Indo American News

Author: Indo American News

  • Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup Drive by DSNDP in Collaboration with TxDOT at Needville

    Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup Drive by DSNDP in Collaboration with TxDOT at Needville

    NEEDVILLE — Volunteers from the Texas chapter of Dr. Shri. Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Pratishthan (DSNDP), a global non-profit organization, came together for a successful . This cleanliness drive by DSNDP drew #volunteers at Ford Bend County who collected 7 big size bags of trash between FM 361/FM 1994 upto Seiler Rd resulting in collection of around 105 pounds of waste.

    Founded with the mission of fostering environmental consciousness, DSNDP’s motto “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – meaning “The world is one family” – reflects its global commitment to a cleaner planet. This philosophy, along with the visionary leadership of Dr. Shri Appasaheb Dharmadhikari and Dr. Shri Sachindada Dharmadhikari, drives their commitment to a cleaner and greener future for all. Since launching its nationwide efforts in 2022, the organization also carried out 39 cleanliness activities that includes Adopt-a-Road, Adopt-a-Highway, Storm Drain marking etc. across 8 cities involving a total of 453 volunteers who worked for around 732 volunteer hours, collected 273 bags of waste resulting in approx. 4095 pounds of trash. continuing its efforts to improve public spaces while fostering community involvement and environmental stewardship.

    DSNDP’s nationwide initiatives extend beyond cleanliness drives, including tree planting efforts across 15 states, health initiatives, and charitable activities like blood donation drives in both the US and Canada. With its vast impact and growing network, DSNDP remains committed to making a difference across North America and globally.

    For more information, please visit https://www.dsndp.com.

  • HinduPACT Launches in Austin, Texas, Unveiling Key Initiatives

    HinduPACT Launches in Austin, Texas, Unveiling Key Initiatives

    AUSTIN – HinduPACT, an American Hindu organization dedicated to advocating for dharmic values and the Hindu ethos in public life, proudly announces the successful launch of its Austin, Texas chapter. The inaugural event, held recently, was met with an overwhelmingly positive reception from the wider community, marking a significant step forward in HinduPACT’s mission to foster inclusion, pluralism, and human rights.

    A key highlight of the event was an informative presentation by Rahul Sur, Executive Director of HinduPACT’s Hindus Advancing Human Rights (HAHRI) initiative, a distinguished global leader in social justice reform and former Chief of the United Nations Peacekeeping Evaluation in the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) at UN Headquarters in New York.

    Mr. Sur delivered a thought-provoking talk on the “drip, drip Genocide of Hindus in the last 75 years in Pakistan,” offering deep insights from his extensive UN work, including human rights.

    Mr. Sur said, “The world has turned a blind eye to the killing, and rape of Hindus and the destruction of temples after Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus took charge of the government. Bangladesh’s Hindu population has plummeted from 28% in 1947 to just 7% now. This blatant violation of human rights must end immediately.”

    His powerful presentation resonated deeply with attendees, shedding light on the Hindu Genocide that is often suppressed from public consciousness.

    The event’s success underscores the growing need for platforms that facilitate open discussion and advocacy on issues vital to the Hindu community. HinduPACT’s launch in Austin signifies a stronger commitment to its mission, empowering individuals to participate in meaningful dialogue and help build a more inclusive and just society.

    The launch event served as a pivotal platform to showcase HinduPACT’s key impactful initiatives, each created to tackle significant issues affecting the Hindu community both globally and in the United States.

    • HAHRI (Hindus Advancing Human Rights): Inspired by the Bhagavad Gita’s call for righteousness, HAHRI champions human rights worldwide. This initiative has been instrumental in raising awareness and taking action against human rights violations, including the formal complaint regarding the “drip, drip genocide” faced by minorities in Pakistan, and advocating for persecuted Hindus in regions like Bangladesh, Kashmir, Afghanistan, and Canada. HAHRI also addresses broader issues of gender equality and racial justice.
    • CHINGARI (Coalition for Hindu Girls Abducted and their Rights): CHINGARI is a crucial human rights initiative focused on shedding light on the plight of Pakistani Hindu girls who are tragically abducted, forcibly converted, and sexually abused. Through global awareness campaigns, Chingari urges international action, particularly from the United States, to combat these horrific forced conversions and abductions.
    • AHAD (American Hindus Against Defamation): Established in 1997, AHAD stands as the pioneering Hindu movement globally dedicated to combating Hinduphobia and the denigration of Hindu scriptures, deities, icons, and cultural symbols across publications, mass media, and educational materials. AHAD leverages innovative AI methods to detect and counter Hindu hatred and ensure the sanctity of Hindu heritage.
    • HinduVote: This initiative seeks to integrate dharmic values into the democratic process. HinduVote actively collaborates with temples and community organizations to promote voter registration and education. It plays a critical role in informing candidates and legislators about the Hindu perspective on policy issues, providing American Hindu voters with detailed insights, including candidate questionnaires, feedback, and analyses of key votes and funding.

    About HinduPACT:

     The Hindu Policy Research and Advocacy Collective (HinduPACT) is dedicated to the advocacy and policy research of issues concerning the American Hindu community.  HinduPACT promotes human rights, voter education, and policies affecting American Hindus, aiming for peace and understanding through informed policy initiatives and grassroots advocacy. Visit https://hindupact.org for more details.

  • Rice-UH Researchers Develop Strong Biomaterial that Could Replace Plastic

    Rice-UH Researchers Develop Strong Biomaterial that Could Replace Plastic

    HOUSTON: Scientists at Rice University and the University of Houston have developed an innovative, scalable approach to engineer bacterial cellulose into high-strength, multifunctional materials. The study, published in Nature Communications, introduces a dynamic biosynthesis technique that aligns bacterial cellulose fibers in real-time, resulting in robust biopolymer sheets with exceptional mechanical properties.

    Plastic pollution persists because traditional synthetic polymers degrade into microplastics, releasing harmful chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates and carcinogens. Seeking sustainable alternatives, the research team led by Muhammad Maksud Rahman, assistant professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the University of Houston and adjunct assistant professor of materials science and nanoengineering at Rice, leveraged bacterial cellulose — one of Earth’s most abundant and pure biopolymers — as a biodegradable alternative.

    researcher
    M.A.S.R. Saadi is a first author on a study published in Nature Communications and a materials science and nanoengineering doctoral student at Rice University. (Photo by Jorge Vidal/Rice University)

    “Our approach involved developing a rotational bioreactor that directs the movement of cellulose-producing bacteria, aligning their motion during growth,” said M.A.S.R. Saadi, the study’s first author and a doctoral student in material science and nanoengineering at Rice. “This alignment significantly enhances the mechanical properties of microbial cellulose, creating a material as strong as some metals and glasses yet flexible, foldable, transparent and environment friendly.”

    Bacterial cellulose fibers usually form randomly, which limits their mechanical strength and functionality. By harnessing controlled fluid dynamics within their novel bioreactor, the researchers achieved in situ alignment of cellulose nanofibrils, creating sheets with tensile strength reaching up to 436 megapascals.

    Moreover, incorporating boron nitride nanosheets during synthesis resulted in a hybrid material with even greater strength — around 553 megapascals — and improved thermal properties, demonstrating a heat dissipation rate three times faster than control samples.

