Unbaptized:Why I Left Christianity & Returned to My Roots Webinar Esther Dhanraj - Sat, Nov 22, 2025

Unbaptized:Why I Left Christianity & Returned to My Roots Webinar with Esther Dhanraj
Saturday, November 22, 2025
12 Noon EST
Dive into an insightful discussion exploring the remarkable journey of the Hindu University of America (HUA), a pioneering institution rapidly evolving into a beacon for Hindu education, culture, and professional development in North America. This video traces HUA's compelling history, from its foundational vision in the mid-1980s and periods of dormancy, to its current phase of substantial, purpose-driven growth over the last five to six years. Learn how dedicated leadership (like Kangji) and visionary mentors (like Swami Dhanand Saraswati) have guided HUA past early challenges—including limited recognition and accreditation hurdles—to its standing today.

Academic Excellence & Professional Relevance: Operating strategically in the U.S. higher education landscape, HUA has developed unique, accredited-level programs that connect ancient knowledge with contemporary professional life. Key areas of focus include:

Ayurveda & Wellness: HUA now encompasses the California College of Ayurveda, which has successfully graduated over 3,000 students. These programs provide professional certificates that open career paths in health counseling, Ayurveda therapy, and related wellness fields.

Hindu & Shastra Studies: Expanding curriculum in performing arts, Shastra (scriptural) studies, education, and comprehensive teacher certification programs.

Creating a Professional Ecosystem: A central theme of this discussion is HUA’s critical mission to establish meaningful career pathways for graduates. Drawing inspiration from the established career ecosystems of Christian theological seminaries, HUA is actively exploring how to empower students to transition into professional roles. This includes preparation for chaplaincy, spiritual counseling, certified yoga/Ayurveda instruction, management, mediation, and educational positions that meet the growing needs of the Hindu community in America. HUA aims to link deep academic preparation directly to marketable, professional skills.

The Strategic Vision: Harvard & Princeton as Inspiration: The university’s leadership is at a pivotal crossroads, actively debating the next stage of its evolution. The choice is between: 1) first pursuing accreditation as a dedicated theological school, or 2) broadening its scope to become a secular, mainstream university with a Hindu seminary component at its core. Hear the vision for achieving a transformation similar to that of institutions like Harvard and Princeton, which evolved from religious colleges into globally respected universities over centuries, ensuring HUA's sustainability and professional relevance for the future.

Community Support is Critical: Realizing this ambitious vision requires strategic community backing. We emphasize the vital need for increased support—both financial and in expertise—especially from successful first-generation Hindu professionals in America. Initiatives like the “Friends of HUA” are designed to engage the community in building the necessary infrastructure, expanding academic offerings, and providing crucial scholarships and career mentorship.

Upcoming Engagement Opportunities: HUA is hosting several deep, experiential learning retreats this December:

Key Takeaways: HUA's recent substantial growth; immense potential for professional careers in Hindu-focused fields; the strategic debate on secular vs. theological accreditation; and the crucial role of community support.

Shastra Immersion Retreat (December 11–14)

Genius of Hindu Astronomy Retreat with Dr. Rajam (December 11–14)

Be part of this journey by enrolling in courses, supporting initiatives, and engaging in the programs offered by HUA.

All HUA Courses:
https://www.hua.edu/academics/courses/

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  / studyathua  

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  / hindu-university-of-america  

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