Yezidi brothers Rasheed and Dawood participating in the Diwali Arti with the local Hindu leaders Vijay Pallod, Swapan Dhairyawan and Rajiv Bhavsar.
By Achalesh Amar
HOUSTON: The Yezidi – Hindu Coalition efforts on raising awareness about the humanitarian crisis faced by Yezidi people in northern Iraq have gained momentum over last three weeks. The group comprises of distinguished members from both Yezidi and Hindu communities in USA and Canada, and has itself has grown from 24 to 138 members in this short span of time.
It may be worth recalling that ever since ISIS (Islamic State) laid siege on Northern Iraq in August 2014, one of the holiest places for Yezidis – Mt Sinjar – has seen many tragic and miserable days. The community which once boasted of 23 million practitioners has been reduced to close to a million at the moment. Between August 2014 and now, over 500,000 Yezidis have been displaced; around 2000 Yezidi men massacred and close to 7000 men, women and children have been kidnapped and/or enslaved.
The efforts of bringing Yezidis and Hindus started in July 2014 with the establishment of Yezidi Sanatan Dharma Society (YSDS) and later bolstered by Yezidi – Hindu Coalition. Sewa International played its part by helping bring the two communities together, by inviting Yezidi brothers and sisters to Raksha Bandhan celebrations in Canada.
About 200 Yezidis from all over U.S., supported by the Hindu community, joined hands for a demonstration at White House, Washington DC on Oct 24, to make an urgent plea for the U.S. intervention to halt the murderous ISIS campaign of forced conversion, enslavement, and genocide of Yezidi men, women, and children in the Sinjar area of northern Iraq. A Yezidi delegation, led by their supreme spiritual leader Baba Sheikh, went to Murugan Temple in Washington DC to offer prayers and meet and thank the local Hindu leadership there. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the spiritual leader of Art of Living, also met the Yezidi delegation in Chicago and assured them of all possible help. Tulsi Gabbard was also present at the occasion. The Hindu leadership in Houston invited local Yezidis for the big Diwali event and the same warmth was extended at many other cities throughout USA and Canada.
As a result of the pressure created by Yezidi-Hindu Coalition, the white house stepped up its offensive against ISIS and also issued a statement reiterating United States commitment to the safety and security of Yezidi people. http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/10/31/statement-nsc-spokesperson-bernadette-meehan-deputy-national-security-ad is the direct link to the statement.
Over next couple of months, the coalition intends to conduct fund raising all over USA to help with the humanitarian relief work on the ground and requests the support from all right thinking people who believe in Humanity. Here are the two links for Donation:
http://www.sewausa.org/files/uploads/2014_Diwali_SewaUSA.html SEWA INTERNATIONAL
https://secure.iahv.org/donations.aspx?ref=0 IAHV (associated with ART of Living Foundation)
There are many variations in the ingredients that you can use to make khichdi, just as there are many types of paranthas. It all depends on your taste and also the foods you ate while growing up. Though khichdi is basically made from chawal (rice) and dal (lentils), its popularity among many families comes from the simplicity and ease with which it can be prepared. It is a favorite of many rice-eaters, many of whom like it made with more water so that it is thin and runny.
Another reason is that khichdi is a comfort food to which you can easily add extra flavor with dahi (yogurt) and aachars (pickles). The whole eating experience is very informal and familiar. What’s more, at the end, there aren’t that many plates to wash!!
Khichdi is usually made with moong dal because it is easily digestible and has high carbohydrate content. But it can just as easily be made with other dals too like urad (black dal) or channa (yellow dal), depending on your taste and the texture you want. Punjabis who are accustomed to eating mah-channe di dal sometimes prefer khichdi with channa dal.
And for many young people, especially those living outside India, who aren’t familiar with preparing Indian dishes and think it is too time consuming to make, khichdi is a quick and easy primer for learning the first steps of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
2 cup basmati chawal (Basmati rice)
1 cup channa dal (skinless split channa lentils)
6 cups pani (water)
2 tbspn olive oil
1 tspn jeera (cumin)
4 laung (cloves)
2 sticks dal chinni (cinnamon) – broken into smaller pieces
1 tspn garam masala
Spices: namak (salt) – to your taste
Directions:
1. Place the channa dal in a bowl and wash it thoroughly in cold water then let it soak for 30 minutes. Do the same with the rice and put it aside.
2. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil over high heat. When it starts to boil, drain the water from the channa dal and pour it into the pot.
3. Cover and let the dal boil for only 10 minutes, then take it off the heat and run the dal through a strainer, but don’t throw away the water, catch it in a bowl for use later.
4. Place a large pot over medium heat, pour in the oil then add the jeera and stir till the smell comes out.
5. Drain the water from the rice and add to the pot and mix thoroughly. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Add the channa dal, then throw in the laung, dal chinni and salt to taste and cover on low heat.
7. After 5 minutes, add the saved water from draining the dal, mix thoroughly and let it cook under low heat for 10 minutes.
8. When the rice and dal appear to be nicely mixed together then turn off the heat, cover and let it sit for 10 minutes. Do not stir often while cooking.
