Sangeetha Kowsik, Hindu Chaplain at NYU/Columbia, is affectionately known as the #pujaqueen, because she loves her pujas (prayer rituals). As a designer/artist by profession, (in addition to interfaith work) she has always received inspiration and passion from all faiths, not just Hinduism. Born and raised in Fremont, California, she did her undergraduate studies at the Parsons School of Design and has an additional degree in Arabic Calligraphy from NYU and studied Christian miniature painting in France. She was previously the Head Designer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art where she deepened her understanding of art and iconography of all religions.
Sangeetha is classically trained in South Asian performing arts, the roots of which lie in worship, including Carnatic and Hindustani vocal (classical devotional music of both south and north India) Kathak, Bharthanatyam, and Odissi.
Her extensive working background in the world of design includes working for museums, cultural institutions, non-profits, startups, fashion, luxury, beauty, publishing houses, and as a fine artist in gallery spaces has led her to start her own design house IhsanIshan Design.
Her art/design brand IhsanIshan works for religious, cultural, and ethnic unity by connecting across global cultures through art and design, engaging all interested in knowing about the diversity of this world through the art of traditional Arabic Calligraphy (with a modern twist). Each piece has meaningful message/concept behind them that showcases unique stories, highlights shared traditions of both Hinduism & Islam, educates about global cultures, transforms negative perceptions leading to friendship, understanding, global change, and an open mind.