Desh-Videsh Magazine - Diwali – Celebrating the triumph of good over evil

Desh-Videsh OCTOBER 2021 - VOLUME 28, ISSUE 10 Diwali - Celebrating the triumph of good over evil Cover

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Sometimes called the Indian Festival of Lights, Diwali is arguably the most important holiday of the year for Hindu, Sikh, and Jain families.

The festival (which is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains) lasts five days in its entirety.

Traditionally, the third day is considered the most important. During this day, families gather to light candles, eat sweets, and place lit lamps in their homes’ front windows.

How to Cultivate Hindu Culture in America

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Namaste, I was recently invited to the HSS Hindu Camp for Children in Bloomington, Illinois where I gave four presentations to the children, along with a few evening talks to the adults that focused on various issues of the

Celebrating Hindu Heritage Month

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Hinduism is not just about idol worship or the temples and scriptures. Hinduism has a rich and long heritage.

It is a philosophy or a way of life that shows the light of humanity and how to attain the stage of detachment from earthly attachments. There is no founder of Hinduism.

Dismantling Global Hindumisia with Hindutva

Please scan the QR code with a barcode-scanning app on your Apple or Android device.

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Earlier this month, a faceless organization, announced a global conference, synonymous with its agenda, ‘Dismantling Global Hindutva’ (DGH).

Hindu Heritage - The Real Amrita

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Happy Diwali! And also, happy Dhanteras! Today, let me talk about one of Hindu festivals, Dhanteras. Not too many Hindus know the real significance of this important Hindu festival.

Bollywood Today

62 Ram Setu - The First Indian Film Co-Produced by Amazon Prime Video - This Hindi film is based on the mythical bridge built by the God Rama to connect the ancient Indian coasts with Sri Lanka.

Books we are reading

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#MODI AGAIN (Why Modi is right for India) An ExCommunist’s Manifesto By Aabhas Maldahiyar Aabhas, a self-professed Marxist voted against BJP and Narendra Modi in 2014.

Desi TV Duniya

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Edito r’s View Dear Readers, The month of October is the beginning of the Hindu festival cycle. But this year, for Hindus living in Florida, it is a time for double celebration: Last Month, Honorable Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced October as Hindu Heritage Month! It is my great pleasure to bring you the October issue of Desh-Videsh with a special feature on ‘Celebrating Hindu Heritage Month.’ I know you must be thinking, ‘Here he goes again.’ Well, you know me too well. Yes, I am really excited about this month’s issue of Desh-Videsh. If you recall, in my last month’s column, I listed several items over which I get excited - and of course, talking about Hinduism is one of them. So, in this month’s issue, we have several articles which talk about various aspects of Hinduism.

First, let me talk about an article, ‘Diwali - Celebrating the triumph of good over evil.’ There are so many articles written on Diwali that talk about the victory of the good. So, what is different about this article? In this article, we are presenting a Western view by a lecturer in philosophy at Texas State University, Dr. Natasha Mikles. I hope you find it interesting.

Next, let me talk about the article on ‘Celebrating Hindu Heritage Month’. When I received an email from the governor’s office about declaring October as Hindu Heritage Month, I posted this good news on some of the social media. It was very interesting to find that the first few comments I got were from Hindus (something I’m inferring from their first and last names), and their comments labeled this good news as ‘fake news.’ Then, I posted the actual email from the governor’s office, including the name of the person from the governor’s office who had sent me the email. Why am I telling you this? I don’t want to be negative about my own people, but I have noticed that far too often, when there is good news, our own people doubt it or want to keep silent about it - but when there is bad news, they seem to be the first to spread it all over social media. In the past, we have covered topics such as Article 370 of the Indian constitution and Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). We received several calls and emails telling us that we were wrong to cover such articles. But we didn’t receive a single call or email telling us, ‘Good article - keep it up!’ Why is that? Why can we not celebrate our successes together or fight bad news together?

I remember somebody telling me that the only time four Hindus will go in one direction is when they are taking the fifth Hindu to a funeral house. What a pity! But to my surprise, recently, I did find one exception. I am sure most of you must have heard about the so-called academic conference on Dismantling Global Hindutva that happened on 9/11 weekend. A few Anti-Hindu, Anti-Modi, AntiBJP, and Anti-RSS people got together and tried blaming Hindus and the PM Modi government for everything wrong that has happened in India over the last 5,000+ years. But the conference failed miserably. Even the panel speakers did not agree with each other. Please read a detailed report by Gargi Shanbhag in her article, ‘Dismantling Global Hindumisia with Hindutva.’

Here’s some good news: Originally, a promotional poster for the aforementioned conference had smugly boasted that it would be ‘cosponsored by 45+ centers or departments at 40+ universities.’ In response, under the leadership of the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), over 950,000 emails were sent to university chairpersons, chancellors, and department heads. The result was good - very good.

All the university heads ordered the conference organizers to remove their university logos. When the conference was announced, there had been about 40 university logos on the website. Within a few days, all the logos disappeared. Well done, HAF! Well done, Hindus!

Let me end my column by talking about a critically important article, ‘How to Cultivate Hindu Culture in America’ by Stephen Knapp, also known as Sri Nandanandana Dasa. It is a timely article. Let me assure you that this is not the last time we will hear about conferences like Dismantling Global Hindutva or other Anti-Hindu movements like ‘Dot (Bindi) Busters’. So, we want to ensure that all Hindus - and especially our children - know about our Hindu religion and culture. So, I urge every Hindu parent to go through this article and try following a few key points that are listed in this and the other articles.

Until then, be safe! Be well!

Raj Shah Managing Editor

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Diwali - Celebrating the triumph of good over evil

By Dr. Natasha Mikles

S

ometimes called the Indian Festival of Lights, Diwali is arguably the most important holiday of the year for Hindu, Sikh, and Jain families.

