Indo American News

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  • TCC TAPED BALL SUMMER T10 PROF 2025 | WINNERS: STYX | RUNNERS-UP: MASTERS

    TCC TAPED BALL SUMMER T10 PROF 2025 | WINNERS: STYX | RUNNERS-UP: MASTERS

    Champions: STYX

    STYX Crowned T10 Champions with Dominant Final Performance

    HOUSTON: STYX produced a commanding display in the professional T10 final for Divn II teams against Masters, winning by 42 runs to seal the championship. After winning the toss and electing to bat, STYX posted 113 for 6 in their 10 overs, powered by a blistering 38 from Varun Jaswal and 29 from Debloke Maitra, with vital support from Aveg Kadian, Yash Patel and Debasish Das.

    Runners Up: Masters

    Masters faltered in the chase as STYX’s bowlers turned on the pressure. Dharmesh Patel, Aarnav Patel, and Naveen Kumar Reddy each claimed two wickets, while Ramesh, Vinay Kumar Pillai, Aveg Kadian, and Vinay Padala applied tight control. A highlight in the field came when Aveg Kadian pulled off a superb catch to dismiss Milin Patel, swinging momentum firmly in STYX’s favor. Masters were restricted to 71 for 9, handing STYX a comprehensive victory and the championship title.

    The tournament showcased STYX’s all-round strength, depth and dominance across the series. Varun Jaswal was named Player of the Match, Debloke Maitra earned Player of the Series honors, and Debasish Das was recognized as Best Wicketkeeper of the Series. Strong performances across the campaign from Aarnav, Vinay Padala, Naveen, Ramesh, Yash Patel, Vinay Kumar Pillai, Dharmesh, Aveg, and Tarakaram highlighted the team’s balance, while contributions from Sudhir, Sanjiv, Vinay Patel, Adi, and Devjit in the league stages proved crucial in the road to the final. STYX’s triumph was a true team effort, underpinned by fearless batting, clinical bowling, and sharp fielding.

    The victory was followed by a vibrant presentation ceremony, organized by Jagadish. Captain Debasish Das and VC Vinay Kumar Pillai received the Winners’ Trophy for STYX, while the Runners-up Trophy was collected by Masters captain Arun Anthony. Dinesh, the co organizer was thanked for his volunteering activity in scheduling of the tournament.

    Varun from STYX was the MOM for the final for a match winning 38 runs. Debloke from STYX was named MVP of the tournament for his exceptional performance.

    Tournament award winners were. Narsimhareddy from Telge Tigers CM  got best batsman with 135 runs, Hashan from SLL got best bowler with 13 wickets. Debashish from STYX got the best wicketkeeper with 18 dismissals. Sandeep from Telge Tigers CM  got Best All Rounder with 112 runs and 6 wickets. Hashan from SLL and Santhi Vardhan from Rodeo CC received special awards for Hat trick.

    From the STYX team: “We would like to congratulate and thank Masters team for the excellent competition and also take this opportunity to thank Jagdish, Dinesh and the organizers for the most well-managed and competitive taped ball tournament in Houston”.

    Cric clubs score card is https://cricclubs.com/viewScorecard.do?&matchId=2677&clubId=8675

    YouTube link is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bMtv5AzJio&t=0s

    Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket.com/?p=1110

  • Sewa International’s 5th Annual Charity Golf Event Triumphs with Resounding Success

    Sewa International’s 5th Annual Charity Golf Event Triumphs with Resounding Success

    HOUSTON: Sewa International’s annual charity golf tournament was held on September 7th in honor of 9/11, marking its fifth successful year at the picturesque Wildcat Golf Club in Houston. Anup Bhasin, Joint Coordinator of Sewa International’s Houston Chapter, warmly welcomed the players and guests. The ceremonial tee-off was led by Judge Christian Becerra, presiding judge of the 434th District Court in Fort Bend County, who has been a steadfast supporter of Sewa for over five years. He encouraged everyone to continue backing the organization’s impactful work.

    The tournament followed a four-person scramble format and drew 19 competitive teams from across Houston. Among the standout participants were an all-women’s team, a team from the Pearland Police Department, a group of high school girls, and a team featuring Raveesh Malhotra, backup astronaut for India’s first space mission. Sewa once again partnered with Backswing Golf Events to host the fan-favorite “Beat the Pro” challenge.

    Competition was fierce, with teams vying for top honors. The award ceremony began with remarks from Madanji Luthra, Vice President of the Sewa Houston Chapter, who recounted Sewa’s rapid and coordinated response to the recent Texas floods. Within just ten days, over 100 volunteers from the Houston, Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio chapters mobilized to provide aid—managing centers, clearing debris, and directly assisting underserved families. Sewa teams worked hand-in-hand with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, VOAD, and local partners to deliver food, water, hygiene supplies, and medical care to displaced residents.

    Sewa LEAD youth members Anoushka Bhasin and Mahathy Chintalapati served as emcees for the ceremony, where awards were presented by event sponsors Leena Bhasin, owner of the Law Office of Leena Bhasin—a prominent firm specializing in immigration and family law—and Mahesh Jadhav, Co-founder and Partner at Navigature.

    The entire event was thoughtfully planned and executed by a dedicated team of Sewa volunteers, with high school students playing a key role. On a beautiful late summer day, they came together to support a meaningful cause. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Sewa’s ongoing service projects in Houston, including flood relief efforts focused on underserved communities.

    This year’s event, which saw a record number of participants, was the result of months of detailed planning and tireless effort by the organizing team led by Anup Bhasin and Vijay Ramu. Looking ahead, they aim to grow the tournament’s reach and impact even further.

    Sewa International extends heartfelt gratitude to Judge Becerra, sponsors Navigature, Law Office of Leena Bhasin, Deep Foods, Diyendu Singh, and Qoros; supporting organizations Manabadi, Sansar Catering, and LTSFA; all participating players; and the many committed volunteers who made this event a resounding success.

  • Commentary: Is India a ‘Tariff King’? Not Really

    Commentary: Is India a ‘Tariff King’? Not Really

    By Mohan Kumar

    Former Indian Ambassador and Director General of Jadeja Motwani Institute for American Studies

    There is a widespread but fallacious perception that India’s tariffs are inordinately high. There are subjective factors when it comes to a country like livability, public courtesy, or even how foreigners are welcomed. But tariffs are quantifiable and there should really be no place for subjectivity. So, let us consider the facts in the case.

