Local Organizations Join Indian Consulate in Hosting Viksit Bharat Run 2025
Houston: The Consulate General of India in Houston, jointly with MY Bharat, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, successfully organised the Viksit Bharat Run 2025 on 28 September 2025.
Held simultaneously across over 150 international locations, the event became a truly global celebration of service, fitness, and sustainability. The run in Houston drew enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, local communities, students, professionals, and friends of India.
The run was held as part of Seva Pakhwada (17 September - 2 October), and reflected the transformative progress India has achieved in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, technology, education, and sustainability under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The community in (city) reaffirmed its commitment to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed India, by joining the run.
Under the theme “Run to Serve the Nation,” participants from Houston came together for community runs of 3K/5K Walk/ Run, turning the event into a powerful statement of collectiveness. More than a fitness activity, the event celebrated the ideals of Seva Bhav (spirit of service) and
echoed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. It also embodied India’s Swadeshi ethos, highlighting the collective call for self-reliance, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility The turnout was remarkable, with over 900 runners, 50 volunteers, and more than 60 community organisations joining hands to
make the event a grand success. Pledge for a Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat
A key moment of the event was the collective recitation of the Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, where participants committed to contributing towards India’s journey of becoming a developed nation by 2047. This gesture brought
Houston closer to Indians across the globe, aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat and reinforcing a shared aspiration for growth, innovation, and global leadership.
Diaspora Engagement and Global Partnerships
The Viksit Bharat Run became a platform for diaspora engage-
ment and youth mobilisation, with Indian Missions partnering community groups, cultural bodies, and local organisations worldwide. It reinforced the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam –“the world is one family.”
From London and Paris to New York, Moscow, and Sydney, Indian communities ran together, taking pride in their heritage and reaffirming their role in India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat.
In Houston, Fort Bend County Judge KP George, Mr. Jeff Syptak – representing Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Ms. Alice Lee – representing Commissioner Lesley Briones’s office, Councilman Sanjay Singhal – representing the Mayor of Sugar Land’s office, Council Member Abhijit Utturkar – from the City of Fulshear and prominent leaders of Indian Diaspora graced the event, underscoring the importance of connecting India’s development story with the world.
A Landmark Global Celebration
The Viksit Bharat Run 2025 emerged as one of India’s largest global outreach initiatives. It carried a strong message of unity, resilience, and shared responsibility, while also showcasing India’s cultural and developmental strides. The run sowed seeds of hope and service for a stronger, more inclusive India.
Counsel General DC Manjunath inaugurating the Viksit Bharat run at George Bush park in Houston.
COMMUNITY
An Afternoon of Stories, Art & Insights at Arya Samaj Houston
Houston: Houston’s vibrant cultural and literary scene was on full display as Arya Samaj Houston hosted “An Afternoon of Stories, Art, & Insight” on September 21, 2025, a compelling event organized by Ranjana Vadhva Bedi and moderated by Preity Bhagia. The gathering featured New York Times best-selling author Varsha Bajaj, best-selling novelist Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, and multidisciplinary artist-poet Deepak Bedi. The trio captivated a packed audience with discussions on historical fiction, the power of untold stories, and the fusion of art and poetry.
Varsha Bajaj, a New York Times bestselling author best known for her award-winning book Thirst, spoke about her journey as a children’s and young adult author. She remarked that when she first went looking for a book for her daughter, she couldn’t find a single one with an Indian theme. This inspired her to write stories that reflect her heritage and give children the joy of seeing themselves represented on the page. Bajaj shared that she is especially proud of her book A Garland of Henna, which portrays three generations of a family — including a grandmother wearing a bindi — celebrating Indian tradition and togetherness. She encouraged aspiring writers to trust their voices and focus on stories that matter deeply to them.
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, best-selling author of The Last Queen, offered a deep dive into the painstaking research behind her historical novel about Maharani Jindan Kaur, the last queen of the Sikh Empire. Divakaruni described how she used archival paintings and historical records to resurrect the world of the 19th-
century queen, painting a vivid picture of a formidable and intelligent ruler who fought to protect her son and her kingdom. Emphasizing the theme of reclaiming forgotten narratives, she highlighted the importance of shifting history to “herstory” and giving voice to powerful women whose contributions have often been overlooked.
