In his Publisher’s Desk editorial, Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami returns to the global trend of SBNRs, those who are Spiritual But Not Religious. He offers these seeking souls five suggestions for enhancing their spiritual habits and goals in life, all taken from the Hindu “banquet of choices.” Find out what he says…
Our 16-page Insight section is an amazing tribute to the Narmada River, one of India’s holiest and most ancient waterways. Follow photographer Hari Mahidhar (this man has talent) and writer Vithal Nadkarni as they trek the 804 miles through Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat to the sea. Even if you don’t read a single word, the photos are a rich tale in themselves.
Our feature story takes you to South Africa for a rare look into the history and current life of Hindus in Benoni. We started the research after hearing about the 52-foot-tall Siva/Shakti statue that was recently completed, but the story behind the story took center stage, leading to this detailed glimpse into the modern-day lives of Hindus in South Africa.
Many will wonder how an astronaut ended up on the cover of Hinduism Today. We certainly didn’t see it coming. But the story “Samadhi in Space” is a fascinating one, told by the biographer of NASA astronaut Edgar Mitchell, whose consciousness was transformed as he hurtled back toward the Earth after a moon landing in 1971. Find out how space brought him into a state of higher awareness that changed every atom of his being and every department of his life.
Italy is surprising active, Hindu-wise. Our correspondent Lavina Melwani went there to report on the dispersion of Hindus throughout this nation, normally thought of as only Catholic. She found Hindus in every city, almost literally on every corner. Her unlikely encounters and insights are a fun read.
One Indian woman voices aloud what many feel in the silence of their hearts: that it is not right to deny Hindus entry to our temples because of the color of their eyes or their skin. She calls it what it is: racism. And she calls for temples everywhere to realize what is happening as Hindus arise in every nation and to reconsider their medieval rules.
There’s more: A story about the Houston-based Sewa International’s amazing relief efforts in the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Harvey; a glimpse into the care of infants and new mothers, Indian-style; and a temple festival visit in Suriname. Not to mention the ever-popular Quotes & Quips (yes, others turn there first, too), Global Dharma tales from the diaspora, Dharma tech side and letters. Enjoy!
