Samvad
संवाद
Festival
01 dispatch
Diwali: the festival of lights
Five days of Dhanteras, Narak Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj mark the victory of Dharma over adharma
Diwali, also known as Dipavali, the festival of lights, is celebrated every year on Kartik Amavasya, this year on 8 November. It is associated with the victory of Dharma over adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is celebrated over five days: Dhanteras on the first day, Narak Chaturdashi on the second, Sri Lakshmi Puja on the third, Govardhan Puja on the fourth and Bhai Dooj on the last day. People clean their houses and workplaces and decorate them, light lamps, distribute gifts and sweets, and burst firecrackers.
Many historical incidents and traditions are remembered on this day. People celebrate Bhagwan Ram's return to Ayodhya after he defeated Ravana, by lighting rows of clay lamps; southern Bharat celebrates it as the day that Bhagwan Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura. In Jainism, Diwali marks the nirvana, or spiritual awakening, of Bhagwan Mahavira; in Sikhism, it honours the day that Guru Hargobind Ji, the Sixth Sikh Guru, was freed from imprisonment. Diwali is widely celebrated in Bharat, Nepal, Fiji, Guyana, Mauritius, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Pakistan, and by the Hindu diaspora around the globe.
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Organisation
05 dispatches
RSS Vijayadashami Utsav 2026, Nagpur
The centenary year culminates at Reshimbagh: Shastra Puja, Panch Parivartan and more than 10 crore homes reached in the Sampark Abhiyan
The RSS held its annual Vijayadashami Utsav on 20 October at Reshimbagh Ground in Nagpur, which also marked the culmination of its centenary celebrations. Sanjay Gupta, Editor-in-Chief of Dainik Jagran, was the chief guest. Former Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Israeli Consul General in Mumbai Yaniv Revach attended, along with thousands of swayamsevaks, local citizens and prominent public figures including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat delivered the main address, emphasizing Bharat's civilisational identity (Swa), the spiritual foundation of national unity, and overcoming social divisions. He also noted that the year marks the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Ravidas Ji Maharaj.
Before his annual address, Dr Bhagwat performed Shastra Puja, and swayamsevaks presented Ghosh, Path Sanchalan and Yogabhyas. His speech covered an umbrella of subjects, beginning with the Constitution of Bharat, the Sangh and its outreach in society, and the five initiatives of Panch Parivartan taken up during the centenary year. He mentioned that during the Sampark Abhiyan (door-to-door campaign), 10,19,88,511 houses were contacted in 4,61,527 Villages and 41,076 Bastis (Urban areas). He also described the development model and responsible conduct for the society including community service for the welfare of the society.
Dr Mohan Bhagwat said, “The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is working to awaken the Hindu spirit and build the entire society into a well-organized and strong society. Without strength even the sustenance, prestige, and protection of individual life to global life is not possible. Therefore, advocating or working towards building an organized and strong Hindu society is not contrary to the spirit of respecting all faiths or to the emotional unity of the nation. Since the Hindu society’s worldview and nature are inclusive, we must understand that such efforts will only strengthen the emotional unity, goodwill, and good conduct among all of us. It is this very nature and these values, passed down from generation to generation, that inspires Captain Smit Machchhar to put his own life in danger and devote himself to protect human lives.”
He concluded: “After completing the programmes and achieving the objectives of the centenary of its work, the Sangh will move forward towards building an organised, hardworking, victorious force of society.”
साध्य करना है हमे, केशव प्रदर्शित ध्येय सपना । बस उसी की पूर्ति के हित हो समर्पित जन्म अपना ।। तुष्ट माँ होगी तभी तो विश्व में सम्मान पा कर । बढ़ रहे है चरण अगणित बस इसी धुन में निरंतर ।। ध्येय के पथ पर निरंतर ।।
“We must fulfil the dream of our goal, as envisioned by Keshav; let our lives be dedicated solely to its fulfilment. Only then will Bharat Mata be content, and earn respect throughout the world. Countless steps are advancing, ever onward, driven by this very resolve, steadfast on the path to our goal.” || Bharat Mata ki Jai ||
Chief guest Sanjay Gupta congratulated the RSS on its 100th year and said, “The ideologies of the Sangh and Jagran are identical in their commitment and dedication to Bharat’s eternal culture and the nation.”
Since the Hindu society’s worldview and nature are inclusive, we must understand that such efforts will only strengthen the emotional unity, goodwill and good conduct among all of us.
Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale visits the Satras of Majuli
A day among the Vaishnava Satras and Namghars of the river island, with Satradhikars, devotees and the Mising community
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale, Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar and Vidya Bharati Uchcha Shiksha Sansthan Organising Secretary Raghunandan visited Majuli, Assam on 13 October as part of a one-day programme to explore the region’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. After crossing the Kamalabari Ghat in the morning and arriving in Majuli, the delegation visited the historic Sri Sri Auniati Satra. They met Satradhikar Prabhu Ishwar Sri Sri Pitambar Dev Goswami Ji and held discussions on various subjects. The delegation subsequently visited Sri Sri Uttar Kamalabari Satra, where they met Satradhikar Prabhu Ishwar Sri Sri Janardan Dev Goswami Ji and exchanged views on various matters.
Following their visits to both Satras and interactions with the Satradhikars, devotees and Vaishnavas, Dattatreya Hosabale said that he gained valuable insights into Majuli’s art, culture, geographical setting and demographic composition. The delegation also visited Bahpara Namghar in the Mising tribal area, where an Akhand Bhagavat Path programme was organised. After completing the day’s engagements, the delegation departed from Majuli in the afternoon via the Afolamukh Ghat. The visit highlighted the importance of engaging with Assam’s traditional religious institutions and understanding the region’s distinctive cultural heritage, community traditions and spiritual practices.