The festival (which is observed by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains) lasts five days in its entirety. Traditionally, the third day is considered the most important. During this day, families gather to light candles, eat sweets, and place lit lamps in their homes’ front windows.

As a scholar of Asian religions and of popular narratives, I’m interested in Diwali because it demonstrates how ancient tales in epics become part of religious practice.

Popular stories from Hinduism There are many stories around what exactly Diwali commemorates and why it is celebrated.

Among Hindu families, many claim the festival celebrates the defeat of the evil demon king Ravana by Rama – an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu and the hero of India’s Ramayana epic. In the most famous part of this epic tale, Rama’s wife is abducted by the demon Ravana, and Rama (with the assistance of his brother) must journey to the land of Lanka to save her.

A different tradition states that the festival commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Like Rama, Krishna is an incarnation of the god Vishnu, who has come to assist humanity in its time of need.

Stories tell of Krishna’s efforts to rid the world of demons. In this particular story, King Naraka gains extraordinary abilities through a deal with a demon – and becomes intoxicated with power.

According to the boon, he cannot be killed either during the day or at night, inside or outside, by human or by animal, by projectile weapons or by hand weapons, and neither on the ground nor in the sky.

Narakasura, as he is now called, destroys the kingdoms around him – and eventually plans to assault even the heavens. Krishna appears and uses his divine powers to neutralize Narakasura’s weapons; eventually beheading him with a multipronged discus.

In response to Hiranyakshipu’s terrorizing of the heavens and the earth, Vishnu then incarnates as the lion-headed god Narasimha to kill the demon. He kills him at dusk, on the doorstep of his house, as a

A Jain sculpture showing Mahavira in Madurai, Tamilnadu, India.

Francis Harry Roy S. via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA Sikhs consider Diwali a commemoration of the release of Guru Hargobind, the sixth of 10 spiritual leaders, and 52 other men who were imprisoned by the Mughal Empire that ruled the Indian subcontinent from 1526 to 1857.

After the public execution of his father by the Mughal leaders, Guru Hargobind became increasingly Other traditions passionate about associate the forming an festival with independent the birth of Sikh homeland the goddess through Lakshmi and military action her marriage to if necessary. He Vishnu. In the was eventually Hindu tradition, jailed by the Lakshmi is Mughal Emperor worshipped as Jahangir, but the goddess of was released wealth, while two years later Vishnu is seen as on the day of the preserver of Diwali. humanity.

Popular legend While there states that when are many stories he was freed, of Lakshmi’s Guru Hargobind birth, the most tricked the Lord Vishnu and his consort goddess, Lakshmi. prevalent is that Mughal emperor she appeared Bikashrd via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA into allowing during the him to bring out churning of the as many men as could hold onto the divine ocean of milk from which the chimeric lion with claws, as he lies hem of his cloak and, in this way, nectar of immortality came during a on Narasimha’s lap – all conditions fight between the gods and demons. helped release 52 other prisoners that satisfy the elements of the boon.

After appearing, she chooses to who held onto 52 threads coming off marry Vishnu and to assist him in of his garment. working for the benefit of humanity.

In southern India, Hindu families commemorate the defeat of the demon Hiranyakashipu by Narasimha, the lion-headed incarnation of Vishnu. Like many Indian stories, Hiranyakashipu is a demi-god who believes he is immortal after receiving a divine blessing (from the Hindu creator-god Brahma) that lists the conditions for his death.

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Stories from other religions

Origins of Diwali

The Diwali tradition is celebrated

by Jains and Sikhs as well, who have their own interpretations of the festival. For Jains, Diwali celebrates the nirvana, or enlightenment, of Mahavira, the 24th spiritual teacher of the Jain path and the contemporary tradition’s founder.

for why Diwali is celebrated, and the multiplicity of questions regarding the festival’s exact origins, may have one potential answer: that the narrative of the origins is an afterthought to rituals.

The multiplicity of interpretations

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Traditionally, the third day is considered the most important. During this day, families gather to light candles, eat sweets, and place lit lamps in their homes’ front windows.

This problem is illustrated in a well-known episode of the sitcom “The Office,” where the Dunder Mifflin team attends a Diwali celebration at a local Hindu temple.

Before they go, they ask Kelly – the Hindu office worker who is playing hostess – to explain the origins of the festival.

She demurs, stating “I don’t know; it’s really old, I think,” before excitedly discussing the beautiful clothes everyone wears; the dancing; and the food. Mindy Kaling, who plays Kelly and wrote the episode, explained that she based Kelly’s cluelessness on her own, noting that – despite identifying as Hindu – she had to do significant research into her own

religious tradition in order to write the episode.

humans and other beings, or about the afterlife and the dead.”

In other words, while she was aware of and was excited about the rituals, the narrative explanation was secondary to joining with her community in celebration.

Perhaps these diverse origin stories of Diwali point to a shared argument that Indian culture is making about the world: that good – whether as one of the many avatars of Lord Vishnu, an enlightened Jain prince, or an imprisoned guru – will necessarily triumph over the evils of demons, injustice, and ignorance.

But this does not mean that narrative may be inconsequential.

It is important to think about what these multiple narratives about Diwali’s origins may be able to tell us about Indian culture.

Asian religions scholar Robert Ford Campany suggests that narratives entail a subtle form of argument that “reveal, argue, or assume something significant about the world, about spirits, about relations between

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Certainly, that’s an argument worth celebrating – especially in the chaotic times we live in today.

About the Author Dr. Natasha Mikles is a lecturer in Philosophy at Texas State U n i v e r s i t y, where she t e a c h e s classes in Asian Religions and World Religions. Her research examines the intersection of popular literature and religious traditions.

