Indo American News

Category: Education

  • Empowering Young Researchers: Bridging the Mentorship Gap through Research Made Accessible (RMA)

    Empowering Young Researchers: Bridging the Mentorship Gap through Research Made Accessible (RMA)

    HOUSTON: High school students, especially those from underserved communities, often face significant barriers to accessing academic research opportunities. Lacking mentorship and proper guidance, these eager learners struggle to find the support needed to navigate the complexities of research. This creates a gap between students with access to academic resources and those without, limiting the potential for innovation and growth.

    In 2022, five visionary students from Jordan High School—Ishaan Hemrajani, Fahim Jahangir, Niam Jasani, Mihir Gannavarapu, and Sanjay Sreedhar—founded Research Made Accessible (RMA) to tackle the gap in research mentorship, with Sudhanva Vasista serving as Chief of Operations to help drive the initiative forward. RMA connects students from underserved areas with expert mentors from top-tier institutions like Princeton, Stanford, MIT, and Baylor College of Medicine. RMA’s mission is powerful: to provide personalized mentorship in fields such as gene therapy, artificial intelligence, and evolutionary medicine. This hands-on approach allows students to dive into advanced research topics while learning directly from some of the brightest minds.

    RMA’s structure maximizes impact. The organization matches students with mentors based on shared research interests, ensuring tailored guidance throughout their research journeys. From selecting topics to critically reviewing academic literature, RMA’s mentors provide comprehensive support. With over 300 active mentors spanning 12 countries, RMA has empowered more than 2,000 students, creating a ripple effect of academic growth, curiosity, and innovation.

    The success stories of RMA participants highlight the transformative power of the program. For example, Emilian Lipnevich was paired with Professor Giasseti from Baylor University, whose research in evolutionary medicine inspired him to explore bioinformatics and gene-editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9. Professor Giasseti’s journey from a veterinary school in rural Brazil to academia served as an inspiration for Emilian, fueling his research ambitions. Similarly, Vanshika Burman, another RMA student, developed a deep interest in gene therapy and AI under the mentorship of an RMA advisor. Through her literature review, Vanshika learned about advanced topics and contributed to ongoing scientific discussions, demonstrating how RMA students actively participate in the broader academic community.

    Beyond one-on-one mentorship, RMA hosts research seminars led by distinguished experts. In August 2023, Dr. Ashok Kumar, a biomedical scientist with over 43 years of experience, delivered an enlightening talk on his career in biomedical research. His seminar encouraged students to think critically about their future in research and the broader scientific community. These seminars allow students to learn directly from seasoned professionals, enriching their research experience.

    As RMA continues to expand, it remains dedicated to addressing the persistent challenges students face in accessing research mentorship, particularly in underserved areas. With new projects in Massachusetts, Texas, and California, RMA ensures that students nationwide have access to quality mentorship and academic guidance.

    Through its commitment to equality in research opportunities, RMA is not just supporting students—it’s reshaping the future of academic research by empowering the next generation of innovators to drive meaningful advancements.

  • Arya Samaj of Houston Celebrates I-Day, Prepares for Start of DAV Schools

    Arya Samaj of Houston Celebrates I-Day, Prepares for Start of DAV Schools

    India Independence Day Celebrations

    Sunday August 18: Students, parents, teachers and volunteers of DAV Sanskriti School (DAVSS) along with members of Arya Samaj Greater Houston assembled for the flag hoisting ceremony.

    DAVSS runs as Sunday school from 9:45 a.m. to noon, during which students learn Naitik Shiksha  (living values of Sanatan Dharma), Hindi (conversational & written), and one elective among Yoga, Tabla, Music, Dance, Vedic Math, Cultural Heritage. Classes end with Arti and Shaanti Paatha followed by prasad (lunch).

    Online Registration: https://davss.aryasamajhouston.org/admissions/registration

    More info: davss.org/admissions

    Contact: Acharya Bramdeo (832)-219-5079

    Email: davss@aryasamajhouston.org

    Start of 2024-25 Academic Year at DAV Montessori & Elementary School

    Thursday August 22: Students and teachers participated in havan led by Acharya Bramdeo, seeking divine blessings for a great year of learning. It was highly charged spiritual moments with students reciting the Veda mantras.  Besides the regular curriculum, students benefit from Yoga classes, and stay connected to the rich Indian cultural heritage by learning mantras, shlokas with their meanings, the living values of Sanatan Dharma and participate in celebrating American and Indian festivals.

    Now Enrolling for 2024-25 (PreK – Grade 5)

    More info: davhouston.org

    Phone: (281) 759-3286

    Email: director@davhouston.org

    Address: 14375 Schiller Rd, Houston, TX 77082

  • Vadtal Dham Shri Swaminarayan School Takes Students to Eternal Gandhi Museum

    Vadtal Dham Shri Swaminarayan School Takes Students to Eternal Gandhi Museum

    HOUSTON: On Saturday, August 10, 2024, thirty-eight enthusiastic students from the Vadtal Dham Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple School embarked on an educational and inspirational visit to Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston. This enriching experience was part of the school’s ongoing commitment
    to broadening the horizons of its students through cultural and historical education.

    The visit to the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston, EGMH, provided the students with a unique opportunity to engage with the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, a key figure in promoting peace and nonviolence. Through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, students gained a deeper understanding of Gandhi’s pivotal role in the Indian independence movement and his enduring influence on global human rights.

    The field trip included guided tours, educational videos, and reflective discussions to help students connect with the principles and messages conveyed through Gandhi’s life and work. This hands-on learning experience complemented the school’s curriculum and encouraged students to think critically about the impact of historical figures on contemporary society.

    Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is a modern, state of the art, world class museum. It is the only museum in Americas dedicated to preserve and promote Mahatma Gandhi’s greatest legacy, nonviolent conflict resolution. To learn more about the museum and organize a field trip for your organization please visit www.egmh.org

  • DAV SANSKRITI SCHOOL: Yajnopaveeta & Vedarambha Sanskars

    DAV SANSKRITI SCHOOL: Yajnopaveeta & Vedarambha Sanskars

    DAV Sanskriti School children performing Vedarambha Samskara Havan with Acharya Surya, Acharya Bramdeo

    By Acharya Bramdeo

    HOUSTON: Students, parents, teachers, volunteers, well-wishers were convened to the Yajnopaveeta & Vedarambha Sanskars of students as part of the induction ceremony into formal studies on the living values of Sanatan Dharma. It was also time to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the start of the DAV Sanskriti School (DAVSS) in USA. This ceremony is now a regular grand way of starting the new academic year at DAVSS. After conferring the Angavastra, Tilak and Yajnopaveeta (Janeu) to students, the kids offered the Samidhaas (woodsticks) to the holy fire in the same way during the Havan led by Acharya Surya Nanda, as was done in the olden times in Gurukuls.

