As the Diwali season approaches, the familiar glow of diyas and the joyous celebration of Bandi Chhor remind us of the values that unite us as a community. Diwali is more than just a festival of lights; it’s a celebration of hope, reflection, and renewal. It’s a time when our hearts open to the joy of giving and receiving, and our homes radiate the warmth of togetherness. At Being Indian, we are proud to celebrate these timeless traditions that bring families and communities closer, whether in India or across the globe.
2024 has been a year of continued growth and exploration for Being Indian. Following the success of our Vaisakhi edition, we are humbled by the support and feedback from our readers. Our goal remains to create content that inspires, informs, and sparks meaningful dialogue. This Diwali edition is a testament to that mission. We have worked tirelessly to curate stories and features that celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship, giving, cultural vibrancy, and the ever-evolving narratives of the Indian diaspora.
On our cover, we feature the exceptional Dr. Raman Srivastava, who highlights the power of giving back to the community and embracing public service beyond the office. With a career spanning eight government departments, Dr. Srivastava shares valuable lessons on perseverance, vision, and staying true to your values. It’s about standing up for something, preparing for life’s unpredictability, and pursuing your goals with integrity. But that’s not all! This issue is filled with inspiring stories, from philanthropy to leadership, showcasing the power of impact and dedication. Alongside Dr. Srivastava’s story, this issue is brimming with inspiration from notable figures who are shaping their fields in profound ways. Manu Sharma, featured in the article It Takes a Village to Raise a Leader, shares his inspiring journey to becoming Director of Corporate Services & Social Innovation at the Ottawa Community Foundation. His story highlights a deep commitment to empowering others, building community leadership, fostering growth, and driving meaningful change in communities. Dr. Radha Jetty, in her feature story Cultivating Compassion: The Dual Legacy of Medicine and Cultural Heritage, opens up about balancing her career in medicine with her deep commitment to cultural heritage, demonstrating how these intertwined passions drive her work. Dr. Raja Sandhu, in the article Beyond the Chair: The Dentist Who Built a 26-Location Legacy and Eyes Global Real Estate, recounts his incredible journey from dentistry to real estate, offering insights into his ambitions for building a truly global footprint.
As we reflect on the values of Diwali and Bandi Chhor, let us be reminded of the deeper meaning these festivals hold—the victory of light over darkness and the importance of service and freedom. May your Diwali and Bandi Chhor be filled with joy, peace, and prosperity, and may the coming year bring you new beginnings and endless possibilities, as we work together to build a brighter, more unified future. We thank you for your continued support and invite you to join us in this celebration of culture, perseverance, and hope.
With warm regards & best wishes,
Inderpreet Singh, Publisher
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