The Meaning of “Asato Ma Sadgamaya” Mantra
Anjali KanojiaThis 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…
The Spiritual Awakening in Kashi: A Journey Along River Ganga
Kashi is dear to many people, including myself. If there is one place of spiritual significance that one must visit in India, it would be Kashi. Kashi, located in the…
Why Do We Revere Gurus?
Guru is a Sanskrit term that translates as the removal of darkness. Therefore, a Guru is an entity that helps shed light (figuratively) on doubts and guides the Sadhaka or…
Ganesha: The Lord of Beginnings, Wisdom, and Yoga
Ganesha is often invoked as the "Lord of Beginnings" and the "Remover of Obstacles." Devotees pray to him before starting any new endeavor, whether a wedding, a business venture, an…
Exploring the Indigenous Maya Cultures in Belize and Guatemala
Belize and Guatemala are renowned for their vibrant histories. The combination of their beautiful white sandy beaches and relaxed island culture creates a fascinating blend of historical influences. Starting from…
Teotihuacan: Unveiling the Mysteries of Mexico’s Ancient Spiritual Culture
There seem to be common themes that bind ancient cultures. The rich Mexican pre-Columbian civilizational heritage is worth exploring and understanding. My first trip to this fascinating area was right…
The Essence of Navratri: Embracing the Divine Feminine Within
While I grasped that my name, Anjali, drew inspiration from Tagore's poetry, I couldn't help but ponder: how did Ma Durga come to be revered throughout the Indian subcontinent? "Durga"…
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…