Category: Spirituality in India

Learn more about the ancient approach to spirituality in India – it’s more complex than it seems!

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A Way of Life Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

What is the Bhagavad Gita?

The Bhagawad Gita - Lord Krishna imparts some divine advice to Arjuna
The Bhagawad Gita - The Divine Discourse - Lord Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna

The Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse Hindu scripture, part of the Mahabharata, presenting a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and his guide Krishna on the battlefield. It’s a philosophical guide offering insights on duty (Dharma), ethics, and living a fulfilling life. The Gita addresses life’s challenges, advocating for right action without attachment, mindfulness, and the pursuit of self-realization. The Gita provides practical wisdom for moral living and spiritual guidance, remaining relevant across time and cultures.

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A Way of Life Indian culture Spirituality in India Traditions

The Purpose of Life

A digital illustration in a 16 9 aspect ratio, reflecting a profound meditation on the purpose of life. The central figure is seated in a classic lotus position
Pondering the Purpose of Life

The Indian philosophy outlines four life goals—Dharma (duty), Artha (prosperity), Kama (pleasure), and Moksha (liberation)—collectively called the “Purusharthas”. These principles advocate a balanced approach to ethical living, financial security, enjoyment, and spiritual enlightenment. Embracing these pursuits fosters a fulfilling, meaningful existence, transcending cultural bounds.

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Indian culture Spirituality in India

Are you a Hindu?

Mother Goddess - Durga Devi
Durga Devi - Mother Goddess

Hinduism is the world’s third-largest religion, with over 1.2 billion adherents. It is a diverse and complex religion with a rich history and tradition. Yet, there is no single definition of Hinduism, but it is generally understood to be a way of life that is based on some core beliefs

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

Om or Aum?

OM or AUM Symbol
The OM Symbol

Summary “Om” or “Aum” is a sacred sound with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Indian traditions. It represents the ultimate reality or divine essence. Chanting or saying “Om” is believed to facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and connection with the divine. The benefits of chanting “Om” include relaxation, stress reduction, improved focus, and a sense […]

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

Maya – It’s all an illusion!

A hyper-realistic digital illustration in a 16 9 aspect ratio, exploring the concept of Maya, the illusory nature of existence as understood in Indian traditions
Maya - is it all an illusion

In Indian philosophy, Maya represents an illusion, suggesting that our sensory perceptions of the world may not reflect its true nature. To transcend Maya, one must cultivate detachment and seek deeper truths through practices like meditation and self-reflection. Maya conceals reality, causing separation and ignorance, impeding spiritual enlightenment until one pierces through its veil to recognize their inherent divinity. This understanding leads to realizing Brahman—an immutable, supreme reality underlying the universe—and achieving liberation from the cycle of suffering and illusion.

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

What is Dharma?

A hyper-realistic digital illustration in a 16 9 aspect ratio, featuring the sacred 'Om' symbol at its center, encircled by traditional Indian motifs
The Om Symbol

Dharma in Indian culture signifies one’s duty aligned with moral virtues like truth and compassion. Central to spiritual growth, it involves fulfilling societal roles righteously, as highlighted in the Bhagavad Gita where Lord Krishna educates Arjuna on duty without attachment to outcomes. It aims for harmony and spiritual enlightenment through dedicated, selfless action.

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

Samsara – is our existence an endless cycle?

Green Blosson - representing Samsara
Samsara - a representation

Summary The concept of Samsara refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all living beings are believed to go through. According to this belief, a person’s actions and thoughts in their current life determine their future experiences, including their next birth. This cycle continues indefinitely until the individual is able to break […]

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

Karma is a what?

Karma
Karma not Carma :)

A lot is said about Karma nowadays. There is a popularly used phrase which indicates bad deeds will not go unpunished. Where does this word come from? What does it really mean? Read on…. Summary Karma is the concept that actions have consequences. In India, it is believed that every action, thought, and word generates […]

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A Way of Life About... Indian culture Spirituality in India

Ancient and very simple, 10 guidelines for life

A photographic depiction of a scenic road winding through a vibrant countryside in a 16 9 aspect ratio. The road is paved with interlocking stones and flanked by green tea garden with trees in between with purple flowers
A simple way of life

Embrace ancient Indian philosophical principles for a peaceful life: perform your duty (Dharma) with integrity, engage in positive deeds, detach from the outcomes, recognize life’s illusions (Maya), and seek ultimate liberation (Moksha). Cultivate present-moment awareness, inner growth, and balance, guided by compassion, love, and contentment. Integrating these tenets nurtures self-discovery and harmony.

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About... Desi Words or Terms Indian culture Spirituality in India

What is Moksha?

Moksha - when the self merges with the divine - A digital illustration in a 16 9 aspect ratio, depicting a mystical being of light and energy. The figure stands with arms outstretched, radiating a bright lightning
Moksha - when the self merges with the divine

Moksha in Indian philosophies represents liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). Achieved through spiritual practices, it culminates in eternal peace and unity with the divine. Karma influences the cycle, with actions affecting future lives. Moksha and Buddhism’s Nirvana both aim for the transcendence of worldly existence and the realization of spiritual truths. Dharma and Karma are critical for attaining Moksha, with Karma dictating the spiritual journey and Dharma guiding righteous living.