As part of the 23rd Annual Interfaith Peace Chanukah in Taos, NM, Hindus for Human Rights Board Member Punya Upadhyaya offered a heartfelt speech weaving together traditions of peace, justice, and love.

Through poetry and invocation, Punya invited the audience to reflect on the power of the universal mother figure—fierce, compassionate, and nurturing. Drawing connections between traditions, the speech emphasized the importance of collective healing and addressing injustices such as antisemitism, Islamophobia, and systemic violence.

"We ask for her blessings to cleanse our souls... so that we can come to each other and embrace each other."

The event beautifully embodied the spirit of unity and interfaith solidarity, calling for miracles of love and action in these challenging times.

Watch the full speech below: