The Sikh Community is celebrating the 556th Prakash Divas of Guru Nanak Devji -- PAGES 10-11.
November 7, 2025
Ibn Sina Celebrates Diwali, Honoring Diversity & Community Spirit
Houston: Ibn Sina Foundation (Avicenna Clinicas) warmly celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, on Sunday, October 21, bringing together members of the community to honor the rich traditions, diversity, and cultural heritage that make Houston vibrant.
The event was attended by community and faith leaders, nonprofit leaders, elected officials, as well as families and children, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and community engagement.
Guests enjoyed traditional Diwali festivities, including a variety of authentic foods, cultural performances, and dance, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.
“This celebration reflects our dedication to embracing cultural diversity while strengthening community connections,” said Nasruddin Rupani, Chairman, Ibn Sina Foundation. “Diwali is not only a time for light and joy but also an opportunity to come together, share traditions, and celebrate the values that unite us.”
Ibn Sina Foundation continues to promote programs and events that highlight cultural understanding, community wellness, and inclusivity, reinforcing its mission to serve the people of Greater Houston with compassion and care.
About Ibn
to providing accessible, quality healthcare and community services to underserved and diverse populations across Greater Hous-
ton. Guided by the principles of compassion, equity, and community service, the Foundation operates a network of clinics and
community programs aimed at improving health, wellness, and social engagement.
Sina Foundation (Avicenna Clinicas): Ibn Sina Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated
Houston Raises $1 Million for Pakistan Flood Relief & Rehabilitation 2025
Houston: The Houston community once again demonstrated its compassion and unity as more than 300 guests gathered for the Pakistan Floods Relief & Rehabilitation 2025 Fundraising Gala, organized under the leadership of the Alliance for Disaster Relief (AFDR) in collaboration with Helping Hand for Relief & Development (HHRD), Pakistan American Association of Greater Houston (PAGH), APPNA South Texas Chapter (APPNA-STC), and the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association (HKSCA).
The event exceeded all expectations, raising over $1 million in cash and in-kind contributions — doubling the original target of $500,000. These funds will support ongoing rehabilitation projects across Pakistan, including medical aid, transitional housing, clean water initiatives, and school rebuilding for flood-affected families.
Mr. Syed Javaid Anwar, Chief Guest and Chief Patron of the Alliance for Disaster Relief (AFDR) and the Houston-Karachi Sister City Association, made a remarkable personal contribution of $150,000 and delivered a deeply moving address on the power of compassion and shared responsibility. Reflecting on his lifelong journey of philanthropy, Mr. Anwar remarked, “If you are blessed, let’s share it.” He shared how, throughout his life, he has witnessed that whenever one gives selflessly, Allah (SWT) rewards that generosity many times over. His heartfelt words and outstand-
ing leadership inspired the audience and played a pivotal role in helping the community exceed its goal, turning the evening into a landmark success.
Mr. Aftab Choudhary, Consul General of Pakistan in Houston, commended the Pakistani-American community for their warmhearted response and consistent support in times of crisis, expressing gratitude for their continued solidarity with the people of Pakistan.
Mr. Javaid Siddiqui, CEO of Helping Hand for Relief & Development (HHRD), delivered the welcome address, emphasizing that “every dollar contributed
makes a tangible difference for families in Pakistan, Gaza, and other regions in need.”
Following him, Mr. Muhammad Saeed Sheikh, Coordinator of the Houston Alliance for Pakistan Floods Relief and Rehabilitation Efforts 2025, extended heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries, partners, and donors. He also outlined the next phase of AFDR’s planned relief operations and long-term rehabilitation efforts in collaboration with HHRD and local partners. Mr. Ilyas Choudhary, representing HHRD Houston, presented an impressive progress report highlighting both past achievements and upcoming rehabilitation proj-
ects designed to restore livelihoods, schools, and healthcare services in affected regions.
Motivational messages were shared by Assistant Chief of Police Yasir Bashir and Hamza Ghia, who inspired the audience with reflections on community unity, leadership, and service.
warmth and professionalism brought grace and structure to the evening’s program.
Special gratitude was extended to Medical Bridges and its President & CEO, Mr. Walter Ulrich, for their continued partnership and contribution of medical equipment and supplies to Pakistan. Media partners were also recognized for their extensive coverage and continued collaboration in promoting humanitarian initiatives.
Special recognition was given to the committee members whose commitment played a key role in the evening’s success: Sameer Khan, Mehmood Ahmed, Shahzaib Sheikh, Maria Usmani, Saad Beg, and the PSA Team including Farah Iqbal, Abdulrehman Patel, and Mian Nazir.
The Alliance for Disaster Relief (AFDR) reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its mission of service, transparency, and community collaboration in partnership with HHRD and all supporting organizations.
