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Sold Out Houston Diwali Mela Brimming with Mumbai Style Celebrations

Photos: Meedu’s Fotografy, Murali Santhana, and Nilo Armanamendez.

Click here for photo collage

By IAN Correspondent

HOUSTON: A record early turnout marked this year’s Houston Diwali Mela at the Skeeters Stadium on October 25. The benevolent Gods cancelled all rain for the week, instead sending halka sa cooling evening breezes to nearly 10,000 patrons in a yet again sold out event sponsored by the Zee TV, Zee Family, India.com, and Tara Energy.

Masala Radio organizers Sunil and Sandhya Thakkar reflected, “Third time’s the charm!” noting their team’s flawless execution of gorgeously decorated booths, gigantic 3-level stage with impeccable sound and lights, new magician act, CO2 and pyro effects that upped the standards for Indian events.

Starting at 5PM, from outside the Main Entrance, guests were dazzled with amazing lights, DJ Rizz music, pink and orange Indian designed structures laced with nostalgic Indian cars like the Fiat, Mumbai Taxi, Rikshaw and new matching Orange Masala Radio Hummer. Ganpati welcomed all from within a specially flown in Indian Raj Tent by Favored Events. A Living Statue of Divine Goddess Laxmi along with beautiful chunia-choli clad Apsaras invited all in to peruse the House of Spices Grand Bazaar of 40 merchandise and corporate booths bursting with Diwali fashions, jewelry, and home decor, followed by 8 very busy chatpata street food vendors Chowpatty Chaat, Mirch Masala, Hyderabad House, Vishala Foods, Maharaja Bhog, Udipi Café, Baloch Ice Cream, and Rani Foods. Kids enjoyed a throng of giant McDonalds inflatable rides, electric Carousel, playground, and hourly magic shows by Curt Miller!

Soon after 7 PM, Emcee Sunil Thakkar opened the stage with an electrifying welcome as City of Sugarland Mayor pro-tem Harish Jajoo lit up the traditional multi-level brass diya. The Masala Team tightened the Tara Energized stage show to 3 hours embarking on this year’s journey through the decades of Bollywood, beginning with the 60’s as presented by the tiny darlings of Ek Do Teen Academy. Jasmeeta’s Creations added a nostalgic twist with a bicyclist performer. 70’s was represented by Sunanda Nair Dance Academy through the era’s semi classical and folk songs like “Aaj Phir Jine Ka Tamanna Hai.” Nitya Hari’s Dancing Stars and Bollywood Shake brought in the rocking 80s, followed by Ramji & Associates presenting the winners of the Rangoli competition their giant checks: $501 to First Place Rachana Bhutala, $301 Second Place Viki Shah, and $201 to Third Place Amruta Sarda.

While the stage was rocking with dance, song, and lights, a heavenly procession of Hindu Gods was stirring up the already extremely packed promenade. 20 Malayali folk drummers, Torch holders (OK LED light holders), Apsaras with flowers and fans preceded 10 young, beautiful Hindu Gods: Radha-Krishna, Sita-Ram Laxman and Hanuman, Shiva-Parvati Ganesh, and of course the glittering Laxmi. Invoked by SKAI Foundation and adorned by the Gujarati Samaj of Houston, the Gods descended among delighted audiences to the 2 dugouts to kick off the Hindus of Greater Houston 3000-diya Maha Arti. The Maha Arti was led by the generous major sponsors of the event: Grand Sponsors Zee TV, India.com, Tara Energy, Diamond Concert Sponsor Maharaja Jewelers, Platinum Fireworks Sponsor Mercedes Benz, Gold Sponsors Jugal & Raj Malani, Alings Hakka, Ramji & Associates, Keemat Grocers and House of Spices. Silver Sponors Tilak & Manju Agarwal, Brij & Sunita Agarwal, Govind & Renu Agarwal, Sanjay & Anjali Khanna, Memorial Hermann, SKAI Foundation, Sutherland Mortgage, Fiesta, One Step Diagnostic, Maharashtra Tourism, St. Lukes, Darling Homes, Sienna Plantation-Cross Creek Ranch-Riverstone-Imperial Sugarland, Perry Homes, and GSH, ICC, and HGH.

Next was a romantic 90’s medley by UH’s Houston Jannat, followed by the heated Alings Hakka Fire Dancers. The energy level peaked with the 2000’s finale series by Rhythm India, Infused Performing Arts, and Naach Houston.
This frenzy of excitement could only be met by the Maharaja Jewelers sponsored headliner for the evening, the king of pop bhangra, MANJ MUSIK formerly known as RDB along with Dholi Deep! The Fire Marshall had to block a thousand guests from jumping the walls to join the dancing VIPs around the stage as Manj delivered hit after hit “Sadi Galli” “Whistle Baja” “Om Mangalam” and “Paisa Paisa”. He then shocked the audience with an Amitabh Medley, and then pleased the hard core Punjabis with a string of his immensely popular Punjabi songs. The stage was filled with synchronized colorful dancers by Infused Performing Arts, and alternate teams of Naach Houston. This combined with Pyro and C02 effects provided the rock concert celebration the young audience thirsted for.

Mercedes Benz engaged the audience in a countdown to the stadium-sized fireworks spectacular, creating an effect of thousands of Diyas lighting the Skies to mark Lord Ram’s conquest over the evil Ravan. Guests beckoned Manj for an encore with a grand finale of “Singh is King” accompanied by the deft Naach Houston dancers. VIPs and Sponsors enjoyed rows and rows of front and center seats as the stadium provided new specialty decking to cover the precious infield grass.

Masala Radio remains committed to setting the standards for Indian events, and creating the same Diwali anticipation for kids and young adults that their parents and grandparents experienced decades ago in India. Next year organizers are already planning to build a giant temple darshan area with deities from leading Hindu temples. To participate or provide feedback, contact events@masalaradio.com. Next year’s Houston Diwali will be a few weeks before Diwali so families can celebrate actual Diwali days at home.

Masala Radio would like to thanks its dream management teams: Office: Munira, Rinku, Shah, Akshay, Devangi & Nathan. Event Team: Ruchir, Shivani, Ninad, Krupa, Nimi, Sameep, Amisha, Ina, Nimi, Naina, Priti and Yogina. Stage Team: Vikas, Sunny T, Preanka, Dilip, Dj Zee, Sushil, Sonali, Sunny K, Rupal, and Pari. Dancers Mehran, Ashka, Meena and Sheezan. Special Thanks to the excellent volunteers from UH ISA.

Photos and Video coming soon to HoustonDiwali.com or www.facebook.com/HoustonDiwali.

October 30, 2014
Hillcroft Motorists Honk to Support Daya’s One Voice 2014 to End Domestic Violence

Outreach Liaison Sam Merchant (center) presents a certificate of appreciation from U.S. Congressman Al Green to Daya President Jyoti Kulkarni and Daya staff, board members, volunteers and HPD officers.

By Pramod Kulkarni

HOUSTON: On Saturday, October 25 afternoon, the Hillcroft district turned into an Indian street scene with cars honking in support of the community gathering organized by Daya to commemorate October as domestic the violence awareness month.

The One Voice human chain had Daya volunteers holding up posters urging motorists to honk in support of an end to domestic violence.

Daya volunteers, staffers, board members and volunteers formed a human chain along Hillcroft at the intersection of Harwin with posters urging motorists to honk their horns in support of South Asian families in crisis. Adding to the voices of the Daya volunteers was the Bollywood music booming from a loud speaker and the beat drummed by a dhol player provided by DJ Yogi’s team.

