Category: Culture

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 WCF2023@lindarothpr.com 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 WCF2023@lindarothpr.com with any questions or for pre-event interview opportunities.

MEDIA RESOURCES:

• World Culture Festival Compilation Video(Video Credit: Art of Living)
• Brochure for World Culture Festival 2023
• Past World Culture Festival Photos from 2016 and 2011(Photo Credit: Art of Living)
• #WCF2023: Official Hashtag for World Culture Festival 2023

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.

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.

In a dimly lit room, the weight of the world seems to press down from all sides. The walls feel like they’re closing in, each inch of space suffocating, as if the air itself is thickening. Thoughts race uncontrollably, each one darker than the last, spiralling into an abyss of despair and anxiety. The bottle of pills on the nightstand beckons as a quick escape, while the phone buzzes with ignored calls and messages from concerned loved ones. It’s a struggle, a silent battle fought behind closed doors, where even the simplest tasks like getting out of bed become monumental challenges.

This is a glimpse into the life of someone grappling with mental health issues, a life that many might not see but is a harrowing reality for some.

The narrative above is not an isolated incident but a reflection of a global crisis that is reaching alarming proportions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 300 million cases of mental disorders are on a rising trend worldwide, with 1 in every 8 people living with a mental disorder. The situation is particularly dire in the United States, where more than one in five adults, or 57.8 million people, live with a mental illness. The prevalence is even higher among females, with 27.2% affected as compared to 18.1% of males.

Adding another layer to this complex issue is the prevalence of substance use disorders. In 2021, 19.7 million American adults battled a substance use disorder, representing 7.1% of the adult population. Almost 74% of these adults struggled with an alcohol use disorder, while about 38% battled an illicit drug use disorder. Disturbingly, one out of every eight adults struggled with both alcohol and drug use disorders simultaneously, and 8.5 million American adults suffered from both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, known as co-occurring disorders.

Suicide, often the tragic culmination of untreated or poorly managed mental health issues, is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2021 alone, 48,183 lives were lost to suicide, translating to an age-adjusted rate of 14.04 per 100,000 people. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the situation, with a CDC study revealing a 10.5% increase in suicide rates between 2019 and 2020.

The tragedy of mental health issues is further underscored by the lives of celebrities we’ve lost, individuals who seemingly had it all—fame, success, and wealth. Robin Williams, the beloved comedian and actor, took his own life in 2014 after battling severe depression and anxiety. Chester Bennington, the lead singer of Linkin Park, died by suicide in 2017, having openly discussed his struggles with depression and substance abuse. Avicii, the Swedish DJ and record producer, also died by suicide in 2018 after grappling with mental health issues and the pressures of fame. Anthony Bourdain, the celebrity chef and television host, took his own life in 2018, despite his outwardly adventurous and fulfilling life.

While mental health issues are a global and national crisis, they also hit close to home for the Indian-American community. According to recent statistics, 1 in 5 Indian Americans experience mental illness, aligning closely with the national average of 1 in 5 adults. The most common mental illnesses among Indian Americans are anxiety disorders (15.3%), mood disorders (13.6%), and substance use disorders (11.3%). However, what is particularly concerning is that only 38.4% of Indian Americans with mental illness received treatment in 2020, compared to 43.7% of white Americans. This disparity highlights the unique challenges faced by Indian Americans, including cultural stigmas and barriers to accessing mental health services.

Building on the unique challenges faced by the Indian-American community, it’s worth noting that solutions may lie in our own cultural heritage. Yoga, a practice deeply ingrained in Indian culture, has now gained a global imprint, including in America. However, while most of the focus in America on yoga is geared toward physical flexibility and fitness, many are unaware of its profound impact on mental well-being. Originating as a holistic approach to health, yoga is not just about physical postures but also includes practices like meditation that are designed to bring mental clarity and emotional balance.

This emphasis on a holistic approach is particularly relevant in light of a recent Time article that highlighted some concerning trends in mental health care. Despite increasing mental health awareness and therapy usage, mental health metrics in the U.S. continue to worsen. The article questions the efficacy of psychiatric diagnoses and treatments and suggests a need for a more holistic approach. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative methods like yoga and meditation, which offer a more rounded approach to mental health, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of mental and emotional distress.

The benefits of yoga and meditation are not just anecdotal or rooted in ancient wisdom; they are increasingly being validated by modern science. A review published in Psychiatry International synthesizes current research on the efficacy of yoga as an integrative therapy for various psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The review suggests that yoga can help reduce symptoms above and beyond the effects achieved by standard pharmacological treatments alone.

Similarly, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has published a digest recommending meditation, yoga, and relaxation with imagery for routine use for common conditions like anxiety and mood disorders. Medical News Today also supports this, stating that yoga and meditation appear to have a positive effect on both the central nervous system and the immune system, improving an individual’s overall sense of well-being.

Yoga Journal has published an article emphasizing the endless benefits of meditation, particularly mantras for anxiety and deep relaxation techniques like yoga nidra. BJPsych Advances discusses the clinical usefulness of yoga for mental disorders, providing insights into the neurobiological mechanisms and the latest evidence base for the use of yoga in psychiatric practice.

The International Journal of Yoga also corroborates these findings, stating that yoga and meditation can help reduce symptoms of many psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, above and beyond the effects achieved by standard pharmacological treatments alone.

The financial toll of mental health in the U.S. is staggering, amounting to $193 billion annually, which eclipses the combined costs of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Moreover, for every $2 spent on mental health treatment, the economy loses $1 in productivity. In this high-cost landscape, yoga, and meditation stand out as economically sensible choices. These practices require minimal investment—just a quiet space and a few minutes. Yet, their mental and physical benefits are scientifically proven.

In the dimly lit corners of our minds, where despair and anxiety often hold sway, there exists an untapped reservoir of peace and clarity. Yoga and meditation, ancient practices deeply woven into Indian culture, offer a bridge to these tranquil spaces within us. As we’ve seen, the scientific community is increasingly recognizing their efficacy, not as a replacement but as a valuable complement to existing treatments.

