Gratitude can be a powerful force. We are often so caught up in our goals and objectives, we tend to forget the blessings showered upon us.

As Thanksgiving is just around the corner, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for all there is to be grateful for.

First, I would like to thank my parents for all their sacrifices and commitment towards offering the best life for me and my sister. We immigrated back and forth between India and the States where both my sister and I had the opportunity to learn more about our cultural heritage and live in the land of the free, home of the brave, where quite literally anything can be accomplished.

Everyone has a best friend but I am blessed to have a sister as my best friend. She has held me in her arms since I was an infant and has accentuated every characteristic of a role model. She has been the sister any little sibling hopes to have and witnessed my highs and lows with the same unconditional love.

These past nineteen years would have been strikingly different without the presence of music. My humble namaskarams to all my gurus for cultivating my interest in this art form. Music has been an integral part of who I am today and I am fortunate to have these mentors guide me through this incredible journey.

I would like to thank God for blessing me with a life, filled with opportunities, that allows me to grow into better human being every single day.

I am also grateful to have access to education, where I have the ability to broaden my horizons and learn what my heart desires.

Education is indeed the most powerful tool and I sincerely hope to help the millions of children on the other side of the world to gain this basic human right.

My family and I moved to Houston about eight years ago, where we barely knew anyone. But Houston truly lived up to its expectations. We were integrated into a melting pot filled with pure love and warmth. I thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for making the transition process as welcoming as possible.

I cannot forget to thank my friends who have surrounded me with endless laughter and contagious positive energy. To those who have provided a shoulder to lean and cry on, even a million thanks will not suffice. I am incredibly lucky to have you in my life.

Thank you to everyone who have shaped me into the individual I am today.