Friday, October 31, 2025 • Vol. 44, No. 44October 31, 2025
Indo American News READ US ONLINE at www.indoamerican-news.com | Published weekly from Houston, Texas. USA
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BAPS Diwali 2025: Weaving Ancient Roots into Diwali Today
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Sri Meenakshi Temple Hosts a Grand Diwali Bazaar & Kaatchi
P6 Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
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Friday, October 31, 2025 | Vol. 44, No. 44
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Indo American News
Published weekly from Houston, TX
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2470 Dairy Ashford, Houston, TX 77077 • 713.789.NEWS (6397) • indoamericannews@yahoo.com
Pritam and Team of Young Singers Delight Houston Audience Pritam in a patriotic spirit at his live concert at the Southwest Arena Center in Houston. The concert promoter was Harry Shah.
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P6 GSH Board, Executive Committee
IACF Honors Donor Bal Sareen
IMAGH Donates $10K for Kerrville
Gujarati Samaj of Houston conducted Election for the term Indo-American Charity Foundation adds Bal Sareen as honorary advisor. -- PAGE 9 of 2026-27 at GSH event center. -- PAGE 7.
Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH) contributes $10,000 for Kerrville flood relief. -- PAGE 11.
W E D D I N G S , S P E C I A L E V E N T S , T E N T E D E V E N T S , O U T D O O R C O U R T YA R D
3 3 3 0 F M 1 4 6 3 | Ka t y, T X 7 7 4 9 4 | 8 3 2 . 8 5 5 . 5 5 2 0 | p a l m r o y a l v i l l a . c o m Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
4 October 31, 2025 COMMUNITY BAPS Diwali 2025: Weaving Ancient Roots into Diwali Today Houston: In the heart of Houston, TX — far from Diwali’s origin in Ayodhya — the festival’s light still feels familiar and close. At the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Houston, TX, Diwali isn’t a date on a calendar; it’s a living thread that ties grandparents to children, newcomers to neighbors, and ancient stories to everyday life today. This year, that thread was woven with devotion, service, and unity—quiet, steady virtues that remind us the spirit of Diwali travels wherever people carry it with care, creating a sense of unity and togetherness that transcends physical distance. For generations, Diwali has called families and communities to gather, to reflect, and to renew. Its timeless message—light over darkness, understanding over ignorance—has found a natural home in BAPS mandirs across North America. Here, those values are not only remembered; they are practiced and passed on, so the next generation can feel Diwali not just as a memory from the past, but as a promise for the future. This year’s guiding theme— Unity (Samp)—began at home and radiated outward. Visitors stepped into color and warmth: rangoli (colorful powder decorations) blooming like prayers along the floor, rows of diyas (oil lamps) knitting together a gentle glow, and immersive exhibits echoing the rhythms of village life and the pulse of modern cities alike. Unity wasn’t presented as an idea, but
Annakut at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Familes gather together to decorate diya.
as a feeling: the kind that grows when people greet one another, listen a little longer, and serve side by side. “I thoroughly enjoyed the unique exhibition organized and run by teams of young boys
and girls highlighting our age-old beliefs, traditions, traits, and spirituality,” commented Colonel Raj Bhalla of Houston, TX. At the heart of the celebration was the Annakut or “mountain of
food”—a devotional tapestry of flavors. This tradition, which dates back to the time of Bhagwan Shri Krishna, is an offering to God— gratitude made visible: hundreds of handmade, vegetarian offerings
Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
arranged with artistry and love, a thank-you for the year gone by and a hopeful prayer for the one to come. In Houston, as in cities and mandirs across India, this act of giving joins history with the present and transforms cooking into community. As night fell, the festival came alive with fireworks lighting up the dark skies in a stunning display of color and brilliance, captivating children and adults alike. Children enjoyed carnival games and rides, their laughter blending with the crackle of fireworks, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and excitement. Beyond the formal rituals, the celebrations were surprisingly personal and relatable. Children pointed out their favorite sweets; elders shared stories that stitched eras together; friends paused at exhibits to reflect on forgiveness (mafi), help (madad), and gathering (milan) the simple habits that hold families and neighborhoods steady. In these small exchanges, Diwali became less about where we are from and more about how we choose to live together now, making everyone feel included and understood. As the diyas shimmered against the mandir’s walls, they offered a gentle reminder: place may change, but purpose doesn’t. The light of tradition endures when we carry it in our hands—and even more, in our hearts, providing a sense of reassurance and connection to our cultural roots.