The mental health crisis is not just a collection of statistics; it’s a lived reality for many, often hidden but profoundly impactful. The financial burden it places on individuals and society is immense, yet here we have tools that are virtually cost-free and scientifically validated.

So, as the walls seem to close in and the weight of the world feels unbearable, remember that the key to relief might just be a few deep breaths away.

American Academy for Yoga in Medicine is conducting a webinar on Mental Health on 30^th September, with expert physicians on how Yoga can be beneficial for people with mental health issues, or for anyone who wants to prevent the onset of such issues. It’s not just about bending your body; it’s about expanding your mind and enriching your soul. Are you ready to explore this transformative journey within?

(The author is a Cardiologist, Meditator, and Yogi based in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. He is the Founder and Chairman of the American Academy for Yoga in Medicine. He is the Editor in Chief; The Principle and Practice of Yoga in Cardiovascular Medicine.)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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: saraswathiawards@gmail.com

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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 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 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.

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/

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.)

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

‘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.

The Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia is being restored by India because our civilization is not limited to India, but is spread across countries, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday, December 12th said.

Addressing the Kashi Tamil Sangamam on the subject ‘contribution of temples in society and nation building’ being held here, Jaishankar said, “There are temples not only in India, not only in the Indian subcontinent, but in many regions beyond.”

“I had gone with the Vice President to see the biggest temple in the world — the Angkor Wat temple complex. Today, we are restoring and renovating the temples in Angkor Wat. These are contributions which we are making outside because the civilisation of India has gone beyond India,” he said.

“So, today when we are restoring, rebuilding, and re-energising Indian civilisation, our task is not only in India. Our task is all over the world. But, it is not only where our civilisation went, it is also where our travellers went, our traders went, our people of faith went,” he said.

Recalling his days as India’s ambassador to China, the minister said, “Some of you know that for many years, I have been an ambassador to China. I have seen the remnants of Hindu temples even in China on the east coast.”

He said that there is a very special connection between Ayodhya and Korea, whose people want to be associated with the developments in Ayodhya, he said.

He also mentioned that Shrinath jee temple in Bahrain, and said, “All these were established by our people, when they went out. It is a matter of pride for us that we are building a temple in UAE, that we got approval to built a temple in Bahrain. We have done a lot of work in Vietnam.”

“So, how do we today take our culture out, take our values, our philosophy, our way of life and share it with the rest of the world through activities outside. We are very committed in the foreign ministry to doing that. We also support what people of India are doing outside There are more than 1,000 temples in the US,” he said.

He said that there are 3.5 crore Indians and people of Indian origin abroad, who have taken Indian culture with them abroad. “So, it is also our efforts today to support them, and we do it in different ways.”

Jaishankar also informed the audience that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged Rs 200 crore to build a Ramayan Circuit into Nepal, “so that all of us will have an opportunity to visit our heritage in close quarters.”

“Even in Sri Lanka, we restored the Thiruketheeswaram Temple in Mannar. This temple was closed for 12 years. So the fact that we took interest, made efforts, has made it possible for the revival of that temple,” he said.

Thiruketheeswaram Temple, one of the five sacred Ishwarams dedicated to Lord Shiva, is venerated by Shaivites throughout the subcontinent and the temple was testimony to the most difficult period in the history of Sri Lanka as it was closed for 12 years during the armed conflict and reopened in 2002.

The minister also said that in Nepal after the 2015 earthquake, many temples were damaged because they were old. “We have committed USD 50 million for restoration of cultural heritage in Nepal.

Four years in the making, the 240-feet-long Aquarius Art Tunnel, connecting Terminals D and E at the George Bush International Airport in Houston, Texas, is the brainchild of Indian American contemporary artist Janavi Mahimtura Folmsbee. An audio-visual treat for travelers en-route to exotic destinations, the brightly colored murals in vivid reds, blues, greens, and yellows fill the walls from floor to ceiling, evoking a sense of hope and optimism towards nature, the oceans, and abundant underwater life.

The tunnel showcases species of fish, coral, sharks, dolphins, barracudas, lobsters, manta rays, and, even, oil rigs, among many other creatures that call the oceans their home. The floor of the tunnel is a coral carpet, inspired by the artist’s deep-sea dives at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary off the Texas coast, and the accompanying sounds are a combination of classical music and the artist’s own meditative, underwater breath, created by Andrew Karnavas.

“This tunnel is a simple act of kindness to the environment,” said Mahimtura Folmsbee at the official unveiling of the project. “We can all work together to invest in our environment, and here in our city, through small acts of kindness, let us protect our waterways, as they are interconnected to our planet through each and every one of us. Water is OURS – for ALL of us!”
Last week, The United Nations Decades of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (UNESCO) endorsed the Aquarius Art Tunnel as a site for its scientific and educational importance towards ocean conservation through artistic outreach as an immersive art installation; it has also been endorsed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Sanctuary in Galveston. The project was commissioned by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, on behalf of the Houston Airport System, through the city’s Civic Art Program and the Houston Arts Alliance.

“The power of Janavi’s work will be experienced by passengers because they will feel uplifted and ready to battle their journey ahead, while taking a piece of our Texas coast with them…and a greater sense of responsibility of being custodians of the earth,” said Theresa Escobedo, Civic Art Program Manager for the City of Houston, and part of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

“Facilitating this type of passenger experience from an international artist like Janavi is both a personal and professional pleasure,” said Alton DuLaney, Curator of Public Art for the Houston Airports. “And the fact that the inspiration material for this work is quietly located right off the coast of Texas increases the identity and sense of place for the airport which we strive to deliver through our passenger engagement initiatives.

Consul General of India in Houston, The Honorable Aseem R. Mahajan, pointed out the commonalities in culture and values between India and the U.S. and how Texas is now home to the second largest Indian community in the country. “Janavi’s work is very vibrant, and as people walk through the tunnel, it will be a shining symbol of the India-U.S. partnership,” he said.

