Category: Religion

HOUSTON: The Arya Samaj Greater Houston Satsang Hall came alive with energy and pride on Sunday during the Annual Day celebration of DAV Sanskriti School (DAVSS) and the graduation ceremony of Arya Yuva Mandal (AYM). The program began with a soulful Yajna led by Acharya Surya Nanda Ji, setting a spiritual tone for the morning.

Students of all ages showcased what they had learned over the past year in a vibrant cultural program. Kindergarten children delivered heartfelt messages on respecting Mother Earth and Nature, while students from Grades 7 and 8 eloquently spoke on the Panch Maha Yajnas—the five daily duties practiced in accordance with one’s time, place, and circumstances (desh-kaal-paristhiti).

A colorful mosaic of performances followed, including Yogasanas, Indian dance, devotional music, Bhangra, and Tabla recitals, reflecting the holistic education at DAVSS. The young AYM graduates shared how the teachings of Sanatan Dharma and the values imbibed at DAVSS and AYM have empowered them to lead ethical and purposeful lives. Two alumni also spoke movingly about how their time at DAVSS and AYM continue to guide them in their personal, professional, and social lives.

Graduates received mementos, while student achievers were honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, presented by Shri Dev and Smt. Sushma Mahajan, and Shri Ashutosh and Smt. Minu Garg Ji. The evening’s events were thoughtfully curated by Acharya Bramdeo Mokoonlall.

DAVSS extends heartfelt thanks to its students, parents, teachers, volunteers, the Arya Samaj Greater Houston community, and all well-wishers for their continued support and enthusiasm. DAV Sanskriti School resumes on August 10. Registration is now open. Register online: https://davss.aryasamajhouston.org/admissions/registration

By Jawahar Malhotra

HOUSTON: The saffron flag that was the first thing installed on this 20-acre site nearly 30 years ago has been raised higher, to almost 100 feet to be visible behind the gold painted domes of the gurdwara. But on this tenth Vaisakhi Mela in the huge open space on Saturday, April 26, the masses came together at the Sikh National Center north of Beltway 8 between Gessner and Fairbanks-North Houston to inaugurate the new, much anticipated Gurdwara and have fun too.

For Sikhs, Vaisakhi has a special significance as the day in 1699 when Guru Gobind Singh laid down the foundation of the Panth Khalsa and the five K’s which are sacred tenets of the faith. But in the Punjab, it is also a harvest festival coinciding with the Spring equinox and is celebrated with much gusto, especially in villages across the Punjab and North India, with melas, dances and lots of food.

As in previous years, the completely free event was open to the public and was sponsored by the generosity of so many people who have worked hard to make the SNC a reality: Dr. Hardam S. Azad, Harjit S. Galhotra, Jitinderpal Singh, Gurbir S. Boparai, Jagmohan S. Kooner, Baljeet S. Purewal, Gurmeet S. Saini, Shamsher Singh, Gurcharan S. Dhaliwal, Tirath S. Khera, Amrik S. Banwait,  Avtar Singh, Satbir K. Cheema, Sukhpal S. Dhaliwal, Gurlal Singh, Amrit Singh, Ruben Bains, Divjyot Singh, Rinku Sandhu, Preetinder Singh, Karamjit S. Virdi, Mohan S. Grewal, Harvinder (Harry) Boparai, Parupkar Singh and Happy Singh.

An estimated 4,000 people came to the SNC site under bright, blue skies and crisp weather to the completely free event to meet and greet each other, pray at the new Gurdwara and enjoy food and games. The large concrete parking lots were full but still could accommodate the stream of cars.

The wide expanse was the site of all the fun games for the younger children, like the tug-of-war; 50 meter race, 3-legged race, sack race, spoon race and basketball. On the far side of the racing field and volleyball court, a row of spectators watched as the young men and teenagers rushed from one goal post to the other; while others cooked hot jalebis, pakoras, gol gappe, chaat, dahi bhalla and fresh sugarcane juice for a unending line of people,

Off to the other side, a carnival atmosphere took care of the whims of the younger tykes with inflatable moon walks and slides and farm animals petting zoo. And a safe distance away, stalls served cotton candy at one end and ice cream.

