Houston, TX (October 13, 2024): Sewa International hosted a virtual conference titled "Education Summit 2024" on October 5, 2024, drawing over 160 participants. The summit sought to address immigrant and refugee students' challenges in U.S. schools and bridge the education gap by supporting marginalized communities.

Sewa runs ASPIRE – a comprehensive program that provides Math, English, Arts, and enrichment activities for students in grades K-6. Initiated in 2013 in partnership with AmeriCorps, ASPIRE has expanded to multiple locations. Anjana Bhadri, Sewa's Regional Project Manager, spoke about the program and its features.

Rakhi Israni (top left) moderated a panel discussion during the education summit. Panelists included Julie Sugarman (top right), Associate Director for K-12 Education Research at MPI's National Center, and Dr. Piyush Agarwal (bottom), an educationist and a United Nations consultant

Rakhi Israni, Sewa's Vice President of Government Relations, moderated a panel with Julie Sugarman, Associate Director for K-12 Education Research at MPI's National Center, Dr. Piyush Agarwal, Educationist, and Carole Juarez, Program Manager, AmeriCorps, discussing the challenges immigrant students face. Julie Sugarman noted that 25 percent of U.S. school-age children are from immigrant families, with lower graduation rates that improve over time. She stressed the need for equal access to education, highlighting disparities between states.

Dr. Piyush Agarwal urged integrating immigrant students into the education system and shared lessons from the 1998 Cuban influx, where strategies like educator training and bilingual materials proved effective.

Carole Juarez discussed the Aspire Program, where AmeriCorps members help students with limited English proficiency, addressing academic and emotional needs.

Sudha Prabhunandan (top left), the moderator, led a panel featuring Brittany (top right), an 8th-grade student, Krishnan Balasubramaniam (bottom left), a Sewa donor, and Victor Fisher (bottom right), a teacher, during the Education Summit

The second panel discussion opened with a yoga session led by Sridevi, a yoga instructor who has offered transformative yoga programs in universities and corporations.

Sudha Prabanandan, the moderator, introduced panelists Brittany, an 8th-grade student, Krishnan Balasubramaniam, a Sewa donor, and Victor Fisher, a teacher.

Brittany shared how the Aspire program helped her improve academically, raising her grades from C's and D's to A's and B's, highlighting its positive impact on her immigrant family. Victor Fisher discussed his experience working with at-risk children, noting how Aspire's individualized attention boosts student engagement and test scores. Krishnan Balasubramaniam, a dedicated Sewa donor, emphasized the importance of donor engagement, financial transparency, and Sewa's measurable success in addressing educational inequality.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Anurag Mairal from Stanford University emphasized the critical role of education and innovation, noting that over a quarter of U.S. children lack adequate education, jeopardizing their futures. He highlighted the link between social determinants of health and education in underserved communities. Prof. Mairal praised the diverse stakeholders, including policymakers and educators, stressing the need for relationship-based learning environments. He observed that the challenges stem not from students' abilities but from their access to resources and sense of belonging.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Atlanta, GA (October 1, 2024): TiE Atlanta Foundation, a global nonprofit dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, and Sewa International’s Atlanta chapter, launched a collaborative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) platform at a dinner gala on September 19, 2024. The platform brings businesses and local communities together for impactful social and environmental change.

Through this partnership, TiE Atlanta Foundation and Sewa International aim to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs and support underserved populations through free tutoring, healthcare services, and food drives. The CSR platform offers companies the opportunity to participate in meaningful community service while promoting sustainable business practices.

Madhav Durbha (left), President of Sewa Atlanta, and Sanket Patel,
President of TiE Atlanta, inaugurated the SewaTiE Gala by lighting the
ceremonial lamps

The initiative was unveiled under the “Ripples of Change: Empowering Entrepreneurs, Transforming Communities” theme reflecting the core values of the partnership between TiE Atlanta Foundation and Sewa International.

Leaders from both organizations emphasized their shared vision of growth and service. Sanket Patel, President of TiE Atlanta Foundation, said, “This partnership is not just about business success; it’s about giving back and creating lasting positive impacts on the communities that need it most. Our combined efforts will provide the mentorship and resources to spark innovation and uplift those in need.”

