Dear Editor,

Your April article, The Great Bollywood Bias, powerfully exposes Bollywood’s selective criticism. Bollywood unfairly labels films celebrating national pride as propaganda, while others escape scrutiny, leading to a perception of bias and inconsistency in criticism. Audiences are clearly choosing differently, proving the shift is organic. Consistency in criticism is essential. Cinema must reflect all voices, not just approved narratives.

Sincerely,
Rajesh Patel,
Atlanta, Georgia

Dear Editor,

This article, Success, Stress, and Silent Disease, serves as a crucial reminder for our community. As a physician, I see these “silent diseases” daily—especially heart disease and diabetes among seemingly healthy patients. We must prioritize preventive care and break mental health stigma. Awareness must translate into action immediately.

Sincerely,
Dr. Revathi Rao,
Houston, Texas

Dear Editor,

While thought-provoking, your article, The Great Bollywood Bias, oversimplifies a complex debate. Not all criticism of patriotic films is biased; some concerns relate to storytelling quality and nuance, such as the depth of character development and the representation of diverse viewpoints within the narrative. Replacing one narrative bias with another isn’t progress. True credibility comes from balanced, thoughtful cinema that welcomes multiple perspectives.

Regards,
Anjali Mehta,
Fremont, California

Dear Editor,

Your article, Success, Stress, and Silent Disease highlights a critical yet often ignored reality in our community. As a cardiologist, I see younger patients facing preventable heart disease daily. The focus on early screening, lifestyle changes, and mental health awareness is timely. This message can truly save lives if acted upon.

Sincerely,
Dr. Rakesh Iyer,
Chicago, Illinois

Dear Editor,

Your article, The Great Bollywood Bias, courageously highlights a truth many hesitate to say aloud. Bollywood’s double standards have long shaped narratives unfairly. It is encouraging to see audiences reclaiming their voice and supporting stories rooted in identity and pride. Honest, balanced criticism—not selective outrage—will strengthen cinema.

 Sincerely,

Vikram Desai, Chicago, Illinois

Dear Editor,

The article, “The Rise and Rise of Indian Americans,” by Raj Shah in the January issue, beautifully captured our journey from newcomers to contributors. My parents arrived with little money but endless faith in education. Today their children are professionals serving this country proudly. Success did not come overnight—it came through sacrifice and discipline. Thank you for honoring the immigrant generation’s quiet courage.

Sincerely,
Amit Desai
Edison, New Jersey

Hello,

I appreciated Raj Shah’s thoughtful piece on Indian-American growth. In my classroom, I see second-generation students balancing heritage and identity with confidence. They celebrate Diwali and debate American history with equal pride. This is the real success — belonging without losing roots. Your article reminded us that cultural confidence is progress.

Warm regards,
Pooja Iyer
Teacher
Dallas, Texas

Dear Editorial Staff,

I appreciated the January article “The Art of Bouncing Back with Greater Success.” My first startup failed, and I felt ashamed discussing it. Later I analyzed my mistakes and joined another company with maturity and confidence. Your message helps our community see failure as learning, not stigma.

Sincerely,
Rajiv Menon
San Jose, California

Dear Desh-Videsh,

Your article helped my teenage daughter after she failed an exam and felt she disappointed us. We discussed effort instead of perfection. She improved and regained confidence. Indian American families must teach resilience, not only achievement. Thank you for a meaningful and timely reminder.

Warm regards,
Dr. Neha Patel
Physician and Parent
Chicago, Illinois

Dear Desh-Videsh Staff,

As an oncologist, I appreciated Dr. Anjali Menon’s balanced article. Many patients believe natural therapies can replace chemotherapy. The article correctly stresses integration, not substitution. Supportive practices may improve comfort, but delaying proven treatment risks survival. Clear communication between patients and physicians is essential. Thank you for presenting responsible guidance.

 Sincerely,

Dr. Vivek Mehta
New York, New York

Dear Editor,

I commend Dr. Menon for clarifying integrative versus alternative care. Many families trust Ayurveda but fear modern treatment. Combining yoga, diet, and supervised herbs with oncology can support recovery without compromising safety. The strong warning about medical consultation is valuable for our community.

