s cultural heritage but also signifies unity, resilience, and the enduring power of nature. This remarkable event, graced by Mayor Eric Adams and joined by various collaborators, highlights the deep-rooted connections that bridge nations and cultures.

Why The Hindu Right Opposes Affirmative Action In The US

At the point when the US High Court as of late banned governmental policy regarding minorities in society in school affirmations, among those praising the second were areas of the Hindu right in America.

The Hindu Policy Research and Advocacy Collective (HinduPACT), for instance, was quick to tweet: “#RacialQuotas in ed. adversely impacted #IndianAmerican students. We welcome #AffirmativeAction ruling by the #SCOTUS”. HinduPACT is an advocacy group established by the US branch of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHPA) – an organisation known for its role in the rise of Hindu militancy in India.

However, for what reason does a gathering related with the Hindu patriot reasoning of Hindutva care about governmental policy regarding minorities in society in the US?

Picture : ALJAZEERA

To some degree, it is an indication of a consistently developing kinship between US preservationists and diaspora Hindu patriots. However, similarly, it means that a hazardous obscuring of lines between legislative issues at home and abroad – and a work to close down analysis of verifiable and current oppression individuals from strict minorities and lower standings, in India as well as in the US.

For it is that separation that governmental policy regarding minorities in society looked to handle under the watchful eye of the High Court struck it down.

A unified governmental issues

However Indian Americans – like most migrant networks – proceed to generally uphold the Leftist alliance, fragments of the Indian diaspora have been revitalizing help for conservatives. That pattern has gotten forward momentum lately.

The Republican Hindu Coalition (RHC), sent off in 2015 by Chicago-based finance manager Shalabh Kumar to construct a scaffold between Hindu Americans and the Conservative Faction, expectedly advocates for more modest, restricted government and lower charges. It accepts the public authority ought to deter single nurturing and early terminations and that fighting extremist Islam ought to be key to US international strategy.

Kumar by and by supported previous President Donald Trump’s position on prohibitive migration as well as his arrangements to construct a wall along the US-Mexico line.

Moderate arguments are additionally simple to recognize on the sites of gatherings like HinduPACT, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Hinduvesha, American Hindus Against Defamation (AHAD) and the VHPA. These are generally joined by analysis of American dissidents.

All of this filled in as the setting for Indian Top state leader Narendra Modi’s manly relationship with Trump, broadcast to the world through two uber rallies they kept intact – one in Houston, Texas in 2019, and the other in Ahmedabad, India in 2020.

At the point when numerous US administrators, particularly in the Progressive alliance, were raising worries about the Indian government’s for the time being repudiation of Kashmir’s naturally ensured semi-independent status, Trump and his organization stayed unflinching in their help for Modi.

The legend of ‘merit’

No place does this moderate conjunction appear as obviously as it does in training. The equals between the resistance to governmental policy regarding minorities in society from Hindutva bunches like HinduPACT and the feeling against station based training shares in India among numerous upper-position Hindus are striking.

In the two cases, this is situated as a fight for supposed merit – pandering to casteist and bigoted sayings to recommend that recipients of governmental policy regarding minorities in society or quantities are less meriting school seats. Disregarded, again in the two examples, are the long stretches of foundational treachery and oppression minorities, particularly African Americans, in the US and against individuals from lower positions in India, which makes any thought of a level battleground negligible.

In India, the people who contend against position based governmental policy regarding minorities in society appear to have acquired from the conservative idea of “turn around bigotry”, frequently heard in the US, when they contend that any reservations and portions for lower standings lead to “switch separation” or “converse casteism” against meriting understudies.

However, they seldom notice or recognize the uncontrolled rank based segregation as well as regular badgering and vilification looked by lower-standing understudies in establishments of advanced education, driving some like PhD researcher and Dalit dissident Rohith Chakravarthi Vemula to end their own life. In his splitting letter, he composed: ” My introduction to the world is my deadly mishap.”

In the US, this works out in the utilization by Hindutva gatherings of the Indian-American people group’s “model minority” picture to contend that it doesn’t need or need the help that other ethnic and racial minorities need.

In this, they advantageously conflate Hindu Americans and Indian Americans. The RHC promotes the way that Indian Americans have the “most noteworthy middle family pay” of every single ethnic gathering, are least subject to government support and have among the most elevated levels of training.

In an infographic on the “Direction of Hindus in America”, HinduPACT transfers a comparative message, adding that, “Indians skirted the ‘ghetto stage’ normal to most foreigner stories”.

However, following the High Court controlling, a Seat overview uncovered that most Indian Americans believed governmental policy regarding minorities in society to be something to be thankful for. Hindutva bunches have plainly fizzled, up to this point, to persuade them in any case.

In numerous ways, however, US governmental issues is the genuine objective these gatherings are hoping to impact and the point is to safeguard the interests of Hindu patriots in India.

‘Hinduphobia’

Diaspora Hindu patriots have lately attempted to contend that Hindus are the casualties of broad and foundational separation, strict contempt, disgrace, slander and destructive savagery. The VHPA’s “Hinduvesha” drive blames significant colleges for developing “a biological system of researchers, funders, and diaries to sustain Hinduphobic grant”.

Hindutva bunches venture to such an extreme as to look at the segregation Hindus supposedly face universally with the defamation and abuse looked by Jews in Europe before the Holocaust.

On its site, HinduPACT contends that scrutinizing Hinduism for standing based separation is additionally proof of Hinduphobia. Hindutva bunches have gone against bills to boycott standing separation in California and the Seattle City Chamber, calling them Hinduphobic and claiming that the regulation would build dangers of harassing and viciousness looked by Indian Americans in schools and work environments.

Furthermore, after the St Paul City Chamber passed a goal in 2020 that was reproachful of the Modi government’s citizenship regulation changes which victimize Muslim refuge searchers, the VHPA gave an assertion saying that “the genuine motivation behind this goal is to make scorn for Hindus and individuals of Indian beginning dwelling in Minneapolis – St. Paul region”.

As a result, any analysis of the Modi government’s strategies in India is considered Hinduphobic in the US by these gatherings.

A risky future?

The impacts of this mission by Hindutva gatherings – against legislators, scholastics and ordinary residents went against to them – are apparent.

In 2019, after an article uncovered the developing impact of Hindu majoritarian governmental issues in the US, Ro Khanna, a Popularity based representative from Silicon Valley, tweeted: ” It’s the obligation of each and every American lawmaker of Hindu confidence to represent pluralism, reject Hindutva, and represent equivalent freedoms for Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists and Christians”.

Assaults on him were prompt and relentless. After four years, Khanna seems to have mellowed. As a matter of fact, in the number one spot up to Modi’s visit to the US recently, he wrote a “bipartisan letter calling for Modi to address a joint seating of Congress”. He supported his choice to do as such by demanding that “the method for gaining ground on common liberties is to draw in with the Indian PM”.

In the midst of strain from Hindutva activists, the language of the California position segregation bill was likewise altered. Rather than position being a different class under the state’s non-segregation regulation as was initially planned, it was currently characterized as a “safeguarded class under the bigger umbrella of ‘lineage'”.

Hostile to charge activists praised this weakened form as a triumph, however the bill’s defenders demand the substance of the regulation remaining parts unaltered.

These are indications of a hazardous invasion of Hindu patriotism in American legislative issues.

Back in India, this philosophy has savagely separated a country and battered its majority rule government. Presently it’s adjusting itself against civil rights – whether on governmental policy regarding minorities in society or standing based separation – in the US, while attempting to menace pundits of the Indian government into quietness.

This is presently not simply India’s concern. It’s America’s as well.

How The World Fell For The Sari

The ancient sari is having a moment in the Western world. It began with actor Zendaya wearing a shimmering hand-embroidered blue sari gown and embellished bralette to a gala night at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Culture Centre in Mumbai in April. The bespoke outfit — which took 3000 hours to make — was designed by Rahul Mishra, the first Indian couturier to show on the official schedule at Paris Haute Couture Week in 2020. The piece inspired a blush and silver version shown at Mishra’s couture show in Paris last month.

Picture : TheUNN

At the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, Bollywood star Deepika Padukone made several best-dressed lists in a glittering black and gold sari from Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Then in May, the garment made appearances at the 2023 Met Gala — when model Naomi Campbell wore an archival pink sari-inspired dress by Chanel dating back to 2010 — and at Windsor Castle for celebrations marking King Charles III’s coronation, where businesswoman Natasha Poonawalla teamed a nude sheer sari with a Burberry body suit.

Now, the dress is being spotlighted further in a landmark show at London’s Design Museum. Running through September 17, “The Offbeat Sari” marks the first time an international museum has staged a show based solely on the historic drape.

Dating back to around 3,000 BC, saris traditionally consist of a single strip of unstitched cloth (conventionally between three and nine yards long), which can be draped — legend has it — in a hundred ways. While the art of draping is traditionally passed down from mother to daughter, today there are plenty of “how-to” videos available online exploring less conventional takes and even simple pre-stitched versions available to buy which eliminate the need for draping altogether.

Picture : CNN

The garment remains one of the bestselling clothing items in India, widely worn both in rural communities and urban societies, though it’s typically donned for special events and during religious occasions. Its uniform shape and generosity of size makes the sari the ultimate one-size-fits-all outfit — morphing to fit any wearer. Often being made from cotton silk, saris are affordable, too — cotton silk saris usually retail across India for the equivalent of a few dollars. (Although then there’s the most expensive sari ever made, which cost 3,931,627 Indian Rupees — almost $100,000 — and weighed 18lb after it was hand-embellished for over 4670 hours with precious stones.)

Selected and arranged by the Design Museum’s head of curation, Priya Khanchandani, “The Offbeat Sari” presents over 60 garments, many on loan from weavers, artists and Indian designers including Mishra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Amit Aggarwal. It aims to showcase how the sari exists as both a functional piece and as a symbol of female empowerment and activism, and examine recent experimentations with the style among emancipated South Asian women in the social media age.

These are people as diverse as the Gulabi Gang — a group of women in rural north India who took to wearing pink saris while protesting against domestic violence — to Gen Z figures such as Delhi-based Eshna Kutty, a dance artist who shares videos of herself hula-hooping in a sari, and actress and Instagram sensation Urfi Javed, whose customized styles push the boundaries of the sari and often polarize public opinion.

Giving an ancient garment new life

The Offbeat Sari exhibition also shines a light on the growing technicalities involved in the creation of the garment. While woven materials such as silk, cotton or polyester are still popular and commonly used, newer designers such as Rimzim Dadu are pushing the boundaries of textiles, using ultra fine metal threads, for example, to repurpose heirloom saris. This new take also brings modernity into the weaving traditions of India. “The sari is experiencing what is conceivably its most rapid reinvention in its 5000-year history,” said Khanchandani in the press release that accompanied the Design Museum show. “It makes the movement one of today’s most important global fashion stories, yet little is known of its true nature beyond South Asia.”

While saris have also been popular with celebrities — think Madonna at the VH1 Vogue fashion awards show in 1998, Lady Gaga in a Tarun Tahiliani white sari gown adorned with Swarovski crystals in 2011 (currently on display in the Design Museum’s show) and Dua Lipa while on vacation in Jaipur, India in 2018 — some instances have attracted criticism.

In a piece titled “The grey area between cultural appropriation and appreciation,” Vogue India called out Sarah Jessica Parker for her usage of the term “sari” during the 2022 Diwali episode of Sex and the City spin-off “And Just Like That.” The garment she wore was not a sari at all but a lehenga (a three-piece outfit with a stitched skirt rather than a draped garment).

The Black girls reclaiming alternative fashion

Similarly, Gwen Stefani sparked controversy for her penchant for wearing bindis and saris in the 1990s. In 2022, Stefani once again donned a sari to attend the 90th annual Christmas celebrations at the Rockefeller Center in New York — but on this occasion, the pre-stitched plisse number by Mumbai-based designer Amit Aggarwal was welcomed by much of the fashion community within India.

“It was extremely gratifying to see Stefani in our outfit,” Aggarwal told CNN during a telephone interview. “It gave us an opportunity to showcase the work of our craftsmen and our innovative techniques with the form on such a large platform.”

Aggarwal believes the sari has already gone international. “It isn’t bound by borders or rules and has found love across the globe,” he said. “Its versatility and amorphous nature make it a piece of clothing to be worn in multiple ways simply by draping it differently. (The sari) should no longer be ‘offbeat’ or something ‘exotic’ but mainstream. I think it’s beautiful to find people appreciating and embracing pieces of other cultures and blurring borders to make the world an even smaller place.”

Designer Rimzim Dadu agreed. “Experimentation is the basic need of humanity. Someone, somewhere thousands of years ago decided to experiment with five yards of fabric to see how it could be draped and the sari was born,” she told CNN via email. “It went through thousands of iterations over the years, so I would say both conservation and experimentation (with the sari) are extremely important as long as there is mutual respect for both.”

A history of inspiration

Dr. Phyllida Jay, anthropologist and author of the book “Inspired by India,” points out that internationally recognized designers from French couturier Madame Grès to Jean Paul Gaultier and Elie Saab have historically drawn inspiration from the garment. “My book tried to trace the ways the sari informed design innovation across the 20th century,” she said. While some did look at the sari as simply exotic or costume-like, Dr. Jay said designers who respect the garment and take time to understand the technical aspects of draping create the best international interpretations — take Cristobal Balenciaga’s sari gown, made famous by Elizabeth Taylor, or Gianfranco Ferré’s sari-inspired spiraling shirt dress.

In Mayfair, London’s luxury shopping district, the Indian multi-brand retailer Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop stocks the collections of around 50 Indian designers. Its owner, Abhishek Agarwal, told CNN that it’s not only the Indian diaspora purchasing saris from his store, but international shoppers too.

“Our vision has always been to make Indian fashion go international and provide a global platform for our country’s ground-breaking design industry,” he said. “The silhouette can easily transcend borders and cultures.”

Whether it is on the streets of Mumbai and Delhi, red carpets of New York, the galleries of London or the catwalks of Paris, admiration of the sari is only becoming more widespread.

“With India’s increasing political and economic power, its cultural prowess also will be accepted,” Delhi-based textile designer, Gaurav Jai Gupta told CNN in an email interview, adding: “I would love to see more people all over the world wear the sari.” Whether his wish will come true, only time will tell.

The Magnificent Belur Temple: A Timeless Legacy of Karnataka’s Hoysala Dynasty

The renowned Belur Temple, also referred to as the Chennakesava Temple, stands as a testament to Karnataka’s rich heritage, located in the district of Hassan. Constructed in the early 12th century by Hoysala ruler Vishnuvardhana, under the architectural guidance of the Hoysala dynasty, the temple remains a magnificent relic of bygone grandeur. Nestled in the historic town of Belur, which once served as the Hoysala kingdom’s capital, the temple continues to attract enthusiasts from across the nation, offering them a chance to marvel at intricate sculptures and artistic brilliance while experiencing a spiritual elevation.

Historical Splendor of Chennakesava Temple, Belur

The temple’s historical significance is intricately linked to the military triumphs of King Vishnuvardhana, who commissioned its construction in 1117 AD. During this era, the king engaged in numerous battles against the Western Chalukyas and successfully vanquished the Cholas. Architects and artisans involved in the temple’s creation showcased unparalleled skill, introducing innovative designs that would later become emblematic of the temple complex.

Architectural Marvels within the Chennakesava Temple Complex

Among the iconic landmarks of Hassan, the Belur Temple was conceived to embody architectural excellence emblematic of the Hoysala kingdom. As one enters the premises, the gaze is met by the grand Rajagopura, a monumental gateway arching overhead. The central masterpiece of the temple, oriented towards the east, is a sight to behold, encapsulating divine architectural forms.

To the right of the main temple stands the Kappe Channigraya temple, accompanied by a smaller structure dedicated to Goddess Sowmyanayaki, an incarnation of Lakshmi. Slightly behind these stands the Chennakesava Temple, while the Ranganayaki Temple graces its right-hand side. Within the temple complex, two ornate pillars draw attention, one featuring a Garuda (constructed during the Vijayanagara period) and the other adorned with a lamp (hailing from the Hoysala era).

Astonishing Architecture of Chennakesava Temple, Belur

Rising to a towering height of 37 meters, the temple’s exterior walls are adorned with meticulously crafted depictions of dancing women, reflecting unparalleled finesse. Crafted from soapstone according to Hoysala architectural blueprints, the temple boasts intricate detailing. Its early construction within the Hoysala dynasty sets it apart from contemporaneous structures, showcasing an unmatched scale.

Artistry Within Chennakesava Temple, Belur

Within the temple, the stunning pillars serve as a canvas for exquisite sculptures and artwork, captivating visitors with their finesse. The Narasimha pillar is a celebrated centerpiece, among a total of 48 pillars, each uniquely carved and adorned with artistic marvels. Four pillars at the center feature hand-chiseled celestial damsels, or madanikas, capturing diverse poses that enthrall tourists, visitors, and art enthusiasts who grace the temple.

As visitors explore the temple, they encounter depictions and references to significant events from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, enhancing their understanding of the sculptures’ narratives. The temple walls also exhibit depictions of animals such as elephants, lions, and horses.

Intricate Sculptures and Historical Narratives

The main entrance of the mantapa showcases a Hoysala king triumphing over a tiger or lion, symbolizing the victory over the Cholas, with the tiger representing their royal emblem. The temple complex boasts an array of intriguing sculptures, including Gajasurasamhara depicting Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga slaying Mahishasura, and depictions of Ravana, among others. Mini shrines positioned at the entrance add to the allure, while the signatures of various artists offer glimpses into life during the Hoysala era.

Belur Temple: A 900-Year-Old Marvel

The Chennakesava Temple at Belur stands as a remarkable testament to architectural prowess and cultural innovation, an embodiment of Karnataka’s history under the Hoysala dynasty. Recently, this ancient marvel, now 900 years old, celebrated its enduring presence, marking a momentous occasion in the annals of Karnataka’s history. Nestled along the banks of the River Yagachi, the temple’s majestic presence continues to remind visitors of the indomitable legacy of South India’s mighty kingdom.

In conclusion, the Belur Temple, or Chennakesava Temple, remains an awe-inspiring embodiment of Karnataka’s rich history and the architectural brilliance of the Hoysala dynasty. With its intricate sculptures, historical narratives, and timeless charm, this temple complex stands as a testament to the region’s cultural legacy and enduring allure.

Kailasha Temple: Unravelling the Wonders of the World’s Largest Monolithic Marvel

In the heart of India, within the ancient and mystical land of Ellora, lies a monument that defies both time and imagination – the Kailasha Temple. With a colossal monolith structure hewn from the very rock it stands upon, this architectural wonder has captivated the world with its grandeur, complexity, and the enigmatic techniques employed to shape it. Emerging from the depths of history, the Kailasha Temple is more than a mere temple; it is an awe-inspiring testament to the ingenuity of ancient artisans and engineers who left behind a legacy that continues to astonish.

A Monumental Feat of Engineering and Devotion

The Kailasha Temple stands as a testament to human endeavor, a massive monolith carved out of the Charanandri Hills. Comprising over 200,000 tons of rock, this monumental structure is an intriguing enigma that leaves visitors and experts alike in awe. The precision and intricacy of its construction have sparked fascination, questioning how such a remarkable creation was achieved with the tools and technology available during its time of inception.

The Unveiling of an Architectural Mystery

The monolithic rock-cut temple is adorned with intricately carved sculptures and ornate reliefs, showcasing remarkable attention to detail. From top to bottom, the temple emerges as a sublime harmony of artistry and engineering, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. It’s a sacred ode to Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, that draws pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and architectural connoisseurs from around the world.

Carving Through Time: The Tale of Creation

The true marvel of the Kailasha Temple lies not only in its grandeur but in the mystery of how it was sculpted. The process of carving this monolithic temple involves the removal of enormous volumes of rock. Historians and archaeologists have pondered over the techniques used by ancient craftsmen to transform a solid rock into a breathtaking temple complex. Speculations range from chiseling to intricate drilling, with debates continuing to this day.

