It is with a heavy heart that I begin this editorial by acknowledging the tragic terrorist attack that occurred last week in Pahalgam, Kashmir, India. Innocent (Hindu) lives were lost, and the grief is felt deeply across Indian Diaspora communities worldwide. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this painful time.
Equally worrisome is the way in which Dutch media have reported on this attack. The lack of context and balanced perspectives once again highlights the urgent need for more informed and responsible journalism regarding Hindus and the impact of the news on the community in the Netherlands. That is why DesiYUP is committed to organizing a second edition of Hindoes in de Media later this year. Soon a date will be shared.
I believe in the power of fair, well-rounded reporting—news that reflects multiple perspectives and offers a more complete, respectful understanding of events that impact our community. I’m not sure what to make of the systematic neglect of the Hindu perspective in Dutch media outlets. Having an educational background in Journalism and a reporter myself I often contemplate on this issue. Is it truly a lack of knowledge or is the skewed framing driven by certain powerful ideologies, what are we as a community missing, i.e. the blind spot? I don’t want to sound like a conspiracy theorist. But something I cannot help but wonder why the interest level in Hindu related topics is so extremely low, or often being ridiculed and why are certain narratives being dominated or even pushed Like it’s a propaganda? It will take an enormous amount of group effort to challenge these dominant narratives and make them more nuanced.
At DesiYUP, we see it as our mission to contribute to this broader understanding, not through political rhetoric, but through the enduring power of arts and culture. By promoting India’s rich soft power—its music, literature, traditions, and storytelling—we give audiences in the Netherlands a chance to get to know our community authentically and meaningfully. Our work fosters familiarity, appreciation, and connection, which is more necessary than ever.
This year, we are putting even greater effort into our vision with the 3rd edition of Eindeloos India Festival, Endless India — a month-long celebration filled with music, art, and cultural activities. We are proud to announce our first event on November 1st at de Doelen, Rotterdam, where we will host two stellar concerts featuring leading vocalists: Vidya Vox (USA) and Ankita Joshi (India). Through these performances, we proudly contribute to Rotterdam’s Year of the Woman theme, showcasing the strength and talent of extraordinary women in music and how they unite communities with their voices.
On a personal note, it was a true honor to be nominated earlier this year for the title Rotterdam Woman of the Year. This acknowledgment means a great deal—not just for me, but as a recognition of the work DesiYUP has been passionately carrying out for over a decade: amplifying the voice and visibility of the Sarnami-Hindustani and Indian diaspora in the Netherlands.
I promise you: this year will be filled with events and activities designed to celebrate and uplift our heritage. We invite you to join us on this journey—by attending our programs, by sharing our events within your networks, and by standing with us as we build bridges through culture, dialogue, and music. If you want to team up for Eindeloos India be it as a sponsor or a media partner you can contact us: info@desiyup.com
Let’s make sure our stories are heard and celebrated.
Together, we are DesiYUP!
With Love,
Mahesvari