SAHAS - Our Global Family
Global Federation of Societies of Afghan Hindus and Sikhs
The Afghan Hindu Association and Asa'Mai Hindu Temple in Hicksville are proud members of SAHAS, a worldwide federation that unites more than 27 independent Afghan Hindu and Sikh associations, mandirs and gurdwaras under one family and one voice.
Why SAHAS Matters
For generations our families lived, prayed and served side by side in Afghanistan, from the ancient Koh-e Asamai in Kabul to mandirs and gurdwaras across the country. As our community resettled in the United States, Europe, India and beyond, SAHAS was formed to keep us connected. Registered in New York on August 15, 2021 as a 501(c)(3) public charity, SAHAS represents Afghan Hindu and Sikh interests before the United Nations and governments, so that the needs of our people are heard wherever they live.
What SAHAS Does
Unity
Brings Afghan Hindu and Sikh organizations worldwide together as one coordinated body.
Seva and Support
Pools resources to provide financial and educational help to at-risk women, children and seniors in Afghanistan and around the world.
Heritage
Preserves our languages, traditions, music, food and history, and passes them on to the next generation.
Celebration
Organizes international festivals and community events that honor Hindu and Sikh values.
Our Place in SAHAS
Asa'Mai Mandir in Hicksville is one of the Asa'Mai temples that carry the eternal flame of Kabul's Koh-e Asamai around the world, alongside our sister temples in Silver Spring, Frankfurt, Kortrijk, Zaandam, Southall and Faridabad. As part of SAHAS, our mandir connects Long Island's Afghan Hindu families to this global family, and every member of our sangat is part of it too.