    DAVSS childen & Teachers performing Vedarambha Samskara Havan

    Acharya Bramdeo, Acharya and Director of Studies at DAVSS emphasized on the need for regularity in studies with an analogy: A father had asked his son to fill an old, soiled basket with water. After trying some 10-15 times, the son was bored and told his father that it was a wate of time as he is just failing the task The father requested the son to take a close look at the basket, and the latter noticed that it was now shining clean, the dirt had been washed.

    That’s what the two plus hours weekly connect to Sanatan Dharma will do in the life of the kids…make the life balance sheet of the student shine bright with clarity of mind about the oldest ancestral cultural heritage. Parents were also invited to discuss with their kids about the learning at DAVSS. That will enthuse in them the eagerness to stand for and stand by for Sanatan Dharma in late life and realize the motto of “Krinvanto VishvamAryam”, that is ‘make the world noble.’

    Subjects taught at DAVSS: Dharma Shiksha, Hindi (conversation & written), Havan, Veda mantras & Shlokas (with meaning), Dance, Music, Yoga, Vedic Maths, Crafts, Arts, Bhangra, Heritage & Culture.

    Admissions now open: davss.org/admissions

    Contact: Acharya Bramdeo (832) 219-5079

    Email: davss@aryasamajhouston.org

  • HC4A 12th Annual School Supplies Packing Event in Austin

    HC4A 12th Annual School Supplies Packing Event in Austin

    AUSTIN: Central Texas schools struggle with funding, often leaving kids without essential supplies for success. School supplies are crucial not just for education, but for fostering equality and organization among students. Each
    year, HC4A steps up to meet this need, ensuring thousands of Texas school children start their school year right. However, with new families continuously facing hardships, the demand for supplies remains persistent.

    HC4A and Shalom Austin, with the support of the City of Austin’s “We All Belong” initiative, are excited to announce the 12th Annual School Supplies Packing Event. This initiative aims to foster community unity and provide critical resources. Thanks to the success of our “Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt” (BMBB) fundraiser this April, where HC4A raised over $40,000, and the “We All Belong” grant, we can now provide school supplies for more than 1,500 homeless students.

    BMBB also promoted multiculturaltogetherness in a spirit of unity and mutual support to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and connected. The lineup of speakers included Alison Alter, Council Member; Rabbi Daniel Septimus, CEO ofShalom Austin; Dr. Robert Sormani, Superintendent, Manor ISD and Will Williams, First Sergeant, USA (Ret) & Founder, Share the Will Foundation.

    Most importantly, the guests heard directly from an immigrant family, beneficiaries of the school supplies drive, for a firsthand account of how your support makes a difference. Seeing Jewish, Hindu, and African American communities share the stage at the event was a rare and inspiring moment of unity, showcasing how diverse cultures
    can come together for a common purpose. This collaboration highlights the importance of inclusivity and mutual support, demonstrating that regardless of our backgrounds, we all have a role to play in supporting education for low-income children. It’s a powerful reminder that when we unite for the greater good, we can break down barriers and create lasting positive impacts in our communities.

    This year, we set out with a lofty goal – to support over 1,600 children with essential school supplies at a School Supplies Packing Event on August 4 at the Dell Jewish Community Center – Shalom; 7300 Hart Lane in Austin. It is an all-day event with 2–3-hour volunteerslots, depending on the task selected.

    Since 2010, HC4A has supported Independent School Districts (ISDs) in Austin, Manor, Bastrop, Del Valle, and Houston. Additionally, HC4A has partnered with and supported the following organizations: African American
    Youth Harvest Foundation; Veterans through Share the Will and Hero’s Night Out; Asian Family Support Service; Dove Springs Proud; Refugee Services of Texas; Greater Love Baptist Church and Libraries with Books.

    For more information, contact Pankil Matalia at pankil@hc4a. org or call 512-689-4811.

  • Counselors Prepare for 40th Anniversary Hindu Youth Camp

    Counselors Prepare for 40th Anniversary Hindu Youth Camp

    Bottom Row Left to Right: Keshav Shah, Shakti Dash, Trisha Gurnani, Maya Neti, Shraddha Guha, Maya Harpavat, Roshni Parikh, Raina Patel, Krupa Rathi, Radhika Patwardhan, Eesha Patel, Medha Koniki, Simone Alphonse. Middle Row Left to Right: Rishabh Ashar, Ronil Shah, Suhani Shah, Aesha Shah, Meera Borle, Anuhya Juturi, Harshada Krishnakumar, Reya Patel, Smeet Parekh, Aman Patel, Nitika Veludandi, Anuja Pendse, Prisha Menon, Hirni Bhuta, Pooja Shah, Pooja Patel, Hemangi Swaroop, Siddhi Bavare, Srushti Gaikaiwari. Back Row: Parth Dargan, Ishan Shah, Shaan Parekh, Hemish Shah, Abhishek Pratap, Ansh Bhandari, Rahil Dalal, Arch Shah, Anish Havalimane, Ari Bhatt, Ronak Mehta, Aditya Meenakshisundaram, Anunay Dixit, Saahas Ganesh, Kaushik Kallur, Rithvik Edupugandi, Rahil Choksey, Manav Gandhi, Arnav Mehta, Rishabh Raaj, Pratham Rathi

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    By Maya Harpavat and Nitika Veludandi

    HOUSTON: This year marks the 40th Anniversary of HHYC (Hindu Heritage Youth Camp), a week-long summer camp led by young adults around the Houston area. HHYC, affectionately known as “the best 5 days of the year” is unique in how it’s able to bring together staples of American summer camp like dodgeball and swimming with something that’s much harder to find – an opportunity to learn about Hinduism surrounded by fellow Hindu Americans eager to immerse themselves in their faith.

    This year’s directors for HHYC 2024 are Srushti Gaikaiwari and Parth Dargan. Srushti is the daughter of Sanskruti and Shishir Gaikaiwari. Parth Dargan is the son of Simmi and Rajesh Dargan.

    Ever since the Covid epidemic, HHYC has struggled to find a host location and has had had to switch sites every year, an activity that was grueling on campers and counselors like. While 40 years is remarkable on its own, this year is especially significant for the Hindu American community as it will take place at Texas Hindu Campsite in Columbus, Texas, the new forever home for HHYC.  The counselors have been spending their summer training on how to mark this special milestone for themselves and their campers. From brainstorming how their new space allows them to expand their schedule to planning arts and crafts projects that will help campers leave their imprint on their new forever camp home.

