UNION FEST 2025 - First Anniversary of the Statue of Union

The first-anniversary celebrations of the Statue of Union a majestic Hanuman statue and a symbol of strength, devotion, and unity were held at the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas, from August 7 to August 10, 2025. The four-day event, called UNION FEST 2025, was conducted under the divine guidance of His Holiness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swami ji. The festival celebrated the values that the Statue of Union represents service, harmony, mutual tolerance, and respect. These values are strongly reflected by the VT Seva organization. 

The Statue of Union was inaugurated on August 18, 2024, with the vision of becoming a beacon of unity where people from all walks of life could come together in reverence and community spirit. Union Fest 2025 carried that vision forward, gathering devotees, cultural enthusiasts, and leaders from the Greater Houston area in a celebration of shared values, tradition, and faith. 

Community and Dignitary Participation

Union Fest welcomed dignitaries, civic leaders, and community representatives from across Houston. Their presence underscored the event’s emphasis on building a bridge between core values and civic engagement. Public officials and organizational leaders reflected on the values that unite us, including compassion, righteousness, and responsibility. Esteemed speakers included Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor of the University of Houston System; entrepreneur and philanthropist Mr. Jugal Malani; Commissioner Andy Meyers; Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy; Houston City Council Member Ms. Tiffany Thomas; Sugar Land City Council Member Mr. Sanjay Singhal; and Consul Prashant Sona of the Consulate General of India, Houston. Mr. Sesh Bala from the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston also spoke, and Ms. Dottie Hall, District Director from the office of Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, graced the event. 

Volunteer Efforts

The success of UNION FEST 2025 was made possible by the tireless work of volunteers from VT Seva and the Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple, who served and ensured the needs of 5,000 attendees were met. Youth volunteers actively supported various teams, including devote management, water and prasadam distribution, audio and video coverage, an art competition, felicitation, and the front desk. Their selfless service was a powerful reminder that events of this magnitude rely on the dedication of community members who give their time and energy freely.