By Paru Sarkar
Sugar Land: On August 11th, on a hot, sunny morning, the Hindu community came out in force to show their support for Bangladeshi Hindus & other minorities and to raise awareness of the situation of following the collapse of Sheikh Hasina’s government. Greater Houston was part of the global outrage of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
The minority community, specifically Bangladeshi Hindus, has been ruthlessly targeted by Islamists with radical ideology. Helpless citizens have had their homes & livelihoods destroyed, temples vandalized, women and children violated & countless have been tortured and killed, echoing the orchestrated pogroms of Operation Searchlight that led to the 1971 Bangladesh genocide. It is a wellorchestrated mayhem to instill fear amongst Hindus so that they leave Bangladesh; their numbers have been dwindling steadily.
The vigil, attended by more than 300 Hindus and organizational leaders, was one of the first to be organized in the Houston, Texas area and is one of the many grassroots mobilization of the Hindu community around the world protesting mass scale violence against minorities – one of the largest spontaneous awakening the world
has ever seen. The vigil was organized by Maitri in Houston (Bangladeshi Hindu diaspora)
Paro Sarkar, Board member of HinduAction and Sharmishtha Saha from the Bangladeshi diaspora led the vigil against continued targeting of Hindus and attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh. They demanded immediate steps by the Biden-Harris administration to rescue the beleaguered Hindus and other affected minorities and give them “special protected status”.
Chants of “Justice, Justice, We Want Justice” & “We won’t run, We Won’t hide – Stop Hindu
Genocide” conveyed the urgency to the audience, America & the world that immediate steps are needed to control the anarchy, lawlessness and state of terror engulfing the vulnerable Bangladeshi Hindu community.
Other speakers, who voiced their concerns, shared poignant stories from their own experiences and raised their voice for call to action, included:
Debabrata Nandi, Maitri in Houston, Shalini Kapoor, Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) , Amit Raina Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD), Ashish Agrawal DISHA USA, Shibir
Chowdhury Houston Durga Bari Society (HDBS), Achalesh Amar HinduPACT and AHAD, Arvind Iyer Hindu American Foundation (HAF), Viren Vyas Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), Hari Iyer Hindus Advancing Human Rights, Arun Kankani, Sewa International, and, Uttam Karmakar, Maitri in Houston, Vijay Pallod Hindus of Greater Houston
A particularly moving message was shared by Amit Raina of GKPD, himself a Kashmiri Hindu Genocide Survivor:
“I can deeply understand and relate to the pain that our Hindu community in Bangladesh is cur-
rently enduring. We, too, have faced similar ethnic cleansing as a community multiple times, the most recent being in 1990, and this systematic genocide based on religion continues even today. It is important for us to recognize that this is the same terror template being repeatedly used by Islamic fundamentalists to target indigenous populations across the globe. We must not allow another ‘Kashmir Files’ to unfold in Bangladesh.” Uttam Karmakar, who hails from Bangladesh himself, expressed his anguish and said “America, you talk about democracy, about human rights – why are you silent on what is happening in Bangladesh?”
Jennifer Knessek from State Senator, Joan Huffman’s office, joined the Hindu community and expressed her support.
The global Hindu community stands in solidarity with Bangladeshi Hindus and minorities and will continue to raise awareness of the unfolding situation in Bangladesh. It was a fervent appeal to the conscience of the broader community to do their part to save lives of minorities, under attack from extreme ideologists. August 11th in Houston Texas was a day Texans stood with the rest of the world to protest the genocide of innocents, purely based on religion.
rome: With the blessings and guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, Akshar-Purushottam Darshan – a classical philosophical school of thought and practice of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya – was presented and warmly received at the 25th World Congress of Philosophy in the historic city of Rome, Italy.
The eight-day conference was hosted between August 1 and 8, 2024, at the Sapienza University of Rome, one of the oldest universities in the world and the largest in Europe. It attracted more than 5,000 scholars and students of philosophy from over 120 countries and diverse disciplines and backgrounds.
The prestigious academic event, organized by the International Federation of Philosophical Societies (FISP), served as a platform for some of the brightest minds from around the world to engage in profound discussions and a rigorous exchange of ideas. Through as many as 89 philosophical sub-disciplines, they sought to address contemporary global challenges and foster
a deeper understanding of human existence.
