Events
Sip, See & Spark
Date: Thursday, November 13th, 2025
Time: 6 pm
Location: Bar Esperanto inside Hotel Ylem at 8080 Main Street Houston Texas 77025
An evening to unwind, celebrate, and connect after an incredible month of divine energy, creativity, and community.
Sip: Enjoy your favorite drink or mocktail from the bar as we toast to new connections.
See: Catch up with friends, artists, and fellow attendees in a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.
Spark: Keep the Big Devi Energy alive with good conversation, and laughter.
No dress code, no pressure...just your beautiful self, good vibes, and open hearts.
We can’t wait to see you to celebrate you and the divine energy we’ve created together.
Past Event: Big Devi Energy Conference 2025
Follow us @bigdevienergy for updates on next year's conference!
Past Event: Community Chai @ Doshi House
Our Community Chai gathering was a beautiful afternoon of conversation, connection, and creativity.The event blended heartfelt dialogue with lighthearted community energy, creating a sense of belonging and togetherness.
From deep discussions about purpose and growth to laughter and casual networking, Community Chai reminded us how powerful it is when people gather with open hearts.
Relive the moments and see the joy for yourself by clicking below.
Offerings of the Day
Navigate below to uncover how the day will unfold
The World Is Sound
The World Is Sound
The World Is Sound is an immersive journey into healing and presence through vibration, voice, and breath. Guided by three facilitators, the session weaves together Shital Dalwadi’s exploration of sound healing and Shabd Yoga, Meera Dawson’s sound bath that opens participants’ voices and bathes them in the vibrations of crystal bowls, chimes, and other healing instruments for a calm, nourished, and connected state, and Rochelle Mannigel’s grounding breathwork techniques. Together, they create a powerful space where sound becomes a portal for release, connection, and transformation—inviting participants to listen deeply, express authentically, and embody the resonance of the present moment.
Decolonizing the Feminine
Decolonizing the Feminine
This panel explores the feminine as it has been dressed, colored, and conditioned through colonial frameworks. From the intimate relationship we have with our skin to the textiles that once told our ancestral stories, the conversation centers on what has been lost, what has been preserved, and what we are consciously reclaiming.
Artist and designer Rakhee Jain will share how textiles and fashion serve as tools for cultural reclamation, allowing South Asians to reconnect with heritage through the clothes they wear.
Dr. Anita Wadhwa will offer a historical lens on colorism, inviting us to examine how Eurocentric beauty standards have impacted generations of self-worth and belonging.
Priya Ramkissoon, founder of Imiloa Collective, will bring insight into how sustainable artisan practices and community-centered design help preserve cultural knowledge while supporting economic resilience.
Moderated by creative strategist and storyteller Zainob Amao, this session invites participants to reflect on how the feminine continues to evolve—and how reclaiming our stories can lead to a more rooted and liberated identity.
Conscious Relationships: A Journey Back to Self
Conscious Relationships: A Journey Back to Self
Every relationship we experience—whether with family, partners, children, or friends—is a mirror of our own evolution. Just as the caterpillar dissolves completely before emerging as a butterfly, true transformation in our relationships requires deep inner work. How we give, receive, set boundaries, and heal stems from the energy we carry within—shaped by past experiences, karmic imprints, and soul lessons.
In this intimate sharing circle, Shilpa Agarwal will open the session with insights on the energy of relationships, karmic imprints, and the Akashic Records—guiding us to explore how our inner world shapes our outer connections.
True connection begins within. When we honor our personal metamorphosis, our external relationships evolve with us. This session invites you to turn inward, listen deeply, and emerge transformed.
📍 Format: Small-group sharing circles following an introduction by Shilpa Agarwal
🌀 Duration: 60 minutes
Yoga of Self Discovery
Yoga of Self Discovery
Gunjen will offer a rejuvenating and healing movement-based session intertwining both classical Indian dance and Yoga Vinyasa. A focus on somatic awareness will be incorporated to allow for body exploration/discovery, promote nervous system regulation, and inward reflection. Each session begins with a journaling exercise using mindfulness writing prompts followed by loosening, dynamic exercises, simple yoga asanas and dance movements, pranayama (or breathwork) and guided meditation to bring about harmony and stillness of the mind. This session is designed to harness our Creative Intelligence and discover the subtler layers of existence and to tap into something unknown and profound.All beautiful body types, colors and abilities are welcome to join! No experience in dance or yoga necessary. Please bring with you something to write on/with, a yoga mat, water, a towel and feel free to wear loose breathable clothes. Peace!