Leaders from the TiE Atlanta Foundation and Sewa Atlanta, with local community
members, came together at the SewaTiE Gala in Atlanta to promote sustainable
business practices and foster collaboration for social impact

Madhav Durbha, President of Sewa International Atlanta, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Our collaboration with TiE Atlanta reflects our mutual commitment to service and entrepreneurship. We are excited to see how businesses can leverage the CSR platform to not only grow but also give back to the community in a sustainable way.”

Participating businesses were introduced to various opportunities to engage in community service, including Sewa’s free tutoring programs, healthcare initiatives, food drives, and mentorship to students in underserved communities. These efforts are part of an ongoing mission to uplift underserved populations in the Metro Atlanta area. Several businesses have already committed to joining the initiative, underscoring the importance of socially responsible business practices in today’s world.

Participants not only endorsed empowerment and social impact but are actively contributing to initiatives to improve education access, nurture entrepreneurship, and support sustainable community development.

The event was made possible through the combined efforts of Dr. Paul Lopez, Sid Mookerji, Sanket P, Amyn Sadruddin, Srikanth Gundavarapu, Sebastian Salinas, and others whose involvement was instrumental. Jagruti S and Raj Radhakrishnan served as co-chairs, guiding this collaborative event.

About TiE Atlanta Foundation
TiE Atlanta is part of a global nonprofit network of entrepreneurs dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship through mentoring, networking, education, funding, and incubation. TiE Atlanta’s mission is to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs while giving back to the community.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Milpitas, CA (September 20, 2024): Sewa International, a Hindu faith-based charity, in collaboration with AmeriCorps, hosted a commemoration for the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance in Milpitas, CA. Milpitas Mayor Carmen Montano, Vice Mayor Evelyn Chua, American veteran Veeranna Chinnappa, environmentalist Dr. Sailesh Rao, Milpitas Planning Commissioner Dipak Awasthi, Assembly Member Alex Lee, and Councilmember Hon Lien attended the event.

Other notable attendees included Ravi Chopra, an Indian Army Veteran, Dr. Seetha, an American Army Veteran, Frank Morales, Assistant Chief of Police in Milpitas, and Murali Srinivasan, Vice Mayor of Sunnyvale. Francis Collin from CADRE, accompanied her 102-year-old mother, a former Red Cross volunteer, and Al, a 105-year-old American Army Veteran graced the occasion.

From left- Guru Prasad, Coordinator of Sewa Bay Area; Dipak Awasthi,
Milpitas Planning Commissioner; Hon Lien, Milpitas Councilmember;
Carmen Montano, Milpitas Mayor; Dr. Anurag Mairal, Sewa Bay Area President;
Evelyn Chua, Milpitas Vice Mayor; Frank Morales, Assistant Chief of Police,
Milpitas; William Lam, City Council Candidate, and Praveen Dhir, Coordinator of Sewa South Bay

The event began with a solemn parade, celebrating the memory of those who lost their lives in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, tragedy. Environmentalist Dr. Sailesh Rao shared how his narrow escape from being in New York on 9/11 inspired his dedication to environmental advocacy and commitment to veganism. Veterans shared personal and inspiring stories, while public officials highlighted the enduring significance of unity, resilience, and service to the community. Mayor Carmen Montano sent a letter of commendation, while Santa Clara Mayor Lisa Gillmor provided a certificate from her office.

Prominent guests of honor, including the Mayor, Vice Mayor, Assembly Member,
Council Member, Indian and American Army veterans, the Assistant Chief of Police
of Milpitas, and community members, attended the solemn ceremony in Milpitas, CA

Dr. Anurag Mairal, Sewa Bay Area President, said, "Our participation in the September 11 National Day of Service reflects our mission to promote selfless service and strengthen communities. We invite everyone to volunteer, attend educational sessions, or reflect to honor 9/11 and inspire future generations with a legacy of unity and service."

The event ended with a symbolic indoor planting, where participants planted wildflower seeds featuring the Sewa and AmeriCorps logos, representing growth, hope, and community unity.

Sewa International: www.sewausa.org

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Chesterfield, NJ (September 13, 2024): A new 9/11 memorial was unveiled in Chesterfield, NJ, on September 11, 2024. The memorial, an initiative of Sewa International’s South Jersey Chapter in partnership with Chesterfield Township, honors the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on US soil.