Rashtra Sevika Samiti Vijayadashami Utsav, Nagpur
Pramukh Sanchalika Shantakka on 90 years of the Samiti: a soldier-like spirit, Rashtra Sarvopari and guiding Gen Z
The Rashtra Sevika Samiti Nagpur Mahanagar organised its annual Vijayadashami Utsav and Shastra Pujan on 16 October at Jaripatka, Nagpur, marking 90 years of the organisation, with Shantakka, Pramukh Sanchalika of the Samiti delivering the keynote address. The programme was attended by Anuradha Prabhudesai, Founder of Lakshya Foundation, as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Shantakka said that the Samiti’s work through its regular shakhas aims to instil a soldier-like mentality among its sevikas, including courage, patience, dedication, commitment and discipline. She explained that these qualities enable trained and dedicated Samiti sevikas to serve society effectively and earn its trust. Shantakka emphasised that society has a duty to guide Gen Z to place the nation above all (Rashtra Sarvo Pari) and actively contribute to nation-building. She noted that true character and intellect are built at home from childhood, urging families to ensure children contribute to the nation.
She highlighted that the organization works with the mantra of "Prabhav se Parinam se Parivartan" (transformation through positive impact and results), pointing to Sevika activities during COVID-19 and community service projects like cleaning village ponds in Jashpur, Chhattisgarh.
Earlier, addressing the gathering, Anuradha Prabhudesai, Founder of Lakshya Foundation, spoke about the lives of soldiers deployed at the borders and the resilience of their families. Describing the courage of soldiers and their mothers, she said, “A soldier is a poem, but a soldier’s mother is an epic.”
Hundreds of sevikas from the region participated in the Utsav. Sevikas performed Pradakshina Sanchalan and sharirik, including martial arts, self-defence techniques and yogasanas. The ritual worship of traditional weapons was carried out by Pramukh Sanchalika Shantakka and the chief guest.
Spiritual and religious leadership dialogue in Champaran
Mahants of 57 maths, sadhus, kathavachaks and granthis meet Sahsarkaryavah Dr Krishna Gopal in the centenary year
RSS, Champaran, organised a Spiritual and Religious Leadership Dialogue at Ramson Plaza as part of the Sangh’s centenary year programme on 16 October. RSS Sahsarkaryavah Dr Krishna Gopal, was the chief speaker. The dialogue witnessed the participation of mahants of 57 maths, sadhus, sannyasis, kathavachaks, 22 heads of various spiritual organisations and granthis from prominent gurudwaras across different areas of the Champaran division. The objective was to deliberate on Sanatan traditions, Bharatiya culture, social harmony and the role of spiritual leadership in the present social scenario.
Dr Krishna Gopal addressed the gathering on issues related to Bharatiya culture, the Sanatan way of life and the role of spiritual values in society. He said that service, good conduct, compassion, self-discipline and public welfare are the life values at the core of Sanatan tradition. Guidance from spiritual leadership plays an important role in establishing these values in people’s lives.
Following the address, an interaction was held with the sadhus and sants. During the dialogue, sants shared their views on the present state of their respective maths, temples and spiritual organisations, as well as issues related to the contemporary social scenario. They also shared their experiences concerning the role of spiritual institutions, their engagement with society and the preservation of religious and cultural traditions in the present times.
‘Asluk Aalav’: diverse voices unite for peace, trust and harmony in Srinagar
Traders, youth leaders, scholars and civil society share a platform with the RSS in the heart of Kashmir
Diverse sections of Kashmiri society, from traders and youth leaders to civil society members, intellectuals and religious scholars, shared a common platform with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at a mega conference organised in Srinagar on 21 October. The conference, held under the banner of 'Asluk Aalav' (Our Call), was jointly organised by the RSS in collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir Development Foundation (JKDF) and Al Rahim Trust, and is being seen as a key moment in the Valley's socio-political narrative.
The Akhil Bharatiya Sampark Pramukh of RSS, Ram Lal, attended the conference as chief guest. Addressing the gathering, Ram Lal said, "Dialogue and meaningful interaction among different sections of society are essential to strengthening mutual understanding, trust and social harmony."
JKDF Chairman Bilal Parray said, "Through Asluk Aalav, our endeavour is to create a common platform where people from diverse backgrounds can exchange ideas and contribute to the progress and harmony of Jammu and Kashmir."
Al Rahim Trust Chairman Nazir Ahmad Gilkar said, "This conference reflects our commitment to bringing communities together through dialogue, cooperation and a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir."
Organisers said the initiative seeks to create opportunities for meaningful interaction, enabling people from different backgrounds to exchange ideas, address concerns through dialogue and work together towards peace, social cohesion and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Bharatiya diaspora
11 dispatches
HSS Japan marks its 11th Dussehra Milan in Tokyo
Around 300 swayamsevaks, sevikas and bal-balikas in Edogawa, with two Mahamandaleshwars and the theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) Japan commemorated its 11th Dussehra Milan in Edogawa City, Tokyo on 18 October, bringing together around 300 Swayamsevaks, Sevikas and Bal-Balikas for a celebration of unity, discipline, cultural heritage and community harmony. The highlights of the event were Path Sanchalan by Swayamsevaks, Shastra Puja, Vyayam Yog, Niyudha, Yogchap and Dand Abhyas. Along with this, a Dussehra drawing competition and an art exhibition showcasing HSS activities like Family Shivir, Bal Marathon, Sewa, Sakhai Milan and Hindu Youth Camp, were organised. The names of the 12 winners of the Dussehra drawing competition were announced. The local Japanese community also witnessed the event proceedings.