5 Sri Meenakshi Temple Hosts a Grand Diwali Bazar & Kaatchi
COMMUNITY
October 31, 2025
By Ponni Sivaraman Pearland: Year after Year, Sri Meenakshi Temple’s Signature event, the Diwali Bazar and Mela, seems to get only bigger and better. This annual pre-Diwali Bazar celebration, unique only to Sri Meenakshi Temple, was held on October 4, 2025, and it brought in about 2000 devotees from all around Houston. It was a very festive day, starting with the Annual Health Fair Inauguration at 9:30 AM followed by Vendor Booth inauguration at 10:30 AM. The Health Fair was inaugurated by Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole and other dignitaries. Health fair registration began at 9 AM, and the inflow of people to get free testing done was steady until 12 noon. Giving back to the community is what Sri Meenakshi Temple takes pride in and hence offered free testing of Blood Pressure, EKG, Complete Blood work, Thyroid Test, Dental Check, Eye Exams, Prostate Exams, Women’s Wellness Check, and General Medical advice, which was availed by over 150 devotees. This is the 30th consecutive year that this Health Fair is being conducted and the providers were Physicians and Health Professionals from major medical hospitals in Houston, and they offered their noble services with a Grand fireworks at MTS Diwali Bazaar and Mela smile. The Vendor Booth was inaugurated at 10:30 AM by UH Dean Dan O’Connor, Councilmember Layni Cade, and Nancy Stickler, along with the temple’s Board Executives. The auspicious sounds of live Nadaswaram and Tavil in the background added to the ambiance and gave the event a good start. Other dignitaries present included Captain Donald Patterson, Vice Consul Mr. Sona, and Consulate Staff. An addition to the MTS Vendor booth this year was the “MTS Legacy Endowment Fund - Securing the Future of MTS” booth, a committee run by prudent stewards, committed in raising funds, to strengthen the endowment and secure a strong future for the Temple. Special poojas to Goddess Mahalakshmi was conducted throughout the day, in the main temple. Sales of Goddess adorned saris, every lady’s favorite, one that is looked forward to, every year, was held and sales soared and closed within the hour. The alankarams to the deities was amazing and spell bounding. Sweets made by the Temple’s Paricharakar was distributed to devotees all day long. The Cultural Program conducted in the Raja Veethi, consisted of classical vocal and instrumental music and Bharatanatyam by some very talented local artists, which were enjoyed by many devotees who expressed their joy by way of loud applauses. The Kids Carnival, in the evening was well organized and managed by the team. The train ride and cotton candy seemed to be the highlights. The highlight of the event was the thrilling 15-minute nonstop Fireworks show that lighted up night sky and spilled many sparks in all colors including Green, white and Saffron. About 1500 people had assembled just for the fireworks display and stayed on to be entertained by a special musical concert by Makka Band, that followed the firework display, Like every year, raffle tickets were very popular with the crowd. Top prizes included gold earrings, silver lamps, silver coins sponsored by local Jewelers, and sarees from a local store. Five Food Booths (outside restaurant vendors) and MTS Cafeteria were open from 10 AM. The aroma from Medhu Vada and Masala Dosa wafted heavily through the grounds and attracted huge crowds until 10:00 PM. Devotees seemed to be extremely happy and excited and grateful for the Temple to hold such an event to bring together the community and to foster the sense of belonging and oneness. Families and friends greeted each other fondly with “Happy Diwali” slogans and exchanged Diwali sweets with one another. The Chairman of the Temple Board, Mr. Arun Sundar, in his speech said that he was overwhelmed at the public response to the event. He expressed his joy and happiness and thanked this year’s Coordinator, Mr. Sethuraman (current Joint Treasurer), the Board members and entire team, the Admisistrators, the Priests, the Silpis, the Physicians, the medical staff, and all those involved in making Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
this day a huge success. This big of an event is not possible without all the wonderful volunteers, he remarked and conveyed his gratitude to all. He closed his remark by saying he was looking forward to “Deepavali Kaatchi” on October 20, the actual day of Diwali, when the Trustees, Board members and all devotees will have an opportunity to offer new Vastras to the Gods and Goddesses. Diwali Bazar day at Sri Meenakshi Temple was a huge success and devotees are already looking forward to next year celebrations. “Deepavali Kaatchi” on October 20, 2025, was a grand celebration. On the actual day of Deepavali, Trustees and Devotees gathered together to offer new Vastras to the Deities, and immersed themselves in the divine blessings from Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi, remembered the good fortunes received in the past year, and prayed for guidance, wisdom , knowledge and enlightenment in the coming year.