9. Sprinkle the top of the khichdi with garam masala and serve while still hot. This dish cooks like a pilau and tastes good with aamb da achaar (mango pickle) and some plain yogurt too.
MAMA’S TIP OF THE WEEK
CLEANING HARD TO REMOVE STAINS FROM POTS AND PANS
Cooking Indian dishes can often be hard on pots, pans and other dishes, leaving stains and hard to remove residue on the sides and bottom of these utensils. Most people usually scrape the surfaces with a rough edge or a hard sponge, but these can leave scrapes and scratches on the pots.
There are two ways to try to clean stubborn residues and stains. You can try to immerse the pots in hot water with a cup of white vinegar in it. And to clean the insides, fill with water, then let it boil over medium heat for a few minutes with a cup of white vinegar or lemon, then remove and let it sit for a while before dumping the water and then try scrubbing with Ajax and sponge off.
If all else fails, try to scrub the stain and residues with a wet Brillo pad and then let it stand for a while before continuing to sponge off with dish washing liquid.
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.
The Board of Directors of the India Culture Center along with the Board of Trustees at the Donor Appreciation Dinner held on Saturday, November 1 at India House. Photo: Jawahar Malhotra
Click here for photo collage
By Jawahar Malhotra and Vanshika Vipin
HOUSTON: In the four decades that the India Culture Center has been around in the Bayou City, it has focused on bringing together a diverse and growing Indian community, which has mushroomed, into multiple groups with varying agendas. Trying several approaches, even when it has been sometimes hampered by dissenting views, the ICC has struck true to its roots in bringing culture to the masses by attracting all area wide organizations under its vision of a unifying umbrella to make sure that the spark of connection to the Motherland stays lit.
The Donor Appreciation Dinner that the ICC held this past Saturday, November 1 at India House featured a live musical program by Mahalakshmi Krishnan, Hardik Jani, Kamaal Haji, and Darshak Thakkar. Photo: Vanshika Vipin
That was the essence of the Donor Appreciation Dinner that the ICC held this past Saturday, November 1 at India House, as the Directors and Trustees of the organization welcomed and serenaded its major donors with an elegantly laid out banquet hall and a live musical program by Mahalakshmi Krishnan and Hardik Jani. Their backup band featured Kamaal Haji, a self-taught musician, on the synthesizer, and the energetic drummer Darshak Thakkar whose Krishna Sounds provided the sound system. The event was catered by Daawat, whose co-owner, Mahesh Shah was attentive to the roomful of guests.
From left: Chief Trustee Swapan Dhairyawan, Parul Fernandes, Ketki Shah from TravelGuzs, and ICC President Charlie Patel.
They were welcomed by ICC Director Dr. Raj Bhalla, who can never resist telling a funny joke or two, and President Charlie Patel who announced next year’s Republic Day event set for January 31, followed by Chief Trustee Swapan Dhairyawan; all of whom echoed the same sentiments of the ICC’s inclusiveness and legacy of community service, notably the Indian Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations, which are its two signature events.
“The Donor Appreciation is tantamount to a Gala that the ICC holds every two years”, explained Dhairyawan before yielding the floor to the musical program. Years ago, the ICC used to hold an annual celebratory dinner in various settings, most notably the elegant and colorful one at the Conrad Hilton at the University of Houston during the Presidency of Dr. Susan Jacob in the mid ‘90s. The ICC pulled out all stops to add the same elegance for this event, replete with satin tablecloths, covered and bowed chairs, centerpieces and a small, dice-dotted white goodie bag.
Elegantly laid out banquet hall.
A slide presentation highlighted the ICC’s major events through 2014 and later a live auction was held to generate funds from bids on eight donated items, two of which were Tanjore gold-foil paintings by Houston’s resident artist Anju Mittal and Rajiv Bhavsar and the rest a picture made of 3,500 pins by Ismaili artist and Houston resident Barkat Khowja; an Indian land travel package by TravelGuzs; an iPad by Dhairyawan; a diamond pendant by Karat 22 Jewelers; a 6-day stay at Summer Bay Exploria Resorts donated by Parul Fernandes and a basket of cosmetics donated by Nidhika Mehta. Dr. Subodh Buchhar worked the crowd as the auctioneer, netting $10,000 for the ICC.
The musical program for the evening proved to be the most memorable portion of the program with Mahalakshmi and Hardik opening up with the ghazal, “Dil Cheez Kya Hai, Aap Meri Jaan Ligiye” and then mixing it up with new melodies like the latest song from Dabangg 2 “Dagabaaz” and from Parineeta, “Piyu Bole” with old classics like “Chaudavi Ka Chand” and “Aaja Aaja, Mein Hoon Pyaar Tera” which got people swaying in their seats. Mahalakshmi cajoled the audience to come onstage and sing, with an enthusiastic Manisha Gandhi venturing to perform a Sufi song from the movie Dirty Picture. Though most people didn’t want the music to end, it came to a close with “Damadum Mast Kalander” which got everyone dancing in front of the stage.