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One thing I have witnessed is that 25+ years ago, when Indians were coming to America, they came to concentrate on their careers, not their culture. Yet, many of them have now turned back to their culture and have become better Hindus than if they might have been had they stayed in India. Some may have realized that the American dream is not all it’s cracked up to be. Or, more simply, some have returned to their roots in order to feel more complete and fulfilled.

Some may feel that it is better to still maintain a strong connection with their Vedic traditions. It may also be because they want their children to be brought up in the culture of their homeland. So, many of them have now reconnected with the spiritual customs and traditions of Vedic India.

However, a problem that many Indian Hindu families are facing is that many of their children growing up in the West are losing interest in their cultural heritage. That may partly be because their parents don’t show enough interest, this resulting in a less-than-ideal impression of the value of Hindu culture being passed on to their children. But, it is also encouraging to see that those children who do take an interest are often becoming more dedicated Hindus than their own parents!

Yet, we can see that this is often a matter of association, who the children pick as friends and how they learn about what Vedic culture or Sanatana-dharma really is. Therefore, the children have to be guided by proper training, proper association, and proper observance of Vedic traditions. This is also part of forming the proper samskaras in the minds of the children. And isn’t this what we are meant to do anyways?

my website (https://www.stephenknapp.com/) . So, we need to know how to utilize this freedom that we have.

Secondly, we need to know that America is a prime location where we can work together for cultivating as well as protecting and preserving the Vedic tradition. But we need to base this cooperation beyond the considerations of caste or ethnic differences, those labels of the body.

We may call ourselves Hindus, and then Indians; but how many times do you call yourselves Gujarati Hindus, or Bengali, or Marathi, or Tamil Hindus, and so on? Such temporary distinctions of the body are taught in the Vedic texts to be but part of the illusion. And we should not want to remain in such illusions; such maya.

The whole basis of the Vedic spiritual process is to raise ourselves out of such illusions and recognize our higher spiritual potential as spiritual beings.

We are actually the spirit soul within whatever kind of body we may have.

America can be the best place for this to happen.

Yet, this is one of the problems that we see in India: There are so many groups that have similar goals and interests for the benefits of the culture and country, but there are so many

differences between these groups based on superficialities of the body that they cannot unite and become a strong federation; a powerful organization that can determine its own fate or the future of the country.

If anything, so many associations in India still fight with one another and, thus, weaken each other to the point of becoming incapable of performing any worthwhile actions that will make a real difference for the unity and future of India and its culture.

This is the same sort of weakness shown during the past 1000 years when invaders came into India.

Although sometimes few in numbers, they took over parts of the country without much resistance. This was due to a lack of unity amongst the princely states. It was their inability to support each other or to come to one another’s aid that allowed for their defense system to become so poor that in the end, they could not repel their invaders. So we have to ask ourselves, are we going to continue the same pattern? Are we going to sit back and criticize others and what they have done and point out what they should have done - while we do nothing? If we do, then there is no doubt that we are already finished.

It is only a matter of time before we and the Vedic system will become so reduced that it will fade from the

One thing that we should realize, while we live and grow in America, is that the way things are going in India, we practically have more freedom to practice the Vedic culture and its traditions in America than we do back in India. I could certainly elaborate on that point, but I have already done so in other articles that you can read on

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OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

followers, and friends on the path of the Vedic Dharma. We can become encouraged by coming together and associating in this way, and seeing the positive effects of the tradition on each other. Then, we must cooperate and work together to assist ourselves and our friends along this path.

There are many ways (of which I will mention only a few here) in which we can do this.

SECOND

world, like other cultures that have been reduced to being mere museum pieces. We have to rise above that.

Some of you will say that I’m being overly dramatic and that the Sanatana-dharma is eternal, so that will never happen. In response to that, I will only ask: Haven’t you honestly read the Bhagavad-gita? Haven’t you read one of the reasons why Lord Krishna appeared in this world? It was to revive the Vedic traditions and its teachings, which had become lost - faded from what it once was. So, are we going to allow that to happen? Are we going to simply wait for someone else to take up the reins to lead us, to protect and preserve the culture, or to bring it back to its former glory the way it used to be?

So, as American Hindus, we should first recognize ourselves as spiritual beings, followers of the Sanatanadharma. Only after that should we recognize each other as Indians, or as being connected with India. We must first see ourselves as spiritual beings, and then see everyone else in the same light - the light of spiritual knowledge. Then, we can come together and cooperate in real unity; real concern for protecting and preserving the Vedic Dharma - not only for ourselves, but for our families, our children, and for the many generations to come.

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Even my own spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, once asked us: What is the use of being Americans if you cannot do something significant?

Let us make sure that the Vedic tradition and its spiritual knowledge is not an eternal yet hidden philosophy that has been forgotten or difficult to attain and utilize. Let us make sure that it remains a guiding light for everyone, all over the world, and that it remains accessible for those who seek deep spiritual knowledge, over and above mere pious religion. That is the way it is meant to be. I have often said that Vedic culture is the last bastion of deep spiritual truth. If we lose that, then all of humanity is in for a very dark future.

However, as Americans of Indian descent and followers of Vedic culture, we must also never forget that India is the homeland of our Vedic tradition - and that that is what it must always remain. We must protect that as well. But how can we use our freedoms here in America to do that? What do we do?

AN EIGHT-POINT ACTION PLAN FIRST As I mentioned, we need to respect each other as spiritual beings,

We utilize our freedom to assemble and rejoice in the Vedic festivals and celebrations that we can observe.

This makes way for the joys of life.

