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The War They Could Not Win, Part 3: How Dharmic Pluralism Defied Empire and Ideology
This installment analyzes why attempts to homogenize the subcontinent’s diverse religious and cultural life repeatedly failed. It shows how dharmic pluralismIshta in Hindu Dharma, Anekantavada in Jainism, upāya in Buddhism, and seva in Sikhismfunctioned as a civilizational architecture of resilience. The discussion traces colonial knowledge projects, legal codification, and endowment management, and explains how communities…
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From Denial to Discernment: Unmasking Prejudice with Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh Wisdom
Prejudice often hides behind the confident refrain, “Who, me? Never!”a denial that blocks learning. This essay unpacks prejudice with clear definitions from social psychology and aligns them with dharmic analyses of avidya, kleshas, and papañca. Drawing on Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura’s warning against party-spirit, it offers a practical roadmap to move from self-satisfaction to viveka-driven discernment.…
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Ishta – Swami Vivekananda on why Hindu sects don’t quarrel
Swami Vivekananda’s teachings on the concept of “Ishta” highlight the profound wisdom behind the harmonious coexistence of diverse Hindu sects and spiritual paths in India. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that individuals have different natures, requiring various methods of worship and spirituality. This acceptance of diversity is contrasted with certain missionary efforts that seek…