\ Samvad shri vishwa niketan
Kartik Krishna 10, Vik. Samvat 2082, Yugabda 5127 : 16 October, 2025: SM 7014 (For Private Circulation only)
1. FESTIVALS :
GURU NANAK JAYANTI -Also known as Gurupurab or Prakash Utsav, Guru Nanak
Jayanti, celebrated on Kartik Purnima (November 5 this year), marks the 556th
birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru and founder of
Sikhism. His teachings of compassion, selfless service, and equality continue to
shape lives centuries later.
2. PROGRAMS OF SARSANGHCHALAK DR MOHAN BHAGWAT: RSS
Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat attended the 101st Foundation Day of
Kaivalyadhama Yoga Research Institute in Lonavala. Mahamandaleshwar Swami
Vishveshwaranand Giri, former Union Minister and President of Centenary Year
Committee Suresh Prabhu, and CEO Subodh Tiwari, among others were present on the
occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Bhagwat said that Bharat possesses the
path to eternal life in harmony with nature and must share this wisdom for the
well-being of humanity. 
3. NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ‘ROLE OF MEDIA IN NATION
BUILDING’: Dev Sanskriti University, Haridwar, organised a one-day National
Conference on ‘Role of Media in Nation Building’ on October 17. The conference
was inaugurated by Dattatreya Hosabale, Sarkaryavah of Rashtriya Swayamsevak
Sangh (RSS), along with Vice-Chancellor Sharad Pardhi, Pro-ViceChancellor Dr.
Chinmay Pandya, and former MP Tarun Vijay. The day-long conference featured five
sessions, during which speakers called upon the media to play an active role in
shaping an ethically and morally strong Bharat.
4. MAHASAMADHI CENTENARY OF SREE NARAYANA GURU INAUGURATED:
Rashtrapati Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the observance of the Mahasamadhi
centenary of Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala, Kerala on October 23.
Speaking on the occasion, the Rashtrapati said that Sree Narayana Guru was one
of Bharat’s great spiritual leaders and social reformers.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar also attended the programme and Sree
Narayana Dharma Samgham president Swami Sachidananda delivered the keynote
address.
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5. PRAGNA BHARATI MARKS 33RD FOUNDATION DAY: Pragna
Bharati celebrated its 33rd Foundation Day with grandeur at the Marriott
Convention Centre, Bhagyanagar, on October 18. The event themed ‘Information
Warfare and National Security – Challenges for Viksit Bharat’ witnessed the
participation of eminent personalities, intellectuals and public leaders. The
organisers presented a brief reflection on 33 years of Pragna Bharati’s journey,
highlighting its contributions to intellectual discourse and nationalist
thought. The Pragna Puraskar Awards were presented to Raka Sudhakar Rao, senior
journalist and author, and Mudigonda Sivaprasad, noted novelist and historian,
for their contributions to literature and national thought. The evening also saw
the release of a special publication marking 100 years of the RSS, published by
Jagriti Weekly in Telugu, alongside the launch of Swayambodh & Shatrubodh
(English) by Pankaj Saxena and Kallola Bharatham (Telugu) by Kovela Santhosh
Kumar.
6. PRAGJYOTISHPUR UNIVERSITY CELEBRATED FOUNDATION DAY:
Pragjyotishpur University, the first crowd funded higher education center,
celebrated its 4th Foundation Day on October 17 with grandeur at its campus in
Hajongbari, Chandrapur near Guwahati. Eminent educationists, vice chancellors
from various universities and heads of higher education institutions from across
the country participated in the event.
In his keynote address, Suresh Soni, Member of the National Executive of RSS,
said that nation building is possible only through character-building and
Pragjyotishpur University is moving forward with this noble objective by
reflecting timeless values in modern education.
Pragjyotishpur University was established in 2022, with the vision of imparting
higher education inspired by Bharatiya knowledge systems and patriotism, fully
aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). It is an institution
built and nurtured through the cooperation of society, representing the
harmonious blend of Bharatiya culture, modern knowledge and global vision.
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7. DIWALI CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD: Diwali is
celebrated in many countries beyond Bharat, with some nations like Fiji, Guyana,
Malaysia, Mauritius, and Singapore recognizing it as a public holiday. Other
countries with significant Diwali celebrations include the United Kingdom, the
United States, Canada, and Australia, where local communities host events, while
Nepal observes the festival as Tihar.