An Artist-Led Exploration of Transformation
An Artist-Led Exploration of Transformation
Art is a reflection of transformation—of self, society, and spirit. In this closing session, the House of Devi Art Gallery comes to life as participating artists take center stage to discuss the theme of Metamorphosis—how change, growth, and evolution shape both their artistic process and personal journeys. As we close the day, this conversation serves as a powerful reminder that metamorphosis is ongoing, and we are all works in progress.
📍 Format: Artist-led discussion + audience engagement with Jasmine Shah of The Jung Center
🌀 Duration: 60 minutes
Art, Connection & Celebration
Art, Connection & Celebration
As the Big Devi Energy Conference comes to a close, we invite you to linger, connect, and celebrate at our Mocktail Party & Art Showcase in the House of Devi Art Gallery. From 5-7 PM, enjoy an evening of art, conversation, and creativity, surrounded by the stunning works of our featured artists.
✨ Sip on handcrafted mocktails and indulge in light bites & sweets
✨ Engage with the artists as they discuss their work and inspirations
✨ Explore & shop unique pieces of art, jewelry, and streetwear created exclusively for this event
✨ Network & unwind with like-minded souls in a space designed for deep connection
This closing celebration is more than just an ending—it’s an invitation to take a piece of Big Devi Energy with you, whether through a new connection, a meaningful conversation, or a special piece of art.
Our Presenting Artists
Artist & Director of Artistic Programming
Sneha Bhavsar
Sneha Bhavar is a Houston based visual artist working through multiple mediums to highlight our human connections - across history, cultures and continents. Her paintings, installations and handicrafts employ folk art motifs and culturally based textile patterns to explore cultural heritage, rituals and folklore. Sneha's South Asian background heavily inspires and guides both her professional artwork and personal endeavors in fostering an appreciation for inclusivity and cultural diversity.
Artist & Panelist
Pothik Chatterjee
Pothik Chatterjee is an award-winning abstract artist of South Asian descent, with galleries in New York City & Baltimore, and based out of Houston. Chatterjee has over 35K followers across social media channels for his vibrant paintings inspired by Hindu mythology, divine goddess energy, yoga, meditation and the tranquility of nature. Chatterjee was born in Kolkata, India and grew up in Dubai, Paris, Abu Dhabi and Jakarta as a global citizen. Chatterjee is Harvard-educated and completed his artistic training with Princeton University Arts Council. His earliest paintings as a child were of Hindu Goddesses like Durga and Saraswati for the Bengali community's temple festivals and magazines. Today, his abstract paintings bridge his South Asian culture, Hindu spirituality with the intersectionality of being openly and proudly LGBTQ, a father, husband, and the universality of the human experience. His art is available at pothikchatterjee.com - both original art and commissions are available for collectors.
Artist & Panelist
Rakhee Jain Desai
(b. Mississauga, Canada) is a multidisciplinary artist employing textile/fiber, painting, installation, public art, and moving images to narrate personal stories within her community. Her work interweaves themes of integration, empowerment, and resilience, reflecting the shared experiences for many women of color and immigrant communities. Her artistic approach revolves around storytelling to shed light on overlooked narratives, fostering intergenerational connections crucial for a more pluralistic society. Instagram: @rjdartist Website: www.rakheejaindesai.com
Artist
Amy Malkan
Amy Malkan is a public artist, social impact artrepreneur and community developer. Her family heritage from India and Africa and travels have influenced her artistic expression. She is best known for her community based public art projects. Malkan fundamentally believes that everyone deserves access and exposure to the arts, therefore she strives to engage the public in the design and production of most of her public art projects. She has completed over a 100 mural projects and is looking forward to keep expanding as an artist!
Artist
Ami Mehta
Ami Mehta is a multidisciplinary visual artist working primarily in inks, charcoal, textiles, and enamel. She creates in both abstract expressionist and figurative veins and draws from her eclectic experiences growing up in a drastically disparate array of cultures, as well as from her twelve years studying and working in architecture. Ami’s works are included in the permanent art collections of the City of Houston, Houston Endowment, the Alamo Community College system, University Health Women and Children’s Hospital, North Shore University Hospital, Fort Bend County and the University of Houston. Ami also has permanent pieces in locations around Houston such as, The Magnolia Hotel, JW Marriott and Four Seasons, as well as in other cities such as The Gwen in Chicago, Westin Mammoth Lakes, Washington Court Hotel in DC, Hard Rock Hotel Fort Lauderdale, Four Seasons Dallas, and ICON’s House Zero in Austin.