    “This dynamic biosynthesis approach enables the creation of stronger materials with greater functionality,” Saadi said. “The method allows for the easy integration of various nanoscale additives directly into the bacterial cellulose, making it possible to customize material properties for specific applications.”

    researcher and sample
    M.A.S.R. Saadi holds a sample of the new bionanocomposite material. (Photos by Jorge Vidal/Rice University)

    Shyam Bhakta, a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of BioSciences at Rice, played an important role in advancing the biological aspects of the study. Other Rice collaborators included Pulickel Ajayan, the Benjamin M. and Mary Greenwood Anderson Professor of Materials Science and NanoEngineering; Matthew Bennett, professor of biosciences; and Matteo Pasquali, the A.J. Hartsook Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

    “The synthesis process is essentially like training a disciplined bacterial cohort,” Saadi explained. “Instead of having the bacteria move randomly, we instruct them to move in a specific direction, thus precisely aligning their cellulose production. This disciplined motion and the versatility of the biosynthesis technique allows us to simultaneously engineer both alignment and multifunctionality.”

    researchers
    M.A.S.R. Saadi, a doctoral student at Rice University, and Muhammad Maksud Rahman, a professor at the University of Houston and Saadi’s adviser, have led a team of researchers who have developed an innovative, scalable approach to engineering bacterial cellulose into high-strength, multifunctional materials. (Photo by Jorge Vidal/Rice University)

    The scalable, single-step process holds significant promise for numerous industrial applications, including structural materials, thermal management solutions, packaging, textiles, green electronics and energy storage systems.

    “This work is a great example of interdisciplinary research at the intersection of materials science, biology and nanoengineering,” Rahman added. “We envision these strong, multifunctional and eco-friendly bacterial cellulose sheets becoming ubiquitous, replacing plastics in various industries and helping mitigate environmental damage.”

    The research was supported by the National Science Foundation (2234567), the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (23-JV−11111129-042) and the Welch Foundation (C-1668). The content herein is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the funding organizations and institutions.

  • ‘Dhadak 2’: Siddhant Chaturvedi Shines in this Poignant and Relevant Story

    By Dhaval Roy

    Story: The film follows the journey of Nilesh (Siddhant Chaturvedi), a law student from an oppressed caste who falls in love with his classmate Vidhi (Triptii Dimri), an upper-caste girl. Men from Vidhi’s family humiliate and harass him in a bid to protect their so‑called honour.

    Review: A remake of the Tamil movie Pariyerum Perumal and a sequel to Dhadak, director Shazia Iqbal’s film sets the narrative tone early on with the grim killing of a man for being in a relationship with a girl from an upper caste. The story then shifts to its protagonists, Nilesh and Vidhi, while touching upon the treatment of students from lower castes by their peers. Nilesh is ridiculed for his English, and a professor unceremoniously throws him out of class after dubbing his admission a “free seat.” Nilesh reminds us, “Free ki badi keemat chukaani padti hai” (one needs to pay the price for anything free). Alongside their budding romance, the narrative tackles the issue of casteism.

    The film delivers several heart‑wrenching moments depicting the injustice meted out to oppressed castes—some subtle, such as Vidhi’s father (Harish Khanna) leaving out Nilesh’s surname from the guest list to his elder daughter’s wedding, and others painfully blatant, like Nilesh being smeared with sludge by classmates. The plot also explores the violence and false allegations people from lower castes often endure. While these incidents are gut‑wrenching, the romantic arc between the leads feels underdeveloped.

    Written by Iqbal and Rahul Badwelkar, the narrative occasionally feels repetitive as it focuses heavily on Nilesh’s oppression. It also touches on student politics, showing Nilesh’s initial reluctance to get involved and hinting at his change of heart later, but the track fizzles out.

    The world of Dhadak 2 is bleak but not entirely black and white. The college dean (Zakir Hussain), himself from a lower caste, recalls how he was beaten to keep him from studying, yet now influential people seek him out for their children’s admission. Nilesh’s upper‑caste friend remains steadfastly by his side.

    Despite the intense subject matter, the film finds room for moments of humour that land well. The pacing is steady and Iqbal’s direction effective, though the final payoff could have been stronger. The narrative builds to a high, but the resolution is abrupt. The music, especially Siddharth–Garima’s soulful Duniya Alag and Javed–Mohsin’s heartfelt Bas Ek Dhadak, beautifully complements the narrative.

    Siddhant Chaturvedi is excellent, capturing the transformation from a meek young man to a self‑assured individual. Triptii Dimri is convincing as a naive yet supportive partner, while Vipin Sharma makes a brief but memorable impact as Nilesh’s father.

    The film is an engaging and heart‑rending watch, though the final resolution feels a touch restrained. It is worth watching for its sincere and sensitive portrayal of an issue that continues to plague society even today, and for a stellar performance by Siddhant Chaturvedi. — ToI

  • Janapriya Upscale’s Fullshear Central Celebrates Official Groundbreaking

    Janapriya Upscale’s Fullshear Central Celebrates Official Groundbreaking

    FULSHEAR: On Friday, July 25, 2025, Fulshear Central, a 22-acre mixed-use development, officially broke ground with a celebratory event attended by more than 100 guests. Located off FM 1093 in Fulshear, the upscale, state-of-the-art project offers over 130,000 square feet of development potential, with the first phase set for completion in early 2026. The event was emceed by Michael Garfield, “The High Tech Texan,” who welcomed guests and guided the program. The Fulshear Central team opened the afternoon with remarks about the project’s vision and the value it brings to the growing region. Janapriya Upscale CEO Kranti Kiran Reddy spoke about the group’s legacy and future plans, while Satya Guduru, CEO of the U.S. region, and Arvind Cheruku, Chief Information Officer, provided a detailed overview of the development’s layout, goals, and long-term potential.

    Kranti Kiran Reddy, Satya Guduru, Don McCoy, Arvind Cheruku celebrate the official groundbreaking of the Fullshear Central mixed-use development.

    Several city and county officials also took the stage, highlighting the significance of the moment. Fulshear Mayor Don McCoy welcomed guests and spoke on the city’s rapid growth and commitment to thoughtful, elevated development. City Manager Zach Goodlander expressed the city’s pride in the milestone and reflected on the close collaboration between the city and developers that helped bring the vision to life.

    Following the remarks, guests gathered for a ceremonial shovel lineup to commemorate the official groundbreaking. The celebration continued with refreshments provided by Texana Café and Safari Texas. Guests were able to explore the Fulshear Central grounds while commemorating the highly anticipated groundbreaking of Fulshear’s first mixed-use development.

     

  • ‘Spirit of Punjab’: Riyaaz Qawaali Presents Diverse Moods of Folk Music

    ‘Spirit of Punjab’: Riyaaz Qawaali Presents Diverse Moods of Folk Music

    HOUSTON: “The Spirit of Punjab” was a soulful Sufi folk journey by Riyaaz Qawaali, a Houston-based music group. The performance unfolded through the layered folk history of Punjab — where music has both memory and meaning.
    At its core, The Spirit of Punjab refuses the surface-level perception of Punjabi music as conveyed through only dhol and bhangra. The selected songs spoke of longing, displacement, resistance, and devotion.

    Riyaaz Qawaali has performed qawaalis for 19 years. The musicians, settled in Houston, have roots from India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, representing multiple religious backgrounds. Trained in eastern and western
    classical music, they have released two albums and over 35 singles on social media.

    Sonny K. Mehta, their founder, leads the ensemble as its artistic director. The show begins with the sadness that shapes a people: heartbreak, abandonment, and the loneliness of migration. From the pain of Heer to the wandering soul of Challa (originally performed by Gurdass Mann), these songs hold space for grief as a generational language — at home in both Punjab and Houston.