Complementing the literary narratives, artist and poet Deepak Bedi presented his introspective work from his book, Brilliant Thoughts. Bedi shared how he combines visual art and the written word to explore complex human emotions, identity, and the meaning of home. He described his poetry not as classical verse but as “thoughts” and “soliloquies” that invite readers to slow down and find meaning in the everyday.
The event concluded with a
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lively Q&A session. Bajaj, Divakaruni, and Bedi fielded questions from aspiring young writers about
discipline, inspiration, and the concept of “home” for global citizens.
The afternoon closed with a spe-
cial moment as a beautiful painting of Maharani Jindan Kaur was presented to Divakaruni, followed by a surprise dramatic monologue by Vaishali Dev portraying the queen, bringing Divakaruni’s historical narrative to life.
Once the formal presentations were over, the audience admired Deepak Bedi’s artwork and lined up to get their copies of Thirst, A Garland of Henna, The Last Queen, and Brilliant Thoughts signed by Bajaj, Bedi, and Divakaruni — engaging the authors in warm, lively conversation. Chai, samosas and sandwiches were well-received by the animated audience, rounding out an afternoon that celebrated art, literature, and community.
Divakaruni closed the event with a heartfelt reflection: “Stories and art are our bridges to the past and our guides to the future. When we honor our heritage, we give ourselves and the next generation a sense of home, no matter where in the world we are.”
Tirupati Balaji Grocers is Ready for Diwali !
Katy: He has been in the desi grocery business for 5 years and has developed a keen sense of what the public wants and how to reach them. Now Kaushal Patel has taken over the old KT Bombay Bazaar store, changed its name to Tirupati Balaji and given it a facelift with so many delicious items in colorful packaging that you feel like grabbing them all!
Kaushal is from Baroda, Gujarat and was the manager of the Desi Brothers grocery store in far south Highway 6 until the store changed hands and he went to Chicago for the past year to manage another store.
But his heart was in Houston and the warm weather brought him back. After buying the Katy store, he set his mind to bringing in a variety of products and revamping the kitchen with freshly made Indian snacks and fast food. Now he is set for a huge Diwali sale and grinned “we have the best prices in town because we were able to get our inventory before the 50% tariffs took place!” He’s counting on his customers finding his Diwali prices just too hard to pass up!!
Tirupati Balaji Grocers is located at 949 S. Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450. 281-578-7812
Artist-Poet Deepak Bedi (left) with authors Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni and Varsha Bajaj
Kaushal Patel
Fireworks, Cultural exhibitions, and a Message oF unity
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha to Host Two-Day Diwali Festival
Houston:
WHAT: BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in Houston, TX, invites the community to its annual Diwali festival, a multi-day celebration of the Hindu “Festival of Lights.” This year’s festivities will feature a unique two-day cultural exhibition, a vibrant Kids’ Diwali Carnival, a grand offering of over 1,000 vegetarian dishes (Annakut), a dazzling light and sound show, and a spectacular fireworks display on Diwali day. The theme of this year’s celebration is the “Journey of Unity,” an immersive exhibition designed to showcase how unity strengthens families and communities.
WHO: The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a global community-based spiritual organization.
WHEN:
Saturday, October 18 & Sunday, October 19, 2025:
Multi-day festival featuring:
Diwali Booths: Fun, hands-on displays to learn about the traditions of Diwali.
Journey of Unity: An immersive experience exploring the power of unity.
Maha Annakut Darshan: A breathtaking display of over 1,000 vegetarian dishes offered in devotion.
Kids’ Diwali Carnival: Carnival-style games, rides, and activities for children of all ages.
Light & Sound Show: A dazzling musical light show illuminating the Mandir.
Monday, October 20, 2025 (Diwali):
Diwali Mahapuja/Sharda Pujan: Traditional daytime prayer ceremonies.