As the guests left, they had a final bit of memorabilia to take back: their portraits, which were taken early on arrival, in a cardboard frame, from the photographer Raghu Thakkar or Image & Motions; superimposed on different graphics.
Sarosh Maneckshaw (left) and Aban Rustomji flank Dr. Sarah Stewart who gave lectures on Zoroastranism in Houston this past weekend.
HOUSTON: The Zoroastrian Association of Houston invited Dr. Sarah Stewart to give the 11th Annual Library Lecture Series at their Center on Saturday, November 1. Entitled Pictures at an Exhibition, Voices of the People, her first lecture was based on The Everlasting Flame: Zoroastrianism in History and Imagination exhibition at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) that ran from October to December 2013. She attended an informal reception at the Center that same evening, which included songs and dances by community members. Her second lecture was held the next day at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston and drew on her recent research on Zoroastrianism in Iran.
Performers doing a Texan ditty at the reception held at the Zoroastrian Community Center on West Airport on Saturday, November 1. Photos: Jawahar Malhotra
Stewart is a lecturer in Zoroastrianism at SOAS, which is the world’s leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East and had flown in from the UK the evening before. She is co-editor of the six-volume series Idea of Iran. She was the lead curator of the Everlasting Flame exhibition, which was the first of its kind to give visual expression to Zoroastrian history, culture, and religion. It also explored the wide reach of the religion in the ancient world and its influence on the major religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
The ZAH lecture drew a wide audience from among community members as well as the general public. In the evening reception, there was a traditional Zoroastrian dinner and entertainment provided by ZAH dance and choir group that was enthusiastically received by one and all. The theme of the evening entertainment was “From Bollywood to Broadway” which included three generations of performers. The following morning there was an informal educational session in the ZAH Library where attendees had a chance to have a “conversation” with Stewart.
The talk at the MFAH was again very well attended and was followed by a reception. In this talk Sarah was able to draw on some of the exhibits from the MFAH’s Al Sabah collection adding a local context to her talk.
The story of Zoroastrianism today, according to Stewart, is one of the interweaving of three traditions: the Iranian tradition that gave birth to the religion, the Parsi tradition established in India once Iran became a Muslim land, and the Western pre-dominantly academic – tradition that emerged when Zoroastrian religious texts became the focus of Oriental Studies in the late 18th and 19th centuries.
Aban Rustomji, the Chairperson of the Zoroastrian Center Library Committee, who helped organize Stewart’s Houston events, said that libraries are the archives of civilization, a repository of existing knowledge and the place where you can read and discover new knowledge. “They are sources of strength; and because of their special roles throughout history, they have been targets for vandals. We hope that our effort to collect and preserve the growing source of knowledge will be recognized as a repository that fosters the awareness and study of our Zarthushti religion, history, traditions and culture”, she added. Rustomji went on to state that “the information that we collect in both print and non-print media will be one that we can pass on to the next generation of our young Zoroastrians.”
Located in the Zoroastrian Association of Houston at 8787 West Airport Boulevard, Houston, Texas, the Library is the home of FEZANA Information Research education System (www.fires-fezana.org) whose mission is to establish and provide global access to a centralized collection of materials in print and electronic form, primarily pertaining to the Zarathushti faith, culture and history.
HOUSTON: The local community celebrated Halloween with a spirit (no pun intended) this year that showed that they were finally getting integrated with the mainstream community, with costume parties going on all across town for the young, old and much older alike. It wasn’t just the candy seekers dressed as goblins and ghouls who made the rounds this year. In sharp contrast, many more people got into the revelry at the office and into wild parties with crazy looking makeup and costumes. Here’s a good cross section of the merry makers around town.
Cardiology Center of Houston celebrated Halloween with the entire staff coming into work in costumes. Dr. Randeep Suneja (center in bloodied scrubs) was joined by Dr. Desikan (in coat) and the rest of the nursing and support staff. Dr. Pai, the Center’s third doctor, was not available for the picture.
Above 3: On Friday, October 31, Houston party goers had an opportunity to witness a live performance by Mumbai’s Legendary DJ, DJ Notorious for the 3rd time in Houston at Nightmare on Main St. organized by Sunny Taj of ABCDHouston alongside DJ Scoop, DJ Masti & DJ Ramping. The event was sponsored by Arshad Ramji of Ramji & Associates. Photos: AK Lodi.
Above 2: Unique Group of companies Celebrated it’s first annual Unique Halloween Costume Contest on Friday, October 31, with style. Best costume contest was held and each employee was allowed one vote. At the end of the day everyone gathered at the newly built volleyball court and with light snacks and refreshments, winners were announced. First prize $300, second prize $200 and third prize $100.
Above 3: The Halloween costume party at Blaunsch in Sugar Land was Organized by Masala Radio and hosted by Sunil T. on Friday, October 31. The DJ’s were AV, ZEE, RIZZ, GEO, and DHOLI TAMIM. $1000 best costume contest was won by Ashka Din and Mehran Younis Din. Photos: Meedu Photografy.