It also creates many samskaras of these happy times in the minds of our children. These memories will last for many years and will propel them to do the same with their children. This is love. This is what we want - love for God and love for each other as parts of God.

THIRD The Indian community in America is one of the wealthiest. According to the Vedic Dharma, such wealth is a tool to either help spiritualize your life, or build a crown on your head - the weight of which will only drag you down into darker realms in the next life if you are a miser. Also, there is nothing more beneficial than to help secure the spiritual progress of others, whoever they may be. We may start with our own families; but when we contribute to the construction of new temples, and to the maintenance of listing temples and to the programs and festivals held at such temples, this is certainly the most beneficial use of our money and our earnings.

And when used in this way, it purifies the time we spent in earning it, and turns our occupation into karma and bhakti yoga. Furthermore, you then share in the good fortune of the spiritual progress made by others through your contributions.

It is similar to a network marketing program where the more people you sign up under you and help them be

OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

successful, the more you also earn.

But these earnings are spiritual, so this goes into your spiritual bank account. Thus, the more people who participate in any programs you arrange or support (such as those at a temple), the more spiritual credit or punya you get for the spiritual progress they make. Moreover, this can go on for generations, long after you have left this world, depending on what it is that you arrange or establish. Is there a better way to leave your mark in this world than in benefiting others as well as yourself in such a way? And if you cannot start or do your own projects, at least support those people who are already working in this way. This is far better than dying with large bank accounts that you cannot take with you into the next realm.

These days, we can see Indians in America of all status who do anything and spend all kinds of money so their children can go to the most prestigious or most costly universities available. It is almost like a competition as to who can boast the most about what colleges their children are going to. And what happens? Much of the time, their children become wealthy materialists with little or no interest in the culture or in following the Vedic Dharma.

They earn lots of money, only to spend lots of money on temporary, bodily pursuits. But why not? This is the way they were pushed by their own parents, so what else can we expect?

Or, people spend lavish amounts of money on weddings. It is a grand festival; but within a few days, it’s all over. And what has the money really done, other than provide something more to boast about? Is this the best we can do? I don’t think so. Why not be a little more moderate and spend more money for the purpose of really benefiting others, including future generations, by giving for the preservation of the Dharma?

FOURTH Educating yourselves and the youth in the Vedic customs and

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its philosophy is of extreme importance. The number one reason why Hindus convert to other religions is not because the other faiths are so much more organized and well funded, though this may sometimes be a part of it. The main reason is primarily that Hindus are not educated enough in their own traditions and Vedic philosophy.

They may go to the temple and do pujas, but they may not even know the significance of them, or the spiritual knowledge that is a part of the Vedic tradition, or the depth of this spiritual philosophy. Thus, it is important that everyone is educated properly. This can be done by holding regular group classes and discussions in the temple. And if this is not so easy, I have seen

done in ways to share our culture with other non-Hindus who are interested, such as inviting them to a festival, to the temple and showing them around, or just having a lunch with them at the local Indian restaurant and sharing the stories of your own life on how your culture has had positive effects on you. This is easy, there is nothing hard about it. And if you don’t know what to say, then give them a brochure, or a booklet or book that explains the basics of the philosophy so they can start to understand it or look more deeply into it. (And I’ve got plenty of free brochures or booklets on my website that I can send you if you need them.) Basically, whether you like this idea or not, we must learn to promote the values of the Vedic tradition in order to help preserve and protect it, and so others

where people get together on a weekly basis to read, comment on and discuss such sacred texts as the Bhagavad-gita among themselves.

This is extremely important so that people, and especially the youth, understand their own culture more deeply and can perceive the profound nature of it. I have already written an action plan with a list of points on how to help make the temples more effective

can appreciate it by seeing what it has to offer. This is a reality of these times, and the need for people to understand us. No matter what other religions you see, they all engage in strong promotion in order for people to understand them, or to attract other people to support or be a part of them. Thus, without proper promotion of Vedic culture, the cultivation of it and the protection and preservation of it remains incomplete.

If we can present it properly, in a way in which it makes sense to the people, then they will understand it. It’s all in the presentation.

FIFTH We may do all of the above, but we also must realize that all we do to preserve and protect the Dharma can not be fully accomplished without its promotion. Yes, we have to promote the good and the depth of this Vedic culture. Such promotion may start amongst other Hindus, or within our family, Indian community, etc. Or it may also be

Such promotion may also include advertising the activities at the local temple, or about the festivals that are being held, or that all in the community are welcome to attend.

Such promotion may also involve preparing publications, websites, radio programs, and other ways that help people to get to know about the unique and profound characteristics of the Vedic culture.

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You never know what might happen through such endeavors. You may find others, such as westerners, who want to participate, or even help support the temple, festivals or projects.

To give an example, I was giving a presentation to around 120 people of an interfaith group at the Cincinnati Hindu temple. It was a presentation on how the Divine appears in Vedic art and the various forms and deities of God. Later, as the people were given a tour of the temple and further explanations of the temple deities, so many people came up to me to express how much they liked the presentation and slideshow. But they also would say that though they have been Catholics, or practicing Jews for years, they have never felt a strong connection to their religion. But they

were really attracted and felt a kinship with what they were experiencing at the Hindu temple that evening. So, we encouraged them to visit more often and read about the Vedic traditions to learn more about it. This proves that you never know what can happen, and that people from all walks of life can feel attracted. We need to realize how special this spiritual culture is and not be afraid to share it with others.

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SIXTH We must object to all prejudice against Vedic culture and Hinduism in the media. Why are people so easy going about writing and publishing any damn criticism about India and Hindus and Hinduism? Because they know that in most cases, no one and nothing will be done about it. No one will stand up against them. This attitude must change. In America, the free press is for everyone. In other words, you can also write into the editor of any publication to object to something you disagree with.