All this within sight of the new Gurdwara that was inaugurated over a three-day event and awards that was sponsored by the Harjit S. Galhotra family, including all afternoon and evening langars. It featured local elected officials like Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzales and Judge Manpreet Monica Singh, of Harris County Civil Court #4 among others. From the dual sweeping curved stairs leading upto the prayer hall which can accommodate 500 people on each side, there are clear views of the vast open areas beyond. The Granth Sahib is laid out on a dias with inlaid floral motifs. The architect of the Gurdwara, Mandeep Singh Kohli flew in from his studio in Jallandar, Punjab to attend the event.

A beautiful addition and a true slice of Punjab, if you could imagine it, in a corner of the Bayou City.

PEARLAND: The 7th Annual Puranava India Art & Culture Fest organized by Houston chapter of Global Organization for Divinity (G.O.D.), was held on Saturday April 19, 2025 at the Pearland Town Center. It attracted a moving crowd of about 2000 attendees of all cultural backgrounds from around the Greater Houston area and other nearby cities, through the entire day. The event was supported by a City of Pearland cultural arts grant through Visit Pearland.

Several dignitaries attended the event including the Honorable Mayor of City of Pearland Mr. Kevin Cole, the Honorable Mayor of City of Manvel Mr. Dan Davis, Mr. Prashant K. Sona HOC Consul for Culture & Commerce and Ms. Anju Mallik Consul for Community Affairs from Consulate General of India Houston, Executive Director Ms. Tracy Rohrbacher and Arts Administrator Ms. Sara Peters from Visit Pearland, Ms. Ranjana Narasimhan Community Leader and Board Member of Meenakshi Temple Society, Ms. Probha Saikia and Mr. Kalyan Saikia, community leaders from the Houston Assamese community, and many others. All the special guests had words of praise for the Puranava Culture Fest and community service of Global Organization for Divinity. The Mayor of Manvel city also presented a commemorative proclamation for Puranava to G.O.D.

The vibrant festival brought India together by showcasing performing arts from different regions of India presented by numerous cultural groups from the Greater Houston Area. The performances were presented both on stage as well as in the form of street performances during a lovely Chariot Fest when a divine chariot was pulled around the pavilion by attendees. Apart from the classical dances of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi from south India, Odissi from Odisha, and Kathak from north India, there were also numerous folk dance performances this year. These included two Assamese Bihu performances, Gujarati Garbha, Kerala Thiruvathira, Rajasthani Ghoomar, Marathi Mangala-Gauri, Bengali Baul, Karnataka Kamsale, and Tamil Nadu’s Poi-Kaal Kudhirai and Valli Kummi. Additionally, there were also three different folk percussion performances – Parai from Tamil Nadu, Chendamelam from Kerala and Dhol Tasha & Lezim from Maharashtra. A unique performance was also SIlambattam martial art from Tamil Nadu.  In between the street performances in front of the divine chariot, the chariot was pulled around the pavilion by attendees, to the chanting of the Mahamantra.

The fest also featured a special Kids Zone where children could make and take special art and crafts, learn about how the solar cycle impacts our daily routines, build temple gopurams with legos, play traditional Indian games, taste Indian candy, win raffle prizes, play in a bouncehouse, and more.

G.O.D. volunteers also offered lovely henna art and a free Photo Booth where attendees could take pictures with Indian accessories against an Indian backdrop.

During the first half of the event, about 200 children of all ages participated in youth competitions in Chess, Art, Written Quiz, Classical Music, Classical Dance, and Ethnic Costumes that were conducted from morning through the afternoon and presided over by expert judges from around the Houston area. A Puranava Harikatha contest was also conducted at Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple a week earlier. Awards for all the competitions were distributed that afternoon by the chief guests.

All day long, the festival had vendors selling ethnic clothes, accessories, beautiful handicrafts, artwork, financial and educational services, Indian mattresses, facepainting and more. Delicious Indian vegetarian street food including south and north-Indian dishes including fresh dosa, batura, and chaat made onsite,  juices including fresh sugarcane juice, and cotton candy and popcorn, was procured, prepared and served by G.O.D.’s entirely volunteer-run ‘Kicha’s Kitchen’ and was a huge hit with the attendees.

As part of the organization’s annual giving program, Love to Share Foundation America conducted two drives benefiting two local nonprofit organizations – a pet supplies drive supporting Sunnyside Street Dogs and a gift card and blankets drive supporting The Sanctuary Foster Care.

