Indo-American News: April 5, 2024

Hindu Worship Society Brings Vibrant Holi Celebrations to Houston

By Kapil Sharma

houSton: Amidst the blooming spirit of spring, the Hindu Worship Society (HWS) hosted a jubilant celebration of Holi, the festival of colors, on 31st March at the oldest Hindu temple in the Houston area. Established in 1969, the HWS temple stood as a beacon of cultural richness, social connection, collective celebration, and spiritual devotion as over 300 devotees gathered this weekend to partake in the festivities.

While last weekend marked the celebration of the traditional Holika dahan, this weekend’s Holi celebrations started with heartfelt prayers to Lord Krishna, the deity symbolizing eternal love and compassion. As chants of bhajans filled the air, devotees immersed themselves in the divine atmosphere, seeking blessings and embracing the community spirit of the occasion.

Young talents shone brightly as Neil Sharma, 13, captivated the audience with a soulful flute recital of Ramcharitmanas and Shiv Tandav Stotram, while Rohin Joshi, also 13, enthralled with a masterful tabla performance adding rhythm to the devotional songs and chants. Meanwhile, children and youth eagerly engaged in painting activities, adorning t-shirts and posters with the themes and colors of Holi.

The fervor peaked with a lively celebration of Holi in the temple’s parking lot, where Holi and dance music filled the temple grounds, accompanied by energetic Bollywood and Indian folk dancing. The highlight was the joyous exchange of the colors of gulaal, which transformed the temple, and the revelers, into a kaleidoscope of hues, while the laughter and splashes of water enhanced the festivities, creating an unforgettable spectacle of community revelry and celebration.

Witnessing the temple adorned with energy and creativity, attendees marveled at the dedication of the volunteers who tirelessly contributed to the event’s success, exemplifying HWS’ commitment to community unity. The diligent efforts of young volunteers, from event preparation to managing Holi celebrations, showcased HWS’ dedication to nurturing the next generation of devotees.

With a renewed zeal for community outreach and spiritual enrichment, HWS eagerly anticipates continuing its tradition of cultural festivities that resonate with Houstonians. For updates on upcoming events, visit www.hwstemple. org and follow their new Facebook page @hwstemple.

Holi arti Reveling in Holi colors

COMMUNITY

Children’s Museum Celebrates Holi with Hindus of Greater Houston

houSton: Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) welcomed the Spring season and brought the joy of Holi celebration to the broader community by hosting events at Children’s Museum Houston and Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center (FBCDC) in Sugar Land. The events were held on Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, 24th.

HGH worked in partnership with CMH to conceive and design Holi celebrations which are age appropriate for children from 5 to 14 years of age. An outdoor area was set up in the courtyard for the event.

Children were delighted to play and throw colored Gulaal on each other while Bollywood Holi songs played. Parents danced to the music as the children enjoyed the freedom and joy to color each other with abandon.

Children were given the option to wear a poncho and protective goggles, so that they can continue to visit rest of the museum. Inside the museum, HGH distributed pamphlets which explained what Holi is, how it is celebrated, the stories behind it and its place and influence on popular culture, music and art. Parents were delighted to have the information which they can read to kids at home. HGH also gave away Gulaal in six different colors for kids and parents

Kids spin a color wheel to get matching Gulaal color bags home. Parents get pamphlet telling the Holi stories, why, how and where it is celebrated.

to take home.

Many learnt about Holi for the

first time and some had heard of it before but never had the opportu-

nity to experience the joy of colors themselves. The event was very

well received and feedback from the parents and kids was effusive.

Stephanie Weisinger, Gallery Programs Coordinator of CMH said, “This is our first time partnering with HGH to bring Holi to the Houston community. This was a great success. The feedback from parents and kids has been terrific.”

She added that, “We can expand this to accommodate more children next year and make it available to a broader audience including the parents to celebrate with their kids and friends”.

Last October, HGH partnered with CMH and FBCDC to celebrate Diwali with Rangoli activity for children. HGH Board member Chetan Davé said, “We are delighted with our growing partnership with CMH to make Hindu holidays more accessible to the broader community. We started with Diwali, the festival of lights. Now Holi, festival of colors! We are building a long-term partnership with CMH for the benefit of the broader community and sharing our culture with cheer and joy.”