Warm regards,
Dr. Kavita Shah
Fremont, California

Rekindling Joyful Dharma

Raj Shah’s article beautifully highlights the importance of joyful engagement in Hindu parenting. His point about rasa—emotional connection—truly resonated with me. Inspired by it, my family celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi with storytelling and art, making it fun and memorable for our kids. Dharma, when experienced with joy, becomes meaningful. Rather than enforcing rituals, we must let children feel their heritage. Thank you for this timely reminder that parenting is not just about tradition, but about creating lifelong emotional bonds with our culture.

Warm regards,

Suman Iyer
Plano, Texas

Balancing Two Worlds

Raj Shah’s piece spoke directly to our daily experience—raising children who straddle two cultures. My son loves tabla and Marvel heroes, and we try to honor both identities. The metaphor of giving “two wings” was perfect. Parenting in America isn’t about choosing one culture over another—it’s about grounding kids in dharma while giving them the confidence to soar. This article is a guidepost for Hindu families navigating modern life. Thank you for this thoughtful and inspiring message.

Sincerely,
Aniket Patel
Edison, New Jersey

Making Children Stakeholders

Raj Shah’s article deeply moved me. The idea of letting children take ownership of their culture is powerful. Last Navratri, my daughter choreographed her own Garba and shared its meaning with friends—it was magical. She felt proud, not pressured. Hindu parenting must be joyful, not dutiful. Mr. Shah beautifully reminds us that when children love their heritage, they grow into confident cultural ambassadors. Thank you for this inspiring vision of parenting with purpose.

Sincerely,
Meera Rangan Fremont, California

Sister Shivani ji’s message—raising children to be more, not having more—truly resonates. In our home, we now focus on building inner strength over luxury. Our kids help with chores, limit screen time, and join us in daily meditation. Like the Gurukul model, this fosters resilience and humility. In a world obsessed with comfort, we must raise grounded, adaptable children with spiritual depth. Thank you for sharing such timely wisdom—it’s a wake-up call for modern Hindu parenting.

Sincerely,

Kavita Deshpande Cary, North Carolina

Empowering First-Gen Students

As a first-generation college student, I found Dr. Walker’s article incredibly insightful. The emphasis on university career centers is crucial—many of us don’t know where to begin, and these centers offer much-needed guidance. I recently secured a summer internship in campus IT services using their help. Building a targeted resume and practicing mock interviews gave me a real confidence boost. This article should be shared across freshman orientation programs—it’s a great roadmap for success.

Sincerely,

Rohan Mehta
Cupertino, California

A Parent’s Perspective

As a mother of a college sophomore, I appreciated Dr. Walker’s thoughtful advice. In our Indian community, internships sometimes take a backseat to academics, but real-world experience is essential. My daughter recently accepted a remote marketing internship thanks to networking at her university. This article offers practical, step-by-step strategies every student should follow. I especially valued the reminder to leverage informal networks—sometimes uncles, aunts, or temple friends are the best sources for hidden opportunities.

Warm regards,

Sunita Krishnan
Alpharetta, Georgia

A Timeless Reminder

Dr. Agarwal’s article is a beautiful reminder that food is sacred medicine. As someone raised on Ayurvedic home cooking, I’ve rediscovered the value of warm ghee, seasonal veggies, and mindful meals. Her explanation of Agni and Upavasa brought clarity to practices I grew up with but never fully understood. In a world chasing fad diets, Ayurveda offers a sustainable, soulful path. Thank you for reminding us that healing begins in the kitchen.

Warm regards,

Neha Kulkarni
Bellevue, Washington

Ayurveda in Modern Life

Dr. Agarwal’s article powerfully bridges ancient wisdom and modern wellness. Dr. Agarwal’s insights on mindful eating and seasonal living resonate deeply in our tech-driven, fast-food culture. I’ve started practicing Shatapavali after meals and introduced Kitchari fasting into my routine—it’s transformative. Ayurveda’s personalized, dosha-based approach is a treasure we must preserve and pass on. “Eat simply, eat mindfully”—this should be our family mantra.

Sincerely,

Pradeep Nair
Naperville, Illinois

Rediscovering Our Soul’s Inheritance

Dear Editor,

Reading your latest article on the Brahma Kumaris’ teachings on the seven primordial qualities of the soul was like getting a letter from my inner self. In a society that judges success by material milestones, this essay was a strong reminder of our everlasting spiritual identity.