The solemn ceremony, attended by over 350 people including local officials, state senators, assembly members, and first responders, featured the unveiling of three key monuments symbolizing the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and Flight 93. A dedicatory plaque at the memorial’s entrance offered an overview of its significance.

State Senator Latham Tiver (far left), Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (center),
and Sewa International USA board member Sridhar Talanki (far right)
unveiled the monument symbolizing the Twin Towers

Completed in just 23 days, the memorial was funded by generous donors and sponsors. It represents a collective effort from veterans, first responders, the township committee and staff, the environmental commission, the historical society, the interfaith group, Sewa volunteers, supporters, local businesses, and corporations.

Lt. Col. Eric J. Tolska, a key figure in the 9/11 rescue efforts, delivered a moving keynote address, reflecting on the courage and challenges of that day. State Senator Latham Tiver emphasized the need to embody values of care and pride daily, while Assemblywoman Andrea Katz urged everyone to reconnect and be kind. Mayor Matthew Litt expressed gratitude for the memorial, noting its role as a space for reflection and unity.

Over 350 people, including a state senator, an assemblywoman, local officials,
first responders, community members, and Sewa representatives,
attended the solemn ceremony in Chesterfield, NJ

Sandesh Kamath, Sewa’s Chapter Coordinator, said, "This memorial stands as a testament to the power of unity—showing that when we come together, work together, and support one another, nothing is beyond our reach."

Sridhar Talanki, a Sewa International USA board member, highlighted the impact of collective action, saying, "Together, we can build a future where every citizen has the opportunity to reach their full potential."

The event underscored the resilience and unity of the American spirit, with Sewa International South Jersey Chapter expressing continued commitment to community service and historical preservation.

Police Officer Chief Davidson (second from left), Matthew Litt (third from left),
and Lt. Col. Eric J. Tolska (fourth from left) stand alongside
police officers at the Pentagon monument

In collaboration with AmeriCorps, Sewa International has organized hundreds of volunteer opportunities across the country, contributing to the national effort to honor the legacy of 9/11 through positive action and community building.

For more information, please contact:

Sandesh Kamath
Chapter Coordinator
Sewa International South Jersey
Phone: 856-375-7585
Email: southjersey@sewausa.org
Website: https://sewausa.org/911Memorial

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Chesterfield, NJ – September 05, 2024: Sewa International, a Hindu faith-based charity, is collaborating with AmeriCorps for the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Across 17 Sewa USA chapters, the organization has led 49 environmental and community service initiatives, honoring the unity and resilience inspired by 9/11.

In the weeks leading up to September 11, 2024, Sewa chapters have been involved in various environmental activities. These initiatives are aimed at fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship:

• Park clean-ups: Volunteers restore parks by removing trash and invasive plants for safer, cleaner spaces.
• Tree planting: Chapters plant trees and mulch public spaces to boost urban greenery and fight climate change.
• Recycle drives: Community-wide recycling events promote sustainable waste management.
• Educational sessions: Sewa hosts environmental awareness, sustainability, and conservation events.
• Green Acts & Events: Events and exhibitions showcase green living and practical steps to reduce environmental impact.

Volunteers and supporters gathered at the 9/11 memorial groundbreaking ceremony in Chesterfield, NJ

During the week of September 11, all 17 chapters will host events to honor 9/11 victims and celebrate America's strength and unity in times of crisis.

9/11 Memorial in Chesterfield, NJ

Sewa International is leading the construction of a 9/11 Memorial in Chesterfield, NJ. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on August 3, 2024. The event was attended by Chesterfield Mayor Matthew Lit, Bordentown Mayor Eugene Fuji, Deputy Mayor Denise Cortes Dale, Township Committee Members Srikant Dhopte and Rebecca Hughes, Administrator George Jackson, and representatives from the Chesterfield Fire and Police Departments, Korean war Veteran 91-year-old Clifford Hays, Leaders from different faith and community leaders blessed the occasion along with Sewa International's Vice President for Programs and Serve Program Director.