    While much of the brainstorming has involved owning and adapting long standing summer camp activities, the counselors will make camp particularly special for their campers by creating educations that explore and edify the participants about Hinduism. With their own experience as Hindus growing up in America, they are uniquely positioned to kindle a love and understanding of their faith together with their campers. They find ways to make the educations engaging- including games and videos to help campers understand the core principles being present. Some of the educations that counselors are planning this year include Hindu Pilgrimage Sites, Ayurveda, and the Chiranjeevi

    Counselors are led by camp directors, who are former campers and counselors themselves. This year’s directors for HHYC 2024 are Parth Dargan and Srushti Gaikaiwari.

    Parth Dargan is the son of Simmi and Rajesh Dargan, and is a recent graduate of The University of Texas at Austin. He is currently working as a data engineer at ExxonMobil. He went to camp for five years as a camper, and one of his favorite memories was the mango eating competition. As a returning director, he  is most excited about hosting everyone at the new Texas Hindu Campsite!

    Srushti Gaikaiwari is the daughter of Sanskruti and Shishir Gaikaiwari. She graduated from Texas A&M and is starting her masters. She’s been going to camp as a camper since elementary school and has been a counselor for four years. “I want to be able to cultivate more of the experience I had as a camper. For me and so many kids, camp was a way to see Hinduism adapted to the lifestyle we see in America and being able to help give that experience to other kids was something I’d love to pass on,” she says. One of her favorite memories is cheering people on at the talent show, and she’s excited to see a different side of camp as a first-time director this year!

    It’s not just the counselors and directors that are eagerly awaiting camp, the campers are right there with them. “My favorite camp memory was during the bonfire on one of the last nights of camp- I remember everyone taking turns singing karaoke, and I had so much fun with my friends,” says Naina Mehra, who has been a camper for many years now originally started to go to camp because her mom was a camper and counselor before her.

    Her mom, Niharika, remembers, “When I was a camper at my very first camp, I remember my counselor. She was nurturing and smart and taught us such wonderful things about our culture and religion. When it was my turn to be a counselor, I knew I wanted to impart that same sentiment to my campers as I had felt so many years ago. And now my own kids are campers, having the same kinds of experiences I did, and showing interest in being counselors themselves. Talk about coming full circle!”

    HHYC is impactful due to its ability to not only interact across multiple generations of Hindu-American youth but also because of how it is able to empower youth through their shared faith. HHYC is only possible due to the support it receives from the local businesses and organizations, such as Hindus of Greater Houston, which is the banner organization HHYC runs under, as well as the numerous volunteers who help out in numerous roles, whether it be as assistant chefs or camp doctors!

    Lastly, HHYC is thankful to Texas Hindu Campsite for offering a place to put down roots and continue to grow, alongside Texas Hindu Campsite. Texas Hindu Campsite was a far-fetched dream that became possible due to the tremendous generosity of the community, but more support is still needed to help make it the best version of itself for the Hindu population of Texas. If you are interested in supporting this valuable cause, please go to https://www.texashinducampsite.org/ for ways to contribute.

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    This article was written by Maya Harpavat and Nitika Veludandi. Maya is a second-time counselor after being a camper for many years, and will be a junior at Rice University in the fall. Nitika is a third-time counselor and will be a junior at Texas A&M in the fall.

     

  • 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) Celebrations in Houston

    10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) Celebrations in Houston

    Farida Meguid teaching Yoga at Discovery Green.

    By Thara Narasimhan

    HOUSTON: One of the most significant events blending with summer solstice, the longest day of the year is the International Day of Yoga. (IDY) Yoga invites people from around the world to come together in their communities for yoga sessions.. IDY aims to raise awareness leading to a stress-free life, tranquility of a calm mind and the vitality of a strong body.  This year marks the 10th year of the IDY event collectively connecting many of our Yoga enthusiasts, Temples and Organizations.

    Hindus of Greater Houston aim is to endorse and promote this healthy initiative, as the Hon’ble PM of India, Shri Narendra Modi’s relentless efforts, June 21 was declared as the International Yoga Day since 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly. The event always has always been a partnership with the Consulate General of India, Houston. HGH has been promoting IDY from the day of its inception.

    Yajat Bhargav, youth intern HGH, goes back to trace history to 2015 our first grand event, “We had one big event at George Brown convention center 3500 people attended this event.” The Yoga Day became very popular in Houston, that it attracts many ethnically diverse participants all through the years.

    In 2024 over 30 events have been organized.. This also includes 7 outdoor events. For first time City of Fulshear has organized successful event on June 21st.

    There are over 2500 yoga teachers in the greater Houston area. This year Svyasa and  HGH will honor and recognize a large group of  Yoga teachers for first time. HGH will recognize and give awards to 12 yoga teachers who have done outstanding work. The last time we gave such awards at the IDY 2015.

    Group photo at IDY celebration at Discovery Green on June 21.

     Hindus of Greater Houston jointly with SVYSA will hold an event on June 30th at VPSS Haveli

    Three practicing Yogi’s will share their experience of how Yoga has helped in their life. As a group all attendees can join in a brief Meditation session by Mark Ram . Light Vegetarian snacks will be served.  Robert Boustony has been teaching yoga for over 50 years.  He will give brief History of Yoga in Houston.  Hindu Swayam Sevak  Sangh youth will demonstrate  Yoga Postures.

     We will have Yoga Asana demonstrations by 24 participants with age ranging from 6 to 82 years. One of the goals to have listing of all the Yoga teachers and studios in Houston for future reference. SVYASA Houston has played a crucial role in training and mentoring hundreds of yoga teachers with commitment and under the leadership of Vishwarup Nanjundappa and his team of dedicated faculty members.

    Partnering organizations  are  Syasa, Hindus of Greater Houston, Union is Creation, VPSS, India House, IMAGH, ICC , AOL, Isha foundation . More information visit hindusofhouston.org

     

  • SPD: Smartphone Dependency

    SPD: Smartphone Dependency

    By Bhupinder Singh

    SPD is not a common acronym but at the rate at which we all are becoming dependent on our phones, this name should become a common acronym in future. The reason for the phenomenal growth of smartphones and making us dependent on them are its convenience, great camera features/functions, easy applications’ installations, and more importantly, it can do most of the computer functions on the go. The truth about smartphone dependency is that people are not addicted to their smartphone, they are actually addicted to the information, entertainment, and personal connections it delivers 24 x 7. The sheer exponential growth in the number of smartphones and our dependency on them has given rise to serious concerns about their deleterious effects on health.