This was the 8th annual One Voice gathering held in cooperation with Houston Police Department’s Domestic Violence Unit. Officer Muzaffar Siddiqi, who serves as the South Asian liaison for HPD, has been involved since the beginning.

HPD Officer Muzaffar Siddiqi and his daughter Dania participated in the One Voice human chain.

After the attendees participated in the human chain, they gathered for lunch featuring biryani, fried chicken and cookies.

A large number of mainstream and South Asian community organizations and businesses helped sponsor the rally. Space sponsor was EK Perfumes. Event sponsors included Simmons Foundation, Houston Endowment and Indo-American Charity Foundation. Food was contributed by Kohinoor Diamonds, Mayuri Restaurant, Udipi Café, Raja Sweets and Church’s Chicken.

DJ Yogi’s team provided the strong beat of dhol and Bollywood music.

Sam Merchant, outreach liaison for U.S. Congressman Al Green, presented a certificate of appreciation to Daya Houston President Jyoti Kulkarni and Daya participants.

Daya promotes healthy family relationships in the South-Asian community by providing services that include counseling, referrals, legal advocacy, and financial support to women and children affected by family violence and sexual assault.

Daya’s help line: (713) 981-7645.

October 30, 2014
Celebrations of Diwali and Govardhan Puja at ISKCON of Houston

HOUSTON: ISKCON of Houston held jubilant festivals of Diwali, “Festival of Lights” on Oct. 23 and Govardhan Puja on Oct. 24. The temple was bustling with numerous volunteers performing a multitude of services in preparation for these special occasions. Devotees engaged in cleaning, decor of flower strands and arrangements, setting up lights, and preparing candles. This inevitably showed the result of how much detail and care every single volunteer placed into making the newly opened temple wonderfully enchanting.

Colorful flowers hugged the pillars of the altar and strands hung over with twinkles of light. Every color imaginable was visible either on the flower decor, the deities, the changing back drop lighting or the sea of colorful sparkling saris in the temple room.

Diwali signifies victory of light over darkness, good will over maliciousness and love over hate. HH Giriraj Swami enlightened the crowd with a lecture from Bhagavad Gita. The anticipated moment of candlelight aarti approached as the lights dimmed and the temple room grew quiet. Seconds later, the curtains unveiled spiritual glamour taking everyone’s breath away as hundreds of small floating white and red candles, set in rows, covered the altar floor. The two pillars installed on each side of Sri Sri Radha Nila Madhava displayed tall white candles framing the transcendental couple. The deities, stunning in their special outfits, glowed so brilliantly illuminating everyone’s heart in their presence.

The next day, celebration continued for Govardhan puja which celebrates the day Lord Krishna defeated Indra by lifting the Govardhan hill. Govardhan hill is also worshipped as Krishna’s incarnation. Devotees prepare foodstuff, which are offered to the deities. HH Giriraj Swami blessed all with his presence as he performed abhishek for Sri Giri Govardhan. HH Giriraj Swami attentively bathed the deity and then shared a pastime of Krishna and Govardhan hill from the Nava-Vraja Mahima. He mentioned how Krishna went in through a cave to the center of Govardhan hill and lifted it up with his small finger.

The altar was filled at every inch with preparations during maha aarti. Silver tins and pans contained an array of items from gulab jamun, cupcakes, peanut butter burfi, pies, cakes, cookies, chapatis, coconut sweets and all kinds of treats.

The melodious mantra tunes had devotees immersed in ecstatic dancing and singing. Sri Giri Govardhan in the center of the temple allowed guests & devotees the opportunity to circumambulate the hill – a very auspicious activity. It was quite an emotional scene to view so many circumambulating with such loving expression and gratitude.

There is no doubt that these two days of festivities will remain as a significant memorable experience to everyone that attended. It is said that love is displayed by great activities and gestures. The best way for one to feel and see such phenomenon of beauty based on love for Krishna, is to experience it for yourself.

Krishna’s door is always open for everyone. Happy New Year to all of our friends.

Iskcon of Houston is located at 1320 West 34th Street, Houston, TX 77018. For further details visit www.iskconofhouston.org

October 30, 2014
Jehangir Lakhani (1957-2014)

Jehangir Lakhani, a loving, caring, always smiling individual, known for spreading laughter and happiness, passed away on Thursday, October 23 in Houston, Texas after a battle with a rare kidney Cancer, Sarcomatoid Renal Cell Carcinoma.

Born in Navsari, India, Jehangir moved to America in 1984 to pursue new opportunities and endeavors. After a long journey of hardships and struggles he and his wife, Renuka Lakhani invested in and operated several businesses, and real estate properties, which brought them to the point where they are today. Jehangir was heavily involved in community events and was a Commercial Real Estate Agent and Investor by profession. But more importantly, he was an inspiring individual who strived to help others and bring happiness to those around him.

Jehangir, who was physically active and full of energy, was diagnosed with Stage 4 Kidney Cancer just three months ago in July when taken to the doctor for a chronic dry cough. With symptoms that were easily overlooked like weight loss and a common backache, did not know that a cancer so dangerous was in his body and would spread like an irrupting volcano in the few months to come. Due to the type of cancer and the severity of spread in different organs, there were absolutely no treatment options available. However Jehangir’s spirit was high, and with a positive attitude he readily took any and all alternative/ homeopathic treatment options available.

With his wife’s constant and unconditional loving support, his relatives, friends and well-wishers prayers and support, helped him through this short unforeseen period, before he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.

He is survived by his wife, Renuka, daughter Narmeen, and Son, Nishant in Houston. He also leaves behind numerous Houston community friends. He will be remembered for his generous, loving heart and joyful nature.

October 30, 2014
A Simply Magnificient Diwali Celebrations at Radha Madhav Dham

Beautifully decorated lights at Radha Madhav Dham.

AUSTIN, TX: Amazing fireworks, captivating rangoli’s, beautifully adorning lamps sparkling up the temple grounds, mouth-watering delicacies and raas garba dancing until midnight – Diwali at Radha Madhav Dham was buzzing with energy and activity until late into the night on October 18.

Over 6,000 people flocked into the temple premises. It was a perfect family event with something for everyone – face painting, games, arts and crafts booths for kids, a mela-style setup with vendors displaying and selling traditional Indian jewelry and clothes. People gathered around the numerous food stalls, enjoying the taste of delicacies like dosa, chana bhatura, pakora, samosa. And, everyone got a Diwali Goodie bag as their momento from the temple… “I forgot that night that I live in the U.S., this feels so much like being in India”, stated a first time visitor at the event.

Rangoli outside temple

Inside the temple, the altar with deities of Radha and Krishna was mesmerizing, with rangoli of flowers and traditional patterns dressed up with sparkling lights and diyas lighting up the shrine and captivating the hearts of everyone that set eyes upon them.

The Diwali program started with the singing of Ramayan Chaupais, describing the glories of Lord Ram followed a talk by Swami Nikhilanand Ji, explaining the significance of Diwali through the leelas of Shabri, the old and devout lady, whose only aim in life is to have Darshan of Shree Ram. Following the talk, the audience witnessed these stories performed live, through leela enactments by the devotee community of the temple. The single-minded devotion and love of Shabri and the sincere bhakti of Hanuman towards Lord Ram touched the hearts of everyone who witnessed the leelas. The cultural program ended with a mesmerizing jhanki (glimpse) of the Ram Darbaar – where Shree Ram, Sita, Laxman and Hanuman were seen in all their glory as classical performers danced to the stuti in praise of Lord Ram.