During the conference, on August 2, 2024, an insightful session was held by the Congress that focused on spiritual ecology and Akshar-Purushottam Darshan.
Chaired by Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami, the session
aimed to catalyse a re-examination of our underlying attitudes and beliefs about the environment through a lens of religious philosophy, specifically Akshar-Purushottam Darshan.
Scholars from the UK, USA and India presented their research on how the philosophical exploration
of Akshar-Purushottam Darshan finds practical expression through devotion, ethical living, and service to humanity and the natural world.
Professor Balaganapathi Devarakonda, Professor of Philosophy at Delhi University, remarked, “I was delighted to see Akshar-Purushottam Darshan so enthusiastically received at such a large academic event. Of course, the Akshar-Purushottam school of Vedanta has its roots in sacred Sanatan Hindu texts, but it may be unfamiliar to some Western scholars of philosophy, so it was very encouraging to see them be interested in, learn about, and engage with its fundamental values and beliefs that can have such a powerful positive impact in our world today.”
In addition to the formal sessions, swamis used interactive workshops, collaborative dialogues, and informal gatherings to make meaningful connections with scholars. This allowed them to share philosophical ideas and
learn from each other in a genuine spirit of open academic dialogue and mutual enrichment.
In a personal meeting, Professor Scarantino, President of FISP and the World Congress of Philosophy, and Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami discussed key takeaways from the conference and future directions. Both reiterated the enduring relevance of philosophy in contemporary society and the need for continued dialogue and exploration. Professor Scarantino also thanked Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami for presenting Akshar-Purushottam Darshan at the conference.
After the philosophical discussion, Professor Luca Scarantino was pleased to receive ‘Swaminarayan-Bhashyam,’ the Swaminarayan Sampradaya’s classical Sanskrit commentaries on the Vedanta Prasthanatrayi elucidating the principles of Akshar-Purushottam Darshan, from the author himself, Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami.
Professor Noburu Notomi, President of the Philosophical Association of Japan and host of the next World Congress of Philosophy was also present at the meeting. He invited BAPS to present the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan at the 26th World Congress of Philosophy, scheduled to be hosted in Tokyo in 2028.
PearLand: A wonderful Krishna Janmashtami Utsav
will be held from Sat Aug 24 to Sun Sep 1 at Namadwaar / Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple in the Pearland area. This utsav is an opportunity for devotees to immerse themselves in Krishna katha and kirtan all week, and also accrue immense merit and be the recipients of Bhagavan’s grace by simply attending such a Bhagavata Mahotsav, as emphasized in our scriptures (Padma Purana).
A highlight of the Utsav will be Sri Krisha Leela katha (discourse) in English by Sri Gadadharan ji, disciple of HH Maharanyam Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji, at 6 pm on weekend evenings (Sat-Sun Aug 24-25 & Thu-Sat Aug 29-31). On the other days at 6 pm we will have bhajan with Ashtapadis and procession of Sri Krishna and Radha Devi in different vahanams with kirtan.
‘Bhakti Sugandham’ based on scenes form Srimad Bhagavatam, by a group of dancers from around the Houston area led by Dr. Surabi Veeraragavan. Performances on other days include Kuchipudi (Ms. Preethi Krishnamani), Odissi (students of Ms. Supradipta Datta), Bharatanatyam (student of Ms. Lavanya Rajagopalan), Carnatic violin (student of Sri Mahesh Iyer), Carnatic vocal (student of Ms. Madhura Shankar and student of Ms. Preethi Sethuraman), Hindustani vocal (students of Ms. Jyoti Joshi), and Hari Katha presentations (Shri Sisters and a student of Sri Muthuramanji).
Special celebrations throughout the week include Sri Krishna Janana Utsav (celebrating Krishna’s birth) on Aug 25 Sunday evening 7:30 pm, with reading of the chapters of Sri Krishna’s birth, Kirtan, and Nandotsav with dancing
around baby Krishna. On Sat Aug 31, 10 am there will be Govinda Pattabhishekam – celebration of Sri Krishna’s Govardhana Leela. The same evening, the pre-wedding procession of Sri Krishna and Radha Devi will be celebrated with Janavasam. Sunday Sep 1 morning will be the grand, divine wedding of the divine couple, Radha Kalyanam (Radha-Madhav Vivah).