    The show weaved through spiritual traditions — Sikh, Muslim, and Hindu — without pausing to draw boundaries. Musical pieces like Yaar Da Deewana (Nooran Sisters), Isq Bulleh Nu Nachave (Kanwar Garewal) are rooted in
    shared divinity, much like the Houston communities, where temples, mosques, and churches stand side-by-side. Simplicity and poverty are the backdrops for spiritual clarity and poetic richness.

    Later in the set, the music lifts the voices of women — unapolegetic and playful — through folk traditions such as tappay (Chitra Singh) and songs like Saanja Hai Punjab Saada (Arif Lohar) . In a city shaped by migration and complexity, this is not just Punjab’s story — it’s Houston’s too. — program notes from Asia Society Texas.

  • $1 MM Gift to UT-Austin Advances Study of Jainism, South Asian Religions

    $1 MM Gift to UT-Austin Advances Study of Jainism, South Asian Religions

    L-R: JVB Houston Leaders Swatantra Jain and Dr. Sulekh Jain and Consul-General of India Honorable DC Manjunath welcome Philanthropist Dr. Jasvant Modi and UT-Austin Professor Donald Davis at the celebratory program

    HOUSTON: The Academic Liaison Committee (ALC) of Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) has established a new partnership with the University of Texas at Austin (UT-Austin) to establish The Tirthankar Sumatinath Distinguished Professorship in Jain Studies.

    This newest of 24 endowed professorships established by the ALC will reside in the UT-Austin’s Department of Asian Studies in the College of Liberal Arts at UT-Austin’s sprawling campus in the capital city of Texas, where the Jain Society of Greater Austin was founded in 1995 by 70 families – today, Austin has a thriving membership of over 250 families, and the UT-Austin is a flagship university of Texas, offering a broad curriculum that draws students from across the state and around the world. Presently, UT-Austin has nearly 55,000 students, mostly from Texas and hailing from Judeo-Christian backgrounds with a significant diversity of Asian students and faculty.

    Dr. Jasvant Modi, Philanthropist and President of Vardhaman Charitable Foundation addresses the celebratory gathering in the presence of JVB Samanijis.

    The ALC held a celebratory event on Saturday, July 19 at Jain Vishwa Bharati (JVB) Center in Houston, attended by six UT-Austin faculty members and nearly 100 members of the Jain community, comprised of donors, diplomats, civic officials, Jain nuns and interfaith dignitaries from Houston, Dallas and Austin as well as other parts of the United States. The elegant inauguration event began with a soulful recitation of the Navkar Mahamantra (the core prayer of Jainism) by four Samanijis (nuns) of JVB Houston and JVB Miami centers. JVB Chairman Dr. Swatantra Jain recognized all major donors whose generous gifts totaling $1 million enabled this permanent professorship at UT-Austin which completes the milestone sacred lineage of twenty-four Tirthankaras (or divine spiritual reformers and teachers of Jainism who have guided humanity towards the path to purification and salvation).

    Attendees from the Texas Jain community and UT-Austin and other faculty members and guests at JVB Houston’s celebratory event organized for the Tirthankar Sumatinath Distinguished Professorship held on July 19, 2025.

    Realizing a vision that has been several years in the making, ALC Founder and Past Chairman, Dr. Sulekh C. Jain, (who also co-founded JVB Houston with Swatantra Jain) thanked Professor Donald R. Davis for visiting the Jain Society of Houston (an organization with over 1000 Jain families) nearly ten years ago as part of the early relationship building and for his interest in teaching Jainism, a religion which inspired Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela and many other changemakers to follow the path of non-violence.

    Dr. Jain stated there is a growing interest at campuses around the world in teaching Jainism and its timeless values such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (tolerance for multiple perspectives) and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness and sustainable living) either on a stand-alone basis or in comparative religions classes and degree programs. He recalled that the first endowed professorship in Jain Studies was established at Florida International University in Miami in 2010, and presently, fifty-five (55) universities in thirteen (13) countries around the world offer undergraduate and graduate courses in Jain studies. In 2025 alone, the ALC has established fully funded endowed programs in Jain Studies at Claremont School of Theology, Arihanta Institute (a three-year old online Jain university), University of Arizona at Tucson, and also funded two new PhD research programs and a post-doctoral fellowship at University of Oxford (UK), while negotiations are progressing at a leading institution in Washington DC and two large universities in Japan.

    The ALC’s partnership with the Pune (India)-based International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) has trained about 1,200 students and scholars from over 40 universities and 26 countries in Jain studies by hosting visits to India or in online programs. This partnership feeds the pipeline of graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and competent faculty equipped with advanced knowledge in Jainism so that they could address pivotal issues pertinent to humanity and the global Jain community which has five million followers in India and about 300,000 in over 35 nations worldwide. The ALC’s larger vision is to preserve and propagate core Jain teachings while making the world a better place for humanity and the planet.

    The new faculty position at UT-Austin will report to Professor Donald R. Davis, Chair of the Religious Studies Department. The department will offer in perpetuity year-round courses and research opportunities incorporating Jain philosophy and principles to train students and scholars in areas of personal and organizational transformation such as non-violence, tolerance, ethics, languages, yoga and wellness, environmentalism, peace studies and sustainable development.

    In their remarks, UT-Austin College of Arts Dean David Sosa, Professor Akbar Hyder (from UT-Austin’s South-Asia Institute) and Professor Davis emphasized the philanthropic gifts will greatly aid the Distinguished Professorship to utilize multiple learning modes such as academic studies, field visits and seminars in critical inquiry and analysis of Jain principles, thereby meeting the UT-Austin’s mission to spawn leaders who can integrate learnings into real-world scenarios and positively impact their respective organizations and communities. The faculty members collectively thanked all donors for their gifts which will enable knowledge dissemination beyond college students, via the university’s extended outreach to a dozen high schools, junior colleges and the interfaith community.

    DC Manjunath, Honorable Consul General of India in Houston, congratulated the gathering on this academic initiative at UT-Austin, praising the contributions of ancient Jain sages he was influenced by when growing up in his home states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He also cited the recent global celebration of Navkar Mahamantra Divas on April 9, 2025 (for recitation of Jain prayers to foster world peace) with an inspiring call to action by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to follow the teachings of Jainism for sustainable living.

    Ms. Tiffany D. Thomas, Houston City Councilwoman for District F, lauded the UT-Austin and Jain community for working together in promoting non-violence, compassion and truth, and presented Swatantra Jain with a certificate of recognition to JVB Houston for upholding these values.

    As the lead benefactor for the ALC and major donor for the UT-Austin Distinguished Professorship in Jain Studies, philanthropist Dr. Jasvant Modi (President of Vardhaman Charitable Foundation) emphasized that the Jain community has evolved from undertaking temple-building projects as early settlers in the diaspora, to building new knowledge centers for sustaining and propagating Jain teachings to transform humanity. He stated “This ALC collaboration with UT-Austin fulfills our call for action to invest in peace, nurture compassionate global citizens, and shape resilient communities for generations to come.”

    Dr. Manish Mehta, Vice-Chair of the ALC, stated that by studying the ancient Jain philosophy which dates to nearly 5,000 years, modern day students can gain a profound science-based awareness of ethical living and apply it to navigate the balance between development and environmental stewardship while learning to appreciate the interconnectedness of life, as Jainism engenders respect for all living beings.

    Mr. Gaurav Jhaveri, President of JVB Houston concluded the celebration with a vote of thanks to all attendees.

