Khajuraho: Architectural Marvels, Cultural Heritage, Artistic Inspiration
Anjali KanojiaLess than a two-hour flight from Kashi, Khajuraho is my favorite place in India besides Kashi. When I take folks on a Northern Indian tour, I usually spend time in…
Beyond Belief: Spirituality and Religiosity Trends in the United States
Being religious is different from being spiritual. There has been a trend worldwide where more people indicate they are spiritual but not religious. While the term 'spiritual' has specific connotations…
Honoring Ancestors: A Comparative Exploration of the Day of the Dead and Pitru Paksha
Numerous cultural and spiritual commonalities are discernible in ancient world cultures, characterized by the prevalence of rituals and practices centered on venerating the deceased. Among these traditions, the Day of…
Kalaripayattu: Tracing the Indian Influence on Asian Martial Arts
Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala, India, is a testament to the enduring legacy of physical prowess, cultural heritage, and historical evolution. Rooted in both legend and historical documentation,…
Interwoven Legacies: China and India’s Dharmic & Cultural Interactions
A spiritually fruitful visit to China, especially to Guangdong and other historically significant sites, inspires this post. China's rich and diverse cultural history, spanning over 5,000 years, offers a unique…
Solitude at Sarnath
Sarnath is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This quiet town is minutes from the Hindu pilgrimage city of Kashi, and it is believed that Sarnath is where…
The Meaning of “Asato Ma Sadgamaya” Mantra
This Sanskrit mantra is often heard at the beginning and closure of yoga classes and practices. What exactly does it signify? "Asato Ma Sadgamaya" is a mantra with deep spiritual…
Temples as Sacred Spaces in Indian Philosophies
Philosophies and traditions that originate from the more incredible Indian subcontinent all have one thing in common – discussions related to realizing one’s true nature. Ancient literature and methods such…
South Africa: A Journey Through Nature, History, and Culture
South Africa is a fantastic travel destination; I love the mountains and the ocean. It is one of the most beautiful and environmentally diverse places, allowing one to experience mother…
The Many Buddhas – Essence, Not Identity
Many Buddhas There have been thousands of Buddhas on this planet, before and even after Gautama the Buddha. This means that "Buddha" is not a name but rather a quality…