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COMMUNITY RELIGION
Diwali 2025 at Chinmaya Mission – A Celebration of Light and Seva By Rimi Bhawal Sugar Land: As the year draws to a close, Chinmaya Mission Houston ushered in Diwali 2025 as a profound reminder of renewal – a time to pause, reflect, and ignite the inner light. Embracing the global tradition of the Festival of Lights, the Mission brought families together in a celebration that transcended rituals and radiance, embodying unity, gratitude, and selfless service. This year, Chinmaya Mission Houston not only illuminated Diwali with devotion but also marked the Chinmaya Amruth Mahotsav, celebrating 75 years of the Mission’s global legacy of spiritual growth and service. The Mahotsav’s spirit of spreading wisdom and compassion deepened the festive joy, inspiring the community to strengthen their commitment to the Mission’s vision. Diwali 2025 was not just a festival of illumination but also a celebration of seva — the spirit of service that transforms devotion into action. Diwali represents more than festive lights; it signifies the awakening of the inner self, the triumph of truth over falsehood, and wisdom over ignorance. Its enduring stories teach that darkness is dispelled not only by glowing lamps but by the radiance of love, faith, and knowledge. These values shaped Chinmaya Mission Houston’s Diwali celebration this year, where devotion intertwined seamlessly with community service, and joy
Photos by Bharath Rao and Ashutosh Kak
sparkled through acts of dedication and togetherness. This year’s Diwali at Chinmaya Mission Houston beautifully blended bhakti (devotion) and seva (service). In the days leading up to the event, volunteers from every corner of the Mission—kitchen, parking, decorations, sound, photography, editorial, and beyond— worked in unison, infusing each
task with love and devotion. Their tireless efforts embodied the essence of seva, where every action, no matter how small, becomes a sacred offering to the Divine. On Diwali day, Smriti Hall buzzed with vibrant energy as families gathered in devotion. The celebration began with a sacred puja conducted by temple priest Ganeshji, invoking the blessings of
Lord Ganapati, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Vishnu. The atmosphere filled with melodious chanting of the Lakshmi Ashtotram and Vishnu Sahasranamam, invoking divine blessings of prosperity, wisdom, and protection. The rhythmic chants united every heart in a shared sense of gratitude and serenity. Pujya Acharya Gaurang Uncle offered heartfelt insights,
Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
encouraging the community to extend Diwali’s spirit beyond the temple walls. He emphasized that true illumination comes when wisdom guides our thoughts and compassion shapes our actions, echoing the Chinmaya Mission pledge to live a life of sacrifice and service. His words inspired all to transform festive joy into a yearlong commitment to seva. This Diwali, Chinmaya Mission Houston reminded all that true light does not merely shine— it serves. Through the collective spirit of seva, devotion, and love, the community once again transformed celebration into spiritual upliftment, carrying forward the divine flame of wisdom into the year ahead. The celebration culminated in the sacred act of Gurudakshina, a meaningful offering to honor the Guru whose wisdom lights the path of knowledge and devotion. More than a ritual, Gurudakshina reflects reverence, selflessness, and support for the Mission’s spiritual endeavors. As families participated in quiet reflection, a collective resolve emerged—to live with greater awareness, purpose, and devotion, carrying the Guru’s blessings into the coming year. For more information about Chinmaya Mission Houston, Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya, and its activities please visit www.chinmayahouston.org, www.saumyakasi. org or call temple 281 568 1690 or Jay Deshmukh 832 541 0059 or Bharati Sutaria 281-933-0233
COMMUNITY
October 31, 2025
New ‘26-’27 GSH Executive, Board Houston: Gujarati Samaj of Houston conducted Election for the term of 2026-27 at GSH event center on 27th September 2025 Saturday from 7 PM onwards. There was lots of enthusiasm among members to elect right candidates. Substantial number of members made special effort in making sure their voice is included in selection of new Executive Committee and Board of Trustees selection process. Some of the members made special effort and came to vote even though they were not going to attend Garba at GSH event that day. Election was conducted professionally and peacefully. Large number of members waited till 1 AM Sunday morning to see the results and announcement of New President and VP.
