Community News

Georgia Atlanta Metro

Navratri Dandiya Night 2022

When: 2022-09-30 Where: DeSaNa Middle School 678-883-3460 Host: Atlanta Community Events

Purbasha Durgotsav 2022

When: 2022-09-30 Where: South Forsyth High School purbashainc@gmail.com Host: Purbasha

Thaman Live in Atlanta

When: 2022-10-01 Where: Sidney Marcus Auditorium 678-468-6624 Host: Sri Krishna Vilas

Amit Tandon Stand Up Comedy - Atlanta

When: 2022-10-02 Where: Duluth High School Auditorium 425-326-9859 ohoproductionstickets@gmail.com Host: OHO productions

Capricio Band - Live in Concert! - Atlanta

When: 2022-10-07 Where: Haven Restaurant and Lounge 470-519-4149 Host: People Media Factory

Gujarat Garba Mahotsav with Parthiv Gohil in Atlanta

When: 2022-10-09 Where: Sumant Center Shakti Mandir 361-218-2523 Host: Whizz Entertainment

Gujarat Mahotsav in Atlanta

When: 2022-10-09 Where: Sumant Center Shakti Mandir 361-218-2523 Host: Whizz Entertainment

Diwali Halchal

When: 2022-10-15 Where: Desana Middle School 713-623-3859 Host: Atlanta Indian Family

Happy Diwali 2022

When: 2022-10-21 Where: Ashiana Banquet Hall - Global Mall 678-646-9993 Team@punjabisociety.us Host: Punjabi Society

Nirguni Bhajans

When: 2022-10-22 Where: Aditya Memorial Hall 678-988-2234 Host: ICMS and Manoranjan Group

A Unique Concert of Hindustani Classical Vocal Recital by Pt. Bhuvanesh Komkali

When: 2022-10-22 Where: Greater Atlanta Vedic Temple 678-988-2234 Host: Indian Classical Music Society of Greater Atlanta

Abby V Live Concert - Atlanta

When: 2022-11-05 Where: Lassiter Concert Hall 248-979-8900 sriniv@aimforseva.org Host: AIM for Seva

Moruchi Mavshi In Atlanta

When: 2022-11-13 Where: Atlanta Civic Center 805-387-3636 info@5dimensionsinc.com Host: Five Dimensions Entertainment

Global Mela 2022

When: 10/08/2022 Where: 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Norcross, Atlanta,30071 Contact: 770-416-1111 globalmela@amsglobalmall.com Host: Global Mall

Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshi and Indo-Caribbeans Advertise in Desh-Videsh December 2022 Special Wedding Resource Edition

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Combating Hinduphobia through Awareness

Hindu Americans have contributed greatly to the development and growth of the USA, and this has been widely acclaimed by the lawmakers of the country. Yet, a recent trend of anti-Hinduism propaganda, or Hinduphobia, has been prevalent in the virtual media supported by memes and other narratives that actively spread hatred and toxicity. It was discussed at the National Hindu Advocacy Day on the Hill, a significant event organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) in Washington DC on September 21, 2022.

The event was attended by 15 American lawmakers, including senators, congressmen, and congresswomen. The vibrant culture of Hinduism and its colorful and significant festivals like Navratri was emphasized in this event. However, the topic and the dark influence of Hinduphobia were also talked about. Recently, the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) at Rutgers University conducted a study on anti-Hindu propaganda and Hinduphobia. The leading researcher and Chief Science Officer of NCRI, Dr. Joel Finkelstein, has exposed a sharp rise in antiHindu hatred in online channels and growing Hinduphobia in general. He further said that these online memes and writings are shared by white racists, Islamists, and others. According to him, such hatred is globally interconnected and a major reason behind the attacks on Hindu temples and Hindu people in the USA and the UK.

This was considered a matter of grave concern by the lawmakers. Mentioning the contributions of the Hindu Americans in almost every field of activity, they expressed their deep regard and respect for the community. Admitting to the growing trend of toxic Hinduphobia, Congressman Drew Ferguson mentioned his genuine love of the Hindus for America and said that they are extremely hardworking, creative, innovative, charitable, and compassionate like any other American.