Sewa’s Vice President for Organization, Syam Kosigi, with war veteran
Clifford Hays honoring our nation's heroes at the
9/11 memorial groundbreaking ceremony in Chesterfield, NJ

During the ceremony, Mayor Matthew Lit praised Sewa's dedication and impact on the Chesterfield community, noting the efforts of its volunteers in bringing the 9/11 memorial to life.

The 9/11 Memorial in Chesterfield will stand as a permanent reminder of the challenges the country has faced and the strength of the American spirit. It will serve as a place for reflection, education, and teaching future generations about the importance of unity in times of crisis.

A National Effort to Remember and Serve

Sewa’s involvement in the September 11 National Day of Service reflects its mission to promote selfless service and strengthen communities. The 49 nationwide events highlight the impact of collective action and the importance of giving back.

For more information about Sewa International and its ongoing 9/11 projects, please visit https://sewadayofservice.org/.

Links: Event Calendar of 9/11 events: https://sewadayofservice.org/events

9/11 events’ highlights in pictures: https://sewadayofservice.org/Gallery-911-events-highlights

Sewa International: http://sewausa.org/

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Houston, TX (August 15, 2024): Sewa International has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to support Bangladeshi Hindus and other religious minorities under brutal attack in Bangladesh since August 5, 2024. In addition, Sewa International has released $10,000 from its emergency fund to send needed supplies, including food kits and other essential resources, immediately.

Since the recent fall of the democratically elected Sheikh Hasina government on August 5, extremists have been viciously targeting the religious minority communities, mainly focused on the indigenous Hindu population. Numerous Hindu temples have been burned down and homes destroyed. There have been multiple daily reports about women and young girls being kidnapped, raped, and molested.

Picture courtesy: Organiser

"The need for humanitarian aid on the ground for the victims is growing. It has been reported that some hospitals are refusing to treat the victims. Police are refusing to protect the families. The world needs to stand together for these helpless individuals. We ask our officials at the state and federal levels to condemn the violence targeting Bangladeshi minorities, and we urge the State Department to demand Bangladesh enforce law and order,” said Arun Kankani, President of Sewa International.

Picture courtesy: The Economic Times

"Since 1946, the Bangladeshi Hindu community has experienced violence and unimaginable atrocities many, many times. And this time is no exception. Each time what makes survival quite difficult is the lack of support and justice: The local shopkeepers won’t sell food to our community, and the local hospitals refuse to treat our wounded. Who will stand for us? Who will help us?" a local Bangladeshi said as he explained the ground situation in Bangladesh. Sewa has withheld the person's name due to safety concerns.

Link to Sewa’s fundraiser for Bangladeshi victims: https://sewausa.org/SupportVictimsHindusUnderAttackinBangladesh

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Houston, TX (August 5, 2024): Sewa International held its Fourth National Youth Convention on July 27 featuring a four-hour video conference with twelve sessions. The event saw participation from over 750 Leadership, Education, and Development (LEAD) students across 29 US chapters, garnering more than 1,500 Facebook views. LEAD, Sewa's youth engagement program for 9th to 12th graders, fosters leadership and organizational skills through community service, with participants completing at least 100 hours of service annually.

New Jersey core team member Pradeep Byram (first from left)
and guest speaker Anil Bansal (far right) with Sewa LEAD volunteers
at the Fourth National Youth Convention

The convention began with an inaugural speech by Anil Bansal, founder of Indus American Bank and a notable community leader. Bansal emphasized the importance of community service, setting the tone for the event. In the second session, keynote speaker Ami Ganatra, an accomplished author and business strategist, addressed the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, urging mindfulness in lifestyle choices and environmental conservation. She reminded them that protecting the environment is ultimately self-beneficial, as nature will always find a way to correct itself.

Keynote speaker Ami Ganatra addressed the participants at the
Fourth National Youth Convention

During the third session, nine-panel discussions focused on climate change and sustainability. Sandesh Shinde, a sustainability advocate, IT professional, and founder of Green Cell in Atlanta focused his talk on how cultural roots drive sustainable development. Attendees were encouraged to take simple actions like reducing electricity use and supporting eco-friendly initiatives. A social media campaign was proposed to promote sustainable habits.

