IAN 082523

Gigantic Triveni Supermarket has Masala Style Grand Opening

KATY, TX: Triveni Supermarket – the third of its kind – opened it gigantic 26,000 sq.ft store with a bang!! The Masala Style Grand Opening on AUG 19th featured an Indian Independence theme, from the Cricket-shirt-clad Masala Crew, to the Indian and American flag cake, balloons, facepainting, and even an orange-green-blue trackless train!

The Mayor of Fulshear, Aaron Groff, Fulshear City Council Member Abhijeet Uttukar, Fort Bend County Commissioner Pct. 1 Vincent Morales Jr. and the owner Srini Srigadha and his partners officiated the grand ribbon cutting.

The line for the first 10 people to receive a gold coin, and the next 50 people to receive a huge silver coin, started at an incredible 6AM…some waiting an unbelievable four hours before the store opened at 10AM. Mayor Groff said. “this is my second Grand Opening with Masala – it was full of fun, energy, dancing, and just a HUGE crowd…something I rarely see at store openings!”

Very considerately, the owners had kept a walkin cooler filled with free chilled water bottles and juices OUTSIDE, as well as delicious samosas and chai from their bustling built in restaurant. Mounds of scrumptious dosas, curries, bondas, watermelon and sugar cane juices, and 18 flavors of cake pastries, were served to the guests at spectacular grand opening rates in an Indian styled food court.

Deep Foods generously provided a 100 goodie bags filled to the brim with delicious fafda, and variety of Pumpkin Spice, Masala and the coveted Lemongrass instant Quick Tea’s. The line was shaded, but constant even after three hours until 1PM. Everyone in line received a $20 gift card, further adding the sale.

Houston had been through months of a drought in really amazing grocery sales – the kind where you stock up for the year – so the sale was as welcome as the rains. Most Dals were at pre-Covid lows of $3.99, most vegetables were $.49 - .$.99 a pound – everyone left with shopping carts precariously filled to overflowing!

Sunil Thakkar of Masala Radio emceed the event with energy & comedy, including some crazy contests: a lady whistling contest and a cake eating contest…with no hands!

Later Ken – VP of Savant Energy – added some more Masala on the mic and congratulated the owners as well as reached out to their customers swarming in from the surrounding neighborhoods.

Triveni Supermarket first opened its Mega stores in Charlotte, NC, followed by Elliott City, MD. After this Karty Store, the next stores are planned in South Carolina, Virginia and Cypress, TX on!

Triveni Supermarket Katy is on 2727 Spring Green Blvd. Trivenisupermarket.com.

Stay Tuned to Masala Radio 98.7FM for Cypress Store Grand Opening details coming soon…!

Fifty Years in the Making, ICC Celebrates with a Blast

BY JAwAhAr MAlhoTrA

SUGAr lAND, TX:

There’s an old saying in some quarters of economic supply-demand management that talks about “Critical Mass” and how things get so big they take on a life of their own

That’s kind of what has happened to the India Culture Center, the Grand Daddy of all the other Indian (or for that matter, South Asian) organizations in the Greater Houston area and this past Saturday, August 19, the venerable non-profit with a splendid pedigree of over 43 Presidents threw a huge bash at the Marriott Hotel Towne Center to mark its 50th Anniversary.

As Past President Jasmeeta Singh pointed out later onstage, “the ICC serves as a bridge connecting all major Indian organizations and individuals of Indian origins in the greater Houston area. Our goal is to promote educate and unite India’s diverse cultures and values for the benefit of all communities.”

Present President Malla Makela, a direct man of few words, hammered home the message in his

speech.

Judging from the huge turnout of over 550 people, these were the movers and shakers around town (mostly Desi) who have been connected to the ICC at one time or the other. They came to congratulate the ICC Board and Trustees, they came for the venue and excellent food from Mahesh’s Kitchen, they came

for the high touch of décor and the opening music by Indian and Western Fusion Band Sitarji playing a blend of ragas, rock, jazz and Bollywood.

But mostly they came for special guest Bollywood actor Sonu Sood who has made a second career for himself as a philanthropist who found his calling in serving the distressed in dozens of crisis

spots across India and the globe. Sonu stayed around to attend the ICC’s Independence Day program the following day too.