    Before we do that, however, it might be useful for the average reader to know as to what function tariffs perform in a low-income developing country like India, as opposed to say, a high-income developed country like the United States of America. Traditionally, low-income developing countries use tariffs for two reasons: one, to protect their domestic industry and two, to gain revenue from it. Protection of domestic industry is an accepted argument by economists all over the world, especially if the industry is an infant one and the country needs to develop an industrial base. Then, there is the revenue gaining function, which is illustrative of a country’s duties on alcohol or luxury motorcycles, for instance.

    India’s tariffs, which were high in the 1980s, were brought down significantly since the 1991 reforms were initiated and during the negotiations related to the Uruguay Round, which led to the establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Since then, the secular trend in India has been one of gradual reduction of the applicable tariffs year after year.

    From a technical point of view, there are two kinds of tariffs that countries have. One is applied tariffs, which as the name indicates is the actual tariff (normally ad valorem) imposed at the border when a foreign good enters a country.

    The other one is bound tariffs, which is the maximum tariff that a country can impose on a foreign good from a legal obligation arising from its most-favored-nation (MFN) commitments to the WTO.

    It goes without saying that the tariff war initiated by the U.S. is in violation of its commitments under the WTO agreements. But then, the WTO itself has been moribund for a while. It is also worth noting that tariffs cannot be the same for all countries. It is a truism that low-income developing countries will have higher tariffs (for reasons mentioned above) compared to G7 countries.

    So, where does India figure in all of this? When India is judged on tariffs, there are two parameters which are used. One is simple average tariffs, and the other is trade-weighted tariffs. If you use the former metric, India’s tariff does seem high (15.98 percent). But this is in many ways academic because for most of the goods that come into the Indian market, it is the trade-weighted applied tariff that matters. And the trade-weighted tariff that India maintains is a very respectable 4.6 percent. This level of tariff gives the lie to claims that India is somehow a tariff king. Simple averages distort the picture since they treat all products alike regardless of the trade volumes. So, why is there such a big difference between India’s simple average tariff and its trade-weighted tariff?

    India does maintain relatively high tariffs in agriculture and automobiles. In both these cases, the main purpose of the tariffs is to protect domestic industry. Agriculture in India is sui generis and like no other major country in the world. Around 50 percent of India’s mammoth population directly or indirectly depends on agriculture. Besides, agriculture in India is not mechanized and land holdings are so small that farming is about survival and not about commerce. Asking India to open its farm sector to imports is akin to asking it to commit suicide, which no elected government in India would agree to. This demand is especially egregious since Western farmers are beneficiaries of direct and indirect subsidies.

    Given all of this, India does maintain relatively high tariffs for agriculture products, average rates of around 33 percent on meat, dairy, fruits, and cereals. But this is not surprising if you consider the fact that the European Union’s average rate is 37.5 percent on dairy products going up to 205 percent, and up to 261 percent on fruits and vegetables. Compare this with Japan whose rate is 61.3 percent on dairy products, going up to 298 percent, and up to 258 percent on cereals, and 160 percent on meat and vegetables. Or South Korea, whose average is 54 percent on agricultural goods with 800 percent on vegetables, and 300 percent on fruits. Who is the tariff king in agriculture, you might ask? As for automobiles, this sector creates mass employment and is crucial for that reason.

    Even India’s simple average tariff levels at 15.98 percent is in line with global norms for developing economies. Bangladesh (14.1 percent), Argentina (13.4 percent), and Türkiye (16.2 percent), which are all countries with comparable or higher GDP per capita, maintain similar or higher tariffs.

    On the U.S. saying their exports of non-agricultural products face tariff barriers in India, it is worth noting that U.S. exporters often face equal or lower tariffs in India compared to many Asian peers. In electronics and technology for instance, India has 0 percent tariff on most IT hardware, semiconductors, computers, and associated parts, with average tariffs of 10.9 percent on electronics and 8.3 percent on computing machinery.

    In comparison, Vietnam has a tariff of 8.5 percent on electronic equipment, going up to 35 percent. China has a tariff rate of 5.4 percent going up to 20 percent on electronics, and up to 25 percent on computing machinery. And Indonesia has a tariff rate of 6.3 percent on electronic equipment, going up to 20 percent, and up to 30 percent on computing machinery.

    It is true that India maintains justifiable tariff protection for its agricultural, dairy, and auto markets for valid reasons. But its trade-weighted applied tariff in other sectors does not justify it being called a “tariff king” at all.

    Dr. Mohan Kumar is a former Indian ambassador and is director general of the newly established Jadeja Motwani Institute for American Studies at the OP Jindal Global University.

    The views expressed in this article are the writer’s own. — Newsweek

  • TCC TAPED BALL SPRING PROF 2025 | WINNERS: ALL STARS CC | RUNNERS-UP: BIG12

    TCC TAPED BALL SPRING PROF 2025 | WINNERS: ALL STARS CC | RUNNERS-UP: BIG12

    Winners: All Stars CC

    HOUSTON: In a historic showdown, All Stars CC clinched their first-ever TCC Taped Ball Spring Professional Championship for Div II teams defeating the formidable Big 12 in a low-scoring final that showcased discipline, firepower, and composure.

    Big 12 won the toss and chose to bat first, posting a modest 105/9 in 20 overs. Their innings never gained momentum, thanks to a relentless and balanced bowling attack led by Thisara Ishan, who removed key batter Neeraj early and went on to claim 3 wickets for 21 runs, delivering searing pace and pinpoint accuracy. He was well supported by Tanmay Shah, Archit Shah, and Roshaka Rajapaksha, each maintaining tight lines and pressure. A fighting 30 off 36 by Varun Satyanarayana was the only resistance, helping Big 12 reach a competitive total.

    Runners Up: Big 12

    Chasing 106, All Stars openers Chathura Silva and Nishant Padhiar provided a steady foundation. The chase was anchored further by Roshaka Rajapaksha (34) and Archit Shah (34), with Nishant Padhiar contributing 26, guiding All Stars to a comfortable victory with eight wickets in hand. Arun Indugula and Prabaharan Devadoss picked up a wicket each for Big 12.

    Led by the cool-headed captain Manoj Warnapura and dynamic vice-captain Thisara Weerasekara, All Stars finally ended their title drought, lifting the trophy in style.