HGH is also advising CMH on an upcoming interfaith exhibit at CMH next year which seeks to foster unity and understanding among all faith communities in Houston.

Families of three generations together gathered at Holi table

Daughter applying Gulaal to mom. Kids got to take Gulaal bags home.

Photo time for parents

Houston Maharashtra Mandal Hosts Memorable Holi Event

houSton: Houston Maharashtra Mandal (HMM) recently hosted a remarkable Holi event on their own land in Rosenberg, TX, captivating approximately 700 attendees with a celebration brimming with colors and culture. With meticulous planning and an array of festivities, the event seamlessly blended the essence of Holi with Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, delivering an unforgettable experience.

The festivities commenced as a free event for HMM members with vibrant bursts of color, as attendees engaged in water balloon fights and danced to the beats of DJ music. The addition of water slides added excitement, ensuring enjoyment for all ages. An exceptional feature of the event was the provision of organic colors. This eco-conscious initiative promoted sustainability and ensured participants could revel in Holi’s spirit without hesitation.

In reverence to tradition, a Holika Dahan pooja was held, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Attendees gathered around the sacred fire, offering prayers for prosperity and happiness. Amidst the festivities, this moment of reflection fostered unity and reverence.

Following the rituals, guests enjoyed a Maharashtrian Puranpoli lunch, showcasing the state’s culi-

nary heritage. From Puranpoli’s to flavorful rice and curries, the feast delighted the senses and left guests satisfied. HMM ensured every aspect of the Holi event exceeded expectations.

Attendees were immersed in a holistic experience celebrating Holi’s joyous spirit and Maharashtra’s cultural richness. As the colorful memories of Holi fade, the meticulously orchestrated event will endure as a testament to community, cultural pride, and unity. Such events bring people together, transcending boundaries, and enriching lives with celebrations.

COMMUNITY

JVB conducts 22nd Annual Family Camp - “Search for Existence”

By Kuldeep lunia

auStin: “One who NEGLECTS or DISREGARDS the EXISTENCE of EARTH, AIR, FIRE, WATER and VEGETATION DISREGARDS his OWN EXISTENCE which is ENTWINED with them.” - Lord Mahavir.

Under the spiritual guidance and presence of Samani Arjav Pragyaji, Samani Samyaktva Pragyaji Samani Abhay Pragyaji and Samani Swati Pragyaji, JVB Preksha Meditation Center, Houston conducted its 22st Annual 3-day Family Retreat Camp at Radha Madhav Dham in Austin, TX from March 29-31st 2024. Over 120 participants from Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin and Michigan came to nurture their souls through powerful discourses, yoga, meditation, and relaxation techniques while enjoying the calm and scenic surroundings.

The camp commenced on Friday with Gaurav Jhaveri, JVB President, delivering the welcome note. JVB Director, Pramod Bengani hosted the “Ice-breaking” session where the attendees and their families introduced themselves. After the introduction, Samani Arjav Pragyaji started the program with the topic “EVOLVE” where she gave us the concept of “Negative Thank you” and 15 min of Positive thinking. Parallel ses-

sion for youth from ages 13 to 17 years was conducted by Samini Samyaktva Pragyaji on the topic

“REINVENT..EVOLVE..LEAD” and sessions for Kids from 8 to 12 yrs old were conducted by Samani Swati Pragyaji on the topic “Doctor-Doctor”. Session for kids from 3 to 7 yrs was conducted by Samani Abhay Pragya on the topic

“FUN and LEARN”.

First time participants, Dhanesh

& Pinal Shah said “Big shout out to all JVB volunteers for planning, coordination and execution of a memorable camp. Although this was the first time for me and my wife, we felt as if we have been coming here for ages. Kudos to all JVB family and attendees for driving inclusiveness. We not only bring back great memories from the camp but lifelong associations. Thank you again for in-

cluding us.”

Saturday and Sunday morning sessions started with powerful “Bhaktambar” shlok recital by Samani Abhay Pragyaji followed by Meditation and Yoga Session by Upma Chauhan. Samaniji briefly explained the importance of Bhaktambar, Samayak, Meditation and how it can help us in our daily lives. The session indeed recharged and filled everyone with

positive energy. A parallel session was conducted for kids as well.

