The Hindu American Foundation captivated a packed audience at its 14th Annual Houston Fundraising Gala on Saturday, April 13th. Sundar Iyer shared his harrowing experience of false accusations of caste-based discrimination by government agencies, sparking conversation with HAF’s Executive Director Suhag Shukla. The event, held at the GSH Event Center, shed light on the infamous Cisco caste discrimination case, where exculpatory evidence was suppressed by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD). This prompted HAF to file a federal lawsuit against California. Local philanthropist Ramesh Bhutada pledged $1 million over four years to HAF during the gala.
The evening commenced with gala emcees Dr. Subodh Bhuchar and Vikram Sheshadri introducing local elected officials and a lamp lighting ceremony. HAF Board Members Rishi Bhutada and Vikram Sheshadri updated attendees on HAF’s advocacy and educational efforts, focusing on empowering local Hindu communities through programs like Dharma Ambassador and Dharma Advocates. A conversation between Suhag Shukla and Sundar Iyer highlighted the implications of the California case on Hindu Texans and emphasized the need for community vigilance.
The gala featured Bollywood dance performances by Kalakriti Performing Arts, with founder Kusum Sharma receiving HAF’s Advancement of the Dharmic Arts and Humanities Award. Ramesh Bhutada’s generous commitment to HAF, along with plans for launching a Legal Justice Center, were announced, eliciting a positive response from attendees who donated nearly $450,000. The evening concluded with a lavish dinner provided by Nalin’s Bombay Brasserie.
HAF looks forward to its next annual gala in Houston, continuing its educational and advocacy efforts in Texas. The foundation expressed gratitude to local partners and the HAF Houston chapter team for their support. To learn more about HAF, visit hinduamerican.org and follow @hinduamerican on social media.