Congressman Hank Johnson also highlighted the rich contributions of the Hindus in America for decades and how they have enriched the country’s culture with their values and enterprises. Nikunj Trivedi, President of CoHNA, emphasized the need for awareness of Hinduism to combat and stop this hatred. They have taken the initiative of educating the Hindus on their rich traditionand culture through various events.

Kishan Tallapally becomes a member of the Johns Creek City ACE Committee.

It is indeed a great honor for Kishan Tallapally to be nominated as a member of the Johns Creek City Arts, Culture and Entertainment (ACE) Committee. The city of Johns Creek has the unique feature of cultural diversity. The residents of the city represent various ethos and values and live a united life of peace and harmony in the city. Being a member of the prestigious Arts, Culture and Entertainment Committee of such a rich city is indeed a great achievement, and Tallapally is extremely happy and humbled to receive this responsibility.

The Mayor of the Johns Creek City, John Bradberry, appointed Tallapally along with eight other members of the ACE Committee which includes another American Indian. The nominations for membership are reviewed by the city council. After reviewing, they send their recommendations to the mayor. The duration of the membership is two years.

Tallapally has been a resident of Johns Creek City for the last 12 years. He is an active community leader engaged in various community welfare projects as a volunteer. He held a number of important posts in various community organizations pertaining to American Indians. In 2021, he held the post of President of the Greater Atlanta Telangana Society (GATeS). At present, he is the President of the Indian Friends of Atlanta (IFA).

Tallapally expressed his pleasure and gratitude at his nomination. He thanked the mayor and the members of the city council for nominating him to the esteemed post. He further said that he would put forth the best of his efforts to unite the people belonging to diverse communities and cultures and form an assimilated community that reflects the unique features of multi-ethnic and multi-dimensional residents. With his vast experience in community welfare, it is expected that Tallapally will do full justice to the responsibilities assigned to him. The nine-member committee shall fulfill the responsibilities of studying and making recommendations to the city council on matters regarding public art, cultural activities and entertainment in the city. They also make recommendations on proposals of art on public properties.

The Fundraising Program of the Atlanta Chapter of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA

Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA was initiated on the principles of providing education to the underprivileged children of rural India. They believe that education can bring the greater world within reach of these children and expand their horizons towards a far better life. With this vision, the Ekal Vidyalaya began its journey back in 1989 and changed the academic scene of rural India.

Today, more than 80,000 villages are under the aegis of Ekal benefiting countless children by empowering them with the tool of education. Their model of a one-teacher school with an annual sponsorship of $365 has become very popular. Along with free basic primary education, Ekal has successfully expanded its activities in the areas of vocational training, organic cultivation, vermicomposting, telemedicine, social empowerment, and healthcare for adults and consequently brought about far-reaching changes in neglected villages of India and Nepal.

The Atlanta Chapter of Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation organized a grand fundraiser program on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Berkmar High School’s new auditorium and raised over $100,000 for Ekal Vidyalayas. It was a soulful presentation of music and dance titled “Ye Jo Des Hai Mera” or “This is my Country,” narrating Independent India’s journey of 75 years and the milestones, and achievements along with the image of a new India that is confident, aggressive, and steadily emerging as a major force.

The program began with a warm welcome by emcee Neetu Singh Chauhan. Regional Vice President Ajay Upadhyaya, led the Ekal youth volunteers in singing the US and Indian national anthems. The presentation on India was conceptualized and directed by Milind Oak and narrated by Nachiket Devasthali. Milind has a long association with Ekal and visited an Ekal school in 2015. It was presented with melodious live music, dances, trivia, interviews, and vintage speeches.

The presentation started with a dance to the patriotic song “Vande Mataram” with clippings of old newspapers, speeches, and photographs being shown in the background. The achievements of India in various fields like sports, movies, and the recent digital revolution of Make in India were also highlighted.