The portion about Purity really touched me. Often misinterpreted, purity is not repression but elevation—where thoughts, intentions, and deeds correspond with our original soul-conscious condition. The Brahma Kumaris’ idea of viewing one another as souls, beyond labels, is revolutionary in modern India, where caste, religion, and gender name distinctions are growing.

Your publication of something that speaks to the spirit as well as the mind is much appreciated. May more such realities be given to assist our comeback to who we really are.

Sincerely,
Arvind Patel

Love Without Conditions

Dear Editor,

Your piece stressing the Brahma Kumaris’ interpretation of Love as the thread linking all souls really moved me. Being a mother, I sometimes worry about my kids maturing in a society that tells them to gauge love by likes, connections, and circumstances. This piece brought me back to the fact that real love starts when we see ourselves—and others—as souls.

From attachment to spiritual love, I have seen in my life how relationships are mended. We begin to accept rather than anticipate. Your eloquent expression of the subject is much appreciated.

The Brahma Kumaris’ teachings are practical tools for everyday living, not abstract theory. Our homes and classrooms could use more of this knowledge.

Warm regards,
Meera Sharma
New Jersey, USA

Inner Powers for a Chaotic World

Dear Editor,

I like the motivating piece on the original qualities of the soul. The description of the Eight Powers really caught my eye. The notion that we may cultivate inner abilities like tolerance, discernment, and disengagement seems both vital and urgent in an era of unending reaction—on roadways, on social media, even within families.

I have started playing with the Power to Pack Up to release regrets and fruitless talks. It is freeing. Your piece suggested that these abilities are part of our inner software, not far off aspirations, ready to be turned on.

Kindly keep this series going. These lessons provide the spiritual energy required in the hectic, often stressful life of today.

In gratitude,
Rajan Iyer
Freemont, California

The Joy of Being a Soul

Dear Editor,

Your paper’s Joy chapter really struck me. Being a doctor, I see many people whose looks are weary even when their bodies are well. Your reminder that pleasure comes from within—not from accomplishment but from harmony with our own self—was deep.

I now want to integrate in my everyday life the Brahma Kumaris’ focus on simplicity, soul awareness, and God recollection as the source of happiness. A few minutes of Raja Yoga meditation provides clarity and peace unmatched by any treatment.

This piece healed as well as educated. Your guidance within has helped me to see the way.

With appreciation,
Dr. Kavita Desai

Chicago, ILL

A Quiet Force for Good
 

Dr. Shea’s article on the Brahma Kumaris was deeply refreshing. As someone who has experienced their retreats, I can say her words ring true—this is a community rooted in service, silence, and spiritual clarity. The global reach, women leadership, and volunteer-driven model offer a rare example of peaceful transformation. Thank you for spotlighting this often-misunderstood movement.

Anjali Patel, Orlando, FL

A Skeptic Finds Respect

As a lifelong skeptic of spiritual groups, I found Dr. Shea’s article honest and eye-opening. Her explanation of the Brahma Kumaris’ funding, structure, and purpose was both balanced and inspiring. Their “yoga power” and quiet generosity show that peace can still be a powerful force. A timely and much-needed perspective.
 

David R. Morris, Charlotte, NC

A Model for Modern Spirituality
What a beautiful and clarifying piece by Dr. Shea. In an age of noisy spirituality, the Brahma Kumaris stand out for their humility, discipline, and consistency. Their ability to inspire service without any demand is truly remarkable. This article answered questions I never knew I had. More such coverage, please!
 

Meena Iyer, Edison, NJ

Meditation with Meaning

Dr. Shea’s profile of the Brahma Kumaris reminded me that inner peace isn’t just personal—it can become a public service. I especially admired the explanation of their global work powered by volunteers and “yoga energy.” This is meditation with real-world impact, and the world needs more of it.

James Crawford, San Diego, CA

A Divine and Logistical Marvel

Dear Editor,

Thank you for your comprehensive coverage of the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in the February 2025 issue of Desh-Videsh. It is truly awe-inspiring to witness how ancient spirituality meets modern logistics on such a grand scale. The seamless integration of tradition with cutting-edge safety measures and infrastructure upgrades is a testament to India’s capability to honor its cultural roots while embracing progress.

