In recognition of her courage, service, and advocacy, Deepa Karthik has been conferred the Guardian of Dharma Award by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). The award celebrates her dedication to upholding Hindu values, advancing community engagement, and strengthening cultural identity in the diaspora.
CoHNA honored several distinguished dignitaries and community leaders who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Dharmic values.
The honorees were keynote speaker Rajiv Malhotra, celebrated author and founder of the Infinity Foundation, whose intellectual work has shaped contemporary discourse on Hindu thought globally; Pt. Satish Sharma, a respected Hindu leader from UK; Dr. TK Nakagaki, an interfaith leader known for his bridge-building efforts and Sahana Singh, author and commentator.
In addition, elected officials such as NY Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar, New Jersey Assemblyman Roy Freiman and Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie were also recognized for their support and engagement with the Hindu American community.
This collective recognition highlighted CoHNA’s commitment to honoring both community advocates and public officials who play an important role in fostering understanding, dialogue, and representation
The Significance of the Award
The Guardian of Dharma Award honors individuals who embody the principles of harmony, duty, and moral integrity - and who actively champion these ideals in public life. For many in the Hindu community, the award signifies not only personal achievement but also a collective affirmation that faith, tradition, and modern civic engagement can coexist and enrich one another.
CoHNA’s award underscores the importance of leaders who can bridge cultural heritage with contemporary challenges, those who speak for their communities, defend their rights, and inspire younger generations to remain rooted in spiritual values even as they navigate modern society
Reflections
We contacted Deepa Karthik, who expressed her gratitude to the organization and to all those who have supported her Dharmic mission. She acknowledged that her achievements were made possible by the collective efforts of volunteers, community leaders, allies in interfaith and civic circles, and the broader Hindu diaspora.
She emphasized that this honor is not an endpoint but a continuation of her journey. She called upon younger Hindus to view service as an expression of faith and to play an active role in shaping the Hindu presence globally.
Hitesh Trivedi, Board Member of CoHNA, described the award as “a recognition of Deepa Karthik’s commitment to courage and truth in the face of adversity.” He added that such honors empower voices that articulate, defend, and enrich Hindu thought in modern society.
A Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity
The most meaningful honors are those that both affirm past achievements and inspire future commitments. In bestowing the Guardian of Dharma Award, CoHNA has elevated leaders whose work bridges tradition and modernity, faith and public service.
Every honoree’s journey stands as a symbol of how Hindu Americans can live coherently as dharmic citizens - contributing to society, defending their faith, and nurturing the next generation in the spirit of service.
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