Artist
Anjali Nanda
I’m Anjali, an artist who blends the beauty of traditional Indian art with a fresh, modern voice. My paintings draw from Madhubani, Pichwai, and Gond — each known for their intricate patterns, rich symbolism, and deep cultural roots. I layer these traditions with vibrant colors and contemporary forms to create work that explores spirituality, resilience, identity, and motherhood. Living away from India, painting has become my way of staying close to my heritage while creating art that speaks to something universal. For me, art is both storytelling and soulwork — a way to share beauty, meaning, and connection with others.
Artist
Sheetal Otia
Sheetal Otia is a talented moss artist with over 25 years of experience. Her artistic journey began as a henna artist, where she first explored her creativity through intricate designs inspired by her cultural heritage. Over time, her passion evolved, leading her to explore Hindu mythological characters in her artwork, further deepening her connection to her roots.
Panelist & Artist
Jigna Patel
Jigna Patel is a contemporary abstract artist who lived in Houston for 23 years, and recently moved to Chicago. Her path to painting has been deeply shaped by both science and spirit. Originally from England, she first explored art and textile design during her GCSE studies before choosing a career in clinical pharmacy. After 16 years in organ transplant and critical care, including eight years painting part-time for collectors around the world, Jigna transitioned fully into art—channeling her healing energy through canvas instead of medicine. Her return to painting began as a creative outlet after the birth of her second child and soon evolved into a passion for mixed media, including resin, inks, and oils. Today, her work is rooted in Organic Abstract Expressionism and guided by a desire to inspire, empower, and uplift through color, texture, and movement.
Artist
Anu Srivastav
A Houstonian of South Asian (Indian) origin, Anu has been actively creating art for over 35 years. She has worked with a variety of media over the years creating sculptures, paintings and performance & live visual art. Today, she primarily works with oil and acrylic with a focus on large abstracts. Born in New Orleans and raised in Houston, and having also lived in Oslo, Mumbai and Goa, Anu often incorporates cultural themes from her life experiences into her work.
Artist
Manju Unnikrishnan
Our Facilitators
Conscious Relationships—A Journey Back to Self
Shilpa Agarwal
Shilpa Agarwal is an internationally published author, decolonial academic, and pranic healer. She brings a profound intention of healing and transformation to all areas of her work and life, with a focus on helping individuals and families recover their health, harmony, and vitality. She facilitates healing through frameworks based in Yoga, Tantra, and Ayurveda, and modern understandings of trauma, epigenetics, and vibrational medicine. She teaches classes designed to foster healing and reconnection, including Yoga of Relationship and Yoga of Motherhood.
Moderator
Zainob Amao
Zainob Amao is the Founder and Creative Director of A.M.A.O, a woman-owned, cross-disciplinary strategy and creative consultancy. A designer, curator, producer, and storyteller, she creates socially conscious narratives recognized by The New York Times, Vogue, ABC, PBS, Hulu, BET, and the James Beard Foundation. Rooted in ethics, equity, and ancestral wisdom, her work bridges cultural divides, amplifies underrepresented voices, and reimagines how audiences engage with culture. As Creative Director for ChòpnBlọk, she has transformed the West African dining concept into a platform for culinary and cultural storytelling. Based in Houston, Zainob champions the belief that blended perspectives enrich the human experience.
The world is sound
Shital Dalwadi
Shital Dalwadi is the co-founder and Creative Director of House of Devi, where she merges ancestral memory, artistry, and spiritual inquiry into wearable and experiential offerings. A classically trained Kathak dancer and emerging visual artist, Shital draws from her background in movement and energy healing to explore how sound, form, and story live in the body. At the Big Devi Energy Conference, she steps into both co-visionary and facilitator roles, guiding The World is Sound—a meditative, multisensory experience that explores the sacred resonance of bells across cultures and spiritual traditions. Through vibration, visual art, and silence, she invites participants to listen not just with their ears, but with their whole being. Her work is rooted in curiosity, reverence, and the belief that transformation begins in the subtle—where the invisible becomes felt, and the felt becomes known.