Sonu also met the other special guest for the evening, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner who presented Sood with an award from the city. Local artist Nizar Maknojia, a huge fan of Sonu Sood, presented him with his hand

painted portrait on behalf of the Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston.

There were other dances, lots of on stage group pictures and superb singing by Sharmistha and Subrata, a dynamic husband-wife team as the evening ended.

But the ICC Board and Trustees could rest on their laurels, knowing that in 50 years their work has been appreciated for the two flag ship celebrations they do each year -Indian Republic Day and Independence Day – even as they branch out into others. You see, they have achieved “Critical Mass”.

NEXT WEEK

ICC 50Th GAlA PhoTo CollAGe

StopHateNow

A Noble Soul, Usha Rani Suneja, 88, Passes Peacefully

atmosphere of unity and togetherness, strengthening the bonds of family and friendship.

Throughout her journey, Mrs. Suneja demonstrated an unshakeable faith and an enduring optimism that radiated hope to those who crossed her path. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on through the lives she touched, reminding us all of the immeasurable impact a single life can have on the world.

New DelhI:: The Suneja Family deeply mourns the loss of a remarkable woman, as they announce the passing of their beloved matriarch, Mrs. Usha Rani Suneja, who peacefully departed for her heavenly abode on August 16, 2023. Born on November 20, 1934, she graced this world with her presence, filling it with kindness, compassion, and an abundance of love.

Mrs. Usha Rani Suneja, a beacon of grace and elegance, touched the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her unwavering spirit, unconditional love, and noble demeanor made her a source of inspiration for her family and friends alike. She epitomized the essence of a selfless and caring soul, kindness and compassion consistently extending her heart and hand to anyone in need.

With a heart as vast as the ocean, she was a caring wife, loving mother, a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother and a dear friend to many. Her warm radiant smile and comforting presence were a constant source of solace for those around her. She possessed an innate ability to foster an

As the Suneja Family reflects on the memories they shared with their beloved Mumma, they find solace in the knowledge that her spirit will forever dwell within their hearts. Though she may have departed from this physical realm, her legacy of love, compassion, and generosity will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.

Cremation ceremony was held on Monday, August 21 at 10:30 AM at the Punjabi Bagh Crematorium in New Delhi . A memorial service to honor and celebrate her life was held on Tuesday August 22, from 3-4 PM at the Arya Samaj Mandir in Kirti Nagar, New Delhi.

In Houston , a Havan followed by Prayer Service will be held on Saturday, August 26, 10:30 AM -12:30 PM at the Arya Samaj Mandir, 14375 Schiller Road, Houston, TX 77082.

Mrs. Usha Rani Suneja will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as a woman of remarkable character, a wellspring of love, and a source of boundless warmth. May her soul find eternal peace and may her memory forever shine brightly in our hearts.

She is survived by her sons Dr. Pradeep Suneja (wife Amita) of New Delhi and Dr. Randeep Suneja (wife Seema) of Katy, Texas, six grand children and 6 great grandchildren.

A Kavi Semmelan That Kept the Packed Hall in Stitches !!

hoUSToN: On Friday August 11, 2023, the International Hindi Association Houston Chapter and India Culture Center, once again hosted the highly anticipated annual event, the Hindi Hasya KaviSammellan. Three distinguished poets from India embarked on a North American tour, captivating audiences across 24 different cities before culminating their journey on Labor Day weekend.

The dedicated IHA executive committee members Nisha Mirani, Ajit Patel and Charlie Patel took care of event day logistics. The responsibility for photography and the slide show was expertly managed by Sanjay Sohoni, who delivered a captivating visual experience before the poets took the podium. The full capacity of over 300 attendees were treated to a sumptuous dinner catered by Indian Summer before the start of the program. The acoustics of the India House hall were exceptional, exceeding expectations.

Swapan Dhairyawan the Event Coordinator and Past President

inaugurated the program with a brief overview of IHA and its objectives. He extended gratitude to all the supporters and sponsors before inviting ICC President Malla Mekala to update about ICC upcoming events. Rajiv Bhavsar, President of IHA Houston Chapter, extended a warm welcome and shared insightful thoughts. Swapan then introduced Sangeeta Pasrija acknowledging her as instrumental who revitalized the IHA Houston Chapter in 2008 with ICC’s support. She proceeded to provide a concise introduction of the poets.