    Highlights of the JVB Houston’s celebration and excerpts of other presentations may be viewed in this four-minute video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYbZGVbgel0

  • Ramesh Cherivirala Listed in Forbes’ Top Financial Security Professionals

    Ramesh Cherivirala Listed in Forbes’ Top Financial Security Professionals

    HOUSTON: Ramesh Cherivirala from the Houston of New York Life has been listed on the 2025 Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals Best-in-State list. The individuals named to this list of distinguished professionals were chosen based on many criteria considered by an independent research firm. A New York Life agent for 24 years, Dr. Cherivirala received this recognition for helping his clients in a world in which wealth preservation and protection matter more than ever.

    “We are honored that Ramesh appears on this prestigious list,” said Rob Hodgkiss, managing partner of the Houston General Office. “New York Life has known for quite some time what a valuable asset Ramesh has been to our family and to many families and businesses in our community.”

    Ramesh is a Financial Advisor, offering advisory services through Eagle Strategies, LLC, a registered investment advisor. He is a member of Nautilus Group, The Nautilus Group® is a service of New York Life Insurance Company
    providing dedicated support to approximately 230 qualifying member agents, the company’s top producers who work primarily in the advanced and high net worth markets. He received a PhD degree from Osmania University,
    Hyderabad, India and LUTC®, and FSCP® designations from American College. He has been a resident of Texas for over 3 decades and currently lives in Sugar Land for the past 24 years, married to Anuradha and has two children
    Sushain and Spoorthi.

  • What is in the One Big Beautiful Bill?

    What is in the One Big Beautiful Bill?

    By Chetan K. Dave

    Congress recently passed the legislation known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) and signed into law on July 4th. Only some major aspects have been covered by the media but there are a lot of smaller provisions which have not received much attention because the bill was a sprawling 900+ page document. Given how little time was available, hardly any Congressman or Senator has read the entire the document before voting.

    Items marked (*) have conditions attached to them.

    Key highlights are:

    ·       No change to current personal tax brackets.

    ·       Deduction for state and local taxes increased to $40,000 from $10,000 (*)

    ·       Income from Tips and Overtime pay up to $25,000 is exempt until 2028 (*)

    ·       Interest on loan for vehicles assembled in US is tax deductible (Tesla, GM, Ford etc.)

    ·       Seniors (65 yrs+) will be able to deduct $6,000 from their taxable income but Social Security income will remain taxable (*)

    ·       New tax deferred “Trump Accounts” opened for newborn children of US citizens between 2025 and 2028 will receive $1,000 from govt and parents/family can contribute $5,000/yr. Money can be used for higher education and house downpayment etc.

    ·       $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit to be ended by September 2025

    ·       There are many changes to Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Access Program). One major change is a new 80 hr/ month work requirement for people 19 to 64 yrs old. Verification of eligibility will change from once a year to every six months.

    ·       Establishes minimum staffing ratios for nursing homes. This may cause many nursing homes to close down.

    ·       New 5-year waiting period for new green card holders before being able to apply for Medicaid.

    ·       Federal funding for SNAP will be reduced from 75% to 25%. States will have to fill the gap or reduce benefits and coverage.

    ·       Estate tax exemption will be permanently increased from $6.5 million to $15 million per person. $30 million per married couple. This will benefit wealthy households.

    ·       1% tax on all remittances sent abroad by non-US citizens

    ·       Purchases on Temu and Shein will no longer be exempt from tariffs.

    ·       Department of Defense budget increased by $150 Billion

    ·       Immigration (ICE) funding increased by $170 Billion. This is more than FBI, Drug Enforcement Agency and Bureau of Prisons combined.

    ·       NASA budget increased by $10 Billion, $85 million of which will pay for relocating Space Shuttle Liberty to Houston.

    ·       Student loan repayment moratorium is cancelled and repayments will resume.

    ·       Student loans for graduate school capped at $20,500/yr  ($50,000/yr for medical and law schools) and a lifetime cap of $257,000.

    ·       Small business owners will be able to immediately expense 100% of any purchase of equipment and certain R&D and capital expenses.

    Overall, OBBB will add $3.4 Trillion to the national debt over 10 years, the single largest increase to deficit ever and the largest during peacetime. The law also included a $5 Trillion increase to the national debt ceiling. This Bill consistently polled to be unpopular. Fox News poll before the passage showed 59% opposed and 29% in favor.

  • Guru Krupa Foundation: A Pillar of Strength for Ekal Vidyalaya’s Mission

    Guru Krupa Foundation: A Pillar of Strength for Ekal Vidyalaya’s Mission

    In the heart of India’s most remote villages, where access to education and resources is scarce, a powerful force is at work—Ekal Vidyalaya. Driving this movement is a deep-seated belief in empowerment through literacy and skill development, a mission that has been amplified by the unwavering support of the Guru Krupa Foundation (GKF). Their commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities has not only transformed countless lives but has also reinforced the very essence of Ekal’s vision.

    A Partnership Rooted in Compassion and Purpose:

    Guru Krupa Foundation, a compassionate force from New York, was built on the simple yet powerful values of helping those in need, spreading knowledge, and keeping cultural roots alive. In Ekal Vidyalaya, they found a perfect partner—a shared dream of bringing education, healthcare and economic prosperity to the most remote villages in India. 

    Since 2013, GKF has been a guiding light in Ekal’s journey, funding schools, introducing e-learning with tablets, and making sure no child is left behind, no matter how far they live. Beyond education, GKF has also supported Integrated Village Development, helping communities grow through better healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and sustainable living.

    Mukund Padmanabhan ji, the visionary behind GKF, strongly believes in education as the foundation for breaking the cycle of poverty, stating: “Providing children with quality education is the best way to help them break out of poverty. Primary education provides the basic foundation on which later successes can be built.” It is this belief that has driven GKF’s extensive contributions to Ekal’s cause.

    The Impact of GKF: Transforming 30 Villages in Amrabad, Telangana Through Skill Development and Empowerment:

    With the support of Guru Krupa Foundation, the Ekal Integrated Village Development (IVD) program is transforming 30 villages in Amrabad by fostering education, digital literacy, healthcare, and skill training over five years.

    📍 Villages Served: 30
     👥 Population Reached: 4,096
     🎓 Beneficiaries This Quarter: CTL – 22, WEC – 20, Farming – 150
     📈 Total Trained to Date: CTL – 194, WEC – 233, Farming – 964

    A key focus is women’s empowerment, equipping them with tailoring, handicrafts, and mushroom farming skills to achieve financial independence. Farmers are trained in organic farming, pest control, and food preservation, boosting yields and incomes by connecting them to better markets.

    The program also brings virtual healthcare consultations to remote villages, promotes homegrown nutrition for food security, and educates communities on sanitation, clean water, and disease prevention, ensuring a healthier, self-sufficient future.

    A Future of Empowerment & Opportunity:

    Through digital literacy, skill training, and sustainable agriculture, villagers are gaining the tools to shape their own futures. Women are becoming entrepreneurs, farmers are improving their yields, and youth are mastering digital skills—fostering independence and self-reliance in rural Bharat.

    This transformation would not be possible without Guru Krupa Foundation’s generosity, which 

    continues to light the path toward a future where every child learns, every woman is empowered, and every family has the chance to prosper.

    🔗 Learn more about Guru Krupa Foundation: guru-krupa.org

  • ‘So Long Valley’ : Thrills in the Hills with Just Enough Chills

    By Ronak Kotecha

    Story: When a young woman disappears while traveling from Shimla to Manali, a frantic search begins, pulling the local police into a dangerous chase. But what seems like a straightforward kidnapping quickly spirals into something far more sinister.