    The dependency on smartphones can be observed very easily. When someone comes to visit you in your house or in the workplace, the very first question they ask is what the password for your Wi-Fi is so that they can stay connected. The exchange of pleasantries and hospitality of the visitor takes a back seat. Another way smartphone dependence can be gauged is when we reach the flight gate at the airport. If there is plenty of time before the flight, one can see almost all the passenger’s eyes are looking on their smartphone’s screen or making a phone call. Even the boarding passes for the flights are on the phone. Once you board the flight you can see that the scenario of the passengers glued to their phones has just slightly changed. The changes are some of them are now trying to sleep or are asleep, plus some others may have taken out another device as laptop/tablet. Even the inflight entertainment is being offered by the airlines on your personal devices and TV monitor behind the seat headrest are fast disappearing.

    This is the broad picture of the adults in society, who did not grow up with smartphones, as those came later. Now let us look at the picture of toddlers, kids, school/college students, who are growing up with smartphones. We can see today that even one year olds are holding smartphones in their hands. In fact, phones have become the new baby sitters. Slightly older kids demand smartphones when they are eating, getting hair combed, getting their nails clipped or just to calm down. I am not going to talk about watching their favorite shows as Peppa Pig, Ninjago, Barbie etc. It has become an essential distraction, a carrot to be dangled to the kids and a bargaining tool as well. Now if we look at the picture of students with smartphones we can see they have become so dependent on their phones that they are not willing to forego their phones even when the teachers require that phones be surrendered so that teaching can take place. The kids are deeply lost in their phones to shift their attention to the teacher. They have come to believe that if they did not respond back to text messages the friends sending they will assume that they are angry at them. There is a sort of peer pressure for responding right away. Smartphones with their social media apps as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok, plus chat and shopping apps are sapping kids’ motivation to learn. The apps are designed to entice people to come to their page then to motivate them to stay longer there, making them additive in nature. The websites are also exposing the kids to adult pornographic content with hardly any oversight or policing. The famous quote by Charlton Heston about guns can be equally applied to phones today. The quote as modified is as:

    “I’ll give you my smartphone when you pry (or take) it from my cold, dead hands.”

    Imagine the plight of teachers, educators and professors who feel drained and at a loss to motivate youngsters. Imagine having to compete with smartphones for attention, and phones are outright winners all the time. In desperation some have decided to resign and try other options, just not to have to deal with the frustrations it brings about. In the surveys, one in five rated themselves as totally dependent on their phone; about half agreed that they are overly dependent. More females than males reported feeling safer with their phone than without it. More than half of the freshmen reported that they use their phone as a way of escaping from problems or relieving a bad mood. Students overwhelmingly disagreed that they have a hard time concentrating due to their phone use. The educators are at the opposite end of the spectrum. Teachers are feeling that smartphone culture is bringing about lack of discipline in classrooms and respect for teachers. Research by Twenge and others have found that teenagers’ media use roughly doubled between 2006 and 2016 across gender, race, and class. In competition against the smartphone, the book, the idea of reading, lost significant ground. By 2016, just 16 percent of 12th-grade students read a book or magazine daily. As recently as 1995, 41 percent did. Meanwhile, social media consumption was on the rise. By 2016, about three-quarters of teenagers reported using social media almost every day.

    The educators are taking notes and stopping smartphone usage in classrooms. In 2020, the National Center for Education Statistics reported that 77 percent of U.S. schools had moved to prohibit cellphones for nonacademic purposes. In September 2018, French lawmakers outlawed cellphone use for schoolchildren under the age of 15. In China, phones were banned country-wide for schoolchildren last year. As time goes by we will be seeing more measures along those lines.

    Now some research has been carried out on the long term impact of SPD, and it appears to be associated with increased anxiety. Benchmark standards for smartphone use might help prevent deleterious health effects. But building consensus and getting the consumer’s buy in will be a challenge, as people will continue to go to great lengths to connect with others. Smartphones provide a portable, instant way to stay informed, entertained, and connected. In today’s smartphone world we have become addicted to information and its continuous updates. It is time that we, like the addicts become aware of the first step in the recovery process – Addiction. That step begins with a recognition that we have a problem. Then we will have to come out with pragmatic, and workable ideas for its implementation. Otherwise, this SPD will become a monster to devour the users rendering them to become redundant, unproductive, or less productive economic assets.

    References:

    1. Lee, K. E., Kim, S. H., Jang. J. Y. Dependency on Smartphone Use and its Association with Anxiety in Korea. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/003335491613100307
    2. Harun, Amran, et al. Smartphone Dependency and Its Impact on Purchase Behavior. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283880093_Smartphone_Dependency_and_Its_Impact_on_Purchase_Behavior
    3. Lemov, Doug. Take Away Their Cellphones. https://www.educationnext.org/take-away-their-cellphones-rewire-schools-belonging-achievement/
    4. Lamb, Anna. Do phones belong in schools? ttps://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/03/experts-see-pros-and-cons-to-allowing-cellphones-in-class/

     

  • Southwestern National Bank Selects 19th Consecutive Year Scholars

    Southwestern National Bank Selects 19th Consecutive Year Scholars

    HOUSTON: Southwestern National Bank has selected its 19th consecutive year Scholars.  This year, the bank expanded the number of scholarship recipients from five to six to broaden the opportunities for deserving students and impact another individual’s life positively by providing them with resources and support to pursue their educational goals. Each winner will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to support their respective college educations.
    The selection process for these scholarships considered various factors, including academic excellence, participation in extra-curricular activities, community service, and financial needs. Their scholars have demonstrated exceptional dedication and determination throughout their high school years.
    Six of the Scholarship Recipients winners are:
    Amanda Liu – William P. Clements High School
    Avery Nongri – Obra D. Tompkins High School
    Pia Saha  – Stephen F. Austin High School
    Sowon Park – Elkins High School
    Venness Tang – Elkins High School
    Adelaide Clemence – William P. Clements HS

    Adelaide Clemence
    Avery Nongri

     

    Sowon Park
    Pia Saha
    Vaness Tang
    Amanda Liu

    Southwestern National Bank has a long-standing history of service to local communities and is committed to fostering academic excellence and inclusivity by providing funds to students who exhibit the same commitment. Applications were accepted from students in Houston, Austin, and Dallas areas.

     

  • DAV Montessori & Elementary School Celebrates Annual Day & Class of 2024

    DAV Montessori & Elementary School Celebrates Annual Day & Class of 2024

    DAV graduating class of 2024 with Principal Arti Khanna and Chief Guests Kiran and Ramesh Bhutada (center)

    HOUSTON: Students, parents, teachers, and volunteers of DAV Montessori & Elementary School (DAVMES), and members and well-wishers of Arya Samaj Greater Houston (ASGH) met to celebrate a year of learning. It was also time to celebrate the Class of 2024 (Grade 5 students, now moving to Middle School).