For more information, please visit our Facebook pages – GOD Houston, Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Hindu Temple, Love to Share Foundation America, Puranava 2025 event page, and our websites – www.puranava-usa.org, www.asptemple.org, www.lovetosharefoundation.org

HOUSTON: The Hindu American Foundation delighted a sold-out crowd with an evening as thought-provoking as it was entertaining at its annual Houston Fundraising Gala on Saturday, April 13th. Held at the Bayou City Event Center, the program emphasized HAF’s commitment to ensuring fair, accurate, and inclusive representation of Hindus and Hinduism in Texas public education. The event was hosted by HAF Executive Director Suhag Shukla and National Leadership Council Member Priya Pandit, with appearances from Board of Directors Member Rajiv Pandit and Texas Policy Fellow Nimai Shukla.

The evening wove together powerful storytelling, community connection, and a live-action “Whodunnit”
mystery game that kept the audience engaged and energized. It underscored how narratives can be a tool for advocacy, mirroring HAF’s own strategic work in shifting how Hindu Americans are perceived and portrayed.

The program featured an in-depth presentation outlining HAF’s priorities nationwide, including legal advocacy, curriculum reform, and media engagement. Special attention was given to the Foundation’s expanding efforts in Texas, where they have educated the Texas State Legislature regarding the most pressing issues facing the Hindu community and were instrumental in having Holi recognized for the first time in Texas. Guests also heard about recent wins and ongoing challenges, particularly the urgent need to counter anti-Hindu bias in K-12 materials and higher education, where misinformation and stereotyping remain common.

HAF’s leadership emphasized that community involvement is the key to long-term change and empowerment, and highlighted their Dharma Advocates and Dharma Ambassadors programs, which equip citizens to step into advocacy roles in their community with the support of HAF’s trainings and toolkits.

Nearly 300 attendees filled the room with enthusiasm and generosity, raising significant funding in support of HAF’s mission, both in Texas and nationwide. A raffle added to the excitement of the evening, featuring exclusive items such as tea for two at Kiran’s, an acclaimed Indian restaurant in Houston. The gala concluded with a delicious dinner from Daawat Catering, a division of Madras Pavilion, giving guests a chance to unwind and connect with fellow advocates and supporters.

HAF extends deep gratitude to local partners Hindus of Greater Houston and DISHA, for their ongoing support and to the Houston chapter team for organizing another impactful event. HAF looks forward to continuing its work in Texas and beyond to create a more informed and inclusive future for Hindu Americans.

Stay up to date with HAF’s work in education, advocacy, and community empowerment by visiting hinduamerican.org and follow us on social media: @ hinduamerican on all platforms.

PEARLAND: The free, 7^th annual Puranava India Art & Culture Fest will be held at Pearland Town Center Pavilion, on Saturday April 19 from 11 am through 6 pm. The colorful event aims to provide an experience of India’s vibrant, diverse, age-old culture which is still a living, integral part of modern India.

This unique art and culture fest will showcase classical and folk dances and music from India’s diverse regional cultures from the north, south, east, and west, through both stage and street presentations. Kids can have fun and learn at our exclusive “Kids Zone” where kids can make and take special artwork and crafts, play several traditional Indian games, take home goodies, etc. Visitors can also shop for ethnic Indian wear, jewelry, crafts at the bazaar; taste delicious, exotic Indian food and beverages from the entirely volunteer-run “Kicha’s Kitchen”; try henna art; take photos in the photo booth, and more.

A highlight of this festival is a Chariot Fest – scheduled to begin at approximately 4:30 pm – similar to what is celebrated even today in temples in India. Here everyone can pull a divine chariot, join in kirtan and chants, and watch numerous street folk and classical performances.

Youth and kids’ competitions in Chess, Art, Indian Classical Dance, Indian Classical Music, Ethnic Indian Costumes and a written Quiz will be held during the day (10 am to 3 pm). Advance registration for these needs to be done at www.puranava-usa.org.  Kids and youth of all ages and cultural backgrounds are welcome to participate in the competitions.