The occasion was graced by several distinguished guests, including Oonishi Yohei, Member of Parliament from Tokyo’s 16th District (Edogawa); Harihar Kant Paudel, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Nepal; and Dhiraj Mukhiya, Counsellor (Minister), Embassy of Bharat. This year’s Dussehra Milan was also blessed by the presence of two revered Mahamandaleshwars, Bala Kumbh Gurumuni Maharaj (Takayuki Hoshi) and Yogmata Keiko Aikawa. Reflecting this year’s theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – “The World is One Family”, HSS Japan also recognized several Japanese organizations and individuals for their contributions toward promoting cultural exchange, mutual understanding and harmony among people of diverse backgrounds.
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HSS Taiwan: Hindu Heritage Camp and Vijayadashami Utsav
Charcha, a Ramayana–Mahabharata quiz and Sangh Parichay at the Nangang Community Center
The Hindu Heritage Camp (HHC) and Vijayadashami Utsav were successfully organized by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS), Taiwan, on 17 October at the Nangang Community Center, Taipei. The event brought together 30 participants including swayamsevaks, sevikas, children, and families for a day of physical activities, intellectual discussions, cultural learning, and collective celebration.
The highlights of the Hindu Heritage Camp were: Charcha session focused on the challenges of Hindu society in Taiwan; a quiz session, Prashna Manjusha, based on Ramayana, Mahabharata followed by Sangh Parichay session which was led by Santosh Pillai, Vishwa Vibhag Karyalaya Pramukh from Bharat.
The day culminated with Vijayadashami Utsav which included Yogabhyas and other sharirik activities. During the Bauddhik session Santosh Pillai emphasized the importance of steadfast dedication to organizing society for the achievement of world peace and tranquillity in the light of universal Dharma. He explained that every organization must focus on three essential elements: mobilization, continuity, and sustainability. The programme concluded with HSS Prarthana and Dhwajavataran, bringing the day’s activities to a formal close.
HSS Kenya Vijayadashami Utsav, Nairobi
A Ghosh-led route march from the ISKCON temple, a Swastika by Baalgokulam and a Chakravyuha by the senior boys
HSS Kenya celebrated the Vijayadashami Utsav on 25 October at Jamhuri High School grounds in Nairobi. The programme began with sevikas and swayamsevaks from different shakhas taking part in a route march accompanied by Ghosh on the streets of Ngara, starting from ISKCON Temple to the venue. The Sevikas & Swayamsevaks displayed various physical activities such as Niyudha, Dand, dumbbell formations as well as musical formation sequences. Baalgokulam group formed Swastika while senior boys displayed Chakravyuha. There was a pyramid formation display as well by teenage swayamsevaks. A total of 167 swayamsevaks, sevikas and around 120 guests were present during the event.
The chief guest of the event was Dr Bimal Kantaria, renowned businessman, social worker and Trustee of Hindu Council of Kenya. He recalled his younger days with HSS. He added that we must take pride in being Hindus and always remember our ancestry which is directly or indirectly connected to Bharat. Mayur Shir, Sah-Karyawah of HSS Kenya, explained how Dharma has an answer to many of the world’s challenges. The Chairperson of HCK, Sujhata Kotamraju, HSS Kenya Sanghchalak Paresh Shah and other eminent personalities graced the occasion.
HSS South Africa celebrates Vijayadashami in Phoenix, Durban
120 swayamsevaks and sevikas show Niyuddha, Yogachap, stick fighting and a marching band
HSS is an organization dedicated to Hindu unity with a simple methodology: come together, think together, and work together for the upliftment of Sanatan Dharma. With this spirit, the HSS Durban successfully hosted a Vijayadashami celebration on 25 October in Phoenix, Durban to showcase the strength of Hindu youth and Hindu unity.
A total of 120 Swayamsevaks & Sevikas in HSS uniform took part in the programme. The participants demonstrated Niyuddha, yoga, Yogachap, stick fighting, and marching band performances. The chief guest was Thaniga Moodley from Chatsworth, who serves as the Chairperson of the Railway Barracks. In his speech, he emphasized the necessity of Hindu unity and collaborative efforts to promote Hindu culture.
Dr Ram Vaidya, the HSS Joint Global Coordinator based in the UK and the program's keynote speaker, elaborated on the significance of Hindu cultural values and called for an acceleration of activities centered on cultural awakening. The program concluded with the Vishwa Prarthana and the lowering of the Dhwaja.
HSS Canada Vijayadashami Utsav
Halton and Hamilton Vibhag in Oakville and Kitchener Vibhag in Breslau celebrate with Shakha demonstrations
On 25 October, the Halton and Hamilton Vibhag celebrated its annual Vijayadashami Utsav at Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School, Oakville. Around 250 people attended, including swayamsevaks, sevikas, and invited guests from the different Hindu communities across the Halton and Hamilton region. The highlight of the program was the Shakha demonstrations, where all nine Shakhas of the Vibhag took part.
Kitchener Vibhag also celebrated Vijayadashami Utsav 2026 on 25 October at Breslau Community Centre, Ontario. Swayamsevaks, sevikas, and guests came together for an evening of Shakha demonstrations, discipline, and community spirit, marking the victory of good over evil. HSS continues to build a strong, service-minded Hindu community through Shakha, Sanskar, and Seva.
HSS USA North Houston Vibhag Vijayadashami Utsav
360 participants at Freeman High School, and over 7,000 volunteers at more than 50 Utsavs across America
With great enthusiasm, devotion, and a spirit of togetherness, North Houston Vibhag celebrated Vijayadashami Utsav on 24 October at Freeman High School, Katy. The utsav witnessed a total sankhya of 360 participants, including 245 Ganveshdhari, 85 guests, and 30 Ghosh Vadaks.