    The graduating students along with their parents were the Yajmāns of the day, performing Havan under the guidance of Acharya Surya Nanda Ji, followed by a mosaic program blending spirituality and entertainment. Grade 2, 3 & 4 students enchanted the audience with the recitation of the mantras Shiva Sankalpa Sukta from the YajurVeda under the mentorship of Acharya Bramdeo Ji.

    DAV teachers and staff with Acharya Suryakumar Nanda and Acharya Bramddeo (center)

    Students presented some of the aspects learnt at school, namely dance, yoga, bhajans and skits on the need to care for the environment, the achievements of ISRO and Chandrayan III.

    The Class of 2024 enlivened the program imitating their teachers. In their farewell addresses, the graduating students expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the teachers and admin personnel of the school as well as their parents. They all cherish the unique connect to the rich Indian cultural heritage, language and living values that would serve them a lifetime that DAVMES provided them. We wish them a bright future ahead.

     

    Thanks to the members of Arya Samaj Greater Houston who laid the foundations (seed) of the DAV Montessori & Elementary School, which now stands as a tall tree with a beautiful crown and flowers.

    A big bravo to all students and parents, teachers, and admin personnel for another year of excellence: Gold and other ribbons at the Rodeo Art competition, Great Champions at the Zane-Bloser National Handwriting Competition and the Hattrick at the PSIA State Championship.

    After shanti pātha, all guests joined for prasad (lunch).

    Now Enrolling for 2024-25 (PreK – Grade 5): https://www.davhouston.org/apply

    To visit school, email: director@davhouston.org

    Address: 14375 Schiller Rd, Houston, TX 77082

     

  • Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) Celebrates Graduation

    Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) Celebrates Graduation

    2024 YLDP graduates with CG Manjunath

    HOUSTON: The Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) of Houston, a non-profit organization established in 2007 for Indo-American youth, recently held its graduation ceremony. The organization offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes classroom sessions, service projects, volunteering, networking events, meant to provide students with real-world industry experiences and opportunities.

    Top Student Award winners with CG Manjunath

    The ceremony commenced with an encouraging message from the Chairman and Vice Chairman, who provided profound insights to the students: “Our journey is defined not by the obstacles we encounter, but by the path we choose to navigate them.”

     Following this, the President gave a brief overview of the year’s YLDP activities, including class sessions, service and volunteering projects, and timely submission of essays. This year’s class comprised 11th and 12th-grade students from 17 different high schools across the Greater Houston area. Many students were recognized with special awards and accolades.

     YLDP Houston also had the great honor of hosting the esteemed Chief Guest, D.C. Manjunath, the Consular General of Houston. The Chief Guest shared his leadership journey and explained the connection between philosophy and leadership. His presence and insightful words provided great motivation to the students, parents, and volunteers present. YLDP has equipped the students with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate college and the real world. As they embark on their new journey, they are encouraged to keep their eyes on the horizon and remain committed to their aspirations to serve their community. The future holds endless possibilities for them to achieve and cherish.

    YLDP Board during 2024

    Graduation director facilitated the award ceremony by explaining the graduation criteria like completing all the sessions, service/volunteering projects, submitting essays on time, students were required to prepare leadership topic and lead a group presentation.  She also explained the method of recognizing best students of the year award and selected students whose articles were selected as best essays to publish in local newspapers.

     After the award ceremony, students presented their favorite sessions of the year and their key learning moments. They shared feedback for the continuous improvement of YLDP Houston. These students are also committed to staying connected through the YLDP Alumni network. We wish them all the very best in their future endeavors and look forward to seeing the incredible things they accomplish.

    Presentation of a momento to CG Manjunath.
  • Hat trick for DAV Montessori & Elementary School

    Hat trick for DAV Montessori & Elementary School

    By Arti Khanna

    HOUSTON: DAVMES celebrates the exceptional winners who clinched the PSIA State Championship trophy for the Elementary division …third year in a row! May 9: The air was filled with excitement as Doug Ray delivered the trophy to the school.

    14 students participated, and DAVMES team triumphed with an astounding 9 first-place medals, 4 second-place medals, 3 third-place medals, 3 fourth-place medals, and 1 sixth-place medal.

    This remarkable achievement is a testimony to the DAVMES dedicated teachers and hardworking students. To know more about DAVMS, please visit website: http://davmschool.com/

  • Texas A&M Professor Reddy Appointed Editor of Experimental Neurology

    Texas A&M Professor Reddy Appointed Editor of Experimental Neurology

    COLLEGE STATION, Texas: NRI Scientist Dr. Samba Reddy, Regents Professor in the Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics and Director of the Institute of Pharmacology and Neurotherapeutics at Texas A&M University School of Medicine, has been appointed as the Editor of Experimental Neurology, a prestigious international medical journal.

    Experimental Neurology, renowned for its focus on neuroscience research on the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders, is considered a top-level journal in the field, boasting an impressive impact factor of 5.6. The journal’s scope encompasses a wide range of topics, including neural development, neuroregeneration, neuroplasticity, and transplantation, making it a pivotal platform for disseminating cutting-edge research in neurology and neuroscience.

    With over two decades of experience in academia and research, Dr. Reddy has established himself as a global leader in neurotherapeutics, particularly in developing new treatments for epilepsy and other brain disorders affecting millions worldwide.

    A TAMUS Chancellor EDGES Fellow and Board-Certified Pharmacist, Dr. Reddy’s research endeavors have been consistently funded by prestigious institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the US Department of Defense (DOD), with annual grant funding exceeding $1.6 million. His work has led to the development of novel neurosteroid treatments for seizures and nerve agent neurotoxicity, as well as the FDA approval of groundbreaking medicines such as Brexanolone for post-partum depression and Ganaxolone for seizures in CDKL5-deficiency epilepsy.

    In addition to his remarkable research achievements, Dr. Reddy is a dedicated educator, teaching medical and graduate-level courses and mentoring numerous students and postdoctoral scholars. His commitment to advancing the field of neuroscience is further evidenced by his service on various national panels and organizations, including the NIH, DOD, and US Pharmacopoeia.

    Dr. Reddy’s appointment as Editor of Experimental Neurology is a testament to his unwavering dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and improving healthcare outcomes for individuals suffering from neurological disorders. Under his editorial leadership, Experimental Neurology is poised to continue its tradition of excellence in publishing groundbreaking research that shapes the future of neurology and neuroscience.

    Dr. Samba Reddy, an Indian citizen, hails from Cherlapally in Parkal subdivision of Warangal District in Telangana. 