The tunnel also has a special significance for Mahimtura Folmsbee; it is where she, and countless others, take the flight home to India. “I hope to create a bridge between science and art,” she said. “I want to shine a light on an essential natural resource, marine life, that is in dire need of our help, now more than ever.”

In a meeting with Seven Mayors from across the United States, Dalai Lama stressed the need for promoting compassion. Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval was among the seven who were part of the group that travelled to the abode of the Dalai Lama in India, at a personal invitation of the 14th head of the Tibetan Buddhist Territory.    

Pureval — whose mother is from Tibet —invited the Buddhist leader to Cincinnati as part of ongoing efforts to position the city as a “flourishing, global destination.”

“I am honored to take part in this incredible opportunity to meet His Holiness and invite him to our bold, dynamic city,” Pureval added. “Having a global leader visit Cincinnati would be huge, and as the highest-ranking elected Tibetan American in the country, my meeting with him showcases our city’s commitment to diversity and growing the city equitably.”

For Pureval, the trip to India is bigger than business or politics. His landslide victory in the November 2021 election made him the first Asian-American mayor of Cincinnati, or any major city in the Midwest.

When he addressed the crowd at Washington Park during his inauguration in January, Pureval reflected on what the moment would mean to his late father, an immigrant from Punjab, India. Pureval’s mother — who joined him at the celebration in Over-the-Rhine — is a Tibetan refugee.

“He was barely an adult when he and my mother… made the impossibly courageous decision to leave everything behind in search of a better life,” Pureval said of his father on Jan. 4. “My dad’s simple bold courage tilted the axis on which my world is based. I owe everything to his belief in America and the worldview it cultivated for me.”

To mark the occasion, a group of immigrants from Tibet and other members of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community traveled to Cincinnati from across the region to witness the swearing-in.

One of those in attendance was Tenpa Phuntsok, assistant director of the Tibetan Mongolian Cultural Center (TMBCC) in Bloomington, Ind. He’s also president of the Tri-State Tibetan Association.

Phuntsok was there, he said, on behalf of “all Tibetans in America,” including the Indiana Tibetan Association, an organization representing Tibetan refugees now living in the United States. 

The group presented Pureval and his family with several gifts, including a letter from the 14th Dalai Lama featuring prayers and well wishes. In the letter, the Nobel Prize winner offered his congratulations and support to Pureval.

Phuntsok also draped Pureval’s neck in a khata, a traditional ceremonial scarf in Tibetan Buddhism. “Mayor Aftab Pureval is truly a symbol of what Tibetans can achieve in America,” Phuntsok said.

Political officials representing several other cities planned to make the trip to India as well, according to Helena Battipaglia, a spokesperson for Pureval. She mentioned Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter of San Leandro, Calif.; Mayor Libby Schaaf of Oakland, Calif.; former Mayor Bill Peduto of Pittsburgh; and Mayor Greg Fischer of Louisville, Ky.

Philanthropist Lonnie Ali, widow of Muhammad Ali, also received an invitation, Battipaglia wrote in a statement. It’s not clear if she attended.

In 2003, Muhammad Ali met with the Dalai Lama in Bloomington to help consecrate the grounds for the Chamtse Ling (“Field of Compassion”) interfaith temple.

The Dalai Lama’s eldest brother, Thubten J. Norbu, was the former Buddhist abbot and a professor at Indiana University. Norbu founded the Tibetan Cultural Center in 1979.

“Because Muhammed Ali was such a beloved figure, he put the Tibetan cause in the mindset of millions of Americans and we are very grateful,” Phuntsok said.

The Maheshwari community of Rajasthan came together this Thanksgiving weekend to relive their culture and connect with each other at the 11^th International Maheshwari and Rajasthani Convention (IMRC). The well attended event was hosted by the Southwest chapter of MMNA (Maheshwari Mahasabha of North America) and held at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Houston. The convention was kicked off by Convenor Sharad Mantri, National President Abhilasha Rathi, BOT Chair Ghanshyam Heda and Co-convenors Archana Bhakkad and Sanjay Jajoo. Guests of Honor included Shailesh Lodha, Dr Ruma Devi, Kartikeya Baldwa, Dr. Renu Khator and the Consul General Aseem Mahajan.

The convention was packed with several highlights such as a trip to the ranch, Ghoomar dances, creative breakout sessions, musical night, Mahasangram, Mahesh Tank, professional networking, Children’s Talent show, Matrimony sessions, Diet Planning and Yoga sessions.  This was the effort of nearly 150 volunteers who worked tirelessly for the last six months to prepare for the event.

Thanksgiving Eve, November 24, marked the beginning of the celebration. A cultural show by the southwest chapter featured more than 115 people who performed several Rajasthani festivals through drama and dance. “Ristey-Reet-Riwaj” was the theme of the performance. The opening ceremony was kicked off by a graceful Ghoomar dance performed by over 40 ladies. MMNA National President Abhilasha Rathi welcomed the guests and appreciated the volunteers by saying “Kuch samay pahle aisa laga keh hum sab thodi der ke liye Rajasthan pahuch gaye hai, itna sundar ghoomar IMRC ki opening ceremony meh pehli baar hi dekha hai. I feel fortunate to be part of the MMNA pariwar and proud to be a Rajasthani Maheshwari!” (It felt like I was in Rajasthan. Rarely has such a beautiful Ghoomar dance been performed)

Convenor Sharad Mantri expressed his delight at the event’s success with over 900+ attendees from all over the world. This convention, he revealed, “made history by involving every age group from toddlers to seniors and created positive vibes in the youth for IMRC.” The Education Foundation of MMNA also raised $115,000, he added.

“Mahasangram” – the conflict between generations generated a great deal of interest and dealt with issues such as family values and the relations between parents and children. Mahesh Tank saw entrepreneurs making business presentations to a panel of four investors. The MMNA Matrimonial Session announced the launch of a  mobile app to help Maheshwaris and Rajasthanis find their special someone. A silent auction was also held for the Rajasthani artwork submitted by the participants.

