On October 17, 2024, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Los Angeles, California, hosted its inaugural “Diwali for Diplomats” event, aimed at promoting international relations while celebrating the festival of Diwali. This remarkable evening attracted representatives from over 15 diplomatic missions, including Consuls General and staff from various countries. The initiative was inspired by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision of enhancing global harmony, embodied in the saying, “In the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.” The festivities kicked off with a Welcome Reception at the Haveli, where diplomats were warmly greeted by volunteers adorned with garlands, accompanied by traditional Indian music…
Author: Rajan Narayanan
On Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate for president, announced her intention to establish a bipartisan council of advisors to provide policy feedback if she wins the election on November 5. Harris also indicated her commitment to including a Republican in her Cabinet, stating, “I don’t want any ‘Yes’ people. I want people to come in and kick the tires on ideas,” during her address at a campaign event in Arizona aimed at garnering Republican support. To ensure structured input on policy matters, she emphasized the need for a bipartisan council, saying, “So I’m going to create a…
With just three weeks remaining until the pivotal US Presidential Elections, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are fiercely competing for victory. In Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state, Trump held two rallies earlier this week, while Harris enlisted the help of former President Barack Obama to rally support for the Democrats. Recent polls indicate an exceptionally close race, with varying leads for both candidates across different surveys. Cameron Kerry, a professor at the Brookings Institution, emphasized that this election is shaping up to be “extremely tight,” with either Harris or Trump having the potential to secure the presidency. In an interview…
For the first time, Durga Puja was celebrated at New York’s Times Square, drawing large crowds of Indian-Americans to the event. Viral videos showed a beautiful Durga Puja Pandal in the middle of the famous landmark, with many people enjoying the vibrant festivities. Instagram influencer Ruchika Jain shared a video announcing the start of the Puja, encouraging the Indian-American community to join in. The two-day celebration, organized by The Bengali Club USA, began with Nabami Puja and Durga Stotras, traditional rituals marking the ninth day of the festival. These were followed by Nabami Puja Anjali, where devotees offered their prayers…
Indian American historian and professor Shailaja Paik, from the University of Cincinnati, has been awarded an $800,000 “genius” grant from the MacArthur Foundation for her pioneering research into the struggles faced by Dalit women in India. This prestigious fellowship is awarded annually to individuals who demonstrate exceptional creativity and potential in their fields. The MacArthur Foundation praised Paik for her deep exploration of the multifaceted experiences of Dalit women, revealing the systemic caste-based discrimination that perpetuates untouchability. As an affiliate faculty member in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Paik’s remarkable journey from Pune’s Yerwada slum to becoming a renowned academic…
The Indian government is currently evaluating a proposal for a “Made in India” label aimed at enhancing the country’s brand recognition in global markets, as reported by news agency PTI on October 2. Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that a high-level committee is assessing the specifics of this initiative. The goal is to forge a robust brand identity for India, reminiscent of the strong quality associations linked with labels like “Made in Japan” or “Made in Switzerland.” An official involved in the talks expressed, “We aspire to achieve a similar recognition for India.” They pointed out that just as…
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received the highest national honors from 14 countries since 2014, acknowledging his leadership at various levels, as per the Center. Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, in response to a Rajya Sabha query, underscored Modi’s recognition, including the United Nations’ top environmental award in 2018. This series of prestigious awards reflects global acknowledgment of Modi’s statesmanship and leadership. Muraleedharan emphasized India’s elevated standing under Modi’s guidance, particularly in championing the Global South and addressing global challenges through dialogue and diplomacy. The minister highlighted specific accolades, such as the Order of the Distinguished Rule…