The British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata shared visuals of their
celebration in their premises.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, New Zealand Prime Minister
Christopher Luxon and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and other world
leaders also conveyed their Diwali greetings.
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8. AYODHYA SETS RECORD WITH 2.6 MILLION LAMPS: Ayodhya
once again dazzled the world with a record-breaking Deepotsav celebration,
illuminating the banks of the Saryu River with more than 2.6 million oil lamps
on October 19 - the largest display of diyas ever recorded.
Uttar Pradesh Mukhya Mantri led the ceremonies, performing the aarti of artists
portraying Bhagwan Ram, Mata Sita and Lakshman, and symbolically pulling the
Pushpak Vimaan chariot carrying them.
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9. KARTAVYA PATH WITNESSES GRAND CELEBRATION OF DEEPOTSAV:
For the first time, Kartavya Path witnessed the grand celebration of
Deepotsav. Beginning at 6 pm, the event was inaugurated by Chief Minister Rekha
Gupta and featured a blend of cultural performances, Ram Katha storytelling, a
spectacular drone show, and the lighting of 1.51 lakh earthen lamps, turning the
avenue into a breathtaking display of light and spiritual vibrancy.
10. HSS VIJAYADASHAMI CELEBRATIONS: Hindu Swayamsevak
Sangh (HSS) Canada celebrated Vijayadashami Utsavs in shakhas across
Canada with Ghosh pradarshan, bauddhiks, suryanamaskar, and collective display
of physical activities, thus reinforcing the timeless message of discipline,
service, and dharmic values.
11. SEWADIWALI USA FOOD DRIVES: The SewaDiwali –
Monroe event was organized by Monroe Indians for Civic Action and Hindu
Swayamsevak Sangh USA. More than 44,500 pounds of food and $750 in checks and
cash were donated to various food pantries.
Science of Spirituality Minnesota chapter held its Diwali utsav featuring
a satsang, meditation, and the donation of around 300 pounds of food collected
during the SewaDiwali drive.
On October 26, Sewa International USA, Houston, HSS volunteers, and Girl
Scouts from Woodcreek Middle School came together to donate more than 1100
pounds of food to Family Hope of Fulshear.
Portland Jaya Hanuman mandir donated around 1200 pounds of food items to
SewaDiwali food collection drive.
Door to Door campaign for SewaDiwali was held at River Island community,
Lathrop, California.
The Sikh Center in San Antonio, Texas collected food on the occasion of
Bandi Chhor Diwas in support of SewaDiwali.
Kishores from Ekalavya Shakha, Naperville, campaigned in front of IndiaCO
for SewaDiwali, and handed over to them around 300 pounds of non perishable
food.
Food drives were also conducted in several other locations across the USA.
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12. SACRED BUDDHA RELICS DRAW DEVOTEES IN KALMYKIA:
Over 50,000 devotees, many of whom waited in queues stretching up to one
kilometer, paid homage to Bharat’s Sacred Relics of Bhagwan Buddha at the iconic
Geden Sheddup Choikorling Monastery. The exposition from Bharat began on October
11 at the monastery also known as the ‘Golden Abode of Shakyamuni Buddha’, and
has drawn an unprecedented response in the Republic of Kalmykia, Russia.
This historic exposition, the first of its kind in the Russian Republic, is a
testament to the deep civilizational bonds between Bharat and Russia, said the
official.
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13. CULTURE MINISTER INAUGURATES RESTORED PLAOSAN MANDIR IN
CENTRAL JAVA: The Minister of Culture Fadli Zon officially inaugurated
Series II No. 19, one of the accompanying mandirs at the Plaosan Mandir Site in
Central Java. He described Plaosan Mandir as a prime example of a complete
cultural landscape.
The inauguration followed the completion of restoration work by the Cultural
Preservation Center (BPK) X on October 23.
Minister Fadli Zon stated that the restoration of the mandir is part of broader
efforts to preserve Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
Plaosan Mandir is a mandir complex located in Prambanan Subdistrict, Klaten
Regency, Central Java. It was built in the 9th century AD by King Rakai Pikatan
and stands as a symbol of harmony between Hinduism and Buddhism during the
Ancient Mataram Kingdom.