    The final was followed by a lively presentation ceremony, hosted by TCC organizer Jagadish Biradar. Dinesh, the co-organizer was thanked for his flawless volunteering activity of scheduling. Roshaka Rajapaksha of All Stars was the MOM for the final for the match-winning effort of 2 wickets and 34 runs. He was also the Man of The Series. The Winners’ Trophy was received by All Stars Captain Manoj Warnapura, while the Runners-up Trophy was accepted by Big12 captain Arun Indugala. Ojas from BHCC was best batsman with 325 runs, Roshaka from All Stars was the best bowler with 14 wickets, Pavan from Javelinas-Genx was the best keeper with 27 dismissals, Ojas from BHCC was best allrounder with 325 runs and 8 wickets, Aneesh from Big12, Manik from TG Titans and Ojas from BHCC got special awards for centuries, Vivek from Neo Spring Vireos got a special award for Hat trick

    The TCC Spring 2025 Prof Final will be remembered for All Stars’ rise to glory and a tournament filled with standout performances and fierce competition

    Cricclubs score card is https://cricclubs.com/3T/viewScorecard.do?matchId=2583&clubId=8675

    YouTube link is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBOORRcDwH8

    Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket.com/?p=1104

  • Dilip Desai: An Inspiration to Seniors

    Dilip Desai: An Inspiration to Seniors

    Table tennis and Game Changer awards winner: Dilip Desai

    SUGAR LAND: Dilip Desai is an 83-year-old resident of Sugar Land. He has lived here for 35 years and has been an active participant in the Senior Olympic Games since 2012.

    Desai was recently selected as one of just ten athletes nationwide to receive the Humana Game Changer award. This honor celebrates senior athletes who embody healthy aging and inspire others to stay active. Humana is the prime sponsor of the National Senior Games, also known as the Senior Olympics, which take place every two years.

    This year’s games were held in Des Moines, Iowa, where more than 13,000 athletes competed. Desai competed in table tennis in his age group and brought home a silver and a bronze medal. He has been representing Texas in the games since 2012 and has won a total of three silver and one bronze medal over the years.

  • India’s 79th Independence Day Celebrations throughout Houston

    India’s 79th Independence Day Celebrations throughout Houston

    HOUSTON: Consulate General of India (CGI) hosted the Har Ghar Tiranga exhbition, celebrating the tiranga’s
    legacy and India’s national pride. Consul General DC Manjunath shared insights on the history and significance
    of the history and significance of the Tiranga.

    Attendees from the Indian Diaspora explored portraits showcasing the evolution of the national flag and stories of courage tied to its journey, celebrating the spirit of patriotism. Guests included “The Bengal Files” movie team with Director Vivek Agnihotri and actress Pallavi Joshi.

    CGI will be hosting Independence Day with a flag hoisting on Friday, August 15 at 8:00 am at the Consulate
    at 4300 Scotland Street, Houston, Texas 77056. Guests who have RSVPed are requested to arrive at 7:30
    am.

    India House will be hosting its flag hoisting at 10 am at 8888 West Bellfort Avenue, Houston, Texas 77031. India Culture Center and its partnering organizations will host “Vijayee Bharat” I-Fest on Sunday, August 17 at the Stafford Center, 10505 Cash Road in Stafford, Texas.

  • What is in the One Big Beautiful Bill?

    What is in the One Big Beautiful Bill?

    By Chetan K. Dave

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

    Items marked (*) have conditions attached to them.

    Key highlights are:

    ·       No change to current personal tax brackets.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ·       Department of Defense budget increased by $150 Billion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Champions: WOMCC

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

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

    Runners Up: CSK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • TCC SPRING 2025 PREMIER | WINNERS: WOMCC | RUNNERS-UP: CSK

    TCC SPRING 2025 PREMIER | WINNERS: WOMCC | RUNNERS-UP: CSK

    Winners: WOMCC

    HOUSTON: In one of the most thrilling finals in TCC Taped Ball history, WOM Cricket Club (WOMCC) emerged victorious over Cypress Super Kings (CSK) to clinch the TCC Taped Ball Spring 2025 Premier title. The victory was especially sweet for WOMCC, who had previously fallen just short as runners-up in both the Spring T20 2024 and Summer T10 2024 editions of the Premier series. For CSK it was their first appearance in a Premier final.

    Batting first, CSK posted a competitive total of 145 in their 20 overs. Khurram Nawaz Khan played a sensational knock of 55 off 34 balls, anchoring the innings after early breakthroughs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, CSK managed to build partnerships and keep the scoreboard ticking. WOMCC bowlers were disciplined, with Jayanth Kalakuntla (4-0-17-2) and Abhiram Sirigineedi (4-0-28-1) playing key roles in limiting the total. A flurry of late wickets and sharp fielding from WOMCC restricted CSK to a chaseable score.

    Runners Up: CSK

    The innings also featured a crucial turning point: a smart and decisive run-out engineered by Harsha Teja and Abhiram Sirigineedi, to get Mohammed Asfar right when CSK were attempting a late surge. In addition, wicketkeeper Prakash Parthiban was outstanding behind the stumps, affecting four dismissals, including three catches and one run-out. His sharp glovework and awareness played a massive role in keeping CSK from posting a more imposing total.

    In response, WOMCC’s innings began in complete disarray, collapsing to 35/7 in just 8 overs. CSK’s bowling was led by Sriram Sureshkumar, who bowled a good spell and got 4 wickets for just 10 runs, shaking WOMCC’s top and middle order. At that stage, CSK looked destined for glory.

    However, what followed was an unbelievable comeback, scripted by Abhiram Sirigineedi, who delivered one of the finest under-pressure knocks in TCC history. Walking in with the team in tatters, Abhiram played a sensational unbeaten innings of 71 off 41 balls, blending calculated aggression with calm composure. He lit up the final with 6 towering sixes and 5 piercing fours, thrilling the crowd and carrying WOMCC’s hopes single-handedly in a pressure-packed chase. He was well supported by Sreekanth Tangella, who scored 34 off 20 balls, helping bring WOMCC back into the contest with a crucial partnership for the eighth wicket.

    With just one wicket remaining and 48 needed in the final 5 overs, the pressure was immense. But Abhiram held his nerve, finishing the game with a quick running between the wickets in the final over to lead WOMCC to a one-wicket win, sealing their first TCC Premier championship in dramatic fashion.

    The final was followed by a lively presentation ceremony, hosted by TCC organizers Jagadish Biradar and Dinesh Kasliwal. Abhiram Sirigineedi was named Man of the Match for his heroic match-winning effort. Vishwatej Mudigonda was declared the Man of The Series. The Winners’ Trophy was jointly received by WOMCC Captains Harsha Teja and team Owner Neelesh Musale, while the Runners-up Trophy was accepted by CSK captain Krishnan Narayanan, who led his team with great spirit and resolve in their debut final. For tournament awards, Hamza from CSK was best batsman with 275 runs, Sarvanakumar from CSK was the best bowler with 15 wickets, Sukitha from Tuskers was the best keeper with 23 dismissals, Kiran from ECC was best allrounder with 231 runs and 10 wickets, Paul from Bulls and Saad from Gladiators got special awards for centuries and Vishal from ECC got a special award for Hat trick

    This victory marks a major milestone in WOMCC’s journey in TCC, showcasing resilience, fight, and championship character. For CSK, this final was a proud statement of their rise in the TCC Premier ranks and a glimpse of future success to come.

