“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam “THE WORLD IS ONE FAMILY”
Sangeetha Kowsik, founder of Ihsan Ishan Design, is a rare Hindu Chaplain and Indian American Creative Director.
A trained Hindu priestess, founder of the NYU Hindu Center, an Islamic/Arabic calligrapher,
she offers a unique perspective, presenting Hinduism in a positive light to the Western world
while dispelling misconceptions, highlighting its profound spiritual and cultural significance.
An accomplished speaker and educator, Sangeetha has delivered impactful lectures at
prestigious museums, universities, corporations, and institutions worldwide.
Her expertise spans interfaith dialogues,
diversity, designing with cultural sensitivity to
ensure every faith and tradition is represented with accuracy and respect.
Sangeetha’s insights promote unity, respect, and thoughtful dialogue across cultures and faiths.
TOPICS
Religion & Food - Hindu, Christian, Muslim Perspectives
Addressing Racism, Colorism, Misconceptions due to Colonization
Hindus & Christians Common Ground
Feminism in Islam, Hinduism, Judaism
Black Lives Matter - A Hindu perspective dismantling colorism
Spiritual Significance of Colors within Hinduism
Queer & Indigenous Deities and Worship within Hinduism
Truth about “Caste” System
Dismantling Misconceptions of Hinduism
Hindu Chaplain of NYU / Founder of NYU Hindu Center on how she uses art and design to educate and unite diverse communities, cultures, and faiths.
INTERFAITH DIALOGUES, LECTURES ON DESIGN / ARABIC CALLIGRAPHY,
BRINGING DIVERSE COMMUNITIES TOGETHER THROUGH ART & DESIGN
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY - HINDUISM, DESIGN, AND WHY A HINDU IS A TRAINED ISLAMIC ARABIC CALLIGRAPHER
NYU UNIVERSITY - PANEL DISCUSSIONS WITH MUSLIM, JEWISH, AND CHRISTIAN STUDENTS MODERATED BY A HINDU
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY - FEMINISM IN RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS - A FEMALE RABBI (JUDAISM), SHEIKHA (ISLAMIC SCHOLAR), HINDU
AWARDED CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR FOR INTERFAITH PROGRAMMING BY CHELSEA CLINTON
“Thank you Sangeetha. Wonderful speaker coming from a beautiful heart and intention. She has a universal consciousness that is humbling.”
HINDU CHAPLAINCY
Sangeetha Kowsik, founder of Ihsan Ishan Design, a rare Hindu American Chaplain,
is dedicated to helping others connect with the profound spiritual significance of Hinduism.
As an Indian American priest trained in puja rites and temple traditions, she offers
inclusive ceremonies, talks, and lectures to make traditional practices meaningful in modern life.
Founder of NYU’s Hindu Center, she welcomes individuals from all backgrounds,
interfaith families, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Fluent in Sanskrit and South Asian languages, she provides insightful explanations of rituals, dispels misconceptions,
sharing the richness of Hinduism to inspire greater understanding and connection among people of different backgrounds.
Book Sangeetha for pujas or talks to connect with Hinduism in a way that resonates with you.
A Female Hindu Priest
Sangeetha, a rare female Hindu priest and first-generation Indian American, was trained in Hindu puja rites by her father, who built three Hindu temples in the U.S. As the founder of NYU's Hindu Center, she performs inclusive and customizable pujas for diverse communities, including Indian Americans, interfaith individuals, and LGBTQI+ communities. Well versed in Sanskrit and South Asian languages, trained in Indian Classical Music, she tailors her ceremonies to both Western and traditional audiences, explaining the meaning behind each ritual. Contact her below to request a puja.