Ram and Sita darshan

Then came the spectacular fireworks show choreographed with the chants of Raaadddhhhhheeeeeyyy. People stood in rapt attention, eyes focused on the sky as the fireworks and chanting sounds filled the skies. Soon after, the live band started the traditional dance of Raas Garba in the Maharaas Mandal (outdoor shrine), and hundreds of people, young and old, came together to participate in the joyous dancing and togetherness.

Meanwhile, inside the temple chanting continued with enthusiastic devotees, singing and dancing to the tunes of beautiful bhajans and naam sankirtan.

Diwali was a memorable experience for all those who participated! Radha Madhav Dham consistently and uniquely provides the ambience and energy that makes everyone gathered there feel like they are celebrating the festival back home in India. This place truly offers everyone a home away from home.

For more photos of the event, like the Radha Madhav Dham’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RadhaMadhavDham.

October 30, 2014
Siddhivinayak Temple Now Open in Houston

Photos: Vanshika Vipin

By Vanshika Vipin

HOUSTON: The newly opened Gauri Siddhivinayak Temple of Houston celebrated its grand opening with the Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav (idol installation ceremony). The event was held from Friday, October 17 through Sunday, October 19 at the temple located at 5645 Hillcroft Avenue, Suite 701, Houston.

Priest Pradip Pandya

The temple idol in Houston is replica of the Ganesh idol in the Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir located in Mumbai, India, which is dedicated to Lord Shri Ganesh. In India, the temple glory was bought not only by the politicians who frequented the temple but also Bollywood film stars who continuously visit to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Siddhivinayak is well known as “Navasacha Ganapati” or “Navasala Pavanara Ganapati” (Ganapati grants the wish whenever humbly genuinely prayed) among devotees.

The festivities started with the Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav on Friday, October 17. As the idol was being installed, devotees surrounded Him, being a part of the magical occasion and welcoming the god Ganesh at His new home in the heart of Hillcroft’s Little India.

The day continued with chanting of the shlokas and later mahaprasad in the evening. The following day on Saturday, October 18, the Siddhivinayak maha abhishek was held that took place from 3 pm to 7 pm, followed by maha aarti and mahaprasad. The final day of the grand opening ceremony on Sunday, October 19, the temple organized a maha yagna with 108 modaks (favorite sweet of the God).

For founder member and chief priest at the temple, Pradip Pandya, the mahotsav is a dream realized. “ I would like to thank all Houstonians, for their support in making this a successful event. We had about 700 people who came forward and supported this event. The temple welcomes everyone as Ganesh is not limited to any one part of the country, He is worshiped by everyone,” said Pandya.

The temple also has idols of Lord Krishna, Gauri Mata, Shiv Ling, Hanuman, and Ram darbar. The temple is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm and everyday aarti is performed at 7:30 pm. The Gauri Siddhivinayak temple is a non-profit 501(C) 3 organization and all donations are tax deductible.

For further information or to participate in pooja, sponsorship or volunteering call Pradip Pandya at 832-466-9868.

October 30, 2014
Gurajada Sphoorthi Utsavam at India House

Consul General Harish with participants

HOUSTON: Mahakavi Sri Gurajada Apparao was a renowned poet, writer and social reformer born in 1862 at Rayavaram village, Andhra Pradesh. The lines, ‘Desamante matti kaadoyi, desamante manushuloyi’, from his famous patriotic song, ‘Desamunu Preminchumanna’ , composed in 1910 meant, ‘A country is not made of land; a country is made of its people’. Mahakavi also wrote the first Telugu play, Kanyasulkam, often considered the greatest play in Telugu language that got translated to 40 different languages including Russian. Gurajada Foundation, USA whose mission is to spread Mahakavi’s ‘Sphoorthi’ and philosophy, had organized ‘Gurajada Sphoorthi Utsavam’ a cultural program and essay competitions to celebrate Mahakavi’s 152nd birthday. This memorable event was held on Saturday, October 11, at India House, Houston. Mahakavi’s auspicious program was very appropriately started with melodious rendering of Lord Ganesha by Adarsh Menon, a winner of several music awards.

Several Teacher and professional singers receiving appreciation

‘Swagatam’ by Sangeetshiromani award recipient, Smt. Madhura Sankar’s students invited the audience to enjoy this unique program. With great inspiration from Mahakavi’s philosophy of ‘A country is not made of land; a country is made of its people’, several children and renowned former All India Radio artistes like Sangeet Visharad Smt. Soumya Rege and Smt. Mangala Sane sang patriotic songs from several Indian languages and submitted essays on social reformers of India. Mahakavi’s ‘Desamunu Preminchumana’ that meant ‘ Love Your Country’ and other patriotic songs, ‘Vande Mataram, Ekla Cholo Re, ‘ Bande Utkala Janini’, ‘Bahu Asot Sundar Sampanna’, ‘Hum Honge Kamiyaab’, ‘Ilaya Bharatham Iniya Bharatham’,etc were sung enthusiastically by children and professional artistes. Vidushi Smt Rajarajeshwary Bhat students sang Kannada patriotic song, ‘Bharat Maata’, Versatile artiste, Smt. Mani Sastry, sang Mahakavi’s poem and Sri Devulapalli Sastry’s composition.

Sri Sitaram Ayyagari’s students sang Mahakavi’s beautiful composition and other memorable songs. Smt Pranavi Sadhanala , former TV anchor, along with her students performed a beautiful dance ‘Desam Manade’ which meant that for BharatMaatha all her children are equal that resonated the words of Mahakavi Gurajada. Binshnupur Gharana’s Shamik Boseji and his students sang Tagoreji’s song. Hindi Patriotic song, ‘Chhodo kal ki baaten’, sung by Hindi school students summarized the spirit of Gurajada Foundation’s Utsavam celebrations. Mahakavi’s great granddaughter, Chandralekha Kovvali, spoke eloquently about Mahakavi and his correspondence with Tagoreji , Yates and other literary figures from India and abroad that reflected on the Mahakavi’s respect and passion for all languages. Consul General of India, Shri Harishji, attended the event and enjoyed listening to children sing patriotic songs including Mahakavi’s Desamunu Preminchumana that was melodiously sung by Smt. Manjula Palivela’s students of Silicon Andhra Telugu School.

Sri Harishji delivered a very motivational inspiring speech on this memorable occasion and requested children to understand the meaning of the desabhakthi song’ Desamunu Preminchumana’. Sangeet Natak Academi winner and Artistic Director of Anjali Center for Performing Arts, Dr. Rathna Kumar, was awarded Gurajada Foundation’s prestigious Gurajada Sphoorthi Ratna award for her outstanding contribution to spreading Indian culture and Heritage.

Gurajada Foundation’s (www.gurajada.org) prestigious Gurajada Seva Sphoorthi Award was presented to Dr. Chandrasekhar Gannavarapu for his outstanding service to Gurajada Foundation. The song ‘Hum Honge Kamiyaab’ sung at this event very aptly conveyed the message that all of us will live in peace and make this world a beautiful place to live in.

October 30, 2014
Sutra Dance Theater Reinvents Love with “Krishna”

Photos: Amitava Sarkar, Photography InSight

By Sanchali Basu

HOUSTON: A Malaysian dance troupe with a pure Odissi repertoire – what are the odds? That was what was made possible by the Sutra Dance Theater, which traveled from Malaysia to commence their US and Canada tour in Houston on Oct 26 at the Wortham Center with their production, “Krishna, Love Reinvented”, at the invitation of Samskriti.