    Cric clubs score card is at https://cricclubs.com/3T/fullScorecard.do?matchId=2580&clubId=8675

    YouTube link is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntWF2WIngUY

    Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket.com/?p=1106

     

     

  • Indian American PAC Hosts Reception for Congressman Suhas Subramanyam

    Indian American PAC Hosts Reception for Congressman Suhas Subramanyam

    Mr. Rick Pal welcoming U.S. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam and the Attendees

    HOUSTON: The Indian American PAC of Greater Houston hosted a special reception honoring U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam, a native Houstonian currently serving Virginia’s 10th Congressional District. The event took place Friday evening, June 14, at the private office and warehouse of Rick Pal, a Houston-based entrepreneur and philanthropist.

    Approximately 35 guests—including professionals, local leaders, and political advocates—attended the event, which offered an opportunity for direct engagement with the Congressman in an informal, welcoming setting. Also in attendance was Mike Doyle, Chair of the Harris County Democratic Party,  The evening featured refreshments and conversation, with a focus on civic dialogue and community priorities.

    Rick Pal, who graciously hosted the reception, welcomed attendees and opened the program by highlighting Congressman Subramanyam’s impactful leadership and bipartisan approach. “It’s an honor to host Congressman Subramanyam here in Houston,” said Rick Pal. “His values reflect the kind of leadership we need—principled, inclusive, and focused on real solutions. ”

    Dr. Purushottam Sahoo, President of the Indian American PAC, thanked guests for their participation and reiterated the organization’s mission to promote political awareness and advocacy among Indian Americans. He noted the growing engagement of young volunteers, several of whom supported event logistics and outreach.

    U.S. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam and the attendees

    Congressman Subramanyam reflected on his Houston upbringing and his journey into public service, including his role as a White House advisor during the Obama administration and his current work in Congress. He spoke about bridging partisan divides, protecting youth online, and expanding access to mental health care. “I carry Houston with me every day in Congress,” said Congressman Subramanyam. “This city taught me the values of hard work, empathy, and service—and those are the values I bring to every policy decision. I’m honored to return home and connect with a community that helped shape who I am.”

    The evening concluded with an engaging Q&A session, photo opportunities, and a private dinner with Congressman Subramanyam and key Indian American PAC supporters and community leaders.

    About the Indian American PAC

    Founded, in 1996, the Indian American political action committee ( Indian American PAC) Is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization, dedicated to building political awareness and advocacy within the Indian American Community..Through events, forums and public policy initiatives, the PAC helps amplify the communities voice at the local state and national levels.

  • India’s Multi-party Delegation led by Shashi Tharoor Meets Guyanese Officials

    India’s Multi-party Delegation led by Shashi Tharoor Meets Guyanese Officials

    Lutfi Hassan (left), Houston-based Guyana’s Ambassador to the United States, meets with India’s MP Shashi Tharoor in Georgetown.

    GEORGETOWN: A multi-party delegation led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday arrived at the original Parliament building in Guyana’s Georgetown for a meeting with Manzoor Nadir, Speaker of the National Assembly, to highlight India’s stand against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.

    The delegation, led by Tharoor, consists of Shambhavi Chaudhary (Lok Janshakti Party), Sarfaraz Ahmed (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha), G M Harish Balayagi (Telugu Desam Party), Shashank MTripathi, Tejaswi Surya, Bhubaneswar K Lata (all from BJP), Mallikarjun Devda (Shiv Sena) and Former Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu.

    They arrived in Guyana on Sunday and called upon the Vice President of Guyana. They met Bharrat Jagdeo, Vice President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, to discuss several key issues, including India’s zero-tolerance stand against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

    Speaking to media after the meeting, Tharoor hailed the discussions and noted that the talks also featured the larger issues in the relationship between Guyana and India. Speaking to ANI, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said, “It was a phenomenal meeting.”Calling Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, “a good friend of the nation”, Tharoor said, “He (Vice President) showed a tremendous amount of understanding for our (India’s) position on the current events with our neighbour.”

    Tharoor also noted that the discussions involved talks on the bilateral ties between India and Guyana. Highlighting the deep ties between New Delhi and Georgetown, Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora, who is a part of the multi-party delegation led by Shashi Tharoor, thanked Guyana’s people and government for standing with India in its fight against terrorism.”Today, after America, we have come to Guyana, under the leadership of Shashi Tharoor. There
    is a very deep relationship between Guyana and India. In a way, the people of Guyana have a very deep affection for India. And on the day when Guyana is celebrating its 59th Independence Day,  we are celebrating this with the people of Guyana,” Deora told ANI.

    The delegation will visit Panama from May 27 to 29. The visit aims to convey India’s message of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In an official statement on Monday, the Indian Embassy in Panama said, “An all-party parliamentary delegation from India, led by Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, will be visiting the Republic of Panama from 27-29 May 2025 to convey India’s strong message of
    zero-tolerance for terrorism.

  • Letter: Pahalgam Massacre and its Aftermath

    Letter: Pahalgam Massacre and its Aftermath

    The Pahalgam Massacre: A grim reminder of lapses and the poison of terrorism. — Insight UK

    As an Indo-American who loves Bharath dearly I have some points for all of us to consider:

    1. The massacre was a grave intelligence failure. How can such a well organized attack take place about 120 kilometers from the border? Why there was no security detail in such a crowded tourist spot?
    2. Reading neutral reports it appears India lost at least one Raphael jet. Pakistan have advanced Chinese J10 jets with PL-15 missiles probably  with a longer range than  French MICA missiles used by India. Why were these jets  used without neutralizing enemy countermeasures. Israel did this effectively while attacking Iran .  It appears the Indian jets ran into an ambush.
    3. Indigenous anti air attack platforms and missiles like Brahmos performed very well. India showed it can hit any site in Pakistan. This may be the reason for Pakistan asking for a ceasefire.
    4. The West will never give India their most advanced weapon systems. They are also prohibitively expensive. The only answer to this, is to develop our indigenous weapon industry along with overall economic progress.
    We should never have an ostrich like approach. Truth should be faced even if it is unpleasant and corrective measures taken. This approach will definitely bring success at the end.
    JAY K RAMAN
  • Sukh Kaur in Runoff for San Antonio City Council

    Sukh Kaur in Runoff for San Antonio City Council

    SAN ANTONIO: Sukh Kaur, District 1 city councilwoman, will face the run-off elections in June. Kaur, who finished first among a crowded field of 10 candidates, fell short of gaining the 50 per cent plus one vote needed to avoid a runoff. She will face business owner Patty Gibbons in the runoff election.