The grand show was attended by over 275 guests including dignitaries, Mr. Mark Gonsalves, a successful businessman and GA’s 7th Congressional District candidate, and his wife; Mr. Dilip Tunki, Council

Member for the City of Johns Creek, Mr. Kartik Bhatt and Mr. and Mrs. Harsha Agadi, and Mr. Shiv Aggarwal, Ekal Chapter President and owner of Global Mall, invited the guests of honor.

The program included a meet-and-greet hour where VHPA served sumptuous dinner and tea. The show concluded with the traditional Rajasthani invitation “kesariya baalam aao ni padhaaro maare des” which is an intimate request to visit “My Country” or India.

New Jersey Hindu Americans Demand Rescission of Hateful Resolution by Teaneck Democrats

Almost 55 Hindu American organizations representing more than 155,000 residents of Bergen County, NJ, and surrounding areas signed a letter condemning a hateful resolution recently passed by the Teaneck Democratic Municipal Committee (TDMC). The resolution labels almost every major Hindu American organization in the US as fascist organizations which promote hate and terrorism.

Hindu Americans see this resolution as a vicious act by Democratic Party activists to demonize the Hindu community, long considered by many to be a model minority community. Unfortunately, it has recently experienced numerous instances of hate crimes in the New Jersey area.

“The TDMC chose to make baseless assumptions and operate from a position of ignorance and hate,” said S. Rawal, a long-time NJ resident, who recalls similar instances in his childhood.

Civic leaders also expressed their support. NJ State Senator Vin Gopal, in a strongly worded statement, condemned the resolution and called for its immediate rescission.

Teaneck City Council Members Keith Kaplan and Michael Santiago Pagan also issued a strong statement in response to the resolution, “Unfortunately, the TDMC resolution… was felt by some to condemn all Hindus, which encompasses many peaceful members of our larger community. Hate has no home in Teaneck.”

Hindu Americans called for an investigation into the individuals and organizations that may have incited the TDMC to pass this hateful resolution.

Interestingly, Alexandra Soriano-Taveras, the TDMC Chairman who signed off on the resolution, is no stranger to stirring up ethnic and religious animosity, having suggested boycotting Jewish businesses a year ago.

Hindu American organizations donated over 30 million pounds of food and over $50 million worth of supplies and other essential services during the pandemic to help the elderly or lower-income communities. “Our volunteers strive to serve humanity considering that as serving divinity,” said Rashmita Shanbhag of Sewa International USA.

The letter urged the TDMC to immediately rescind their hate-filled resolution and apologize for endangering the security, well-being, and safety of Hindus in New Jersey.

“Vote for Herschel Walker” urges Nikki Haley

Former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley has extended her support for the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, Herschel Walker, and urged the Asian American voters of Atlanta to vote for Walker. At the “Republican Rally for the Indian American Community” outside Global Mall in Norcross, on Friday, September 9, Haley admitted that the Republican Party could do better. She further said that the Asian Americans have not voted for the Republicans, because none of the Republicans listened to them. Expressing her support for Herschel Walker, she said that he will be there for the community. This whole-hearted support from a highprofile Asian American Republican like Nikki Haley is quite significant.

In his speech, Herschel Walker spoke about the importance of racial unity along with his strong belief in God. He further said that he is not concerned about color or race, but only gives importance to the character of a person. He is in a unity bus, where he wishes to take all, because he thinks a divided house cannot stand strong. He also expressed his support for law enforcement and the military and his conservative values in social matters, including his disapproval of transgender rights. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also joined the meeting in his bid for re-election.

Sunil Savili, an entrepreneur from Johns Creek, organized the rally. More than 200 Asian Americans attended the rally. They expressed their concern and dissatisfaction over inflation and public safety and said that as their population and representation are increasing, this was their chance for their voices to be heard. Louis Tseng, a 51-year-old logistics and aviation executive of Duluth, spoke about the high price of groceries, gas, inflation, and other things. Bhupendra Darji, a financial advisor from Duluth, said that the Republican Party represents the interests of Asian Americans, and as the Asian Americans enter into business, they need support from the Republicans. Nikki Haley also stressed the need for fiscal responsibilities. Criticizing the Democrats for their wasteful expenditure on illegal immigrants and federal inmates, she said that the Democrats do not understand the value of a dollar.