Conducted by nonprofit Global Organization for Divinity, the event is supported by a cultural arts grant from the City of Pearland through the Pearland Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Mayors of the cities of Pearland and Manvel, and other dignitaries from the Greater Houston area are also expected to attend the event.

As part of sister organization, Love to Share Foundation America’s annual giving program, a drive is being conducted currently to support The Sanctuary Foster Care Services (in Sugar Land and Clearlake) and Sunnyside Street Dogs in Houston. Representatives from both the organizations will receive donations collected, during the Puranava 2025 event on April 19. To support these organizations through our drives, please reach out to 281-923-4861.

“Pura” means ancient and “Nava” means new or modern. True to its name, this event, which is presented in various formats by Global Organization for Divinity in several cities and countries across the world, endeavors to do its part in bringing India’s exquisite indigenous arts to the forefront and presenting to local communities here in the USA the beauty of these traditions, many of which are still being actively practiced not only in India itself but also by people of Indian origin around the world.

More information about this year’s event, registration for the competitions, vendor registration, etc. can be found at www.puranava-usa.org. For real-time info about Puranava, visit our Facebook Event page and for more information about Global Organization for Divinity Houston and its activities, please visit our Facebook page, GOD Namadwaar Houston.

By Dr. S. Chellaiah

PEARLAND: Mahashivarathri, every year, is celebrated on the 14th day of Phalguna month when Chathurdasi falls at night and due to the alignment of celestial bodies, there is a natural flow of high energy among living beings. There are many legends behind the significance of Mahashivarathri.

One legend mentions that this is the night that Shiva married Parvathi. Another one mentions that on this day, Shiva performed the cosmic dance, Tandava, symbolizing the creation, preservation and destruction of the entire infinite universe. Some believe that on Mahashivarathri, Shiva swallowed the poison produced due to the churning of the ocean and kept it in his neck giving it a blue color and hence the name, Neelakandan.

Yet others consider that on this day, Shiva became one with Mount Kailash as an Adiyogi. Whatever be one’s belief, devotees spend the day fasting, meditating, chanting prayers and visiting Shiva temples. Some fast for 24 hours (Nirjala Virat) without eating or drinking anything and break the fast only after sunrise, the next day.

Here at The Meenakshi Temple (MTS) in Pearland, Houston, MahaShivarathri was celebrated on 25th February in a grand, divine, and sublime way. Pradosham called Mahapradosham was also celebrated on the same evening, and abhishekam for Nandi (the vahanam of Lord Shiva) and Lord Shiva were performed first, with the devotees circumambulating the temple carrying Shiva and his consort Parvathi, in a procession on a palanquin. A ankaram for Nandi that day consisted of fruit garlands, made with black, red, and pink grapes, cherry tomatoes, mandarins, oranges, lemons, guava, and apples, a special alankaram indeed, for this night. What a beautiful sight it was!

Then Shivaratri pujas began with the first of the four Kala poojas at 9 pm. For each Kalam, Shivalingam was anointed and abhishekams performed with milk, yogurt, sacred ash, rose water, honey, and Panchamirtham. After the abhishekam, Shivalingam was adorned with new Vatsaram and flower garlands of various hues and colors, imported fresh from Madurai, India. The other poojas were at 11.30 pm, 2 am and 4.30 am. Each alankaram was unique and breathtaking.

Prasadams prepared by both MTS and the devotees were distributed after each pooja. Coffee, tea and other light snacks were supplied by MTS throughout the night. The devotees recited songs from the holy texts in many languages. Though the crowd, a microcosm of India, was the largest for the first kala pooja, it was still sizable and a vibrant one even for the pooja at 4.30 am.

Dances portraying many of Shiva’s thiruvilaiyadals (leelas or playful miracles) were performed by a team of 22 people headed by Dr. Obuli Karthik. Working men and women, housewives, and moms all worked tirelessly to make the decorations, sew the costumes, choreograph, and practice to perfection. The program lasted for nearly two hours. It brought back childhood memories and emotions. Dances were performed by children of all ages from different Bharatanatyam dance schools in the area. There were also Carnatic music concerts. It was a divine and spiritual night, and the cultural program added to the grandeur.

It was a night of entertainment, edutainment, and excitement. A large bedecked Shivalingam model, a replica of Lord Annamalai of Thiruvannamalai, with colorful lights, kept near the Dwajasthambam in the outer mandapam, was the cynosure of all. It invoked the sublime and serene within our souls and became the ‘photo booth’ for most devotees.