About the Alliance for Disaster Relief (AFDR)
COMMUNITY
Prominent community leaders including Haroon Sheikh, Ahmed Alyasin, Javaid Ashraf, Dr. Naveed Saqib, Faheem Khawaja, and Siraj Narsi were also acknowledged for their generous support and partnership in achieving the targeted funds.
The event was skillfully moderated by Ms. Sobia Siddiqui, whose
The Alliance for Disaster Relief is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (Tax ID: 82-3520482) dedicated to coordinating emergency response and rehabilitation programs for disaster-affected regions, particularly in Pakistan and South Asia. AFDR unites community organizations and individuals under the mission of “Blessings in Unity” to deliver aid effectively and compassionately.
A Bhajan Mahotsav before Masterji Indravan Trivedi Sets Off Again!
By JawaHar MalHotra
Houston: Just two years ago, Masterji Indravadan Trivedi completed a multi-city trip to north and west India to spread knowledge about his ambitious “Go Green” plan to “raise self-awareness of one’s place in the world and impart practical spiritual education.” He then went to India in February this year to celebrate Vasant Panchami at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. He was even the central figure in the Kumbh Mela float at the Sri Sita Ram Foundation’s DusserahDiwali Mela at Constellation Field in October.
Even though he has moved far away from Houston to The Woodlands and does not drive, it’s impossible to keep creative plans away from his fertile imagination. This past Sunday, November 2, Masterji celebrate Tulsi Vivah at the Hindu Worship Society in the morning and by the evening, he was heading up a cast of several singers in the Bhajan Mahotsav at the ISSO Temple on Synott Road. As he sang with deep joy, he was accompanied by Hemant and Deepti Dave, S. Vaghela Bapu, Poojan Patel and Dilip Nayak with
Sponsor Gopal Aggarwal
special guest Ravi Shankar, performing in front of a hall full of admiring temple devotees. GSH President Girish Naik emceed the event.
Three days later, Masterji set off on his latest project - Tulsi Abhiyan 2047 - that will share the healing powers of the Holy Basil
Tara Capital.
or Sacred Basil, an aromatic shrub from the mint family. “In 2021, I started a project to donate 110,000 tulsi seeds and plants all across the world,” he said. He plans to visit Japan, Taiwan, Singapore and end in India, a tour partially sponsored by the Rotary Club and intends to be back in Houston in 5 months.
Masterji Indravadan Trivedi being presented a trophy by Bhajan Mahotsav Gold
of
Masterji receiving a tilak from Pt Bhawani Shankar Shastri at the Tulsi Vivah at the Hindu Worship Society.
Commissioner Andy Meyers Declares Oct. 31 as VHP A Day in Fort Bend
sugar land: Heritage is the back ground,traditions and values passed down from generations which includes culture and ethnic identity
Since last five years, VHP A ( Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America) observes a month of OCTOBER as HHM as most festivals like Navratri, Durga puja, Dasaharaa and Deepavali come in this month
In proclamation, County Commissioner Precinct 3, W.A.”Andy” Meyers says VHP A works tirelessly to strengthen and uplift communities, transform lives and build enduring bridges of understanding among people of all backgrounds by following timeless principle of “VASUDHAIVA KUTUMBAKAM””
He further says, since its founding, VHP A has united the Hindu diaspora by preserving and promoting Hindu identity, culture and values enriching American society through festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and other observances that foster joy,unity ,and mutual respect within communities.
He adds, “VHP A examplifies the spirit of Sewa(selfless service) through its numerous humanitarian efforts, including food drives, student support programs, and disaster relief initiatives.”
W A,”Andy” Meyers ,County Commissioner ,Precinct 3 Proclaimed October 31st 2025 as the VHP A Day in Fort Bend County, Texas
Turning On the Inner Light at the Sienna Diwali Festival of Lights
Missouri City: At this year’s Diwali Festival of Lights in Sienna Plantation, Missouri City, something deeper than sparkling lamps and joyful dances illuminated the night. Awakened Zen Master Thich Dieu Thien (AZM TDT), founder and enlightened guiding teacher of the Universal Door Meditation Center in Sugar Land, offered a profound wisdom talk and guided meditation on “Returning to Who We Truly Are — the Awakened Mind.”
The festival’s organizers had long sought a way to help people experience the true meaning of Diwali, not only during the celebration, but in daily life. When AZM TDT was invited, the event blossomed into a moment of awakening. In a world full of chaos and confusion, she guided everyone to touch the timeless truth within.
Amid the lively sounds and excitement, the crowd came together for a rare 45minute stillness, to experience something beyond religion or culture: the Awakened Light inside each person. Through her talk,
AZM TDT awakened the innate wisdom of the audience, helping them to recognize who they truly are, and are not.
