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The Truth, the Means, and the Goal

The general content demanded of any form of siddhanta, or ‘philosophical conclusion,’ whether a short poem or longer exposition, is that it should offer nothing less than a cogent, wide-ranging and well-evidenced explanation of Brahman, the ultimate reality, the infinite origin of all things, and the foundational matrix of all existence. The explanation must describe how the observer, the individual,…

The Gentle Art of Debate

In ancient India, in a green mountain valley fed by rushing ice-cold streams, two groups of philosophers sit down to debate in public. Eyeing one another with keenness and memorizing last-minute lines of handwritten text, the pundits wait patiently while hundreds of people gather to watch. Coloured flags curl and snap in the fresh breeze, and the fragrance of incense…

Navigating the English Channel Asylum Seekers Crisis

The English Channel has long been a symbol of shared history and cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and the continent. However, in recent years, the calm waters have witnessed a surge of small boats carrying asylum seekers from various parts of the world, sparking a heated debate about immigration policies and national security. I feel it is important to…

Celebrating Golden Milestones: 50th Anniversaries of 2023

The year 2023 marks a significant juncture in history as it commemorates the 50th anniversaries of various events, achievements, and cultural milestones that have left an indelible mark on our world. From iconic moments in technology and entertainment to ground-breaking achievements in science and society, these golden milestones serve as a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the legacies…

Gender: A Delicate Balance

In the current socio-cultural landscape, the establishment of new norms surrounding transgender identity has emerged as a contentious issue that demands thoughtful consideration and balanced discourse. As society grapples with evolving notions of gender and identity, it is imperative to approach this topic with a discerning eye. What is required is a perspective that seeks to address the problems associated…

Golden Hours in Darkest Winter

Sunrise in England. Hard to catch it, sometimes, but always worth the effort. This week I have been thinking about the Gayatri mantra and how it is chanted at sunrise, noon and sunset. Although the Hare Krishna maha-mantra can be chanted without following any ‘hard and fast rules,’ the Gayatri does have rules attached to it, and they must be…