However, the point to remember is that the more who do that, the more effective it is. And this is where group cooperation becomes very important and influential. If someone denigrates a Hindu or Hinduism, it is

not so difficult to write a letter and demand an apology. But if that same letter is circulated to a large group, along with the email or address of the editor, and many people start signing it and sending it in, it will flood the editor’s office or email address and certainly get noticed. In today’s world of communication, a program of protest could be put together and accomplished within a few days.

A standard letter could be posted on a website in which blanks are there in the form to fill in for whatever incident is to be described, and then used to send to the editor, writer, publisher, or whoever. This makes it very easy, and less likely that such incidents will go without protest. We need to do things in this way.

We also need to process lawsuits as well. Utilizing part of our money in defense of Vedic Dharma in lawsuits against slander or other crimes against Vedic culture and those who follow it will also help make sure that people become more cautious about committing such acts again. These and other methods need to be taken into consideration to make sure that people and the media realize that Hindus are a force to be reckoned with. American Hindus must clearly understand that they cannot remain silent or wonder who will be the fodder for the next racist policeman or person who wants to take their anger out on them. For too long, Hindus have not been organized and have remained apathetic to what has gone on around them or to them. This needs to change.

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SEVEN

EIGHT

This leads to point number seven, in which American Hindus must become politically active. This does not simply mean that you vote, or that you attend fundraisers for your favorite candidate to have a photo with them that you can hang on your wall. How has that helped anything?

We need to get more serious.

American Hindus can also volunteer in large numbers in political campaigns to show the force that we can have, that politicians realize we are a great force that they will want on their side.

But we should also vote as a block.

We should look seriously at the issues any candidate is addressing, and then vote for the person who will be best for the interests of American Hindus and relations between the U.S. and India.

The last point is dealing with interfaith marriages.

This is happening on an increasing level. As they say, love is often blind, keeping you from seeing the realities that will become apparent down the road.

But statistics have shown that most interfaith marriages dissolve, ending with divorce, especially when the issue of children comes up and the decision has to be made regarding how they are going to be raised, and

Presently, there are also more Indians in America that have been voted into various offices than ever before. Unfortunately, some are converted Christians. But the point is that it is not so difficult to get started. American Hindus can also run for school boards, city councils, for mayor, and on up to state governor.

We should see that as not merely a chance to get into office, but a chance to show the influence of Vedic thought and ideas on the issues of the day, and a chance to show the beauty of the Vedic culture. I had a friend who ran for office in Hawaii. He had no money, no influence, but as he appeared on television shows, and in debates, he gained influence and support. He did not win the election, but everyone knew of his connection with Vedic culture and people admired him. If he had continued to run for office in the following elections, he may have won. In other words, it is all positive.

We simply have to step out and do it. And if people do take notice, or if we do win, it can be a major step in preserving, protecting and promoting the beauty of Vedic culture, which can also be appreciated and utilized by Americans themselves. Then instead of you wanting to get in a photo with your favorite politician, people will want their photo with you.

what religion they will follow. The fact is that most Hindu girls who marry outside the Hindu fold either convert or allow their spouse to have control over the children in regard to their faith. And Hindu boys often do the same thing. Therefore, whenever an interfaith marriage occurs, much of the time you can figure that by the next generation or two, that family will no longer be following Vedic culture.

They will be something else, which contributes to what may be viewed as

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the slow demise of the Vedic tradition.

That is why the fourth point about educating yourselves, your children and giving them the right association and friendship through temples and youth or Dharmic camps can be so helpful for them to realize the depth of what the Vedic philosophy has to offer, and to keep them in the Hindu fold. This can help pave the way for them to realize the importance of this to their future, their children, and the future generations of their family if they remain in the Dharmic fold by marrying another Hindu, or someone who wants to follow it.

These are all powerful ways in which the community of American Hindus can work together to cultivate and benefit from the oldest living, spiritual tradition on earth, as well as preserve and protect the Vedic tradition. Let us all help each other do this.

Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah.

Jai Sri Krishna

About the Author S t e p h e n Knapp grew up in a Christian family, during which time he seriously studied the Bible to understand its teachings.

In his late teenage years, however, he sought answers to questions not easily explained in Christian theology. So, he began to search through other religions and philosophies from around the world and started to find the answers for which he was looking.

He also studied a variety of occult sciences, ancient mythology, mysticism, yoga, and the spiritual teachings of the East. Finally, after his first reading of the Bhagavadgita, the classic summary of Vedic

philosophy known as The Song of God, he felt he had found the last piece of the puzzle he had been putting together through all of his research..

Rather than pursuing his research in an academic atmosphere at a university, Stephen directly engaged in the spiritual disciplines that have been recommended for hundreds of years. He continued his study of Vedic knowledge and spiritual practice under the guidance of a spiritual master, His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Through this process he was given the spiritual name of Sri Nandanandana dasa and became initiated into the genuine and authorized spiritual line of the Brahma-Madhava-Gaudiya sampradaya.

An introduction to his research, books, writing and projects can be found at his website: www.stephen-knapp.com

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H

induism is not just about idol worship or the temples and scriptures. Hinduism has a rich and long heritage. It is a philosophy or a way of life that shows the light of humanity and how to attain the stage of detachment from earthly attachments. There is no founder of Hinduism. Rather, it is based on certain principles and beliefs that guide humankind even today.

Hinduism embraces the worship of natural forces like air, fire, water, earth, and the universe - forces that later took the form of idols. There may be numerous rites and rituals of Hinduism, but all are united in a common belief; a common heritage that unites humankind with the ultimate bond of love and tolerance.