Fireworks Display & Maha Arti: A grand finale with a spectacular fireworks show and evening rituals.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 (Hindu New Year):
Annakut Darshan: The Annakut will be open for viewing throughout the day, a symbol of gratitude and well wishes for the year ahead.
WHERE: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Houston, 1150 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477
DETAILS:
Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Houston is hosting a free, family-friendly event for the entire community to experience the rich traditions of Indian culture.
This year’s festival is designed to be more expansive and immersive than ever before. The brandnew sabha hall will be transformed into a cultural showcase, with engaging exhibitions and booths that promote BAPS’s community-focused activities. The centerpiece of the festival, the “Journey of Unity,” is a unique exhibition designed to inspire visitors to reflect on the importance of harmony in their own lives and in the world. Thousands of attendees from diverse backgrounds celebrating together.
The grand Maha Annakut, a vibrant and colorful offering of over 1,000 food dishes.
The spectacular fireworks display on the evening of October 20.
The mesmerizing Light & Sound Show projected onto the intricately carved Mandir.
Families and children enjoying the rides and games at the Kids’ Diwali Carnival.
Interviews with event organizers and community leaders.
ABOUT BAPS:
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service. It has a global network of over 3,850 centers and is an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
Third Annual Wild Tunes’ Concert Unites Music and Community
Houston: On Saturday, Sept. 27, nearly 150 animal lovers, musicians, and volunteers gathered for the third annual “Melodies of Gratitude” concert, raising funds and awareness for BARC Animal Shelter & Adoptions and Special Pals.
Hosted by Wild Tunes, a Houston-based national nonprofit founded by 10-year-old Yuvaanh “Yuvi” Agarwal to soothe shelter animals through live music, the concert raised over $68,000 to support more than 23,000 homeless animals.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our volunteers, performers, donors, and business partners. As we celebrate our third annual concert, it’s inspiring to
see how music and kindness continue to unite to brighten the lives of both people and animals,” said Priyanka Agarwal, Yuvi’s mom and executive director of Wild Tunes.
The proceeds from the concert will support BARC and Special Pals’ ongoing operations, specifically for animal care, community outreach, and education. A portion of the proceeds will also go towards Wild Tunes to support its mission of delivering live music to shelter animals.
Thanks to a supporter named Terry, all donations made to Wild Tunes through Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2 will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of every contribution. Through
this match, Terry is honoring the memory of her late husband Kenney and their beloved pups, Tessie “Sweet Girl,” and Little Lyla “Sweetie.” The Houston BARC Foundation has also agreed to match BARC’s portion of donations from the event, helping to care for even more pets.
Held at Resurrection MCC Church in Heights, the concert showcased Houston’s eclectic arts scene, featuring Yuvi Agarwal debuting an original piano piece, Kantara that reflects the sentiments of an animal who had been abandoned. There were also performances by the trio of Sarah McDonner, Emily Tallant, and John Markert, flamenco dancing by Undebel Flamenco, piano by
prodigy Paul Joseph Naïve, youth ensemble Soleil Music & Arts, piano by Zayden Lalani, and vocals and guitar by Suzanne Garza, and an original song by Dan DeHart. AJ Santana, Houston-based vocalist and guitarist, was the featured performer. In a heartwarming, immersive tribute—Across the Rainbow Bridge, Yuvi hoored deceased pets from all over the country with another original piece, Shakti.
Kara Willis, KIAH-39 reporter and animal advocate, served as the mistress of ceremonies.
In addition, Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy gave a few words about the impact of Wild Tunes on the lives of shelter animals residing at the Fort Bend County Animal Shelter.
Sonia Soto, director of community engagement for Houston City Council member Twila Carter, presented a certificate of appreciation to Yuvi in recognition of his success in creating and growing Wild Tunes.