What a feast it was to the eyes! All devotees were allowed to perform Aathmalinga Pooja through abhishekam of milk on Shivalingam kept at the center of the main hall. It is said that one attains immortality through this Pooja. Even in India, such opportunities are limited. In the holy text, Thirumanthiram, it is said that if one offers even a mere leaf but with sincerity, faith, and devotion, God accepts it with joy. So, performing this abhishekam was a privilege and exhilarating to all devotees.

The Chairman of the temple Board, Mr. Sundar Arun, in his speech, said that he was overwhelmed with the divine celebration, the increased number of devotees this year, the amazing cultural programs, the many spiritual bhajans all night, and thanked the silpis, priests, administrators and volunteers, the kitchen staff, coordinators, the executive and Board members for their commendable support and contributions.

As the first rays of Sun cleared the darkness, devotees received the Prasadams, quietly praying for their inner darkness to be cleared too, for nescience to be replaced by cognizance, the Maya by the Truth, the bonds by emancipation, and the turmoil by tranquility. All in all, the devotees left the temple with eyes, sleepy and moist with devotion, hearts filled with joy, souls enriched, and minds quieted. Was anyone tired? The answer was “No”. All those present were full of energy and excitement as they left the temple. An experience only to be experienced to savor it fully. As for me, I am eagerly looking forward to next year’s celebration of a very divine, spiritual and a fulfilling night of Shivarathri Celebration. Om Namasivaya!

By Minakshi Juneja

The Significance of Holi

Holi, often called the Festival of Colors, holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu tradition. It marks the arrival of spring, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, as well as the joy of life’s renewal. The festival is rooted in several mythological stories, one of the most popular being the story of Bhakta Prahlad and the demoness Holika. This tale celebrates the victory of devotion and righteousness over the forces of darkness and evil.

Beyond its cultural meaning, Holi reminds us to embrace our true nature, letting go of any past grudges or negativity. It encourages a fresh start, inviting us to cleanse our hearts and minds, much like how the colors during the festival represent the vibrancy and purity of life.

Chinmaya Mission Houston’s Holi Celebration

Each year, Chinmaya Mission Houston (CMH) hosts a special celebration that blends traditional rituals, spiritual teachings, and the joyful, colorful spirit of Holi. At CMH, Holi is more than just a vibrant festival of colors; it is a celebration of love and unity. Whether you are a recent or a longtime devotee, this event promises a day filled with color, spirituality, and community bonding, engaging in the fun and excitement that Holi brings, all while staying connected to the deeper spiritual meaning of the festival.

Program Highlights

• Satsang and Devotional Music: The day began on the bright Sunday of March 16 with a beautiful satsanga led by Acarya Gaurang Nanavaty focusing on the significance of Holi from a spiritual perspective. The attendees participated in bhajans, Gita chanting, and Pujya Gaurang Uncle’s spiritual discourse set the tone for the day.
• Holi Prayers and Rituals: A special puja (prayer ceremony) in the courtyard was performed, seeking the blessings of the Divine to fill the hearts of all with love, compassion, and joy. The bonfire that was lit in the Sivalaya courtyard also emphasized the importance of letting go of negative emotions and embracing harmony and peace.
• Community Feast: After the prayers, a community feast featuring traditional Holi sweets like Kaju Katli and drinks such as thandai were served, allowing everyone to come together in fellowship and enjoy the festive spirit.
• Colorful Celebration: Following the community feast, the highlight of the day was the celebration of colors outdoors at Chinmaya Prabha. Volunteers ensured that the celebration remained safe and joyful, with eco-friendly colors and a spirit of inclusivity. Friends and devotees of all ages played games, danced, and celebrated the vibrant spring that was in the air.

A Message of Unity

At Chinmaya Mission Houston, the essence of Holi was not just about playing with colors but about embracing unity while celebrating the arrival of Spring. It was a reminder that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same divine creation. The colors of Holi represent the diverse experiences of life, and when shared in harmony, they create a beautiful and meaningful mosaic of joy.

The celebration of Holi reminded us of the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and joy in our daily lives. The colorful festivities encouraged us to bond as a community, forgetting differences celebrating the boundless love that connects all.