Unraveling the Techniques of the Ancients

Delving into the techniques employed in the creation of the Kailasha Temple reveals a remarkable blend of art, science, and sheer determination. It is believed that the artisans and engineers harnessed the power of chisels, hammers, and even crude yet effective drilling mechanisms to meticulously carve and shape the rock. Water channels were strategically designed to facilitate carving, while the use of scaffolding and ramps assisted in the complex task of sculpting the intricate details that grace the temple’s facade.

A Spiritual Odyssey and Architectural Marvel

For pilgrims and travelers, the Kailasha Temple is not just a destination; it’s a spiritual odyssey. The act of traversing through the intricately carved corridors and marveling at the colossal sculptures evokes a sense of divine connection and awe. From the magnificent Nandi statue guarding the entrance to the intricately adorned pillars and sanctums, every facet of the temple exudes devotion and reverence.

Legacy Across Millennia

The Kailasha Temple’s legacy extends beyond its physical presence; it is a window into the cultural, religious, and artistic tapestry of ancient India. The temple’s creation is attributed to the Rashtrakuta king Krishna I, who ruled during the 8th century. His vision and devotion led to the manifestation of this unparalleled wonder, which continues to inspire and captivate to this day.

A Living Testament of Human Endeavor

As the largest monolithic structure in the world, the Kailasha Temple stands as a beacon of human endeavor and artistic brilliance. Its intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, evoking a sense of spiritual contemplation. The temple’s creation not only testifies to the architectural prowess of ancient artisans but also serves as a tribute to their unwavering devotion and dedication.

Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

In the modern age, the Kailasha Temple remains a living relic, a reminder of the marvels that human hands can craft. Preservation efforts, combined with advancements in technology, enable a new generation to appreciate and explore this architectural gem. As historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts continue to study its construction, the Kailasha Temple offers insights into the remarkable capabilities of ancient civilizations.

A Journey Through Time and Stone

Visiting the Kailasha Temple is more than a physical journey; it’s a voyage through time and space. The awe-inspiring grandeur of the monolithic marvel leaves an indelible mark on all who stand before it. As the sun’s rays illuminate its intricacies and the winds carry the whispers of history, the temple beckons travelers to witness a fusion of devotion, artistry, and engineering that transcends the ages.

The Kailasha Temple is an architectural marvel that defies comprehension, standing as a testament to human ingenuity and devotion. Carved from solid rock, this monolithic wonder continues to captivate the world, offering a glimpse into the remarkable achievements of ancient artisans. As visitors gaze upon its grandeur and contemplate the mysteries of its creation, the Kailasha Temple stands as a bridge between past and present, inspiring awe and reverence in equal measure.

India Day Parade Celebrates Indian Spirituality, Art, Cinema, and Women

The 41st India Day Parade in New York City, organized by The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), witnessed a remarkable convergence of Indian creativity, empowerment, spirituality, and art, with the notable participation of two exceptional women: Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji, a revered Indian spiritual leader, and Neha Lohia, an award-winning and acclaimed filmmaker. Notable figures like Grammy Award-winning singer Falu Shah and Bollywood actresses Jacquline Fernandes and Samantha Ruth Prabhu also graced the event. This year’s parade celebrated the rich tapestry of Indian culture, tradition, and heritage while highlighting the influential role of women on the global India stage.

Promoting Indian culture globally and established in 1970, The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) has played a pivotal role in uniting the Indian diaspora in the Northeastern United States. The India Day Parade, widely regarded as the largest parade outside India, brings thousands of Indian Americans together for an extraordinary cultural extravaganza in the heart of New York City.

Picture : TheUNN

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji, known for her transformative journey from Hollywood to the Himalayas, expressed her joy at being part of this celebration: “It’s been such a great blessing to live in India for the last 27 years, on the banks of Mother Ganga, and for my life journey to move both physically and spiritually from Hollywood to the Himalayas. Indian culture, teachings, traditions, sanskriti, and sanskaras are not only relevant to the people born on the land of India but also to individuals from every culture and country. This parade beautifully showcases the universality and gifts of our Indian culture and traditions, available for the whole world to embrace.”

Spirituality and Artistry were in Harmony on this day. The parade was meticulously planned, seamlessly blending Indian spirituality, arts, cinema, culture, music, dance, cuisine, and the message of inner peace. Filmmaker Neha Lohia, known for her heart-centered narratives, shared her deep feelings: “It was a profound experience to stand alongside Sadhviji, nestled in the serene Himalayas, while I represent the vibrant creativity of Hollywood. Witnessing and showcasing India’s enduring legacy of transformation, devotion, integrity, and strength through storytelling, cinema, culture, music, and spirituality at the 41st India Day parade was a true honor.”

Neha Lohia, a versatile filmmaker, brings an Eastern perspective to her work in the USA, with a focus on women-oriented subjects and consciousness-raising projects. With over two decades of storytelling experience in advertising, Hollywood, and Bollywood, she continues to create inspiring content.

Additionally, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji and Neha Lohia were warmly greeted by Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs and former Deputy Comptroller of Minority Affairs in Nassau County, New York.

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji, a Spiritual Beacon based in Rishikesh, India, is a world-renowned spiritual leader, motivational speaker, and social activist. Her profound spiritual journey spans over 25 years, from Los Angeles to the banks of the sacred Ganga River. She is the Secretary-General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, President of the Divine Shakti Foundation, and Co-President of Religions for Peace. Her teachings bridge the gap between Western knowledge and Eastern spirituality, making her a global spiritual ambassador.

Sadhvi Ji’s work extends to international platforms, where she shares her wisdom with luminaries such as HH the Dalai Lama, Prince Charles, and world leaders. She has received numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from U.S. President Joe Biden for her lifelong commitment to volunteer service. Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati Ji continues to oversee humanitarian projects, teach meditation, lecture, write, counsel individuals and families, and serve as a unique female voice of spiritual leadership, inspiring people in India and around the world.

The 41st India Day Parade in New York showcased the indomitable spirit of Indian creativity, empowerment, spirituality, and artistry, reminding the world that the essence of India serves as a beacon of inspiration for all.

Honoring India’s Richness: A Celebration of Hidden Travel Wonders

As India eagerly approaches its 77th Independence Day, it is essential to pay tribute to the multitude of treasures that the country holds and to remember the sacrifices made by our predecessors who valiantly protected the legacy that has led us to this momentous juncture. What better way to achieve this than by delving into India’s lesser-explored travel marvels, thus commemorating our nation’s independence? In pursuit of this goal, the Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with the travel platform MakeMyTrip to unveil over 600 remarkable destinations that demand exploration.

This endeavor has given rise to an innovative platform known as the ‘Traveller’s Map of India’ microsite, specifically tailored to help travel enthusiasts uncover concealed tourism gems according to their preferences. Crafted by MakeMyTrip, this microsite seamlessly aligns with the ideals of the Indian Government’s ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative.

In a press release, G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister of Tourism, Culture, and DoNER, conveyed his appreciation for MakeMyTrip’s endeavor to highlight the diverse destinations within India and to stimulate domestic tourism. He extended an invitation for more such endeavors, underlining the collective aspiration to showcase the nation to the global audience.

The compilation of this travel selection was curated by the travel company through an examination of India’s travel search history. Based on this foundation, destinations that are relatively unknown and confined to specific pockets of the country were chosen. To simplify the process for travelers, these destinations have been categorized with tags like adventure, wildlife, heritage, mountains, beaches, and more, allowing them to choose their preferred genre of exploration.

Picture : Live Science

Rajesh Magow, co-founder and group CEO of MakeMyTrip, expressed his thoughts on this initiative, highlighting how the ‘Traveller’s Map of India’ resonates with the desires of nearly every Indian traveler. He emphasized its fitting commemoration of August 15th and MakeMyTrip’s continuous advocacy for India’s diverse tourism offerings. The intent behind the initiative is to encourage each Indian to become an advocate for the country’s cultural, historical, natural, and geographical wonders. Magow conveyed gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism for its support, which bolsters MakeMyTrip’s mission to position India as the foremost sought-after global tourism destination.

Furthermore, this initiative, as stated in the release, not only acknowledges the potential of domestic tourism as a potent instrument for socio-economic development but also directly contributes to the multifaceted expansion of India’s economy.

For those unfamiliar, ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ stands as a government initiative designed to invigorate domestic tourism across the nation. Through endeavors like these, India’s rich tapestry of hidden travel wonders comes to the forefront, serving as a testament to the multifaceted celebrations of the nation’s 77th Independence Day.

19th Annual Saraswathi Awards Festival Announced

The 19th annual Saraswati Awards will be held on September 16 at the Tyson Center, 26 Tyson Ave, Floral Park, New York 11001, Jojo Thomas, President of Saraswathy Awards announced here.

The Saraswati Awards was founded with the objective of promoting music and dance among the children of Indian origin growing up in America.

Competitions will be held in classical music, music in Indian languages, Bharatanatyam and folk dance.

The age group from 5 years to 15 years is divided into Pre-Junior, Sub-Junior and Junior categories.

Music and Dance students interested in participating in the competition should register in advance.

Please contact for more information via Email: [email protected]

India Plans World’s Largest Museum In Delhi

In New Delhi, the world’s largest museum will soon open. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a speech at the opening of the convention center at Pragati Maidan. He talked about the idea for the museum called “Yuge Yugeen Bharat,” which will show India’s rich and varied history.

Talking at the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) perplexing, the State leader said, “Soon, there will be the world’s greatest historical center in the Public Capital. Imagine something amazing, think beyond practical boundaries and act enormous.”

Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum

The Sanskrit name “Yuge Yugeen Bharat” means “never-ending India” in English. It catches the everlasting person of the nation’s set of experiences.

The public historical center will be worked out of the ongoing North Block and South Block structures, as per Times Now. The notable blocks were built by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Cook during the 1930s and have long filled in as the center of Indian administration.

The Prime Minister’s Office, the External Affairs Ministry, and the Defence Ministry are situated in the South Block, while the  Finance Ministry and the Home Ministry are located in the North Block.

The public authority made arrangements to transform the North and South Blocks into exhibition halls in 2021.

One-stop objective for India’s rich culture and history

The exhibition hall would have 950 rooms spread over a cellar, ground floor, and two additional accounts, covering 1.17 lakh square meters of room. The design will house various “khands,” or divisions, that follow the improvement of 5000+ year of Indian civilisation.

Its design emphasizes not only the splendor of Indian history’s various epochs but also the country’s vibrant cultures, animals, and plants.

Picture : Kumparan

As indicated by Swarajya Magazine, the exhibition hall will archive the scholarly and creative achievements of ancient India, the Indus Valley Civilisation, the Vedic period, and India’s top colleges like Takshashila and Nalanda. The Maurya, Gupta, Pandya, Pallav, Chola, Kushans, Kashmir, and Rashtrakut administrations who kept up with exchanging associations with countries like Rome and Greece, will likewise be featured. Huge realms like the Rashtrakutas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, and Palas will likewise get a decent lot of support during the time spent making a country. The bravery of the Rajputs, the Mughal era, the Sultanate, the British Empire, and India’s struggle for independence.

The engineering entryways will open to show the unmistakable metallurgical custom of the country’s verifiable social classes, for example, the extraction of zinc in Zawar, Rajasthan, the magazine said in a report. A whole floor will be dedicated to the old Sindhi-Saraswati civilisation, with a fixation on areas like Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, and Lothal.

A section will likewise be committed to the changed fauna and plants of the country, which have contributed fundamentally to shaping the way of life of the locale and are subsequently still worshipped vigorously now. The collectorate will also have the nation’s sacred peethas and temples to preserve the holy heritage.

The fifth part of the historical center will be committed to the fights that the progressives battled to win all through the very long term English occupation to liberate their country from unfamiliar abuse. The Sannyasi insurrection in Bengal in 1770, in which Sadhus rebelled against the oppressive government, and the Indian Revolt in 1857, in which some Indians attempted to overthrow the East India Company completely, are two instances of this.

The last segment will then stress the battle for social liberties, logical turns of events, and other huge realities like the thought behind the ongoing Indian constitution. Individuals like CV Raman, HJ Bhabha, and JC Bose will go about as good examples for our nation’s rising gifts.

The gallery will likewise feature India’s commitments to math, science, and innovation. Stressing the commitments of Vallabhbhai Patel, Dr BR Ambedkar, and Mahatma Gandhi, the top state leader said that historical centers will currently interestingly perceive ancestral autonomy warriors.

“The redevelopment of Mahaparinirvana Sthal of Dr BR Ambedkar into a National Memorial at 5, Alipore Street in Delhi (is in progress)… alongside the improvement of Panch Teerth connected with his life, in Mhow where he was conceived, in London where he resided, in Nagpur where he took commencement, and the Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai where his Samadhi exists today,” he expressed, as per Hindustan Times.

The Indian chief went on by saying that the galleries will likewise give a connoisseur experience, reporting many years of Indian history connected with Ayurveda and millets, which are as of now turning into a worldwide pattern. He argued that museums should actively support the preservation of resources for future generations. It is encouraging to observe that younger generations are drawn to these museums, which are becoming destinations and potential places of employment.

For anyone inquisitive about the set of experiences and culture of the country, the exhibition hall will act as a one-stop objective.

240 recovered objects

PM Modi also emphasized during his speech at Pragati Maidan that the destruction of libraries and manuscripts during hundreds of years of slavery resulted in the loss of a significant portion of the territory’s heritage. He underscored that the misfortune impacted India as well as the worldwide social inheritance in general. He likewise censured India’s post-autonomy government for neglecting to do whatever it takes to reestablish and safeguard the nation’s for some time failed to remember social legacy.

“We must be grounded previously yet work for what’s to come. We need to respect our inheritance, as we work to make a superior and more promising time to come,” he said.

The  Prime Minister communicated his fulfillment that different countries had begun returning bits of Indian history, which mirrored India’s rising global standing. In the past nine years, he claims, more than 240 ancient artifacts have been discovered and returned to India.

He likewise featured a significant decrease in social relic carrying from India during this period and encouraged craftsmanship devotees and historical center experts overall to improve joint effort in this space, focusing on the significance of guaranteeing that no work of art got unscrupulously tracks down a spot in any gallery. The Prime Minister concluded by promising to create a new legacy while preserving India’s past.

World’s ongoing biggest gallery

With north of 73,000 square meters of display region, the Louver in Paris, France, is presently the biggest historical center.

It is home to the absolute most notable bits of craftsmanship in the whole world, like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

The exhibition hall, which is situated in the focal point of Paris, is coordinated into eight divisions, each showing craftsmanship from an alternate time span. These offices incorporate Traditional Ancient pieces, Archaic and Renaissance Craftsmanship, Current and Contemporary Workmanship, Ornamental Expressions, Prints and Drawings, Islamic Workmanship, and Egyptian Artifacts. The Louvre has attracted art enthusiasts from all over the world for centuries.

Asia Society Museum Presents Buddha, Sage of the Shakya Clan

Asia Society Museum presents a selection of 15 masterworks from the Asia Society’s renowned Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, depicting the “Eight Great Events” from the life of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha.

Works in the exhibition date from the second to eighteenth centuries and represent some of the finest examples of Buddhist art, drawn from the Asia Society’s Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection.

Buddhism, founded in India the late sixth century B.C.E., has assumed many different forms but generally draws from the life experiences of the Buddha, his teachings, and the “spirit” or “essence” of his teachings, (dharma), as models for religious life.

While the actual life events of the Buddha are not well documented, there are several legendary stories about significant moments in his life, which became codified in a visual language by around 100 AD. This exhibition is anchored by an illuminated manuscript from the great Indian Buddhist monastic learning center, Nalanda, depicting the “Eight Great Events” around which these legendary stories are centered, including:

  • The Buddha’s princely birth as the son of King Suddhodana and Queen Maya of the Shakya warrior clan
  • His defeat over the demon Mara and attainment of enlightenment
  • The first turning of the wheel of dharma at Sarnath, representing the teaching of the Four Noble Truths
  • Performing of miracles at Sravasti
  • Descending from the heaven of thirty-three gods (Trayastrimsha Heaven) after preaching to the gods and his mother
  • Taming the wild elephant Nagiri
  • Receiving the loyal monkey’s gift of honey leading to the its rebirth as an enlightened being
  • His death and attainment of parinirvana

The scenes illustrated in the exhibition began to appear by the second century in Mathura, in modern-day Uttar Pradesh, India, and within the Buddhist centers of the Gandharan Kingdom, areas in modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Several of the works in the exhibition just returned from a multivenue tour to New Orleans, LA; Jacksonville, FL; Chapel Hill, NC; Fort Worth, TX, and A Coruña, Spain, as part of the enthusiastically received exhibition Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon.

The exhibition is curated by Laura Weinstein, John H. Foster Associate Curator, Pre-Modern Art, Asia Society.

Buddha, Sage of the Shakya Clan is on view at Asia Society Museum in New York from June 13–August 27, 2023. Find out more and plan your visit at AsiaSociety.org/NY

Pope Francis Puts His Stamp On Church’s Future With New Cardinals

Pope Francis on July 9th reported that he would raise 21 churchmen to the high position of cardinal, again putting his imprint on the gathering that will one day pick his replacement after his passing or renunciation.

The 86-year-old Pontiff announced that the installation ceremony, known as a consistory, would take place on September 30. Since being elected as the first pontiff from Latin America ten years ago, this will be the ninth consistory called by the pope.

The new cardinals come from nations including the US, Italy, Argentina, Switzerland, South Africa, Spain, Colombia, South Sudan, Hong Kong, Poland, Malaysia, Tanzania, and Portugal. Eighteen of the 21 are under the age of 80, so they will be able to attend a secret conclave to select the next pope. They are known as cardinal balloters.

All cardinals, no matter what their age, are permitted to participate in pre-conference gatherings, known as Broad Assemblies, giving them a say in the sort of individual they figure the more youthful cardinals ought to pick.

In the Church hierarchy, Cardinals are second only to the Pope and his closest advisors. Because of their authentic power and impact, they are as yet called the sovereigns of the Congregation, despite the fact that Francis has told them not to live like sovereignty and to be near poor people.

There will be 137 cardinal electors following the consistory in September, with approximately 73% of them selected by Francis. This expands the likelihood that the next pope will share his vision of a more moderate, comprehensive Church.

Francis has likewise expanded the likelihood that the next pope will come from Asia or Africa, having reliably named cardinal balloters from those mainland and giving less significance than his predecessors to nations in Europe.

Three of the new cardinals were as of late named as heads of significant Vatican divisions, including Argentine Ecclesiastical overseer Victor Manuel Fernandez, top of the Vatican’s doctrinal division.

Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-Yan of Hong Kong was the recipient of an additional significant appointment. Chow is one of the significant connections to the Catholic Church in socialist China, where the Vatican is attempting to further develop conditions for Catholics. In April, the bishop went to Beijing.

Another is American Archbishop Robert Francis Prevost, who was recently elevated to head of the Vatican department that assists the pope in selecting new bishops, one of the most powerful positions within the Vatican.

Washington D.C. Includes Sikhism in Social Studies Standards

The newly adopted social studies standards will be implemented in local schools starting from the 2024-2025 academic year. The District of Columbia State Board of Education recently made a decision to incorporate Sikhism into the new social studies curriculum in schools. With this development, Washington, D.C. becomes one of the 17 states that have incorporated accurate information about Sikhs into their social studies standards for public schools.

The decision is part of the Sikh Coalition’s multi-year campaign, which aims to provide accurate information on Sikhism to public school students across the United States. According to a release, approximately 49,800 students in the state will now have the

The new standards, voted on by the District of Columbia State Board of Education on June 21, will give approximately 49,800 students the opportunity to learn about the Sikh community. The new standards will be implemented in local schools starting from the 2024-2025 academic year. The Sikh Coalition, which worked with local education authorities on this issue, said the District of Columbia joins 17 states across the nation to include accurate information about Sikhs in their public school social studies standards. “We are thrilled that the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education has chosen to ensure that the Sikh community is represented and included in their standards,” said Harman Singh, Sikh Coalition senior education manager.

