Hindu University Of America Dialog In LA Sparks Reflections On Roots And Purpose
Photo: Book Release of Unbaptized (From left: Esther Dhanraj is joined by HUA Chairman Dr. Jashvant Patel, Swami Ishwarananda, Swami Beyondananda, and Kalyan Viswanathan to release her new book “Unbaptized: Why I left Christianity and Returned to My Roots.”)
India-West Staff Reporter
CERRITOS, CA – Hindu University of America’s ‘Samvada Los Angeles’ held on January 10 turned out, for the more than 150 participants from across Southern California, to be a compelling morning of reflection, learning, and meaningful connection.
“What unfolded was far more than a formal program; it was a shared experience. One that reminded everyone in the room of the importance of knowing who we are, where we come from, and what we carry forward,” one attendee said at the event held at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, here.
The program opened with Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, Consul General of India in Los Angeles, who spoke passionately about the responsibility of Hindus and Indians to understand their real history and take pride in their civilizational legacy. He emphasized that when a community knows its roots, it stands taller, speaks clearer, and builds stronger futures.
Swami Ishwarananda, Senior Monk at Chinmaya Mission and head of the center in Los Angeles, followed with a compelling message on why Hindu studies are essential today. He explained how learning about our philosophical and cultural foundations is not simply academic, but fundamental to preserving identity, strengthening values, and guiding the next generation.
With warmth and thoughtful humor, Swami BeyondAnanda (Steve Bhaermer) offered reflections on spirituality that extend beyond religious boundaries, focusing on human connection, compassion, and the deeper needs of a world searching for meaning and balance.
A moving moment of the morning came from Esther Dhanraj, author of ‘Unbaptized.’ She shared her personal journey of being converted to Christianity at the age of 12 in India, becoming a devoted believer, and later pursuing advanced studies in Christian theology at Divinity School in the US. Through her years of study, she began to distinguish between faith and organized religion, which led her to question her path. Eventually, that journey brought her back to Hinduism, a return she described as a homecoming of both intellect and spirit. The room listened in complete silence as she spoke, deeply touched by her honesty and courage.
Throughout the morning, several attendees and supporters spoke about why they chose to support Hindu University of America: hope for an institution that preserves knowledge, builds leaders, and carries the wisdom of Sanatana Dharma forward with integrity and purpose.
The event was anchored by the vision and guidance of Kalyan Vishwanathan, President of Hindu University of America, whose dedication to academic excellence and civilizational scholarship continues to shape HUA’s growing impact.
Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman, Dean of the California College of Ayurveda, reinforced the educational depth of the gathering, highlighting the importance of integrative knowledge systems rooted in India’s traditional sciences.
Dr. Jashvant Patel, Chairman of the Board of Hindu University of America and a respected spine and pain management physician, was also present, lending his support and leadership to the event.
Ankur Patel, Director of Community Outreach, brought together families, leaders, and supporters from across Southern California, ensuring the event reflected HUA’s core mission of engagement, service, and shared purpose.
As the program concluded, the room carried a quiet sense of collective resolve. People left not just informed, but inspired, grounded, and connected, with a renewed understanding of who they are and what they stand for.