On Saturday, the entire convention moved from the hotel to a ranch. It was a picturesque day with everyone decked in cowboy attire showcasing Texan culture coupled with TexMex cuisine. The trip to the ranch with 770 plus attendees on 14 school buses was a unique and fun experience for all.

The Rajasthanis Abroad Youth Samaj (RAYS) was equally involved  and took the lead as emcees, coordinators,  and welcoming the attendees. RAYS President Sarika Malani noted that  around 200 youth members joined the activities which ranged from professional networking to card making for the Texas Children’s Hospital. This event re-invigorated the youth, and they were excited at being a part of the convention.” A RAYS member shared this comment “RAYS has given me a connection to Maheshwari culture and roots that no other platform has been able to provide in my life. Our RAYS group chat of youth members has been flooded with messages from new attendees all over the country talking about how incredible their first experience was!”

A live musical concert by a team of 14 performers from Niche Entertainment, India regaled the attendees on the Grand Gala Nite.  The event concluded on Sunday with the closing ceremony, annual awards, and volunteer appreciations. Sushma Pallod received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her selfless work and dedication to the community while Jitendra Muchhal and Padam Maheshwari received special recognition awards.

Sharad Mantri concluded the event by stating, “This grand event would not have been possible without the generous support of the donors and committed volunteers.” All MMNA life members were given a souvenir book as a keepsake of the event which included memories, articles, donor appreciation, interesting stories, artwork, and more from Maheshwaris all over  the world.

Authentic Rajasthani delicacies like Dal Batti and Churma were on the menu and catered by Maharaja Bhog in Houston. Each meal featured a delectable variety of cuisines from renowned vendors. The decorators did apt justice to the theme and created a lively Rajasthani ambience in the hotel.

Long Island Gujarati Cultural Society (LIGCS) . President Vijay Shah along with the entire executive committee, celebrated its Silver Jubilee Anniversary this past weekend. Emceed by Silver Jubilee Convention Coordinator and VP Programs Flora Parekh, the event was sponsored by Mayur Shah and Family.

Several dignitaries, organization Presidents, guests and well-wishers graced the event including Guests of Honor Harshad (Pakaji) Patel of Gujarati Samaj and Anil Shah of VTNY, Naveen Shah (Navika Capital), Amneal Pharma Group, Mr. Dilip Chauhan (Deputy Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Innovation) and several others. Jon Kaiman (Dy. Suffolk County Executive) and Nassau County Office of Public Affairs graced the occasion with Citations acknowledge this major milestone success of the organization. 

Starting with an auspicious Diya ceremony resembling the significance of Diwali, the event had a special pious beginning by beautifully choreographed traditional Ganesh Vandana by Jhanvi Patel and Kathak Bollywood performance by Anjali Patel. 

“The organization is well established, represented, served and ready for another 25+ years to come” said President Vijay Shah in his inspiring message.

The event was followed by a special ceremony honoring all Past Presidents Dr. Manibhai Patel, Tribhovanbhai Patel, Mafatbhai Patel and Bakulbhai Matalia followed by members who have been there since inception completing 25 years of voluntary service Mayur Shah, Bhadresh Acharya, Govind Akruwala, Amarish Kachhy and Ketan Upadhyaya. Special recognition awardees included Flora Parekh, Harshad Patel and Kaushik Shah. Keeping its monthly tradition, November birthday celebrations included a decorated Silver Jubilee cake celebrating 70th Birthday of President Vijay Shah, Youth Volunteer Birthday Harshil Parekh and specially invited guest Smitaben’s birthday. 

DJ Parth with Famous Singer Mahesh Mehta from NJ accompanied by specially invited melodious singer – X Factor & Sajda Sisters fame Rekha Raval rocked the event with their live singing and rocking DJ. Specially designed souvenirs were distributed as momentum. All attendees were honored with Specially designed silver jubilee coins symbolizing the outstanding achievements over past 25 years and going forward distributed by Meena Shah and Aruna Shah. Special moments were captured by Akshat Kaul of Kaul Photography. Secretary Ketan Upadhyaya and Jt. Secretary 

The tireless efforts of all members above and other entire executive committee –Jagdish Mehta, Suresh Udeshi, Prakash Patel, Jayesh Shah, Paresh Parekh, Gopi Udeshi from setting up the venue to cake coordination and front desk, several volunteers and supporters contributed to the mega success of the event. Mouth watering appetizers, dinner and deserts were served. For additional information visit www.ligcs.org.

The wedding season is here in full glory and after two years of slowdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrations are expected to be bigger. This is reflected in an estimate drawn up by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), which expects over 32 lakh weddings will be solemnised between November 14 till December 14.

The bigger the wedding, the more the expense and keeping this in mind the CAIT estimate sees the wedding market generating trade of about Rs 3.75 lakh crore in this period.

The research shows that in Delhi alone, 3.5 lakh weddings are expected to be solemnised. Meanwhile, around 1.5 lakh weddings are estimated across Rajasthan in November, the highest in over two years, according to news agency PTI.

The boom in the wedding industry this year

According to another survey done by WeddingWire India, the Indian subsidiary of The Knot Worldwide, 42.5 percent of wedding suppliers’ monthly profits will surpass pre-pandemic figures.

The company recently conducted a wedding vendor survey with over 220 vendors. and noted that around 31 percent of vendors have increased their charges this year.

Also read: Weddings and tourism: A growing matrimony in the Indian economy

“Guest list of 100-250 is the new normal for 34 percent of couples and families. Themed and personalized weddings are emerging as the latest trends in the wedding market. Couples are also more gravitated toward sustainable options for their big day,” the survey said.

In its most recent Trend Survey, which was done in October 2022, online wedding platform Weddingz.in has recently identified new trends in the wedding business. With respect to trends, 63 percent of millennials are moving ahead with digitization and planning their weddings online rather than following the traditional route.

In spite of being mainly unorganised, a KPMG analysis titled Market Study of Online Matrimony and Marriage Services in India estimated the size of the Indian wedding market at Rs 3.68 trillion in 2016.