For more information about Chinmaya Mission Houston, Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya and its activities please visit www.chinmayahouston.org, www.saumyakasi.org or call temple 281 568 1690 or Jay Deshmukh 832 541 0059 or Bharati Sutaria 281-933-0233.

Photos by Bharat Rao and Rajesh Thatte

By NAZC 2024 Team

The 18th North American Zoroastrian Congress (NAZC), held at the Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria Hotel from December 29, 2024, to January 1, 2025, brought together over 700 attendees for four transformative days of worship, learning, and fellowship. Themed “Generation Z: Propelling Zarathushti Resurgence,” this biennial gathering underscored the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future, with an impressive 42% of attendees under the age of 40. From captivating performances to thought-provoking discussions, the Congress celebrated the enduring spirit of the Zoroastrian faith while providing a platform to explore its relevance in today’s world.

A Grand Opening: Visions of Paradise

The Congress began with a spectacular opening ceremony showcasing Visions of Paradise, a theatrical production inspired by the Persian Garden (Pairidaēza). This multi-generational performance involved over 70 participants who brought the vision to life through elaborate costumes, choreographed dances, live music, and stunning visual effects.

Costumes crafted with intricate detail accentuated the performers’ movements, symbolizing the gentle flow of water and the tranquility of serene gardens. Live recitals on the flute, violin, and saxophone enriched the atmosphere, blending harmonious melodies with a visual feast of Mughal pageantry, Roman grandeur, and Spanish flamenco. These elements transported the audience across time and space, highlighting the interplay of tradition and innovation through symbolic representations of butterflies and astronauts.

The production set the tone for the Congress, inspiring attendees with a deep connection to their heritage and a forward-looking vision. Following the performance, City Council Member Letitia Plummer, At-Large 4, presented a proclamation from Houston’s Honorable Mayor John Whitmire, declaring December 29, 2024, through January 1, 2025, as Zoroastrian Days in Houston.

Keynote Moments and Youth Involvement

Legendary Bollywood icon Boman Irani delivered an engaging keynote address filled with humor, anecdotes, and heartfelt messages of resilience and faith. Irani’s impromptu songs with the Z-Band brought warmth and charm to the evening, making his address unforgettable. Youth keynote speaker Sanaya Master continued the theme, passionately addressing the critical role of Generation Z in ensuring the Zarathushti resurgence.

The involvement of the Young Adults of the Zoroastrian Association of Houston (YAYA) was a cornerstone of the Congress. YAYA organized engaging activities, including a silent disco and Bollywood dance workshops, fostering camaraderie among younger attendees while deepening their connection to Zoroastrian heritage. Youth also played crucial roles as volunteers, emcees, and performers, managing event logistics, energizing crowds with dance demos, and hosting interactive sessions on Zoroastrian ceremonies.

Religious Connections and Dynamic Panels

The opening ceremony began with priests from across North America reciting the Homage unto the Fire prayer created a spiritual ambiance.

The Congress, deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism, offered a meaningful exploration of faith, tradition, and contemporary relevance. The opening ceremony set a spiritual tone with priests from across North America reciting the Homage unto the Fire prayer in full regalia. Sessions throughout the event delved into religious nuances, sparking debates on generational perspectives and addressing modern challenges.

Dynamic speakers and panels tackled a wide range of topics, from the diaspora’s cultural heritage and historical significance to technology and sustainability. Notable sessions, such as Empowering Zarathushti Communities with AI, Initiating Athravans and Consecrating Atash Kadehs in North America, and Sustainable Philanthropy, offered actionable insights for the community’s growth. A TED-style session, Make Your Voices Heard, added a personal touch as speakers shared topics close to their hearts.

A dedicated Tween-Teen program engaged younger participants with interactive activities, while exhibits displayed Zoroastrian culture through religious artifacts, traditional clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and literature, weaving a vibrant tapestry of the community’s identity.

Culinary Connections

Food played a central role in bringing attendees together. A medley of cuisines—from Cajun and Persian to Indian and Mexican—satisfied every palate. Traditional Zoroastrian favorites, like batasas, khatais, and the iconic Honey Bell cakes flown in from India, added a nostalgic touch, while diverse desserts became the icing on the cake. The NAZC2024 Committee extended heartfelt gratitude to the generous food sponsors who made these experiences possible.