The session concluded with a moving dance and song performed by her students, carrying her radiant message:
“There is a gift from the Awakened Ones—
I’d like to share it with my family, my friends, all beings.
Pass the light on… let the Awakened wisdom light shine on.”
Her message touched hearts and reminded everyone that Diwali is not just a Festival of Lights, but about becoming the light—of wisdom, peace, and compassion—and sharing it in our homes and communities.
The celebration reflected AZM TDT’s Great Vow: to awaken the enlightenment potential in all beings and free the root of suffering. As this truth continues to spread, such moments are quietly lighting up the world: one heart, one community, one celebration at a time.
Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers presents the county proclamation to VHP A leadership.
Dr. Dhananjay Sagdeo’s Four Decades of Service to Wayanad Tribals
By JuHi VarMa
Houston: The Hindu community in Houston recently had the honor of hosting Padma Shri winner Dr. Dhananjay Sagdeo.
Dr. Sagdeo has dedicated his life to serving the adivasi tribes of Wayanad, Kerala, bringing them healthcare and modern medicine — an extraordinary act of service that earned him the prestigious award in 2021.
This was his first visit to the United States, and he was warmly welcomed at several gatherings across the country, including a special event at the Katy home of Rajesh and Bhagyashree Patwari.
“This award I give to our workers of Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission, because only with the help of workers of was this possible,” Dr Sagdeo said when asked about his Padma Shri.
His younger brother, Dr. Vivek Sagdeo, came to the U.S. in 1980 and now lives in Cupertino. He said he’s delighted to see his brother’s work being recognized.
The entire family, he added, has always been proud and supportive and was overjoyed to hear the news of the Padma Shri.
“We really didn’t expect a Padma Shri, so it was a very pleasant surprise, and I’m very happy,” Dr. Vivek Sagdeo said. “People hear ‘Padma Shri’ and we get invited to a lot of places, I’m also enjoying that.”
Dr. Dhananjay Sagdeo (seated center), his wife Sujata and brother Dr. Vivek Sagdeo were warmly welcomed at several gatherings across the country, including a special event at the Katy home of Rajesh and Bhagyashree Patwari. (Photo by Anagha Patwari)
Today, Dr. Sagdeo serves as the Chief Medical Officer of the Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission (SVMM) in Wayanad. SVMM is a charitable organization established in 1972 by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh to provide healthcare to the region’s underserved tribal population.
Deeply inspired by the philosophy and ideals of the RSS, Dr. Sagdeo said that as a young man, he had felt a strong calling to use his medical training where it was needed most.
One of the major health challenges faced by the region’s tribal communities is sickle cell anemia (SCD), a serious genetic blood disorder. Dr. Sagdeo was awarded the Padma Shri for his pioneering work in tackling SCD among these communities. Through early diagnosis initiatives and sustained involvement in tribal health, he helped bring national attention to a long-overlooked but urgent public health issue.
In 2024, SVMM expanded its reach internationally with the launch of its U.S. chapter, headquartered in Cupertino. Dr. Vivek Sagdeo serves as president.
In addition to healthcare and counseling, SVMM places a strong emphasis on education.
School dropout rates in Wayanad are alarmingly high, as many chil-
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dren leave school to work and support their families. Cherukara, a village with a large Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe population, reflects this reality.
To address the issue, Sree Sankara Primary School was established in 2002 in the forested region of Cherukara. Over the years, it has grown to include classes up to Grade 7 and now serves 200 students.
The school relies on donations to sustain its work. A contribution of $250 can cover a child’s tuition, books, and transportation for an entire year. Most of the funds go toward teachers’ salaries and transportation costs. Your support can make a meaningful difference in these children’s lives.
Payment methods: Zelle: svmma25@gmail.com Venmo: 669-320-8012.
Meet Dr. Dhananjay Diwakar Sagdeo
Dr Sagdeo has been serving the people of Muttil village in Kerala’s Wayanad district for more than 40 years.
The second of four brothers, young Ajay—as he was affectionately called by friends and family—grew up in a middle-class education-oriented household in Nagpur. He earned his MBBS degree from Indira Gandhi Medical College Nagpur in 1980.
While working in the rural outskirts of Nagpur, he witnessed firsthand the lack of medical care and necessities among the tribal communities. Although he had a promising future ahead as a well-paid, respected doctor in a city hospital, he chose a different path—leaving it all behind to run a small medical facility in remote Muttil entirely on his own. The distance between Nagpur (Maharashtra) and Wayanad (Kerala) is nearly 1,500 kilometers by road.
In due course, his one-man dispensary grew into a well-equipped 36-bed hospital, with mobile medical units. (SEWA International USA funded an SCD testing machine.)