    Kaur said that she was proud of the team that she had put together. First elected in 2023, she is an edu-cationist and a real estate business woman and the first Indian Ameri-can to serve on the city council. In her campaign, she focused on af-fordable housing for residents of her district.

  • Sanjay Singhal heads to runoff for Sugar Land City Council District 2, Rides Wave of Community Trust

    Sanjay Singhal heads to runoff for Sugar Land City Council District 2, Rides Wave of Community Trust

    SUGAR LAND: As Sugar Land grows more diverse and dynamic, with rising infrastructure needs and a call for more transparent leadership, one candidate has captured the community’s attention: Sanjay Singhal.

    A first-time contender with global experience and strong local ties, Singhal emerged as the clear favorite in the crowded, five-way Sugar Land City Council District 2 race.

    After receiving 38.78% of the votes, Singhal now heads into a June runoff against Nasir Hussain (22.4%).

    “I feel energized, humbled, and deeply grateful for the strong support from District 2 voters,” Singhal said. “It’s a privilege to continue this journey.”

    A proven leader in action

    As president of the Telfair HOA, Singhal lowered HOA fees to the lowest in Sugar Land while growing the reserve fund to $6 million, ensuring long-term financial security.

    However, it was his role during last September’s high-stakes town hall over a controversial power plant proposal that earned him citywide recognition. With hundreds of frustrated residents in attendance and tensions running high, Singhal calmly moderated the forum, ensuring every voice was heard and ultimately urging city officials to abandon the unpopular plan.

    “I was representing the majority in Telfair and New Territory, where about 80% of the residents opposed the power plant,” he said. “It was the wrong project in the wrong location—and not financially sound.”

    An electrical engineer from IIT Delhi and a global professional with 33 years of experience at Schlumberger, Singhal brings deep technical knowledge and cross-cultural understanding to the table.

    “The response has been heartwarming,” Singhal said. “So many residents have reached out to offer support and get involved… My goal is to transform city management to be more transparent, cost-effective, and resident-focused. Every resident deserves a voice in how this city grows.”

     A strong showing at the ballot box

    Singhal’s message clearly struck a chord.

    Out of 31,322 ballots cast in the May election, representing a 7.54% turnout, Singhal received 1,681 votes (38.78%), the highest share among all five candidates. His closest opponent, Nasir Hussain, received 22.4% of the vote. Bradley Tilton followed with 21.82%, and the remaining votes were split between Cindy Picazo and Gladys Nunez.

    With no candidate reaching 50%, the top two—Singhal and Hussain—now move to a runoff election in June to fill the District 2 seat vacated by Naushad Kermally.

    A Vision for Sugar Land’s Future

    Singhal’s platform is ambitious yet grounded in the realities of residents’ needs:

    PUBLIC SAFETY & COMMUNITY WELL BEING

    • Strengthening support for law enforcement, emergency response teams, and community safety programs to keep Sugar Land secure
    • Invest in technology and training to improve safety and crime prevention
    • Improve the management of pet facilities (animal shelter) in Sugar Land.

     GROWTH OF SUGAR LAND

    • Pursue projects which will increase employment opportunities in the city – such as research center in collaboration with University of Houston.
    • Redevelopment of certain areas of the city, balancing the views of the nearby residents, developer’s recommendations and project financing needs.
    • Improve digital infrastructure by ensuring better internet connectivity and stronger cell phone reception across the city

     MORE TRANSPARENT & COLLABORATIVE CITY GOVERNMENT

    • Actively seek resident input on major city decisions, such as infrastructure projects and developments like power plants
    • Foster open communication between city leadership and the community to build trust and engagement

     EFFICIENT CITY MANAGEMENT

    • Cut wasteful expenditures to reduce the cost of services and lower the tax burden on residents

    Singhal and his wife Ruchi, married for 34 years, raised their two sons Rishabh and Sanchit with values of education, service, and adaptability—traits reflected in Singhal’s approach to leadership. After years of international assignments, the family planted roots in Sugar Land.

    Looking Ahead

    With a powerful first-round showing and a message of inclusive, practical leadership, Sanjay Singhal is poised to bring refreshing new energy to Sugar Land City Council. Voters will have another opportunity to choose their representative in the upcoming June runoff.

    “I’ll keep working hard—listening, learning, and sharing solutions to the challenges our residents face,” Singhal said. “I look forward to connecting with more voters and participating in forums like the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce debate.”

  • TCC WINTER 2024 | WINNERS: POWERSTARS | RUNNERS-UP: RSCC

    TCC WINTER 2024 | WINNERS: POWERSTARS | RUNNERS-UP: RSCC

    Summer 2024 Champions Powerstars

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

    RSCC, opting to bowl first after winning the toss, faced a determined Powerstars batting lineup. Powerstars posted a strong total of 156 in their allotted 20 overs. Navin Negi once again led from the front with a composed 50, anchoring the innings with precision. Ronald Robinson unleashed a brutal counterattack, hammering a quick-fire 44, injecting much-needed momentum into the innings. Their aggressive partnership left RSCC bowlers searching for answers.

    Winter 2024 Runners up RSCC

    Chaitanya Krishna was the standout bowler for RSCC, delivering an exceptional spell of 4 overs for just 21 runs and picking up 2 crucial wickets, while the other RSCC bowlers provided solid support to keep Powerstars from running away with a bigger total.

    In reply, RSCC’s innings started shakily as Sunny Nadeem struck early, taking 2 wickets in the first three overs, putting immediate pressure on the batting side. However, Sravan Bondugula stabilized the innings with a brilliantly crafted 51, keeping RSCC in the hunt. Karthik Verma almost turned the game on its head with a blistering quick-fire 35, pushing the match down to the final over.

    With 7 runs needed off the final over, the pressure was at its peak. Dylan Joseph, displaying nerves of steel, defended the total masterfully, sealing an unforgettable win for Powerstars by a narrow margin. His calmness under fire turned out to be the game-changer.

    The Powerstars’ bowling unit was outstanding throughout the tournament, and special kudos go to Rohit Bade, Vinit Patel, Saad Bantawalla, and Harish Tanaki, who bowled exceptionally well, applying relentless pressure on opposition batters and contributing crucially in key moments. Their disciplined spells played a huge role in the team’s championship run.