“Inclusive and accurate standards are an important first step to combat bigotry and to reduce bullying, and they benefit all students by increasing baseline cultural competency and decreasing ignorance,” Singh said. Earlier in April, the US State of Virginia voted in favour of new social studies standards to include Sikhi, or the Sikh faith, in the school curriculum for the first time ever. Sikhism is one of the largest religions in the world and the members of the community have contributed to American society for over 125 years in the fields of civil rights, politics, agriculture, engineering, and medicine.

US To Return 150 Antiquities To India

India’s Culture Secretary Govind Mohan, briefing reporters Sunday on the third G20 Culture Working Group meeting in Hampi, said this is the first lot of antiquities that the Met has willingly agreed to return to India.

These will be among the 150 antiquities that will return to India from the US in 3-6 months, he said, adding that besides the 15 objects returned by the Met, the others are those confiscated by US authorities and kept in the office of the New York Attorney General. “We are making efforts to have our team go there, verify them and bring them back,” Mohan said.

According to an investigation in March by The Indian Express, in association with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) and the UK-based Finance Uncovered, a treasure trove at the Met was traced to antique dealer Subhash Kapoor who is serving a prison term in Tamil Nadu for smuggling antiquities.

On March 30, the Met issued a statement saying it would “transfer 15 sculptures for return to the government of India, after having learned that the works were illegally removed from India”. It said “all of the works were sold at one point by Subhash Kapoor, a dealer currently serving a prison sentence in India.”

Of the 15 items listed in the search warrant, 10 were flagged in The Indian Express report. Significant among these are the Celestial Dancer, a 1st century BCE Yakshi terracotta from West Bengal; a bronze sculpture of God Revanta Returning from the Hunt (10th century CE); and a 15th century Parikara (Backplate).

The other works that are set to return to India include antiquities in different mediums such as marble, terracotta and sandstone, span a period of 1,600 years, from the 1st century BC to the 15th century AD, and hold significant historical and market value, officials said.

Restitution of cultural heritage is among the main themes of the cultural track under India’s G20 Presidency. The 1970 UNESCO Convention enjoins upon all the signatories to voluntarily return all the artefacts that have either been taken there due to colonial plunder or post-colonial misappropriation through smuggling, theft or other such means, Mohan said.

“The 1970 convention has been discussed extensively among all the countries and there are some countries who are not signatories so far. We are trying to develop a broad consensus that at least all the G20 countries become signatories to the convention. India would be a big gainer from this process,” he said.

Picture : Indian Express

India is pursuing agreements pertaining to the return of antiquities through both bilateral and multilateral routes. According to the Cultural Property Agreement signed between India and the US, which found mention in the joint statement after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State visit last month, “the US will do all that is within its power to intercept smuggled goods at the border and return them expeditiously”.

“With the US having accepted this kind of a framework, we are hopeful that the other countries will also look at something similar, if not identical,” Mohan said, adding that presently, India is pursuing bilaterally for such agreements with the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Australia.

As many as 50 delegates are attending the third CWG meeting, including those from member countries, guest nations and multilateral organisations. Progress has been made towards bridging opinions during deliberations and arriving at a consensus, Mohan said.

Jain Entrepreneurship And Innovation Conference Held In New Jersey

The New York Chapter of Jain International Trade Organization USA (jitousa.org), held a successful innovation and entrepreneurship conference on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the Jain Center of New Jersey.

More than 400 attendees from 20 states and 4 countries took part in the successful event, organizers said in a press release.

Some 20-plus industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and academic luminaries, explored the intersection of technology, business, and societal impact, sharing their knowledge and experience, and identified areas for socio-economic growth within the Jain community and the shared global community.

Rajeev Pandya, the JITO USA treasurer & New York Chapter chairperson and the organizer of the event discussed the journey of Jains in NY and the US, and how to continue fostering the Jain network.

Other speakers included Jigar Shah, coordinator of the event; keynote speakers Dr. Neeta Jain, founder and president of the International Ahimsa Foundation, and India’s Consul General Randhir Jaiswal who spoke on US-India relations.

The Keynote Speaker was Professor S.P. Kothari, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Other speakers from the organization included JITO APEX President Abhaya Srisrimal Jain, JITO APEX Secretary and Board Member Sanjay Lodha, JITO International Chairman Mahaveer Mehta, JITO USA Chairman Prem Jain, JITO USA President Dr. Sushil Jain, JITO USA Vice President Kamlesh Mehta, JITO USA Secretary Dipak Doshi and JITO USA Treasurer and New York Chapter Chairman Rajeev Pandya.

JITO USA President Dr. Sushil Jain spoke about the organization and its mission and purpose as well as its ambitions for expanding into several new chapters nationally.

Mukesh Chatter, the CEO of NeoNet, delivered an engaging technology keynote, focusing on the digital transformation currently revolutionizing industries worldwide.

The finance keynote, delivered by Rushabh Kapashi, Senior Partner at McKinsey, shed light on the changing landscape of the financial industry, and his personal journey and how Jain values have helped him in his professional career.

Chintu Patel, founder of Amneal Pharmaceuticals, shared his entrepreneurial journey and experience in the Healthcare/Pharma field. He emphasized the importance of ambition and personal conviction in his journey, shared his perspectives on healthcare innovation, research, and accessibility.

The conference also included interactive panel discussions. The technology panel, moderated by Kamlesh Mehta, founder, CTO, and VP of Engineering of nSolutions, focused on emerging trends and the pervasive growth of AI with panelists Prem Jain, CEO of Pensando, Sam S. Jain, founder and executive chairman of Fareportal (CheapOair and OneTravel), Shail Jain, founder of Foresight Ventures, and Yogendra Jain, CTO of Sonde Health.

The finance panel discussion was led by Apurva Shah, CTO of Launch Potato. Panelists were Naveen Shah, founder and CEO of Navika Group of Companies and Blue Sky Hospitality, Robin Shah, founder, partner & CIO of Tenor Capital Management, Anita Bafna, partner at Ernst & Young, and Saahill Desai, founder and director of DS Advisors.

The final panel discussion on healthcare and pharmaceuticals  highlighted the importance of affordability and innovation in the field. Moderator Dipak Doshi, CEO of Protocol Link, guided expert panelists including, Dr. Raj Bhayani MD, ENT and Facial Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Manoj Jain MD, Physician of Infectious Disease, Dr. Shardule Shah, co-founder and CEO of Lime Therapeutics, and Ayush Jain, VP Revolution’s Rise of the Rest.

A workshop focused on educating and motivating aspiring entrepreneurs was led by Yogendra Jain, and many of the industry panellists, as well as Chintan Shah, president of KNB Communications.

The JITO conference had 30+ volunteers and was emcee-ed by Shrija Pandya, Senior Growth and Performance Marketing Manager at AmorePacific US, Akshay Pandya, Growth and Operations Associate at Stay AI, and Vinit Shah, Data Scientist at Spotify.

The event was sponsored by Ami Shah CPA, ASHI Diamonds, Eckuity, International Ahimsa Foundation, Oncospark, Outamation, Sandeep Diamonds, Vertoz, and Yoda Tech.

Boost Your Child’s Focus and Concentration with Yoga

Expert Tips from Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar

In our fast-paced, distraction-filled world, it has become increasingly important to cultivate focus in children. As parents, educators, and caretakers, we aim to equip them with the tools they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Among the numerous techniques at our disposal, one enduring practice has emerged as particularly impactful on both mind and body: yoga. More than a mere physical workout, yoga presents a comprehensive approach that can significantly boost a child’s concentration, leading to better academic achievement and heightened emotional well-being. By integrating yoga practices into their lives, we can help our children face modern challenges with clarity, resilience, and unwavering focus.

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, a yoga and spiritual leader and founder of Akshar Yoga Institutions, asserts that “introducing early yoga training for kids is a wonderful approach to instil in them the values of breathing and stretching.” He notes that with poses named after animals and nature, like Tree Pose and Cat-Cow, yoga keeps children engaged and entertained. “Yoga is a fantastic way to increase focus, reduce stress, and unwind,” he says, emphasizing the importance of fostering concentration from an early age.

Akshar adds that specific exercises and asanas, such as Surya Namaskar, Bakasana, and Bal Bakasana, can help children focus more effectively. “These yogic exercises adjust their energy fields and operate on their internal systems,” he explains. Yoga encourages dexterity by teaching children about balance and coordination. As they strive to maintain particular asanas, they develop mental and physical composure. “They gain focus and attention by doing this, which gives them a feeling of success,” he concludes.

Top Yoga Poses for Kids to Enhance Concentration

Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar shared with HT Lifestyle a selection of yoga asanas specifically designed to develop concentration and focus in children.

Bakasana – Crow Pose Begin by leaning forward and placing your palms flat on the ground in front of your feet, slightly apart. Your fingers should point forward and be spread wide. Lean forward until your arms support your body weight. Find your balance and slowly lift both feet off the ground. Slightly bend your elbows and place your knees below your armpits. Keep your feet together, maintain your arms as straight as possible, focus on one point, and hold this pose for a while.

Bal Bakasana – Baby Crow Pose Start in Marjariasana, placing your elbows flat. Spread your fingers apart and point them forward as you lean forward until your triceps support your body weight. Once balanced, gently raise both feet, keeping them together.

Sirshasana – Headstand Pose Begin in Vajrasana. Interlock your palms and elbows to form an imaginary equilateral triangle, with your elbows flat on the floor. Place your palms in front of the crown of your head, which should be on the ground, and support the back of your head with your palms. Then, walk your toes towards your head until your back is straight. Lift your right leg up and position it in front of your upper torso first. Use your core strength to balance and bring your left leg up, joining your legs and pointing your toes downward. Stay in this posture for as long as you’re comfortable.

Meditation Technique: Sthiti Dhyan • Sit in Sukhasana. • Look straight for about 4-5 seconds, then behind you and on either side for the same duration. • Close your eyes. • Recall what you observed.

Discussing how yoga enhances focus in children, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar states, “Children who practice yoga have greater self-esteem and confidence. Yoga encourages goal-setting and consistency. They develop discipline through regular practice, and as they accomplish asanas, it reinforces the qualities of persistence and hard work. Yoga teaches children the importance of the mind-body connection, as the poses challenge the body while calming the mind. Introducing group yoga classes in settings such as schools or communities should be encouraged from an early age so that children can reap both academic and overall benefits by developing positive life skills.”

Asia Society Museum Presents Buddha, Sage of the Shakya Clan

Asia Society Museum presents a selection of 15 masterworks from the Asia Society’s renowned Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection, depicting the “Eight Great Events” from the life of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha.

Works in the exhibition date from the second to eighteenth centuries and represent some of the finest examples of Buddhist art, drawn from the Asia Society’s Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd Collection.

Buddhism, founded in India the late sixth century B.C.E., has assumed many different forms but generally draws from the life experiences of the Buddha, his teachings, and the “spirit” or “essence” of his teachings, (dharma), as models for religious life.

While the actual life events of the Buddha are not well documented, there are several legendary stories about significant moments in his life, which became codified in a visual language by around 100 AD. This exhibition is anchored by an illuminated manuscript from the great Indian Buddhist monastic learning center, Nalanda, depicting the “Eight Great Events” around which these legendary stories are centered, including:

  • The Buddha’s princely birth as the son of King Suddhodana and Queen Maya of the Shakya warrior clan
  • His defeat over the demon Mara and attainment of enlightenment
  • The first turning of the wheel of dharma at Sarnath, representing the teaching of the Four Noble Truths
  • Performing of miracles at Sravasti
  • Descending from the heaven of thirty-three gods (Trayastrimsha Heaven) after preaching to the gods and his mother
  • Taming the wild elephant Nagiri
  • Receiving the loyal monkey’s gift of honey leading to the its rebirth as an enlightened being
  • His death and attainment of parinirvana

The scenes illustrated in the exhibition began to appear by the second century in Mathura, in modern-day Uttar Pradesh, India, and within the Buddhist centers of the Gandharan Kingdom, areas in modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Several of the works in the exhibition just returned from a multivenue tour to New Orleans, LA; Jacksonville, FL; Chapel Hill, NC; Fort Worth, TX, and A Coruña, Spain, as part of the enthusiastically received exhibition Buddha and Shiva, Lotus and Dragon.

The exhibition is curated by Laura Weinstein, John H. Foster Associate Curator, Pre-Modern Art, Asia Society.

Buddha, Sage of the Shakya Clan is on view at Asia Society Museum in New York from June 13–August 27, 2023. Find out more and plan your visit at AsiaSociety.org/NY

IDEA Showcases Diversity Of Indian Classical Dance

The Indian Dance Educators Association (IDEA), a community of dance professionals, dedicated to community service through increased artistic opportunities, celebrated its biennial festival “Silver Screen- 75 years of classical dance in Indian cinema” on May 13, 2023, at Olney Theater Center in Washington DC.

IDEA’s biennial event was sponsored by the Embassy of India in Washington DC. The day-long event featured four-panel discussions and six mesmerizing thematic Indian classical dance performances, according to a release.

Picture : NYT

In the inaugural session, a group of experts discussed topics including KahaniKePeeche–The importance of symbolic messages hidden in traditional stories portrayed in Indian dances; NatyaPravaha – Exploring dance through the years – what does classical dance mean today? Balancing the Indian traditions today; Sa Re Ga Ma – Musical influences on dance and film over 75 years and Aaja Nachle – Exploring dance in Indian cinema.

The second half of the event showcased a set of themed dance performances including an ode to classical dancers in Indian cinema through Kathak and Kuchipudi dance by Bratati Saha, Krishnaveni Gurrapu, and their students. A Bharathanatyam performance’ Journey to the Villages of Karnataka’ through the songs of Kannada Cinema was presented by students of Deepti Mukund.

Additionally, attendees of the event enjoyed Kathak performances by a group of students of Arpita Roy, Kuchipudi by students of Arpita Roy, Odissi, Kathak, Bharathanatyam by Arpita Sabud, Srabanti Roya and,  Praneetha Akula, Bharathanatyam by students of Vani Ramesh.

Deputy Chief of the Indian Mission in Washington DC, Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan participated in the event and appreciated IDEA presenting diverse genres of Indian cinema over 75 years as part of celebrations of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Most U.S. Parents Pass Along Their Religion And Politics To Their Children

Which are American parents more likely to pass along to their kids – their religion or their politics?

Turns out, most parents pass along both kinds of affiliation, and they do so at similarly high rates, according to a new analysis of several Pew Research Center surveys.

How we did this

This may be surprising, considering that parents are more likely to prioritize the transmission of their religious views than their political views. In a fall survey by the Center, 35% of U.S. parents said it was extremely or very important that their kids grow up to share their religious views, while fewer than half as many (16%) said the same about their political views. Notably, parents saw both religious and political transmission as much less important than passing along other values, such as being honest and ethical, hardworking, and ambitious.

Still, people in some religious groups did place a high priority on raising their kids to carry on their faith. For example, 70% of White born-again or evangelical Protestant parents said it was extremely or very important for their children to hold similar religious beliefs, compared with just 8% of religiously unaffiliated parents.

As every parent knows, though, wanting a child to do something is not the same as getting a child to do something. So how successful are American parents, overall, at transmitting their religious and political affiliations to their children?

One way of answering the question is to compare U.S. teenagers and their parents. That’s what we did in a 2019 survey of more than 1,800 teens ages 13 to 17, each of whom was interviewed along with one parent. In most cases, the parent was a biological mother or father, but sometimes it was an adoptive parent, stepparent, foster parent, grandparent or other guardian.

The survey indicated that the vast majority of parents with teens have passed along their political loyalties. Roughly eight-in-ten parents who were Republican or leaned toward the Republican Party (81%) had teens who also identified as Republicans or leaned that way. And about nine-in-ten parents who were Democratic or leaned Democratic (89%) had teens who described themselves the same way.

The transmission of religion through American families appears to be similarly efficient. In the same 2019 survey, 82% of Protestant parents had teens who also identified as Protestant, 81% of Catholic parents had Catholic teens, and 86% of religiously unaffiliated parents – those who described themselves as atheist, agnostic or nothing in particular – had teens who were also “nones.”

The survey sample was not large enough to estimate transmission rates among parents who belong to non-Christian religious groups, such as Jews and Muslims. But there were enough parents from some Christian subgroups to estimate their “success” at passing on their faith. Among evangelical Protestant parents of all races and ethnicities, for example, 80% had teens who identified as evangelicals, and an additional 7% had teens who identified with other Protestant traditions. Just 12% had teens who were unaffiliated and 1% had teens who were Catholic.

In other words, even though evangelical Protestants place much higher importance on passing their religion to their children than religiously unaffiliated parents do, the two groups are about equally successful at actually doing so, at least through about age 17.

Still, many people switch religious affiliations or leave organized religion entirely between the ages of 18 and 29. So another way to gauge the transmission of religion is to look at how American adults describe the religion of the person or people who raised them, and then compare it with their own religious affiliation today. That’s what we did in another survey in 2015.

The survey found that most people who were raised in a single religion – either by two parents of the same faith or by a single parent – retained that religion. Roughly eight-in-ten of those raised Protestant (79%) were still Protestant. About six-in-ten of those raised Catholic were still Catholic (62%), and an identical proportion of those raised with no religious affiliation were still unaffiliated (62%).

There was much more flux among the roughly one-in-five U.S. adults (21%) who were raised in interfaith households. Among those raised by two people, one of whom was Protestant and the other unaffiliated, the Protestant identity proved to be “stickier”: 56% identified as Protestant, while 34% were unaffiliated, 3% were Catholic, and 7% belonged to other religions.

Among those raised by two people, one of whom was Catholic and the other unaffiliated, 42% were unaffiliated in adulthood while 32% were Catholic, 20% were Protestant, and 5% identified with other religions.

Meanwhile, among those who were brought up by two people, one Protestant and one Catholic, the outcome was close to a toss-up. In adulthood, 38% identified as Protestant, 29% were Catholic, 26% were unaffiliated, and 7% belonged to other religions.

Koh-I-Noor Diamond Absent From King Charles III’s Coronation

Amidst the glitter and glamour of King Charles III’s coronation, the Koh-i-noor diamond was missing. The diamond, whose name means “mountain of light” in Persian, is a 105-carat jewel, which according to legend, was discovered over 800 years ago on the banks of the Krishna River in Southern India.

Over the years, it has passed through various empires, including the Mughal, Persian, Afghan and Sikh, until it eventually became the property of Queen Victoria in the mid-19th century. However, the diamond has remained steeped in controversy, and many believe that it is cursed. Traditionally, only female members of the British royal family wear the diamond, particularly queen consorts, due to its curse which supposedly affected the male members.

The diamond was last worn by Elizabeth, wife of King George VI, during her coronation in 1937 and subsequently during the coronation of her daughter, Elizabeth II in 1953. However, there is no known record of the current Queen wearing the diamond. According to tradition, King Charles III’s wife, Camilla would have been the next person to wear the diamond at this weekend’s coronation ceremony. However, instead, she wore a different crown adorned with 2,200 smaller diamonds because the Koh-i-noor has become a point of contention due to its controversial history.

Picture : WPLG

The diamond was believed to be cursed, and many male royals who wore it suffered from calamities. Anita Anand, a historian who co-authored the book “Koh-i-noor: The History of the World’s Most Infamous Diamond,” stated that “Every time you bring someone over from India or Pakistan, they just swear at it! Swear at the fact that it’s here.” The diamond is wanted back by India and several neighbouring countries, including Iran and Afghanistan, whose rulers and royals, over the centuries, had possession of it.

Despite the diamond’s controversial past, the British monarchy still claims ownership of the diamond and intends to keep it. As a result of the protests, the Koh-i-noor has become a “symbol of conquest” deeply rooted in British soil, a fact which has outraged the Indians who are visitors to the Tower of London, where the gem is currently kept on display. The Indian government has repeatedly raised the issue of repatriating the diamond with the British government. After Queen Elizabeth’s death last year, Buckingham Palace made an announcement: The Koh-i-noor diamond would not be a part of King Charles III’s coronation ceremony, remaining safe and secure in the Tower of London.