Origin & History of Hinduism Hinduism, the Sanatan Dharma (meaning ‘The Eternal Path’), has

no specific date of origin. However, according to historians and scholars, the origin of Hinduism can be dated back to a period between 2300 B.C. and 1500 B.C. in the Indus Valley Civilization. It is believed that the religion is related to the migration of the Aryans to the Indus Valley around 1500 B.C. The synthesis of the Aryan culture and the native Dravidian culture is a major factor in the history of Hinduism. That is why Hinduism is regarded as one of the oldest religions in the world.

The Vedas, the Upanishads, the epics, and the rich Sanskrit scriptures depict the glorious traditions of Hinduism and its evolution through time. The historical background and the development of Hinduism have shown its basic values as being a thought process that elevates its followers to an elevated state of mind - a mind that is respectful and peaceful; a soul that is pure and composed.

Philosophy & Beliefs of Hinduism Hinduism is more a philosophy than a religion. It stresses the importance of the Universal Creator or the Brahman and the presence of the Creator in the self or the Atman.

Hindu philosophy also believes in the principles of Karma related to actions that can be good or bad. The cycle of Karma produces good or bad results according to the actions one takes.

Hinduism believes in the power of love for, and devotion to, one and all. The concept of ‘Vasudhaiva kutumbakam’, meaning ‘The whole world is a family’, is the reflection of a profound belief in a single Creator for all of humanity, and pure love for embracing all of humankind as belonging to a single family. Despite the diversities embraced by Hinduism, there is a strong bond of unity that makes Hindu beliefs unique.

The philosophy and belief of Hinduism have intense faith and confidence in the power of universal peace. The Shanti mantra of ‘Sarvesham svastir bhavatu’ (May there be well-being for all) prays for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of all. Hindus believe in the presence of the Almighty in every living thing, including plants and animals. The ritual of Namaste, the practice of bowing with hands folded in prayer, is not just simply a gesture but rather represents the belief in the existence of divinity in everyone (even one’s enemies).

Hinduism’s Contributions to the World Based on an insightful philosophy and integral studies, Hinduism has always been based on an eminently logical, cognitive foundation. That is the reason for the rich contribution of Hinduism to the world. Hindu researchers and learners have given the world some of the treasures that

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ascribes a lot of value and importance to this branch of treatment. Millions of people today rely on the power of Ayurveda for treating even the severest of diseases.

Surgery: It is a great achievement of Hindu doctors that the first-everrecorded surgery was performed by them as early as 600 BC. It was Sushruta, regarded as the Father of Surgery, who did the first-everrecorded surgery in the world. The Sushruta Samhita contains detailed text about surgery.

are beloved and appreciated even in this age of advanced science and technology.

the power of yoga and meditation for fighting against diseases both physical and psychological in nature.

Mathematics: The ancient Hindu mathematicians can truly be called geniuses, as they discovered many basic mathematical concepts. For instance, they were the first to discover the concept of zero, which became the symbol for nothingness - as well as becoming an additional identity in and of its own right. The concepts of trigonometry (including the value of pi) were born from the studies of Hindu scholars! Not only that, but the decimal and metric systems and quadratic equations were also the brainchildren of Hindu mathematicians.

The Sanskrit Language: The oldest organized language, Sanskrit, is another valuable contribution of Hinduism to the global circle of research and studies. This Indo-Aryan language created the earliest records of human civilization - records like the Vedas, the Upanishads, and epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. These were not merely religious texts or books of rituals.

They reflect the time, socio-political conditions, and the life of the people in their vivid descriptions. Sanskrit is the classical language that proves the rich academic and literary genius of Hindu scholars who work with that language.

Yoga and Meditation: The cardinal principles of fitness and well-being for today’s hectic and stressful lifestyle - the practices of yoga and meditation - were the results of the austere spiritual practices of the Hindu Yogis. What they practised as a means to cleanse the mind and keep the body resilient became the fitness mantra of generations through the ages. Meditation, or the practice of structured concentration, was part and parcel of yoga; it too became a powerful medium of physical and mental peace. People around the globe today have immense faith in

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Ayurveda: Among many ‘firsts’, credit for the first holistic health treatment of the body and mind, the ‘Ayurveda’, goes to the Hindu scientists around 3000 years ago. The Charaka Samhita, a Sanskrit text on the details of Ayurvedic treatment, gives an account of the methods of treatment followed. Ayurveda largely depended on herbs for the cure of diseases; and emphasized the importance of the body’s natural immune system.

The value of Ayurveda is time tested; and contemporary medical science

Astronomy: The Hindu astronomers were trendsetters in various core concepts of astronomy like the solar system, the planets, and the rotation and revolution of the planets. Even the calculation of 365 days in a year was done by them based on the revolution of the Earth.

The Shulba Sutras and the Vedanga Jyotisha are the earliest Sanskrit texts on astronomy, dating back to 500 A.D.

Hindu Festivals and their Messages There are so many Hindu festivals that are celebrated around the year.

Each festival is dedicated to a form of power or a deity, and celebrations are multifarious in nature. Diwali lights up the festive mood with lighted diyas, while in Dussehra the idol of Ravana - the demon king of the Ramayana epic - is burnt as a symbol of the defeat of evil and the prevalence of valour. Most of the Hindu festivals carry the message of the victory of right over wrong and good over evil forces. Hindu festivals are celebrated as a prayer to the different aspects of the Almighty. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with prayers to Lord Ganesha who removes all hindrances and obstacles in life. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped for wealth and prosperity, and Saraswati for knowledge and wisdom. Lord Rama shows the right path, Lord Krishna is the destroyer of evils, and Lord Shiva

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is the symbol of time and change.

Navratri and Durga Puja celebrate the victory of Devi Durga, the goddess who comes to relieve misery.