It would be an understatement to say that the devotion and dedication demonstrated by a non Hindu dancer, founder/artistic director and choreographer, Datuk Ramli Ibrahim to this purely Hindu temple dance form Odissi was par excellence. Trained in classical ballet, modern dance, and Indian classical dance he put Malaysia on the dance map and is now one of its most prominent dance figures. He has almost single-handedly established Odissi as a widely appreciated dance form in Malaysia. The performance brought to focus that in a world torn apart by religious strife, art can bring people together. It transcended all barriers of religion, geography and language and embodied the liberation of the human spirit with complete abandon, sheerly through love.

The work explored the total identification of the devotee couple (poet Jayadeva and wife Padmavati) with the pastoral god Krishna and his consort Radha. The program started with a Mangala Charanam, an invocatory homage to Lord Krishna. As the group of 8 dancers went through the entire repertoire, the moods, feelings and emotions of the love affair, Rasa (highest emotional state) became a sublime allegory expressing and affirming the highest love the individual soul has for God. The colorful costumes, gorgeous set and well thought out lighting added to the ambiance of the production.

The Sthayi depicted Krishna’s springtime dalliance with the gopis, who were then intoxicated by the scintillating vision of the lord in the Krishna Tandava, and mesmerized by his divine flute playing in the abhinaya piece “Mohane Deli Chahi.” The exact precision of movements, picture perfect coordination and pursuit to perfection of the dancers, are the qualities that place the Sutra Dance theater way above the rest. The dances seemed like poetry in motion as the ethereal movements of the dancers flowed effortlessly and flawlessly to create beautiful statuesque pictures. As they froze and held the beautiful formations to the photographer’s delight, the audience seemed to fall more and more in love with the dancers’ interpretations.

The second half saw the serenading of the gopis by Krishna in Nachante range Sri Hari and a pure dance Pallavi where Krishna replicates himself and is surrounded by gopis. The evening ended with a standing ovation for the dancers and recognition of Ramli Ibrahim by the mayor of Houston, Annise Parker with the presentation of a plaque by Nandita Harish (Consul General P. Harish’s wife). The day was proclaimed as Ramli Ibrahim day and the proclamation was read by Sanjay Ramabhadran. Rathna Kumar, the Artistic director of Samskriti thanked the audience for its support. This program marked the culmination of the wonderful series of programs hosted by Samskriti in its 20th year.

October 30, 2014
Diwali and Govardhan Puja at Gaudiya Matha Temple

HOUSTON: The Sri Govinda Gaudiya Math temple celebrated Diwali last Thursday with celebrations that began soon after the partial Solar eclipse of the sun – an auspicious sign for the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil. Several volunteers had worked tirelessly for two weeks to decorate the temple with lights, flowers, rangoli, and streamers. On Diwali, several devotees participated in the Mangal Aarti at 5:30 AM. The Deities were offered a new, gorgeous blue-colored dress. Their transcendental beauty in this new dress captivated the hearts of all who came for darshans throughout the day. In the evening, the altar was lit with hundreds of multi-colored lights. Several hundred devotees, wearing new beautiful clothes, participated enthusiastically in the aarti filling the temple room with chants of the Holy Names.

The next evening on Friday, hundreds of devotees gathered again to celebrate Govardhan Pooja and Annakut. The program included bhajans, kirtan, aarti, offering of ghee lamps to Lord Damodar and Tulasi Pooja. There was an added treat to the evening: Annakut – the mountain of food. The devotees each brought many different dishes, to offer to Sri Sri Radha Govindaji. Over 1008 different food preparations, representing tastes from Punjab to Tamil Nadu and from Bengal to Gujarat, were offered to Sri Giriraja Govardhan. Everyone circumambulated the Govardhan Hill, singing the glories of the Lord and remembering the pastime of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan Hill and saving His dear devotees from the wrath of Indra.

As described in Srimad Bhagavatam, Indra was upset because upon the advice of Lord Krishna, the Brajavasis (the residents of Vrindavan) had decided to worship Giriraj Govardhan instead of the annual ritual of worshipping Indra. Indra had no idea that this cowherd boy Krishna was in fact the Supreme Lord. Deluded by his false sense of power, Indra decided to lash out at the Brajavasis by pouring heavy rains and flooding and destroying them. The helpless villagers went to Krishna, and surrendered to Him as they had completed faith in Him. Lord Krishna then lifted the Govardhan Hill on the pinky finger of His left hand. All the villagers and the animals took shelter underneath Govardhan Hill which protected them from the heavy rains. This lasted for seven days until Indra finally gave up, bowed down to the Lord, and restored peace. Giriraj Govardhan is Krishna Himself in one form as well as Krishna’s best devotee in another form. He takes the form of a mountain to serve the Lord. He is extremely merciful and famous for fulfilling all the desires. More than that he can give pure love and devotion unto the lotus feet of Lord Krishna for sincere seekers. It is a verdict of the scriptures that even if one offers one grain of rice to Giriraj Govardhan, that person will never be poor in life.

After the aarti, Shri Ravi Puri sang several melodious Krishna bhajans making everyone swoon in ecstasy. The program was concluded with a huge feast that enchanted everyone.

Sri Govinda Gaudiya Math temple (www.sggm.org) is located at 16628 Kieth Harrow Blvd. The temple is located just off Hwy 6 between I-10 and 290, near the Energy Corridor and Katy. The temple is open every day from 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM. The main service is on Sunday evenings from 5 – 7 PM. It includes: kirtan and Hari Katha followed by Aarati and parasadam. Hindi classes as well as Vedic education classes are held for children aged four through eighteen (all classes are conducted in English).

October 30, 2014
Ekal Raises Rs. 1 Crore to Implement Clean India Campaign in Villages

Shyamji Gupta, Himanshu Shah, Ramesh Shah.

OHIO: ‘Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation-USA (EVF-USA)’, recently (Oct. 3-5) hosted an international conference in Cincinnati, Ohio to address various issues facing rural education, hygiene, and integrated development in remote parts of India, where it operates. In opening remarks, Shyamji Gupta, founder of ‘Ekal Movement’ set the tone by challenging the gathering to undertake a new initiative for the rural masses. Inspired by the clarion call for a ‘Swachha-Bharat’ (Clean-India) by P.M. Narendra Modi, Ekal volunteers whole heartedly adopted this campaign to create and implement a strategy to clean the Ekal Villages where 1.5 million children are being nurtured and groomed. The campaign will create awareness and develop sustainable approaches to keep the villages clean. This conference had brought together volunteers, field teams and philanthropists from across US, India and Canada and astoundingly raised Rs. 1 Crore for this purpose.

Sunil Ishairzay of Afghanistan

Spearheading the on-the-spot fundraising efforts Himanshu Shah, CEO, Shah Capital, said “poor sanitation and lack of solid waste management has had tremendous negative impact on the health of Indians all over. It is time we address this issue”. He contributed significant amount of his own monies to the cause and matched donations raised by Ekal. Welcoming this impromptu generosity, Vinod Jhunjhunwala, President of ‘EVF-USA’ said, “while ideas are plenty, India often loses out on implementation. Ekal, with its reach in over 54,000 villages throughout India has wide grass-root network that can effectively implement this cleaning initiative”. Ekal uses education as a primary vehicle to bring holistic development of remote and rural villages. In addition to education, Ekal is working on health, sanitation, agriculture and development. Ajay Singh, Project Coordinator for EVF-USA, informed the gathering about the state-of-the-art approach adopted by ‘Ekal-India’ to administer and monitor various aspects of ‘Ekal’. He further elaborated that the teacher’s and student’s third-party assessment, automated school allocation as well as their ‘google-mapping’ was already underway. The movement has created so much excitement among youth in the U. S. that several college students are going to Ekal villages to study the movement. Recently, Rohan and Anjeli Sharma, brother-sister team, both less than 15 year old, spent three weeks in an Ekal Village, learning how Ekal had impacted villager’s lives. The reciprocal volunteerism of the Ekal model has also caught the eye of the Afghanistan community who feel that this unique model could be beneficial to the tribal-rural villages of Afghanistan. A team from Afghanistan headed by Sunil Ishairzay, visited India, last year, with the sole intention of studying and replicating Ekal education model in Afghanistan.

