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CGI Houston launches oral history podcast on Indian Americans

In the inaugural episode, retired Col. Bhalla shared his journey from Punjab to becoming a respected Indian American community leader in Texas.

 Sunanda Vashisht and Col. (Retd.) R.P.S. Bhalla Sunanda Vashisht and Col. (Retd.) R.P.S. Bhalla / CGI Houston via X

The Consulate General of India in Houston announced a new podcast series and released the first episode of the podcast on June 2. The series is aimed at documenting the life of the Indian American diaspora.

Titled "Texas Diaries: Oral History of Indian Diaspora," the podcast series is dedicated to preserving the lived experiences and inspiring journeys of the Indian diaspora in the Southern United States, according to the consulate.

Announcing the podcast, Consul General of India in Houston D.C. Manjunath said in a video announcement, "Dear friends, namaskar and greetings from the Consulate of India in Houston. It is my pleasure to introduce to all of you a new podcast series, Texas Diaries: Oral History of Indian Diaspora."

The first episode featured Col. (Retd.) R.P.S. Bhalla, a distinguished nonagenarian, decorated Indian Army veteran, pioneering professional in the United States, philanthropist and community leader.

Talking about the episode, CGI Houston noted on X that Col. Bhalla engaged in a "heartfelt conversation with Sunanda Vashisht, a well-known political commentator and active diaspora member."

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In the inaugural episode, Col. Bhalla shared his journey from Punjab to becoming a respected Indian American community leader in Texas.



He reflected on his 20-year service in the Indian Army, his studies in the United States and Australia, and his eventual move to America in the 1970s, where he built a successful second career in the corporate sector.

He also highlighted the values of faith, service and community engagement, emphasizing how the freedoms and opportunities offered by both India and the United States shaped his life and legacy.

Urging people to tune in to the podcast, available on CGI Houston's YouTube channel, the consulate said, "CGI Houston invites Indian diaspora and friends of India to watch this powerful story of courage, resilience, and legacy."

It continues, "Let these stories inspire us and strengthen the cultural bridge between India and its global family."

Discover more at New India Abroad.

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