Anchors Arushi (top left) and Ananya (top right) participated in a
session on climate change and sustainability led by Sandesh Shinde (below)

The fourth and final session showcased the 9/11 Sewa Day of Service Project, marking Sewa’s twentieth anniversary. This initiative, in collaboration with AmeriCorps and 9/11 organizations, involved over 3,100 volunteers, 2,200 trained individuals, and 7,600 service hours across 75 cities. The project focused on environmental initiatives and community engagement, with more than one hundred events. The session concluded with a resolution on "Environmental Protection – Everyone’s Responsibility," which was supported by 98 percent of the 500 LEAD delegates.

Advocate and author Suhag Shukla spoke about incorporating
dharma into our daily lives

Chief Guest, Suhag Shukla, co-founder and executive director of the Hindu American Foundation, reflected on the significant contributions of 1,500 volunteers who dedicated over 150,000 hours of sewa (selfless service). Shukla highlighted the positive impacts on volunteers, including fulfillment, physical and mental health benefits, and spiritual growth. She encouraged the continued practice of sewa beyond initial commitments, integrating it into daily life as part of one's dharma (duty). She introduced the DPS (Dharma, Punya, Sukham – duty, beneficence, happiness) framework, guiding participants to navigate life's challenges and pursue happiness while serving others.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Houston, TX (May 23, 2024): Sewa International honored some prominent donors at separate events in Los Angeles, CA, and Detroit, MI. Sewa felicitated Mrs. Uma Agarwal, Mr. Avadhesh Agarwal, Mrs. Sheela Paranjpe, and Mr. Suresh Paranjpe for their significant contributions to its large healthcare projects in India.

The Paranjpe family contributed over a million dollars toNavjat Shishu Drishti Suraksha Karyakram (New Born Child Vision Protection Program) in India. The Agarwal family donated over a million dollars to Swami Vivekananda Health Mission (SVHM) to build a hospital in Vrindavan, India during the Covid-19 pandemic. Philanthropists Bramara Arya and Krishna Reddy hosted the Los Angeles event on Sunday, May 19, at their residence. Mrs. Hema Rachmale and Mr. Avinash Rachmale hosted the Michigan event at their Bloomfield Hills residence.

Shyam Parande (Left to right) Mrs. Uma Agarwal, Mr. Avadhesh Agarwal and
Saumitra Gokhale in a felicitation event at Mr. Krishna Reddy's
residence in Southern California

Pivotal Role

Sewa International's Global Coordinator and a member of Sewa USA's Board of Advisors, Shyam Parande, appreciated the Agarwal family's generous contribution to building the hospital in Vrindavan. Another member of the Board of Advisors, Saumitra Gokhale, summarized Sewa's humanitarian work and emphasized the importance of philanthropy and Hindu contributions to the world. Sandeep Khadkekar, Vice President for Marketing, provided an overview of Sewa's work, highlighting the Agarwal family's pivotal role in building the hospital in Vrindavan.

Dignitaries such as Vinod Ambastha, the President of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Venkata Kalavakolanu, Coordinator of Sewa Los Angeles Chapter, and Amar Nadig, gathered to honor Avadesh Agarwal's contributions to humanity.

At the event in Michigan, Sewa felicitated the Paranjpe family. After receiving the honor,  the Paranjpe couple thanked Sewa International, Foot Soldiers for Health (FSFH), and Sushena Health Foundation for their efforts to make a positive impact. They also thanked the Sewa Detroit team for their hard work and encouraged the younger generation to continue their philanthropic work.

Mr. and Mrs. Paranjpe have made a significant impact in addressing eye health issues in India, mainly focusing on Retinopathy of Prematurity (RoP) and low vision. Their donation of one million dollars will improve access to essential eye care services, reduce preventable blindness, and enhance overall eye health outcomes for underserved communities.

Mr. Suresh Paranjpe and Mrs. Sheela Paranjpe (sitting) amidst Sewa volunteers in a
felicitation event at Avinash Rachmale's residence in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Noble Cause

In a video message sent to the Detroit event, Sewa USA's President, Arun Kankani, said that with their generous donation and kind words, Mr. and Mrs. Paranjpe supported a noble cause and inspired others to follow in their footsteps, and that their appreciation and encouragement had strengthened the Sewa team and its partners, reinforcing its commitment to serve humanity with compassion and dedication.