Several innovative solutions to a range of issues including the use of technology for education and the micro-rural entrepreneurship were also discussed. In several villages, solar energy is already being used by the villagers for life’s basic necessities with help from ‘Ekal’. At the conference, Ekal also addressed the national tragedy of the floods affecting the Kashmir valley. Ekal USA has earmarked $150,000 for these flood victims. In short, Ekal Vidyalaya, the largest grass-root movement undertaken by NRIs and Indians is playing a key role in the lives of neglected masses for their self-sustenance and empowerment

October 30, 2014
Club 65 Celebrates Diwali

By Dr. Jaseem Pasha

HOUSTON: The day was Sunday, October 11, the Senior Houstonians of Club 65 had their monthly ‘Lunch and Learn’ function at the Bay land Community Center in Houston.

The Conference room was thronged with seniors of diverse professional background, including engineers, physicians, attorney, real estate brokers, poets, architects and you name it.

Although Club 65 is only about two years old, founded under the aegis of Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH), this non-profit organization has already won the hearts of Senior Houstonians and the membership is increasing by the month.

After announcing the whole years’ program of Club 65, Latafath Hussain, the President of Indian Muslims Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH), then introduced the new President of Club 65, Paru McGuire to the members.
Paru McGuire, who is one of the few founding members of Club 65, then introduced the two speakers of the day to the audience.

The theme for the October meeting was ‘Diwali’, the ancient triumph of good over evil, India’s most important festival, making it an opportunity to know and learn a little about the celebration of the festival of twinkling lights, which was excellently explained and presented by Hema Chandrashekar. Not only did she talk about the Festival of Lights, which is Diwali, but linked it to Sanatan Dharma, which is commonly known as Hinduism.

The next presentation was “How to heal yourself” by M. Sadiq Ali, M.S., Certified Nutrition & Wellness Consultant, et al., of “The Transformation Studio”. His lecture was very informative about the benefits of eating whole raw foods and minimally processed meals that could prevent chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, cardiac disease, stroke arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, depression, autism, ADHD, depression and many more.

Sadiq Ali and his staff also provided a guide for cooking and eating foods, which destoxify the body, mind and spirit. He and his team brought along a variety of delicious herbal and organic food items to sample. As expected, the presentation triggered a lot of queries from the members.

Lunch was sponsored and made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor. It was served in accordance to the Diwali theme of the month consisting of a traditional vegetarian menu including Shrikhand and Puri, which is regarded as a specialty of Diwali. Everyone enjoyed the experience of tasting the different variety of food and the healthy lifestyle sampling.

As usual, it was a great success, receiving lots of positive feedback from the large gathering of seniors.

The meeting ended with happy faces thanking the new elected officers of the Club 65, including Paru McGuire (President), Rahat Kalle (First Vice President), Hatim Kanorwala (Second Vice President ) and Noorjahan Upadhya ( Jt.Secretary), Sudhir Mathuria ( Secretary) and Farida Jinnah (Treasurer)

October 30, 2014
Namadwaar to Celebrate Bhoomi Pooja with Music and Mass Prayer

MANVEL,TX: Global Organization for Divinity’s Namadwaar Prayer House will perform bhoomi pooja (groundbreaking ceremony) for its new prayer house building on November 8, Saturday at its current location, 3642 Bailey Ave, Manvel TX (Pearland area).

The bhoomi pooja, followed by prayers by Houston temples and organizations, will be conducted from 7:30 to 9 AM. In the evening, celebrations for the auspicious occasion will begin at 4 pm with “Pibare Nama Rasam” a musical offering of songs on the greatness of the Divine Name composed by various saints, by Swara Raga Laya music ensemble led by Vidushi Smt. Rajarajeshwary Bhat.

This performance will be followed at 5 pm by a Mass Prayer led by Sri Ramanujamji, disciple of His Holiness Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji. Prayers with the Name of God are extremely powerful, as experienced by thousands of people across the world. During the Mass Prayer, Ramanujamji will share his Guru’s vision of calling attention to the power of the Divine Names to all those in need of prayer. His inspiring talk will be followed by group chanting of the Mahamantra for the heartfelt prayers of all those present.

The event is free and open to all. A simple dinner will be provided after the evening program.

His Holiness Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji constantly advocates the efficacy of prayers with the Divine Names and emphasizes that divinity manifests itself where the Divine Names are chanted, thus making congregational chanting very effective and fulfilling. Moreover it is universal across faiths, brings people together, spreads the fragrance of love and brings about inner transformation. This is the basis on which the global Namadwaar initiative was started by Sri Swamiji in 2006. There are over 20 Namadwaars across the world now, which reverberate with the “Hare Rama….Hare Krishna…” Mahamantra. The Houston Namadwaar was the first Namadwaar to be established outside India, in Feb 2010, and is currently the only one in the USA.

Global Organization for Divinity is a nonprofit charity organization serving the Houston area since 2007. With the support of the community we have grown every year by giving back to the community through – umpteen number of prayers, regular children/youth enrichment programs and camps, 6 major cultural events, numerous folk puppet shows and other smaller cultural programs, 3 completely free health fairs with about 300 people attending every year (next one is on Nov 15th from 8 am till 1pm in Manvel), several other community events such as food drives, clothes drives, educational supplies’ drives, special-need school supplies, donations to other charity organizations such as Pearland Neighborhood Center, Forgotten Angels, Adult Reading Center, Search Homeless Services, Houston Area Parkinson Society and others.

It is only natural that with this immense growth in our service, we are now in need of a bigger building to serve the community even better.

For further information about the event, about GOD activities or Namadwaar, or if you are interested in supporting this noble and divine cause financially or in kind, contact 281-402-6585 or houston.god@godivinity.org. To view the event invitation, visit www.godivinity.org.

October 30, 2014
Dipavali Puja: Celebrations Lit with Chinmaya Spirit

Acaryas Gaurangbhai and Darshanaben Nanavaty, the priest of Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya, Sri Ganeshji, perfoming Laksmi puja. Photos by Jayesh Mistry

By Padmashree Rao

HOUSTON: Dipavali has a greater meaning to the Indians who have left the shores of India. Beyond the sparkling lights, the smiling faces, the colorful Indian clothes, the weekend get-togethers, the enthusiastic wishes, and all the joyful celebrations, the immensely popular festival is a symbol of cultural and spiritual identity in lands foreign and adopted.

Where it is not that easy to place rows of oil lamps around the homes, where it is difficult to light firecrackers out on streets, where the workaday routine tends to overshadow the popular Hindu festival of lights, the Dipavali puja becomes a significant event every year. Transporting the glowing spirit of Dipavali across the oceans, the annual Dipavali puja in many mission centers of North America is a cherished Chinmaya tradition.

True to that, at Chinmaya Prabha Houston, on Oct.19, the magic of Dipavali unraveled with greater meaning to become a luminous celebration of social and spiritual cheer. From months before, the volunteers of the festival committee had begun preparations for the puja that united more than five hundred families in two sessions. The announcements, emails, and e-brochures, invited all the Chinmaya families to gather together that Sunday morning in their beloved Chinmaya family home, Chinmaya Prabha.