Kho-Kho Pratiyogita, featuring 12 teams; Path Sanchalan - accompanied by inspiring tunes of Ghosh Gana; Pradarshans - a total of seven performances by Swayamsevaks, Sevikas, Kishors and Balas of all seven Shakhas of NHV; were among the attractions of the event.
Houston Sanghchalak Subhash Gupta, National Bauddhik Pramukh Arun Sharma, Mukhya Atithi Sunanda Vashist, and Atithi Pandokar Maharaj were present on the occasion. SDSV Temple, Hanuman Datta Yoga center, Hanuman Mandir of greater Houston and Gayatri Parivar representatives graced the event. It also featured the delicious satvik Bhojan prepared by Vadtal Dham Temple.
This year HSS USA’s Vijayadashami Utsav celebrations brought together over 7,000 volunteers at more than 50 locations across the country, marking HSS’s founding day in America.
With Diwali approaching fast, let us give back as the Hindu American community and drop off food at a centre through the yearly Sewa Diwali initiative.
105 US lawmakers seek FBI probe into Illinois Hindu temple attack
A bipartisan letter led by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi asks whether hate motivated the foiled attack on the Balaji Temple
A bipartisan group of 105 US lawmakers has urged the Federal Bureau of Investigation to investigate an alleged attempt to carry out a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois as a possible federal hate crime, citing concerns over growing threats against Bharatiya-Americans and other South Asian communities.
The congressional appeal was led by Bharatiya American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, who was worshipping with his family at the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora when the alleged attack was attempted on 11 October. In a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel on 20 October, the lawmakers called for a comprehensive investigation into whether racial or religious hatred motivated the suspect and whether others helped plan or encourage the alleged attack.
The signatories include all Bharatiya American members of Congress, the entire Illinois House Democratic delegation and Senators Dick Durbin, Tammy Duckworth, Andy Kim and Chris Van Hollen.
According to prosecutors, 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis of Palatine, Illinois, drove to the temple intending to carry out a shooting but fled after his rifle malfunctioned. He was arrested later that day; investigators recovered a rifle, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, body armor and white supremacist imagery.
USPS prints 20 million rangoli stamps for Diwali
Only the second Diwali stamp in the US, designed by Houston artist Sangita Bhutada
The US Postal Service (USPS) has printed 20 million of its new Diwali Forever stamps, citing strong advocacy by the Bharatiya community and the popularity of the first stamp issued to mark the festival. The stamp, featuring a colorful rangoli design created by Houston-based artist Sangita Bhutada against a purple background, was unveiled at the Bharatiya Embassy in Washington on 21 October.
The new stamp is only the second issued by USPS to mark Diwali. The first was released in 2016 and proved popular with the Bharatiya community, with millions sold. The stamps are sold in panes of 20 at post offices and online. As Forever stamps, they will always cover the current First-Class Mail postage rate for a one-ounce letter.
Diwali comes to Disney World
More than 500 dancers in the Grand Diwali Parade before Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom
More than 500 dancers dressed in colourful Indian costumes brought the spirit of Diwali to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, US, on 23 October. The performers took part in the Grand Diwali Parade at Magic Kingdom. The celebration showed Bharatiya music, dance and traditions against the backdrop of the famous Cinderella Castle.
The parade was part of the fourth annual Diwali Dance Fest, organised by Jashn Productions. According to the organisers, the 2026 festival featured more than 500 performers from 25 dance studios across four continents. The festivities began on 22 October with a Diwali Mela at EPCOT’s World Showplace Pavilion, where more than 1,100 registered dancers and guests gathered for an evening of food, music and cultural celebrations.
Two Bharatiya Canadian leaders win mayor seats in British Columbia
Harshan Ramadass takes Fernie, and Surinderpal Rathor wins a second term in Williams Lake
Two Bharatiya Canadian leaders have been elected mayors after municipal election results were declared in Canada’s British Columbia. British Columbia residents voted on 17 October in the 2026 municipal election.
Bharat-born Harshan Ramadass has won Fernie’s mayor’s seat over fellow councillor Kyle Hamilton. Ramadass took 54.5 per cent of the vote with 1,524 votes compared to Hamilton’s 1,194.
In Williams Lake, Bharatiya-origin Surinderpal Rathor was re-elected as the Williams Lake mayor. Rathor has been elected for a second term, receiving 2,116 votes and beating his opponent, Walt Cobb, by over 1,000 votes. Rathor was elected mayor in 2022 after serving as a city councillor for more than 20 years. He arrived in Williams Lake in 1974 after immigrating from Bharat at the age of 21.
Hindu Council of Australia’s 70 km Paada Yatra
Over 500 walkers from Mays Hill to Helensburgh for peace, harmony and community unity
On 3–4 October, the Hindu Council of Australia organised the 70 km Paada Yatra, where over 500 participants joined the spiritual journey dedicated to peace, harmony and community unity. The journey route map included Murugan Temple, Mays Hill; Saibaba Temple, Strathfield and Sri Venkateshwara Temple, Helensburgh.
Despite challenging weather conditions, the enthusiasm, determination and devotion of participants were truly inspiring. Volunteers, temple committees, supporters and dedicated teams worked tirelessly behind the scenes for organising the walk and ensuring everyone's safety, providing food, refreshments and encouragement along the way.
Service
01 dispatch
Seva Bharati Jaipur annual celebration
Seva should awaken self-respect and self-reliance, says the Sarkaryavah; 379 projects run in 257 bastis of the city
On 26 October, addressing the annual function of the Jaipur unit of Seva Bharati as chief speaker, RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale said that the purpose of seva is not merely to provide facilities to those in need but also to awaken self-respect, self-reliance and the spirit of hard work among them.