  • UH Petroleum Engineering Research Team Helps Oil Companies Increase Production and Reduce Carbon Footprint

    UH Petroleum Engineering Research Team Helps Oil Companies Increase Production and Reduce Carbon Footprint

    By Pramod Kulkarni, Editor

    HOUSTON: The world may be transitioning towards clean energy sources such as wind and solar, but we still need higher volumes of oil and gas production to fulfill the energy demands of a growing global population. Furthermore, to minimize the impact on the environment, the oil and gas industry must produce fossil fuels with a lower carbon footprint.

    University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering is at the forefront of innovative research and practical technologies to help oil and gas companies enhance production while reducing carbon pollution by one of two ways: using carbon dioxide (CO2) released by refining and petrochemical plants for injection into existing fields to recover more oil and gas or injecting the CO2 into inert underground caverns for permanent storage.

    This petroleum engineering research effort is a significant component of the UH Energy Industrial Partnerships and a brilliant example of the University of Houston’s Tier 1 research capabilities fostered by UH Chancellor and President Renu Khator and UH Board of Regents member Dr. Durga D. Agarwal.

    UH Petroleum Engineering Research Team

    Under the leadership of Dr. Ramanan Krishnamoorti, who serves as the Vice President of Energy & Innovation, Dr. Ganesh Thakur, Distinguished Professor of Petroleum Engineering, and director Energy Industry Partnerships, has assembled an extraordinary team of post-doctoral fellows, PhD, and MS graduate students to carry out the research and engineering projects.

    The team includes Dr. Peila Chen, Dr. Morgan (Xuejia) Du, Sr. post-doc Prakash Sabyasachi, Research Associate Dr. Shameem Siddiqi, and PhD students Sameer Salaskar, Parth Shah, Mohammed Noman Khan, and Emi Marisol.

    Dr. Ganesh Thakur: Distinguished Career

    Dr. Thakur’s research interests include multi-disciplinary approaches to the recovery of oil and gas through research pertaining to CO2 – Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR), waterflooding/Improved Oil Recovery (IOR), and integrated reservoir management for conventional and unconventional reservoirs, and Carbon Capture and Underground Storage (CCUS). He has published over 100 journal articles and conference papers and holds five patents. Prior to joining the University of Houston, Dr. Thakur enjoyed a distinguished career of 37 years with Chevron, concluding as Vice President and Global Advisor. He was the president of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) during 2012.  He now serves as the Vice President of TAMEST (Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology), and he will become the President of this organization in January 2025. TAMEST was co-founded in 2004 by the Honorable Kay Bailey Hutchison and Nobel Laureates Michael S. Brown, M.D., and Richard E. Smalley, Ph.D. With more than 340 members, 8 Nobel Laureates and 22 member institutions, TAMEST is composed of Texas-based members of the three National Academies and other honorific organizations.

    The University of Houston Petroleum Engineering research team with lab instruments in the background. Front row from left: Emi Marisol. Dr. Ganesh Thakur, Mohammad Noman Khan. Back row from left: Dr. Morgan (Xuejia) Du, Dr. Peila Chen, Prakash Sabyasachi, Sameer Salaskar, and Parth Shah.

    Reservoir Characterization and Modeling Lab

    In 2016, the UH Petroleum Engineering Department received a $3 million grant from Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s Governor’s University Research Initiative (GURI), which was used to establish a research laboratory with the latest instruments to conduct reservoir characterization, modeling and CCUS studies. A matching grant of $3 million was provided from the University of Houston research funds by Chancellor Khator. The 1,200-square-ft lab includes a CT scanner, Pressure-Volume-Temperature (PVT) system, and Core Flood + Minimum Miscibility Pressure (MMP) dual system. With the use of these instruments, the team can unlock the full potential of conventional and unconventional resources through CO2 and gas EOR and maximize CO2 storage (CCS/CCUS) – onshore and offshore, and determine caprock robustness.

    Joint UH-Oil India Project

    One of the first projects undertaken by the UH Petroleum Engineering research team was an innovative partnership between the University of Houston and Oil India Ltd. (OIL). Launched in 2016, the project was designed to boost production in Oil India fields while providing UH researchers and graduate students with research opportunities and practical experience.

    Phase 1 of the project began in December 2016 with a $500,000 reservoir screening study and focused on analyzing wells in Oil India’s Makum-North Hapjan field to provide recommendations that could quickly boost oil production. More than 50 reservoirs were screened for EOR applications, containing more than 2.5 billion barrels of original oil-in-place.

    Phase 2 came with funding of $1.4 million, with an additional $325,000 for lab-based research. The UH team developed a new petrophysical model for the Makum-North Hapjan fields. Together with new core data and reservoir simulation work, this modeling revealed a significantly higher amount of original oil in place, suggesting Oil India’s reserves are greater than originally estimated. An additional amount of more than 130 million barrels of oil have been identified by rigorous research involving development of a new petrophysical model, and integrated geoscience and reservoir engineering and simulation studies.

    The $2.6 million Phase 3 focused on enhancing oil production by using carbon dioxide captured from nearby petrochemical plants to boost oil recovery in several fields and builds upon the field improvements undertaken in the second phase. The recommendations made current water influx and future water flood more effective, CO2 EOR applicable, and increase RF (recovery factor) from 31% to 40%, with the overall potential to add 19 million barrels of incremental oil.

    “The Phase 3 research work involved more than 18 months of amazing teamwork between UH researchers and Oil India executives in the challenging pandemic time,” Dr. Thakur said. “The project involved several US and India visits by both parties, but due to the Covid-19 situation, most of the weekly interactions happened by videoconferencing at midnight, Houston time. The UH researchers made real sacrifices, and the fruits of their hard work paid off in creating tremendous business impact.”

    “The partnership between Oil India and the UH Cullen College of Engineering is proof of the valuable contributions that we can make with expanded industry relations,” Dr. Durga Agarwal said, “to foster further improvement at the College and university system. Creating more of these successful partnerships internationally and domestically is vital. As an alumni of the University of Houston, I’m proud to see international initiatives like this thrive.”

    Projects throughout the World

    The Oil India project was completed in June 2021. Since then, the UH Petroleum Engineering research team has undertaken numerous oil and gas projects throughout the world, including deepwater Gulf of Mexico, Permian Basin, and onshore Argentina. Despite continual changes in the research team due to graduations and the addition of new graduate students, Dr. Thakur’s focus on achieving optimum results remains unchanged.

     

  • YLDP Student Article: ‘What Does Leadership Teach Me?’

    YLDP Student Article: ‘What Does Leadership Teach Me?’