And, the young and the old came with eagerness. They came dressed in their festive best, carrying their beautifully decorated puja plates, the colorful flowers, their shining lamps for arati, and other puja essentials. When more than a thousand people sat together in rows inside Chinmaya Smriti hall and Saraswati Nilayam that morning for the Dipavali puja, it was not just the external aesthetic beauty of the whole celebration that captured the imagination. What arrested everyone’s thoughts was the way in which the puja filled hearts with light and love.

In his annual address, Acarya Gaurangbhai Nanavaty welcomed everyone to reflect on the true meaning of the varied traditional celebrations of Dipavali. On Dhan Teras, and during Lakshmi puja later in the week, while praying for material prosperity, the Acarya asked all to also pray for the wealth of good values to enrich all life. On Naraka Chaturdasi, when the darkness of evil is destroyed by the light of goodness, we must recognize that Dharma always brings meaningful victory. Celebrating Dipavali as the victory of Lord Ram over the unrighteous Ravana brings to light the symbolism that pure joy is the very essence of a dharmic life. And, family is celebrated on the occasion of Bhai Dhuj in some communities.

The Acarya brought attention to the prayers done during the Dipavali puja – every year, the Lakshmi Ashtottra Shatanamavali (108 names of the Goddess Lakshmi) endows devotees with both material and spiritual upliftment; and Visnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Lord Visnu) is a divinely effective way of recognizing the Omnipresent, Omnipotent, and Omniscient God in the world of names and forms.

Along with ardent prayers, Dipavali is also a time to give thanks and usher in a new year of hope and new resolve. It is the tradition of Chinmaya Mission Houston to offer heartfelt gratitude to the Chinmaya Guru Parampara, which has given spiritual direction to secular lives, especially far away from the native soil of India.

Thus, selfless prayers and deep gratitude pervaded the entire Dipavali puja which was expertly performed by Sri Ganeshji, priest of the Saumyakasi Sivalaya. At the end of the puja, every family walked to offer pranams to God and Guru; each family exchanged a moment of affection and gratitude with the Acaryas Gaurangbhai and Darshanaben, in the presence of the exquisitely adorned idols of Sri Mahavisnu and Goddess Mahalakshmi. It was then that central theme of Dipavali shone bright, the theme of shared happiness, high ideals, and hearts filled with love and hope.

The Dipavali celebration this year in Houston was tuned to greater heights because of a special musical presentation by Chinmaya Nada Bindu, the Chinmaya Gurukul of Performing Arts, on the evening of Oct.19. Sri Himanshu Nanda and Smt. Pramodini Rao, the directors of Chinmaya Naada Bindu, accompanied by Sri Anutosh Degaria, elevated the Houston audience; art, artist and audience were transported to a divine realm where the ‘sneharanjani’ of Himanshuji’s bansuri and the soulful bhajans of Pramodiniji entranced and enchanted; it was no mere entertainment. To revel in such music was truly a memorable Dipavali gift.

“Between the routine and the urgent, one should not forget the important,” says Pujya Guruji Swami Tejomayananda. Every year, the importance of Dipavali shines brighter when illuminated with the Chinmaya spirit!

For further information on Chinmaya Mission Houston and Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya and, its activities visit www.chinmayahouston.org or Call Jay Deshmukh 832 541 0059 or Bharati Sutaria 281-933-0233

October 30, 2014
Fun Daal-bati Picnic by Madhya Pradesh Mitra Mandal

Photo: Navin Mediwala

HOUSTON: Madhya Pradesh Mitra Mandal (MPMM) organized its 7th annual Daal-Bati picnic on Sunday, Octover 26, at Bear Creek Park, in Houston, Texas. It was attended by approx. 200 people who enjoyed fresh made Daal-Bati, Poha-Sev, Jalebi, Jiraman and garma-garam Chai during this daylong event. The feeling of togetherness, the bonding between families and friends and the fun atmosphere made this gathering quite unique and entertaining. Everyone joined hands to volunteer in various areas: cooking batis, serving food or performing on stage.

After new families made introduction, everyone played Picture Housie (Tambola) which was prepared by one of the members. This was about places in MP or personalities who belong to MP. Everyone got to know interesting facts from MP while enjoying the quizzes. Weather being perfect for outdoors, several members took on sporting avatars to play Cricket and other games.

One of the highlight of the event was live message delivered via phone by Shri Kailash Vijayvargiya, Cabinet Minister from Madhya Pradesh who handles Housing and Environment as well as the urban development portfolio. He felicitated MPMM for keeping roots of India alive in USA and also shared of great progress possibilities of India under leadership of our Prime Minister. This live Phone Call was coordinated by Jitendra Muchhal of New York, who also belongs to MP and an avid Daal-Bati fan.

For the past couple of years, response to this picnic has been so overwhelming that RSVP had to be closed 2 weeks before the event, to ensure that picnic is managed well by the volunteers.

MP Mitra Mandal is an informal community group made up of people who have come from Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh to Texas. These states reflect “unity in diversity” in true sense which is visible amongst the people who attend MPMM events in Houston. This group was started by Ashish Bhandari and Nikhil Jain in Houston in the year 2002. Today it’s grown to over 200 families belonging to various cities like Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Bilaspur, Raipur, Gwalior etc., who are also registered on the group’s website http://www.mp.abindore.com .

This unique Annual event has been covered by various media groups in Houston as well as in India in the past.

October 30, 2014
What a Leader Does

By Rohan Chaudhry

HOUSTON: On Saturday, October 18, YLDP students toured the Houston Food Bank and listened to its President and CEO, Brian Greene, speak. The topic of the day’s YLDP session was What Leaders Really Do, and it was aimed at defining what makes a leader different from a manager or a boss.

According to Greene, a leader is someone who can not only turn challenges into opportunities, but also ensure that the environment in which everyone is working remains stable. Greene emphasized the importance of a leader’s communication, as it allows us to better our surroundings and ourselves. The ability to receive criticism and compromise ideas is what makes a leader paramount in any group, be it of a board of directors or of students working on a project. Greene attributed his accomplishments to that ability as it allowed him to constantly keep an open mind throughout his time with the Food Bank. It widened his vision to embrace change and strive to make the greatest impact possible, which is what led to his push for the Food Bank to provide proper, nutritious meals rather than high-calorie junk foods, to his push for the Food Bank to donate extra foods to animal shelters rather than throw them away, and to his push for the Food Bank to install solar panels and recycled materials within its building.

When recalling his time as a simple Food Bank volunteer and as the head of the New Orleans Food Bank when Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf, Greene reminded students of the value of ethics and a good character. His advice to act on good intentions rather than personal gain instilled within us a sort of reassurance in ourselves. Sure, our trip opened our eyes to the inner workings of America’s largest Food Bank, but, more than that, it opened the vault to an unforgettable lesson of how we can build ourselves to better serve our community as the leaders of tomorrow.

October 30, 2014
Arya Samaj Greater Houston Celebrates Diwali

By Sanjana Kapoor & Yash Bindal

HOUSTON: Arya Samaj celebrated Diwali on Saturday, October 25. This jam-packed event was enjoyed by all, and the evening’s festivities were filled with good humor, friends, laughter and light.

Arya Samaj’s Diwali celebrations started Saturday evening with beautiful performances in the main hall. Next came the puja and havan. For the final portion of the event, everyone went outside. And what a sight it was to see! Spread throughout the school grounds, were rows of twinkling lights among which were stalls of games and delicious ethnic food. The air was bright, laughter rang through the air and the sweet smell of sweets enticed everyone. People milled around seeking out friends and acquaintances and spreading the good wishes of Diwali. Some sat at the thoughtfully provided chairs and tables eating the delicious food or sipping on hot tea.

