HOUSTON: Hindus of Greater Houston will host 13th Hindu Annual Youth Awards and Gala on August 22, 2026 from 5 p.m at the VPSS Haveli, 11715 Bellfort Village Drive, Houston, TX 77031.
Raj Syal saw the need to bring Hindus in Houston together in establishing HGH in 1989. Over the last 37 years, the Hindu community in Houston has grown and now there are over 35 temples currently in the Greater Houston area. With growth Hindu community has become more diverse in terms of temples, festivals, traditions and community organizations. The role and mission of HGH is more important than ever before.
The keynote speaker will be Mr. Maneesh Mehra, himself a previous Hindu Youth Awardee..
Mr. Sharad Amin, a respected Hindu community leader in Houston and past President of HGH, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ms. Sangeeta Bhutada, a well known Houston based artist will receive a Special Award for her Exemplary Contribution in Arts for her “Diwali Forever” 2026 USA Postal Stamp Rangoli Art.
HGH’s mission is to build harmony within the community and provide outreach services to all Hindu Organizations. It organizes Hindu Leaders Meet of all temples and organizations. It oversees and guides the Hindu Heritage Youth Camp and supports the group, Young Hindus of Greater Houston.
Ms. Anjali Aggarwal, , Co-President of Young Hindus of Greater Houston said, “Dharma is not something we simply inherit. It is something we are responsible for carrying forward through our actions, our leadership, and our seva. The strength of the Hindu community depends on a generation of young Hindus who are rooted in their identity, unafraid to lead, and committed to serving something greater than themselves. Through the Hindu Youth Awards, we are not only honoring what our youth have accomplished; we are declaring that the future of our community is here and is ready to lead”
Ms. Rachana Shah, President of Hindus of Greater Houston, said, “The future of our community lies in nurturing and empowering the next generation. Hindus of Greater Houston is committed to creating opportunities for youth leadership and meaningful engagement. By nurturing pride in our heritage and encouraging active participation, we ensure a strong and vibrant future for Hindu Americans in Houston. Youth Awards is a recognition of their effort and glimpse of future leaders.”
Keynote speaker Maneesh Mehra is a long-time Houstonian married to Dr. Niharika Mehra and they have two teenage children. The family has multiple businesses. The family supports several
charitable causes, including Sewa, Texas Hindu campsite, and Hindu American Foundation.
Donations can be made to Hindus of Greater Houston by via Zelle to hghacct@gmail.com and via www.hidusofhouston.com; Mail checks to Hindus of Greater Houston, Attn: Mr. Tupil Narasimhan, , 310 Sandy Bluff, Houston, TX 77079.
