Modernity universalizes Enlightenment ideals of equality, recasting Dharmic order as moral failure. But in Dharma, justice lies not in sameness, but in harmony—each being acting in accordance with its Svabhāva and Svadharma. The caste system, far from being a hierarchy of worth, was a framework of reciprocal duty, now misunderstood and maligned through colonial and liberal lenses. True reform lies not in dismantling tradition, but in reclaiming its wisdom with renewed understanding.
Sandeep Singh’s 'Temple Economics' explores the economic systems around Hindu temples with meticulous detail. Divided into four parts, the book covers the history, destruction, and potential restoration of temple economies, emphasizing their cultural and economic significance.
In this article, Dr. Pingali Gopal explores the unequal and complicated relationship between humans and animals, delving into the complexities of meat consumption, animal abuse and the varied definitions and perceptions surrounding them. The author contrasts the extensive use and exploitation of animals in the modern world with perspectives from Dharmic traditions. He presents the views of Swami Vivekananda and Ramana Maharishi on the subject to illustrate the nuanced stance of Dharma on the subject.
Professor Vamsee Juluri dicusses the impact of media during Indian elections and the resurgence of Hindu culture, tackling issues of propaganda and polarization. He emphasizes the significance of media literacy, cultural ownership, and constructive engagement to preserve cultural integrity. His insights cover disarming propaganda, post-2024 Election strategies for survival and revival, and details about the new edition of "Rearming Hinduism."
Chapter 15 of Śaṅkara Charitam, titled Guru Parampara, takes us through the experience of Śaṅkara taking his leave from his Guru Govinda Bhagavatpāda and embarking on his journey to Kasi. The Guru Parampara, the lineage of the Gurus who preceeded Śaṅkara, is explored.
The Ramayana is an epic of unparalleled significance in Hindu mythology. It is rightly and widely regarded as a story that epitomizes righteousness, duty, sacrifice, and devotion. At its heart, however, lies the eternal love story of Prabhu Shri Rama and Mata Sita; a divine saga that transcends the boundaries of time and serves as the very essence of the epic.
A comprehensive review of "Rama of the Axe" by Ranjith Radhakrishnan, and his treatment of plots and characters beyond what is mainstream, including but not limited to the protagonist Bhagwan Parashurama and the antagonist Kartyavira Arjuna.
Rohan Raghav Sharma reviews SL Bhyrappa's "Aavarana - the veil" translated from the original Kannada into English by Sandeep Balakrishnan. He explores the multi-layered plot, the flow of the story, and evolution of the characters while also touching upon salient points of criticism along with his own critique of the book.
"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."
"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."