There were games for the children, such as the ring toss, with prizes for the winners. There were chances to win big prizes through the raffle tickets. Additionally, there were mehendi (henna) and face paint stalls, which attracted young and old alike.

Next came one of the most favorite parts of Diwali celebrations: glorious fireworks. The fireworks were launched into the sky, and went out with loud bangs, scattering across the sky in a multitude of sparkling hues. The colors were bright, blazing and fiery – it truly was a spectacular festival of lights. Soon after people with firework tickets were given their own personal firework packages. You could hear the snap and crackle of the fireworks sizzling all around. Kids shouted with delight at the bright colors and everyone could feel the excitement in the air.

This Diwali celebration was definitely a memorable event that everyone enjoyed. Thanks to the selfless Arya Samaj volunteers and youth from the Arya Yuvak Mandal, all the planned activities went of without a hitch, and the events were conducted in a timely manner. Everyone who came to celebrate, went away happy and pleased.

Arya Samaj Greater Houston wishes everyone a very Happy Diwali, and a very prosperous year to come!

Arya Samaj Greater Houston is located at 14375 Schiller Road, Houston, TX 77082, (www.aryasamajhouston.org or Tel. 281-752-0100) and conducts Satsang every Sunday from 10 AM to 12 Noon. The DAV Sanskriti School is held every Sunday during the Satsang hours. Yoga, Sanskrit and Upanishads classes are held twice a week at ASGH. Contact Dev Mahajan at 713-468-4339 or Shekhar Agrawal at 281-242-8280 or Bhushan Verma at 713-504-2707 for any information regarding ASGH or its schools and services.

October 30, 2014
MassMutual Honors Diwali and Business Tradition of Chopda Pujan

No-Cost Seminars Help Business Owners Secure Their Futures and Protect the Next Generation

SPRINGFIELD: Almost three million Asian Indians in the United States celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, on Oct. 23. For the more than 300,000 Asian-Indian owned firms* in the U.S., the holiday takes on an added dimension, as the celebration marks the beginning of a new business year. To help business owners prepare for the New Year ahead, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) is offering a series of free, no-obligation business seminars in five cities across the country this Diwali.

Massmutual event in Edison, New Jersey held on October 29.

In a special Diwali ritual for businesses known as Chopda Pujan, new account books are opened and blessed. Business owners use this time to reflect on the past year while looking ahead to new opportunities for prosperity and wealth. It is said the goddess of wealth, known as Lakshmi, visits the homes of devotees on this day, and lamps light the way to welcome her.

From left: Adam Segal, Nimesh Trivedi, Nadya Amin, Zaheda, Mitesh Patel. MassMutual sponsored Atlanta Diwali Event.

A MassMutual study** found that although 77 percent of Asian Indian business owners believe financial planning for their business is very important, only 43 percent are concerned about who will run their businesses if they or another owner leaves, becomes disabled or dies; only 46 percent have a formal retirement plan.

“Entrepreneurial businesses are vital to our growing economic recovery, so it is concerning that so many business owners seem to be sacrificing their own and their family’s financial future,” says Nimesh Trivedi, Asian-Indian Market lead at MassMutual. “With help, business owners can look past the seemingly overwhelming day-to-day demands of running their businesses and establish and meet their long-term financial goals.”

From left: Nimesh Trivedi, Lalit Jallan, Adam Segal and Vikesh Amin. MassMutual sponsored Houston Diwali Event.

To help Asian Indian business owners open their new books this Diwali and plan for a prosperous new year, MassMutual is offering a series of free video-based seminars featuring stories shared by real business owners. The vignettes explore critical business planning topics, such as passing ownership on from one generation to the next, preparing for the unexpected, the death of an owner, retaining key employees, and proper estate and retirement planning.

Seminars addressing these topics critical to Asian Indian business owners were presented in the following cities across the country this Diwali:
Houston, Oct. 14
Atlanta: Oct. 18
San Jose, Calif.: Oct. 24
Edison, N.J.: Oct. 29

The Seminar in Chicago has been scheduled for November 6, 2014

For more information on the multi-city business owner seminar tour, contact Nimesh Trivedi, 413.744.1244. For more information on planning for your businesses’ and families’ financial futures, visit massmutual.com/asianindian

*2007 Survey of Business Owners Summaries of Findings, U.S. Census Bureau. This information is the most current data available.

**MassMutual’s Business Owner Perspectives: 2011 Insights in an Uncertain Economy, conducted by GfK Custom Research North America for Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), 2011.

About MassMutual
Founded in 1851, MassMutual is a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policy owners. The company has a long history of financial strength and strong performance, and although dividends are not guaranteed, MassMutual has paid dividends to eligible participating policy owners consistently since the 1860s. With whole life insurance as its foundation, MassMutual provides products to help meet the financial needs of clients, such as life insurance, disability income insurance, long term care insurance, retirement/401(k) plan services, and annuities. In addition, the company’s strong and growing network of financial professionals helps clients make good financial decisions for the long-term.

MassMutual Financial Group is a marketing name for Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and its affiliated companies and sales representatives. MassMutual is headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts and its major affiliates include: Babson Capital Management LLC; Baring Asset Management Limited; Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC; The First Mercantile Trust Company; MassMutual International LLC; MML Investors Services, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC; OppenheimerFunds, Inc.; and The MassMutual Trust Company, FSB.

For more information, visit www.massmutual.com or find MassMutual on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+ and Pinterest.

October 30, 2014
Mama’s Punjabi Recipes: Sabudana di Kheer (Tapioca Pudding)

Whereas chawal di kheer (rice pudding), along with ras malai (cheese in sweetened cream) and gulab jamun (syrup rose dumplings) have become some of the main desserts in many Indian restaurants, the sabudana kheer (tapioca pudding) has not. It is equally as easy, simple and inexpensive to make as kheer. I think the main reason is most restaurants don’t make it in the tasty way that it can be appreciated by the public. And just like chawal di kheer, the sabudana kheer must not come in a thin milky syrup, but must be made properly: thick and sprinkled with iliachi for taste.

Sabudana is a starchy substance extracted from the stems of ago palm trees, and then processed into small, circular pellets, which are sometimes called pearls. It is not a low-calorie food but is used to an energy-boosting ingredient in soups, puddings, side dishes and main entrees. Sabudana is high in carbohydrates, with 86 grams of carbs in each 100 gm serving.

Sabudana kheer is easily made with sugar and cardamom in thickened milk. It is prepared for festivals and many special Hindu occasions though it is especially popular during the navratri time (nine days prior to Dusserah or Ramanavami) because it is made with sago and not grains like rice or wheat, which are avoided by devout people during those days.

Sabudana kheer has become popular as a chic dessert at weddings where the thickened variety is presented in small earthen dishes and even with a small piece of sona ka varak (gold film).

The secret to a tasty dish, prepared much faster, is to soak the sabudana much longer in the water, and to make sure the milk is thicker when you mix it in. If you use the large pellet sabudana, then you should soak the pellets in longer.

Ingredients:
4 cup doodh (milk) – whole is best, but low-fat will do too
1 cup sabudana (sago or tapioca)
¼ cup chinni (sugar)
¼ tsp iliachi powder (cardamom powder)

Directions:
1. Pour the sabudana in a bowl full of water, cover and let it soak for two hours so that it swells up.

2. Pour the milk in a saucepan or small pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to make sure the milk does not stick to the pot, and let it thicken up a little.