He said Seva should empower those receiving it to become providers of service themselves. He also called upon capable members of society to visit Seva Bastis and build close, personal relationships with the people living there.
He said that organisations associated with Seva Bharati are running around 1.5 lakh small and large service initiatives across the country. Referring to the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, he said that Bhagwan Ram demonstrated the importance of every member of society through his affection for Kevat, Shabari and the squirrel.
The programme was held in the presence of Naval Peethadhishwar Sant Munna Das Ji Khoda. Sanjay Gupta, director of Mangalam Group, attended as the chief guest, while Nikhil Jain and Vijendra Singh Tanwar were present as special guests.
During the programme, the Seva Bharati website and app were launched, and a special edition of the book Bharatiya Sanskriti Mein Seva Parampara was released. The newly constructed building of the Yashoda Bal Seva Kendra in the Vishwakarma Industrial Area was also inaugurated digitally. Children from different Seva Bastis presented cultural programmes and staged a play highlighting the harmful effects of social media. According to the committee, 379 service initiatives are being run across 257 bastis in Jaipur city. These projects cover education, healthcare, self-reliance and social activities.
Bharat
05 dispatches
Ayodhya Ram Mandir marks Vijayadashami with grand Mahabhishek
Mahabhishek of Shri Ram Lalla, Shastra Puja, Chhappan Bhog and a new Kanya Pujan at the Yagyashala
Vijayadashami was celebrated with special religious ceremonies at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir on 20 October, marking the culmination of Sharadiya Navratri. The celebrations featured the Mahabhishek of Shri Ram Lalla, Shastra Puja, a special Chhappan Bhog offering and a newly introduced Kanya Pujan ceremony. The festivities commenced early in the morning with the Mahabhishek of Shri Ram Lalla Virajman in the sanctum sanctorum.
In a significant new initiative, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust also organised a traditional Kanya Pujan ceremony at the Yagyashala within the temple complex. Swami Dinendra Das of the Nirmohi Akhara, also a trustee of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, served as the chief Yajman of the ceremony. The ceremony was attended by other office bearers of the Trust including Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra (Retd.), Chief Executive Officer of the Trust.
The Vijayadashami celebrations followed the sacred observances of Sharadiya Navratri, which began with Ghatasthapana, the ceremonial installation of the sacred Kalash. Five temple priests conducted the Shat Chandi Path, while Dashansh Havan and Purnahuti were performed on Navami, marking the conclusion of the Navratri rituals.
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PM inaugurates Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan
More than 9,000 participants mark 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission; the Prime Minister meets a holographic Swami Chinmayananda
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 23 October inaugurated the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan in New Delhi and interacted with a holographic avatar of spiritual leader Swami Chinmayananda, recalling his meeting with the guru in 1993.
Addressing the gathering, Modi described the occasion as a unique spiritual experience and thanked the saints for their blessings. “It is another kind of spiritual experience. This is a blessing from our saints for me. The Chinmaya Mission is not merely an institution; it represents ‘Chinmaya Vichar’,” he said.
Recalling his first meeting with Swami Chinmayananda 33 years ago, Modi said he had approached the spiritual leader to invite him to the centenary celebrations of the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago.
The Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan, held from 23 to 25 October, brought together more than 9,000 participants from Bharat and abroad. It marks the culmination of year-long celebrations commemorating 75 years of the Chinmaya Mission, founded by Swami Chinmayananda in 1951 to make the teachings of Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita accessible to all.
The celebrations began last year with Modi releasing a Tamil versification of the Bhagavad Gita, produced by the Chinmaya Mission with music composed by Ilaiyaraaja, at Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu.
Other initiatives during the year included mass havans at multiple locations, the consecration of the Maa Soundarya Chinmayi Temple in Tripura and the Chinmaya Gita Samarpanam, in which more than one lakh people worldwide chanted the 15th chapter of the Bhagavad Gita together online. The Mission also launched Gita Panchamrit, focusing on five selected verses from the Bhagavad Gita. To spread the Gita’s teachings across India, 15 young members of the Chinmaya Yuva Kendra undertook the Chinmaya Amrit Yatra, travelling more than 40,000 km across the country.
‘Bali in Bengaluru’: a 16-day cultural festival
Balinese dance meets Yakshagana as 25 artists led by Padma Shri I Wayan Dibia retell the Ramayana
Thousands of kilometres separate Indonesia’s Bali island from Bengaluru, but their cultural traditions share remarkable similarities rooted in Hindu practices, temple rituals and the timeless epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. These connections came alive during ‘Bali in Bengaluru’, a 16-day cultural festival organised by the Param Foundation from 3 to 18 October, which brought together artists, performers and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the shared heritage of the two regions.
The fest featured 25 Balinese artists—led by Padma Shri awardee I Wayan Dibia—who collaborated with local performers like K Krishnamoorthy Thunga and Anupama Hoskere. A centerpiece performance at Chowdiah Memorial Hall on 13 October combined Balinese dance and Karnataka's traditional Yakshagana, using alternating sequences to retell episodes from the Ramayana. Events included an open-air opening night of the Kecak chant at Orion Mall, Indonesian shadow puppetry, Gamelan music workshops, and school cultural sessions.
The event demonstrated how cultural traditions can build bridges between communities despite geographical distance, linguistic differences and distinct performance styles.
At UN Hindi Divas, Bharat highlights the language’s global reach
Bharat voluntarily funds UN news in Hindi, recognised in the new resolution on multilingualism
Hindi continues to retain its non-official language status at the United Nations, with Bharat voluntarily funding efforts to make UN news and information available in Hindi, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, P Harish, said on 8 October.