    Navin Negi’s consistent brilliance with the bat, Ronald Robinson’s explosive knock, and Dylan Joseph’s ice-cool final over defense were key highlights, supported by disciplined bowling performances throughout the game. Dylan’s composure under immense pressure in the final over showcased his nerves of steel and proved vital in securing Powerstars’ thrilling victory.

    Kalyan Chivukula, the proud owner, Karthik Vadlamudi, the captain, and Rohit Bade, the energetic vice-captain, were all instrumental in leading Powerstars to yet another championship, maintaining their perfect 5/5 record in TCC finals!

    The victory was followed by a vibrant presentation ceremony, organized by Jagadish Biradar and Dinesh Kasliwal, the organizers. Captain Karthik Vadlamudi received the Winners’ Trophy for Powerstars, while the Runners-up Trophy was collected by RSCC’s captain Chaitanya Krishna. Navin Negi from Powerstars was the MOM for the final for a match winning half century and he was also the MVP of the tournament. Tournament award winners were. Sai Kiran from RSCC got best batsman with 446 runs, Tanuj from Kastech Kings got best bowler with 15 wickets. Akalanka from SLL got the best wicketkeeper with 25 dismissals. Jayan from Kastech Kings got Best All Rounder with 154 runs and 9 wickets. Sai Kiran from RSCC, Shahil from JCC, Darshan from Gladiators and Girish from HCCC got special awards for centuries.

    Cric clubs score card is at https://cricclubs.com/3T/info.do?matchId=2474&clubId=8675

    YouTube link is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bR4hXv55d1g

    Report on TCC Taped Ball website is at https://triggerscricket.com/?p=1079

  • Tagore Talk 2025 at India House: Glimpses of India’s History and Governance by Sanjeev Sanyal

    Tagore Talk 2025 at India House: Glimpses of India’s History and Governance by Sanjeev Sanyal

    Sanjeev Sanyal with interviewer Sunanda Vashisht

    By Partha Sarathi Chatterjee Advisor, TSH

    HOUSTON: It was not a Bollywood star or a famous religious preacher, but on April 19th evening it seemed that a rock star had come to town from the overflowing crowds that came to India House to attend the 2025 Tagore Talks.

    The featured speaker at the event was Mr. Sanjeev Sanyal, Secretary of the Government of India and a member of PM Modi’s Economic Advisory Council. The Talk was the 10th in an annual series that is organized by the Tagore Society of Houston (TSH), an iconic Houston institution established in 1974 with the primary mission of propagating the universal philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore. Tagore’s vision for a modern India is beautifully expressed in the words of the poem “Where the mind is without fear…into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.” It is in this light that the Tagore Society invited Mr. Sanyal, who in his own right is a renowned thinker, economist, in fact a veritable polymath, to headline this year’s Talk, to illuminate for the community the inner strivings of the Government of India in order to reach the goal of a Vikshit (Developed) Bharat by 2047.

    TSH boardmembers with dignitaries

    This Talk was attended by a standing room only crowd. Many of them have been ardent followers of his eloquent podcasts and interviews on the internet. The event was kicked off by a soulful rendering of Tagore’s famous song “Anandaloke” by two of the youngest members of Tagore Society.

    Dhruba Ghose, TSH President, welcomed everyone and gave the highlights of TSH mission and its achievements. Honorable DC Manjunath, Consul General of India  in Houston, spoke about why the Talk and TSH’s mission is relevant in modern times and Tagore’s connection to Houston. Dhruba Ghosh then introduced Ms. Sunanda Vashisht, a celebrated Houston journalist, who then introducedMr. Sanyal to the crowd and moderated the rest of the Talk.

    Sanjeev Sanyal’s Talk was focused “India’s Process Reforms: Attrition Warfare vs DOGE Blitz”. He explained the meticulous process that is being followed to reduce bureaucracy, cut down on processing time, eliminate waste and ridiculous norms, many carried over from British times. Every success he highlighted needed deep investigative analysis and incessant desire to find waste and improve processes. Tagore’s words are so apropos for the passionate zeal by which these reforms are being approached, as detailed by Mr. Sanyal.

    “… Where the world has not been broken up into fragments

    By narrow domestic walls

    Where words come out from the depth of truth

    Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection

    Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way

    Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit …”

    The important aspect of the Talk was not the details but its demonstration of the brilliant technical minds that are driving India’s development. Sanjeev Sanyal attended other smaller gatherings before the event, including at the Consul General’s house, with community leaders, TSH volunteers and sponsors, and also after the event. At every such gathering, the discussions were animated and covered many aspects of India’s governance and place in
    the world. One could sense his admirable brilliance across subjects.

    From AI to modelling in ship design to economics to governance, he floored the audience with his clarity of thoughts and depth of knowledge. He talked about his work in building a stitched ship in line with India’s maritime glory. He discussed how the world order needed disruption for meaningful change and how India is primed for success given the world situation now. A stable educated population, governed by an efficient government, can do wonders. He even talked about AI governance, the perils of declining population faced by various countries, terrorism and instability, and how it is critical for India to continue the path it is currently on.

    Seeing Mr. Sanyal in person, hearing him talk and converse in smaller groups, it is obvious that India is in good hands; it completely moved the needle in the terms of the community’s general perception of how India is governed.

    Tagore Society of Houston could bring this fantastic event and the brilliant speaker Sanjeev Sanyal, thanks to the incredible team of Executive Board, Advisors and volunteers, supported by sponsors and partner organizations. TSH will continue to bring such eminent speakers and cater to the vibrant community here in Houston.

  • Over 60 Residents Demand Accountability from Rep. Troy Nehls

    Over 60 Residents Demand Accountability from Rep. Troy Nehls

    FORT BEND COUNTY, TX – Residents of Texas’ 22nd Congressional District gathered Monday evening at the Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Annex Building for a public town hall organized by local community leaders and residents. Despite repeated invitations, Congressman Troy Nehls did not attend or respond.

    The town hall was organized in response to growing frustration over Rep. Nehls’ failure to host a public town hall in four years since taking office. Residents voiced concerns on a range of issues, including veterans’ services, public education, healthcare, and the need for accessible, responsive representation in Washington.

     Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy, a resident of CD-22, joined constituents in calling for greater transparency and engagement from their congressional representative.

     “Hearing a veteran get up and talk about how threatened he feels his sacrifice is today hit me deeply. Hearing a teacher talk about how she feels that her students and their families are being threatened hit me deeply, because I know these threats are real,” said Commissioner McCoy. “The only thing we have asked is for our elected representative to show up and answer our questions.”