    Review: Psychological thrillers demand a unique balance of intrigue and tension. Unlike classic whodunits, where the mystery hinges on the culprit’s identity, here the suspense is built around the perpetrator’s next move, their motive, and whether the victim will survive.

    So Long Valley attempts to deliver on these expectations—and, to an extent, succeeds.Director Man Singh, who not only helms the film but also portrays Inspector Dev while penning its story and dialogues, sets the tone early with a gripping, atmospheric opening. On a rain-soaked evening in Shimla, Moushmi (Alisha Parveen) storms into the local police station to report her sister, Riya (Akanksha Puri), missing after she left for Manali hours ago but never arrived. The narrative gains traction as Inspector Suman Negi (Tridha Choudhury) takes personal charge of the case, determined to crack a mystery that threatens her otherwise quiet jurisdiction. What begins as a missing person’s complaint quickly turns into a high-stakes hunt against time—Riya could be dead or alive, and every passing hour matters.

    The story is relatively straightforward, and while the pacing is steady, the tension doesn’t peak as often as it should. The suspense builds gradually rather than in sharp bursts, which may feel slow for some viewers. What keeps the engagement alive is Vikram Kochhar’s solid performance as Kuldeep, the temperamental taxi driver whose unpredictability adds much-needed edge to the proceedings. His portrayal strikes a fine balance between menace and vulnerability, ensuring the character remains unsettling without slipping into caricature.

    One of the film’s biggest strengths lies in its setting. The cold, mist-laden hills of Himachal Pradesh serve as both a visual treat and an eerie canvas for the dark tale. Srikant Pattnaik’s cinematography captures this contrast beautifully—the pristine landscapes juxtaposed with the lurking sense of dread work perfectly to amplify the mood.However, the film is not without flaws. The overall production feels restricted to a modest scale, with limited characters and locations, making it resemble a chamber drama at times. More distracting, though, is the overbearing background score, which often feels unnecessarily loud and intrusive. Thrillers thrive on subtlety, and the constant need to hammer tension through blaring sound cues undermines moments that could have been naturally chilling. At just over two hours, the film maintains a crisp runtime, and the absence of songs avoids unnecessary distractions.

    Performance-wise, the cast does a commendable job. Tridha Choudhury lends grit to her cop role, Akanksha Puri portrays vulnerability convincingly, and Alisha Parveen fits well as the anxious younger sister. Together, they anchor the narrative with authenticity.

    Just when you begin to think you’ve figured it all out, the film pulls out a twist in its final act—an unexpected turn that redeems its otherwise linear trajectory. This surprise element, coupled with the strong central performances and stunning visuals, makes So Long Valley a watchable addition to the genre. — ToI

  • World-renowned Sanskrit Scholar to Share Timeless Wisdom in Houston – July 25–27

    World-renowned Sanskrit Scholar to Share Timeless Wisdom in Houston – July 25–27

    Acharya Pradyumnaji (left) with Swami Ramdev

    HOUSTON: Get ready for a weekend of spiritual awakening!

    Acharya Dr. Pradyumna Ji Maharaj, a Vedic scholar and mentor to Yoga guru Swami Ramdev Ji, will be in Houston from July 23 to 27, 2025.

    Who is Acharya Dr. Pradyumna Ji Maharaj?

    Acharya Dr. Pradyumna Ji Maharaj, born in 1955, in Alwar, Rajasthan, is a venerated Sanskrit scholar and spiritual guide. A disciple of great masters like Swami Vedanand Vedavagish and Prof. Mani Dravid, he has mastered Pāṇini’s grammar, Vedanta, Mimamsa, and Vedic philosophy.

    Founder of Ārsha Gurukul, Khanpur (Haryana), Acharyaji has dedicated his life to imparting traditional Vedic education free of charge. From 2010 to 2020, he served as Acharya at Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar, teaching Aṣṭādhyāyī, Mahābhāṣya, Upanishads, Darshana, Geeta, and Ayurveda.

    A revered teacher of world-renowned disciples like Swami Ramdev Ji Maharaj and Acharya Balkrishna Ji Maharaj, Acharyaji has been honored with several awards, including the Aryaratna Award (2012) and the Pt. Yudhishthir Mimansaka Acharya Award (2011).

    Through TV channels, YouTube, and online sessions, Acharyaji continues to share the wisdom of the Vedas, Geeta, and Upanishads, inspiring spiritual seekers across the world.

    Acharyaji was awarded an Honorary D.Litt. degree by Karnataka Sanskrit University in 2022, acknowledging his outstanding scholarship and lifelong service in Sanskrit and Vedic studies.

    First visit to US

    This will be Acharyaji’s first visit to the United States, taking place from July 18 to August 8, 2025, with programs scheduled in Atlanta, Houston, Washington D.C., Seattle, and San Francisco.

    Acharyaji will deliver discourses on the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Geeta, Vedas, and Indian philosophy.

    All sessions will be conducted in Hindi.

    The three-day program in Houston will feature:

    • Yogeshawar Bhagwan Krishna’s Teachings and Assurances
      Friday, July 25 | 6:00–7:00 PM
      VPSS Haveli Mandir, 11715 Bellfort Village Dr, Houston, TX 77031
      Contact: Niranjan Patel (281-630-3875), Rasesh Dalal (832-646-4996)
    • Practical Lessons from The Geeta
      Saturday, July 26 | 4:00–5:30 PM
      India House, 8888 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77031
      Register: https://www.indiahouseinc.org/timeless-wisdom/| 713-929-1900
    • Great Teachings of the Vedas
      Sunday, July 27 | 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
      Arya Samaj Greater Houston, 14375 Schiller Rd, Houston, TX 77082
      Contact: Sanjay Jain (281-989-0532), Sanjay Sood (281-935-6147)

    All sessions will be streamed live via Zoom (Passcode: guruji) and on YouTube at @AcharyaPradyumnaOfficial.

    If you would like to host a program, arrange a satsang, or welcome Gurudev’s divine presence to your home or center, please reach out using the contact information below.

    For coordination and scheduling, please contact Shekhar Agarwal.
    Email: shekharagrawal@gmail.com
    Phone number: +1 (713) 443-8228

    Find out more here: https://www.facebook.com/AcharyaPradyumnaOfficial/

  • BANA Academic Fest is on August 9, 2025. Kick-start Your Child’s School Academic Contest!

    BANA Academic Fest is on August 9, 2025. Kick-start Your Child’s School Academic Contest!

    MISSOURI CITY: BANA has announced the 2025 Academic Fest to be held on August 9, 2024 at First United Methodist Church, 3900 Lexington Blvd, Missouri City, TX 77459. This will be an in-person event.

    As in the past years the contests will include Math, Science, Arts, Spelling Bee, Vocabulary, Speech, Debate, SAT etc. The math and science tests will be written by TMSCA specially for BANA. These tests will also serve as nice preparation for the TMSCA and UIL Contests during the upcoming school year.

    As you are aware TMSCA and UIL work in close partnership. Spelling Bee will be organized by SpellPundit.com. The BANA Executive Committee has been trying hard to bring the best possible contest for the children to learn, participate and excel in this year’s contest. The flyer gives some additional details.

    The registration charge is very nominal and is for all activities for the event day. We have a capacity of only 150, so please register your children ASAP!

  • TCC SUMMER T10 2025 | WINNERS: WOMCC | RUNNERS-UP: CSK

    TCC SUMMER T10 2025 | WINNERS: WOMCC | RUNNERS-UP: CSK

    Champions: WOMCC

    HOUSTON: WOMCC clinched their second consecutive TCC Taped Ball Championship in an absolute thriller, defeating a valiant CSK team who put up a fantastic fight.