Unearthing a Coconut-Sized Diamond

Centuries ago, diamonds were discovered by surfacing up to the Earth’s topsoil before being mined. The Golconda alluvial mines in southern India were particularly known for this phenomenon, where the largest diamond of the time was discovered approximately 800 years ago. “People used to go to the rivers and take baths, and there were no soaps or cosmetics at the time, so they used the wet clay next to the riverbanks and applied it to their bodies,” explains Mohan Devarapalli, a local tour guide who specialises in Koh-i-noor-themed tours. While collecting clay, someone stumbled upon the diamond, which was rumoured to be the size of a coconut.

Believing that the diamond was a gift from the holy river, the locals presented it to the 12th century Hindu kings of the Kakatiya dynasty to keep it safe. Unfortunately, India was full of warring states at the time, making it challenging to protect the diamond from the prying eyes of others. They placed the diamond inside the eye socket of a large golden statue of the Hindu goddess Durga, located in a temple that is still in use today in Warangal city, near a lake. One eye was diamond, and the other was glass, with both appearing identical except for the kings who knew the diamond was hidden inside.

“One of the [goddess’] eyes was the diamond, which no one knew — except the kings — because it looked like glass. Even the priests, they would not have known it,” explained Devarapalli. As a result, it was one of the most well-kept secrets to hide the diamond. For a few centuries, the ploy of hiding the gemstone in plain sight appeared to work.

Since then, the diamond has had an eventful journey. After the Mughal Empire’s conquest of the region, the diamond became part of their spoils and an essential part of numerous battles. Eventually, the British moved the diamond to the Tower of London as the spoils of war in the mid-19th century, where it is currently a part of the Queen’s crown jewels. Despite the diamond’s journey across history, it remains one of the most famous and important diamonds globally, with its folklore and symbolism continuing to captivate the world.

The Koh-i-noor: A Diamond of Bloodshed and Conquest

The Koh-i-noor diamond has a long and disputed history, originating from the Golconda area of southern India. Its story begins with the Kakatiya dynasty, who guarded the precious gem until it was pillaged by invaders from the north in the 14th century. The diamond eventually ended up embedded in the Peacock Throne of Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who also built the Taj Mahal. The Peacock Throne was later captured by Nadir Shah of Iran, who passed the diamond on to Ahmad Shah Abdali, founder of Afghanistan. The Afghans believe strongly that the diamond belongs to them.

As the diamond changed hands from one conqueror to another, legends of curses began to circulate. Indian astrology teaches that only a pure man without sin – a great man – can wear a diamond without risking bad luck. Anyone who is flawed, or any diamond that is flawed, must be treated with caution. The Koh-i-noor diamond, with its disputed history and murky past, has been the subject of many curses.

The arrival of the British added another chapter to the story of the diamond. The East India Company arrived in the 17th century, followed by British colonial rulers. By this time, the diamond was only worn by women. Queen Victoria had a particular interest in the Koh-i-noor and was keen to add it to her collection. In 1849, the British obtained possession of the diamond and presented it to Queen Victoria, who had it re-cut to improve its brilliance.

Today, the Koh-i-noor diamond remains a highly prized treasure, and its history and origins are still a matter of dispute and disagreement. As historian William Dalrymple says, “it’s the nearest thing to the ring of power in Lord of the Rings. Whenever it goes, it stirs up anger, greed, murder and bloodshed!” Its storied past adds to its mystique and allure, and it remains one of the most famous diamonds in the world.

The Koh-i-noor: A Gift to Queen Victoria from a Conquered Nation

The diamond has a long history, having been possessed by various rulers, including the Sikh Maharaja Duleep Singh. In 1849, during the second Anglo-Sikh war, British diplomats befriended the young prince and confiscated the diamond. It was then presented to Queen Victoria, who had it fashioned into a brooch.

Today, the Koh-i-noor remains in the UK’s possession, and its loss is still a source of frustration and hurt for many Indians. This is highlighted in a sound-and-light show for tourists in Hyderabad, where the famous Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan laments the diamond’s location. The show projects a holographic replica of the diamond, which is met with disappointment from the audience who believe it to be the real thing.

Many Indians feel that this is a clear example of the British colonial past, where items were taken from their rightful owners without return. Saudamini Sharma, a tourist visiting the fort, explains: “The British never apologized about anything…civilized people don’t steal — don’t take away stuff and never return it.”

The Koh-i-noor is a symbol of a complex history between India and the UK, and whilst it remains in the UK’s possession, it will continue to be a contentious issue.

India’s Demand for the Return of a Stolen Gem

The question of ownership surrounding the Koh-i-Noor diamond has been a sensitive issue for many years, with calls growing louder for the diamond to be returned to its original home. The diamond has been held in what is now India, Pakistan, Iran, and Bangladesh, and even the Taliban claim it is theirs.

Western governments are starting to address ownership issues surrounding cultural heritage, such as Jewish art looted by the Nazis and colonial artifacts in British museums. The Benin Bronzes were recently returned to Nigeria, and Greece is currently asking the British Museum to return the Elgin Marbles.

Despite these movements, the UK government and the Royals have rarely commented on the Koh-i-Noor. In 2010, then-Prime Minister David Cameron said returning the diamond would set a dangerous precedent for British institutions. He stated, “What tends to happen with these questions is that if you say yes to one, you suddenly find the British Museum would be empty!”

As of now, the British sell tickets to see the diamond, with prices for adults being around $37. The Koh-i-Noor was the star attraction at the World Exhibition at the Crystal Palace in London in 1851. It was for this exhibition that the diamond was cut down, reducing it by at least 85 carats, following technological advancements in “brilliant” cut diamonds which required a reshaping of the diamond to refract more light.

“To Indians, it’s actually a perfect metaphor for what India went through: It was reshaped and re-cut and diminished into something that suited a British palate and British needs,” says journalist and writer Anita Anand. She highlights that it represents the wider issue surrounding the history of the British Empire, which is rarely taught in British schools. “We don’t really learn about the history of empire! It’s painted as if it’s something very long ago, not really interesting—and yet, it shapes the world we live in today.”

Last year, India and Pakistan celebrated 75 years of independence from the British crown, but for many, the story is incomplete while the British crown still holds their diamond. The call for its return has grown louder, highlighting the need for Western governments to consider issues of ownership in regards to cultural heritage.

Ekal Vidyalaya Organizes A Tribute To The Musical Diversity Of Bollywood

A lilting melody, familiar lyrics, outstanding voices of legend, and there is nothing more evocative of our yesteryears than Bollywood music.

The mere onset of a favorite song instantly transports us to our motherland, flooding people  with a sea of memories that are the fabric of our being. The rich musical tapestry of Bollywood songs tugs at hearts, bringing comfort and yearning alike, and most of all creating an enchanting experience for all.

Ekal Vidyalaya invites you to witness a magical experience like that at its Bollywood fundraiser concert “Maa Tujhe Salaam” on May 13, 2023 at Cameron Middle School, in Framingham, MA from 3 – 6 pm.

Picture : TheUNN

Featuring Vishwanath Batunge and his talented group of Sa Re Ga Ma fame from India, it promises to be a fantastic musical experience.

“Maa Tujhe Salaam will celebrate our love for our motherland along with giving tribute to all mothers, while benefiting Bharat Mata’s underprivileged kids and women at the same time,” said Manisha Jain, President Ekal USA, New England chapter. “What better way to begin Mother’s Day celebration than attending an enchanting concert!”

Doors will open at 2pm for the social hour at Cameron Middle School in Framingham, and guests will be able to enjoy free refreshments sponsored by Maya Indian Bar & Grill. Photo opportunities will be galore with the talented husband wife duo of Ammara’s Photography.

Several small businesses and non-profit organizations will be showcased, notably, SheSha Indian clothing, Mayin Arts fashion accessories, Vastra Collections clothing store, Bewitched Boutique Desi Bazaar, Indian Circle of Caring, New York Life Insurance, and Dreamhomes with Geetanjali Pathak to name a few.

Guests will also have the opportunity to Shop for a Cause, at the Ekal Ethnic Clothes Table, for new and gently used Indian clothing at a fraction of a cost – with all proceeds supporting Ekal’s work in remote rural India. Seating begins at 3pm and the concert will begin at 3:30 sharp.

The Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation, USA is a nonprofit service organization which dedicates itself to bringing education and village development to rural India. With ongoing work in the remote and tribal villages of India, the Ekal movement is the largest grassroots NGO in

India. Ekal’s Integrated Village Development (IVD) is a focused effort to help rural villages become prosperous and self-reliant through education, health services, and skills training.

Ekal looks forward to a wonderful musical evening with its supporters and patrons. Click here for tickets and donations. https://tinyurl.com/EKALMA .

India’s Historical Monuments Featured on Indian Currency Notes

Indian currency notes are not only a means of exchange but also a reflection of India’s rich cultural heritage. They showcase the country’s historical monuments, events, and achievements. A Twitter user, Desi Thug, recently shared a thread that went viral, featuring various Indian currency notes and the historical sites depicted on them.

The Rs. 10 banknote features the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a monumental representation of the sun god Surya’s chariot. The Rs. 20 banknote showcases the Kailash Temple, a 13th-century temple in Ellora that was built from top to bottom, rather than the conventional bottom to top method. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Rs. 50 note displays the Hampi Stone Chariot, built in the 16th century by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. This chariot was inspired by the Konark Sun Temple during a war with Kalinga. The Rs. 100 note showcases Rani Ki Vav, a stepwell in Gujarat, built in the 11th century in the unique Maru-Gurjara architectural style.

Picture : Mintage World

The Rs. 200 note features the Sanchi Stupa, which was built by Emperor Ashoka to preserve and spread Buddhist philosophy. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rs. 500 note displays the Red Fort in Delhi, built by Shah Jahan, with construction beginning in 1639 and completed after nine years, as stated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Lastly, the Rs. 2000 banknote, the highest denomination in India, showcases Mangalyaan, India’s first successful Mars mission. According to NASA, the mission aimed to explore the planet’s features, morphology, mineralogy, and atmosphere.

The tweet received an overwhelming response from users, with comments such as “Amazing facts and thread,” “Excellent information,” and “Amazing thread.” The thread has since garnered over 1.7 million views and counting.

The Indian currency notes not only serve as a medium of exchange but also showcase India’s rich cultural heritage through the historical monuments, events, and achievements depicted on them. The Twitter thread featuring these sites and events has gone viral, prompting an enthusiastic response from users. The tweet serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.

Charles III Crowned As King Of United Kingdom In Once-In-A-Generation Ceremony

King Charles III and his wife, Camilla, were crowned during a grand coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6th, 2023. The couple, escorted by around 200 members of the British military, began their procession from Buckingham Palace to the ceremony in a golden carriage drawn by eight horses.

During the grand and religious ceremony at Westminster Abbey, King Charles III was formally crowned as monarch of the United Kingdom and 14 other countries. Although Charles had ascended to the throne on the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II last September, his coronation was the traditional crowning of the monarch. This marked the first time since 1953 that a coronation was held at the historic site.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby placed the St. Edward’s Crown, a 360-year-old symbol of monarchy, on Charles’ head during the most significant moment of the day. Welby declared, “God Save the King” in a service that reflected the fact that Charles is not only head of state but also the Supreme Governor of the Church of England.

Picture : CNN

They were surrounded by over 1,000 soldiers, sailors, and Royal Air Force personnel. At Westminster Abbey, Charles and Camilla were welcomed by church officials and support staff before the formal ceremony began. One of Charles’ first speeches emphasized his intent to “serve, not to be served” and follow in the footsteps of the “king of kings.” After taking on a series of oaths, Charles was presented with symbolic items such as swords and spurs from various historical periods before putting on the heavy crown.

The coronation was completed with the oath of allegiance pledged by the highest members of Britain’s clergy and Charles’ son, Prince William. The ceremony, which was steeped in history and tradition, has been modernized in certain ways. During the service, when acknowledging the various faiths observed in the UK, the archbishop said the Church of England “will seek to foster an environment in which people of all faiths may live freely.”

One modern innovation saw the King become the first monarch to pray aloud at his coronation. Charles asked to “be a blessing” to people “of every faith and conviction.” This prayer was considered the most sacred part of the ceremony. The King was also anointed with holy oil by the archbishop and presented with the coronation regalia, including the royal Robe and Stole, during the investiture part of the service.

Picture : people

For the first time in coronation history, the archbishop invited the British public and those from “other Realms” to recite a pledge of allegiance to the newly crowned monarch and his “heirs and successors.” This invitation caused criticism from the media, and the Church of England then revised the text of the liturgy to offer a choice between saying “God save King Charles” and reciting the full pledge.

Music played a central role in the proceedings, with five new compositions commissioned, including an anthem by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The newly crowned king and his wife rode back to Buckingham Palace in a grand coach drawn by six horses, accompanied by the Household Cavalry, after which a much larger parade took place featuring 4,000 members of the armed forces, 250 horses, and 19 military bands.

The ceremony also featured a reading from the Bible by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and gospel music, which was a first for a coronation. Following the coronation, Charles’ wife, Queen Camilla was crowned in her own, shorter ceremony with Queen Mary’s Crown, making it the first time in recent history that a new crown wasn’t made specifically for this occasion.

The weather was wet during the proceedings, which saw tens of thousands of well-wishers gather in central London despite the rain. The rain appeared to have little effect on the proceedings, which concluded with the customary balcony appearance by the King and family members, who watched a flypast of military aircraft.

Picture : Yahoo

The two-hour-long ceremony saw the monarch proclaim his faith and devotion to his subjects, invoking integrity and humility, and the whole nation. Charles’ coronation is a historic event that upholds the traditions of the British monarchy, representing a modern touch with the introduction of the pledge of allegiance and modern hymns. Charles will continue to work towards building a better future for the United Kingdom and its allies.

Royal ceremony witnesses global dignitaries and renowned personalities

Thousands of royal fans camped alongside the 1.3-mile (2km) route that extends from London’s Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy, to Westminster Abbey, the coronation church since 1066, to catch a glimpse of King Charles III’s procession. However, the London Metropolitan Police Service had to close all the viewing areas along the processional path due to overfilling.

The size of the congregation, about 2,300 people was much smaller than that in 1953, when temporary structures had to be erected at the abbey to accommodate more than 8,000 people on the guest list. The abbey doors were opened just before 8 a.m. and guests, including top British officials, faith leaders, and international representatives, were expected to take their seats more than an hour before the ceremony began. The event was attended by hundreds of VIPs, hinting at the logistical challenges presented by a ceremony of this magnitude.

The guest list was comprised of notable British public figures and politicians like Rishi Sunak’s living predecessors as Prime Minister. Other attendees included UK opposition leader Keir Starmer, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, and Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt. Heads of states from approximately 100 countries and dozens of members of foreign royal families also made their way to London for the service. Notable international attendees include Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen, and European Council President Charles Michel.

US President Joe Biden was absent from the ceremony, and Jill Biden led the US delegation, sitting beside Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska. Several celebrities graced the occasion, including singers Lionel Richie and Katy Perry, musician Nick Cave, actresses Emma Thompson, Maggie Smith, Joanna Lumley, and Judi Dench, composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, and broadcaster Stephen Fry.

The last to arrive, just before the King and Queen, were Prince Charles’ siblings and children, including Prince Harry, who travelled from the United States to the UK without his wife, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, and their two young children. It was also Prince Archie’s 4th birthday. After the ceremony, Prince Harry did not join the family for the start of the traditional balcony appearance, and CNN revealed that he did not receive an invitation to join the family for this moment. Similarly, Prince Andrew was not present on the balcony due to his ties to Jeffery Epstein, a convicted pedophile. The prince announced that he would step back from royal duties in 2019 and, in January 2022, was stripped off his military titles and royal patronages after a judge ruled that a sexual abuse civil lawsuit filed against him by Virginia Giuffre would proceed. The case was later settled out of court for an undisclosed sum.

Challenges and Controversies Surrounding the Coronation of King Charles III

The Coronation ceremony of King Charles III has been a subject of controversy despite the grandeur of the occasion. While the British monarchy and its supporters relished the event, several citizens disapproved of the millions of pounds spent on the ceremony, calling it an insensitive use of taxpayers’ money, especially during the economic downturn.

The biggest challenge of the event was security, since security for such large-scale events is one of the costliest aspects. Given this, the London Metropolitan Police Service, ahead of time, announced that the coronation day would be the largest single-day policing operation in decades, with over 11,500 policemen on duty in the city. The event also faced unwanted anti-monarchy demonstrations, and a few protesters were arrested in Central London on Saturday morning, before the event commenced. Republic, a campaign group that vehemently opposes the monarchy, deemed the concept of the “homage of the people” on the coronation day “offensive, tone-deaf, and a gesture that holds the people in contempt.”

Earlier this week, the enforcement of a controversial UK public order bill, which has faced wide criticism, raised eyebrows. Since the Queen’s passing last year, there has been an increase in instances of anti-monarchists turning up unexpectedly at royal events to voice their objections to the monarchy. The new rule, signed into law by King Charles III just before the coronation, gives the police greater authority to take stronger legal action against peaceful protesters.

Despite the grandeur of the event, some people had criticized spending millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money on the ceremony amid an economic crisis. The security costs, which are usually the costliest part of large events, were also a concern, with over 11, 500 police officers on duty across London.

After returning from his coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey, King Charles III and Queen Camilla were welcomed by hundreds of military personnel in ceremonial uniforms on the vast lawn at the rear of Buckingham Palace.

They then appeared on the long balcony at the front of the building, where thousands of supporters had gathered to catch a glimpse of the newly crowned King and Queen. Despite raining heavily, the couple was joined by select members of the royal family as the audience looked on.

While the Air Force jets roared overhead, leaving behind a trail of smoke in the national colors of red, white and blue, Charles raised his eyes but did not look up, seemingly preoccupied with managing the delicate balance of his crown.

Headlined by popular artists such as Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Take That, the “Coronation Concert” was held at Windsor Castle on Sunday evening, and people were encouraged to volunteer in their communities on Monday, the final day of the long holiday weekend.

Interfaith Crusader Iftekhar Shareef & Aftab Baig Host Grand Iftar Banquet

Chicago community’s spirited interfaith crusader Iftekhar Shareef in partnership with entrepreneur Aftab Baig hosted a grand Iftar Banquet – this splendid interfaith celebration was marked by the convergence of people of all faiths joining the Chicago’s Muslim community in celebrating one of their most momentous pre-festival Ramadan at the Monty’s Banquet in Elmhurst, Illinois on April 16, 2023. This grand Iftar Banquet was hosted traditionally in its march towards a grand festival celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Taking to the podium, Iftekhar Shareef welcomed the gathering of guests of all faiths and outlined the significance of interfaith Iftar celebration which he added seeks to foster a sense of unity and build bridges of friendship and unity with all communities of faith and work together to make our communities, our society, our nation and indeed our world a better place. Iftekhar Shareef said it is my humble aspiration to promote interfaith camaraderie that offers an opportunity for greater understanding of what Ramadan truly represents and ways to promote and strengthen interfaith harmony. Iftekhar Shareef said based on our religious tenants, I feel so grateful and honored to host this interfaith banquet to celebrate friendship, unity, brotherhood and deepen the engagement of interfaith appreciation.

Chief Guest United States Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in his remarks extolled the virtuous interfaith celebration in observance of Ramadan and said the presence of Hindus, Christians and other faiths present at the celebration is a shining testament to the diversity of the community coming together with the shared interest to celebrate and complement each other’s faith.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said Ramadan is a time when people of all faiths come together in unity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and unite in their efforts to deepen greater understanding among diverse faiths. Congressman Iftkehar Shareef and Aftab Baig for taking the lead on hosting a grand interfaith banquet with the purpose of bringing people of all faiths together to celebrate oneness, goodwill and unity.  Following Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s remarks, host Iftekhar Shareef fed him with a date a tradition commemorating the breaking of fast and honored him with a shawl and flower bouquet to showcase appreciation for his presence.

Azam Nizamuddin, a leading lawyer who promotes interfaith worldwide, spoke of the importance of interfaith events and brotherhood amongst communities. Dr Sabeel Ahmed of Gain Peace foundation also spoke of the importance of hosting this kind of interfaith events .