    The event follows a grassroots movement that escalated last month, when Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and former Congressman Beto O’Rourke visited Fort Bend County to host a town hall at the request of local organizers. Commissioner McCoy pledged at that event to help create space for constituents to gather and be heard during the April Congressional District Work Period. Although Rep. Nehls was invited to attend Monday’s event, he did not respond to the invitation.

     Organizers say this is only the beginning of continued efforts to foster civic engagement and hold public officials accountable. Residents in attendance were encouraged to stay involved, continue reaching out to their representatives, and participate in upcoming opportunities to shape policy at the local, state, and federal levels.

  • Disha USA Hosts 2025 Fort Bend ISD Candidate Forum

    Disha USA Hosts 2025 Fort Bend ISD Candidate Forum

    By Juhi Varma

    HOUSTON: DISHA USA proudly hosted the 2025 FBISD Candidate Forum to a full house, reinforcing our commitment to civic engagement and community involvement. The event provided a valuable platform for candidates to share their perspectives and for the public to engage with those seeking to shape the future of our
    school district. We extend our sincere gratitude to all six candidates for their dedication to public service and for taking the time to participate in this important discussion. Their willingness to engage with the community highlights the importance of informed decision-making in local elections.

    A special thank you goes to our esteemed moderators, Jigisha Doshi and Dr. Nik Nikam, whose extensive preparation and dedication ensured a well-structured and engaging dialogue. Their efforts helped facilitate a meaningful conversation that addressed key concerns and priorities within the district.

    The forum featured a wealth of insightful and thought-provoking questions submitted by the audience. While time constraints prevented all questions from being addressed during the event, we have compiled a list of the remaining questions and invite the candidates to provide their responses.

    At DISHA USA, we remain committed to fostering informed civic participation by organizing events that empower the community to engage with candidates and stay informed on critical issues. We encourage everyone to take part in the electoral process. Early voting will be held from April 22 through April 29, and Election Day is on May 3. Make your voice heard—go vote!

  • Ekta Ka Mahakumbh — The Dawn of a New Era

    Ekta Ka Mahakumbh — The Dawn of a New Era

    By Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India

    The Mahakumbh has successfully concluded in the holy city of Prayagraj. A grand Mahayajna of Unity has been completed. When the consciousness of a nation awakens, when it breaks free from the shackles of a centuries-old mindset of subjugation, it breathes freely in the fresh air of renewed energy. The result of this was witnessed at the Ekta Ka Mahakumbh (Mahakumbh of Unity) in Prayagraj since January 13.

    On January 22, 2024, during the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, I spoke about Devbhakti and Deshbhakti – devotion to the divine and to the nation. During the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Gods and Goddesses, saints, women, children, youth, senior citizens and people from all walks of life came together. We witnessed the awakened consciousness of the nation. This was Ekta Ka Mahakumbh, where the sentiments of 140 crore Indians converged at the same place, at the same time, for this sacred occasion.

    In this holy region of Prayagraj is Shringverpur, a sacred land of unity, harmony and love, where Prabhu Shri Ram and Nishadraj met. Their meeting symbolized the confluence of devotion and goodwill. Even today, Prayagraj inspires us with the same spirit.

    For 45 days, I witnessed crores of people from every corner of the country making their way to the Sangam. The wave of emotions at the confluence kept rising. Every devotee came with one purpose – taking a dip in the Sangam. The holy confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati filled every pilgrim with enthusiasm, energy, and confidence.

    This Mahakumbh in Prayagraj is a subject of study for modern management professionals, planning, and policy experts. Nowhere in the world is there any parallel or example of this scale.

    The world watched in wonder how crores of people gathered at Prayagraj at the banks of the confluence of rivers. These people had no formal invitations, no prior communication on when to go. Yet crores of people left for the Mahakumbh of their own accord and felt the bliss of taking a dip in the sacred waters.

    I cannot forget those faces radiating immense joy and satisfaction after the holy dip. Women, elders, our Divyang brothers and sisters – everyone found a way to reach the Sangam.

    It was particularly heartening for me to see the overwhelming participation of India’s youth. The presence of the younger generation at the Mahakumbh sends a profound message that the youth of India will be the torchbearers of our glorious culture and heritage. They understand their responsibility towards preserving it and are committed to carrying it forward.

    The number of people who arrived in Prayagraj for this Mahakumbh has undoubtedly created new records. But beyond those physically present, crores of people who could not reach Prayagraj were also deeply connected emotionally to the occasion. The sacred water brought back by pilgrims became a source of spiritual bliss for millions. Many of those returning from the Mahakumbh were received with respect in their villages, honoured by society.

    What has happened in the last few weeks is unprecedented and has laid a foundation for centuries to come.

    More devotees arrived in Prayagraj than anyone had imagined. The administration had estimated attendance based on past experiences of the Kumbh.

    Nearly twice the population of the United States participated in this Ekta Ka Mahakumbh.

    If scholars of spirituality analyse the enthusiastic participation of crores of Indians, they will find that India, proud of its heritage, is now surging ahead with a new-found energy. I believe this is the dawn of a new era, which will script the future of a new India.

    For thousands of years, the Mahakumbh has strengthened India’s national consciousness. Every Purnakumbh used to witness a gathering of saints, scholars and thinkers deliberating upon the state of society in their times. Their reflections used to provide a new direction to the nation and society. Every six years, during the Ardhkumbh, these ideas were reviewed. After 12 Purnakumbh occurrences spanning 144 years, obsolete traditions were given up, newer ideas were embraced, and new traditions were created to move ahead with times.

    After 144 years, in this Mahakumbh, our saints have once again given us a new message for India’s development journey. That message is Developed India – Viksit Bharat.

    At this Ekta Ka Mahakumbh, every pilgrim, whether rich or poor, young or old, from villages or cities, from India or abroad, from the East or the West, from the North or the South, irrespective of caste, creed and ideology, came together. This was an embodiment of the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat that filled confidence in crores of people. Now, we must come together in the same spirit for the mission of building a developed India.

    I am reminded of the incident where, as a little boy, Shri Krishna revealed a snapshot of the whole universe within His mouth to His mother Yashoda. Similarly, in this Mahakumbh, the people of India and the world have witnessed the massive potential of India’s collective strength. We must now move forward with this self-confidence and dedicate ourselves towards building a developed India.