Sincerely,
Vikram Mehta, Atlanta, GA

Honoring the Kalpvasis

Dear Editor,

I was particularly moved by the mention of over 2 million Kalpvasis who are dedicating an entire month to prayer, discipline, and spiritual reflection. In today’s fast-paced world, such devotion is not only rare but deeply inspiring. Their commitment reminds us all of the power of faith and the depth of Sanatan Dharma.

Warm regards,
Sujata Rao, Edison, NJ

Cultural Pride on a Global Stage

Dear Editor,

Your article beautifully highlights how the Maha Kumbh Mela in the recent issue of Desh-Videsh is not just a religious event but a cultural phenomenon recognized worldwide. The presence of international pilgrims, UNESCO recognition, and planned world records speak volumes about India’s soft power. It fills me with immense pride to see our heritage celebrated on such a global stage.

With appreciation,
Rajiv Patel, Orlando, FL

Re: “Parenting Do’s and Don’ts” by Dr. Meenakshi Iyer

Dear Editor,

Dr. Meenakshi Iyer’s article in the February issue of Desh-Videsh offers a thoughtful, balanced approach to modern parenting. I especially appreciated the emphasis on emotional intelligence, unconditional love, and not projecting our dreams onto our children. Her practical tips serve as a valuable reminder that parenting is more about presence than perfection.

Sincerely,

Anil Arora
Chicago, ILL

Dear Editor,

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your recent editorial in February Issue. It was not just a travelogue—it was a heartfelt journey through India’s soul. Your vivid descriptions of South India, the awe-inspiring Statue of Unity, and the spiritual depth of Mount Abu brought back my own memories of similar visits.
The sections on Akshaya Patra and the solar lamp initiative were especially touching. It’s inspiring to see how meaningful travel can blend exploration with seva. Thank you for reminding us that our roots and responsibilities go hand-in-hand, and that our bucket lists can be filled with both wonders and wisdom.

Warm regards,

Nila Rao,
Houston, TX

Respected Editor,

Please scan the QR code with a barcode-scanning app on your Apple device. To download the mobile app to Apple devices, visit: https://apple.co/39oMqRu.
For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit www.deshvidesh.com/Nov2024 or download our Mobile App. Thank you to Desh-Videsh Magazine and Sister Shivani for sharing such a profound perspective on Diwali in an article, “Diwali: Lighting the Diya Within.” This enlightening
message brings renewed purpose to our celebrations, inspiring us to embody these teachings in our daily lives. I have never come across such a unique and insightful perspective on Diwali before. I even shared it with my children, who found it both fascinating and thought-provoking. Thank you for this beautiful reminder to celebrate with inner awareness and purpose.
Anjali Iyer

To the Editor,
I regret missing Sister Shivani’s transformative lecture at Nova Southeastern University, as I was out of town. Her guidance has been invaluable to me, especially during challenging periods in my life. Reading Dr. Kathleen A. Shea’s article, “It’s Time…. Healing the Heart, Releasing the Hurt,” reminded me of Sister Shivani’s profound insights. The article echoed her wisdom, especially her teaching that “Time doesn’t heal; it just covers things up as the wound festers.” Sister Shivani’s presence has always felt like a healing force, helping me and many others find inner peace and clarity in our lives.
Sincerely,
Dipankar Biswas

To the Editor,
I was deeply gratified to attend Sister Shivani’s lecture at Nova Southeastern University. Before this event, I knew little about Sister Shivani and her organization,
The Brahma Kumaris. Dr. Kathleen A. Shea’s article, “It’s Time…Healing the Heart, Releasing the Hurt,” beautifully encapsulates Sister Shivani’s message, particularly her insight that “time doesn’t heal; it just covers things up.” I am grateful that the article also provided background on The Brahma Kumaris and their mission. I encourage you to consider including regular pieces on The Brahma Kumaris’ teachings to reach more readers seeking spiritual growth.
Thank you.
Aarav Sharma

Dear Editor,

I loved the article “Gandhi, the Philosopher” by Raj Shah. It shows Gandhi as more than just a political leader; he was also a deep thinker who valued kindness and fairness. I admire how Gandhi believed in “sarvodaya,” or helping everyone, not just himself. It reminds me to care about others, not just my own needs. Gandhi’s idea of non-violence as a way of life is so inspiring, especially in today’s world. I feel proud that Gandhi Jayanti celebrates a man who changed India through peace and ethics. Thank you for this insightful piece!