In the gracious spirit and tradition of Ramadan, Iftekhar Shareef honored several leading elected officials and community’s prominent leaders including Oakbrook Mayor Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Lincolnwood Mayor Jesal Patel, Raes Yawar, VP Board of Commissioners of Streamwood Park District, Dr. Hanumanth Reddy, American Telugu Association Founder, Dr. Vijay Prabhakar, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Ajeet Singh, Sohan Joshi , Dr Tajjamul Hussain a leading oncologist who also spoke about interfaith.

Community’s leading stalwart Mr. Niranjan Shah was the honored guest who took to the podium paying glowing admiration to Iftkehar Shareef for taking the lead in hosting Iftar celebration, and said that the spirit of interfaith harmony must continue to work towards deepening our interpersonal relations. He was joined by his wife Pratima Shah. Mrs. Raes Yawar, VP Board of Commissioners for Streamwood Park District said Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and devotion; while Keerthi Kumar Ravoori described Iftekhar Shareef is an interfaith champion who is relentless in his pursuit of fostering peace, love and goodwill among people of all faiths.

Earlier, precisely at 6:34 pm, after the call to prayer, the fasting members of the Muslim community broke their fast by eating dates. Following the initial breaking of the fast, they went into the prayer hall to offer post-fasting prayer before the formal celebration began. The religious significance of Ramadan was explained as to how fasting serves a variety of spiritually and socially based purposes including the human frailty and greater reliance on God for sustenance; to show hunger and thirst to enable compassion for the poor and the responsibility to support them and to rebuild relations with God through prayer and abstinence.

Some of the prominent community guests include Bhailal Patel, Rakesh Malhotra, Altaf Bukhari, Sainath Reddy Boyapalli, Mir Khan (ZIa) , Dr Muzzafar Mirza a leading Dentist , Dr Imaad Sheikh , Kishore Padma Mehta, Abdul Siddiqui, Rajani Akurati, Syed Khurram, Bhanu Swargam, Falguni Rana, Veteran Chris Chrilstian,  AR Saleem , Samiuddin Khaja and many more. The evening celebration of Interfaith Iftar featured a lavish expansive dinner spread and the guests savored its finest traditional cuisine specially created by Co-Host Aftab Baig.

United Punjabis Of America organizes Vaisakhi Mela

It was an exciting afternoon at the Mall of India as United Punjabis of America (UPA) hosted a very successful Vaisakhi Mela on Saturday, April 15. More than 700 people came to enjoy the festive celebration, with 20 busy booths selling colorful clothing and jewelry, providing information for various services available in the community, and offering delicious food for purchase.

A stunning Dhol Tasha performance by Maharashtra Mandal heralded the start of the cultural program and got the audience buzzing with excitement for the rest of the program. The emcees, Neha Sobti and Ramesh Malhan, offered a warm welcome to all and invited the dignitaries to help light the lamp of friendship and celebration.

Picture : Asian Media USA

Congressman Bill Foster and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi offered Vaisakhi greetings and congratulated UPA for hosting this event. Other dignitaries who joined the two Congressmen were Ranjit Singh (Consul, Indian Consulate in Chicago), State Senator Laura Ellman, Naperville Mayor Elect Scott Wehrli, Aurora Alderwoman Shweta Baid, Aurora Alderman John Laesch, and representatives of Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza. The UPA BOD Chairman, Om Dhingra, could not attend the event. He delegated his responsibilities to Pratibha Jairth and Ramesh Malhan.

Every year, UPA recognizes community members for their outstanding entrepreneurial or technical achievements and community services. This year five of these awards were conferred. Mr. Sudhir Dureja was recognized as a Distinguished Punjabi for Technical Achievements & Community Service; Dr. Anuja Gupta as a Distinguished Entrepreneur & Community Service Leader; Dr. Vijay Prabhakar as a Distinguished Community Service Leader; Mrs. Ratna Kapur as a Distinguished Punjabi for Community Service Leadership; and Mrs. Neha Sobti as a Distinguished Young Punjabi for Community Service. Mr. Dharam Punwani, President of UPA, congratulated the awardees and thanked them for their dedication to service.

Next came the highly anticipated dance performances from highly accomplished and energetic dancers. Colorful giddhas and scintillating Bollywood-style medleys were the order of the day and included performances. The judges Sarita Sood, Kanan Dhingra, Shammi Wahi, and Ratna Kapur had the difficult job of selecting the winners. Placing first was Neha Sobti Dance Academy, second place went to Rhythms and Grace Dance Studio by Shalini Dixit, and Dwance Academy by Anu Bhattacharya. won the third-place trophy. But in the eyes of the audience, every performance and performer were a winner. The entertainment ended with a bang with another exciting performance of Dhol Tasha by a group of young performers who handled their dhols with great confidence and skill.

“I am so grateful to everyone who participated in these performances and made Vaisakhi Mela such a success,” said Rosey Bhasin, a UPA Board member. In his vote of thanks, Ashwani Mahajan, UPA Secretary, offered thanks to the entire UPA Board and Executive Committee along with a special word of thanks to Girish Kapur and Atul Wahi for working with the Mall of India team on the logistics and the set up for the entire event.

“What a lovely Mela UPA has organized,” gushed a guest as she collected her shopping bags. “I am so glad our friends and we decided to come. We’ve all enjoyed the shopping and watching these excellent performances.” The celebrations continued well after 5 PM as the traffic at various booths continued to enjoy brisk business.

“Vaisakhi is such a beloved festival for us, and I am so proud that UPA continues this tradition of hosting a Mela to bring people together in friendship and gratitude for the bounty this festival blesses us with,” acknowledged Pratibha Jairath, former Chairwoman of the Board of UPA.

Entry to the UPA Vaisakhi mela was free. It was made possible by the support of various levels of sponsorships that included: International Fresh Market (Event Level), Mr. Anil Loomba, Home Mortgage Solutions Inc.(Platinum Level), Mr. Amrit Mittal, New York Life (Gold Level), Four Silver Level sponsorships of Mr. Rahul Wahi, LLT Group; Mr. Sunil Shah, New York Life; Dr. Bhupinder Beri, Crossroad Animal Hospital; Heartland Bank, and eight Bronze level sponsorships of Iroquois Dental, Moin Hauqe Group, Verandah Senior Living, State Bank of India, Blue Sky Innovations, Orochem, Sajmil Builders, and Om Signs and Graphics.

UPA is a charitable non-profit community service organization that has been organizing cultural and social events since 2013, donates food to various food pantries, and offers scholarships for community service.

Diwali Comes To Disney World

The first-of-its-kind Diwali celebrations will take place at Florida’s Disney Springs, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and EPCOT as Jashn Productions will host a Diwali Dance Fest at Walt Disney World® Resort.

According to a statement by the organizers the event will take place from October 26-29th, 2023 and will feature the sights and sounds of the popular Indian festival. A showcase of vibrant colours, stunning costumes, and incredible performances by the dancers of South Asian dance schools from across North America will be the event’s highlight.

“We are thrilled to bring Diwali to Walt Disney World® Resort for the first time ever, ” said Jashn productions director, Jeanie Beri. “We want to share the joy and excitement of this important festival with the South Asian dance community. We hope that the Diwali Dance Fest will become an annual event at Walt Disney World® Resort, bringing people together to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of South Asia.”

The three-day festival will feature an official parade at Disney Springs, a dance showcase at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, and a VIP party at EPCOT, the organizers revealed.

Led by award-winning South Asian American dancer Beri, who is of South-Asian origin, Jashn Productions provides a platform for South Asian artists to display their talents on a world stage. Under Beri’s leadership South Asian talent has gained recognition at the Walt Disney World, NBA, and the Broadway stage!

Iftar And Its Significance

The celebration of Iftars during Ramadan has become an expression of diversity and acceptance of the Muslim community around the world. Participation by politicians is a recognition of the demographic changes, especially in the Western World.

Sixty years ago, a white man named John Howard Griffin temporarily darkened his skin to pose as an African American in America’s Deep South and recounted his experiences of fear and prejudice in the book, Black Like Me.

To mingle with the Muslims today, you don’t have to wear a skull cap and sport Solzhenitsyn type of facial hair. Just get invited to an Iftar, the fast-breaking evening meal during the month of Ramadan! I did precisely that and attended four Iftar parties on Long Island in New York. As a bonus, I can tell a happy story of increasing communal amity.

My last Iftar on April 18 was hosted by the Town of Hempstead, presided by Supervisor Don Clavin. According to Zahid Syed, the Town’s Community Affairs Executive Director, as many as 800 people showed up. They included non-Muslims like me, a Hindu, and fellow editor Prof Indrajit Singh Saluja, a Sikh, all mainly hailing from the Indian subcontinent. Zahid claims that the first Iftar in New York held 25 years ago in City Hall was at his behest. This year, he has noticed quite a few first Iftars, including at the Town of North Hempstead, and the District Attorney’s office in Suffolk County.

Zahid Syed, who is organizing a Vaisakhi event next, is heartened to see people celebrating other communities’ festivals, signifying interfaith harmony. “The participation by politicians of all stripes is a recognition of the demographic changes,” he states.

Before the Iftar meal, Imam Kashif Aziz, associated with the mosques in Valley Stream and Elmont, explained the significance of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar when the Quran began revealing to Prophet Muhammed (PBUH). Believers are told to do charity work and feed the hungry this month. Fasting is to practice self-control and earn taqwa (piety/God consciousness).

My Iftar hopping started because having founded ALotusInTheMud.com a few months ago, I noticed that my Rolodex – even Facebook friends list – was not diverse enough. To make amends, I approached Arvind Vora who has been active in the interfaith movement for over 30 years. He took me along to many events and got me invited to Iftars.

My first Iftar was at the Amityville mosque of Ahmadiyyas, a sect of Islam. Rizwan Ahmad Alladin, its President, graciously invited me to introduce my Lotus magazine to the assembled men (women were in the partitioned section of the hall). The buffet was typical for South Asian gatherings (except for the alcohol, the prohibition of which is followed strictly by an overwhelming majority of Muslims till today). There was chicken biryani, goat meat, and even matter paneer, especially added to the menu for Mr Vora, a Jain.

The Iftar I enjoyed the most was hosted by Yavuz Girdap at his home in Saint James, NY. He is from Turkey and a franchisee of Moda Foods, importer of Turkish delicacies like baklava, which is going mainstream. The meal planned by his wife, Hafza, followed to the T what a doctor would have ordered. Lentil soup and salad, followed by brown rice, pasta, lean meat, and baklavas for dessert. All at a leisurely pace as conversation flowed and we had our laughter therapy thanks mainly to guest Nora Saleem’s cascade of cat stories.

One guest at Yavuz’s was Sadri Altinok, President of the Turkish Cultural Center in Ronkonkoma. So, I promptly got invited to their upcoming Iftar. No segregation of the sexes there. Sadri Altinok honored some of those who donated to Turkey earthquake relief and Suffolk County officers for their service. Mr Vora told me later that for decades the Turkish community in the US has been at the forefront of soft diplomacy of outreach to other communities and lawmakers.

A guest I met at the Turkish Cultural Center was Azra Dhar, President of Pacoli (Pakistani American Community of Long Island). She said that earlier when the Muslim community was smaller, people hosted Iftar parties at home with friends and family or went to the mosque. Now with a growing community and acceptance of diversity, you see Iftar gatherings at the official seats of government. “After years of tightness, I am happy to see this acceptance,” she commented.

While Azra Dhar attended over a dozen Iftars this Ramadan, Tahira Sharif, a fellow Pacolian who started  Ali Hasnain Foundation for philanthropic work in Pakistan, has also attended as many. Feeding a fasting person brings Sadaqa from God, she says, and that is how arose the tradition of people, organizations, mosques, and the community holding Iftars. While Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) is said to break his fast only with a few dates and water, Tahira says it is difficult to resist good food after the rozas from dawn to dusk without even a drop of water.

My neighbor, Rehana Siddiqui, who recently went to do her first Umra pilgrimage in Mecca, has followed prayers more devoutly this Ramadan and watched what she was eating to break the fast. She reports losing six pounds – and looks it.

Religious fasting, however good for your spiritual well-being, should not turn into feasting in these times of sedentary lifestyles when we all have to watch our diet. Done right, Ramadan can detox your body as well, not just the mind and soul. Dr Irfan Ahmad Alladin, a pain management expert,  quotes Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him) no less: “We should consume only to the point that one-third of the stomach is occupied with solid, one-third is occupied with liquid, and one-third is left empty.” See his article here:  https://alotusinthemud.com/moderation-the-right-way-to-ramadan-fasting/

Eid Mubarak – April 21. 

VRIKA THEO, A Novel By Prof. K.P. Mathew

Have you ever heard about Jews eat their own children? Yes it is mentioned in the Bible at Second King 6:24-30 that presents an astonishing narrative wherein two Israelite mothers agree to eat their children. The city of Samaria is under siege, and food is scarce, but this hardly lessens the shock of the mothers’ cannibalism.

This suspense thriller takes the reader through so many similar secrets, traveling through the Holy Land; and breaks even the DaVinci Code suspenses.

Picture : TheUNN

The novel begins with Rocky Rex from California joining as a researcher in Zion Archeological Center for Scroll Studies (Zacss), Tiberias in Israel. Rocky is assigned to research the scroll with Melka Kohan, the Senior Technical Assistant—the opportunity to conduct expeditions under Simeyon Yakin, the Director, a world-renowned researcher. The journeys started when a Bedouin shepherd recovered some scrolls from Qumran caves in 1947. More than 50000 scrolls dating back 2000 years were recovered from 11 caves in Qumran.

Rocky and Melka undertake the task of exploring new scrolls and to study about the wise men who went to give gifts to infant Jesus. Rocky falls in love with Melka, a Jewess. Melts parents had migrated from Poland during the Nazi persecution of Jews in the second world war. On their off days, Rocky’s trips with Melka became like a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

After a large number of setbacks, they obtain hints about the researcher who has studied wise men. During their visit with the researcher, they are taken as hostages by the Al-Qassame battalion at Ramalla. They are taken to the  gallows. The timely military camando operation by Israel saves their life. They do not retreat. They meet numerous tragedies in the Judea desert on the expedition to the cave.

At last, they find out the cave and discover and collect the scrolls written two-millennium pass by Hjuvalos, a Greek scholar. The scroll depicts his adventurous journey in search of infant Jesus. It is the only scroll discovered about Jesus; they realized that it could be abducted and that their lives be in danger. Yakin began the arduous task of retrieving the writings from the decaying scroll in great secrecy. Rocky and Melka give all their help to Yakin.

Hjuvalos started his journey from Athens according to his master’s wish. He reaches Korinthto say goodbye to his family. He fell in love with a dancer, Zenobia, as the festival in the temple was going on there. He had forgotten the mission, and years passed. At the Agora, he saw the wise men who returned after presenting gifts to infant Jesus. He feels guilty. He leaves his lover and sets sail to meet Jesus. Passing Ephesus and Miletus, the ship broke down. At Coos Island, he is caught by cannibals. Escaped from there continued the journey. Reached Galilee via, Patara, Myra, Paphos, and Cyprus is. His long travel experience is a direct reflection of that era.

In Galilee, Hjuvalos becomes a member of the court of scholars with his philosophical insight. His goal was to look for the prince, who he thought was the child of Jesus.

Scanning the scrolls, editing them, and recovering the inscriptions was very trying. Participating in Jewish religious ceremonies at Melka’s house gave him a new insight into their culture and traditions. Attempts to steal the scrolls from Zacss made them panic. How many times did they think all was lost? They secretly shifted the scroll research to the distant farmhouse of Jewish film producer Perus They followed their mission.

At Galilee, Hjuvalos was suspected as the spy of the neighboring state. He was deployed with the enslaved people for the construction of the fortress of Tiberias. After a decade of work, he became limp in an accident. He was abandoned on the street. He begged there. One chief among the Qumran community accidentally met him. He took care of him.  Impressed by his philosophy, wisdom and linguistic skill, Hjuvalos was taken with them to Qumran to translate the old testament into Greek. Once, Hjuvalos visited Jerusalem with the Qumran leaders to buy materials.

His description of taking part in the prayers in the Jerusalem temple is a nostalgic recollection of before it being destroyed. Hjuvalos had been once again with the group that had gone to Jerusalem. He was surprised to see his erstwhile lover Zenobia. They shared their past. She had fled to Galilee to find the prince even before he could. She became a court dancer. She became a prostitute. Eventually, she came across Jesus. She became his disciple with Martha and Maria. She took him home from Lazar and talked to him. He thought about the pledge to join the Qumran community that would be excusable. He returned to Qumran.

Due to the unsurpassable struggle of the mind, he decided to go out in search of Jesus. He rushed to meet Zenobia. The news from her shocked him and filled him with grief. Jesus was taken to Golgotha to be crucified. When he got there, Jesus was on the cross between two people on the crosses. Pushing aside the soldiers in a rush, he stepped forward and bowed with both hands at Jesus’s feet.

Pushed by the soldiers, he falls away. Jesus sees it. They see each other. He gets up. His lameness is healed. He has pushed away. Then Jesus said it is fulfilled. He felt guilty that he could not see Jesus earlier. Worried and retreating, a monk took him to his abode in the cave. Meanwhile, Yakin is killed before he completes the retrieving of the scroll. The scrolls were stolen. Rocky and Melka were interrogated as culprits by the police, but finally, Ruben Perus is caught. And attempt to destroy the only scroll about Jesus.

Rocky and Melka very adventurously find the lost scroll hidden in a cave in a farmhouse under police supervision. They get the last part of the Hjuvalos’ writing in the scroll. One day Jesus appeared to Hjuvalos who was meditating in the cave. “ You are searching for me. Be my witness”. Jesus said and disappeared.

To be a witness to Jesus, Hjuvalos has written the scroll about his journey in search of infant Jesus started from Athens, and finally, he saw Jesus on the cross and his appearance to him. That’s what Rocky and Melka found as the gospel of Hjuvalos, which ought to be the first gospel of the Bible. There are hints about what Jesus had revealed to him about future events and hid in another cave.

Melka also joins Rocky on his way back to California to get married there. They determined to return to Qumran and find the prophecy scroll given by Jesus.

The readers are kept in the ecstasy of suspense, thrill, and the glory of a nostalgic era and places. It is a pilgrimage through the Christian and Judaic religions, culture present, and first-century Holyland. The way of exploring the mysteries is marvelous. The manipulation of suspense and the exposure of the vast treasure of knowledge of the holy land in all its diversity makes the novel more attractive; and worth reading!

Jyoti Thottam’s Book Wins Christopher Award

Jyoti Thottam’s book shares the lives of six Sisters who traveled from Kentucky to India to establish a hospital more than seven decades back.

Indian –American author and journalist Jyoti Thottam was awarded the 74th Christopher Award for her book “Sisters of Mokama- The Pioneering Women Who Brought Hope and Healing to India” (Viking/Penguin Random House).

Her book highlights the story of the six Sisters of Charity of Nazareth nuns who established Nazareth Hospital in Mokama, Bihar. In 1947 the sisters served everyone, regardless of caste or religion, and offered new opportunities to women there looking to pursue careers in the medical field, according to the book release. Thottam’s mother was part of an extraordinary group of Indian women who challenged the odds and travelled to Bihar to train to be a nurse at Nazareth Hospital.

Fascinated by her mother’s inspiring journey, Thottam researched Nazareth Hospital and authored the book Sisters of Mokama, the release added.

The New York Times editor Thottam was Times South Asia Bureau Chief in New Delhi from 2008 to 2012, where she wrote numerous cover stories, including award-winning stories about the Ganges River and the Mumbai terrorist attacks, her profile shared.

India-born Thottam grew up in Texas and graduated from Yale and Columbia. She lives with her family in Brooklyn, her profile shared.

The Christophers is a nonprofit founded in 1945 by Maryknoll’s Father James Keller. The Christopher Awards celebrate writers, producers, directors, authors, and illustrators whose work affirms the highest values of the human spirit and reflects the Christopher motto.

Senior Friendship Group Chicago Enjoys Spring Weather

Senior Friendship Group Chicago had a wonderful start to the year 2023 with a successful tour to the Bharatiya Temple in Indiana and Four winds Casino in Michigan. The dedicated efforts of President Shri Harshadbhai Parekh, Pinkiben Thakkar, and committee members Dilipbhai Patel, Mukeshbhai Mehta, and Hemantbhai Amin made this trip a memorable experience for everyone.