Evening Festivities and Entertainment

Evening events, like Denim & Diamonds Nite, offered a blend of tradition and modernity. Highlights included The Good, The Bad, and The D’Ugly, a musical comedy skit, and a fashion show by Ashdeen showcasing Zoroastrian motifs with Western flair. From cowboy boots to fringed jackets adorned with Zoroastrian symbols, the runway was a vibrant display of creativity and innovation.

Performances like Pestonji Pakrai Giya a comedy play depicting a Parsi household and a comedy of errors and a New Year’s Eve magic show added levity, while DJ Gary kept attendees dancing well into the night.

Logistics and Planning Excellence

Organizing such an event required meticulous planning. From pre-congress tours of Houston landmarks like NASA, Port of Houston and the Museum of Fine Arts to seamless accommodations and themed banquets, every detail reflected the committee’s dedication. Transporting attendees to the Bhandara Atash Kadeh for the New Year’s Day prayer service was a logistical marvel that underscored the event’s focus on community and spirituality.

A Memorable Conclusion

The Congress culminated with a moving New Year’s Day prayer led by Vada Dasturji Khurshed Dastoor and a torch-passing ceremony to Sacramento, the host city for the 2028 Congress. A midnight celebration welcomed 2025, marking the conclusion of a vibrant and meaningful event.

The 18th NAZC was more than a gathering; it was a celebration of faith, fellowship, and growth. It inspired attendees to honor their heritage while embracing the future, ensuring the Zoroastrian community thrives for generations to come.

 

By Kapil Sharma

HOUSTON — October 26, 2024 — The Shri Sita Ram Foundation, USA hosted a celebration for Houston’s community with the 13th International Diwali-Dussehra Festival at the Fort Bend Epicenter in Rosenberg, Texas. An estimated crowd of 12,000 joined the event filled with cultural entertainment, delicious food, stunning dance performances, and a spectacular fireworks finale.

Diwali, or the “Festival of Lights,” is one of India’s most significant cultural events, celebrating the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Traditional activities include food, prayer, gifts, and fireworks, with homes adorned in lamps and rangolis—floor decorations symbolizing prosperity.

“Diwali is more than just a festival for us,” said Dr. Arun Varma, founder of the Shri Sita Ram Foundation. “It embodies ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ or ‘the world is one family.’ We welcome everyone to join us and celebrate our shared humanity, regardless of background or belief.”

This year’s festival emphasized global unity with flags from all 200 nations displayed, alongside active participation not only from the Hindu community, but also from Jewish, Sikh, and Christian communities. Special guests included over 15 Consuls General from Houston and the who’s who of Indian-American community. Spiritual leaders Baba Satyanarayana Maurya and Swami Anantacharya ji traveled specially from India, and inspired the audience with a message of faith and devotion.

The festival this year also featured an exact replica of the Ram Lalla deity from Ayodhya, clothed in garments once worn by the original deity, which captivated devotees throughout the day. Families enjoyed a variety of entertainment, from Kids’ Orchestra, a Kids’ Talent Show, captivating dances and a Ram Leela, to a grand parade with over 60 cultural and social floats, a laser show, and child-friendly activities like face painting, choo choo train, moonwalks, and a magic show. Booths selling handicrafts, art, and traditional Indian food gave the grounds a true Diwali Mela feel. The evening culminated with a symbolic Ravan, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad effigy burning, representing Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king, a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the Texas sky, followed by a garba dance into the night, leaving attendees with memories of joy, unity, and cultural pride.

About Shri Sita Ram Foundation:

Since its founding in 2010, the Shri Sita Ram Foundation has worked tirelessly to promote Indian culture, values, and charitable work in the United States. Their Diwali-Dussehra Festival has grown into one of the largest in the U.S., attracting over 10,000 attendees annually. Through events like this, the foundation aims to foster community spirit while contributing to various charitable causes, including scholarships and aid for underprivileged communities.

The 13th International Diwali-Dussehra Festival promises to be a cultural extravaganza that celebrates the essence of Diwali. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the Houston community in lighting up the night with joy, hope, and togetherness.

For more information, visit www.shrisitaram.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter @ShriSitaRam.