Treating the tribal communities was at first challenging, not
only because of their resistance to modern medicine but also due to language barriers. Dr. Sagdeo, who grew up speaking Marathi, Hindi, and English, moved to a state where Malayalam is the official language, while the tribals themselves spoke their own distinct dialect. He overcame these challenges and eventually built a strong connection with the community.
“These tribes, they are all distributed,” said Dr. Vivek Sagdeo. “They don’t even have villages or hamlets. They were basically nomads. Some of them became laborers and learned Malayalam, but many have their own kind of language. So yes, the initial issue for my brother was to learn the language, because he didn’t know the language.”
Once influenced by Christian missionaries and Naxalites, the tribals gradually regained their cultural footing through SVMM’s efforts, which encouraged them to preserve and celebrate their traditional tribal heritage.
“The Christian missionaries try to convert and also there are the Naxalites,” said Dr. Vivek Sagdeo. “So we want to prevent those forces from taking over, because they (the adivasis) are very innocent. These people go and try to kind of bribe them, or train them, brainwash them. So I’m glad of the work we are doing.”
Dr. Dhananjay Sagdeo and his wife, Sujata, have two daughters, Gayatri and Aditi. Gayatri is a doctor, while Aditi is an engineer. Dr. Sagdeo, Sujata, and Gayatri live in Muttil, where they care for patients and manage the organization.
Divine Images of Lord Shiva in Their Home Deepens New Jersey Family’s Faith
Edison, NJ: We are basking in the afterglow of Diwali, our Christmas and New Year rolled into one. While upholding our traditions, we should respect others’ festivals too. “Knowing that all religions are paths to One God will bring us closer together, healing a fractured world,” says Abhishek Mishra, whose faith in the Divine was strengthened by mysterious events unfolding in their home in Edison, NJ.
Mishra has reached out to the community papers, sharing naturally formed (Swayambhu) images of Shiva appearing in their 25 Lavender Drive home. The family and their friends were stunned to witness these sacred formations. “We feel Lord Shiva’s divine presence on our property,” he says.
Among the astonishing manifestations at the Mishra house was a Shivling formed during the winter snow, while a 50-foot image of Lord Shiva holding a trident appeared in the backyard snow. Inside, an image of Shiva with Nandi was discerned on the bathroom tiles, and another meditative form of Shiva emerged from ice. Many people have been eager to witness this spiritual marvel. For believers, the formations at the Mishra house are a sign of divine blessings, strengthening their own faith and devotion. Abhishek Mishra, an intuitive individual, wants to inspire faith in a Divine Power, referred to by different names across religions and worshipped in various forms. Aligning with that Divine Power will make our worldly life happy,
Abhishek Mishra of Edison, NJ, inspires people to recognize the existence of a Divine Power.
peaceful, and prosperous, he believes.
The Mishras is an accomplished family. With a master’s in computer science from NYIT, he worked in the IT industry for 20 years at Fortune 500 companies. His wife, Namita, has a master’s in computer engineering from Stevens Institute and has worked for top firms. Their son is pursuing a master’s in computer science, and their daughter is a genetic counselor. Abhishek Mishra can be contacted on 732.690.0404 for more information. Or email abhishek_am3@yahoo. com
A collage of images of Lord Shiva that manifested in the Edison, NJ home of the Mishras.
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Taj
Story’:
By aBHisHeK sriVastaVa
Story: Vishnu Das, a tour guide at the Taj Mahal, faces public humiliation after a video of his candid opinions about the monument goes viral. Determined to reclaim his dignity, he sets out on a quest to uncover what he believes is the real story behind the Taj.
Review: ‘The Taj Story’ follows a familiar path reminiscent of films like ‘The Kerala Story’ and ‘The Bengal Files.’ It attempts to unravel what it calls the “real” history of the Taj Mahal, suggesting through dramatized research and testimonies that the monument was once a palace owned by King Jai Singh and later acquired by Emperor Shah Jahan.
The film uses its narrative to project this interpretation with conviction. The first half holds attention as Vishnu Das, the protagonist, fights to have his public interest litigation taken up by the court. But the second half becomes bogged down in repetitive arguments, counterarguments, and lengthy court scenes that dilute its impac
Narratively, ‘The Taj Story’ lacks creative spark—it unfolds in a linear fashion with no real surprises. The first half works better as it captures Vishnu’s family life and his determination to stand by his beliefs.
But the courtroomheavy second half becomes a slog, filled with expert testimonies, threats, and predictable dramatic beats. The tension feels rehearsed, and the dialogue-heavy exchanges test one’s patience. -- ToI
A Trial of Patience
Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.
Send us the correct answer before November 11, 2025. Email us at indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Please send us your solved Sudoku for your name to be published.
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