Kathleen Martinez, an archaeologist at the University of Santo Domingo, has been searching for the lost tomb of Cleopatra for nearly 20 years. Now she believes she’s made a pivotal breakthrough.

Martinez and her team uncovered a 1,305 meter (4,281 feet) tunnel, located 13 meters (43 feet) underground, the Egyptian Ministry for Tourism and Antiquities recently announced — an architectural design experts called an “engineering miracle.”

“The excavation revealed a huge religious center with three sanctuaries, a sacred lake, more than 1,500 objects, busts, statues, golden pieces, a huge collection of coins portraying Alexander the Great, Queen Cleopatra and the Ptolemies,” Martinez told CNN.

“The most interesting discovery is the complex of tunnels leading to the Mediterranean Sea and sunken structures,” she added. Exploring these underwater structures will be the next stage of her search for the Egyptian queen’s lost tomb — a journey that began in 2005.

“My perseverance cannot be confused with obsession. I admire Cleopatra as a historical character. She was a victim of propaganda by the Romans, aiming to distort her image,” Martinez said.

“She was an educated woman, probably the first one who studied formally at the Museum in Alexandria, the center of culture in her time” according to Martinez, who said she admires Cleopatra as a student, a linguist, a mother and a philosopher.

When her husband, the Roman general Mark Antony, died in her arms in 30 BCE, Cleopatra took her own life soon after by allowing an asp to bite her by, according to popular belief. The moment has been immortalized in art and literature — but, more than two millennia later, little is known about where their remains lie.

A series of clues led Martinez to believe Cleopatra’s tomb might be located in the Temple of Osiris in the ruined city of Taposiris Magna, on Egypt’s northern coast, where the Nile River meets the Mediterranean.

Chief among them was the name itself. According to Martinez, Cleopatra was considered in her time to be “the human incarnation of the goddess Isis,” as Antony was considered to be that of the god Orisis, Isis’ husband.

Martinez believes Cleopatra may have chosen to bury her husband in the temple to reflect this myth. Of all the 20 temples around Alexandria she has studied, Martinez said, “no other place, structure or temple combines so many conditions as the temple of Taposiris Magna.”

In 2004, Martinez took her theory to Zahi Hawass, an Egyptian archaeologist who was then Egypt’s minister for antiquities affairs. Her project was approved a year later.

And after years of searching, Martinez feels she is getting close.

The excavations so far have revealed that “the temple was dedicated to Isis” — which Martinez believes is another sign that the lost tomb lies nearby — as well as the tunnels below the sea. Now, Martinez said, she is at “the beginning of a new journey” — underwater excavations.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry for Tourism and Antiquities, the Egyptian coastline has been battered by earthquakes over the centuries, causing parts of the Tamposiris Magna to collapse and sink under the waves.

This is where Martinez and her team are looking next. Although it is “too early to know where these tunnels lead,” she is hopeful.

If the tunnels lead to Cleopatra, “it will be the most important discovery of the century,” she said.

From October 22 to October 26, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Ma Mandir in Robbinsville, N.J. saw devotees gathering to enjoy colors, lights and food during the Diwali celebrations.

As per reports, the Mandir was lit 2,700 diyas, and was decorated with colorful rangoli and flower decorations.

Many devotees, young and old, gave their time to help create decorations, prepare for children’s Diwali, and set the stage for the most significant ritual of Diwali, ‘Annakut’- which literally means ‘a mountain of food’ offered to God to celebrate the beginning of the Hindu New Year, BAPS said in a press release.

More than 1,500 food delicacies were offered at the Diwali celebrations held in BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, N.J. October 22-26, 2022. Photo: BAPS

Annakut was celebrated on October 26, 2022, with more than 1,500 delicacies being offered to Bhagwan.

This year, millions of devotees and well-wishers across the globe are taking part in the centennial celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual guru and leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

An exhibition-themed “Century of Service,” an immersive experience into the Life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the highlight of the Diwali celebrations held Oct. 22-26, at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, N.J. Photo: BAPS.

At the Robbinsville temple, visitors got to view an exhibition-themed “Century of Service,” an immersive experience into the Life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj who traveled across the world, visited more than 250,000 homes across more than 50 countries and replied to over 750,000 letters, personally counseling individuals, helping them through struggles, and inspiring them to live value-centric lives, the press release said.

One of the devotees Ami Shah is quoted saying, “I start my year at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, NJ. The Annakut is awesome and I love coming here. This year the exhibition on Pramukh Swami Maharaj was just too good.”

“I experienced my culture while getting a taste of fine Indian cuisine,” said another devotee Jignesh Patel.

Sikh Religious Society, Palatine Gurdwara organized a four-day celebration to mark the auspicious occasion of Diwali from Sunday October 23, 2022 to Wednesday October 26, 2022 in Palatine IL. Diwali was on Monday October 24, 2022 and New year was on Wednesday October 26, 2022. Over 2,000 people attended the beautiful Diwali celebration at Gurdwara. With Beautiful Diyas & some fireworks for display. The sangat came from all over the Midwest/Interstate of Chicago.

The events included deepmala as well as katha and kirtan by Bhai Rajinder Singh and Jatha, Bhai Parminderjit Singh and bhai Inderjit Singh Khalsa.

The daily kirtans were followed by langar seva where hundreds of volunteers of all age groups offered their services by serving hot meals to all the attendees. This year’s Diwali Seva at the Gurdwara was hosted by Savi Singh Attal & family of Chicago.

Savi Singh’s son of Mr. Satwant Singh Attal SRS Palatine Gurdwara (Past President) family have been hosting Langar and doing Seva for Palatine Gurdwara for over thirty-six years and have been a prominent Sikh Family of Chicago migrated from India in the late 1970’s. The entire family has committed to the Sangat for over four decades and plans of continuing the Seva and passing it on to the next generations to come. The family loves and enjoys doing Langar in Gurdwaras. Diwali Celebrations has brought religion & culture together throughout the globe.