    WOMCC opting to bowl first after winning the toss, faced a determined CSK batting lineup. CSK posted a strong total of 90 in their allotted 10 overs. Sunil Patel scored 33 runs out of 23 balls, helping CSK to get a good total. Ali Bangash Ali played a brisk cameo, scoring 17 runs off just 9 balls, injecting momentum into the innings at a crucial stage. His quickfire knock featured stroke play and proved valuable in boosting the team’s total.

    Runners Up: CSK

    Jayanth Kalakuntla and Pradeep Naidu Dasu were the standout bowlers for WOMCC, both delivering an exceptional spell of 2 overs for just 15 runs and picking up 2 crucial wickets, while the other WOMCC bowlers provided solid support to keep CSK from running away with a bigger total. Behind the stumps, wicketkeeper Prakash Parthiban was impressive and quick behind the wickets, taking four sharp catches and showcasing excellent glove work throughout the innings.

    WOMCC’s innings began with a burst of aggression, led by Captain Harsha Teja and Prakash Parthiban. Prakash set the tone with a blistering 22 off just 11 balls, launching a fierce assault that immediately put the opposition on the back foot. His explosive start laid a strong foundation for the chase. Following that, Viswatej Mudigonda anchored the innings with a composed and well-crafted 29, ensuring WOMCC stayed firmly in contention.

    In a nail-biting finish, WOMCC needed 8 runs off the final over but lost two quick wickets in the first three balls, turning the game into a tense affair. Rising to the occasion, Pradeep Naidu Dasu held his nerve and delivered under pressure, smashing a crucial four followed by a match-winning six to take WOMCC over the line in dramatic fashion. His calmness under fire turned out to be the game-changer.

    The WOMCC bowling unit was outstanding throughout the tournament, and special kudos to Viswatej Mudigonda, Abhiram Sirigineedi, Harsha Teja, who bowled exceptionally well, applying relentless pressure on opposition batters and contributing crucially to key moments. Their disciplined spells played a huge role in the team’s championship run.

    Viswatej Mudigonda consistent brilliance with the bat, Prakash Parthiban’s explosive knock, and Pradeep Naidu final over finish were key highlights, supported by disciplined bowling performances throughout the game. Pradeep’s composure under immense pressure in the final over showcased his nerves of steel and proved vital in securing WOMCC thrilling victory.

    Neelesh Musale, the proud owner, Harsha Teja the aggressive captain and Jayanth Kalakuntla, the energetic vice-captain, were all instrumental in leading WOMCC to get another championship, maintaining their perfect 3/5 record in the TCC finals!

    The victory was followed by a vibrant presentation ceremony, organized by Jagadish, the organizers. Captain Harsha Teja and team owner Neelesh Musale received the Winners’ Trophy for WOMCC, while the Runners-up Trophy was collected by CSK’S captain Aravinth Ganesh. Pradeep Naidu and Prakash Parthiban from WOMCC were the MOM for the final for brilliant bowling and hitting match winning runs. Viswatej Mudigonda named MVP of the tournament for his exceptional all-rounder performance.

    Tournament award winners were. Nishant Padihar  from All Stars CC got best batsman with 168 runs, Sachin from JCC, Kalyan from ECC & Shashivardhan from RSCC got best bowler with 9 wickets each. Thisara from All Stars CC got the best wicketkeeper with 23 dismissals. Kavindu from All Stars CC got Best All Rounder with 149 runs and 7 wickets. Shashivardhan from RSCC, Hemanth from Javelinas-Genx got special awards for Hattrick.

    Cricclubs score card is https://cricclubs.com/3T/viewScorecard.do?matchId=2675&clubId=8675

    YouTube link is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyMEf-50wXI

    Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket.com/?p=1112

  • Club 24 Plus Partners with Houston Food Bank, Raising over $100,000 for Hunger Relief

    Club 24 Plus Partners with Houston Food Bank, Raising over $100,000 for Hunger Relief

    Indo-American group Club 24 Plus raised over $100,000 to fight food insecurity. (From left) Ashish Agarwal, Mansukh Vaghela, Paul Vo, Gisela Vo, Venu Rao, Elsie Rao, Ashok Garg, Prabha Garg, Manisha Gandhi, Shephali Kadia, Juhi Varma, Vanita Pothuri, Rosh Rajan, Rita Singh, Rahul Pothuri. (Photo: Paul Vo)

    By Juhi Varma

    HOUSTON: On July 13—Houston’s own 713 Day, celebrating the city’s iconic area code—Indo-American organization Club 24 Plus marked the occasion with a philanthropic effort, raising more than $100,000 to help combat food insecurity in H-Town.

    Members of Club 24 Plus gathered at the Houston Food Bank’s 308,000-square-foot facility on Portwall Street to celebrate the milestone.

    Club 24 Plus offered an initial matching fund of $10,000.  Donations soon poured in from regular Houston Food Bank donors and Club 24 Plus members, bringing the total raised to over $100,000.

    “Before we knew it, the contributions from regular Houston Food Bank donors started arriving,” said founder member Ashok Garg. “All put together including initial matching fund, we raised a more than $100,000, for Houston Food Bank. Each dollar generates three meals and the total raised funds will provide more than 300,000 meals to families in need.”

    Sameera and Ashish Mahendru donated $5,000.

    “We are grateful to be part of Club 24 Plus and its commitment to service,” said Sameera Mahendru. “The Houston Food Bank is a worthy cause with significant impact on the community and our family has been proud to support HFB through the years.”

    In past years, Club 24 Plus has supported various causes with donations ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, Garg said, but this year the organization focused on making a larger, more direct impact in Houston.

    Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Houston

    A majority of the club members expressed a strong interest in tackling food insecurity in Houston, Garg said, leading to the group’s 713 Day collaboration with the Houston Food Bank.

    Nearly one million people rely on Houston Food Bank each year, many of them working families struggling to make ends meet, said Amy Ragan, Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Food Bank.

    “The significance of today is that it’s not just about celebrating Houston—it’s about giving back and making this a very special day for the city,” Ragan said, thanking Garg and Club 24 Plus for their 713 Day fundraiser.

    “Thanks to the Houston Food Bank, they transformed the fundraiser at scale into extraordinary success,” said Club 24 Plus member Paul Vo, who donated $500.

    Ragan shared that the Houston Food Bank, the largest in the U.S., distributes 140 million nutritious meals annually across 18 Southeast Texas counties. She encouraged continued community support, noting that federal funding cuts make local contributions like these more critical than ever.

    “The support is really needed because we are being impacted by the federal funding cuts– about $11 million– we’ve had to cut staff and it will also affect the commodities that we’re going to receive,” she said. “We will be receiving a lot less, and as a result, we will focus more on produce.”

    Plans are also underway for a second facility in Northwest Houston, on land donated by Chevron, Ragan said.  In addition to distributing fresh produce, the new center will house partner organizations under the same roof—offering services such as job training, legal aid, health care, and YMCA programs—so families can access multiple resources in one place as they work toward self-sufficiency.

    What is Club 24 Plus?

    Founded in 2006, Club 24 Plus is known for blending social networking, cultural exchange, and philanthropy. Over the years, it has raised more than $1.2 million for more than 10 charitable organizations including UNICEF, Save-A-Mother, and Ekal Vidyalaya.