Meghna Vora made sure that all arrangements were in place, including booking the entire casino system and providing every member with a $10 lunch card and a $15 card to play at the casino. Members relished the delectable spread of pizzas, burgers, burritos, nachos, French fries and Fresh Fruits, spending a happy four hours at the casino. Some members even won a good amount of cash, and many generously donated their winnings to support the senior group.

Senior Friendship Group Chicago one day trip to Bharatiya Temple and Four winds Casino event was on Sunday – April 08, 2023.  The day started at 7:30 am with a delicious tea-coffee, Papdi-Curry breakfast, served by Smitaben Parekh, Pinkiben Thakkar, and Nilaben Patel at D Park, 9229 W Emerson Street, Des Plaines IL. All members were punctual and cooperative throughout the day, and water service was provided by Rajendrabhai Shah. Asian Media USA captured the joyous moments of the day with his excellent video and photography skills. Members had a blast taking selfies and group photos.

The Senior Friendship Group sends out heartfelt prayers of gratitude, hoping that God keeps everyone healthy and wealthy. President Harshadbhai Parekh shared valuable information about the day’s itinerary during the bus ride, and Pinkiben Thakkar led the morning Ganesha source and sang the beautiful Ganesh Stuti, which was followed by all members singing Bhajans, cracking jokes, showcasing their mimicry skills, and singing movie songs with full enthusiasm. Time flew by in the bus as members played games like Antakshari and bonded over shared interests.

The day ended with a delicious dinner at the Big Suchir restaurant, and members parted ways with happy memories of the day. The Senior Friendship Group expresses its heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this trip possible and looks forward to more exciting adventures together.

Indo American Arts Council Announces Art Festival

The Indo-American Arts Council has announced its upcoming Literary Festival scheduled for November 2023. We will be celebrating and exploring the vibrant and diverse cultures of India through the written word, including works written by Indian and diaspora authors as well as those who have been inspired by the many facets of the country. We invite submissions of published books of poetry, fiction, non-fiction, drama and children’s literature that illuminate this year’s theme Courageously Creative. We are looking for works that examine and showcase the beauty, challenges, complexity, diversity and richness of Indian culture and its relationship to society, history, politics, spirit and the human experience. We accept original works in the languages of India with English translations.

Chosen entries will be featured in New York City at an in-person event, featuring renowned and emerging voices. These energetic, interactive discussions will be complemented by a series of recorded programs that will be exclusively launched on our online platform.

In the past, the IAAC Literary Festival has had the honor of hosting prominent authors such as Salman Rushdie, Suketu Mehta, Dr. Amartya Sen, Indra Nooyi, Barkha Dutt, Deepti Naval, Deepak Chopra, Anupam Kher, Rakesh Kaul, Dr. Ravi Shankar, Newbery Honor recipient Veera Hiranandani, Booker Nominee Avni Doshi,  Dr. Sudha Murthy, Narayan Hegde, Megha Majumdar, International Booker Prize winner Daisy Rockwell, Nobel Peace Prize Winner Dr. Kailash Satyarthi, Kal Penn, Vishakha Desai, Anupam Kher, Ambassador Haksar and Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor.

We have organized book launches for eminent authors such as Ramchandra Guha, and Madhur Jaffrey, and in 2021 launched Acrobat by Nandana Sen, and the official biography of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Interest in the IAAC Literary Festival has continued to garner international attention with its spotlight on topics such as Women’s Empowerment, Health & Wellness, Diversity, and Equity. IAAC strongly believes in sustaining community to help create a world where literature can thrive and has partnered with several prominent organizations such as Poets & Writers, Kundiman, and the Asian American Writers Workshop.

The only criteria besides a focus on India or work by an Indian or diaspora author is literary excellence, whether you are a children’s book author or a poet…

IAAC recognizes the impact that COVID-19 has had on the literary community. It has therefore expanded its support for artists generally and authors specifically. IAAC will:

  • Pay an author honorarium
  • Pay a moderator honorarium
  • Allocate a social media budget for each author on top of the IAAC marketing
  • Include the Publisher logo with approval in all IAAC media marketing
  • Include links to author and moderator social media handles

The Indo-American Arts Council is a not-for-profit arts organization passionately dedicated to promoting, showcasing, and building an awareness of the arts and artists whose heritage lies in the Indian subcontinent in the performing arts, visual arts, literary arts, and folk arts. IAAC supports all the artistic disciplines in classical, fusion, folk, and innovative forms influenced by the arts of India. They work cooperatively with colleagues around the United States to broaden collective audiences and create a network for shared information, resources and funding. The IAAC’s focus is to help artists and art organizations in North America as well as to facilitate artists from India to exhibit, perform and produce their work in the United States. www.iaac.us

Here is information on some of our past festivals: https://iaac.us/iaac-literary-festival-2022/

Petition To U.S. Postal Service For Issuing Yoga Stamp Launched

The Committee for Yoga/Meditation Stamp has been campaigning with US Postal Service since 2016, when I and a few friends joined to establish the organization. We have yet to see concrete results of that campaign. However, last year in a response dated May 26, 2022, the USPS informed the Committee that this topic remains under consideration as a possible future postage stamp. This topic will remain under consideration until the Citizen’s Stamp Advisory Committee (CSAC) assigns it to a program year.

We must press ahead to expand our lobbying for this ancient Indian practice, make it a household name, even though by now it is more popular in America than ever before.

Yoga is time-tested, scientifically embraced and globally accepted. Additionally, it has wide support and is of national interest. American physicians’ organizations like the American Medical Association, and Fortune 500 companies have advised and allowed its practice to their patients and employees for better physical and emotional well-being.

Many experienced people have made Yoga instruction their career. Higher educational institutions from Harvard, to Toronto and around the world have verified and approved the practice of Yoga.

Currently, 20-25% of the U.S. population with mental health issues can benefit from Yoga.

According to my estimate from research, 40 million Americans practice Yoga regularly, and an overwhelming number of Caucasian women are in that group.

I am a Doctor. I practice Yoga every day and I see the benefits of it. And the need for Yoga was heightened during the pandemic, during which I believe more people have used it and found it beneficial. And correctly so.

Our Committee has an ongoing online petition campaign on Change.org, and so far close to 500 people have sent petitions to USPS through that. And through snail-mail, we have received thousands of letters in support, and have forwarded them periodically to USPS.

We want to keep the pressure on. We have tried to make it so simple to sign on to the petition by just going on Google with the words – ‘Yoga stamp petition’

I also periodically attach articles from newspapers, magazines, etc., that speak of the benefits of Yoga, to the USPS.

Our Committee has also approached lawmakers, including the so-called ‘Samosa Caucus,’ of Indian-American elected leaders in Congress.

We need to do more. That is why I decided to write this appeal to our Indian-American and South Asian community – to join the campaign and approach your lawmakers and other influencers become part of the petition drive to the USPS, about issuing a Yoga stamp.

Yoga is an ascetic discipline, a part of which, rendering breath control, simple meditation and adoption of specific bodily posture, is widely practiced for health, relaxation, well-being and tranquility. It also leads to a life of self-discipline useful for holistic health of individuals and the world.

The committee requests all those in support of this campaign to write to the CSAC (Citizen’s Stamp Advisory Committee), 475 L’Enfant  Plaza SW # 3300 Washington, DC 20260-3501, or find us easily on Change.org to sign the petition. For further information, please call (301) 477-2990. (Dr. Shailendra Kumar, Chairman of the Committee for Yoga/Meditation Stamp.)

Ambani Cultural Center Inaugurated

The who’s who of the arts and entertainment world, both Indian and international, gathered for the grand inauguration of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) at the Jio World Gardens, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Mumbai, on Friday evening.

The Ambani family was in full attendance at the opening of Nita Ambani’s dream cultural project — Mukesh Ambani arrived with his daughter Esha and her father-in-law, Dilip Piramal, Akash Ambani came with wife Shloka Mehta, and Anant Ambani with fiancee Radhika Merchant.

Picture : India Forums

Topping the list of A-list attendees were ‘Euphoria’ star Zendaya in a flowing sultry deep blue sari with a playful floral border and gold-embellished blouse and supermodel Gigi Hadid, who exuded in the words of ‘Vogue’, “a modern Devdas look with an ivory and gold sari”, with a gold bangle stack and jewelled blouse to complete the look. Zendaya’s significant other, ‘Spider-Man’ Tom Holland, stuck to a black suit and bow tie.

The red carpet saw a procession of celebrities, from ‘Citadel’ star Priyanka Chopra and her husband Nick Jonas, who had landed in Mumbai on Friday afternoon, along with their daughter Malti Marie, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar (with wife Anjali and daughter Sara), to Bollywood’s Great Khans — Shah Rukh (with wife Gauri, Aaryan and Suhana), Salman, Aamir (dressed down in casual kurta and blue jeans, and with his many children).

The A-plus list included ‘Thalaivar’ Rajinikanth, who came in tees, jeans and sandals, Uddhav, Rashmi and Aditya Thackeray, celebrated sculptor Jeff Coons, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and daughter Aaradhya, ‘Never Have I Ever’ star Poorna Jagannathan, and the American supermodel Gigi Hadid.

Giving them competition in getting paparazzi attention were Saif Ali Khan and Kareena (striking in red), Ranveer Singh and Deepika (looking lovingly into each other’s eyes for the cameras), Alia Bhatt (with Mahesh Bhatt and Soni Razdan), Shahid Kapoor and Mira Rajput, Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, Ektaa Kapoor with father Jeetendra and brother Tusshar, Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon and Sonam Kapoor.

The centre opens with an exhibition titled ‘Sangam/Confluence’, which features the works of artists Bharti Kher, Bhupen Khakhar, Ranjani Shettar, Ratheesh T., and Shantibai, and international trend-setters such as Anselm Kiefer, Cecily Brown, Francesco Clemente, Lynda Benglis, and Raqib Shaw.

The second opening exhibition is centred around the world of fashion and history. Curated by Hamish Bowles, global editor-at-large, ‘Vogue’, and designed by Patrick Kinmonth and Rooshad Shroff, the exhibition will showcase Western couture inspired by India.

The Centre’s opening will also feature the expansive musical, ‘Civilization to Nation: The Journey of Our Nation’. Playwright and director Feroz Abbas Khan has put up this kaleidoscopic narration of Indian history and culture told through the Natya Shastra, the ancient Sanskrit treatise on the performing arts. This performance boasts over 700 performers and will feature dance, music, and puppetry.

Beautiful Dance Forms Of India

All Indian states have their own unique dances, but only six of these classical dances are acknowledged nationally in the country.

Indian folk dances are much more than just physical movements; in fact, since very early times, Indian classical dance has been regarded as a discipline and a means to devote oneself to God.

BIHU-ASSAM

The dancers move quickly with their hands, take fast steps, and swing their hips rhythmically while donning traditional Assamese attire and gorgeous accessories. Rangali Bihu, which ushers in the spring season, is celebrated with a performance of Bihu, celebrating Assamese joy and legacy. The traditional music for the show is played on the dhol, Xutuli, Toka, Baanhi, and Gogona.

LAVANI-MAHARASHTRA

Lavani is a Maharashtrian dance style that has its origins in the state of the Maratha kingdom. Traditional music and tales of deities are combined in the performance geared toward women. The word Lavanya, which signifies beauty, is where the name Lavani first appeared.

Picture : QUORA

GHOOMAR-RAJASTHAN

The people of Rajasthan perform their traditional dance form by dancing to the rhythm of the music while adorned in heavy jewellery and stunning costumes. Ghoomar uses intriguing circular hand motions in addition to his vocalisations.

ROUF-KASHMIR

Rouf, a calming dance style typically done by female dancers to the traditional Kashmiri music, is a dance form that the Kashmiri people use to celebrate their festivals and significant occasions.

GARBA-GUJARAT

Garba is a traditional dance style from Gujarat that is performed in honour of Goddess Durga during the auspicious Navratri festival. Sticks are used to execute this art form, which is done in a couple to the typical Gujarati music.

BHANGRA/GIDDA-PUNJAB

Bhangra is a heart-pumping performance from Punjab that is accompanied by raucous dhol beats (traditional Indian instrument). The customary Punjabi festivals are rife with it.

ODISSI-ODISHA

The province of Odisha in eastern India is where the odissi dance originated. The Hindu temples in Odisha are the source of the traditional performance. The majority of the gestures and moves (Mudras) are influenced by Indian temple idols and sculptures. The dance is done as a means of expressing Hindu Gods’ mythologies, such as those of Shiva and Surya.

KUCHIPUDI-ANDHRA PRADESH

Kuchipudi, an art form from Andhra Pradesh, is arguably the most difficult type of Indian traditional dance. Kuchipudi is not only regarded as a dance but as an entire religious practise devoted to God, complete with customs like praying to God, burning incense, and sprinkling holy water.

BHARATANATYAM-TAMIL NADU

Bharatnatyam is a South Asian dance style that is performed to heavenly Carnatic music melodies. It is a classical dance form that dates back to 1000 BC and was first done by women in Tamil Nadu’s ancient temples. The dance style is renowned for its exquisite hand motions and movements, or mudras as they are known in the local dialect. (IANS)

Cleopatra Comes To India

Not everyone thinks Cleopatra was so beautiful, But that’s how Julius Caesar said.

Cleopatra’s name is still remembered amongst so many other crucial things. Now BJP leader and former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi said that soap made from donkey milk would enhance the beauty of women. Menaka’s remarks were made in a speech delivered in Baldira, Uttar Pradesh.

Picture : News18

About 46 years ago, I read the masterpiece of the English drama, one of Shakespeare’s most tragic and love stories, Antony and Cleopatra. Truly, I could understand only less than fifty percent of its conversations. I understood much of Cleopatra’s wielding immense political power through her sexuality. I understood the rest of the story later watching the movie Cleopatra. This epic saga of romance, greed and betrayal was starred by Elizabeth Taylor, as the seductive Egyptian Queen who was determined to cling on to the throne, and seduce the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar (Rex Harrison). When Caesar was murdered, Cleopatra turned her affinity to his general Mark Antony (Richard Burton) immediately.

Cleopatra used to bathe in donkey’s milk, says Menaka in a speech that has gone viral on social media. Soap made from donkey’s milk costs Rs 500 in Delhi. Menaka asked why we didn’t start making donkey and goat milk soap. So let us think about the Queen of Denial with Menakaji.

Cleopatra was throned at the age of 17, and she died after 22 years. She spoke nine languages. She also knew to read Egypt’s hieroglyphics and unique writing in Egypt. She also knew Greek and most of the languages ​​in the Mediterranean region, including Hebrews and Arabs.

With this vast knowledge, the world encyclopedia was open wide to her.

Apart from languages, she mastered alchemy, medicine, zoology, economics, geography, history, astronomy, international diplomacy, mathematics, and many other disciplines to access all the knowledge of her time up to date. Not that much alone.

Cleopatra spent much of her time in a special type of ancient laboratory. She wrote some findings related to herbs and beauty products. Unfortunately, all her books were destroyed in the fire of the great Library of Alexandria in 391 AD. The famous physicist Galen really had a chance to study her research work and could transcribe many of the recipes devised by Cleopatra. A special cream that could help bald men re-grow their hair was a notable one. Galen also recommended remedies that included beauty tips, but none came to the open world.

The queen of Egypt was a genius who was also interested in herbal healing. Thanks to her knowledge of languages, she had access to numerous papyri that are lost today. Her influence on the sciences and medicine was well-known in the early centuries of Christianity. It is believed that Cleopatra killed herself by allowing an Egyptian Cobra to bite her. Still, for the Roman-era writers Strabo, Plutarch, and Cassius Dio affirmed that Cleopatra poisoned herself using either a toxic ointment or by introducing the poison with a sharp implement such as a needle.

Cleopatra’s death has evoked themes of eroticism and sexuality in works that include paintings, plays, and films, especially from the Victorian era. Modern works depicting Cleopatra’s death include Orientalist painting, Neoclassical sculpture and cinema. Wax statue of Cleopatra on display at Tussaud’s London Wax Museum is a popular attraction.

And now Menakaji at least remembered the beauty Queen Cleopatra when she remembered donkey’s milk, nothing political! I still don’t know whether Cleopatra bathed in donkey’s milk, but surely, that name will fetch good market if a soap comes out with that ingredient.

Though so much funny stories roam around, without a doubt, Cleopatra is a unique figure in the history of humanity. Thanks Menakaji for reminding the legend and beauty Queen Cleopatra to live in Indian History in the future soap days.

‘City Of Faith’ Exhibit Celebrates South Asian Religion In NYC

(RNS) — In 2012, Erika Menendez shoved Sunando Sen, 46, onto the New York City subway tracks in front of an oncoming train.  A new exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York suggests the city can’t be understood without religion.

“I pushed a Muslim off the train tracks because I hate Hindus and Muslims ever since 2001 when they put down the twin towers I’ve been beating them up,” she is quoted as having told police shortly after the fatal crime. Sen was born in India and raised Hindu.

In popular culture, New York City is often portrayed as distinctly secular. But “City of Faith: Religion, Activism, and Urban Space,” a new exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York, suggests that the city — and the public spaces, scents, acts of solidarity and, yes, the hate crimes therein — can’t be understood without religion.

“I think religion is a subtext in the various spaces and conversations where we imagined it to be absent,” the exhibition’s curator, Azra Dawood, told Religion News Service in a recent interview at the museum. “And I’m really hoping that the exhibition surfaces some of the ways in which religion is actually a part of the city.”

Curator Azra Dawood with the “City of Faith: Religion, Activism, and Urban Space” exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York. RNS photo by Kathryn Post

Picture : RNS

With a collection of original portraits, maps and interactive installations (featuring curated scents and soundtracks), Dawood challenges New York’s nonreligious reputation, arguing that the city’s perceived secularism is really covert Protestantism. Against this backdrop — in which Protestantism dominates (via land, money and politics) and Catholic and Jewish communities have made inroads — South Asian communities can become both indistinguishable and hypervisible.

As a Muslim and South Asian woman, Dawood is personally familiar with this dynamic, and as an architectural historian, she often considers how religion shows up in concrete and visible ways.

“(Religion) is not siloed off in explicitly religious institutions, such as churches, synagogues, temples, mosques,” Dawood observed. “You find it in the city’s shared public spaces, on streets and sidewalks and waterways, foodways.”

Dawood pointed to Johannes Eisele’s photo of a man praying next to a halal food cart in midtown Manhattan as an example of unexpected religion featured in the exhibit.

“The halal food carts began as a way of providing cheap halal food to Muslim communities working in different kinds of businesses,” she said. “Now it’s a gastronomic delight for all New Yorkers.”

Photographs displayed throughout the exhibit highlight how minority religious communities refuse to be boxed in by stereotypes. Photographed portraits by MIPSTERZ, a Muslim arts and culture collective, show Muslims grinning and striking poses in New York’s public landscape to reclaim the space. Portraits of New York-based Sikhs by Amit Amin and Naroop Jhooti celebrate people such as former NYC subway operator Sat Hari Singh. Singh, who saved 800 lives by reversing his train during 9/11, also successfully sued the Metropolitan Transportation Authority after it required employees to brand their religious headgear with MTA logos. These images provide a counterpoint to reductionist narratives.

While majority religions have the luxury of blending into a cultural landscape, the exhibit suggests Sikh, Hindu and Muslim groups don’t have that privilege. The flattening and racialized profiling of these communities is captured in the installation “CURB,” a sprawling book of poems encased in glass and placed in the center of one of the exhibit’s two rooms.

The poems — shown here as part of a limited-edition illustrated book that expands several feet when opened — explore violence against South Asian Americans in U.S. public spaces and are presented alongside two short films inspired by the poems.

Poet Divya Victor, who was also an adviser on the exhibition, describes her poems as emerging from “the long wake of the Patriot Act,” the era of the Muslim registry and the Trump administration’s anti-immigrant policies.

“I knew that poets and writers would need to begin paying special attention to surveillance, spectatorship, supremacist vigilance, and monetized public confession,” she told RNS. “I also knew that I needed to document the fear that my family members began to experience in public spaces with the rise of anti-immigrant and specifically anti-Asian acts.”

