The Four Opinions We Carry

“I’ve got four opinions on every topic — one for myself, one for my close ones, one for society, and one for social media.” This may sound like a confession, but it is in fact the reality of almost everyone walking around with a smartphone and a mind of their own. In a world saturatedContinue reading “The Four Opinions We Carry”

Auroville: From Spiritual Wilderness to Curated Commercialism

When I first encountered the idea of Auroville, it felt like a rare experiment—almost utopian. Conceived by The Mother and rooted in Sri Aurobindo’s vision of human unity, Auroville was meant to be a space free of politics, religion, and commerce. A spiritual sanctuary that respected the earth, embraced silence, and gave room for the soul toContinue reading “Auroville: From Spiritual Wilderness to Curated Commercialism”

Why Travelling Is About Learning More Than Fun

I’ve been backpacking extensively since 2009—covered nearly 30 countries and almost every corner of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, with a few short hops to Maharashtra and Delhi. On the surface, travel seems like a whole lot of fun: new places, cozy hotels, sightseeing, sampling local food, meeting interesting people. And yes, of course, youContinue reading “Why Travelling Is About Learning More Than Fun”

God, Government, and the Great Indian Irony

In India, we make more demands from God than we do from the government. We ask God for jobs, money, marriage, visas, promotions, children, marks, and sometimes even cricket wins. We light lamps, break coconuts, donate coins, offer our hair, and chant elaborate mantras — all in the hope that the Almighty will answer ourContinue reading “God, Government, and the Great Indian Irony”

No Religion Exists Outside the Realm of Power

The Dalai Lama may suggest that his next incarnation could emerge outside of China. In response, China may assert that any future Dalai Lama must be approved by the Chinese government. This tug-of-war appears ideological, even spiritual—but at its heart lies an old truth we often forget: No religion or religious leader has ever trulyContinue reading “No Religion Exists Outside the Realm of Power”

If a Country Is Like Your Parents… Then Let’s Talk About That

We often hear this analogy thrown around, especially in emotionally charged conversations: “A country is like your parents — you should never hate them. If you don’t like it, just leave.” Sounds neat and noble at first. But let’s sit with that for a second. Because if you truly believe a country is like yourContinue reading “If a Country Is Like Your Parents… Then Let’s Talk About That”

What My Karate Teacher Taught Me

I learnt karate during my college days—three long, intense years. I trained hard, practicing all my katas under the blazing sun on cement concrete. I hardened my knuckles doing push-ups on it. Every day, I strengthened myself with 100 punches and 50 double punches. I could handle the nunchaku and even do a full split.Continue reading “What My Karate Teacher Taught Me”

Enjoy the Roller Coaster Ride

If there’s anything I’ve spent more time on than reading spiritual literature, meditating, or practicing astrology, it has to be ornamental fish and photography. My love for ornamental fish goes all the way back to 3rd grade—1982. And photography? That started in 1994, the moment I saw an SLR camera in a friend’s hand. TheseContinue reading “Enjoy the Roller Coaster Ride”

Why I Don’t Visit Malls on Weekends or Temples on Auspicious Days

For the last 22 years, I’ve made it a strict personal rule: No malls on weekends. No temples on Tuesdays, Fridays, or festival days. Not because I hate shopping or have a problem with God. I have a problem with Indians in crowds. It’s fascinating—and frustrating—how a country with a population of 1.4 billion still hasn’tContinue reading “Why I Don’t Visit Malls on Weekends or Temples on Auspicious Days”

The Three Phases of Life and the Divine Choice of Suffering

Life unfolds in three inevitable phases — the beginning, the middle, and the end. No matter how fortunate, talented, or protected a human being may be, at least one of these phases will carry the weight of suffering. That is a universal law, not a personal punishment. Yet, many confuse struggles with suffering. Struggles are self-interpreted obstacles — exams, heartbreaks,Continue reading “The Three Phases of Life and the Divine Choice of Suffering”