NextGen Hindu Youth Leadership Convention Empowers Sanatani Youth

By VarsHa Vasu

Pearland: In a historic event that gathered approximately 400 attendees o ages 17 & above, the inaugural NextGen Hindu Youth Leadership Convention took place at Sri Meenakshi Temple (MTS). Enthusiastic participants, particularly youth, drove and flew in from cities across Texas and the US to take part. The convention, co-sponsored by Hindus of Greater Houston, Hindu Temple of the Woodlands, and Hindu University of America, aimed to forge a community of Sanatani youth, fostering connections through spirituality, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

The day began with the vibrant and welcoming drumming sounds of the Chenda , followed by prayers recited by MTS Vedic Heritage School students and soulstirring renditions of the American and Indian anthems. The morning emcees welcomed the attendees and invited MTS Chairman, Vinod Reddy Kaila to say a few opening words. Then was introduced the visionary behind NextGen, Dr. Dhamo S. Dhamotharan whose leadership provided the youth with a powerful voice.

The conference featured an inspiring lineup of speakers who drew connections between Hinduism and their respective professions, encouraging the attendees to embrace ancient wisdom and contemporary innovation.

Honorable D. C. Manjunath, Consul General of India in Houston, highlighted the tremendous accomplishments and trajectory in which India is economically progressing, largely with vision powered by young adults in the country. Suhag Shukla, Executive Director, and co-founder of Hindu American Foundation delivered a compelling talk titled “It’s in Your Back Pocket: A Timeless Roadmap to a Happy Life,” guiding youth on finding fulfillment within themselves. Joseph Emmett, the Director of Vedanta Institute Houston, enlightened attendees about the practical application of Vedanta philosophy in daily living.

After a coffee break followed a Spirituality Panel, moderated by Dr. Madhuri Vasudevan, a prominent NextGen leader in Satsang.

Panelists included Siddhant Patil, Mika Rao Kalapatapu, Dr. Lavannya Pandit, and Nikhil Balasubramanyam, all of whom attributed their Hindu faith and values to their successful journeys thus far. Then followed Professor Shobita Parthasarathy from the University of Michigan delivered an impassioned talk titled “Leading Towards Social Justice,” inspiring youth to take up the mantle of social change as their dharma.

The afternoon session began with Pooja Jesrani, NASA Flight Director who shared insightful remarks on Hindu and South Asian representation through her talk moderated by the lively Dr. Aiyasawmy Dorairajan. Next, Eddie Stern, renowned for his multi-disciplinary approach to yoga, engaged the audience with his particularly captivating talk, “Yoga and Life’s Big Question.”

Following Mr. Stern, Vasudha Narayanan, a Distinguished Professor, shed light on the cultural and spiritual importance of the sacred spaces of temples.

The session continued with Honorable Federal Judge Arun Subramanian, who drew attention to the power of a united generation in transforming society, citing several inspiring examples. An entrepreneurship panel discussion followed, moderated by Sanjay Ramabhadran, and featured Indira Vishnampet, Mythili Varanasi, Abhishek Balakrishnan, and Rishi Bhutada, who inspired the attendees to pursue their dreams fearlessly.

The convention proceeded with Partha Sarathi Chatterjee, a digital transformation and technology strategy executive, delivering a thought-provoking presentation on “AI and its impact on our lives.” This was followed by Arun Venkataraman, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, who emphasized the role of Hindu principles in guiding his dedication to public service. Then followed Jodi Bernstein, Vice President of Interfaith Relations, and Community Partnerships at IMGH, who inspired youth to channel their energy towards driving positive change. Lastly, Kalyan Viswanathan, President of Hindu University of America, shared the university’s empowering vision for the next generation of Hindu leaders.

The evening dinner sponsored by the Hindu University of America, culminated in an enthralling musical experience by “Ragaverse”, an Indo-Jazz band. They received roaring applause from the audience. This also offered a venue for networking and socializing.

The NextGen Hindu Youth Leadership Conference marked a momentous occasion and was made possible with the dozens of volunteers and leaders working diligently behind the scenes. Panelist and attendee Rohit Raina summarizes the experience: “I loved the ambience of the event [and the] many interesting topics…I look forward to attending the event next year!” With the flame of inspiration ignited, young Sanatani leaders are poised to shape a prosperous future. As the first of its kind conference, the NextGen Hindu Youth Leadership Conference has set the stage for an exciting journey ahead, fueling the aspirations of the next generation of Hindu leaders in Houston and beyond.