Speaking at the observance of Hindi Divas at the UN, Harish said the language’s continued presence in the Department of Global Communications’ (DGC) news and social media services was recognized in a recently adopted resolution on multilingualism.
The multilingualism resolution, co-sponsored by Andorra and adopted by the UN General Assembly last month, recognizes the cultural, political and diplomatic importance of non-official languages in ensuring representation and effective participation in the organization’s work. It also reaffirms that representatives may deliver statements in non-official languages.
Maldives thanks Bharat for currency swap facility
A 30 billion rupee swap is rolled over under the ‘Neighbours First’ policy
Bharat approved the request of the Maldives government for the rollover of a 30 billion rupee currency swap facility as part of New Delhi’s ‘Neighbours First’ policy and the commitment to deepening bilateral relations with the island nation.
Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam thanked External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and the Government for the decision. In a post on X, on 16 October, she said that the decision reaffirms the longstanding bonds of friendship between Maldives and India, rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and goodwill.
The facility is being extended under the Framework on Currency Swap Arrangement for SAARC countries, signed between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority during Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to India in October 2024.
Pride
03 dispatches
British couple travels to Lucknow for IVF treatment
“The Indian healthcare system blew my mind”: results in minutes, not weeks, at a fraction of the cost
In their quest to become parents, British couple Dave Flew and his wife travelled all the way to Lucknow for IVF treatment. Flew recently posted a video titled “The Indian healthcare system blew my mind”. He was most impressed that he got test results in minutes, not weeks — one of the biggest differences he highlighted. According to him, appointments were timely, and he could undergo a number of tests within the same hospital building without having to navigate different locations.
“To be able to come here to a place like this and have this kind of treatment at such a very cost-effective price point, and have all of this treatment so fast, I am struggling to get my head around it!” he said further.
In the UK, couples who do not qualify for publicly funded treatment, or who choose private care, may face substantial expenses. Bharat's combination of private healthcare facilities, diagnostic services and comparatively affordable treatment can be attractive to international patients.
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SBI wins World’s Best Consumer Bank award
A second consecutive Global Finance award, as YONO crosses 10 crore registered users
State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest bank, has won the World’s Best Consumer Bank 2026 award from Global Finance magazine, marking its second consecutive win. The award was presented to the bank on the sidelines of the IMF Annual Meeting 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Over the past year, SBI strengthened its customer franchise through continued investments in digital innovation, service excellence and financial inclusion. The bank launched the new YONO platform, crossed 10 crore registered YONO users, and introduced AI-powered customer services and personalised digital experiences.
Bodhana Sivanandan becomes youngest female International Master
At 11, she breaks Judit Polgar’s 38-year-old record
Bharatiya-origin English chess player Bodhana Sivanandan has become the youngest female International Master (IM) at the age of 11, breaking a 38-year-old record set by Judit Polgar.
At this week’s European Women’s Chess Club Cup, Sivanandan came close to drawing her opening-round match against Russian Grandmaster Aleksandra Goryachkina before defeating Belarusian International Master Olga Badelka in the third round to take her rating to 2399.4. She then drew against Georgian Grandmaster Nino Batsiashvili in the following round. However, her 32-move victory over Sweden’s Woman International Master Viktoria Johansson helped her achieve the distinction and join the list of the 10 youngest IMs of all time.
The list includes India’s R Praggnanandhaa and D Gukesh, Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Argentina’s Faustino Oro, Turkey’s Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus and Russia’s Roman Shogdzhiev.
Book review
01 dispatch
Sanatan Dharma as the future of humanity: P Parameswaran on Sri Aurobindo
‘Sri Aurobindo — The Philosopher of the Future’, now in English translation by R Sasidharan Pillai
Sri Aurobindo’s intellectual legacy extends beyond Bharat’s freedom struggle to encompass human evolution, spiritual transformation and the future of civilisation. In a book ‘Sri Aurobindo—The Philosopher of the Future’, the late P Parameswaran presents an accessible introduction to his life, revolutionary nationalism, philosophical contributions and spiritual vision. Originally written in Malayalam, the book is now available in English through the translation of Sri R Sasidharan Pillai, published by Bharatheeya Vichara Kendram, Keralam.
Divided into four parts, the book explores Sri Aurobindo’s journey from revolutionary nationalist to spiritual philosopher, highlighting the continuing relevance of his ideas for India and humanity.
P Parameswaran (1927–2020) was an RSS pracharak from Keralam and a renowned intellectual who headed several organizations. He received the Padma Vibhushan, Bharat’s second-highest civilian award, in 2018.
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From Sanatan Dharma to Global Success: How Hindus are shaping America through enterprise, innovation and Seva
Millions of hardworking Hindus proudly call America home, fuelling its economy and culture while staying fiercely loyal to their ancient roots. At the heart of this success stand sacred Hindu temples, driving prosperity, community unity and the timeless values of Seva.
Across the world, the Indian diaspora has played a vital role in building vibrant communities, and nowhere is this more evident than in the United States. Today, millions of hardworking Hindus call America home, contributing to its economy, culture and social fabric while staying deeply connected to their roots. At the heart of this thriving community stand Hindu temples — not just as places of worship, but as pillars of heritage, unity and progress.
From creating jobs and supporting local economies to sharing timeless Indian values like family, discipline and community service, Hindus and their temples have become key drivers of growth and prosperity in America. By taking pride in Sanatan Dharma while contributing to global progress, the Hindu American community demonstrates how ancient traditions can build modern success stories.
On 11 October 2026, 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis was arrested in Illinois, USA, after law enforcement foiled his plot to carry out a deadly mass shooting at the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora. Authorities seized an assault rifle, high-capacity ammunition, tactical equipment and a manifesto filled with white supremacist hatred.