“City of Faith: Religion, Activism, and Urban Space” is now open at the Museum of the City of New York. RNS photo by Kathryn Post

Victor added that the poems, which are available in paperback, also reflect the resistance to “both white and Hindu supremacist forces” taking root in South Asian communities.

Though the exhibit largely focuses on moments of beauty and solidarity among South Asian communities, it doesn’t shy away from grappling with the fraught realities of anti-Blackness and the legacy of the caste system. South Asian artist Utsa Hazarika’s “Pilgrims/This Is Not That Dawn,” for instance, is a commissioned multimedia piece that explores the complex relationship between Black and South Asian communities in America.

Beneath a large, stylized image of a stamp from India depicting Martin Luther King Jr., museumgoers are invited to put on headphones and hear the soundtrack Hazarika designed. Listeners overhear Martin Luther King Jr. reflect on his encounter with the caste system during his 1959 trip to India and are reminded by comedian Hasan Minhaj of how the civil rights movement paved the way for the growth of South Asian communities in the U.S.

“The only reason so many of us are here is because of the Immigration Act of ’65. That law rode the wave of the Civil Rights Act of ’64,” Minhaj says in the soundtrack.   A Love Supreme (2022)” is a scent installation commissioned from perfumer and author Tanaïs, on display at the Museum of the City of New York. The piece is made of hand-braided Nepali lokta paper dipped in fragrant oils and filled with powdered incense. It is inspired by speculation that John Coltrane’s album “A Love Supreme” refers to the phrase “Allah Supreme.” RNS photo by Kathryn Post

“The exchanges between American civil rights activists and the anti-colonial movement in South Asia mark a period of internationalism that has largely fallen away from mainstream consciousness,” Hazarika told RNS in an email. “In the United States specifically, the potential of these movements has been obscured by both a loss of this internationalist history, and the racial structure within which South Asians have often tended towards a proximity to whiteness, rather than embracing their anti-colonial histories to oppose racialized violence.”

Other installations — such as the bold-colored portraits of South Asian American feminist activists by artist and South Asian Women’s Creative Collective founder Jaishri Abichandani — also uplift examples of South Asian activism both within and beyond cultural and religious circles.

Though New York is filled with the art, architecture, collective action and history of South Asian communities, this is the first exhibit at the century-old Museum of the City of New York to focus on them, according to Dawood. She hopes this exhibit, which closes in October, will prompt people to recognize the vibrant religious expressions of South Asian groups and to observe the subtle ways religion operates in the world around them.

“It is often really difficult to talk about religion. … I hope the exhibition shows how multilayered the conversation about religion is, and how much it’s a part of our landscape.”

Indian American Doctor Honored For Blending Cardiology With Yoga

Renowned Indian American cardiologist and cardiac electrophysiologist, Dr. Indranill Basu Ray, was awarded a Doctor of Science in Yoga by S-VYASA (Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana), a leading institution in the field of yoga research and education.

The institute recognizes Dr. Ray’s contributions to the field of integrative medicine and his efforts to popularize the health benefits of yoga. “Dr. Basu Ray’s medical expertise has helped him develop a unique perspective on the role of yoga in healthcare,” a news release noted.

Picture : TheUNN

The prominent Indian-American cardiologist had presented a new method at the Indian Science Congress (ISC) in Bengaluru in 2020 to test the effectiveness of yoga as an intervention for treating many diseases. Indranill Basu Ray, a cardiac electrophysiologist at the Veterans Hospital in Memphis, US, presented the “new protocol” at the 107th ISC to be held from January 3-7.

“We proved tobacco was toxic not by doing clinical trials, but by following people who smoke and showing they develop a particular type of lung cancer — it would have been almost impossible to prove this using an RCT other than being phenomenally costly,” he said.

Ray claimed that “same is true for yoga, as a person who has a disease like hypertension that is due to chronic adaptation to stress may be treated with a yoga protocol to eliminate the disease.” With advanced molecular biology and commercially available wearable devices, the adaptive stress-response can be measured with yoga by monitoring hormone levels, a well-established biomarker of stress, Kolkata-born Ray said.

Mathew Veedon Joins  Indo-American Arts Council Advisory Board

The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), the organization dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the arts in North America, announced today the induction of strategic corporate leader, Mathew Veedon to its prestigious advisory board.

“Many of our members have followed Veedon’s career to date and we are extremely grateful for this opportunity to welcome him to the IAAC board,” said Dr. Nirmal K. Mattoo, Chairman, IAAC. “As a notable leader, he brings a unique background and perspective. I personally look forward to benefiting from his expertise and guidance.”

Mathew Veedon is a well-known and respected leader with over 25 years of consulting, operating and investing experience across a broad range of industries including consumer goods, healthcare and technology. He focuses on high intervention situations, turnarounds and major transformations for portfolio companies of leading private equity firms.

“Today’s business leaders have to deal with cultural diversity, find opportunities amongst chaos, and tell stories to communicate effectively. These attributes resonate with the IAAC mission to expose North America to the culturally-rich heritage and creativity that India has to offer,” said Mathew Veedon. “This organization’s work is crucial for nurturing and preserving the arts, fostering cross-cultural ties and growing the global economy. I’m privileged to join this esteemed board and look forward to helping to expand the organization’s reach and impact.”

Upon his induction onto the board, Veedon will focus on raising notability and awareness of IAAC within its core constituencies, namely its valued members and its supporters which includes both patrons and corporate sponsors throughout the business world.

“Our board of directors is made up of a dedicated team committed to raising awareness of the artists, whose heritage lies in the Indian subcontinent, and those who are leading the charge to enhance the performing, visual, literary and folk arts in the greater North American region,” said Rakesh Kaul, Vice Chairman, IAAC. “With his vast network and exceptional management expertise, I am confident that Mathew will be a champion for these artists. We are especially delighted that IAAC will have an equal advisor in his spouse, Elizebeth, who is a noted author of science and technology books and was featured at the IAAC Literary Festival 2022.”

Mathew Veedon is a Managing Director at Accordion with over 25 years of consulting, operating, and investing experience across a broad range of industries including consumer goods, healthcare, and technology. He focuses on high intervention situations, turnarounds and major transformations for portfolio companies of leading private equity firms. He has worked with senior executives on cost reduction, business reorganization, merger integration and synergy estimation.

Before joining Accordion, Mathew was the CFO for Corsicana Mattress Company, where he was involved in acquiring a competitor, restructuring the balance sheet and effecting a change of control. At Keyrock Partners, he focused on early-stage growth companies to unlock value with IoT, Cloud and Blockchain technologies. Mathew was also a Senior Advisor to Quest Turnaround advisors and a partner at Redding Consultants. Prior to joining Redding, Mathew was a Principal of NGV Partners Fund LLC, a seed stage technology fund and portfolio manager of Sachem Ventures. Mathew began his career with positions at Arthur Andersen and Accenture.

Mathew graduated from Sydenham College in Mumbai, India. He is a Chartered Accountant and holds an M.B.A. in Finance with a Strategy concentration from Yale University. He lives in New York and is an avid runner, who has completed five marathons.

The IAAC supports all the artistic disciplines in classical, fusion, folk and innovative forms influenced by the arts of India. We work cooperatively with colleagues around the U.S. to broaden our collective audiences and to create a network for shared information, resources and funding. Our focus is to help artists and art organizations in North America as well as to facilitate artists from India to exhibit, perform and produce their work here. The IAAC is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. For information, please visit www.iaac.us .

How Breathing Benefits Your Entire Body & Mind

Breathing is a fundamental and automatic process that sustains life. It’s a process that happens without conscious effort, but with a little bit of intention, we can use it to benefit our overall health and well-being. Breathing is the bridge between mind and body, therefore it forms the cornerstone therapy of Mind Body Medicine, a pillar of Wellness at Kshemavana.

There are several different types of breathing techniques, each with its own unique benefits. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and widely used breathing techniques and their benefits.

Breath control is described by the Sanskrit word pranayama. It’s a technique that originated in ancient India and is widely practiced in yoga. Pranayama breathing involves controlled breathing, using specific patterns and rhythms to regulate the flow of air in and out of the body. Traditional yoga texts describe various pranayama techniques to regulate breathing. Dr. Narendra Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer of Kshemavana shares few pranayamas one can practice depending on specific needs.

Ujjayi/ Ocean’s Breath

Ocean’s Breath provides a quick way to help yourself get unstuck if you’ve been experiencing depression. Inhale through your mouth, pull in your chin so that your throat feels somewhat constricted and touches the chest, exhale while releasing the chin up, and then deliberately and mindfully inhale and exhale through your nose. At least five to ten times should be repeated.

Benefits:

It soothes the nervous system

Calms the mind and increases psychic sensitivity.

It relieves insomnia

Slows down the heart rate

Lowers blood pressure.

Although it is a calming pranayama, it also has a heating effect that encourages oxidation.

Shitali

You can use Shitali to calm yourself down when things become tense, whether emotionally or when the summer heat is at its peak. Roll your tongue in a straw-like motion. Exhale through your nose after holding the inhalation for a few seconds. Repeat.

Benefits:

Reduces excessive pitta.

Lowers body temperature and eliminates surplus heat.

Sparks the appetite and encourages healthy digestion.

Reduces excessive acidity in the gastrointestinal tract.

Relieves inflammatory skin disorders.

Assists in reducing inflammation all over the body.

Promotes mental tranquility by soothing and calming the mind.

Shitkari

You can cool down and calm your nerves by using the yogic breathing technique known as Shitkari. Roll your tongue backward where the tip of the tongue touches the inner edge of the upper palate. Breathe in through the sides of the rolled tongue and close your mouth. Exhale through your nose. Repeat.

Benefits:

Holistic Balance of the Mind and The Body.

It harmonizes the body’s Pitta (Fire Element).

Enhances Mental Health

Removes Heat from the Outside.

Promotes healthy digestion.

Fevers Treatment and Potential Cure.

Reduces high blood pressure.

Detoxifies the entire bodily system and reduces toxins.

Brahmari

If you want to unwind and let go of tension in your body, try using the humming bee breath. Simple yoga breathing techniques include taking a deep breath in through your nose and exhaling with an audible humming sound. One can close your ears with the tip of your index finger as one makes a humming sound. Feel the vibration within.

Benefits:

Reduces stress.

Improves sleep quality.

Increases mindfulness.

Reduces high blood pressure.

Improves lung function.

Enhances cognitive function

Good for Substance abuse as it reduces cravings

Bastrika

To relieve tension and stress, practice Bastrika Pranayama. It also produces a great deal of heat, which can aid in calorie burning for your body. Inhale through your nose while seated in a Lotus position. Force your breath to leave your body through your belly as if it were a “bellows” when you exhale. Do this vigorously for ten breaths, then inhale deeply, hold the breath, and exhale slowly.

Benefits:

Benefits the respiratory and digestive systems.

Drains excess phlegm from the lungs.

Improves blood oxygenation, giving all tissues and organs a boost in vitality.

Strengthens and tones the area around the abdomen.

It soothes the mind.

Energizes the entire body and mind.

Alternate Nostril Breathing

Alternate Nostril Breathing is a type of pranayama breathing technique that involves breathing through each nostril alternatively. It’s believed that this type of breathing helps balance the right and left hemispheres of the brain, resulting in a calm and centered state of mind.

Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Improves mental clarity and focus

Balances the nervous system

Increases energy and vitality

Diaphragmatic Breathing

Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, is a technique that focuses on deep breathing from the diaphragm, which is the muscle located at the bottom of the ribcage. In diaphragmatic breathing, the diaphragm expands and contracts, causing the lungs to fill with air, resulting in deep, slow breaths.

Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Improves sleep quality

Enhances respiratory and cardiovascular health

Boosts the immune system

Slow Breathing

Slow breathing is a technique that involves taking slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth. It is a quick and easy method that can be used at any time and anywhere.

Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Improves respiratory function

Lowers blood pressure

Enhances mental clarity and focus

Box Breathing

Box Breathing is a simple but effective breathing technique that involves taking four equal breaths, each with a specific count. The process involves inhaling for four counts, holding the breath for four counts, exhaling for four counts, and holding the breath again for four counts. This process is repeated several times to achieve the desired level of relaxation.

Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Improves sleep quality

Enhances respiratory and cardiovascular health

Increases mental clarity and focus

4-7-8 Breathing

The 4-7-8 breathing technique is a simple and effective technique that involves counting each inhale, hold, and exhale. The process involves inhaling for four counts, holding the breath for seven counts, and exhaling for eight counts. This process is repeated several times to achieve the desired level of relaxation.

Benefits:

Reduces stress and anxiety

Improves sleep quality

Enhances respiratory and cardiovascular health

Increases mental clarity and focus

Animal Breathing

Bunny Breathing: To increase the amount of oxygen getting to your brain, take several briefs, and rapid breaths.

Bumble Bee Breathing: Slow breaths and buzzing can help reduce your heart rate and stress level.

Lion Breathing: To let out frustration and rage, take long, deep breaths and roar.

Bear Breathing: To induce a state of tranquility and restfulness, concentrate on holding your breath.

Crocodile Breathing: Deep belly breathing can be achieved by using yoga asanas like Makarasana.

Mindful breathing

If you suffer from anxiety, stress, insomnia, or high blood pressure, you might want to try mindful breathing. In order to use this technique effectively, one must fully focus their attention on their breathing. There are many different types of mindful breathing. One straightforward technique is to simply pay attention to your breath’s natural rhythm, without attempting to alter it. The breathing may naturally slow down as a result of this.

To perform mindful breathing, a person should:

find a quiet place without distractions

choose a comfortable position, ideally sitting or lying down

focus on breathing by feeling and listening to the body inhale and exhale.

Be able to let thoughts go through your mind without passing judgment.

Alternatives

Breathing techniques should never replace medical treatment. With other therapies, these exercises function best. Exercise to improve breathing may be a component of pulmonary rehabilitation for lung conditions. Exercise, physical therapy, and health information may also be a part of the treatment.

Each person will experience stress and anxiety differently. Therapy, drugs, and mindfulness practices are all potential treatment options. In stressful circumstances or to establish a regular sleep schedule, breathing exercises may help reduce stress.

Numerous medical conditions, especially stress, and anxiety, can be helped by breathing exercises. When they are a regular part of your schedule, they work best.

When people are relaxed and breathing normally, they can experiment with breathing techniques for the first time. They might benefit from practicing at the same time each day. It may take some practice to become accustomed to a breathing exercise. (IANS)

FIA’s 39th Dance Pe Chance Held

More than 500 participants from 22 community dance academies spread across four states enthralled a crowd of 1000-plus people in their drive to win at the Federation of Indian Associations’ flagship Dance Pe Chance competition.

Groups performing at the February 18, 2023 Dance Pe Chance event.. Photo: FIA

The event was held Sunday, February 18, 2023, at the Patriots War Memorial Theater in Trenton, New Jersey.

Picture : TheUNN

Held for the 39th year, Dance Pe Chance has given members of the Indian American community a platform to display their talent, discipline, technique, and costumes at the much anticipated event, organizers said in a press release.

India’s Consul General in New York Randhir Jaiswal addressing the gathering along with FIA committee members, organizers and sponsors at the Dance Pe Chance event Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

Ages  6  through  60+ years took to the state-of-the-art stage, enabling professional-grade production, and including LED spot lighting, sound, as well as a 50 feet LED  backdrop.

The FIA Dance Pe Chance event of Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey attracted about 1,000 people. Photo: FIA

In the 22 performances, participants displayed a variety of cultures and traditions, including languages, in the performances consisting of a fusion of classical, folk, and contemporary dance compilations.

Dance Pe Chance 2023, FIA’s flagship event held Feb. 18, was anchored by Miss India PA – Charmy Shah, left, and Veteran RJ, and popular anchor and host Mamta Narula. Photo: FIA

Divided into four categories comprising minors, juniors, seniors, and adults, the teams competed within their age groups. The event was anchored by Miss India PA – Charmy Shah, as well as   popular anchor and host Mamta Narula.

FIA’s Dance Pe Chance 2023 judge Guru Smt. Swathi Atluri, Renowned Kuchipudi dancer, choreographer addressing the gathering Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

This year’s judging panel comprised Bollywood choreographer Rohan Virdi, Kuchipudi exponent and guru Swati Alluri, as well as local choreographer Mitali Das.

Consul General of India in New York Randhir Jaswal was the Chief Guest. Also in attendance were Jaipur Foot Chairman Prem Bhandari, former Congressman of New Jersey Michael J. Pappas, Padma Awardee and FIA Advisor Dr. H. R. Shah, and  community leader Peter Kothari among other distinguished guests.

India’s Consul General Randhir Jaiswal addressing the gathering along with FIA committee members, organizers and sponsors at the Dance Pe Chance event Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

Consul General Jaiswal expressed his joy at being a part of the event and praised the performances and performers for their hard work to excel at Dance Pe Chance. He wished that the event would continue to grow with each passing year for the coming decades and provide a platform, noting that more than  19,000 children have participated in the past 39 years.

Aum Dance Creations holds the title of 3rd Winner in the Senior category at the FIA Dance Pe Chance competition held Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

Pappas also thanked FIA for the experience of impressive talent, and praised FIA for organizing a youth-oriented event on such a large scale and at a venue known to hold historical events, the press release said.

Prem Bhandari expressed his happiness and joy in witnessing the participation of diverse communities and thanked  FIA for providing the kids with such an ‘incredible’ platform.

FIA members with Nirmiti School of Dance with Happy Feet at Dance Pe Chance 2023, held Feb. 18, 2023, in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

President of FIA Kenny Desai praised all the judges, sponsors, and members of the FIA executive team and the Dance Pe Chance team for their ‘arduous’ efforts in putting together this gigantic event.

FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya thanked the sponsors, the FIA Executive team, and the Dance Pe Chance team led by FIA Vice Presidents Saurin Parikh, Nishi Dhami, and Priti Patel. He described the joy of seeing over 500 children show  sportsmanship, for which he thanked the parents, the choreographers, and all the participants.

FIA Vice President & Dance Pe Chance Chair Saurin Parikh congratulated all sponsors, media partners, and the Indian Consul General in New York for their continued support.

Also in attendance were  Past President & Board of Trustee  Srujal Parikh, FIA Vice President Dr. Avinash Gupta, FIA Gen. Secretary Nishi Dhami, FIA Treasurer Priti Patel, FIA Jt. Treasurer Mahesh Dubal, FIA Joint Secretary Haresh Shan FIA Past President Alok Kumar, and other notable community members

One of the groups performing at the February 18, 2023 Dance Pe Chance event organized by FIA in New Jersey. Photo: FIA

Mementos, trophies, and prizes totaling $20,000.00 were awarded during the event. The sponsors included River Comics, Parikh Worldwide Media, TV Asia, Bansal Foundation, Arista Care, Mehta Foundation, and Media Partners ITV Gold, TV Asia, South Asian Times, Radio Zindagi, and Indian Panorama, and The Indian Eye.

“FIA’s vision thru such grass root initiatives is to connect the next generation of Americans of Indian origin with our culture and the native motherland,” the organization said.

Winners of Dance Pe Chance 2023

Category

Prize/Trophy Category

Dance School

Sequence

Minors

3rd place:-

BollyMoves Dance Academy

M2

2nd place:-

Aum Dance Creations

M6

1st place:-

Rudra Dance Academy

M7

Juniors

3rd place:-

Dancing Shiva

J1

2nd place:-

BollyMoves Dance Academy

J2

1st place:-

Aum Dance Creations

J4

Seniors :-

3rd place:-

Aum Dance Creations

S4

2nd place:-

Sanskruti School of Dance Academy

S3

1st place:-

Rudra Dance Academy

S5

Adults :-

3rd place:-

DanceXstudio

A2

2nd place:-

Nirmiti School of Dance with Happy Feet

A4

1st place:-

Rudra Dance Academy

A6

Rising Star:-

1st place:-

Shehnaaz Dance Academy

M5

Best Choreography:-

Rudra Dance Academy

S5

Best Costume:-

Nirmiti School of Dance with Happy Feet

A4

 

Kumar Gallery presents 27 MASTERS

Kumar Gallery is pleased to present 27 MASTERS, a group show of master artists spanning from the Bengal school, J P Gangooly, Jamini Roy, Bireswar Sen; to Progressives M F Husain, F N Souza, S H Raza, Krishen Khanna, K H Ara, Ram Kumar, Akbar Padamsee; to tantric abstractionists G R Santosh, Biren De, Sohan Qadri; to important modernists K S Kulkarni, N S Bendre, A Ramachandran, J Swaminathan, B Prabha, Satish Gujral, Sakti Burman, George Keyt, A P Santhanaraj, Badri Narayan, Jatin Das; to eminent sculptors Amar Nath Sehgal, Prodosh Das Gupta, Sankho Chaudhuri, and Dhanraj Bhagat.