PEARLAND: It was another auspicious inauguration, another stride in the celestial course of the inspiring chronicle of Sri Meenakshi Temple in Pearland. It was the Bhoomi Puja of its Main Temple expansion on Sunday, November 2.
On a serenely bright and balmy morning, about 300 devotees were blessed to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime sacred observance of initiating the second stage of the temple’s revered evolution. Adhering to all the time-honored, devout conventions prescribed by the Agamic traditions, Sri Meenakshi Temple celebrated the Ground-breaking ceremony on the weekend that saved an hour with the daylight savings.
Thirty-five years ago, Houston Hindus were blessed with Sri Meenakshi Temple, the first Shakthi Temple outside of India. It was a promising beginning and a propitious trend that followed with the establishment of several hundred temples in the continental United States.
To accommodate the ever growing needs of its devotees, a new Lakshmi Sanctum, Prakarams around the three main deities (Sri Meenakshi, Sri Sundareswara and Sri Venkateswara) and overall extension of space are included as the objectives of this project.
The auspicious initiation of any new construction is the traditional and customary ‘Bhoomi Puja’ (Ground-breaking ceremony), in which devotees request and get permission from Mother Earth to build on her sacred grounds and to ask for forgiveness for the disruption of living beings on the land.
The event started at 8.30 am with Ganapathy Homam, and Abhishekam for Prasanna Ganapathy. Following the Puja, devotees proceeded in a procession around the outer prakaram, entering through the Rajagopuram, doing Aarthi at all the four main sanctums. This was followed by the Bhoomi Puja on the north side of the temple, at the site where the future Mahalakshmi Sanctum is to be constructed. All the priests participated in the Puja and placed the Navarthnas, the nine jewels and the Navadhanyam, the nine grains symbolizing auspiciousness, abundance and prosperity in any endeavor.
Honorable Mayor of Pearland Tom Reid was present for the whole event. A unique feature of the event was the participation of the Vedic Heritage School students of MTS, over 100 of them arriving through the West Gopuram guided by their Gurus, and offering flowers at the site. Afterwards, they joined the group and recited the stanzas of sacred ‘Manthra Pushpam’, from Yajur Veda, normally sung as a chorus after pujas. This was followed by Devi Sthuthi in praise of Goddess Meenakshi, recited by the priests and repeated by all the devotees.
After the conclusion of the Puja, the Ground-breaking Ceremony was conducted in which devotees participated by digging up a piece of the earth using the sanctified shovel. To be involved in the construction of a temple, breaking the ground and offering the Navadhanyam in Bhoomi Puja, is considered to be the ultimate Karma for a Hindu.
By noon , there were 550 people participating in the event. The Pujas concluded with Maha Aarthi to Goddess Meenakshi inside the main temple. A traditional, delicious feast was served at the Youth Center after the conclusion of the religious observance.
The Construction Committee is finalizing the meticulous details of the plans and the project is expecting to be completed within a year.
MANVEL: The fourth annual ‘Life and Soul’ free health fair will be held on Nov 15 from 8 am to 1 pm at New Life Plaza (Sai Primary Care), 3945 CR 58, Manvel, TX. Organized by nonprofit community-based charity organizations Love to Share Foundation America (LTSFA) and Global organization for Divinity (G.O.D.), it is open to all with no prior registrations. Mayor Delores Martin of Manvel and Mayor Tom Reid of Pearland will kick-off the event at 8 am.
Given the rapid growth in community and its relative lack of resources, projects like Life and Soul with its free screenings, education, immunization and safety campaigns are indispensable in supporting mainstream medicine in the community.
Volunteer helping a 95-year-old participant
Screenings for this year at the fair include BMI, BP, Glucose, Cholesterol, Lung Function, Pulse Oximetry, EKG, Bone Density and Vision. 8-10 hours fasting is required for labs. Physicians will provide free consultations.
Free flu and pneumonia shots will be made available to eligible candidates, thanks to TMA’s Be Wise – Immunize program. Free helmets will be given to children and adults to prevent head injury.
Sponsors include Frost Bank, TMA, HEB Plus, Gale Pharmacy, Walgreens, Sanofi Aventis, ACC, Texas Eye Institute, Pearland Best Coupons, Pearland MRI, Proactive Physical Therapy and Bay Area Printing. Over 50 volunteers, including physicians, nurses, medical students, high school students and others work selflessly to make this event a possibility.
Volunteers at LTSFA and G.O.D work at grass roots levels to lend a helping hand to the under privileged, to empower individuals with accessible healthcare, education, leadership skills, and clean environment thus enhancing the quality of life and paving way for sustainable communities.
On Nov 13, 12-1 pm, LTSFA will present a session focusing on ‘inner’ health by its lead speaker Mr. M. K. Ramanujam – “Benefits of Mindfulness for Busy Professionals” – at University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center. This session is open to all. To register call 281-402-6585.
G.O.D aims to promote peace, harmony and universal love amid cultural diversity. It is involved in several spiritual, cultural and social activities in the Houston area as well as in several cities in the USA and other countries.
