By: Dr Avi Verma

Honoring faith, culture, and global contributions

October 2025 marks a historic and joyous occasion for Hindus worldwide, as communities across the globe celebrate Hindu Heritage Month. In the United States, the Mayor of Chicago, along with governors of numerous states, has officially proclaimed October as Hindu Heritage Month, recognizing the invaluable cultural, spiritual, and historical contributions of Hindu Americans. This milestone reflects not only growing awareness of Hindu heritage in the U.S., but also the enduring influence of Hindu philosophy, art, and traditions across the world.

Hindu Heritage Month honors the profound legacy of Hinduism—the world’s oldest living religion—and celebrates the community’s integral role in building diverse, inclusive societies. October was chosen for its alignment with major Hindu festivals such as Navaratri, Durga Puja, and Diwali, as well as the birth month of Mahatma Gandhi, whose teachings of nonviolence, unity, and truth continue to inspire millions globally.

This month serves as a platform for celebrating Hindu values of faith, knowledge, compassion, and service. Across the United States, states including Michigan, Nevada, Ohio, Florida, Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Wisconsin have issued official proclamations. At the local level, cities, counties, and school boards—ranging from Dover, DE to Norwalk, CA—have also joined in issuing proclamations, further reinforcing the recognition of Hindu contributions to civic, cultural, and educational life.

Globally, Hindu Heritage Month is observed by communities across Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and other countries where large Hindu populations reside. Celebrations include temple festivals, cultural exhibitions, devotional music and dance performances, interfaith dialogues, spiritual discourses, and community service initiatives. In many cities worldwide, Hindu organizations use this occasion to host Diwali and Navaratri celebrations, organize charitable activities, and conduct educational programs to teach younger generations and the wider public about the richness of Hindu philosophy, arts, and history.

The month is also a reminder of the universal values of Hinduism—truth, harmony, self-discipline, and service—which continue to guide communities in building stronger bonds and contributing positively to society. Hindu Heritage Month provides an opportunity not only to reflect on the past and present achievements of Hindus but also to promote cross-cultural understanding, inclusivity, and interfaith cooperation.

As Chicago, numerous U.S. states, and communities worldwide observe Hindu Heritage Month in 2025, we congratulate the global Hindu community for their remarkable contributions in faith, education, arts, philanthropy, and service. May this observance inspire continued devotion, unity, and dedication to preserving and sharing the profound heritage of Hinduism with the world.