Dr. Sarita Sharma from New Delhi, the accomplished and popular Geetkaar, skillfully conducted the stage. Her recitations were imbued with profound emotion, each word resonating deeply with the audience. She eloquently explored themes of love, boundaries, devotion, and strength from Indian woman’s perspective culminating in her moving masterpiece, “Maa ki aankhon mein aansu na dena kabhi,” which left not a single eye dry, touching the souls of all pres-

ent.

Sudeep Bhola from Jabalpur, the youthful and statuesque poet, exuded immense energy. He skillfully engaged the audience with his cleverly crafted political and social satire, inviting active participation in his melodious parodies. Many recognized him from his popular TV show in India, where he humorously satirizes renowned politicians face to face.

Gaurav Sharma’s (from Mumbai) one-liners, two-liners, and four-line joke/rhymes elicited uproarious laughter and applause throughout the entire hall. His wit and humor flowed seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of continuous amusement.

Several new audience attending for the first time were thoroughly captivated by the delightful fusion of ghazals, poetry, and laughter, culminating in a two-hour immersive experience of intellectually enriching entertainment. For more information visit http:// www.hindi.orgthese interns to become better citizens of society.

Youth Program Blends Tradition, Tech at BAPS Festival of Inspirations

AKShArDhAM, NJ: During the ongoing Festival of Inspirations at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey, two uniquely themed programs, “My House to Home: Inspiring Family Values” and “Swami Malvathi” (after meeting a spiritual guru), took place on August 16 and August 19, respectively.

My House to Home: Inspiring Family Values

The first segment of “My House to Home” organized by women, for women, showcased women from diverse backgrounds sharing personal tales of the importance of family values in childrearing.

Themes of unity and forgiveness were explored to maintain harmony in one’s family and within oneself. “It is okay to ask for help. Learn to lean on your inspiration” said Dr. Rakhee Patel, BAPS volunteer and dentist.

The second half of the program emphasized the significance of family values in child-rearing through speeches and dramas. Opening with a thought-provoking video on the essence of good parenting, the event illustrated that effective parenting balances guidance with freedom, setting boundaries while fostering individuality. Through engaging narratives, the program showcased how to navigate the challenges of

tional love. Pujya Vivekjivandas Swami stressed the role of parents as a home’s emotional pillar, emphasizing health, education, and values as crucial in child upbringing, as once shared by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. His message resonated: “A family that eats, plays, and prays together, stays together.” A pivotal takeaway was the harm of comparing children to others, which can instill lasting feelings of inferiority.

ness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s on the most important and universal lessons a parent can imbibe, “Give your children unconditional love and avoid comparisons. Just as the right care helps a tree grow, children need proper love and nourishment. Don’t rush their growth; let them blossom.” He underscored that values instilled today shape generations tomorrow.

a friend, a mentor, and most importantly, a guide through all moments in life. One’s relationship with the guru is one of the most transformative relationships in life. The program explored what strengthening one’s bond with the guru looks like and what it means to truly understand the guru.

parenthood.

Key elements of positive parenting were explored in a panel discussion and further emphasized by Pujya Anandswarupdas Swami. Such parenting offers warmth, security, and uncondi-

Distinguished guests included Vincent Lima from Moelis & Company, who praised the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham’s volunteer-driven efforts in creating a haven of peace. The evening concluded with a speech by His Holi-

Kishore - Kishori Din | Swami Malavathi

The other program, “Swami Malvathi” (after meeting a spiritual guru) was a special tribute from the teenagers to their guru, Mahant Swami Maharaj. A guru serves as

The first half of the program featured young women who shared unique perspectives from their life experiences of how distance is no obstacle in forming a spiritual connection with the guru. Through reflections on heartfelt prayers offered in times of distress, service performed selflessly as inspired by their guru, and divine memories from the spiritual tours of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the participants illustrated ways in which they’ve been able to strengthen their bond with Mahant Swami Maharaj and feel his guiding presence in their lives, irrespective of distance.