Executive Committee with Bharat Shah (left), Arvind Patel, Paresh Desai, Chintan Parikh, Ankita Parikh, Neha Thakkar Bhatt, Bharat Parikh( President) Rupen Patel( Vice President) Shailendra Singh Vaghela, Shivam Patel, Tanmay Patel and Prakash Desai. Not in picture Krishnakant Patel and Mukesh Patel.
Board of Trustees with Gopalbhai Salani (left), Rakesh Shah ( Chief Trustee) Bharat Parikh(Trustee now President Elect) Jignesh Patel ( Trustee now Chief Trustee) Rupen Patel( Vice President) Deveshbhai Parikh and Girish Naik( President will be Liaison officer next year) Not in picture Bharat Patel, Bhaskar Patel and Geetaben Patel.
Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
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ENTERTAINMENT
Pritam and Team of Young Singers Delight Houston Audience
Composer and singer Pritam (center) and his team of new-generation singers thrilled the Houston audience at the Southwest Arena Center.
Pritam (third from left) with concert partners at Meet & Greet.
Masala team with Pritam and his singers at Meet & Greet
Indo American News Founder: Dr. K.L. Sindwani Publisher: Jawahar Malhotra Editor: Pramod Kulkarni Correspondent: Sanchali Basu
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COMMUNITY
October 31, 2025
IACF Executive Committee, Board Meet with New Advisor Bal Sareen Houston: Mr. Bal Sareen, a visionary leader and dedicated philanthropist, has spent countless years supporting IACF’s mission. His deep generosity and unwavering commitment to “help others, unconditionally” truly reflect his humility and lifelong dedication to community service. During the meeting, the IACF team shared the Foundation’s vision of “Global Hearts and Local Hands,” which aims to empower communities through education, healthcare, disaster relief, and grants to emerging charities. The discussion highlighted IACF’s impactful programs, including student scholarships, Texas Hill Country flood relief and rebuilding efforts, family support programs, and healthcare assistance for those in need. The team also shared updates on the upcoming Annual Gala on November 16, where “Global Hearts and Local Hands”
will unite once again to uplift lives and strengthen our community. Mr. Sareen, who has been a steadfast supporter of IACF over the years, commended the Foundation’s long-standing service to the Houston community and offered valuable insights on enhancing collaboration and sustainability in charitable initiatives. In recognition of his leadership, generosity, and continued commitment to community welfare, the IACF President, Mr Pankaj Rana and the IACF Board invited Mr. Sareen to serve as an Honorary Advisor — an invitation he graciously accepted. IACF is deeply honored to have the guidance and support of such a respected leader in the Indo-American community. Together with Mr. Sareen and other philanthropic partners, IACF remains dedicated to expanding its reach and making a lasting difference while staying true to its guiding principle: “We Live Here, We Give Here.”
IACF team with Bal Sareen (center)
Presentation to Bal Sareen (center) by IACF President Pankaj Rana (left) and board member Mahesh Wadhwa.
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COMMUNITY
Diwali Mela in McKinney Lights Up with Culture and Celebration
From L to R: Frisco City Council Member Burt Thakur, Sewa International - Dallas Chapter President Gitesh Desai, Collin County Judge Chris Hill, and Texas Senator Brent Hagenbuch.