Hindu festivals are celebrated with various rituals in different regions.

But the essence of most of the festivals lies in the destruction of evil forces, and the triumph of virtue and of taking the right path.

Hindu Scriptures The Hindu scriptures are rich philosophical teachings passed on from one generation to the next.

There are two categories of Hindu scriptures: Shruti (meaning ‘heard’) and Smriti (meaning ‘remembering’ or ‘memorizing’).

The main Hindu scriptures falling in the category of Shruti are: The Vedas: The literal meaning of ‘Veda’ is ‘knowledge’. It is the oldest Hindu scripture that dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization. It is believed that the Vedas were passed on by the Aryans. There are four parts of the Vedas, namely the Rig Veda, the Yajur Veda, the Sama Veda, and the Atharva Veda. They deal with religious practices and rituals along with worship and meditation.

The Upanishads: Based on the Vedic traditions, the Upanishads deal with self-realization and spirituality.

Hindu scriptures that are classified as Smriti include the Upavedas, the Vedangas, the Puranas, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, the Bhagavad Gita, the Dharma Shastras, the Darshan Shastras, etc. Among these, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are among the most famous epics of Hinduism. The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, is highly regarded as a great philosophical teaching on the truth of life that was imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjuna.

The Bhagavad Gita remains relevant to contemporary life and is quoted even today.

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Music, Art, and Dance in Hinduism Music and dance are an intrinsic part of Hinduism, not only as an art form but also as an expression of devotion and prayer to the Almighty.

Hindu gods like Shiva and Krishna were dancers. Following this, dance became an important part of Hindu worship, where dance performances were dedicated to the deity. Dance forms like Bharatanatyam or Odissi or the folk dances of Garba or Raas are all dedicated to God.

Hindu tradition considers the creativity of dance forms as God’s blessings, and most of them are dedicated to God. Music forms like Bhajans or Kirtans are also devotional songs that depict the kindness and greatness of God. This is true about instrumental music too. Hindus sincerely believe that dance or music gives heavenly pleasure and brings them closer to God. Hinduism has a profound effect on art and architecture. The wonderful paintings of the God and Goddesses, their divine expression of hope,

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blessings, and power coupled together are symbols of creative excellence.

They create a marvellous feeling of joy and fulfilment. The architecture of Hindu temples, their outstanding designs with intricate artwork, are nothing but artistic genius. Apart from devotion, it creates a feeling of appreciation that transcends any religious belief.

Hindu sculpture has some characteristic features of holy symbols. It includes the Om, an appeal to the divine consciousness; the swastika, a symbol of good fortune; and the lotus flower, which symbolizes beauty, prosperity, and purity.

An attractive aspect of Hinduism is its assimilation of various teachings, forms of prayers, and values and principles. It may be termed as a religion, but it does not preach; neither does it impose any restrictions or create the threat of punishment. All it teaches is to accept everyone with open hands and pray

“We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made.”

- Albert Einstein

for the welfare of humankind as a whole. Hinduism may have different paths or traditions in different parts of the country or continent, but the basic values remain the same. It is these values of united humanity and human characteristics that make Hinduism a part of life, a life that is above the mean and isolated world of selfishness and cruelty. Hinduism teaches tolerance and forgiveness, and its practice brings a divine feeling of peace and tranquillity.

Dismantling Global Hindumisia with Hindutva

by Gargi Shanbhag

E

arlier this month, a faceless organization announced a global virtual conference (to be held Sep. 10-12) synonymous with its self-professed agenda: ‘Dismantling Global Hindutva’ (DGH). When I read what they’re all about and what this conference intended to do, I wasn’t shocked, to say the least. Their exact words will make you giggle, if not laugh: This rise of militant Hindu groups in India and the corresponding escalation of violence against religious minorities and other marginalized communities are well documented, including by global media.

The interesting part is breaking this dense narrative down.

‘Rise of militant Hindu groups’ – if one exists at all? Some politically and

52

ideologically charged non-rightist groups often label one of India’s oldest nationalist organizations, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), as a militant group. Point of fact: It is not. There are innumerable instances of cases where RSS has contributed to humanitarian aid; etc.

(Comparatively, here in the USA, the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) assertively advocates for Hindu American rights.)

Furthermore, non-rightist groups have taken to describing assertive Hindus (Hindus who are striving to protect their faith

from being insinuated against and maligned) as ‘Bhakts’/’Sanghis’.

‘Escalation of violence against religious minorities’ – in Pakistan? Or, the escalation of violence against the religious majority in India? Starting with…

1. The Kashmir Pandits’ genocide in 1990; 2. The Godhra train blast; 3. Several Hindu girls being raped and murdered when they refuse to convert to Islam; 4. The mob lynching of two Hindu sadhus in Maharashtra; 5. A deadly attack on yet another Hindu monk – Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati – in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh; 6. Atrocities against minority Hindus in the Muslim-majority Mewat district of Haryana; and

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7. The destruction of nine temples in Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu’s second-largest city) and other places.

In India, where Hindus are a majority, they constantly get beaten up. Their temples are broken; their idols are stolen. And, they are always made to feel guilty for now-outof-practice systems like sati; caste; untouchability; etc. Similarly, in the USA, Hindu-Americans – which form a significant percentage of the country’s minority population – are constantly subjected to hate crimes.

In fact, such crimes have been on the rise over the past few years. A 2014 poll conducted by the Pew Research Group entitled ‘How Americans Feel About Religious Groups’ showed that Hindu Americans are not treated as warmly as Jews and Catholics are.

Hindus here were given an average rating of 50 on a scale of 100, and an even lower score when ranked by Evangelical Christians. Furthermore, another report stated that at least 3 out of 5 Hindu-American students faced bullying on the grounds of their beliefs.