During the evening assembly, CoNTINUeD oN PAGe 11

Sewa, MMNA & HSS Hold 5K Walkathon for Health

rIChMoND, TX: Sewa Houston

SELF team organized their 29th 5k walk/run in association with Maheshwari Mahasabha of North America (MMNA) SW and Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) on Saturday, August 12 at Aliana, Richmond TX. Inspite of the hot weather, over 120 people turned up, including several kids and youth! The goal was to promote an active and healthy lifestyle as well as physical and emotional wellbeing.

The event started with warm up exercises, followed by the national anthems of India and US to mark the occasion of India’s 77th Independence Day. Girish Mehta, Vice Consul General of India greeted the crowd and flagged off the 5k

walk/run.

Pawan, one of the Participants said, “I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation for the organizing teams for this morning’ 5K. We had a splendid time today. It was phenomenal to see children, seniors and all friends collaborate on this 5K journey to make it a fun ride.”

Rupalee Maheshwari, President of MMNA Houston said, “We all participated because we care for our health and fitness. This phenomenon has to continue and percolate down to our kids and in turn to the community as a whole. Events like these align with MMNA SW’s mission to make our community fit, hit and lit and we are very thankful to

SEWA for this opportunity.”

HSS Coordinator, Apoorv Shrivastava said, “ One of the core principles of HSS is “healthy mind resides in a healthy body” and this 5k Walk/Run helps our members fulfill it. This is the 3rd such event organized together by HSS Ahilya Shakha & Sewa in the Richmond area”.

Sewa International volunteers have been organizing 5K walk/run events in the Greater Houston area over the past few years working with 20+ different partner organizations every month. Sewa has conducted twenty-nine such events based on Sewa’s S.E.L.F. framework – Sleep, Exercise, Living in the present, and Food and diet. Over 2,500 people have benefited

from these events -- with some of them practicing yoga, some participating in regular walks/runs, and some of them even running half marathons having joined fitness

groups in their area. These events and the SELF program have also attracted many high school students and adults to join Sewa International’s volunteering programs.

September 8, 2023

Akshaya Patra announces famous celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor to Houston at Kiran’s Restaurant

Akshaya Patra to host celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor with renowned Houston chef Kiran Verma for a superb afternoon of delicious food, fun and fundraising.

Akshaya Patra provides 2+ Million hot mid day lunches at 20,000+ government schools in 15 states and 2 territories across India.

Join us in helping raise the funds for this noble and worthy cause.

Venue: Kiran’s Restaurant, 2925 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77098

Admissions & Donations: www.tinyurl.com/chefkapoor , www.apusa. org/events

Complimentary Valet Parking at the venue.

Houston Contact: Ashok Shah 832-518-9938, Janardan Thakkar: 713-249-4256, National - AP Development Director: Geeta Rai – 408839-1123

All donations & admission charges are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. APUSA organization is a registered 501(c)3 organization. TAX ID: 01-0574950

Shri Krishna Janmashtami Celebrated on Wed., Sept. 6

hoUSToN: ISKCON of Houston & Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) celebrate this year’s auspicious Krishna Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Krishna) at ISKCON’s temple, 1320 West 34th St., on Wednesday, September 6 from 6pm till midnight.

The premiere community-wide festival—observed on the actual divine astrological evening—is free and open to all, a perfect event to invite neighbors and colleagues to showcase the rich Hindu culture which contributes to Houston’s diversity. The evening runs on two simultaneous tracks: cultural programs in the Gauranga Community Hall, and spiritual discussions and kirtan in the temple.

The temple will be decorated with a multitude of fresh flowers, with live kirtan, spectacular darshan (audience) of the Lord, 3 aratis (worship ceremonies) at 7 pm, 9 pm and midnight, and a discourse on the importance of Janmashtami. The midnight arati draws more than thousand devotees, who chant & dance ecstatically to welcome the Lord dressed in His new outfit.

In addition, there will be opportunities to perform abhishek (ceremonial bathing of the Deity), jhulan (swinging the Lord), guided mantra meditation, anointing with tilak (sacred clay) and children’s activities. Vendors will offer literature & other items. Nila Madhava’s

First Hindi, Culture of India Program at a Middle School

BY ArUN PrAKASh

Boutique in the temple building offers Indian musical instruments & CDs, art, clothing, jewelry, books & a variety of snacks.

