About Padma Haldar

My husband Arnab and I came to the U.S. in 1995 to pursue higher studies. We were both electrical engineers from India.

Padma and her family in 2008

I went to the University of South Carolina (USC) to complete a master’s degree in computer engineering, and Arnab did his MBA from California State University at Long Beach.

I spent almost 10 years working at ISI, USC’s Computing Research Institute. Around 2994, while still working there, I came across Ananda, Swami Kriyananda and Yogananda’s teachings. Everything resonated with me, and I knew I had found my spiritual home; meanwhile I was getting less and less satisfied with my job, sitting in front of a computer everyday.

I wanted to do something more meaningful. Also by this time we’ve had 2 girls, Roopsha, 6 and Ronjini, 3. When research fundings became scarce and I lost my job, instead of looking for another one I wanted to do something different.

I became a High School teacher. This is my 3rd year of teaching at a low socio-economic area in Greater Los Angeles area. I teach Physics and Earth Science and I enjoy it very much. And while I try to do the balancing act between the roles of mother, wife, teacher, daughter, sister, and friend, the teachings and blessings of Paramhansa Yogananda, my guru, show me the way.

And although we live our busy city lives now, one day I hope to be living in a spiritual community with other devotees.