    Earlier, the saints of the Bhakti movement had identified and encouraged the strength of our collective resolve across India. From Swami Vivekananda to Sri Aurobindo, every great thinker reminded us of the power of our collective resolve. Even Mahatma Gandhi experienced it during the freedom movement. Post-independence, if this collective strength had been correctly recognised and harnessed towards boosting the welfare of all, it would have become a great force for a newly independent nation. Unfortunately, it was not done earlier. But now, I am gladdened to witness the way in which this collective strength of the people is coming together for a developed India.

    From the Vedas to Vivekananda, from the ancient scriptures to modern satellites, India’s great traditions have shaped this nation. As a citizen, I pray that we draw new inspiration from the memories of our ancestors and saints. May this Ekta Ka Mahakumbh help us move ahead with new resolutions. Let us make unity our guiding principle. Let us work with the understanding that service to the nation is service to the divine.

    During my election campaign in Kashi, I had said, “Maa Ganga has called me.” This was not just an emotion but also a call of responsibility, towards the cleanliness of our sacred rivers. Standing at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati in Prayagraj, my resolve became even stronger. The cleanliness of our rivers is deeply linked to our own lives. It is our responsibility to celebrate our rivers, big or small, as life-giving mothers. This Mahakumbh has inspired us to keep working towards the cleanliness of our rivers.

    I know that organizing such a massive event was no easy task. I pray to Maa Ganga, Maa Yamuna, and Maa Saraswati to forgive us in case there were any shortcomings in our devotion. I see Janata Janardan, the people, as an embodiment of divinity. In case there has been any shortcoming in our efforts to serve them, I also seek the forgiveness of the people.

    Crores of people came to the Mahakumbh with a feeling of devotion. Serving them was also a responsibility that was carried out with the same feeling of devotion. As a Member of Parliament from Uttar Pradesh, I can proudly say that under the leadership of Yogi Ji, the administration and the people worked together to make this Ekta Ka Mahakumbh a success. Be it the state or Centre, there were no rulers or administrators and instead, everyone was a devoted sevak. Sanitation workers, police, boatmen, drivers, people serving food – everyone worked tirelessly. The way the people of Prayagraj welcomed the pilgrims with open hearts despite facing many inconveniences was particularly inspirational. I express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to them and the people of Uttar Pradesh.

    I have always had unwavering confidence in the bright future of our nation. Witnessing this Mahakumbh has strengthened my conviction manifold.

    The way 140 crore Indians turned the Ekta Ka Mahakumbh into a global occasion is truly wonderful. Moved by the dedication, devotion and efforts of our people, I will soon visit Shri Somnath, the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, to offer the fruits of these collective national efforts to Him and to pray for every Indian.

    The physical form of the Mahakumbh may have culminated successfully on Mahashivratri, but just like the eternal flow of the Ganga, the spiritual strength, national consciousness and unity that Mahakumbh has awakened will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

  • IAPAC Gala Addresses the Mental Health Crisis in America

    IAPAC Gala Addresses the Mental Health Crisis in America

    Gigi Lee (Chief of International Affairs, City of Houston) along with IAPAC board members (including past presidents and founding members Jagat Kamdar, Randhir Sahni and Ravi Ratnala (representing his father the late Rao Ratnala).

    HOUSTON: The Indian American Public Affairs Council (IAPAC) hosted its annual gala at the Junior League of Houston, focusing on the urgent issue of mental health in America. Themed “Addressing the Mental Health Crisis in America,” the event brought together over 220 attendees, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, to foster dialogue and inspire collective action in tackling this critical challenge.

    IAPAC President Roopa Gir (left) with Senator Manka Dhingra, Randhir Sahni, Ashok Mago, Sonal Shah and Jagat Kamdar

    The evening opened with a stirring rendition of the U.S. and Indian national anthems by Sharan Thind, followed by a warm welcome from Dr. Roopa Gir, President of IAPAC. Dr. Gir highlighted the importance of reducing stigma and creating culturally relevant solutions to address the mental health challenges facing diverse communities.

    A keynote address, delivered via video by Dr. Rahul Gupta, National Director for Drug Policy at the White House, set the tone for the evening. Dr. Gupta’s remarks explored the intersection of mental health and substance use, emphasizing the urgency of tackling these issues with both compassion and immediate action. His call to action resonated deeply with the audience, establishing a strong foundation for the evening’s discussions.

    The emotional highlight of the evening came from Anagha Surendran, who courageously shared her personal journey of overcoming OCD and mental health struggles. Her powerful account deeply moved attendees, underscoring the critical need for support, understanding, and expanded access to mental health care. A standing ovation followed, reflecting the profound impact of her story.

    Anagha Surendran displays extraordinary courage as she opens up about her mental health illness.

    A panel discussion featuring Senator Manka Dhingra, Wayne Young (CEO of the Harris Center for Mental Health), and Stephen Glazier, Ph.D. (Behavioral Health Expert, UT Health), focused on actionable solutions for reducing stigma and improving mental health care. Dr. Young remarked, “Fostering conversations about mental health is exactly how we reduce stigma and help individuals seek support when they need it most.”

    Senator Dhingra emphasized the importance of addressing mental health within the Indian American community, stating, “Mental health is as important to discuss as other health issues like cholesterol or heart disease.”

    The evening also featured a creative fashion show inspired by the “nine rasas” (human emotions), with models wearing traditional designs by VIVA. This artistic performance visually captured the emotional spectrum of mental health, offering a profound reflection on the complexity of human emotions.

    To add levity to the evening, Dr. Shehzaad Batliwala’s stand-up comedy act entertained guests while also promoting themes of acceptance and belonging.

    IAPAC also honored the outstanding contributions of Ashok Mago, Sonal Shah, and Senator Manka Dhingra for their tireless advocacy and leadership. Their efforts have made a lasting impact on the community and continue to inspire positive change.

    Additionally, special recognition was given to the founders of IAPAC—Jagat Kamdar, Randhir Sahni, and the late Rao Ratnala—for their visionary leadership and lasting contributions to the organization’s mission and success.

    The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Naveen Kochoth, IAPAC Board Member, who expressed gratitude for the participation and support of all attendees.

    The success of the gala was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Blume Foundation and Karavalli Capital & Ventures, whose platinum sponsorship played a pivotal role in bringing the event to life. Dr. Roopa Gir reflected, “This evening demonstrated the power of community and collaboration. Together, we are breaking the silence around mental health and building a more compassionate, equitable future.”

    For more information about IAPAC and its mission, please visit www.iapachouston.org or contact info@iapachouston.org.

    About IAPAC

    The Indian American Public Affairs Council (IAPAC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-partisan organization representing over 250,000 Indian Americans in Greater Houston since 1996. IAPAC advocates for mental health, education, and social equity, working to empower communities and eliminate stigma surrounding mental health issues.