Varsha Vasu is an enthusiastic NextGen leader and young performing artist: dancer, singer, and violinist. She combines her passion for the arts with a passion for serving her community through her 501(c)(3) nonprofit, VAH (@Virtual Arts for Humanity on IG/FB).

KTRK-TV, the Disney-owned television station in Houston, is looking for an innovative, creative, hard-working, and fiercely competitive reporter

Responsibilities:

• Candidates must be master storytellers who can identify, develop, shoot, write, edit, produce and report high-quality, enterprising stories for multiple platforms.

• Our ideal candidate also knows how to tell high-impact stories utilizing data and other research tools and is willing to experiment with new technology

• Must have a desire to serve the community and a knack for quickly cultivating contacts and exclusive story ideas.

Basic Qualifications:

• Must be able to work under tight deadlines, multi-task, prioritize assignments, and have the flexibility to work any shift required.

• We want a respected, knowledgeable, ethical station representative and team player with a strong presence on social media.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a major television market

• Must have excellent writing and editorial experience

• Must have strong shooting, editing and on-air presentation skills, including live reporting & ad lib expertise.

• Must be able to pass a background check, which includes having a clean driving record

Required Education:

• High School Diploma

Preferred Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communication or related field Interested candidates apply via Disneycareers.com, Job ID 10057020

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, Disney Parks, and Experiences and Products. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating worldclass stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with KTRK Television, Inc, which is part of a business we call ABC Owned TV Stations.

KTRK Television, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Houston: On Aug 19th, at Houston Marriot Sugarland ,we are thrilled to commemorate the remarkable milestone of 50 years ICC gala, since the establishment of the India Culture Center at 6 pm. For half a century, our organization has been dedicated to promoting and preserving the rich heritage, traditions, and diversity of Indian culture.

We, the India Culture Center, proudly declare our jubilant celebration of India’s Independence Day on August 20th from 1 pm to 7 pm, marking the 77th anniversary of India’s liberation. This momentous occasion reminds us of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and the unyielding spirit of our great nation. In addition to, let’s step back in time as we transport you to the glorious era of the 1970s, when the ICC was born in 1973, with mesmerizing performances that will evoke feelings of nostalgia and pride. And also, experience the magic of classical dances, melodious music,

Through countless cultural events, performances, workshops, and educational programs, the India Culture Center has fostered unity, understanding, and appreciation for the vibrant tapestry of Indian traditions among our community members.

On this momentous occasion, we invite everyone to join us in our series of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances showcasing the essence of India’s glo- rious history, arts, music, dance, cuisine, and much more. Together, let us embrace the diversity and richness of our Indian heritage, as we continue to build bridges of friendship and understanding. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event where old meets new, and traditions are celebrated with fervor and joy.

Houston: Swami Mukundananda, a world-renowned teacher of Spirituality, Yoga & Meditation, will conduct two different programs from August 5 (Sat.) –August 18 (Fri.) in Houston.

Swami Mukundananda received his degrees in Engineering and Management from two world famous institutes in India- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and Indian Institute of Management (IIM) respectively. However, the call of God was so strong that after a short while on a successful corporate executive career path, he renounced his professional career to take Sanyas at age 23 in quest for God-realization and has subsequently dedicated his life for the last 40 years for the welfare of humanity. Details of the Event:

From August 5 - 11 (Sat to Fri)

- daily discourse at India House at 8888 W Belfort Ave, Houston, TX 77031 from 6:45pm - 9pm. Topic: Golden Rules for Living your Best Life

From Aug 12 – 18 (Sat to Fri)daily discourse at Durgabari Auditorium, 13944 Schiller Road, Houston, TX 77082 from 6:45 pm - 9 pm. Topic: Bhagavad Gita –The Song of God.

Admission to program is Free and Dinner Prasadam will be served after discourses. Free Registration at https://www.jkyog.org/Houston

Contact 281-630-5982, 281-7804877, 832-377-6070

Please Join and enhance your life’s journey.

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-