Among G.O.D.’s upcoming programs in Houston are Bhoomi pooja and Mahamantra Mass Prayer at Namadwaar Prayer House on Nov 8, and a grand 7-day Madhura Utsav and Srimad Bhagavata Saptaham from Dec 20-27.
For further info about these events call 281-402-6585 or email houston.god@godivinity.org
THE WOODLANDS: Hindu Temple of The Woodlands held a Diwali Party for seniors at the temple on Wednesday, October 29. The seniors enjoyed hearing a musical program and playing Diwali Games. This was followed by Dandiya Raas with volunteers teaching the basic steps to some who had never learned the popular folk dance.
The party ended with a delicious lunch with a great variety of sweet and savory items prepared by the seniors and the volunteers. There were even “goody bags” to take home.
This event was an addition to the bi-weekly meetings held at the temple located at 7601 S. Forestgate in The Woodlands on the first and third Wednesdays from 10:30 am to 2 pm. The meetings are open to all who consider themselves seniors. The meetings include a chair-based yoga session, a laughing yoga session, a talk or presentation on a topic of interest, a light lunch, and time for socializing.
Some of the recent programs have been “Fall Prevention”, Indian music and how to find it on the internet, Music Therapy, and more. Members’ input is sought for upcoming programs.
All Indian-American seniors in the area and their friends are invited to attend.
For further information, email info@woodlandshindutemple.org.
Dr. Madhav Chavan receiving the Asia Game Changer Award from Asia Society Trustee Lulu Wang. Photo: Ann Billingsley/Asia Society
HOUSTON: Dr. Madhav Chavan, co-founder of Pratham, was recognized for bringing the gift of literacy to millions of Indians by the Asia Society at the United Nations in New York City on October 16. Chavan has empowered millions of children across India through his organization, whose mission is to have every child in school and learning well. His efforts were recognized by the Asia Society, America’s leading institution dedicated to educating Americans about Asia, when he was bestowed a 2014 Asia Game Changer Award that recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the future of the continent.
“The Asia Game Changer Awards are designed to fill a glaring gap—a lack of recognition of people who are transforming ideas into action and improving lives in Asia,” said Asia Society President Josette Sheeran.
Dr. Chavan has brought scientific rigor and innovation to his life’s mission of providing quality education to underprivileged children. The results are impressive. Pratham’s flagship Read India program, which imparts basic reading and arithmetic skills, has touched the lives of over 34 million children since its inception. Through its unique partnership with local schools and governments and community stakeholders, Pratham is able to make a significant impact through its operations in 20 of India’s 29 states. Dr. Chavan believes local volunteers have enabled Pratham’s success and scale. “I believe in people, and I trust them to do the right thing and the amazing thing is that when you trust people, they don’t let you down. Plus, it gets the job done,” he said.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the Asia Society, especially alongside the luminaries this year,” said Dr. Chavan. “More importantly, I hope that this sheds more light on our ongoing pursuit to bring quality education to every child in India.”
In addition to its programs in the areas of early childhood and primary education, Pratham offers vocational skills training and job placement to young adults and educational support to girls and women who have dropped out of school. It also conducts the Annual Status of Education Report, the largest citizen-led survey of children’s enrollment and learning levels in India.
Learn more about Pratham at www.prathamusa.org and about the Asia Society Game Changer Awards at www.asiasociety.org/asia-game-changers.
Rajeshwari Antani, former India team player honored by TCC.
HOUSTON: It was a perfect game of Finals (10/18/2014) to end another highly competitive tournament with 18 participating teams. Spartans won the toss and elected to bat first. Spartans openers Manne (29) and Kaushik (20) gave a great start and added 36 runs in 4 mandatory power play overs. Srini joined Manne and both of them continued the run flow with continued great shots. After Manne got out in an attempt to accelerate, Jeeva and Srini started playing sensibly to rebuild the innings before Jeeva got run out. The score after 10 overs was 80/3. SLCC slowed down the proceedings in the next 10 overs and got wickets at regular intervals. Srini (22), Visu (29) and Venky (9*) from Spartans made useful contributions to take the score to 141/9 in 20 overs. Top bowlers for SLCC were Thusitha and Gihan with each of them picking 2 wickets.
Spartans Winners with Chief Guest Rajeshwari Antani
SLCC had a poor start and lost both their openers by the 3rd over due to great bowling by Nattu and Chaitanya. SLCC captain Thilan (30) and Ramesh (20) resurrected SLCC innings after the early loss with shots all around the ground. Thilan got out trying to accelerate. Ramesh was playing sensibly and holding on to one end but the wickets were falling on the other end regularly. Once Ramesh got out, Dushan (37) kept SLCC interested with big shots and support from other players. Nattu took the crucial wicket of Dushan in the 18th over and that sealed the match. In the end SLCC were all out for 127 and lost the game by 14 runs. Nattu from Spartans was declared MVP for picking up the wickets at crucial moment of the game. He was well supported by Aradhya with 3 wickets. The complete match details is available at: www.sportstatz.com/ss/web.asp?club=779&mode=100&match=21500
It was a comfortable win for Spartans who won their sixth tournament in six finals. For SLCC it was the 4th loss in 4 finals. The game had high quality umpiring from Rattlers and Houston Arrows.