    YLDP students with Houston Food Bank CEO Brian Greene
    By Riya Shenoy

    Leadership is a multifaceted journey filled with valuable lessons learned from various sources. Throughout my time at YLDP, I’ve gained insights into leadership through the pages of the HBR book and engaging discussions with guest speakers. One crucial lesson I have grasped is the importance of proactivity, a point highlighted by Judge Sandill during one of our sessions. He stressed that leaders mustn’t passively wait for the opportunities but should actively create them, echoing the sentiments in Chapter 6 of the HBR book. Effective leadership demands taking risks and seizing the initiative, transcending mere titles to inspire collaboration and innovation.

    Mr. Brian Greene, CEO of the Houston Food Bank, provided another perspective on leadership, emphasizing the significance of supporting existing initiatives. He underscored that leadership isn’t solely about launching new ventures but also about nurturing and endorsing established ones. This aligns with the ethos of fostering collaboration and setting examples, crucial for effective leadership as discussed in our reading and sessions.

    Furthermore, the concept of responsibility emerged as a cornerstone of effective leadership.  Leaders must consider the broader impact of their actions and make decisions that uphold ethical standards, as highlighted in Chapter 9 of the HBR book. Leadership isn’t solely about  achieving results; it’s about achieving them in a manner that serves the greater good.

    In essence, leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept; rather, it’s a dynamic interplay of qualities and actions. It involved seizing opportunities, shouldering responsibility, and advocating for what is right. My journey at YLDP has taught me that true leadership transcends titles; it’s about inspiring others and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. By integrating the lessons from both the HBR book and guest speakers, I aspire to become a more effective and impactful leader, capable of inspiring positive change and making a meaningful difference in the world.

  • DAV Montessori & Elementary School Students Shine in Texas Rodeo Art Competition 2024

    DAV Montessori & Elementary School Students Shine in Texas Rodeo Art Competition 2024

    Twenty-seven DAVMES students showcased their academic prowess and creativity during the PSIA Academic District Meet.

    By Arti Khanna

    HOUSTON: DAV Montessori & Elementary School (DAVMES) hosted students, parents and well-wishers on Friday February 12 for the Family Nite gathering. Activities included games, toy-train ride for kids, fundraising through an auction sale of items which engaged the creative skills of teachers, and mouth-watering savories and food.

    Texas Rodeo Art Competition 2024

    It was also time to celebrate the participation of DAVMES students in the Texas Rodeo Art Competition 2024.  Jay T. bagged the Gold Medal, and Rohasena I., Ansh S., Manya J., Akshara C., Arvin K., Prisha S., Ishaan B., Suri D., Shaurya I. were the Award of Excellence Winners.

    Outstanding Achievements at PSIA Academic District Meet

    March 2, 2024: Twenty-seven DAVMES students showcased their academic prowess and creativity during the PSIA Academic District Meet, engaging in a diverse range of competitions such as Math, Number Sense, Ready Writing, and more.

    DAVMES student Jay Tavkar & Ms Preet with Jay’s gold medal winning picture 2024.

    The team’s return with a remarkable haul of awards: 15 first place ribbons, 12 second place, 12 third place, 10 fourth place, 2 fifth place, and 6 sixth place in various categories speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers. Congratulations to all participants for their incredible success! DAVMES students won the trophy of the Texas State PSIA Academic Meet over two consecutive years 2022 & 2023.

    Best wishes to the 14 students who advanced to the state meet (scheduled for end April). They are setting new benchmarks for academic excellence and ambition for DAVMES. DAV Montessori & Elementary School (DAVMS) has been serving the Indian community since August 2000 with academic excellence and Spiritual growth.

     

  • Gandhi Museum Hosts Students from the Principal Religious Educational Center

    Gandhi Museum Hosts Students from the Principal Religious Educational Center

    HOUSTON: Stepping inside the museum on Saturday, February 24, 2024, the students were immediately immersed in a world of history and inspiration, surrounded by exhibits showcasing the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi alongside those of other influential figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai and others who dedicated their lives to promoting peace and justice.

    The students were guided by museum docents and embarked on a journey through time, exploring photographs and interactive displays that illuminated the profound impact of Gandhi and other peace leaders on shaping the course of history. Engrossed in stories of nonviolent resistance and courageous activism, the students gained a deeper understanding of the power of nonviolence, compassion, empathy, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The students left the museum inspired and enlightened with newfound knowledge and a renewed sense of purpose, eager to carry forward the legacy of peace and justice in their own lives and communities.

    Principal Hassan Rajani shared their experience with us. “Our visit to the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston was truly transformative. Walking through the exhibits filled with the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi sparked profound reflections on the principles of peace, nonviolence, and social justice. Our group found inspiration in Gandhi’s timeless messages, which resonated deeply with our own values of compassion and empathy. Exploring the museum’s interactive displays and engaging with the knowledgeable staff facilitated meaningful discussions, fostering a greater understanding of Gandhi’s enduring legacy and its relevance in today’s world. We are grateful for the opportunity to have experienced such a thought-provoking and enlightening journey.”

    As part of the museum experience, students were entertained by an uplifting performance from Express Children’s Theater. They also enjoyed demonstrations by Contemporary Handweavers of Houston. Through the act of spinning the charka, students learned invaluable lessons in self-sufficiency, mindfulness, and interconnectedness. They gained a profound appreciation for the laborious yet meditative process of producing cloth—a process intimately tied to Gandhi’s philosophy of simplicity and self-reliance. Through this tactile experience, students understood the importance of sustainable living and the interconnectedness of all beings, realizing that every action, no matter how small, has ripple effects on the world around them. The charka spinning experience instilled in them a sense of empowerment, reminding them that by embracing simplicity and mindful consumption, they can contribute to a more harmonious and equitable world.

    It was truly a distinct privilege for EGMH to host the children from PREC and we hope to share similar experiences with students throughout the Houston communities.

     

  • Significance of Bindi Day Taught at Pin Oak Middle School

    Significance of Bindi Day Taught at Pin Oak Middle School

    Pin Oak Middle School Principal Lindsey Vela with some students wearing the bindi on their forehead. Students enjoyed the doughnut party at the Bindi Day program taught by veteran Hindi teacher Arun Prakash {far left).

    HOUSTON: In the multi-cultural, diverse city that Houston has become, there is a growing demand for teaching second-generation young kids the language and cultures of their parents and grandparents. The Houston Independent School District has taken steps in that direction by opening the Immersive Chinese School off Westheimer and Sage and now the Hindi program at the Pin Oak Middle School.

    In its effort to teach the rich culture of India and Sanatan Dharma one school at a time, the city’s only Hindi, culture of India program and Hindi club at Pin Oak Middle School celebrated Lord Ram’s return to his home on January
    22 as the Blessings Day (Bindi and Tilak Day) by explaining its significance.