The Samanis led 9 more interactive and learning sessions throughout the camp which included lectures, presentations and practical experiments on different meaningful topics of “SEARCH FOR EXISTENCE”. Samani Abhay Pragyaji spoke on topic “CUSTOMIZED LIVING” where she explained that we should have ANGER, EGO, DECEIT, GREED and should replace it by FORGIVENESS, HUMBLE, SIMPLICITY, SATISFACTION. Samani Samyaktva pragyaji spoke on the topic “RADIANT LIVING” where she taught us how to work without ANGER. Samani Swati Pragyaji Spoke on the topic “ACTIVE or PASSIVE EXISTENCE” which was about “power of questions” and how parents can be role model for their kids. Samani Abhay Pragyaji spoke on the topic “ROADLESS TRAVEL” where she described the importance of setting up boundaries for desire and awareness.

The retreat had concurrent youth programs, where they focused learning on various fun-filled topics such as “Exploring Jainism in Daily life”, “My Life - My Rules”, ”Inner Make-up Vs Outer Make-up”, “Be a Lion”, “Conquer the Real world” and other creative

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JVB Preksha Meditation Center, Houston conducted its 22st Annual 3-day Family Retreat Camp at Radha Madhav Dham in Austin, TX from March 29-31st 2024. Over 120 participants from Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin and Michigan came to nurture their souls through powerful discourses.

Winter 2023 TCC Taped Ball Tournment: JCC Winners, Gladiators Runners Up

houSton: Winter Final 2023 for TCC Taped Ball was played on a beautiful day for cricket on 23rd March 2024. The final was between Gladiators, the 5-time champions in their 11th final and JCC, a one time champion in their second final.

JCC won the toss and elected to bat. Starting the innings JCC was at 14 runs in 3 overs. After a cautious start, Ronak got out to Vinayan. Facing disciplined bowling, Narsimha, Tapan and Anand tried to steady the ship but got out with scorecard now reading 34/4. Pragnesh, together with Abhi, started to get some rhythm and began rotating the strike a bit freely. Abhi utilizing paddle sweep to get some 3’s and odd boundaries. On the other end, Pragnesh(20) playing classic square and late cuts to keep the scorecard ticking. Both moved the scorecard to 91/4 in 15 overs. In the end overs, JCC scored 37 runs in last 5 overs by Abhi with support from Hiren, Vismay, Amish and Harpal. Vinayan, Sandeep and Ninad each took 2 wickets for Glads.

Needing a bit over 6 runs an over, Gladiators batters Sanman and Ruvent started confidently scoring 46/0 in 7 overs. However, Anand struck in his first over getting Ruvent. He struck again getting a well-set Sanman, thanks to

Winter 2023 Champions: JCC

Winter 2023 Runners Up; Gladiators

a flying catch by Pragnesh. With some timely wickets by JCC bowlers, Glads were in trouble needing 47 in 5 overs. Aradhya and Suresh, new to crease, hit some timely boundaries taking 23

in next two, bringing the equation to manageable 24 in 3 overs and then 9 runs in last over. JCC’s last over specialist Harpal got Aradhya out on 3rd ball and now Glads needed 5 in the last two balls and

one wicket. Sandeep hit one off the middle and skied towards the midwicket boundary. Tapan took the catch at the rope to get the final man. A nail biting final!!! JCC won the game by 4 runs, winning the trophy for the 2nd time in the league. Great performances by Abhi (60 runs and 1 wicket) and Anand (5 wicket haul). Good catches under pressure by Sachin, Vismay, Ronak and Hiren. Good tight bowling in middle overs by Amish and Vismay and Narsimha. Anand was adjudged MVP for his performance. The presentation ceremony was organized by Jagadish Biradar and as always, was enjoyable. Jagadish mentioned contributions by Dinesh from Gladiators for his voluntary efforts in creating league schedules for each tournament and presented a thank you note to him. TCC also recognized the contribution of all the teams throughout the season for umpiring.

Kastech Kings got a special mention for upholding the spirit of the game. More than once, Kastech Kings were called out for exemplary show of sportsman spirit. They took decisions which were against their team and held the spirit of the game high and aloft and shining brightly!! Kudos to Kastech Kings and let them be a motivation and inspiration to all

playing teams of TCC Taped Ball tournaments.