SLCC Runners up with Chief Guest Rajeshwari Antani
The game was followed by a well-organized prize distribution ceremony arranged by TCC and attended by number of friends and family members who had come to support the teams. Everyone was honored with the presence of a former India woman player Rajeshwari Antani with an illustrious record for India which included representing India in 3 world cups as the chief Guest. The other members were Surya Saladi, founder member and member of Board of Directors, President Nanda Kumar, Vice President Krishna Shikaram, Secretary Nataraja Rao, member of Board of Directors Venky Rao. Jagadish Biradar, organizer of TCC Taped Ball tournament coordinated the presentation ceremony. Rajeshwari Antani was presented with a plaque by Nanda Kumar for her contribution to cricket in Houston.
Nataraja Rao, the captain of Spartans was presented with the championship trophy and Thilan, the captain of SLCC was presented with the runners up trophy. The players of the winners and runners up received individual trophies. Man of the match for the finals was Nataraja Rao from Spartans for a match winning bowling performance with figures of 4-0-18-4.
Thilan from SLCC won the Best Batsman trophy with 350 runs. Satish Adapa from HJCC won the Best Bowler trophy with a record 28 wickets and Kunal Manocha from Strikers won the best All-Rounder trophy with 212 runs and 14 wickets.
Trophies were also given to the man of the match for Semi Finals and Quarter Finals. Visu from Spartans and Thilan from SLCC were the recipients of the man of the match for Semi Finals. Yesu from HJCC, Krishnan from Grady, Krishna from Spartans and Dushan from SLCC were the recipients of the man of the match for Quarter Finals. Special prizes were given to Wasif Khan from RCC for a century, Sampath from SLCC for a Hattrick and Kunal from Strikers for a Hattrick.
~ Channel available to viewers on Dish and Dishworld in US and Rogers Cable in Canada~
MUMBAI: After its successful launch in the UK and India, Viacom18 and IndiaCast announce the launch of the Hindi general entertainment channel ‘Rishtey’ in the US and Canada. Adding the festive fervor for viewers in the region, Rishtey is now available to the US audiences on Dish and Dishworld on channel 699 and to Canada viewers on Rogers Cable on channel 924. As Viacom18’s second general entertainment channel, Rishtey is geared to offer an engaging mix of exciting shows, movies and entertainment from a wide spectrum of genres.
With seven channels already available in North America, IndiaCast currently has a comprehensive portfolio of brands in the region that covers a wide range of entertainment offerings. Rishtey is the eighth channel in the region and will be available on a paid subscription format. With the launch of the Rishtey on Dish and Dishworld, the channel will now be available to around 160K households in the US.
Commenting on Rishtey’s foray into the US & Canada, Gaurav Gandhi – Group COO IndiaCast said, “US and Canada are the most important international markets for South Asian entertainment and we are delighted to launch our second Hindi entertainment channel, Rishtey, in this region. Our flagship brand Aapka COLORS has seen unprecedented success in the region over the last 4 years. With the launch of Rishtey, we address the audience’s need for variety entertainment and Rishtey will be the classic ‘family channel’ with something for everyone in the South Asian household. Over the last two years, the Rishtey, in its different avatars, has developed a strong foothold in the UK and in India and we are extremely confident that the brand will be a huge success here as well.”
Rishtey, for the North America region, is a customized Pay TV service that promises to engage viewers with a plethora of content ranging from scripted dramas from the subcontinent (both India & Pakistan), Indian Kids content, Youth programming, Lifestyle as well as Bollywood content. The channel is a true variety entertainment service with “something for everyone” in the family.
Elaborating on the launch, Sameer Goswami- Senior Vice President & Head of North America business for IndiaCast said, “Launch of Rishtey in North America adds another dimension to our stellar portfolio of channels in the region. For each market that we launch Rishtey in, our content and distribution strategy is customized as per the relevant audience consumption and that’s exactly what we have done here. US & Canada are the first markets where this brand will be a Pay-Tv service. With 8 services in the region, which includes 2 Hindi GECs, a world class News Service, an iconic youth & music service as well as 4 regional (language) entertainment channels, we truly have the most comprehensive portfolio in the South Asian space.”
About Viacom18 Media Pvt. Ltd
Viacom 18 Media Pvt. Ltd. is a joint venture operation in India between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B, world’s leading entertainment content company, comprising brands like BET, MTV Networks and Paramount Pictures) (www.viacom.com) and the Network18 (www.network18online.com) Group, the group operates news channels – CNBC-TV18, CNBC Awaaz, CNBC-TV18 Prime HD, CNN-IBN, IBN7 and IBN-Lokmat (a Marathi regional news channel in partnership with the Lokmat group).