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14. TRINIDAD & TOBAGO TO BUILD GRAND RAM MANDIR:
Trinidad and Tobago is set to build a grand Ram Mandir in its capital, Port of
Spain. The initiative aims to promote Hinduism and Bharatiya culture,
reinforcing the Caribbean nation’s long-standing identity as the Ramayana
Country. Alongside the Mandir, plans are underway to create a “mini Ayodhya”, a
spiritual hub that would allow devotees from North America and the Caribbean to
experience the essence of Ayodhya without travelling to Bharat.
15. CONSTRUCTION OF HISTORIC RAM MANDIR PRECINCT COMPLETED:
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has announced the completion
of all major construction work on the magnificent Ram Mandir, the heart of
Ayodhya and the symbol of Bharat’s civilisational resurgence. According to the
Trust, the entire Mandir complex including the main sanctum of Prabhu Shri
Ramlalla and six subsidiary Mandirs within the sacred precincts has been
completed. Flags and kalashas (auspicious pinnacles) have been installed atop
each Mandir, marking the completion of the consecration architecture in full
traditional splendour.
“All works related to the convenience, safety, and spiritual experience of
devotees have been fully completed,” a Trust representative confirmed.
Infrastructure designed for pilgrims including pathways, queue management areas,
lighting, sanitation, and accessibility measures are all operational. The
announcement marks a historic milestone in the cultural and spiritual rebirth of
Ayodhya, transforming it into a model of faith, heritage, and modern
development.
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16. BHARAT AND MONGOLIA ARE BOUND BY SPIRITUAL TIES : PM
MODI: Coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the
10th anniversary of the Bharat-Mongolia Strategic Partnership, Pradhan Mantri
Narendra Modi welcomed Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh who was on a
state visit to Bharat. To mark this occasion, a joint postal stamp symbolising
shared heritage, diversity, and deep civilisational ties was issued.
PM Modi said that Bharat and Mongolia were bound not just by diplomacy but by
“personal and spiritual ties,” as he announced a series of initiatives to
strengthen bilateral relations.
President Khurelsukh’s visit marks a renewed momentum in Bharat-Mongolia ties,
combining strategic cooperation with deep spiritual and cultural resonance.
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17. BHARAT ELECTED UNOPPOSED TO UN HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL:
Bharat has been elected unopposed to the Human Rights Council (HRC) for the
seventh time to a three-year term starting next year, with a pledge to be a
bridge-builder.
18. SEWA INTERNATIONAL BHARAT ACTIVITIES: In a step
toward girls’ education and empowerment, Sewa, in collaboration with Sewa Bharti
Jammu & Kashmir, distributed 40 bicycles to school-going girls from the Marh
block at Jhiri village. Under the Livelihood Program supported by Oracle, Sewa
distributed advanced sheep shearing machines to local farmers in Jaisalmer. Sewa
Skill Centre, Varanasi, hosted a Rojgar Mela under the CSR initiative supported
by IDBI Bank and NSDC. The event celebrated 240 trained students — with 50
receiving confirmed job offers and 73 shortlisted for second-round interviews.
Sewa’s SBI Sanjeevani Mobile Medical Unit in Manipur conducted an informative
awareness session on personal & oral hygiene including skin care at Koinonia
Training School, Chandel, attended by 400 students and 11 teachers.
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19. FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Monism and dualism are
essentially the same… As dualists hold the Father and Son to be two, monists
hold them to be really one. Dualism is in nature, in manifestation, and monism
is pure spirituality in essence. – Swami Vivekananda
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JAI SHRI RAM
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GROWING SIGNIFICANCE AND
CELEBRATION OF HINDU HERITAGE MONTH:
EMBRACING THE SPIRIT OF SEVA
ACROSS AMERICA
Through proclamations, VHPA-led
events, and programs such as Sewa Diwali, the Hindu community continues to
enrich the U.S. with its philosophy of unity and aid. writes Madhu Hebbar.
October marks a vibrant time for
the Hindu American community across the United States, as it is widely
recognized as Hindu Heritage Month. This annual observance celebrates the rich
cultural, spiritual, and historical contributions of Hindu Americans,
highlighting their traditions, achievements, and integral role in the nation’s
diverse fabric. What began as grassroots efforts has grown into official
proclamations in numerous states and cities, fostering greater awareness and
appreciation for Hinduism’s profound influence.