McKinney: The Diwali Mela – Festival of Lights, organized by Mystic Mandala in McKinney, a suburb of Dallas, TX, on October 18th, was a vibrant and joyful celebration of Indian culture, tradition, and community. The event attracted over 10,000 attendees, turning the venue into a dazzling display of lights, music, and festivity. The celebration was graced by the presence of Collin County Judge Chriss Hill and Frisco City Council Member Burt Thakur. With more than 100 vendor stalls, visitors explored a wide range of offerings including ethnic clothing, jewelry, Indian furniture, home décor, statues, and authentic Indian cuisine. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as live performances took place on two stages, showcasing a blend of classical Bharat Natyam, Bollywood dance numbers, and a much-loved Ram Leela dramatization. Performers from all age groups — from children under 5 to seniors over 70 — brought the stages to life, while families enjoyed carnival rides, games, and engaging dance school showcases under the crisp, pleasant autumn skies. A highlight of the evening was the honoring of prominent Indian American community leader Gitesh Desai for his exceptional community service. The award was presented by Vijay Warman, founder of the Dallas Festival of Lights, adding a heartfelt moment of recognition to the festivities. The event was proudly sponsored by Sewa International (Dallas Chapter), Hindus of DFW, and several other community organizations and local businesses, whose support helped make the celebration a grand success. This year’s Diwali Mela was more than an event — it was a glowing testament to cultural pride, community unity, and the enduring spirit of Diwali in North Texas.
Indo-American News • Friday, october 31, 2025 • www.indoamerican-news
COMMUNITY/ ENTERTAINMENT
October 31, 2025
IMAGH Donates $10K for Kerrville via IACF
Houston: The Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston (IMAGH), in a show of solidarity and community support, contributed a donation of $10,000 to Indo American Charity Foundation’s (IACF) campaign, providing critical assistance to those affected by the recent flooding. This fundraising initiative was to support flood relief efforts in Kerrville, Texas. IMAGH’s collaboration underscores the commitment of both organizations to humanitarian efforts and the spirit of unity within the Greater Houston. IMAGH has a mission of “Fostering Amity Across Cultures, Communities, and Religions”.
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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 October 21, 2025. Email us at indoamericannews@yahoo.com. Please send us your solved Sudoku for your name to be published.
Solution Next Week
‘Sunny Sanskari ki Tulsi Kumari’: Entertaining By Dhaval Roy Story: After being dumped by their respective lovers, two strangers, Sunny Sanskari (Varun Dhawan) and Tulsi Kumari (Janhvi Kapoor), team up and set out on a mission to win them back. Their big plan? Crash and break up Ananya (Sanya Malhotra) and Vikram’s (Rohit Saraf) wedding. What follows is a rollercoaster of comedy and emotions. But will they succeed? Review: Writer-director Shashank Khaitan’s rom-com opens with Sunny gearing up to propose to Ananya after her return from a trip to Italy. However, his world comes crashing down (along with the towering statues of Baahubali and Devasena as he recreates the iconic movie’s setting to propose) when Ananya tells him that they were never really in a relationship but only in a “situationship.” Heartbroken but determined to win her back, Sunny finds unlikely company in Tulsi, Vikram’s ex-girlfriend, when his best friend Bantu (Abhinav Sharma) introduces them. Together, the trio heads to Udaipur with one mission in mind — to stop Ananya and Vikram’s wedding.The film leans on famil-
Last Week’s Solution
iar tropes, such as the middle-class boy and girl transforming into chic, stylish avatars, and the classic attempt to make their former lovers jealous to win back lost love.
Depicting a wealthy couple’s wedding naturally brings together all the elements expected of a film in this genre — a lavish palace venue, glamour, music. -- ToI
Recent Winners
Kumud Athavale, Sanchali Basu, Krishna R. Vuddagiri, Prabha Barvalia, Jawahar Khandheria, Mohit Mittal, Ramesh Ratneshvar, Prabha Narumanchi, Anil Bhagtaney, Arup Gupta, Yudhveer Bagga, Pooja Bhavsar, Hanumant Todgal, Naveen Garg, Bhumija Mittal, Anil Chaugule, Murthy Mudigonda, Romy Mukhi
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