Gladiators’ captain Emad accepted the runner up trophy and gracefully talked about contributions from each team member. JCC captain Pragnesh in his first season as captain accepted the Finals trophy. He outlined how JCC was undefeated and topped the table out of 37 teams.

Anand from JCC was the MVP for the final for his match winning performance. Abhinav from JCC was adjudged MVP of the series. In tournament awards, From RSCC, Sai Kiran was best batsmen with 300 runs and Shashivardhan Reddy was best bowler with 15 wickets. Khurram Khan from Champions CC II was best all rounder for the season(209 runs and 10 wickets). Special awards included Sai Kiran (Royal Strikers), Gagan Nayakwadi (Masters), Sukitha Pallimulla (Tuskers – 2 centuries), Gihan Senanayake (Tuskers) for centuries and Naani Sai Reddy (Royal Strikers) for a hat trick.

Online score card: https://cricclubs.com/3T/fullScorecard. do?matchId=1936&clubId=8675

YouTube link: https://youtu.be/ XllHNQIwMKk

TCC Website report link https:// triggerscricket.com/?page_ id=197

FINE ARTS

A Night to Remember at Gopaal Seyn’s RedBlueArts Gallery

By SanChali BaSu

houSton: On March 25th, the RedBlueArts Gallery was abuzz with an air of celebration and inspiration as it hosted a remarkable art reception. The event marked a significant milestone for a dedicated group of students and their mentor Gopaal Seyn, whose collective artistic journey reached a new pinnacle of recognition and appreciation.

The gallery, known for its vibrant ambiance and support for emerging talent, transformed into a space of shared dreams and achievements. The walls, adorned with a diverse array of artworks, spoke volumes of the students’ dedication and their mentor’s guidance. Each piece, unique in its expression, invited onlookers into a world where color, form, and texture intertwined to tell stories of passion, perseverance, and creativity.

The evening was further elevated by the presence of esteemed dignitaries who took the time to immerse themselves

JVB 32nd Family Camp

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and playing activities conducted by different Saminis along with volunteer teachers.

The kid sessions were also conducted by Samanis on the different topics like “Lights, Camera, Action”, “White-White BrightBright”, “Static Movement”.

An 8 year old participant said “Food was amazing and I had a lot of fun. I want to come again”

Everyone participated in the cultural eve on Saturday, where they expressed and shared their learning. 6 different teams were formed out of which 3 teams had to create an instant story based on a topic given by Samaniji which should be based on things they had learned in the camp. Balance 3 teams had to prepare a 4 to 5 min skit on a story created by other teams. The youth team also created an instant story and enacted it. Creativity peaked in each of the team skits, and the audience enjoyed the entertaining fun presentations. Nitesh Jain and Rajat Khater played the perfect host for the evening.

All participants applauded the great assemblages of programs, activities, and the way arrangements were handled professionally by the JVB team. Food arrangements were handled by Sarika Gandhi & Anju Bengani and few other volunteers.

A 15 year old participant Manya commented “the camp leaves us bonded with unforgettable memories. Personally, I learnt a lot from Samanijis and enjoyed every moment during the camp. I also made new friends and am looking forward to participating next year.”

The Annual camp concluded with a halfan-hour interaction with families. JVB Director Pramod Bengani moderated the feedback session with the families. He expressed gratitude to Samanijis, all attendees and volunteers for making this a memorable and successful event for one and all. JVB Executive committee comprising of Gaurav Jhaveri, Kuldeep Lunia, Pradeep Jain, and Harshad Parakh handled the execution along with the help of several volunteers. JVB President Gaurav Jhaveri gave a vote of thanks and asked for forgiveness for any oversight from attenddes. Samaniji brought the event to a successful close by reciting Mangal Paath. Everyone parted while taking the excellent learnings from the camp and a vow to come back next year.