The push for Hindu Heritage Month can be traced back to advocacy by
organizations such as the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) and the Vishwa Hindu
Parishad of America (VHPA), which have championed similar recognitions for
years. Virginia led the way as the first state to officially acknowledge October
as Hindu Heritage Month, thanks to community leaders like Delegate Suhas
Subramanyam.
VHPA’s Central Role
The VHPA plays a central role in these festivities, kicking off the month-long
celebrations with an inaugural function in Kearny, NJ, inviting participants to
share their plans and engage in events that showcase Hindu culture and
traditions. Events nationwide include cultural festivals, workshops, and
community gatherings. For instance, in New Jersey, the fifth anniversary of
Hindu Heritage Month kicked off with the VHPA-led celebration on October 4,
2025. In Houston, the Children’s Museum hosted a family-friendly event with
mindful workshops and creative activities, blending culture and community
spirit.
These observances often coincide with Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights on
October 20, 2025, which commemorates Lord Rama’s triumphant return to Ayodhya
after defeating the demon king Ravana and rescuing his wife Sita, symbolizing
the victory of good over evil and amplifying themes of renewal and goodwill.
At the heart of Hindu Heritage Month lies a deep-rooted philosophy that
emphasizes compassion and service to others. Hinduism teaches that helping the
needy is not just an act of kindness but a fundamental duty, encapsulated in
concepts like dāna (charity) and seva (selfless service). Dāna refers to
generous giving without expectation of return, often in the form of food,
clothing, money, or knowledge to those in need. The Rig Veda, one of Hinduism’s
oldest scriptures, extols dāna as essential aid to the poor, including
provisions like food or protection. Anna dāna, or food donation, holds special
significance, as it sustains life and alleviates hunger, considered one of the
highest forms of charity.
The push for Hindu Heritage Month can be traced back to advocacy by
organizations such as the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) and the Vishwa Hindu
Parishad of America (VHPA), which have championed similar recognitions for
years.
Seva, meanwhile, embodies selfless action performed for the greater good, rooted
in the belief that serving humanity is akin to serving the divine. Hindu texts
stress that God resides in every being, making aid to the needy a spiritual
practice that purifies the giver’s soul. This philosophy extends beyond caste or
community; scriptures urge helping all poor individuals, not just specific
groups. During festivals like Diwali and Navaratri, Hindus traditionally offer
food and support to the underprivileged, reinforcing these values. In essence,
dāna and seva promote a life of empathy, where material success is measured by
contributions to society’s welfare.
Since its inception, Sewa Diwali has made a significant impact. In 2023,
participants donated over 502,000 pounds of food to more than 200 beneficiary
organizations nationwide. The previous year saw even higher contributions, with
630,000 pounds collected, demonstrating the program’s growing scale. Dharmic
communities in cities such as Dallas, TX, and Philadelphia, PA, and many cities
across the USA host collection events that engage families and youth, fostering
a sense of community while addressing hunger.
Rooted in the spirit of seva, the initiative embodies Hinduism’s call to
selfless giving, spreading light not just through lamps but through tangible
support for those in need. As one participant noted, it “makes a difference in
the lives of those suffering from food insecurity,” aligning perfectly with
Diwali’s themes of prosperity and compassion.
Selfless Giving
Hindu Heritage Month serves as a powerful reminder of these enduring values,
encouraging all Americans to embrace diversity and service. Through
proclamations, VHPA-led events, and programs such as Sewa Diwali, the Hindu
community continues to enrich the U.S. with its philosophy of unity and aid. As
the month unfolds, it invites reflection on how small acts of kindness can
illuminate society, proving that heritage is not just preserved but actively
lived.
In the face of rising Hinduphobic attacks on places of worship and individuals
in the USA, these celebrations and programs take on added importance. Since
December 2024, at least eight Hindu temples have been vandalized, with incidents
escalating to eleven targeted attacks in 2025, including gunfire at an ISKCON
temple in Utah and vandalism in California and New York. Hindu students have
faced bullying and doxxing on campuses, while individuals endure hate crimes
fueled by prejudice. Congressman Suhas Subramanyam has condemned these acts,
stating, “hate has no place.” Amid this, Hindu Heritage Month and initiatives
like Sewa Diwali promote positive narratives, educate the public on Hindu
contributions, foster interfaith dialogue, and build community resilience to
counter Hinduphobia and ensure safety.
SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN samvadnewsletter@gmail.com http://shrivishwaniketan.