“We are bringing the best from 35 years of celebrations by HGH and 45 years of celebrations by ISKCON of Houston - the most spectacular celebration of Birthday of Lord Krishna. This year, it will be a very special one for all to come and see how a spiritual party is staged! The children’s costume contest will showcase an array of Divine characters in the form of divine kids,” said Thara Narasimhan, HGH President.

A crowd favorite Costume Contest is planned as well for children ages 0 through 11 and everyone is encouraged to bring their child to participate. Registration details are on the website.

Although the delicious free vegetarian dinner is always a crowd favorite, attendees also have the option to dine at Govinda’s, ISKCON’s popular new vegetarian restaurant, right on the temple property.

Free convenient parking and shuttle service from Waltrip High School (at 1900 West 34th Street). There will be NO PARKING available at the temple.

Visit www.hindusofhouston.org or https://iskconhouston.org/janmashtami; costume contest, contact Shital Rathi 832-860-6934

BellAIre, TX: After years of efforts, it is now happening! I am proud to announce the first of its kind Hindi and Culture of India credit program emphasizing Hindu Culture at Pin Oak Middle school, 4601 GlenMont Street, Bellaire.

Pin Oak Middle school is a very high ranked magnet school in the State. Now, 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will be able to learn Hindi and Culture of India everyday in a formal classroom setting and will receive credit. This school is zoned to Bellaire High School and students will be able to continue to learn advance Hindi in the nation’s first Hindi program started in 1988 by myself with only 8 students. Hindi is a critical need second language in the USA declared by President George W. Bush. The U.S. Department of Education and National Security released lots of money to start Hindi programs in American universities, colleges, and from fusion programs in the elementary schools to advance level of Hindi in junior and senior high schools.

The American Council for the teaching of Foreign Languages formed a committee to develop Hindi Curriculum for grade 1 to grade 16 in 2006 and I was a member of the committee. In 2008 ACTFL formed and funded a program called STARTALK to train Hindi teachers and educate stu-

dents about Hindi and rich culture of India so that large number of students can enroll in Hindi from elementary to college level education.

I was the Master trainer of the first 4 weeks STARTALK program held in HEB school district in Dallas in which 20 peaple were trained in Hindi and 150 elementary and junior high school stu-

dents participated and learned about Hindi as an exploratory language. The University of Texas at Austin Hindi department was given a grant to start a Hindi Flagship program in the campus. I was a consultant and was assigned a project to develop exploratory material to provide introductory knowledge of Hindi and Hinduism for Texas world History and Geography teachers. I was also chosen as a member of the committee to develop guideline for the teaching of foreign languages in the State of Texas for the 21st century.

All said, this resulted in the start of many Hindi programs in the US including Rice University and University of Houston main campus. But due to lack of interest among the Indian community, many closed down after a couple of years, while Chinese, Russian and Arabic are flourishing due to community support and funding from corporations and respective governments.

Indo American News

FoUNDer: Dr. K.l. SINDwANI

PUBlISher: JAwAhAr MAlhoTrA

eDITor: PrAMoD KUlKArNI

®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. Deadline for advertising and articles is 4 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 2470 Dairy Ashford, Houston, Texas 77077. Tel:713-789-6397, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: www.indoamerican-

HINDU WORSHIP SOCIETY

2223

From left, Asst. Principal Jeremy Gates, Arun Prakash, Principal Lindsey Vela

CHARITY LETTER TO EDITOR

Women Run Community Kitchen for Aksaya Patra in Barsana, India

BArSANA DhAM, UP: Barsana Community Kitchen Inauguration Akshaya Patra’s 67th kitchen in Barsana, Uttar Pradesh, was successfully launched recently. Equipped to prepare 5,000 meals per day, the new kitchen also features a community hall where training and workshops will be organized for the staff. The mid-day meal menu will include Roti, Pulav, Kheer, Chana dal Loki, Tehari, Dal, and Kala Chana curry, which are part of the local diet. This menu will enable us to reach more children in the area and contribute to their overall development under the Central Government’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan scheme. The Barsana kitchen is Akshaya Patra’s pioneering all-women-run community kitchen, with 80% of the workforce being women and the remaining 20% being men who will handle technical operations. Through this initiative, we aim to empower local women by providing them with financial independence, decision-making power, and technical skills. Through the Barsana kitchen, our sixth kitchen in the state, we will continue to implement various feeding programs to positively impact the lives of those who need our assistance.

