Year: <span>2023</span>

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On Audrey Truschke’s “Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India’s Most Controversial King”
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October 26, 2023August 29, 2024BOOK REVIEW, COMMENTARY, HISTORY

On Audrey Truschke’s “Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India’s Most Controversial King”

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"Bridging the chasm between the historical Aurangzeb and this reimagined (and largely imaginary) Aurangzeb is a daunting task, but Truschke makes her case with the chirpy enthusiasm of an Aurangzeb fangirl writing a puff piece in People magazine on her idol.
The received historiography on Aurangzeb is riddled with outlandish hoaxes that have gone unchallenged for decades. Truschke’s book is a worthy addition to this genre since it refreshes our memories of these hoaxes while enthusiastically manufacturing new ones."
An incisive and witty review of Audrey Truschke's book on Aurangzeb, and her source material, by Keshav Pingali.

The Curious Case of Hero Worship
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October 25, 2023August 29, 2024COMMENTARY, POLITICS

The Curious Case of Hero Worship

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The concept and popularity of hero worship is as old as time. Who then, can be classified as a hero? Are heroes born or created? Can hero worship endure long after the hero is gone?
Anshul Kalia explores all this, with special emphasis on the propensity of the Indian populace to hero-worship political leaders.

Divine Nexus: Salience of Hindu Temples
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October 20, 2023August 29, 2024Temple, COMMENTARY

Divine Nexus: Salience of Hindu Temples

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"To fully understand the social significance of Mandirs, one must delve into their profound philosophical underpinnings, historical moorings and cultural importance. Our Mandirs are the veritable embodiments of our culture, philosophy, and spirituality. Rooted in ancient Hindu tradition, Mandirs play a vital role in shaping the social and cultural fabric of India."

Understanding Indian Economy: Ancient To Modern – Part 1
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October 19, 2023August 29, 2024COMMENTARY, ECONOMY, HISTORY

Understanding Indian Economy: Ancient To Modern – Part 1

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"For a long time, Marxist historians had a hegemonic hold on only one type of discourse. Marxist linear history represents India and its traditions as the past, or decadence, and the West as the future, or progress. In a world where globalisation, trade, and mutual exchange are a given, it is disagreeable to argue that perhaps we needed an invasion or colonisation to open our eyes to the world."

Bridging Ancient Philosophies: The River of Consciousness
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October 16, 2023August 29, 2024OPINION, COMMENTARY

Bridging Ancient Philosophies: The River of Consciousness

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"Rather than getting entangled in doctrinal differences, it might serve us better to find the confluences, the shared understandings, and the universal truths that have guided humanity for millennia. In that spirit of unity, the river of consciousness presents a philosophical bridge, beckoning us to ponder, reflect, and ultimately understand."

The Significance of the Bhakt and Bhakti in Hinduism
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October 3, 2023August 29, 2024PERSPECTIVE

The Significance of the Bhakt and Bhakti in Hinduism

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Bhakti, as a profound spiritual path within Hinduism, encompasses the deep love, devotion, and surrender to the divine. While the term "Bhakt" has gained popularity in political contexts, its use as a label for followers of a particular leader is objectionable as it trivializes the spiritual essence of Bhakti.