HWN Conference Inspires, Invigorates and Strengthens Sense of Community

On Saturday, February 22, 2025, as a prelude to International Women’s Day, the Hindu Women’s Network of Atlanta (HWN) hosted its annual Hindu Women Conference at the Best Western in Roswell, Atlanta, Georgia.

HWN, an initiative of the VHPA, aligns with the values of Seva (service), Samskara (values), Sampark (network), and Prachar (awareness), fostering discussions on women’s empowerment and enrichment.

The entrance to the Best Western boardroom transformed into a vibrant archway, as saree-clad volunteers welcomed attendees beyond the hydraulic doors. Registrations were available online, with additional booths set up for walk-ins. The eight-hour session commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony led by VHPA President Veena Katdare, Vice President Kusum Khurana, and keynote speakers Shrimati Esther Dhanraj and Dr. Arati Joshi. This was followed by prayers led by Manju Tiwari, Smita Daftardar, Preeti Gupta, and Neetu Sharma.

Sabitha Venugopal, the facilitator of the conference, initiated the program with a welcome speech, house rules, and an overview of the schedule spanning from 9 AM to 4 PM. She then introduced the first session, “Women in Dharma,” featuring Shrimati Esther Dhanraj.
Esther Dhanraj, with an extensive background in Christian doctrines and a master’s degree in English literature, emphasized the significance of academic inquiry in religious understanding and practice. As the Director of Community Outreach at the Hindu University of America, she leverages her experience in mobilizing funds for Dharmic causes. Her inspiring journey from a conventional Hindu upbringing to a devout Christian and back to Sanatan Dharma resonated deeply with the audience.

The core of her autobiographical speech underscored the importance of critical inquiry in religious exploration. She highlighted that Dharma, the moral order of the universe, offers a framework for righteous living. Hindu parents, she emphasized, must not only immerse their children in Hindu traditions but also educate them in Shatrubodha (awareness of adversaries). The study of Hindu Dharma, she argued, extends beyond memorizing scriptures to embracing Purvapaksha—an intellectual approach that fosters debate (Tark) rather than blind belief. Esther Dhanraj leads a Gharwapsi movement in Bharat, advocating for raising children without the fear of hell, and directs Sadhana Marg, an initiative that engages in debates and provides spiritual counseling for adolescents.

The next session, moderated by Manjula Reddy, featured Dr. Arati Joshi, a practicing physician and certified yoga instructor. Dr. Joshi guided the audience through breathing exercises, including Pranayama Bhramari, Dwitiya, Tritiya, and Omkar Sadhana, which revitalized participants. She stressed the importance of maintaining core strength and balance through asanas such as Tadasana, Vrukshasana, Utkatasana, and Virbhadrasana. She emphasized that consistent yoga practice fosters self-awareness and long-term well-being.

The following session, “Money Matters,” was conducted by financial experts Dr. Girish Pore and Shradda Pore. They provided a comprehensive guide on financial responsibility, introducing the DIME framework: Debt, Income protection, Mortgage, and Education. The discussion focused on securing financial futures and ensuring a smooth transfer of assets to the next generation.

Before breaking for lunch, Smita Daftardar, a veteran Balvihar teacher, highlighted the growth of the VHPA organization. She traced its semicentennial journey, beginning with the founding of Balvihar Hindi School in 1969, followed by the establishment of the Hindu Student Council in 1990, the Coalition of Hindu Youth in 2010, and the Bhagavad Gita Sanatan Dharma Scholarship in 1993, later expanded into the Sharada Scholarship Program in 2022. Additional initiatives, including the Durga Project for abused women and the Hindu Women’s Network, further support the community. She also underscored the importance of April 20th as Hindu New Year for Hindus living in the U.S.

After lunch, the group participated in Yoga Nidra, guided by Dr. Arati Joshi, who led them into deep relaxation. The event’s smooth progression was expertly managed by timekeeper Neetu Sharma.

The next session, “Vastu Shastra,” was moderated by Preeti Gupta and presented by Dr. Deepika Gupta, an expert in Vastu Science and Astrology. Dr. Gupta, author of The Numeroscope: A Complete Guide to Numbers, introduced attendees to the concept of numerical vibrations and their impact. She elaborated on the significance of balancing the Panch Mahabhootas (five elements) in the right directions to optimize living and working spaces for better health and prosperity.

Sarika Jaswani, a contributor to Hindu Vishwa Magazine and moderator for the HWN Book Club, introduced attendees to the club’s mission. The club focuses on reading unconventional and original works that delve into history, philosophy, and beliefs. Books are discussed over multiple Zoom sessions, with authors occasionally engaging in dialogue. The club aims to foster literary discussions and build a community of women supporting women. Interested individuals can join via the provided link: HWN Book Club WhatsApp.

The Hindu Women Conference concluded on a high note, leaving attendees inspired and invigorated with newfound knowledge and a strengthened sense of community. HWN continues to be a beacon for women seeking empowerment, education, and spiritual growth.

The program, wrapped up with vote of thanks by the President-Veena Katdare, prayers, and triumphant volunteers huddling for group pictures and selfies along with the dignitaries present. Each participant went home with a hint of epiphany and a load of empowerment.