Sincerely,

Dhara Jhaveri
12 year old a Grateful Reader

Thank you, Desh Videsh magazine, for shedding light on this unique perspective of Mahatma Gandhi as a philosopher. Often remembered primarily as a political leader, Gandhi’s contributions to ethics-led philosophy merit equal recognition. Raj Shah’s insightful piece unveils Gandhi’s approach to ethics, which, akin to Buddha and Socrates, prioritized personal and societal transformation over abstract theorizing. By redefining “God is Truth” to “Truth is God,” Gandhi emphasized that ethical living is foundational. His dedication to non-violence, equality, and the common good, as well as his critique of materialism, continues to offer guidance in today’s ethically complex world.

Debanjan Banerjee

Respected Editor,

My name is Ria Kapoor, and I am 12 years old. I recently read Yashvi Shah’s beautiful poetry from Anjar, Kutch, Gujarat, in your magazine. Her words deeply inspired me, and I have written my own poem as a result. I’d love to share it with you readers. Could you please guide me on how and where I can submit my poem for consideration? Thank you for providing such inspiring content.

Sincerely,
Ria Kapoor

Dear Ria,

I’m glad you enjoyed the poem and that it inspired you to write your own. For the last 31 years, our goal at Desh-Videsh Media Group has been to inspire and educate the young generation about India, Indian culture, and values. Please send your poem to editor@deshvidesh.com.

Raj Shah, Managing Editor

Dear Editor,

The article on India’s World Cup victory on June 29, 2024, perfectly captures the emotions of millions of cricket fans. India’s triumph after 13 years, especially against a formidable South African side, was a testament to their resilience and skill. Virat Kohli’s stellar performance, despite initial setbacks, and the incredible catch by Suryakumar Yadav in the final moments were truly legendary. This victory, etched in history, not only brought immense joy to Indian fans worldwide but also showcased the unifying power of cricket. Kudos to the team for an unforgettable journey and a well-deserved win!

Tushar Shukla, a cricket fan in Florida

Dear Editor,

Reading “India’s Dominant March to the T20 World Cup Final: A Match-by-Match Look” felt like I was reliving every thrilling moment live. The detailed recount of each game, from the opening victory against Ireland to the stunning semi-final win over England, brilliantly captured the essence of India’s journey. The descriptions of pivotal performances by stars like Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah brought the excitement of the matches vividly to life. This article not only celebrated India’s cricketing prowess but also rekindled every Indian cricket fan’s pride and joy.

Bala Subramaniam

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my profound gratitude for the article “Emotional Detox” by Brahma Kumari Shivani in your recent issue. This piece resonated deeply with me, articulating my inner struggles and offering a transformative perspective. The practical steps outlined have already begun to shift my mindset, allowing me to foster a more positive and serene mental space.

I am eager to learn more from Brahma Kumari Shivani. Could you provide additional resources or information on where to access more of her teachings? Thank you for this enlightening article.

Warm regards,
Tanvi Basu

Dear Tanvi,

I am so sorry that you’re going through hardship in your life. At some point in our lives, we all go through hardship. I’m uncertain whether you and some of our readers are aware that I was diagnosed with cancer a few years ago. However, with the proper medication and guidance from Dr. Rajiv Choksi and Dr. Manoharan, as well as a positive outlook on life, I have been cancer-free for the past 10 years and counting.

By the way, I’m a big fan of Brahma Kumari Shivani Ji. And luckily for all of us, she will visit South Florida on September 21, 2024. Please refer to page number 53 for the full details.

Raj Shah, Managing Editor

Thank you to Desh-Videsh Magazine and Sister Shivani for sharing such a profound perspective on Diwali in an article, “Diwali: Lighting the Diya Within.” This enlightening message brings renewed purpose to our celebrations, inspiring us to embody these teachings in our daily lives.