Today, Akshaya Patra has grown to support 22,000+ schools in 15 states and 2 union territories.

Akshaya Patra USA is a nonprofit organization that works to support the mission of the foundation by engaging thousands of vol-

unteers and donors in the United States. Our nationwide Chapters, present in various states, have been working tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for the foundation. These efforts help to ensure that more children in India have access to nutritious meals, allowing them to learn and grow in a healthy environment.

Through the support of our volunteers and donors, the Foundation is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children in India. Together, we can make sure that no child goes hungry while they are in school, and help to build a brighter future for all.

The Houston Chapter keeps holding donation drives such as a Musical Concert by Sanjeevani Bhelande, community outreach luncheons and other local events in support of the Akshaya Patra’s mission of Unlimited food for education for the school age children in India.

Currently 2+ million children are being fed daily and are learning due to the mid-day meal program and gearing up to a better world and future. Akshaya Patra’s goal now is to feed at least 3+ million school children everyday by 2025.

How far does your dollar go?

An interesting fact: $20 feeds a child back in India for an entire academic year. This, in spite of inflation and the best part is 90% of it goes towards feeding the chil-

dren and the rest goes towards administration costs. We have been able to keep the costs low due to recycling, reusing, eliminating wasteful processes, applying state of the art technology and water harvesting. Support Akshaya Patra upcoming event on Friday September 8, 2023 at Kiran Restaurant. For further information contact Ashok Shah at 832-518-9938 or Janardan Thakkar at 713-249-4256.

Dear Editor,

By the time this letter is published, India’s Chandrayaan spacecraft would have had a safe landing on the southside of the moon, thus creating history for India as the fourth country to do so.

Down memory lane, I distinctly remember in 1997, how we at the American Society of Indian Engineers had celebrated India’s 50th. Independence Day in the SW Hilton Hotel with the central theme of India’s space technology. ISRO sent their scientist, Dr. Stayamurthy who came all the way from the Indian Embassy, Washington, DC and made a pre-

sentation on INSAT- IA,1B,1C satellites. That was a quarter of a century ago.

Since then, ISRO has come a long way and has proved to the entire world that India is no longer a country of Maharajas, magic carpets and snake charmers. Successful landing of Chandrayaan3 will not only answer the prayers of a billion and half people. It will also uplift the hopes and aspirations of millions of young engineers and entrepreneurs who look for exciting futuristic collaborative opportunities with ISRO Krishna Vavilala

Youth Program Blends Tradition, Tech at BAPS Festival of Inspirations

CoNTINUeD FroM PAGe 7 students shared candid experiences as they navigated some of the most challenging years of their life, before and during college, by reflecting on the intuitive foresight and support they received through Mahant Swami Maharaj’s verbal or written guidance.

The program featured an Augmented reality experience designed and implemented by the youths of BAPS. Augmented reality is an interactive experience in which a real world environment is enhanced with computer-generated visual elements, and sounds

The event was honored by the presence of several dignitaries, including Robbinsville Town-

key guests in attendance included Bharat Patel, Chairman of the Asian American Hotel Owners’ Association; Padmashri Dr. H.R. Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia; Dr. Gaurav Shah, CEO of Rocket Pharmaceuticals; Chi-

rag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal Pharmaceuticals; Grammy winner Falguni Shah; and Deborah Blakely, the Robbinsville Township Council President. In conclusion of the program, Mahant Swami Maharaj shared inspiring words with all in attendance. “The happiness and sorrows of this world will come and go for all, but if you keep your focus on prapti (spiritual attainment), then happiness and sorrows will not affect you,” he said, giving a lasting memory through loving guidance to the youth. Watch future events from the Festival of Inspirations LIVE at https://na.baps.org.

ship Council President Deborah Blakely, who shared motivating words with the youth. “Our journey is to find what you are passionate about, what brings you joy and fulfills you. Use them on your journey to get involved in your community, school, and where you worship.” Dr. Chirag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal Pharmaceuticals, remarked, “The world can look beautiful if you are spiritual. What you are doing here and what is passed to our generations to come is unthinkable and only can be done with the grace of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Mahant Swami Maharaj.”

During the assembly,

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