Dignitaries, including Dr. Kamal Gupta, Dr. Vadari, Dr. Mali, Dr. Bhogaonkar, Jay Parajnpe, Ashutosh Kale, Sewa Detroit Chapter Coordinator, Anand Pappuri, Nithin Chouthai, and Santhosh Kumar assembled to honor the Paranjpe family's philanthropic work. Dr. Bharathi Kraleti and Dr. Santosh Kraleti provided an overview of the eye care project and its immense impact.

"Sewa" in Sanskrit means selfless service. In 2021, President Joe Biden recognized Sewa International's work during the pandemic. Sewa serves in many countries, supporting communities and people in need.

About Sewa International
Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c) (3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Schaumburg, IL – May 14, 2024: Sewa International USA, the Hindu faith-based non-profit organization, held its 18th National Conference at IndiaHub in Schaumburg, IL, on May 4 and 5. The conference brought together over 140 volunteers, including Sewa's directors, advisory board members, executive team leaders, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and the Consul General of India in Chicago, Somnath Ghosh, attended the event. Krishnamoorthi highlighted the significant contributions of the Indian American community, noting its representation in various fields, including Congress. Referring to the recent census findings, he said the Indian American community is the fastest-growing, best-educated, and most prosperous segment of America. He expressed his support for Sewa International and assured the gathering that he would be a part of all its endeavors.

Over 140 people, including national executives, volunteers, and supporters from various US chapters attended Sewa International’s 18th National Conference, at IndiaHub in Schaumburg, IL

Bhagavad Gita -- The Life Guide

Gauranga Das Prabhu, Director of Govardhan Eco Village in Maharashtra and popular spiritual and motivational speaker, and Jay Shetty, author, life coach, and advisor to global celebrities, participated in a "fireside chat" at the event. Gauranga Das said the Bhagavad Gita, the Hindu spiritual treatise, is the best guide to a fulfilling life and mental well-being. 

Reflecting on his spiritual journey, he commended Sewa for its active engagement in giving back to society. Gauranga Das, citing the Gita, said that charity is a duty without expectations. He emphasized the importance of performing duties according to time, place, and circumstance. Drawing a comparison between Lord Krishna's description of sewa (selfless service) and Sewa volunteers' work, he said that success lies in living for others. 

Jay Shetty said that absorption in any spiritual practice leads to intensity in action and sensitivity in dealings. He praised Sewa for embodying this principle, highlighting Sewa's intensity in action and commitment, and sensitivity in helping and reaching out to those in need. He commended Sewa for making selfless service the focus of human life, especially in a world distracted by various other pursuits.

   

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorty, motivational speaker Gauranga Das Prabhu, and author and life coach Jay Shetty (left to right) addressed the gathering

Indian Diaspora in 180 Countries

In his opening remarks, Sridhar Talanki, a member of Sewa's Board of Directors, emphasized the vision of a harmonious, happy world experiencing oneness through sewa, noting that Sewa International has set a benchmark for excellence through its service activities.

Shyam Parande, a member of the Board of Advisors, highlighted the presence of Indians in 180 countries, noting that despite centuries of oppression, Hindu heritage continues to flow like the river Ganga. 

Arun Kankani, President of Sewa International, released Sewa's annual report and announced the new team, including the board of directors, teams, and advisors. He also released a booklet highlighting the milestones of Sewa's 20-year journey since its founding in 2004. 

Venkat Santanaraman, Vice President, Finance, highlighted the remarkable 22% increase in revenues in 2023. Contributions from various sources supported this growth, including 67% from individuals, 14% from family funds, and 10% from matching donations.

Sandeep Khadkekar, Vice President of Marketing, and Swadesh Katoch, Vice President of Disaster Management, led sessions on marketing strategies and impactful initiatives, such as the Bhutanese Refugee Empowerment (BRE) and Sewa's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shrinarayan Chandak Honored

Sewa honored Shrinarayan Chandak, a member of Sewa's Advisory Board and leader of various dharmic causes. Chandak and his wife Asha have lived in the US for the past 55 years, contributing significantly to the Indian American community. Sewa's Advisory Board members Saumitra Gokhale and Shyam Parande commended Shrinarayan Chandak's dedication and organizational skills that had strengthened the community's fabric in the US.

