The Hindu University of America (HUA) Advancement Conclave held in Orlando, June 22-23, 2019 generated considerable enthusiasm from the participants, numbering about 60, who came from all over the USA and India and comprised both Hindu and non-Hindus. The participants, in the spirit of what Swami Vivekananda proclaimed, ‘Uttisthata Jagrata (arise and awake)’ argued in unison that it is the time that the HUA must rise to the occasion, and provide an inclusive platform for learning and wisdom to Hindus and non-Hindus all over the world.

In the early 1980s, a Hindu Sannyasin named Swami Tilak, while traveling all around the world and preaching the message of love and harmony, envisioned the creation of Hindu University of America. The purpose was to transmit the message of Hinduism, its rich culture, traditions, and wisdom, in an academic setting and language. However, Swami Tilak passed away prematurely in 1984. But his dream lived on. Established in 1993, Hindu University of America went through many ups and downs. Although it was the only university focusing on the various facets of Hinduism, it did not evoke the sustained passion and enthusiasm from the community, necessary for its growth. But it was evident at the conclave that, this recent history has not deterred the well-wishers of HUA. One idea that held the ground firmly was that HUA as an academic entity has to stay, and no obstacles or opposing forces, can wipe out the possibility of the university. Hindu culture, civilization, and traditions survived unbroken since antiquity despite numerous onslaughts. Similarly, the Hindu University of America will rise with all vigor and vibrancy despite all the setbacks in its recent history.

The remarkable character of Hinduism is that it does not proclaim exclusivism. It espouses the values of universal acceptance and respect as reiterated by Swami Vivekananda at the World Parliament of Religions more than a hundred years ago. Its founding philosophy is Vasudhiava Kutumbakam (the whole world is one family), calling the individuals across all divisions to cultivate this universal family spirit. In consonance with this universal vision, Hindu University of America welcomes all individuals to take part in its activities, and join its courses and programs.

At the conclave, many innovative and rigorous academic programs were elaborated, and it is likely that in the coming months, Hindu University of America will launch new Graduate-level programs leading to Masters and Ph.D. degrees, as well as continuing education, certificate, and study abroad programs to cater to the needs of the community. Six areas of study focusing on Hindu Studies Foundations, Texts and Traditions, Sanskrit Studies, Post-colonial Hindu Studies, History and Method, and Conflict and Peace Studies are being envisioned for launch during the re-invention phase over the next twelve months. The university hopes to set a standard for the study of Hindu Dharma by promoting dialog across disciplines, cultures and civilizations, while enabling self-discovery, conscious evolution and harmony.

The HUA Advancement Conclave was full of dynamism, and conclave participants were brimming with hope, that the community will come forward to support the university, with its whole heart and mind. As any rising institution, Hindu University of America cannot thrive without the support of the community which believe in its mission and vision. As I am participating in this program and watching the participants, both speakers, and non-speakers, I can see a positive energy all around; all participants could rise above their personal limitations, embrace the vision, and think and speak in a collective voice. And it is not a diminutive achievement.

The seed planted in the 1980s is showing signs of growing into a sapling. And with the new leadership and administration, the conclave participants hope that the Hindu University of America will rise above old lethargy and procrastination, and make a mark as a prestigious center for learning and wisdom.