JVB Preksha Meditation Center is home to a specially designed Preksha Dhyan ‘Pyramid’ Meditation Hall and is located at 14102 Schiller Rd, Houston, TX 77082. For more information and current & upcoming programs please visit www. jvbhouston.org or call 281.596.9642

in the artistic experience and offer their words of wisdom. Consul General D.C. Manjunath, physician Dr. Subodh Buchar, Executive Director

IACCGH, Jagdip Aluwalia, Board Member and Secretary. Ashok Garg along with other notable figures from the community, provided a touchstone of encouragement for the young artists. Their inspiring speeches not only celebrated the present accomplishments but also ignited the flames of ambition for future endeavors.

As the night progressed, the gallery resonated with conversations about art’s impact on society and the role of artists as cultural ambassadors.

The students, standing proudly beside their creations, engaged with guests, sharing their artistic visions and the stories be-

hind their works. The mentor Mr Seyn, witnessing the fruition of their collective efforts, reflected on the journey that led to this momentous occasion.

The art reception at RedBlueArts Gallery was more than just an exhibition; it was a testament to the power of mentorship, the importance of community support, and the boundless potential of aspiring artists. It was an evening that will be etched in the memories of all who attended, serving as a beacon of inspiration for the vibrant future of art.

This event not only showcased the talent of the students but also reinforced the significance of art in fostering cultural connections and dialogue. It was a night that celebrated art, inspired dreams, and honored the spirit of learning and growth.

Gopaal Seyn with one of the winners. flanked by Jadip Aluwalia and CG Manjunath on the left, and Subodh Bhuchar and Ashok Garg on the right.

‘Crew’: Funny, Frivolous, and Delectable

Story: Circumstances lead three hustlers to a gold smuggling racket. It’s all fun and games until conscience comes calling.

Review: Girls gotta have some fun and Bollywood is finally listening.

Co-workers Geeta Sethi (Tabu), Jasmine Kohli (Kareena Kapoor Khan) and Divya Rana (Kriti Sanon) serve looks and then some hospitality to the passengers of Kohinoor airlines. The undisputed drama queens have their own battles to fight and lies to hide. Nothing unites employees more than their collective misery and that forges an unlikely bond between the three air hostesses. When they discover that their debt-ridden airline is on the verge of bankruptcy, the women are compelled to seek desperate measures for survival. Necessity is the mother of invention and sometimes, even crime.

Crew has a smooth take-off boasting of a terrific first half and a bumpy landing. The fastpaced comic thriller entertains at all times even when the climax gets too convenient, ditzy or far-fetched. The heist bit isn’t

clever and doesn’t pretend to be clever either, which works. Humour stems from the characters’ unabashed, unapologetic approach to life without thinking it through. Their plans are as effective as Vasco Da Gama ki gun (of Andaz Apna Apna) and yet they exude the style and attitude of ramp models. The sheer obliviousness evokes laughter as you submit yourself to their world of ambition, fading vanity, and delusion.

Caught in a crossfire between needs, wants and morals, despite its frothy exterior, Crew has an interesting take on the upper middle class and their relationship with money, ethics and a dead-end job that enslaves them for life. ‘Adarshon se bill nahi bharte’, Geeta reminds herself.

Speaking of the ladies, Crew’s leading actresses are in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s respectively and casting hasn’t looked this fun for an Indian all-female heist film in a long time. Beyond the organic age inclusivity, the story doesn’t digress from the ladies even with men as entertaining as Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma around. Kulbhushan Kharbanda also features in a special appearance

and none of the male characters are inconsequential despite their brief screen time as seen in most chick flicks.

While all three bring their A game, Tabu and Kareena exude bonafide movie star energy to show how it’s done. Diljit was right when he said, ‘Hogi Rihanna, hogi Beyonce, sadi ta ae he hai, Kareena’. Bebo oozes oomph and substance as a hustler who conceals her loneliness. Torn between responsibilities and desires, Tabu is terrific. The two are electrifying on screen with characters distinctly written for each. The two even crack age-related jokes that we are sure resonates with them.

Kriti adds to the chutzpah and has great chemistry with Diljit but feels more like a third-wheeler. The latter makes a charming impression. He gives the film its best laugh out loud moment when he asks Kriti, “Tumne mujhe instagram pe follow back kyu nahi kiya?”

If you are looking for some light-hearted madcap comedy, Crew is worth diving into -with all its frivolity, humour and glam.

-- Times of India

By renuKa VyaVahare