Picture : TheUNN

Works in the exhibition span themes relevant to 2023. Ramachandran’s Visions of War, with its reflections on propaganda, ideology, religion, history, and the specter of nuclear war has never since World War II been more relevant on account of the Ukraine War. The exhibition invites viewers to further reflect upon themes of the vitality of life as expressed through sexuality in art, the historical socioeconomic fabric of India, and the integration of philosophy into modern life.

Exhibition opens online on February 5th 5PM IST. Select works will be on exhibit at Kumar Gallery Hotel Hyatt Regency & Kumar Gallery Sainik Farms (By Appointment)

Mr. Virendra Kumar Jain of Kumar Gallery is the pioneer in promoting contemporary Indian art in our country as well as abroad. Most of the top ranking artists of today owe their beginnings to him. It was due to relentless efforts Kumar made in creating awareness of modern vocabulary of the mode of painting that has made it possible for most of us to find a niche in the history of world art. What our society has gained through such developments is too obvious to mention. – Satish Gujral

This essay pays tribute to a champion and great supporter of Modern Indian Art, Shri Virendra Kumar, founder of Kumar Gallery. With the dizzying ascent and soaring value of the market for Modern Indian Art in recent years, it is all too easy for connoisseurs to defer to price as a proxy for aesthetic value. Yet Modern was once Contemporary, and there was a time when the evolution of style was the result of a hard-won struggle against the prevailing commercial trends. It was precisely at those crossroads in the history of India that Virendra acted as the principal tastemaker and visionary patron for serious, avant-garde artistic expression.

Picture : TheUNN

Virendra Kumar was born on 26 January 1933 to an illustrious and philanthropic Jain family. For generations the family had provided patronage to musicians, sculptors, and painters, architects and had commissioned numerous temples. Most notable amongst direct patrilineal ancestors of the family were Raja Harsukh Rai (1740 – 1807) and his great grandfather Deep Chand Sah, who respectively built the Naya Mandir and Lal Mandir in Delhi, and the latter of whom was the treasurer for the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Oral histories of the family trace the lineage back further to influential Jain traders during the Tomara dynasty (8th – 12th centuries), principally located in the area where the Qutb Minar is now located.

In many ways, known and unknown, the shape of what we now understand as Modern Indian Art was shaped by the efforts of Virendra Kumar and his brothers at Kumar Gallery. Their contributions as promoters and tastemakers came precisely at the hour of need for the first generation of contemporary artists in independent India’s.

Virendra’s comprehensive patronage and unwavering belief that Indian artists could compete with their Western contemporaries was the quintessential catalyst that manifested the latent potential of India’s nascent artistic ecosystem. In recognition of the role that Virendra Kumar played, and in appreciation of his sincerity and resolve, M.F. Husain, termed him, ‘The Kahnweiller of Indian Contemporary Art.’ For more details, please visit: https://kumargallery.com/about-us/

Famous Mughal Gardens At India’s Rashtrapati Bhavan To Be Renamed

The world famous Mughal Gardens at the President’s official home, Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi is being renamed with a common name as part of the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” celebrations. The old road sign that said “Mughal Gardens” was removed and taken away in a bulldozer last week.

“On the occasion of the celebrations of 75 years of Independence as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the President of India has given a common name to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Gardens as Amrit Udyan,” Deputy Press Secretary to the President Navika Gupta said.

While the BJP said the renaming shreds yet another symbol of colonialism, the opposition parties advised the government to focus on creating jobs and controlling inflation instead. The Congress did not officially react to the name change, but the Trinamool Congress and CPI rubbished the move, with the Left party terming it an “attempt to rewrite history”.

“Who knows, they might now want to rename the Eden Gardens and call it Modi Gardens! They should focus on creating jobs, controlling inflation and protecting the precious resources of LIC and SBI,” Trinamool Congress’ Parliamentary party leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O’Brien told news agency PTI. CPI general secretary D Raja said this name change has been going on for quite some time and “no one knows when it will end”.

There are three gardens in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, inspired by Mughal and Persian gardens. The public and the authorities started calling the one inspired by a garden with the same name in Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar as “Mughal Gardens”. But the gardens were never officially named “Mughal Gardens”.

Spread over 15 acre, Amrit Udyan has often been portrayed as the soul of the presidential palace. Amrit Udyan draws its inspiration from the Mughal Gardens in Jammu and Kashmir, the gardens around the Taj Mahal and even miniature paintings of India and Persia, according to the Rashtrapati Bhavan’s website.

“The Amrit Udyan had up till now been opened for the public only during the annual festival, Udyan Utsav, held in the months of February-March. But the gardens, which forms the third circuit of the Rashtrapati Bhavan tour, will now be open for the public from August till March,” the Rashtrapati Bhavan’s website says.

“Welcome and thank President Droupadi Murmu ji for renaming the iconic gardens at the President House as Amrit Udyan. This new name not only shreds yet another symbol of colonial relic but also reflects India’s aspirations for the amrit kaal,” Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan tweeted.

The old road sign that said “Mughal Gardens” was removed with a bulldozer and a new board that said “Amrit Udyan” was installed.

Decorating Deities Is “A Calling” For This Hindu Temple Artist

(AP) — A computer science graduate, S. Goutham quit his job nearly a decade ago to pursue his calling. He has since followed in the footsteps of his ancestors as a fifth-generation decorator of temple deities. The former computer professional — now a very specialized type of artist — locked his gaze on the deity before him.

On a recent afternoon, 33-year-old S. Goutham was perched on a ladder at the altar of the goddess Durga at the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Chennai, India. Goutham — his hand moving steadily — was pleating a green silk sari to adorn the deity.

“You cannot get tense when you are doing this work,” he says. “You can’t do this if you are not patient. You need to become one with her.”

A computer science graduate, Goutham quit his job nearly a decade ago to pursue his calling. He has since followed in the footsteps of his ancestors as a fifth-generation decorator of temple deities.

Picture : Philedelphia Tribune

In Hindu temples, idols are mostly made of materials such as black granite, white marble or five-metal alloys that have sacred significance. These deities are worshipped as physical, tangible representations of god (Brahman) who is believed to be infinite, omnipresent and beyond comprehension. Worship in a Hindu temple includes bathing these deities in milk, decorating them with colorful clothes, flowers, perfumes such as sandalwood, jewelry, and even weapons such as swords, clubs and tridents. Oil lamps are lit at the altar, and sacred chants and foods are offered to the gods.

Decorating the deities is a millennia-old practice that is described in the Hindu epic Ramayana, and Goutham has been learning the art since he was a toddler. He crafted his first formal decoration when he was 13 — at the very altar where he stood 20 years later on a day in November.

He has done thousands of decorations, ranging from relatively simple ones that take an hour or two to complete, to others that are more complex and take several days.

Goutham said he became interested in decorating deities as a child because of his father. “When you are little, your father is your hero,” he said. “I wanted to be just like him.”

The first lesson Goutham got from his dad was about the weapons each god would hold. He heard stories about the power of each weapon and how gods would wield them. “The personality of the deity and the story of the god or goddess could change depending on their weapons, the clothes they wear, the expression on their face or the position in which they are sitting or standing,” he said.

When he sets out to decorate a deity, Goutham says he has a concept of what to do, but doesn’t start out with a sketch. He goes step by step — placing the deity’s hands, feet and weapons. Then, he moves on to the clothes and jewelry. Gradually, the god’s form manifests.

There are rules about the types of materials that can be used on deities. “The human body is made up of earth, water, fire, air and space, and everything you see naturally occurring on Earth is made of these elements,” Goutham said. “To show this, we decorate deities using things that occur in nature and are a representation of these elements, like copper, cloth, coconut fibers and so on.”

He says decorating a deity combines elements from art, dance and yoga, in terms of the hand gestures and postures the deities assume. Man-made materials such as plastic are prohibited. Goutham says he uses little pins to hold fabric together, but makes sure the pins don’t directly touch the idol.

He sources the deities’ arms and legs, mostly made from copper or brass, as well as the weapons and jewelry, from artisans.

He has also created an app and website for those who wish to learn more about this art and dreams of establishing an institution to train artists who can maintain the sacred tradition. While most deity decorators are men, he sees no reason why women cannot learn and practice it.

“Everyone is equal under god,” he said. Storytelling is an important part of what he does. One of his favorite installations depicts the friendship between Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu, and Kuchela.

“It shows Krishna washing the feet of Kuchela, a poor man, conveying the message that humility is a virtue — whether you are a human being or god,” Goutham said.

The term “idol worship” may have negative connotations in some faiths. But for Hindus, deities — which are kept in temples, homes, shops and offices — serve as focal points “for to us channel our devotions, our actions and serve as a reminder of all the positive values that are associated with those deities,” said Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation.

Shukla says this form of worship is a way for her to connect with her ancestors. “As a second-generation Hindu American, I didn’t grow up with all these things around me where I could absorb through osmosis,” she said. “But just knowing that I’m part of a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation is personally powerful for me.”

In U.S. Hindu temples, community members come together to help create the costumes for the deities, and it is an act of devotion, Shukla said. “No one has to sit there and embroider a skirt or sari for a goddess, but they do it as a display of love,” she said. “It’s humbling and empowering.”

Goutham says he doesn’t view his job as a vocation. “You can call it service because it brings pure joy to so many and plays a role in our spiritual awakening,” he said. “But in my view, it’s much more than that. It has the power to transform people.”

Goutham has decorated deities in temples abroad as he has in tiny Indian villages and little-known temples. He remembers stopping once at a village tea shop and hearing the locals praise his decoration of their temple deity. “It really warmed my heart,” he said. “I love seeing mother Durga whether or not she is decorated,” she said. “But, when I do see her all decked up and looking gorgeous, it makes me so happy. It’s uplifting and empowering.”

There are some decorations which bring tears even to the artist’s eyes. “It’s not just something that is pretty to look at,” Goutham said. “It’s about love and faith. When you touch the deities, clothe them and decorate them, you think of them as your friends or parents. You need skill and vision to do this. But above all, it takes heart.”

Bill Introduced In NY Assembly To Make Diwali School Holiday In NYC

New York City students could soon have a day off to observe Diwali, an important holiday for many religions.  It’s part of a city-state partnership to allow the change in the city, CBS2’s Nick Caloway reported recently.

“The time has come to recognize over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights,” said New York State Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar.

Rajkumar, the first Hindu American and South Asian woman elected to state office in New York, and Mayor Eric Adams announced the plan recently.  “South Asian and Indo-Caribbean families like mine all over this city have made incredible contributions. And today, I’m proud to say our time has come,” said Rajkumar.

Picture : TheUNN

New Yorkers from all walks of life came to Albany to advocate for Diwali to be a School Holiday. With the support of Eric Adams Mayor, New York City and school Chancellor David Banks, Assembly Member, Jenifer Rajkumar introduced legislation to make Diwali a school holiday. Jenifer Rajkumar said that time has come to make School Holiday Now, as she introduced New York State Assembly Bill A7062A, “Establishes the Diwali school holiday in certain qualifying school districts to commemorate the Hindu festival of lights.”

“As the first Hindu-American and South Asian-American woman elected to state office in New York, I take special pride in advocating for new American communities, including those that celebrate Diwali,” Rajkumar said. “The South Asian, Indo-Caribbean, Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities are a vital part of our city’s gorgeous mosaic, contributing to every sector of our society,” she said. “It is long past time to honor their vibrant cultural heritage by making Diwali a school holiday, as community leaders have advocated for years. The time has come.”

A similar bill (S151) was introduced in the New York State Senate by Sen. Kevin Thomas. Thomas, the first Indian American  is sponsoring a bill to give districts the ability to close on six additional religious holidays — two Islamic, two Hindu, one Sikh and Christian Good Friday. New York City schools already close on the Lunar New Year and Islamic Eid al-Fitr. Some Long Island schools have already added Diwali to their calendar.

More than 300,000 Hindus, Jain, Sikhs celebrate festival of Diwali in New York . It’s only fair that Diwali should be a school Holiday so that children can celebrate Diwali with their families.

Jagdish Sewhani, a community leader said that it’s “unfair for  Hindu students in New York City to be at school on their most popular festival, Diwali. If schools had declared holidays around other religious days, why not Diwali then?”

South Asians and Indo-Caribbean in New York are fighting for Diwali school holiday for ages. It should be a public holiday in New York City, then New York State and consequently other states should fall on track.

“It’s time to recognize more than 300,000 Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain faiths New Yorkers to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Thousands of students, parents, and faculty would not have to select between observing the day or missing school or work,” asserted Jagdish Sewhani, President, American India Public Affairs Committee.

Hinduism is not only the oldest and third largest religion of the world but it is rich in festivals. More so religious festivals are very precious and sacred to Hindus. Diwali, the festival of lights, drive out the darkness and light up the lives, representing the victory of good over evil. It indicates the occasion of Bhagwan Shri Ram returning to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile.In India Christmas is national holiday,It should be a national holiday in USA also asserted Mr Sewhani.

Senator John Liu , Senator Kevin Thomas , Assemblyman David Weprin and many more showed their Support for this Bill to Make Diwali a school holiday.

India And Faraway Lands: 5,000 Years Of Connected History

‘A great way to learn about your country is to leave it’ —Henry Rollins, American singer. The recent publishing of my book India and Faraway Lands: 5,000 Years of Connected History marked the culmination of my long-standing quest for understanding India’s past in a wider global context. The seeds of my curiosity were sown over 27 years ago when I arrived in the United States as a graduate student from India. For the first time in my life, I met students from places as far afield as Iceland, Russia, Japan, Egypt, and Brazil. The stimulating exchange of perspectives opened my eyes to the cultures and customs of different parts of the world. I would often ponder over life in India versus life in America, East versus the West, the old world versus the new world.

With the image of India’s golden past firmly entrenched in my mind since childhood, I wanted to understand how, when, and why it fell so far behind. What began as a curiosity gradually evolved into a deep interest in global history. Wading through bookstores and museums over the years, I stumbled upon obscure yet intriguing historical connections between India and other corners of the globe. The realization that the rise of western Europe is a relatively recent phenomenon in the 5,000 years of world history opened new vistas of inquiry.

It struck me that histories of India were often confined to India’s boundaries, thereby missing a vital component: the story of the ‘outside’ or the ‘other side’, leaving the overall picture somewhat truncated and incomplete. The history of the British in India, for instance, began with their merchant ships landing in Surat, Gujarat in 1608. But it was around the same time that they had also landed in North America and established their first colony in Jamestown, Virginia (1607). What was going on in Britain in those days? What did the British merchants and colonists know about India and the Americas before they set sail from the shores of their tiny island nation? Who were the people who made these bold ventures possible? And why did they wait for more than a hundred years to sail out to these lands when Italian explorer Christopher Columbus had landed in the Americas in 1492 and Portuguese voyager Vasco da Gama had reached India in 1498?

Unlike India’s commonly perceived image among Western historians as a static civilization—shielded from the rest of the Eurasian continent by an arc of enormous mountain ranges in the north and surrounded by water in the south—India was an active player in world history. Steep mountain passes in the north-west, like the legendary Khyber Pass, allowed invading armies and trading caravans to pass through; the Indian Ocean was the hub of maritime trade and migration for thousands of years before humans were able to cross the Atlantic and the Pacific. There must be a reason why the who’s who of world history—Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, Marco Polo, Ibn Battuta, Ferdinand Magellan, Vasco da Gama, the Duke of Wellington—set foot in India.

The book shares intriguing tales of several lesser-known adventurers, merchants, and soldiers who landed in India over the centuries: a young Dutchman who stole the maps and navigation secrets of the Portuguese in Goa in the 16th century, opening the doors for the Dutch and the British to Asia; an Ethiopian who rose to be a successful mercenary general, also referred to as the ‘military guru of the Marathas’, defied the Mughals for a quarter of a century; an American from Philadelphia whose spirit for adventure took him through an incredible journey over two decades — as a surgeon in Burma, as Maharaja Ranjeet Singh’s physician in Lahore, and getting proclaimed a prince in Afghanistan!

When I returned to India in 2006, after being away for eleven years, I was keen to rediscover the homeland and travelled from the Himalayan town of Leh up north to the historic city of Madurai down south. UNESCO World Heritage sites like Sanchi and Ajanta Caves were breath-taking and bound to make even an uninterested visitor pause and imagine life in India over 2,000 years ago. And yet, they were often missing on must-visit places of Indian travelers. Likewise, history museums all over India were consistently empty and listless, as if the past did not matter. The common folk’s understanding of foreign lands, peoples, and cultures seemed rather superficial while age-old stereotypes continued to flourish despite all the buzz around globalization, and the fact that nearly 30 million people of Indian origin lived scattered around the world. My experiences motivated me to build upon what I had learnt thus far and write a story of our global past for the lay reader.

My plans got further traction when my book idea was shortlisted at the Bangalore Literature Festival in 2018, providing me an opportunity to pitch it to a panel comprising several leading publishers. It took another four years of research, writing, and multiple rounds of editing before the book saw the light of the day.

Rather than being a definitive history, India and Faraway Lands* aims to stoke the readers’ curiosity about our intertwined past. It is the book I wish I got to read as a restless youngster unsure of India’s place in the world.

BAPS Leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centennial Birthday Celebrated At UN

The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha came together to host centennial celebrations honoring the life and message of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of BAPS for more than 50 years. The event was held at the UN headquarters in New York City on December 7, 2022.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016) was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and embodied values of faith in God and service to humanity, a press release from BAPS said.

Picture : Cover

The event was themed, The World is One Family, the event at the United Nations aimed to honor his legacy. Those present included India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj, members of the Permanent Mission of India, ambassadors and representatives of many countries, and BAPS volunteers.

Dr. Kashyap Patel, a BAPS volunteer and cardiologist at the Northside Hospital Cardiovascular Institute in Atlanta, gave a welcome address, introducing Pramukh Swami Maharaj, his humanitarian efforts for social and spiritual upliftment, and his foundational belief that the world is one family.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s address at the United Nations Peace Millennium Summit on August 29, 2000, was brought to life through a video presentation. In this address, he appealed to spiritual leaders worldwide to have meaningful dialogues with each other to preserve the rich diversity, to not just tolerate but to respect all religions.

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General Miguel Angel Moratinos, who holds the post of High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, echoed Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s message, saying, “The time to come together as one is now.”

Kamboj delivered the keynote address. “In the truest sense, Swamiji’s life is a message to all humanity, it is a message of oneness, a message of goodness, a message of celebrating peace, harmony, and brotherhood,” she said.

During his lifetime, Pramukh Swami Maharaj responded to more than 20 natural disasters in India and abroad, inspiring volunteers to contribute their time and money to deliver relief to more than 6 million people worldwide.

Sejal Patel, a BAPS volunteer and associate director of professional development with McKinsey, shared a first-hand account of one such instance from the 2017 Hurricane Harvey disaster that struck Texas. “The signature mark of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s relief efforts was this… his ability to share in the suffering and to channel that empathy into a sense of urgency to provide the swift action needed to save lives and then rebuild them over time…” Patel said.

Professor Sejal Saglani, a BAPS volunteer from U.K., who is Professor of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine at the Imperial College in London, spoke about efforts made during the Covid pandemic.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj taught me in all aspects of my life that real success comes from serving and uplifting others,” said  Ria Soni, a BAPS volunteer, first-year medical student at NYU, and co-founder of Project Stree, a menstrual education organization.

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