3. Pour the sabudana through a strainer to drain the water, then pour it into the milk and stir continuously for 10 minutes but not more so that the kheer does not get too thick.

4. Now, add the sugar and mix thoroughly. Sprinkle with the crushed cardamom powder.

5. Thicker sabudana kheer tastes best. It can be served hot, but most people prefer to eat it cold, so refrigerate for an hour or two before serving.

Shakuntla Malhotra is a skilled cook of Punjabi dishes made in the old-fashioned style that she learnt as a young woman in her ancestral home in Lyallpur, India before it became part of Pakistan after the Partition in 1947. People have often admired her cooking for its simplicity and taste that comes with each mouthful. Even in her mid-eighties, she continues to cook daily and agreed to share some of her delectable Punjabi recipes.

October 30, 2014
Diwali Celebrations at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

By BAPS Correspondent

STAFFORD: Many years ago Rupal Patel recalls reading comic books on Ramayan in India. She remembers that anytime she would have a question, her grandmother would narrate the journey of Bhagwan Ram and Sita by memory.

She was always intrigued when hearing about when Ram would triumph over Ravan and bring Sita back to Ayodhya. She felt a sense of peace and restoration of balance. After each narration, Rupal would take away a new moral and apply it to her life. It is with this spirit that millions of Hindus celebrate the festival of Diwali every year.

Diwali program started with a vedic sholk by a group of 10 year old kids

Now that she lives in Sugarland, Texas and thousands of miles from India she misses Diwali and its atmosphere. She misses the assortments of sweets or mithai during Diwali. In order to sustain those memories, for the last 10 years, she and her family attends the celebrations at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Stafford.

For the last two weekends, Diwali has been celebrated in grand scale at the Mandir. On October 11, children of all ages got to participate in a special Kid’s Diwali Carnival. Each child took part in a special sabha or assembly followed by carnival rides. The day ended with each child lighting their own divos and participating in a special grand Diwali arti on the Mandir.

Unity in Diversity Diwali Program highlighted India’s culture, music and language at BAPS

The celebrations continued at the Mandir on Saturday, October 18 with an outdoor Diwali program titled “Unity in Diversity.” The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was beautifully lit with orange, white and green representing the Indian flag. Along with Rupal’s family, several hundred visitors were welcomed with beautiful rangolis and divos. The Diwali program highlighted India’s diverse culture, language, music, character and most importantly unity.

Throughout the program a special laser show was displayed lighting up the dark skies with beautiful colors. Rupal Patel’s daughter was amazed when the fireworks started to pop at the end of the program. Each visitor left with the sentiments of being proud Indians and happy citizens of the community in which they live in.

Ferris Wheel ride at the BAPS kids diwali carnival

In an age where traditions and morals are challenging to maintain, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj invests time to build the roots of ancient rituals for generations. On the surface, Diwali is the most colorful holiday with fireworks, rangolis, and beautiful decorations, variety of mithais, fancy flowers and lit divos. But the true essence of Diwali is an internal journey of dispelling darkness in the forms of ego, anger, jealously, greed, and envy and invoking the light to bring in positive virtues of patience, contentment, compassion and inner-stability. Pramukh Swami Maharaj is a living example of positive virtues that we can strive towards with sincere efforts. Through introspection at this auspicious time, we can overcome our negative virtues and bring out the light from within.

Crowd enjoying the Diwali program at BAPS

Rupal Patel left this Diwali with the hope that the coming year will bring joy and peace to her family and instill moral values for her children to pass onto coming generations. Not only was she able to be a spectator of the beautiful colors of Diwali, she left with a sense of ease by applying virtues displayed by Pramukh Swami Maharaj into her life.

About BAPS
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through social and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots. Its 3,300 international centers support these character-building activities. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.

About Pramukh Swami Maharaj
His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, has inspired millions of people across the world to lead a God-centered, morally pure life. As the present leader of BAPS, Pramukh Swami Maharaj has traveled extensively, emphasizing the importance of family harmony, community service and spiritual progress. He embodies the essence of Hindu life. His compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity has touched many world religious and national leaders.

For further information visit www.baps.org

October 24, 2014
The Grand Deepavali Bazaar at Sri Meenakshi Temple

Erin Asprec,CEO Memorial Hermann Southeast, Mayor of Pearland Tom Reid, Joanne Barrett, Chief Nursing officer Kindred Hospital, Dr. Ramesh Patel (back) and MTS Chair Dr. Vaduganathan. Photos: Nandhu Radhakrishnan

PEARLAND: Sri Meenakshi Temple looked extraordinarily vibrant starting from the daybreak on Saturday, October 18 with the morning Suprabhadam to welcome Sri Venkateswara and Sri Lakshmi to the beautiful dawn. The festive look of the temple with colorful lights, huge tents and filled parking lots were all indicative of a grand celebration. Deepavali (Diwali) literally means Festival of Lights with an ancient message to erase darkness of ignorance with the light of knowledge.

Sri Mahalakshmi Rathothsavam at MTS Diwali on Saturday, October 18.

A feature of the festivities is the free community Health fair (running 19th year) and was inaugurated by dignitaries (Erin Asprec, CEO Memorial Hermann Southeast hospital, Mayor Tom Reid and Joanne Barrett, Chief Nursing officer, Kindred Hospital). Kindred Hospital and their staff provided all the blood tests. Dr. Nirmala Kethineni of Cypress Spring Family clinic provided Flu shots (either free or heavily subsidized price). Free tests and general medical checkup was conducted. Dr. Ramesh Patel gave lectures on vegetarian diet, stress management and cardiac risk screening. Temple chairman and coordinator of the Health Fair Dr. P. Vaduganathan thanked the Health professionals and volunteers.

Kids Carnival at MTS Diwali Bazaar 2014

Devotees thronged all day with families offering prayers; by noon, the temple premises had turned into a little India. The choices of delicious food items provided by the vendors, art competitions, facial paintings and the carnival games and a shiny Red Fire truck kept the children excitingly engaged.

The Spectacular Fireworks at the MTS Diwali Bazaar (Ratham in foreground)

Many area merchants had their display of beautiful items for sale – ornaments, jewels, clothes, sarees, gift items, paintings, handicrafts, imported art work, ayurvedic medicine, just to name a few. Information booths were set up to promote valuable services and innovative educational materials.

Standing room only at MTS Diwali bazaar with over 4000 visitors

The variety of entertainment demonstrated the wealth of culture in the Indian community living in Greater Houston area. While the children entertained the crowd with their impressive talents, the outstanding classical dance performance by Krithika Subrahmanian and group entertained the audience packed in the Kalyanamandapam.

By sunset, an elaborate set up was made by the priests for the traditional Lakshmi puja; this was preceded with the Diwali parade, where MTS was joined by Namadwar and ISKCON. The dedicated priest of MTS inspired the devotees with Veda manthras and pushpa archana. The utsava murthy of Sri Lakshmi was taken out on the majestic silver chariot pulled by hundreds of devotees with thousands assembled all around the temple to have a darshan of this auspicious scene. The exhilarating sound of Chenda Melam led the Rathotsavam.

The crowd rejoiced in the spectacular firework, which was followed by Garba with live music. The mood was just exhilarating till the end.

We thank the volunteers and employees of MTS for organizing such a flawless festival year after year for two decades. They deserve congratulations for a meticulous job well done with the support of many benevolent well-wishers and supporters. We pray to Sri Meenakshi, Sri Sundareswara, Sri Padmavathi and Sri Venkateswara for a year of happiness and welfare to all.

October 24, 2014