Complete Srimad Bhagavata
Saptaha parayanam (reading all 18000 slokas of Srimad Bhagavata Mahapurana) will be conducted from Aug 24 to 31. Recitation of Srimad Bhagavata Mahatmyam (Greatness of Srimad Bhagavatam) from Padma Purana will be done on Aug 24 at 4 pm, as it is traditionally done. Then, the recitation of Srimad Bhagavata Purana will begin from Aug 25 morning. Approximately 60 chapters of Srimad Bhagavatam will be read
daily starting from 7:30 am until around 1 pm. Simply listening to Srimad Bhagavatam is very auspicious, and all are welcome to join, listen or follow along.
Each day before the evening katha or procession, there will also be classical dance and music presentations. A special performance on Aug 24 evening 5:30 pm will be a short version of the Global Organization for Divinity’s Bharatanatyam dance ballet production,
Lunch and dinner prasad will be served daily. We welcome everyone to attend all the events!
If you can support this divine cause, Prasad, Flowers and Daily Seva sponsorships are welcome. Please call or whatsap 281-4026585. Visit our website www. asptemple.org or Facebook pages Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple or GOD Houston. Temple location is 9120 Bailey Road, Manvel TX 77578.
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HouSton: Vadtal Dham Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple School-LNDYM Takes Students on Enlightening Visit to Gandhi Museum.
On Saturday, August 10, 2024, thirty-eight enthusiastic students from the Vadtal Dham Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple School embarked on an educational and inspirational visit to Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston. This enriching experience was part of the school’s ongoing commitment to broadening the horizons of its students through cultural and historical education.
The visit to the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston, EGMH, provided the students with a unique opportunity to engage with the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in promoting peace and nonviolence. Through interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations, students gained a deeper understanding
of Gandhi’s pivotal role in the Indian independence movement and his enduring influence on global human rights.
The fieldtrip included guided tours, educational videos, and reflective discussions to help students connect with the principles and messages conveyed through Gandhi’s life and work. This hands-on learning experience complemented the school’s curriculum and encouraged students to think critically about the impact of historical figures on contemporary society.
Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is a modern, state of the art, world class museum. It is the only museum in Americas dedicated to preserve and promote Mahatma Gandhi’s greatest legacy, nonviolent conflict resolution. To learn more about the museum and organize a fieldtrip for your organization please visit www.egmh.org
HouSton: Houston Maharashtra Mandal (HMM) recently hosted a memorable Women-Only Mangalagaur event, a festival honoring the bond between women uniting ~180 ladies & girls from ages 3 to 75 yrs. old.
This special occasion signified the organization’s objective of preserving & promoting the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra. It showcased deep cultural pride, and a strong sense of community. The event was visually stunning, with the venue beautifully adorned in traditional décor that set a welcoming tone for the evening.
The ambiance made every attendee feel part of something truly special. The evening featured a series of traditional performances from graceful dances to lively folk numbers, Fugadi & Ukhana competitions, each captivating and heartfelt, celebrating the essence of festival.
A key highlight of the evening was the Mangalgaur games, which brought together participants of all ages in fun and laughter. These traditional games added an element of joy and nostalgia, allowing attendees to relive cherished memories while creating new ones. No celebration is complete without food.
A sumptuous spread of “Chat” was served, delighting everyone with its delicious flavors and providing the perfect complement to the evening’s festivities. Music also played a central role in the event, with a thoughtfully curated playlist by the HMM team that harmonized with the event’s theme. The selection featured a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary tunes, encouraging everyone to dance.
Adding to the entertainment was HMM Committee’s Flash mob that lead to an impromptu surprise flash mob by all the attendees. Their spontaneous performance was met with cheers and applause, further elevating the lively atmosphere. The HMM Ladies-Only Mangalgaur event was a beautiful celebration of tradition and community, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
By acHarya Bramdeo
HouSton: Students, parents, teachers, volunteers, well-wishers were convened to the Yajnopaveeta & Vedarambha Sanskars of students as part of the induction ceremony into formal studies on the living values of Sanatan Dharma. It was also time to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the start of the DAV Sanskriti School (DAVSS) in USA. This ceremony is now a regular grand way of starting the new academic year at DAVSS. After conferring the Angavastra, Tilak and Yajnopaveeta (Janeu) to students, the kids offered the Samidhaas (woodsticks) to the holy fire in the same way during the Havan led by Acharya Surya Nanda, as was done in the olden times in Gurukuls.