Viacom18 is India’s fastest growing entertainment network of iconic brands offering multi-platform, multi – generational and multicultural brand experiences across television, film, digital media and LIVE events. Viacom 18 Media Pvt. Ltd. includes the vibrant youth brand – MTV (www.mtvindia.com), the fastest growing kids cluster – Nick (www.nickindia.com), Nick Jr, Nick Teen & Sonic, India’s premier International Entertainment channel – Vh1, India’s only English Entertainment Comedy Channel – Comedy Central, India’s only linear film production & distribution banner – Viacom18 Motion Pictures, COLORS (www.colorstv.in) one of India’s leading Hindi General Entertainment channel. This apart, Viacom18 also runs Viacom’s consumer products business in India and also a brand solutions offering – Integrated Network Solutions (INS).
About IndiaCast
‘IndiaCast’ is India’s first multi-platform ‘Content Asset Monetization’ entity, jointly owned by TV18 & Viacom18. IndiaCast mandate includes Domestic Distribution, Placement Services, International Channel Distribution & Advertising Sales, New Media (digital) distribution and Content Syndication for all the group company channels & content. In India, IndiaCast manages subscription & placement services for 45 channels from TV18, Viacom18, A+E Networks | TV18, ETV channels & Disney UTV groups. Internationally, IndiaCast has a portfolio of over 10 channels (including Colors, MTV India International, Rishtey, News 18 India and 6 ETV regional Services) that are viewed in over 80 countries as linear services. With a rich content library of 15000 hours across genres, IndiaCast also syndicates content in over 100 countries in 20+ languages (including Hebrew, Russian, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, Macedonian, Croatian, Azeri, Kazakh, Swahili, English among others). IndiaCast also delivers a wide range of content to various new media platforms including content from over 20 channels from the group across News, Music, Youth & Lifestyle, General Entertainment & Infotainment genre in multiple languages. Apart from Television shows & series, IndiaCast also offers Indian feature films (both Bollywood & Regional) on digital platforms in India and overseas markets. For more information on IndiaCast, log on to www.indiacast.com
HOUSTON: On Saturday, November 15, around 7,000 participants will race to end global poverty in the annual Houston Partnership Walk at Sam Houston Park. The Houston Partnership Walk/Run is an initiative of Aga Khan Foundation U.S.A. (AKF USA) to raise awareness and funds that reduce poverty, hunger, illiteracy and poor health in Africa and Asia.
Last year’s event raised $1.4 million for AKF programs to reduce poverty. 100% of the funds raised at Partnership Walk go directly to projects supported by the Foundation; not a cent is spent on administration.
The event is a day of fun for the whole family and one that Houstonians look forward to every year. The Walk features lively entertainment and activities for all ages celebrating a rich diversity of cultures. One of the most inspiring features of Partnership Walk is the Village in Action, where participants can enjoy interactive exhibits spotlighting the Foundation’s practical solutions for alleviating poverty from Afghanistan to Zanzibar.
To register, view the Walk / Run Day schedule, learn more about the event, volunteer, become a sponsor or make a donation, visit www.partnershipsinaction.org/houston.
This year marks the 20th anniversary for Partnership Walk / Run events, which will be held in nine major U.S. cities. Since 1995, PartnershipsInAction activities including the annual Partnership Walk, Run and Golf events have attracted over 440,000 participants and raised over $63 million for poverty alleviation projects supported by AKF USA.
Participants help communities in some of the poorest areas of Africa and Asia to create long-term, self-help solutions to lift themselves out of poverty. These contributions make a tremendous impact in creating opportunities for girls in Afghanistan to go to school, for farmers in Mali to feed their families, and mothers in India to lead healthy lives.
AKF USA, established in 1981, is a private, non-denominational, not-for-profit international development organization committed to alleviating poverty, hunger, illiteracy and poor health. AKF USA works to address the root causes of poverty by supporting and sharing innovative solutions in the areas of health, education, rural development, civil society, and the environment. AKF USA is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service code.
AKF USA is part of the Aga Khan Development Network (www.akdn.org), a network of private, non-denominational, development agencies around the world, established by His Highness the Aga Khan to empower communities and individuals, often in disadvantaged circumstances, improve living conditions and opportunities. The Network’s agencies work for the common good of all citizens, regardless of their gender, origin or religion and its underlying impulse is the ethic of compassion for the vulnerable in society.
For further information, contact: Munira Panjwani at 713-298-3073 or email: munirapanjwani@aol.com
Melanie Gilmore, (Health Planning Chief at City of Houston) with VYASA and Sewa Volunteers outside the DAWN center where SDM camp is starting this week.
Stop Diabetes Camp using Yoga Therapy at City Of Houston DAWN Center
HOUSTON: VYASA and Sewa International are starting the 4th SDM (Stop Diabetes Movement) Camp at D.A.W.N. center of City of Houston in downtown Houston from this week in partnership with Health department of City of Houston. The camp will offer free classes covering Integrated approach of Yoga Therapy to manage and control Diabetes for 20 hours. More than 15 participants are expected to take benefit of this camp starting on November 6.
Earlier, successful camps were conducted in Katy, Alief and Woodlands area where more than 60 participants have been benefited so far. Sewa International, a non-profit organization servicing Houston Community (www.sewausa.org) is offering this camp with expertise of VYASA.