About Sewa International

Sewa International (www.sewausa.org) is a 501 (c)(3) Hindu faith-based charitable nonprofit that works in the areas of disaster recovery, education, and development. Sewa has 43 Chapters across the USA and serves regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.

Press Release National Conference 2024

Atlanta, GA (March 2024): The Atlanta Chapter of Sewa International recently hosted its 17th annual Holi festival, the vibrant and colorful Hindu celebration of spring, love, and colors. The event, held at Cumming Fairgrounds on March 23, attracted an impressive turnout of nearly 18,000 people from the Atlanta Metropolitan Area and beyond, making it one of the largest Holi celebrations in the United States.

The Atlanta Holi celebration featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional and Bollywood dances and live music. Attendees also enjoyed a wide array of traditional Indian vegetarian street food.

Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick, Consul General of India in Atlanta Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, Georgia State Representative Todd Jones, and Forsyth County Commissioner Alfred John graced the occasion with their presence. Sen. Jon Osoff sent specially recorded greetings for the event attendees. Atlanta’s own business leaders -- Subhash Patel of Natson Hotels Group and Samir Bhatia, CEO of Smartcare Urgent Care -- conveyed their Holi wishes to the community.

"We are thrilled to have hosted such a successful and joyous Holi celebration," said Dr. Madhav Durbha, President of Sewa International Atlanta. "Holi is a time for spreading happiness and building community spirit, and we are delighted to see so many people come together to celebrate this colorful festival with us."

The event drew the interest of various corporations. Employees of Starbucks were there to serve free coffee to Sewa volunteers early in the morning. Tesla Motors brought some of their cars to display and also to allow attendees to test drive.

Dignitaries with the Sewa Team members

Sewa Atlanta’s tradition of celebrating Holi started in 2006 in Alpharetta’s Wills Park. At the time there were other Holi celebrations around the city, but none in the proximity of Alpharetta which was starting to become the center of gravity for the Indian diaspora. Bringing the festival closer to where the people lived began to attract attention. Several volunteers who were at the 2006 event continue to serve as part of Sewa. Over the years Holi started attracting non-Indians as well turning it into a universal celebration regardless of race, religion, or ethnic backgrounds. Besides being a fun experience, a key motivation behind the event is to build awareness of the community impact activities Sewa is undertaking in Atlanta.

A core team of volunteers worked tirelessly for nearly three months leading to the event. About 250 volunteers were present at the event to tend to the needs of the attendees. The Holi celebration would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, and attendees. The Cumming Police Department provided security and DJ Shaan rocked the campground with music to which the performers and attendees danced while showering each other in colors. The staff of Cumming Fairgrounds ensured that the event was effectively managed.

Tesla Motors joined the fun -- all colored up!

Natson Hotels Group and Paramount Software Solutions served as signature sponsors. Sanatan Mandir and Shakti Mandir sponsored the food for thousands of attendees. Amruth Ayurveda, AssureGuru, CGIngredients, Cherians, Chugh, E-Ring, Inc., Garuda Vega, Georgia Banking Company, Gupta Real Estate, Indiaco, PNC Bank, Premium Realty Group LLC, Pyramid Consulting, Royal Basmati Rice, Twinkle Pediatrics LLC were the additional sponsors.

In the true spirit of the Hindu adage that “the whole world is one family,” Sewa International Atlanta organizes various charitable initiatives, including food drives, primary education initiatives, and free healthcare clinics in collaboration with Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Heritage (GAPI) to support local communities in need.

Sewa International has also adapted several sustainability principles in minimizing waste associated with the event. Greencell Atlanta partnered with Sewa on this front. The City of Cumming provided recycling bags and containers.

Sharing some love and gratitude with our Police Officers

Starbucks staff greeted our volunteers with coffee early in the morning

About Sewa International
Sewa International is a Hindu faith-based, humanitarian, nonprofit service organization registered under Internal Revenue Code 501 (c) (3). Founded in 2003, Sewa International is part of a larger movement that started in India in 1989 and is active in twenty countries. Sewa serves humanity irrespective of race, color, religion, gender or nationality. Sewa specializes in disaster relief and rehabilitation. Our development programs focus on family services; child, tribal and refugee welfare; women empowerment; health; and education. For more information about Sewa International, please visit www.sewausa.org