The World is Sound
Meera Dawson
Meera Dawson is a sound healer, spiritual hypnotist, and voice practitioner based in Houston, Texas. She uses sound, hypnosis, and additional modalities to help others hear and follow their inner voice and connect to the present moment. She is the creator of Inner Voice Integration Practice (I-VIP), a simple voice practice that helps to improve self-love, self-expression, and belonging. Meera teaches I-VIP in personal and group sessions and experiences. Meera and Anita Vyas of Antar Glow co-founded Houston Unified Sound Healers (HUSH), an organization that supports and advocates for the sound healers of Houston.
The World is sound
Rochelle Mannigel
Rochelle's Inspiration Classes are inspired by simple concepts of self care, compassion and companionship. Each of these components are vital to a powerful yoga practice and real life! She teaches energized vinyasa flow, cardio, restore and warm/hot, sonic yoga classes from her heart and soul with the desire to share her experiences. She encourages students to believe in their own ability and the use of breath to enable them to power through and experience an incredible practice. She enjoys bringing like-minded folks together, grounded and connected in the love of yoga and community. She encourages each and every one of her students to just reach for those beautiful moments and be stronger, be kinder and JUST BE. Self love = whole hearted happiness!
Yoga of Discovery
Gunjen Mittal
Gunjen Mittal is a healing justice advocate and a performing artist who serves her community as a Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Therapist, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Self-Taught Herbalist and a Permaculture organic gardener. She is an intuitive mixed-media artist, a poet and a classically trained Indian dancer (specializing in Odissi) and a Freestyle dancer since childhood. She is initiated in and continues to study the Himalayan Kriya meditation system and tantric sciences by monks all based in Sanskrit heritage. Gunjen currently works to address intersectional racial/health inequities centering the lives of BIPOC, immigrant and refugee communities from a holistic perspective. She also worked with victims and survivors of gender-based violence and trauma for over 15 years both in Houston and Austin. Gunjen has served on the Boards of Daya Houston, Voices Breaking Boundaries and is currently serving for a Community Acupuncture Collective in Austin. Gunjen loves co-creating a world of collective innerstanding and liberation for all.
Panelist
Priya Ramkissoon
Funder and Director of Imiloa Collective, a social creative enterprise dedicated to preserving traditional craft and empowering marginalized communities. Working across Southern Africa, the UK, and the US, Imiloa supports artisans—particularly women and refugees—through skill-sharing, design innovation, and cultural storytelling. Priya’s work centers on honoring heritage while reimagining craft in contemporary contexts, creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and global dialogue. Through public art, exhibitions, and community collaborations, she champions cultural preservation, creative entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural exchange. Priya believes that traditional craft is not only a creative practice but a vital link to identity, resilience, and belonging.
Moderator
Jasmine Shah
Jasmine Shah is a visionary educator, poetic thinker, and the Director of the Jung Center’s Mind Body Spirit Institute. With an M.A. in Psychology and Spirituality from Columbia University, her work bridges the realms of trauma, consciousness, and transpersonal psychology. Her scholarly work delves into the intricate interplay between psychology, consciousness, and transpersonal psychology, exploring how the soul expresses itself through cycles of death and rebirth, light and shadow. Her work is a living inquiry into how the arts, psychology, and consciousness coalesce, calling us into a more soulful, post-materialistic future where creativity becomes a path to collective renewal.
Panelist
Dr. Anita Wadhwa
Anita Wadhwa is a native Houstonian and daughter of Punjabi immigrants. She is Executive Director of Restorative Houston, and a former classroom teacher and restorative justice coordinator. She is author of Restorative Justice in Urban Schools: Disrupting the School to Prison Pipeline, co-author of The Little Book of Youth Engagement in Restorative Justice. and a contributor to Colorizing Restorative Justice. She hires and consults with former students to train in restorative practices. She owes everything to her parents, husband, and two lovely girls. She lives in Houston, Texas on the land of the Karankawa, Sana, and Atakapa.
Sound Healer
Anita Vyas
Anita Vyas is the founder of Antar Glow, a mobile sanctuary offering crystal bowl sound baths, women’s circles, and Dance Into Stillness—a 90-minute journey blending Bollywood dance fitness with sound healing. With 15+ years in higher education and a background in instructional design, she bridges science and soul to create safe, transformative spaces. With over a decade as a Bollywood dancer and choreographer at Naach Houston, Anita brings joy, embodiment, and cultural celebration into every gathering. Rooted in her Indian heritage and grounded in Texas, Anita believes healing can be both sacred and playful—inviting all to tune in, slow down, and glow from within.
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