President Jairam Singh Kahlon and Religious Secretary Tarlochan Singh Multani recognized a few members from the Sikh & Hindu Community for Contributing $50,000 towards Repairs/Maintenance for Gurdwara. Donors were Mr. Anoop & Amita Mamtani, Mr. Savi Singh & Rupi Kaur Attal, Mr. Gulzar S. Multani, Mr. Ketu Amin, Mr. Neal Patel and Mr. Prajesh Patel. Palatine Gurdwara needs close to 1,000,000 dollars for repairs and maintenance and will have a Fundraiser in 2023.

With God’s Blessing the Sangat has grown in the Chicagoland area for close to 50 years. Mr. Savi S. Attal and Family hosted the Kirtan & Langar for the Diwali and will continue to do sewa for the Community.

Rupi Kaur has been crowned Mrs. Illinois American 2022. Rupi completed her MBA in 2013. She has had the opportunities to work with some of the top fortune 500 companies and is currently working in Corporate. She is also a Real Estate Agent affiliated with Coldwell Banker and was featured in the Chicago Agent Magazine in early 2021. A mother of two with a full-time corporate job and a Real Estate Agent, she still manages to get involved in the community and volunteers in many Organizations. Her platform is Women Empowerment and throughout her reign as Mrs. Illinois American, she will continue her legacy to represent her community, her State, and the Country as a whole. 

Sikh Religious Society, a non-profit organization, in Palatine, Illinois was formed in 1974 and its first formal Prakash Divas (the ceremonial acceptance of Guru GRANTH Sahib {Sikh’s holy scripture/book} at this new place of worship was celebrated in 1975.  The organization focuses on Sikh religious services, Punjabi language/ Kirtan classes. Another focus of this society is on the community service, charity and other Non-Profit endeavors to promote the Punjabi culture and heritage.

The venue was colorfully decorated in lights and lamps. As dusk fell, guests played with the traditional sparklers as smoke filled the air.

Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff opened their home at the Naval Observatory in Washington DC Oct. 21 to host a grand Diwali party.

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Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and Neera Tanden, senior advisor to President Joe Biden, joined scores of A-list Indian Americans who participated in the celebrations, the first to be held at the Vice President’s home. The venue was colorfully decorated in lights and lamps. As dusk fell, guests played with the traditional sparklers as smoke filled the air.

To the puzzlement of many, Harris wore her traditional pant suit, eschewing the saris, anarkhalis, and lehngas sported by her female guests. She later apologized to her guests during a speech, laughing along with her guests as she said: “I’m sorry I’m not wearing a sari, but I did wear some nice jewelry.”

Seeking Light In Moments Of Darkness

In a speech, Harris fondly remembered celebrating Diwali as a child in Chennai. She recalled getting dressed up in new clothes and then going out on to the streets to throw fireworks. “What could be better?” she proclaimed, to long laughs from the crowd.

“As I get older, I really am beginning to appreciate Diwali more. It really is a universal concept: seeking light in moments of darkness, and shedding light in moments of darkness.”

White House Celebrations

“We are not without great challenges, in our own country, and in the world. Celebrations like Diwali remind us of our power to bring lightness to the world,” said the Vice President. There is so much about Diwali that is also enlightenment above ignorance.” President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House Oct. 24.

Diwali, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, begins today with colorful customs and celebrations. The holiday also has significance for Sikhs and Jains, and is celebrated not just in India, but in Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore and other countries with South Asian diasporas. It’s generally celebrated for five days, with the biggest day being the third one. 

More and more major brands are recognizing the festival of lights, running ad campaigns and stocking products related to the holiday in the US. South Asian Americans who celebrate Diwali can now pick up fireworks from Costco, greeting cards from Hallmark and party decorations from Target. The proliferation of the ad campaigns and products, marketing strategists and business owners say, reflects just how much the South Asian population in the US has grown in recent years.

The South Asian Engagement Foundation along with the Durst Organization will be displaying, Diwali-themed animation on the façade of the One World Center, a symbol of New York City’s eternal goodness. The animation will occur daily, Oct 22-Oct 24th from 6pm-2am.

“We are so happy to bring this wonderful animation to everyone via the World Trade Center and so fortunate to work with The Durst Organization to bring this message of peace, harmony and the celebration of good over evil,” said Rahul Walia, Founding Trustee of South Asian Engagement Foundation.

Named the All-American Diwali, the celebration is dedicated to New York’s finest. SAEF plans to honor them through its social media posts, and requests everyone celebrating Diwali throughout the United States to do the same for their own local first responders.

On the inaugural day Oct 22, 630pm, the community is cordially invited to witness the lighting with LIVE AARTI and prayer on the corner of West and Vesey Street with the One World Trade Center as the backdrop. Meeting point is outside 200 West Street.

At SAEF, the work is dedicated to building a strong brand for the Indian American community by empowering them and catalyzing the conversation around Indian Americans.

All American Diwali is a trademark and copyright of the South Asian Engagement Foundation.

The South Asian Engagement Foundation (SAEF) is a registered 501c 3 non-profit organization based in New Jersey. SAEF has a mission to increase leadership potential in Indian American communities by providing incentives using educational initiatives and civic engagements. Amongst its initiatives, SAEF supports programs like the South Asian Spelling Bee and the Cricket Bee. SAEF’s vision is to continue supporting and organizing educational initiatives and cultural outreach to expand national awareness of the Indian American community.

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin’s New Jersey chapter (AAPI-NJ) held its annual convention gala October 8, 2022, at Imperia in Somerset. Attendees also marked the occasion for celebrating the Festival of Lights – Diwali. More than two hundred guests attended the program, per Dr. Pradip Shah, President of AAPI-NJ. 

Other attendees included Dr. Hetal Gor, RD of AAPI, Dr. Atul Prakash, Vice President of AAPI-NJ, and Dr. Pooja Patel, Secretary of AAPI-NJ and Dr. Jayesh Patel, Treasurer of AAPI-NJ. Several speakers addressed the gathering including Congressman Hon. Frank Pallone Dr. Pradip Shah, Dr. Sudhir Parikh, advisory board member of AAPI-NJ. 

Dr. Pradip Shah outlined the vision of the AAPI-NJ which included but was not limited to, Continuing Medical Education seminars for members, community service included donating blankets, supporting, and helping soup kitchens, and assisting international medical graduates get residency, disease awareness and prevention, women’s health, and encouraging the younger generation of doctors to join the AAPI events. 

Congressman Frank Pallone also outlined the importance of the Indian American community in the U.S. and thanked physicians for their hard work during the pandemic. “We are really trying really hard in Congress to spend money and be up to date for another crisis,” Rep. Pallone said, to have the research and the ability to deal with the crisis better than before. 

Congressman Pallone also said the U.S. Congress is concerned about heart health in the South Asian community, and that he and others are trying to get the bill on this matter passed through the U.S. Senate. It has already been passed through the House of Representatives recently. Dr. Parikh said.  when he was involved in establishing the India Caucus in Congress and how Rep. Pallone was involved in co-founding it. for celebrating Diwali. General Secretary of AAPI-NJ, Dr. Pooja Patel, said “We are looking forward to carry forward the work done by NJ state AAPI.” She encouraged younger physicians to join the organization

There have been dazzling; glorious Navratri celebrations all across Chicagoland and continuing on the rich tradition Bharatiya Senior Citizens of Chicago hosted their own Navratri Sharad Poonam Garba – Taal with Geeta Rabari, on Sunday – October 9, 2022 at DuPage Event Center; Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, N County Farm Rd, Wheaton, IL. Geeta Rabari Geeta Rabari is a very famous Gujarati folk singer, and she performs with her group every year during the Navratri festival.

The event attracted over thousands of Gujrati families and Indians alike to celebrate the splendor of Navaratri. The attendees ranged from toddlers to seniors and were dressed in vibrant and colorful Indian attire, especially the ladies and children who were seen wearing bright colorful, dazzling traditional dresses with matching ornaments and extravagant hairstyles. The twirling dancers, clapping hands, instinct sound of wooden sticks struck together, toe tapping music and people wearing colorful clothes marked the grand Navratri celebrations at the Garba; Dandiya Raas with Geeta Rabari!

The festivities began around 6 pm and lasted until10:30pm. The celebration started with the traditional Lamp Lighting ceremony. President Haribhai Patel spoke fondly about the Navaratri celebrations, saying that, “It keeps a part of our rich culture alive, we Gujarati have garba in our blood”. He recognized sponsors, the committee members and volunteers that made the event possible.

This evening also happened to be the ‘Sharad Purnima’, a full moon night. Geeta Rabari with live band is one of the most popular Navratri garba events in the Midwest area. The live band orchestra included the rums, cymbals and all sorts of instruments and together with the melodious magical voice of Geeta Rabari, the DuPage Event Center was transformed into a huge dance floor to accommodate hundreds of bare feet dancers moving with the thunderous drumbeats in swirling circles around the deity of Hindu Goddess Maa Durga. Geeta’s powerful voice, her energetic and colorful performance and stage presence was a treat for her fans that left them wanting for more. She brought a new level of excitement and energy that charged up the whole Gujarati music scene for the entire evening!!

Prominent dignitaries in attendance were Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Michael Burke, Supreme Court Justice; Greg Hart Dupage County Board Member; Chris Dargis, Republican nominee for the 8th Congressional District; Shweta Baid, Alderman Aurora; Meghana Bansal, Trustee Wheatland Township; Nag Jaiswal, Candidate for Naperville city council; Nimish Jani, Community leader; Vinesh Virani, Art of Living; VHP Nirav Patel, BJP President.

The sponsors for the event were Clear Spring Health care insurance, Chhotalal Patel and S International Inc. Other Sponsor were American Standard circuit, Gordhan Patel, Vinesh Virani, Krishna Bansal, Nimish Jani, Brijesh Patel and Chintal Mehta.

There have been dazzling; glorious Navratri celebrations all across Chicagoland and continuing on the rich tradition Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) and Support A Child (SAC) hosted their own Navratri Garba Raas with Rex D Souza and Shivani Shah, on Sunday – October 15, 2022 at Bartlett Park District, 700 S Bartlett Road, Bartlett, IL. Shivani Shah is a very famous Gujarati folk singer, and she performs with her group every year during the Navratri festival.

The event attracted over thousands of Gujrati families and Indians alike to celebrate the splendor of Navaratri. The attendees ranged from toddlers to seniors and were dressed in vibrant and colorful Indian attire, especially the ladies and children who were seen wearing bright colorful, dazzling traditional dresses with matching ornaments and extravagant hairstyles. The twirling dancers, clapping hands, instinct sound of wooden sticks struck together, toe tapping music and people wearing colorful clothes marked the grand Navratri celebrations at the VHPA and SAC Garba.

The festivities began around 7:00 pm and lasted until12:30 pm. The celebration started with the traditional Lamp Lighting ceremony. President Harendra bhai Mangrola spoke fondly about the Navaratri celebrations, saying that, “It keeps a part of our rich culture alive, we Gujarati have garba in our blood”. He recognized sponsors, the committee members and volunteers that made the event possible. “Thanks to the wonderful audience of Chicago and well-wishers who attended the event to make it a huge success” said by Vinesh Virani (VHPA Chicago chapter VP). “It was a colorful, cherished event as kids, youth and adults of all ages participated and brought the liveliness around us.” said by Nirav Patel (VHPA community outreach). 

Shivani Shah started with the Three claps Garba, “Kum Kum Kera Pagale Madi”. She sang the Classical “Raksha Karo Ambe Maa Bhavani”. Rex Dsouza continued amazing Garbas in Two Taali. In Raas everybody enjoyed “Disco Dandia ”, She sang all what the Khelaiys wanted to hear for their dance and continued with Mataji’s Arti & Stuti Harendra bhai Mangrola (VHPA Chicago Chapter president), Vines h Virani (VHPA Chicago chapter VP), Joy Shah (Treasure), Neela Patel (Secretary), Sanjay Shah (Event chair), Nimisha Patel (Event chair) Amitabh Mittal (Joint secretary VHPA), Nirav Patel (VHPA community outreach), Anisha shah (Event chair), Radhika Jain (Bal Vihar chair), Nitin Surti, Chirag Chavda, Harmil Patel (KPS president), Prakash bhai, Dr. Shyamkant Seth, Rakesh Malhotra, Krishana Bansal, Vandana Jhingan and Ganesh Kar.