This thwarted attack highlights an alarming wave of Hinduphobia and targeted violence against sacred Sanatan Dharma sites across the United States. As Hindu temples — the bedrock of our ancient culture, community strength and economic prosperity — increasingly become targets of violent extremism, the global Hindu community faces an urgent need for heightened vigilance, unity and decisive action to protect its heritage and places of worship abroad.
This report highlights how the 2.5-million-strong Hindu American community serves as a formidable force powering the United States through economic prowess, corporate brilliance and unyielding devotion to Sanatan Dharma. From tech visionaries like Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, Arvind Krishna and Shantanu Narayen leading global innovation, to hardworking Gujarati Patel entrepreneurs driving the American hospitality industry by owning 60% of US hotels and creating millions of jobs, Hindus stand at the pinnacle of success and leadership. Deeply rooted in the eternal values of Seva and Dharma, Hindu temples and organisations across the country actively safeguard our culture while serving as pillars of strength through massive disaster relief and humanitarian service. Ultimately, the Hindu American diaspora exemplifies how taking proud ownership of Indian heritage and cultural values builds tremendous wealth, stability and respect on the world stage.
A Thriving Force: Hindu Americans powering the nation
Making up roughly 2.3 to 2.5 million people (about 48% of the 5.2 million Indian Americans in the US), the Hindu American diaspora stands as one of the most dynamic, integrated and accomplished communities in the country. Accounting for nearly one per cent of the national population, Hindu Americans have established a formidable presence across critical sectors, including high technology, healthcare, financial services, higher education and hospitality. Beyond individual professional excellence, their strong roots have driven systemic institution-building through the creation of hundreds of mandirs across the nation. These temples serve not only as sacred spiritual sanctuaries, but also as cultural conservatories, philanthropic powerhouses and local economic engines.
Unmatched academic and financial success
The Hindu American community continues to lead by example through sheer dedication, hard work and a commitment to excellence. A staggering 70% of Hindu Americans hold at least a four-year bachelor’s degree — nearly double the US national average of 36%. Furthermore, 61% of Asian American Hindus hold postgraduate degrees, almost tripling the overall Asian American adult average of 22%. This relentless focus on education translates directly into economic leadership: 44% of Hindu American households earn over USD 150,000 annually, far outpacing national averages. Their strong leadership in management, science, engineering and professional services contributes immensely to tax revenues, domestic investments and national growth.
The Patel Community: Building America’s hospitality empire
A shining example of Hindu entrepreneurial grit is the remarkable success of the Gujarati Patel community in the US hospitality sector. Led by figures like Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) Chairman Miraj S Patel, Hindu Gujarati hoteliers — who make up over three-fourths of AAHOA’s membership — have built a massive business footprint. According to an Oxford Economics study, AAHOA members own 34,260 hotels, representing an astounding 60% of all hotels across the United States. This Hindu-led industry supports 4.2 million American jobs, drives USD 368.4 billion in GDP and generates USD 96.8 billion in tax revenues, proving the immense economic value of Hindu enterprise.
Defending Sanatan Dharma: Confronting threats to sacred spaces
Despite their peaceful, highly law-abiding presence and massive contributions, Hindu temples and institutions face growing threats, vandalism and hate. A chilling reminder of this vulnerability occurred on 11 October 2026, when law enforcement foiled a planned mass shooting targeting the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, Illinois. This thwarted violent plot highlights the urgent need to address anti-Hindu hatred and protect holy mandirs from ideologically motivated attacks. Even amid these safety concerns, Hindu Americans remain steadfast in their values, injecting Seva (selfless service) and Dharma (moral duty) into the fabric of American society, enriching the nation culturally while generating billions in economic vitality.
Conquering Corporate America: The 21 Indian-origin titans leading global giants
From cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity to pharmaceuticals, banking, luxury and manufacturing, brilliant Indian-origin minds are at the helm of the world’s most powerful organisations. The proud list of leaders heading these trillion-dollar companies includes Srinivas Gopalan, Rahul Goyal, Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella, Neal Mohan, Ajay Banga, Nikesh Arora, George Kurian, Jayshree Ullal, Shantanu Narayen, Arvind Krishna, Vasant (Vas) Narasimhan, Sanjay Mehrotra, Vimal Kapur, Revathi Advaithi, Niraj Shah, Leena Nair, Anirudh Devgan, Ravi Kumar S, Jay Chaudhry and Reshma Kewalramani.
These 21 visionary executives showcase the unstoppable rise and exceptional calibre of the Indian diaspora, driving trillions of dollars in innovation, creating millions of jobs, and steering the engines of the US and global economies with pure hard work and excellence.
A Sacred Pillar of Sanatan Dharma: The Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, Illinois
Proudly standing as one of the largest and oldest Hindu temples in the American Midwest, the Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple in Aurora, Illinois, was founded in the mid-1980s by visionary Indian immigrants according to strict, traditional Vedic rituals, and operates as a registered nonprofit religious organisation under US law.
Built using authentic South Indian Dravidian architecture, the temple features a magnificent, decorated entrance tower, intricate granite shrines and stunning stone carvings meticulously crafted by skilled Indian temple architects. Its main sanctum is dedicated to Bhagwan Venkateswara (a powerful form of Bhagwan Vishnu), alongside sacred shrines honouring Maa Mahalakshmi, Andal, Ganesha, Shiva, Parvati, Subrahmanya and Ayyappa, where devotees devoutly perform the traditional ritual of pradakshina (circumambulation).