    “Contribution to Houston Food Bank is another example of Club24 Plus’s philanthropic activities that has been going on for decades,” said Ashish Agarwal, Club 24 Plus member and founder of the nonprofit Disha USA.  “I am grateful to be part of such an amazing group of individuals.”

    This latest event at the Houston Food Bank was a salute Houston itself. Holding the meeting on 713 Day was a deliberate nod to the city the members call home, reinforcing the club’s mission of building bridges between the Indo-American community and the greater Houston population.

    “I have a personal feeling that next year, if we do an initial donation of $20,000, we will raise even more,” Garg said. “Because we already have other members who have come on board and including them, next year, will be initiating this matching fund available to Houston Food Bank. It has picked up some wind.”

  • ‘Nikita Roy’: A Rushed Thriller that Evokes Fear but Falters in Building Suspense

    ‘Nikita Roy’: A Rushed Thriller that Evokes Fear but Falters in Building Suspense

    By Renuka Vyavahare

    Story: Author Nikita Roy (Sonakshi Sinha) suspects foul play in her brother Sanal’s death (Arjun Rampal). She rushes to London to investigate his murder and discovers that he was out to expose a cult leader Amar Dev (Paresh Rawal) before being haunted by a demonic entity. What’s the truth?

    Review: Director Kussh S Sinha takes an offbeat path to make his directorial debut. A horror-thriller continues to be an uncharted territory in mainstream Bollywood. Very few have attempted and succeeded to nail this genre. With his younger sister at the helm, Kussh makes a tad wobbly and hurried but fairly gripping thriller.

    The film aims to pit superstition against science and faith against blind faith. The concepts works but execution falters. The film dives straight into investigation from the get-go without establishing the characters and their story. And at most times, the actions of the curious protagonist (Nikita) seem oblivious to the danger that engulfs her. It’s good to be brave, not unaware. Courage is wise, not blind. She holds Amar Dev accountable and vows to bring him to justice in seven days without a strategy to challenge him head on. He gives her three days to live. Who wins?

    Sonakshi Sinha exudes strength and determination. Paresh Rawal deserved more screen time for their conflict to mean something. The thriller sets the stage for something chilling, but the narrative doesn’t make the most of its compelling idea. This could have perhaps worked as a web series better.

    Should you watch it? If you are obsessed with atmospheric thrillers, you won’t mind this one just for its fear element, the story feels flat. — ToI

  • Indo-American Charity Foundation Launches Emergency Flood Relief Fundraising for Texas Hill Country

    Indo-American Charity Foundation Launches Emergency Flood Relief Fundraising for Texas Hill Country

    HOUSTON: The Texas Hill Country was hit by devastating floods over the July 4th weekend, the floodwater may have receded but death toll has risen beyond 130, search continues for more than 160 unaccounted people and economic damage is estimated to be $22 billion.
    In response to this crisis, IACF has partnered with local organizations across Houston to raise funds for the relief and rebuilding efforts in the City of Kerrville – one of the hardest-hit areas. IACF is grateful for the support of its partnering organizations, who have come together to amplify this cause and help Texas families rise again.
    All Members of IACF and its partnering organizations are working diligently to help fellow Texans.
    “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this disaster. Our prayers are with those who have suffered, and we stand in solidarity with the first responders and volunteers providing critical support during this challenging time, Let’s stand together, Texas Strong.” said Pankaj Rana, President of IACF.
    The Indo-American Charity Foundation (IACF) is calling on the community to come together in support of families impacted by the devastating floods that have recently struck the Texas Hill Country.
    How You Can Help:
    IACF urges everyone to donate. Every dollar builds Hope.
    100% of the proceeds will go directly to the City of Kerrville for official relief and rebuilding initiatives.

    All contributions are tax-deductible.

    Fundraising Goal: $500,000

    Donate: Scan the QR code on the flyer or donate via Zelle at 281-313-0323.
    PayPal and other details: www.iacfhouston.com
    For more information, please contact:
    Pankaj Rana, President – 772-444-7262
    Ramesh Chervirala, Special Ops Director – 713-875-4336
    Gobind Kamnani, Community Outreach Director – 713-594-0029
    Dr. Venkateswer Surabhi, Secretary – 281-450-9802
    About IACF:
    The Indo-American Charity Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, dedicated to supporting communities in times of need, for past 37 years. Motto is, We live here, We give here.
  • Urgent Appeal from Sewa International : Texas Hill Country Flood Relief

    Urgent Appeal from Sewa International : Texas Hill Country Flood Relief

    Sewa International immediately mobilized over 100 volunteers from San Antonio, Houston, Austin, and Dallas are on the ground, who are distributing emergency supplies, comforting families, and helping coordinate rescue and recovery.

    HOUSTON: Sewa International has reached out following the devastating flash floods in the Texas Hill Country – waters rising to 29 feet in minutes that left entire communities drowned in grief and uncertainty.

    Sewa International immediately mobilized over 100 volunteers from San Antonio, Houston, Austin, and Dallas are on the ground, distributing emergency supplies, comforting families, and helping coordinate rescue and recovery.

    But the hardest part lies ahead—families who survived must now rebuild. Their hope depends on the strength and compassion of people like you.

    How You Can Help

    Donate: Financial support fuels relief and long-term rebuilding

    Volunteer: Help us transport aid and house volunteers

    Spread the Word: Engage your community, temples, and organizations

    Tragedy has struck, but together, we can uplift those who are suffering. Share this appeal. Extend your hand. Show that compassion knows no boundaries.

    Here are some useful links

    Donation link – https://sewausa.org/TexasHillCountryFloodRelief2025

    NDTV coverage Video – https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Bq1PhEtjJ/

    Volunteer registration – https://forms.gle/YDefWWcbnuTvvuse9

    Link to pictures of Sewa efforts on the ground – https://photos.app.goo.gl/RJjq4uzvXPDjWwsz9

    Houston area Flood Response Volunteer WhatsApp group – https://chat.whatsapp.com/LuBhUo4YE5I3EpGBsRwoul?mode=r_c

    Your support is a lifeline. Let’s bring hope where it’s needed most.

  • The Best Five Days of the Year: Inside the Magic of HHYC

    The Best Five Days of the Year: Inside the Magic of HHYC

    Camp Counselors: Top Row: Pratham Rathi, Arrin Desai, Sarthak Bansal, Aarav Singh, Abhishek Pratap, Shrey Parekh, Bhavya Kansal, Saahith Garg, Aarav Shah, Arnav Devani, Arnav Agrawal, Aditya Meenakshisundaram, Saahas Ganesh Fourth Row: Hriday Bhutada, Suraj Vadapalli, Rishabh Raaj, Aneesh Deshmukh, Aditya Tirlotkar, Krissh Medepalli, Shubham Agrawal, Sidd Gokhale, Smeet Parekh, Neil Bhattacharya, Shivam Gaikaiwari Third Row: Shakti Dash, Saaj Patel, Aman Patel, Dhruv Parekh, Akhil Vaidya, Aditya Dhiman, Harini Ganesh, Nidhi Gupta, Raddha Guha, Sanjana Mittal, Maya Neti, Prisha Menon, Riti Patel, Archana Arangil Second Row: Rishabh Ashar, Harshada Krish, Pari Dhawan, Siddhi Bavare, Shreya Thakekar, Anvi Bawiskar, Anuva Mundra, Aadya Jain, Eesha Patel, Medha Koniki, Radhika Patwardhan, Veda Javalagi Bottom Row: Amshu Naglikar, Ashritha Simhadri, Krupa Rathi, Yasha Kaushal, Reya Patel, Diti Kulkarni, Anushka Prabhu, Trisha Gurnani, Suhani Shah, Avanthi Reddy, Nivi Manika

    By Shreya Thakekar

    HOUSTON: Of all the acronyms we toss around, one always sparks smiles and good vibes: HHYC — four letters that stand for the best five days of the year.

