Houston, Texas, USA: A warm display of devotion, culture, and service marked this year’s Senior Sewa Diwali celebration, where more than 200 seniors, volunteers, and families gathered at the Sri Sharadamba Temple in Richmond, Texas.
Organized by the Houston chapter of Sewa International on November 9, the program brought together elders and community members for a day designed to strengthen cultural connections and promote volunteerism. The celebration began with traditional prayers and aarti offered by the temple priest, followed by an insightful explanation from Prakash Ramachandran on the spiritual significance of the rituals performed.
The atmosphere was elevated by a graceful Ganesh Vandana dance presented by Uma Nagarseth, setting a vibrant tone for the cultural lineup. Houston Chapter president Pranav Loyalka welcomed the gathering and expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing encouragement of Sewa’s activities. During the event, Umang Mehta and Somir Paul were honored for their dedicated service in supporting Sewa’s family initiatives.
Student volunteers, dressed in yellow Sewa shirts, played a key role in managing the event—from registration and welcoming guests with tilak to assisting with various activities throughout the day.
Attendee Manju Gupta appreciated the seamless coordination, remarking that volunteers were attentive and consistently ensured guests’ comfort.
Cultural performances remained one of the most engaging parts of the program, with energetic bhangra and garba sessions led by Jasmeeta, Ruby, and Paresh Jasani, encouraging many seniors to join in. A keynote talk by Dasika, titled “Sewa, Retirement, and the Road to Happiness,” highlighted the importance of purposeful living and community service in later years.
Guests were served appetizers and lunch, and a food donation initiative further reflected the spirit of giving. “The happiness on the seniors’ faces was truly beyond words,” said Kavita Tewary, executive director of Sewa International’s Houston chapter.
The celebration wrapped up with high enthusiasm and active participation, reaffirming the Senior Sewa Diwali gathering as an enriching event promoting cultural unity, devotion, and the enduring value of sewa.