I have never come across such a unique and insightful perspective on Diwali before. I even shared it with my children, who found it both fascinating and thought-provoking. Thank you for this beautiful reminder to celebrate with inner awareness and purpose.

Meenakshi Iyer

To the Editor,

I regret missing Sister Shivani’s transformative lecture at Nova Southeastern University, as I was out of town. Her guidance has been invaluable to me, especially during challenging periods in my life. Reading Dr. Kathleen A. Shea’s article, “It’s Time…. Healing the Heart, Releasing the Hurt,” reminded me of Sister Shivani’s profound insights. The article echoed her wisdom, especially her teaching that “Time doesn’t heal; it just covers things up as the wound festers.” Sister Shivani’s presence has always felt like a healing force, helping me and many others find inner peace and clarity in our lives.

Sincerely,
Dipankar Biswas

To the Editor,

I was deeply gratified to attend Sister Shivani’s lecture at Nova Southeastern University. Before this event, I knew little about Sister Shivani and her organization, The Brahma Kumaris. Dr. Kathleen A. Shea’s article, “It’s Time…Healing the Heart, Releasing the Hurt,” beautifully encapsulates Sister Shivani’s message, particularly her insight that “time doesn’t heal; it just covers things up.” I am grateful that the article also provided background on The Brahma Kumaris and their mission. I encourage you to consider including regular pieces on The Brahma Kumaris’ teachings to reach more readers seeking spiritual growth.

Thank you.
Aarav Sharma

To the Editor,

I loved the article “Gandhi, the Philosopher” by Raj Shah. It shows Gandhi as more than just a political leader; he was also a deep thinker who valued kindness and fairness. I admire how Gandhi believed in “sarvodaya,” or helping everyone, not just himself. It reminds me to care about others, not just my own needs. Gandhi’s idea of non-violence as a way of life is so inspiring, especially in today’s world. I feel proud that Gandhi Jayanti celebrates a man who changed India through peace and ethics. Thank you for this insightful piece!

Sincerely,
Dhara Jhaveri
12 year old a Grateful Reader

Thank you, Desh Videsh magazine, for shedding light on this unique perspective of Mahatma Gandhi as a philosopher. Often remembered primarily as a political leader, Gandhi’s contributions to ethics-led philosophy merit equal recognition. Raj Shah’s insightful piece unveils Gandhi’s approach to ethics, which, akin to Buddha and Socrates, prioritized personal and societal transformation over abstract theorizing. By redefining “God is Truth” to “Truth is God,” Gandhi emphasized that ethical living is foundational. His dedication to non-violence, equality, and the common good, as well as his critique of materialism, continues to offer guidance in today’s ethically complex world.

Debanjan Banerjee

Kudos to Desh- Videsh for publishing its first Atlanta edition in October 2022. The cover page conveys the message of happiness and spirituality that majority Indian Americans derive from celebration of Diwali- Festival of Lights. The magazine has covered a vast range of topics for the Atlanta readers ranging from Diwali celebration editorial, entertainment, Atlanta current events, travel, immigration, Indian culinary, discussion on current topics, youth, and children related events. It is for the first time in Atlanta’s history that a magazine without negativity, impartiality, and biased reporting is getting published. The editors have followed strict editorial norms of fact checking before publishing any news or articles.

Jay Reddy

Congratulations to the entire team of Desh Videsh Media Group for coming out with Atlanta Edition. For a long time we were waiting for a quality magazine with rich and unbiased content.

Suman Dasgupta

Just received the inaugural issue of Desh Videsh Atlanta Edition. Very nice job, I especially loved the section of “ what Diwali means to you” where young children are expressing their feelings. My 10 year old girl got inspired from those poems written by kids and started writing herself. This is definitely one way for children to know about our festivals and culture. Thank you Desh-Videsh.

Bhavini Patel

I just picked up a copy of Desh Videsh Atlanta Edition. I had never seen this magazine before. After reading it, I realized that you just launched your atlanta Edition. Congratulations! The quality of the printing and paper is much better than what I saw before.  But more importantly I was impressed with the content. This is really a family magazine. It has something for everybody. Gandhi Article for my Grandfather, Must read Book section and NRI news for me and poems on Diwali for my children. Well done.

Mohini Shinde