Beyond being a spiritual sanctuary, the temple serves as a vibrant community anchor through daily worship, grand religious festivals, cultural programmes and educational initiatives. It invests in the future through a dedicated scholarship fund offering USD 10,000 awards to eligible first-year undergraduate students based on academic merit and financial need. Demonstrating true Hindu values of Seva, the temple partnered with VNA Health Care and local groups in April 2021 for the “Indian Vax Aurora” initiative, vaccinating 750 people against COVID-19. Through active volunteering, youth engagement and cultural preservation, this magnificent institution keeps our timeless Sanatan heritage alive while strengthening the diaspora’s positive footprint in America.
Pillars of Prosperity and Seva: How Hindu Temples enrich America
Hindu temples across the United States do far more than serve as sacred spaces of worship; they function as powerful economic engines and hubs of selfless community service (Seva). Through construction, maintenance, local business spending and cultural tourism, these magnificent mandirs inject immense vitality into the American economy while preserving our timeless Sanatan traditions through festivals, language classes, music, dance and religious education.
Furthermore, they uplift society by supporting senior citizens, driving environmental and tree-planting initiatives, promoting green spaces, and assisting disadvantaged families through food drives, health camps, educational scholarships and disaster relief. Across the United States, prominent Hindu institutions showcase this massive impact through tangible numbers and dedicated service:
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham (Robbinsville, New Jersey, and national network): Operating 108 vibrant mandirs across 35 US states, BAPS welcomes roughly 4 million annual visitors across its network. Guided by eternal Hindu values, its charitable arm delivers vital community support — from scholarships and free healthcare camps to large-scale disaster relief and environmental tree-planting initiatives.
Sri Venkateswara Temple (Penn Hills, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania): Established in 1975, this historic temple offers daily worship, annual festivals and educational resources alongside its bustling cafeteria, religious supply services and facility maintenance. Demonstrating strong financial health and operational scale, its affiliated nonprofit filing reported USD 2.17 million in revenue, USD 1.31 million in expenses and USD 246,887 in employee salaries and wages.
Austin Hindu Temple and Community Centre (Austin, Texas): A cornerstone of the Texas Hindu community, its fiscal 2025 nonprofit financial record showed USD 2.57 million in total revenue (including USD 1.34 million in generous community contributions and USD 947,000 in programme-service income), alongside USD 1.54 million in expenses and USD 427,014 dedicated to staff salaries and wages.
Hindu Temple Society of New Mexico (Albuquerque, New Mexico): Deeply rooted in civic responsibility, this temple partners with local organisations like the Roadrunner Food Bank and God’s Warehouse to run impactful food drives, such as collecting vital donations during Diwali. It also enriches public well-being by running a Bal Vihar Sunday school, religious instruction, community activities and daily free online yoga classes.
Through unwavering devotion, economic contributions and deep-rooted community partnerships, Hindu temples proudly demonstrate how ancient spiritual values build modern American success stories.
Embodying Seva: How Hindu organisations and Temples serve and protect America
Rooted in the eternal Hindu principle of Seva and Dharma, Hindu temples and organisations across the United States consistently step forward as pillars of strength during times of crisis. Demonstrating true civic responsibility and compassion, Hindu volunteers and institutions have repeatedly proved their dedication to American society through monumental humanitarian relief efforts:
Supporting LA’s frontline heroes: On 27 April 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, BAPS Charities donated 5,000 surgical masks and 650 fresh hot meals to frontline medical workers at the Los Angeles Surge Hospital (operating out of the former St Vincent Medical Centre). At a time when ICUs were overwhelmed, local leaders like Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L Solis and CEO Julie Sprengel publicly praised BAPS for providing vital protection and nourishment.
Empowering Minnesota healthcare: In 2022, BAPS Charities extended its pandemic support by donating USD 10,000 to the United Hospital Foundation, aiding healthcare services across Minnesota and western Wisconsin within Allina Health’s network of 11 hospitals and 90+ clinics. Hospital President Jill Ostream warmly thanked BAPS for its wide-reaching contributions to testing, vaccinations and community relief.
Care packages and comfort across North America: During COVID-19, BAPS Charities, working alongside BAPS Shayona, delivered essential care packages to over 8,000 families across North America while strictly following safety protocols. They also donated over 5,500 N95 masks to hospitals in New York and New Jersey, and combated isolation by making wellness check-in calls to vulnerable older adults.
Rescuing Texans during Hurricane Harvey: Following Hurricane Harvey’s devastating landfall on 25 August 2017, which dumped over 50 inches of rain and displaced thousands, BAPS Charities volunteers immediately mobilised in Houston and surrounding areas. By 28 August, volunteers had served 200 hot meals to stranded University of Houston students and local residents, while the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Stafford, Texas, and volunteers’ homes safely sheltered 225 evacuees.
Relieving hurricane victims in Florida: In the wake of Hurricane Ian in September 2022, local Hindu temples and Sewa International launched massive relief operations. The temple served over 3,000 meals in total (more than 500 hot meals daily) to emergency shelter residents and healthcare workers, directly assisting over 400 families. Sewa International also released USD 25,000 in immediate relief funding to distribute drinking water, food and essential supplies.
Through unmatched charity, tireless volunteering and an unwavering commitment to public welfare, Hindu Americans proudly demonstrate how ancient spiritual values translate into modern, life-saving action on American soil.
Ultimately, the Hindu American community stands as a shining example of how traditional values, unwavering hard work and deep spiritual roots can build an undeniable legacy of success and prosperity in a modern nation. Through economic leadership, unmatched academic achievement, thriving entrepreneurial enterprises and a steadfast commitment to Seva, Hindus and their sacred mandirs continue to enrich America’s social and cultural fabric. By taking immense pride in Sanatan Dharma while contributing profoundly to public welfare and national growth, the diaspora proves that timeless heritage and modern excellence go hand in hand.
First published in Organiser — read the original article