Stop Diabetes Movement originated at SVYASA, Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Through systematic research of 30 years, comprehensive yoga modules have been established that have shown measurable improvement in the various complications associated with Diabetes. The program has been proven to reduce cholesterol and reduce dependence on medicines as well as reduce anxiety and depression associated with the disease.
Sewa International and VYASA centers in Houston, Los Angeles and Boston have started similar programs on a pilot basis. Based on the efficacy and success of this program in these cities, it will be expanded to other cities in USA.
HOUSTON: Shunya Theatre, Houston’s non-profit South Asian dramatic organization, ends its 2014 season with the regional opening of “Bhopal,” a drama that is set against the backdrop of the worst industrial tragedy in history.
While thirty years ago the Bhopal tragedy shocked the world when it killed thousands and maimed hundreds of thousands, today it continues to affect Bhopal’s citizens and their progeny. Through his intricate portrayal of various characters, playwright Varma explores the very personal ways that the event had an impact across all layers of society. Director Dianne K Webb believes that because Varma spins a fictional tale amidst this very real event, it provides the audience with an opportunity “to join the characters in their emotional and revelatory journey.” Varma’s success lies in creating characters that are not purely good or evil, but complex heroes that give the actors a chance to really dig in to bring them to life on the stage.
Director Dianne K Webb says she was drawn to the script that playwright Varma wrote as he “captured the layers and tensions across cultures and circumstances” along with “the politics that conspired to create the tragedy that is and remains Bhopal” through his story telling focused on the varied players as well as the survivors and their experience. Webb believes the play will give viewers the chance “to deepen and broaden their perspective on humanity.” While the play may focus on a true event, the play’s success lies in the fact that through its fictional characters it gives a new context to a global event that deserves to be remembered in the pages of history.
Guest director Dianne K. Webb, from Houston’s Next Iteration Theater, brings together Shunya actors who are old favorites—Deeba Ashraf as Izzat, Karthik Chander as Devraj Sarthi, Prateek Karkal as Jaganlal and some new faces including Charanya Ravikumar as Madiha, Sam Stengler as Warren Anderson, Laura Schlecht as Dr. Sonya Labonte and Brandon Hobratschk as Sauvé Pascal. Bhagreshi Karkal will open the show with a traditional dance while Jason Zinn will provide live tabla playing throughout the show.
“Bhopal” plays at the Spring Street Studio 101, 1824 Spring Street, 77007, from November 13 through November 23, Thursdays-Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Preview show is Thursday November 13.
For further information visit the Shunya Theater website at http://shunyatheatre.org.
Khichdi is usually made from rice and dal (lentils) and is commonly considered an easy-to-cook comfort food, but it can also be made from sabudana (tapioca) in much the same way as making sabudana kheer, except the khichdi is salty instead of sweet. It is made mostly during fasts or during the navaratri season by the devout as it contains no onions or garlic.
Sabudana is a starchy substance and comes in tiny thin or thick pellets, sometimes called pearls. Because it is high in carbohydrates (86 grams of carbs in each 100 gm), sabudana is used to provide an energy-boost in dishes.
Just as the rice version, this khichdi is quick and easy to make and is great nourishment for those people who are recovering from a sickness. This served just like regular khichdi, when someone suffers from stomach problems as it is easily digestible and it is made for the elderly or as a first solid food for babies.
Although this is a rather bland, starchy dish, it can be perked up with some black pepper and olive oil. It becomes tastier with some achaar (pickles), especially nimbu (lemon) and some yogurt. However, for those wanting to experiment, sabudana khichdi can it can be easily added onto with other ingredients and made into a comforting snack food.
Ingredients:
1 cup sabudana (sago or tapioca)
4 cups pani (water)
2 medium aaloo (potatoes – white, thin skinned, chopped)
1 tbspn olive oil
Spices: namak (salt), mirch (pepper) – to your taste
Directions:
1. Pour the sabudana in a bowl full of water, cover and let it soak overnight so that it swells up.
2. Pour the 4 cups of water in a saucepan or small pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. Throw in the potatoes and the spices and bring to a second boil.
3. Pour the sabudana through a strainer to drain the water, then pour it into the boiling water. Add the oil and stir.
4. After 10 minutes, turn the heat off and let the khichdi sit with the cover on.
5. Sprinkle the top of the khichdi with black pepper and serve while still hot. This dish tastes good with nimbu ka achaar (lemon pickle) and some plain yogurt.
MAMA’S TIP OF THE WEEK
TO CUT OUT THE SMELL OF COOKING, BOIL SOME ROSE WATER
After cooking desi food, there is often a lingering smell of the prepared dishes which can be hard to get rid of, especially if you are expecting company.
There is an easy and cheap way to eliminate this odor. Simply pour 3 cups of water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil then add two tablespoons of rose water. Turn the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered. In a short while, the food odors will disappear and the delicate smell of roses will fill the air. If you prefer other types of natural smells (like jasmine or vanilla), you can experiment with these too, but vary the quantity added to the water.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