Acharya Bramdeo, Acharya and Director of Studies at DAVSS emphasized on the need for regularity in studies with an analogy: A father had asked his son to fill an old, soiled basket with water. After trying some 10-15 times, the son was bored and told his father that it was a wate of time as he is just fail-
Founder: dr. k.L. Sindwani PuBLiSHer: JawaHar maLHotra
editor: Pramod kuLkarni correSPondent: SancHaLi BaSu
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ing the task The father requested the son to take a close look at the basket, and the latter noticed that it was now shining clean, the dirt had been washed.
That’s what the two plus hours weekly connect to Sanatan Dharma will do in the life of the kids… make the life balance sheet of the student shine bright with clarity of mind about the oldest ancestral cultural heritage. Parents were also invited to discuss with their kids about the learning at DAVSS. That will enthuse in them the eagerness to stand for and stand by for Sanatan Dharma in late life and realize the motto of “Krinvanto VishvamAryam”, that is ‘make the world noble.’
Subjects taught at DAVSS: Dharma Shiksha, Hindi (conversation & written), Havan, Veda mantras & Shlokas (with meaning), Dance, Music, Yoga, Vedic Maths, Crafts, Arts, Bhangra, Heritage & Culture.
Admissions now open: davss. org/admissions Contact: Acharya Bramdeo (832) 219-5079 Email: davss@aryasamajhouston.org
By SancHaLi BaSu
HouSton: A magical evening of IMPA (Indian Music and Performing Arts) Inc’s launching event Shaam-e-mehfil took place on Aug 4th 2024 at Stafford Civic Center, 1415 Constitution Ave, Stafford, TX 77477. Indian Music & Performing Arts IMPA Inc. is a non- profit 501 c (3) founded by President Keka Kar with likeminded individuals to promote Indian cultural arts of music & dance. Board members include Kiran Ketkar, Bobby Singh, Ritu Chinchlani, Marlaine Frelier, and Addy Aliaj.
Attendees were welcomed with snacks and soft drinks, catered by Indian Summer on entry and the music and dance program followed.
The evening was kicked off by emcees Leena Shaw and Shehzad Shah, radio personalities who have their own radio program. They complimented each other very well with their exchange of shairis, and were able to keep the audience engaged the entire evening.
It was an evening of toasting to a fantastic organization, with a thoughtfully curated unique presentation of combination of Ghazal and Kathak. The opening dance was presented by local talented students, trained by Kathak Gurus Souvik Chakraborty and Ritusri Choudhary who had traveled all the way from India. The former was trained under Pt. Vijay Shankar, Vidushi Chetna Jalan &
Pt. Birju Maharaj and is an empaneled artist of ICCR, EZCC, Sangeet Natak Academy. The latter was also trained under Kathak Maestro Pt. Birju Maharaj. Ghazal Singer Prithvi Gandharv
of Mumbai, India, then took the stage and mesmerized the audience with his baritone voice and impeccable singing. He has more than 1200 concerts all over the world, under his belt including concerts
with Ghulam Ali and Shreya Ghoshal. Presently he is training under Hariharan. He was accompanied by Bobby Jutley on the tabla, Somenath Chakraborty (India) on the guitar, and Nadeem Ashrafi on
the keyboard. He kept taking requests from the audience and tried to fulfill each. The audience was left applauding after every song and wanting more. What embellished the evening was the accompaniment of the Kathak dancers to some of the songs making it an absolute audio-visual treat for the attendees.
The Indian Idol finalist Chetna Bhardwaj was another celebrity artist who impressed everyone with her powerful voice and created quite an impact from her very her introduction song- Lambi Judai. Prithvi and Chetna sang a few songs together and Prithvi had moved to the keyboard from his harmonium by then. Souvik and Ritusri danced to some of the duets as well.
People appreciated Keka Kar, [the program director] for her vision of producing a live performance of Ghazal with Kathak dance. She was gracious enough to join Prithvi in singing 2 ghazals at his request.
High School Children from Katy ISD and Fort bend ISD helped in volunteering during the event. Sound & light were provided by Chris Peltier and the event photography and Videography by Vijay Prajapati.
Biggest Sponsors of the event were Satish and Kamlesh Agarwal, Satish & Mona Sethi, Biswajit Kar, Parul Fernandes, Raj Bhalla, Surajit Dasgupta, Tapan & Becky Sinha.