    POMS Principal Lindsey Vela participated with great enthusiasm and loved learning about it. All the students in the program participated and discussed it with their friends. Hindi teacher Arun Prakash, a veteran of the well-known but since-closed Hindi program at Bellaire High School, explained the importance and significance of Tilak and Bindi to all of his classes and the world culture teacher also talked about it in her class too. Students enjoyed a doughnut party all day long during their class time. “I wish this could be a scene in every school”, said Arun
    Prakash.

    The Indian diaspora is very influential and several organizations are actively working towards making changes the way the American education system teaches about India. Starting Hindi and Culture of India classes in schools requires very little initial investment, and the proper approach and well-trained teachers can provide instruction for very little initial remuneration. Unfortunately, many Hindi programs have started but failed because of untrained teachers or their reluctance to teach.

  • IIT Kharagpur Honors Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami of B.A.P.S Swaminarayan Sanstha and Sundar Pichai with D.Sc. Degrees

    IIT Kharagpur Honors Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami of B.A.P.S Swaminarayan Sanstha and Sundar Pichai with D.Sc. Degrees

    Doctor of Letters (D.Litt. Honoris Causa) certificate of Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadresh Swami, a Sanskrit scholar of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

    KHARAGPUR, INDIA – In a significant event celebrating academic and professional excellence, the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) has conferred honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degrees upon four distinguished individuals: Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Mr. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet Inc., Mr. Ajit Jain, Vice Chairman, Insurance Operations at Berkshire Hathaway, USA, and Dr. Ravinder Nath Khanna, Chairman & Managing Director of Controls and Switchgear Contactors Limited, Delhi.

    The Doctor of Science (D.Sc.), was conferred by the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur as part of its 69th convocation ceremony. Director Prof. Virendra Kumar Tewari, Dean Shri Kamal Lochan Panigrahi, and Registrar Shri Biswajit Bhattacharya presented the certificate to Bhadreshdas Swami on behalf of IIT Kharagpur.

    Prof. Tewari highlighted the meticulous selection process, stating that Bhadreshdas Swami was chosen from a pool of nominees and the decision had been ratified by more than 800 faculty members and 300 senate members, and approved by the Union Education Ministry and the President’s office. The honor recognizes Bhadreshdas Swami’s exceptional insights into Hindu philosophy, beliefs, and culture, as well as his role as a global Sanskrit scholar contributing to India’s progress.

    Sardar Patel University’s Honorary Doctorate to Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami

    In a separate but equally prestigious event, Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree by Sardar Patel University, Gujarat during the 66th Annual Convocation Ceremony by the Union Home Minister of India, Shri Amitbhai Shah and the Governor of Gujarat, Shri Devvrat Acharya.

    Dr. Niranjanbhai Patel, Vice Chancellor of Sardar Patel University acknowledged Bhadreshdas Swami’s role in reviving the centuries-old commentary tradition, describing it as a special contribution to Sanskrit and Indian culture.

    Expressing his gratitude, Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami attributed the honors to the grace and blessings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, who founded the Sanatan Vedic Akshar-Purushottam Darshan, as elucidated in the sacred text Vachanamrut. He also acknowledged the Swaminarayan guru tradition for disseminating this knowledge and expressed his gratitude to guru His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and guru His Holiness  Mahant Swami Maharaj for nurturing and encouraging him.

    These honors recognize not only his individual accomplishments but also celebrate the rich heritage of Sanskrit and the enduring legacy of the Akshar-Purushottam doctrine.

    About BAPS
    BAPS is a spiritual, volunteer-driven fellowship dedicated to improving society through individual growth, by fostering values of faith, service, and global harmony. BAPS runs on the dedication and commitment of tens of thousands of full-time and part-time volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds who contribute millions of volunteer hours annually. In more than 100 communities in North America and 3,500 communities worldwide, BAPS plays a pivotal role in preserving and nurturing Indian traditions and values of Hindu culture while addressing the spiritual, moral, and social challenges in the world. Under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS’ current spiritual leader, the organization works to promote spiritual equality, advocate for social reform, and empower marginalized voices regardless of their class, race, gender, or religion.

    About IIT Kharagpur
    Founded in 1951, the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur is one of the premier engineering institutions in India, known for its academic excellence and innovative research. With a vibrant campus life and a legacy of alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields, IIT Kharagpur remains a leader in shaping the future of technology and science in India and beyond.

    About Sardar Patel University
    Founded in 1955 and named after India’s architect of unity, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Sardar Patel University (SPU) stands tall as a beacon of academic excellence in Gujarat’s vibrant educational hub of Vallabh Vidyanagar. Nestled amidst 632 acres of serene green spaces, SPU offers a rich tapestry of over 60 years of academic legacy, empowering students across diverse fields like science, social work, humanities, and cutting-edge technology.

    About Mahant Swami Maharaj
    His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.

  • Pin Oak Middle School’s Hindi Club Celebrates its First Diwali Program

    Pin Oak Middle School’s Hindi Club Celebrates its First Diwali Program

    Pushpa Prakash, Arun Prakash with Pin Oak principal Ms. Lindsey Vela

    HOUSTON: USA’s first Hindi and Culture of India department and its Hindi club at the platinum-rated Pin Oak Middle School celebrated their first Diwali (festival of lights) program in style in the school’s auditorium. Huge crowd of students, their parents and Indian community leaders of Houston, including ABC news reporter Pooja Lodhiya, were in attendance.

    This program was organized and presented by middle school students under the leadership of Hindi Club president Anisa Sinha. Other officers Lily, Naina, Farhana and Arnavi did a wonderful job of taking care of every detail of the program from creating brochure to certificates, directing and choreographing dances and being the master of ceremony.

    Samar Haque sang the US national anthem and Arnavi Dua sang Bharat’s national Anthem and she also gave a talk on Diwali as well as performed in a Bollywood dance. Janki Pathak, Mythili and Simran Ramchandani performed classical dances related to the festival. A beautiful Indian classical dance in Odissi dance style was performed by a senior at Carnegie Vanguard High School, Nidhi Gupta. Hindi Club students presented several Bollywood dances and the Garba as the concluding performance with the participation of the audience.

    Pin Oak Hindi Club students in their Diwali finery.

    School’s Dance Company students presented a fabulous Bollywood dance. Students and parents under the leadership of Mrs. Pranika Sinha beautifully decorated the place and provided several Diwali-related games, diya painting and books on Hindu religion were also displayed. Henaa art was a big attraction among all kids, teachers and parents.

    No Indian festival is complete without delicious Indian food and there was plenty of it enjoyed by everyone at the end of the show. All of this was possible because of the support from a number of parent sponsorships. Diwali and Holi are India’s largest celebrated festivals in the world but the most remarkable thing is that there is only one middle school in the USA, where 6,7 and 8 graders from every ethnicity celebrated a grand Diwali.