    Camp Directors: Keshav Shah (left), Srushti Gaikaiwari, and Smit Shah

    After months of planning, we’re thrilled to welcome campers to another unforgettable week of learning, bonding, and growth. The 41st year of the Hindu Heritage Youth Camp (HHYC) is kicking off soon. Since 1985, this camp has built a bridge for Hindu-Americans in the Greater Houston Area to celebrate cultural traditions and uncover the deeper lessons of Hinduism. HHYC is part of the Hindus of Greater Houston.

    HHYC is more than a camp. It’s a space where campers explore identity, build confidence, and form lifelong friendships. It’s where our vibrant culture is celebrated with joy and pride. As a first-time counselor, I’m filled with excitement and anticipation for this year’s camp.

    Growing up, I didn’t have a strong Hindu community around me. I rarely met kids who celebrated the same holidays or spoke the same languages as I did at home. Hinduism often felt like something distant, reserved for temple visits or family rituals. But HHYC changed that. It gave me a safe place to connect with others and realize how large and welcoming our community truly is.

    What I love most about HHYC is the balance – one moment, we’re planning lessons and coordinating activities; the next, we’re racing across the field playing games like Coconut Tree. Holi is another favorite, where we cover each other in color and laugh until we can’t breathe. Looking around and seeing directors, counselors, and campers all dusted in the same rainbow shades reflects the spirit of HHYC: joy, equality, and togetherness. Through it all, I’ve made incredible friends, some of whom I met at Sunday meetings and bonded with at camp.

    And none of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our donors. As a nonprofit, HHYC runs on the selfless seva of those working behind the scenes. With 86 counselors on board, we’ve spent Sundays crafting thoughtful lessons – from Bhagavad Gita teachings to pop culture connections to help campers walk away with new insights and a stronger sense of belonging.

    This year, I’ll be teaching lessons based on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text written between the first and second century BCE. Though ancient, its wisdom is still deeply relevant. While we may not face a battlefield like Arjuna, we all experience moments of doubt or confusion. With courage, good guidance, and the right mindset, we can overcome anything. I’m eager to show how these lessons connect to our daily lives.

    At the heart of this effort are our incredible directors: Srushti Gaikaiwari, Smit Shah, and Keshav Shah.

    Srushti Gaikaiwari, daughter of Shishir and Sanskruti Gaikaiwari, returns for her second year as director. A December 2023 Texas A&M graduate in Bioinformatics, she’s been part of HHYC since elementary school — first as a camper, then counselor. “Camp helped me see how Hinduism fits into our American lives,” she says. “Now I get to pass that experience on.”

    Smit Shah, son of Akshay and Tejal Shah, joins as a first-time director. A May 2023 Biochemistry graduate from UT Austin, Smit brings dedication and heart to the leadership team. “After 14 years with camp, I’m proud to share what I’ve learned and help build a space where we form friendships and connect with our Hindu roots,” he says.

    Keshav Shah, son of Rajiv and Nisha Shah, is also serving his first year as director. A longtime camper and now a May 2025 graduate from the University of Houston with degrees in Accounting and MIS, he’s passionate about giving back. “Camp gave me lifelong friends and a place to learn about Hinduism — now I get to help create that for future generations.”

    Together, these three directors have worked tirelessly to make this year’s camp the best it can be. From safety protocols and menus to education planning and counselor training, they’ve poured their heart and soul into every detail.

    True seva is service done with heart — and that’s exactly what our directors embody. Their leadership ensures that every camper, counselor, and volunteer has the tools and support needed to make these five days meaningful.

    As we gear up for the week, I feel grateful to be part of something this special. HHYC isn’t just another summer camp — it ties us together and helps us grow, whether we’re singing bhajans for the first time or having thoughtful conversations guided by counselors.

    From sunrise to sunset, each day at camp is filled with moments that matter. We kick things off with Shakha at 7 a.m., followed by yoga and games like Coconut Tree and Ko to get energized. Campers then dive into thoughtful education sessions and creative arts and crafts. Each evening ends with Aarti and bhajans, where the flicker of flames and our voices in harmony create a sacred space to reflect, reconnect, and remember why we’re here.

    Our celebrated traditions — from gaga ball and Garba night to education sessions and Holi — make these five days truly unforgettable. But the lessons, friendships, and memories last long after camp ends. They stay with us as we head back to school, grow into adulthood, and continue building our future.

    As we celebrate 41 years of HHYC, I can’t wait to see how the next generation will keep the magic going.

    Shreya Thakekar is a Rising Freshman at the University of  Texas

  • Swami Mukundananda’s Houston Program July 19th-August 1st 2025

    Swami Mukundananda’s Houston Program July 19th-August 1st 2025

    A Spiritual Renaissance: Uniting Wisdom and Wellness in the Heart of Houston

    HOUSTON: In the vibrant tapestry of Houston’s interfaith and intercultural landscape, July 19th to August 1st, 2025 is poised to witness a spiritual event unparalleled—the Life Transformation  program by world-renowned spiritual leader Swami Mukundananda.

    Swami Mukundananda is a globally acknowledged Spiritual teacher, an international authority on mind management, and a best-selling author who earned his degrees from the prestigious institutions IIT Delhi and IIM Kolkata. He worked with a multinational firm for a short while before renouncing a promising career at the age of 23 to enter Sanyas (monkhood) and studied the scriptures under the tutelage of his spiritual teacher Jagadguru Shri Kripaluji Maharaj.  For four decades he has been sharing his vast knowledge through his books, lectures and discourse seminars. His steadfast positivity exudes hope, clarity and a sense of purpose to those who connect with him. He has deeply affected the lives of millions of people who have been drawn by his profound integrity, charismatic personality and his passion to serve. His lectures on social media platforms are loved and followed by millions.

    Swami Mukundananda will be visiting Houston from July 19th through August 1st, 2025. His first week program from Saturday, July 19th through Friday, July 25th will be at Sharadamba Temple, 10315 Clodine Rd, Richmond, TX 77407 from 7PM to 9PM. For the first week, the topic of Swamiji’s lecture series is Yog Sutras of Patanjali.

    The Yog Sutras of Patanjali stand as a timeless masterpiece in the realm of spirituality and philosophy. Each sutra as explained by Swami Mukundananda in his lecture series, is a treasure chest of wisdom, meticulously crafted to convey profound truths in concise and eloquent language.

    His second week program from Saturday, July 26th through Friday, August 1st will be at India House, 8888 W Belfort Ave, Houston, TX 77031 from 7PM to 9 PM.  For the second week, the topic of Swamiji’s lecture series will be the 7 Divine Laws to Awaken Your Best Self.

    Swami Mukundananda has elucidated the principles of self-transformation and personal growth in his book The 7 Divine Laws to Awaken Your Best Self. Drawing from ancient Vedic wisdom and blending it with contemporary insights, he outlines seven universal laws that serve as a practical guide to manifesting one’s highest potential. These divine laws provide a roadmap to inner harmony, purpose, and success in life

    Please mark your calendars and attend. It will be an introduction to an inspired life.

    The program is FREE and dinner prasadam will be served each day at the conclusion of the program.

    To register please visit https://www.jkyog.org/events/Houston

    Contacts : 281-630-5982 or 281-780-4877