“As a musician, I feel blessed that I can use my talent to make a difference to thousands of homeless animals. Thank you to all the fellow musicians for adding their incredible energy to the concert and to Houstonians for being here to support us. Our goal was to raise funds and awareness about the importance of providing care and comfort to shelter animals awaiting their forever homes through music,” said Yuvi. For more information about
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Homebound’: Soul-stirring Story of a Cold World
by renuKa VyaVaHare
Story: In a north Indian state, best friends Chandan Kumar (Vishal Jethwa) and Mohammed Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter) see the police uniform as their only escape and a shield against the caste and religion-based bigotry they face frequently. To them, the uniform symbolizes respect, access, and a rightful place at the table
Review: Though painfully aware of the ingrained societal hierarchy, it’s their youthful zest for life, hope for a better tomorrow, and unbreakable bond that keep them going. Their persistence and optimism are tested time and again, but things reach a breaking point when a nationwide lockdown due to Covid-19 separates them from their families and the place they call home.
Based on Kashmiri journalist Basharat Peer’s article in The New York Times titled ‘Taking Amrit Home’, Homebound hits like a thunderbolt, unleashing a whirlwind of emotions—personal, socio-political, and, above all, deeply humane. It not only compels you to confront your own privilege but also lays bare the complex layers of gender-based disparity and the dichotomies that persist within the marginalized. Chandan (Vishal Jethwa), born into a low-income Dalit household, hides his caste in the outside world to avoid social exclusion. Yet, despite his efforts, he remains emotionally isolated and scrutinized. At home, however, the dynamics shift. He is allowed to complete his graduation—so he doesn’t end up as a labourer like his parents. His older sister, Vaishali, isn’t given that choice. She’s expected to start supporting the family financially from an early age. Shoaib (Ishaan Khatter), an only child, is devoted to his ailing parents. Though his talent and integrity are acknowledged, he remains singled out because of his faith. Over time, the prejudice he faces erodes his inner tenderness.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Chandan and Shoaib find strength, solace, and a sense of belonging in each other. But when the pandemic hits, all hell breaks loose. Heart-wrenching and poignant, the brilliance of Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound lies in its quiet, unassuming, and unpreachy nature. With a perfectly paced two-hour runtime, the film never drags.
The narrative doesn’t feel agenda-driven—it simply holds up a mirror to society, serving as a stark and stirring commentary on our growing apathy. You don’t see the storm coming—but when it hits, it shakes you to the core and leaves you numb. Yes, it’s tragic, but the characters never indulge in selfpity or despair.
Long after the end credits roll, you’re still seated, overwhelmed, tears rolling down your cheeks. You no longer think of migrant workers as distant headlines, but as real people—individuals forced to leave behind their homes and families just to survive. You begin to question the system. And yourself. When did we stop feeling someone else’s pain? Most don’t get to make choices—especially when survival is at stake.
The story also delves into an existential dilemma—a cycle of sacrifice, children giving up their fu-
tures for ageing parents, and parents forsaking their own needs for their children. How fair is this? Is it love, duty, or an inherited burden? The film excels across the board—performance, storytelling, technical finesse, and dialogue
The writing by Shreedhar Dubey, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Varun Grover is deeply affecting. In one gut-wrenching moment, Chandan confesses the guilt of hiding his caste: “Sach bolte hain toh sabse dur ho jaate hain, aur jhooth bolte hain toh khud se.” (Tell the truth, and you’re alienated from the world. Tell a lie, and you’re alienated from yourself.)
From sound design and lighting to cinematography, each piece elevates the story. The background score by Naren Chandavarkar and Benedict Taylor adds quiet weight. Nitin Baid’s editing, Khyatee Kanchan’s production design, Rohit Chaturvedi’s costumes, and Jogi Mallang’s inspired casting all work in perfect sync to give the film its soul.
The performances are outstanding. Ishaan Khatter delivers a career-defining performance— measured, magnetic, and mature. With a powerful screen presence and wisdom beyond his years, he firmly cements his place among the best actors of his generation. Homebound is a role he truly deserves. Vishal Jethwa is equally riveting—raw, honest, and an absolute revelation. It’s refreshing to see him embody Chandan with such restraint and depth. Shalini Vatsa, as Chandan’s mother, leaves a lasting impression with quiet grace. Janhvi Kapoor is sincere in her brief appearance.
Homebound raises many questions. How did we get here? What has made us so bereft of empathy and compassion? A soul-stirring observation of a world growing cold, this is filmmaking at its finest... -- ToI
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