Shivani Shah learned North Indian classical music. She has done more than 500 Singing Shows Leading my Band as a professional singer. “Performing for VHPA was a something Special and memorable experience,” said Shivani Shah. The crowd was really crazy and we as a team enjoyed performing for such a lovely crowd.

Rex Dsouza was one of the three finalists of Fame Gurukul, one of the most watched television shows in India in 2005. The show’s premise was to select a pair of India’s best singers/performers. On Fame Gurukul, Rex was characterized as having a good mixture of charisma, singing and confidence. Rex Dsouza won the support of many fans due to his personality and talent, which earned him the title of Mr. Gurukul. 

Rex Dsouza’s infectious smile made the girls go weak in their knees but couldn’t make it to the Fame Jodi. But that didn’t dampen his spirits a week after Fame Gurukul announced its winners. He has taken it in his stride and is now doing stage shows around the world, along with singing for Bollywood movies. He is here for the love of performing; he enjoys being on stage and it’s not his style to be nervous. Performed around the world in more than 1500 shows.

 “The crowd in Chicago was amazing as always!!! The energy was great and always exciting to perform in Chicago. Navratri is my favorite time of the year. The color, the energy, the vibe that people carry makes this festival even more awesome!!! Looking forward to performing before the Chicago crowd again and again. Want to thank VHPA for this opportunity, in which I could also help them raise money for the great cause they have always worked on would love to do this event every year” said by Rex Dsouza

Many volunteers demonstrated well organized team effort and worked very hard under the leadership of VHPA President, Executive and Advisory board to make this event grand a success. Without their dedicated and selfless effort, this event won’t be remembered as Best Celebrating Diwali festival in Times Square along with India’s 75th Independence Day with 60-plus performers

Celebrity Chef Vikas Khanna, who is set to host the first episode of the upcoming docu-series ‘The Journey of India’, recently shared that no other cuisine in the world can match up to the Indian cuisine.

The Michelin-star chef said: “I have travelled to innumerable countries in my time as a chef. However, the diversity of Indian cuisine is simply unparalleled. The complexity of flavours and the multiple notes it can hit at once simultaneously makes it unlike any other. Indian food has a soul of its own.”

Vikas will take the viewers across India and the extraordinary ingredients, flavours, recipes and cuisines that define India through the show. The episode will also feature other experts from the culinary industry who share their experiences and vast knowledge on the subject, decoding India’s wholesome food ventures that have put India and its food on the global map.

“I can’t wait to take my fellow viewers through the journey of India’s un-really diverse palette and how it emerged as one of the top global delicacies,” Vikas added.

He also mentioned that the Golden Temple was his glimmer of hope and inspiration, where any celebration began with the langar seva, the selfless service feeding thousands of hungry souls among many other experiences.

‘The Journey of India’ will air on Discovery’s network of channels in India and drop on OTT platform discovery+ on October 10. (IANS)

Barefoot Empress: A Story of the Victory of the Human Spirit, written and directed by Vikas Khanna, renowned Michelin star chef, and produced by Oscar-nominated Doug Roland, premiered Sept. 13, 2022, at the Asia Society headquarters in New York (barefootempress.com).

This movie is produced in association with non-profits Leap to Shine and Global Fund for Widows.

The short documentary’s sold-out debut screening  had more than 250 attendees including industry professionals such as award-winning vocalist Ila Paliwal, India’s Consul General in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, UN ambassador for India, Ruchira Kamboj, entrepreneur and philanthropist MR Rangaswami from California, among others.

The film follows the remarkable journey of Karthyayani Amma, who finally gets a chance to join a first-grade class at the age of 96. Amma spent most of her life as a temple cleaner trying to make ends meet for her family, but when given the opportunity to educate herself, she pushed past societal norms and ended up a star student in her class. With a score of 98 percent on her exams, Amma dreams of studying up to grade 10.

“I am so honored to use my art and voice to inspire change,” Khanna if quoted saying in the press release. “By sharing Barefoot Empress with the world, I hope to spark conversations that create safer learning spaces and bring financial security to girls and women in India.”

Leap to Shine has named Amma a Global Ambassador and pledged to educate five million girls in India.  Khanna is an advisor to Leap to Shine.

“After having spent almost 25 years volunteering for non-profits, I have learnt that transparency, scalability, and impact are the key attributes to make a difference,” said Keyur Shah, director at Leap to Shine. “We achieve that using technology to create profound impact in the lives of those who have the drive to change their destiny with the power of digital learning.”

The leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on Friday endorsed the holy city of Varanasi as the first ever tourist and cultural capital of the grouping for the year 2022-23. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said this at a media briefing.

India’s oldest city, Varanasi was named the first-ever SCO Tourism and Cultural Capital at the 22nd Meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of State in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Sept. 16, 2022. During the one year period till 2023 , a numbers of cultural outreach events attracting the presence of Indologists (people who study about India), scholars, authors, musicians and artists, photo journalists, travel bloggers and other invited guests, will be held in city.

The Indian delegation at the SCO summit in this historic Uzbek city of Samarkand was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Uzbekistan handed over the rotating presidency of the grouping to India for the year 2022-23.

“Prime Minister Modi thanked all the member states for endorsing Varanasi as the first ever SCO tourist and cultural capital during the upcoming year 2022-23,” Kwatra said. “This is a befitting recognition of the historic city and opens the door for greater cultural and people-to-people ties between India and the region,” he said.

The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Over the years, it has emerged as one of the largest trans-regional international organisations. India and Pakistan became its permanent members in 2017.