The Hindu reported 5 to 6 instances of hate crimes against Indian Americans, especially Hindus, in the USA in the year 2017 alone.

Furthermore, the FBI’s Hate Crimes report detailed 12 documented instances and 14 transgressions against Hindus in the United States

(as of its release). This is up from 11 instances in 2017 and 10 incidents in 2016, marking the third year in a row that Hindu Americans have been the subject of escalating violence.

Nevertheless, these 14 instances were out of 7,175 reported hate crime events (of all types) in 2018 (down from 7,175 in 2017).

I wonder if the so-called scholars, activists, and journalists involved in this conference have even the slightest idea that the entire agenda reeks of Hinduphobia. A more apt a term for that would be ‘Hindumisia’ (Greek: misia – hatred). This is nothing less than an imbecile attempt at a smear campaign against one of the oldest civilizations and civilizational states of the world.

What leads to such an outrageous amount of hatred towards Hindus (and towards Hinduism in America) in the first place? Primarily, the West became intimately acquainted with the religions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia through their own Western prism - so much so that the insider view completely disappeared from their narrative. Professor Arvind Sharma, who teaches comparative religion at McGill University, calls this mode of diffusion of information about native religions of the colonies from a colonial perspective as an ‘outsider-to-outsider’ method of information sharing.

Another academic researcher, Rajiv Malhotra, who is from India, coined the term ‘atrocity literature.’ Atrocity literature, according to Malhotra, is a ‘technical phrase referring to research studies developed

by Western perspective with the specific objective of demonstrating that [a] target[ed] non-Western culture is committing atrocities [against] its own people, and hence [that the situation] requires Western intervention.’

It is also interesting to observe how erroneously American textbooks depict Hindus and Hinduism. Let’s narrow our focus down to the cases of Virginia, California, and Texas. In the early 2000s, Hindu Americans banded together to protest the portrayal of their culture in school textbooks. Because of California’s vast population, state-approved textbooks are frequently used in other states, which suggests that modifications to California textbooks have a far wider impact. For example, an Indian Muslim was misinterpreted as a Brahman priest in a photo caption. Elsewhere, ‘Where’s the Beef?’ was a derogatory title used in a segment on Hindu vegetarian ideals. Other passages mocked major individuals from Hindu mythology. It was uncontroversial to address these issues. The Vedic Foundation (VF) and the Hindu Education Foundation (HEF), the Hindu organisations that advocated the amendments, disagreed. The California Board of Education (CBE) was also asked to eliminate or alter other key portions of various passages.

By using misguided terms like ‘Brahmanical patriarchy’, ‘Hindu extremism’, ‘Saffron terror’, and ‘Savarnas’, etc., these shallow-minded panelists prove themselves foolish time and again.

‘Brahmanism,’ for instance, is a term coined by European Indologists in the 19th and early 20th centuries to characterize and define Hinduism as a religion founded by the Brahmin priestly class. While many religious scholars by the mid-1980s

OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

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considered use of the term to be a type of neo-colonialism, some people still use the word and its variations.

Several academics persistently use the phrase without scrutiny – thus supporting a racist, antiSemitic, Eurocentric construction of Hinduism and Hindus while simultaneously denigrating Hindus’ own understandings of their own history, philosophy, and customs.

For instance, consider the English word ‘Hinduism.’ Let’s closely inspect the meaning of its beautiful Sanskrit counterpart, ‘Hindutva’. The suffix ‘-tva’ in ‘Hindutva’ refers to ‘essence’.

Thus, this indigenous term carries a significant (and lovely) meaning: ‘the essence of being a Hindu’.

under an obligation to live up to often unrealistically high stereotypes associated with the phrase. In the same light, the concept proposes a simplistically causal explanation for their successes rather than taking into account other variables like aptitude, competence, or perseverance. It also divides and hurts minorities by pitting them against one another.

The conference also claims: There has also been some useful scholarship, journalism, and community-based activism on the links between Hindutva and racism and caste-ism.

In addition to ‘Brahmanism’, another concept widely used by leftists and liberals in India and abroad is that of the ‘model minority’. Sociologist William Petersen coined this term in a 1966 article titled ‘Success Story: JapaneseAmerican Style’. He went on to frequently use the term in reference to Asians.

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Why is it that when Hindus happen to be the ones to speak of the need for activism, the response is to bring ‘Tukde Tukde Gang’ and ‘Azadi’ sloganeers (and not Hindutvadis, mind you! I wonder why?) to the forefront of the discussion?

Another example – and in this case, I’ll go ahead and quote one of the statements made during the conference itself by one of the speakers, Akansha Mehta (who presents a hostile definition of what constitutes Hindutva):

Useful to whom?

Hence, my title: ‘Dismantling Global Hindumisia’ (hatred of Hindus) with ‘Hindutva’ (Hindu virtues).

Contextually, within various social, political, and educational circles, practicing Hindus in India and abroad must have faced the brunt of this pressure to conform (even if they hadn’t put a label on it). In many ways, the model minority concept can be Hinduphobic and divisive – emphasizing incorporation into the mainstream culture while simultaneously dumbing down significant multicultural distinctions within the community itself.

Moreover, by stressing their overall achievements, the term is also frequently applied to minimize the hardships that the Hindu minority population experiences. Numerous Hindus are negatively affected by the model minority stereotype, as they are made to feel as if they are

right moment – started talking in a plainspoken way about the need for community-based Hindu activism to counter racial, religious, and ethnic hatred against Hindus. Among such a hostile audience, just imagine the apoplectic, outraged uproar that simply mentioning the words ‘Hindu activism’ might have provoked!

I emphasize, without hesitation, that Hindutva is inseparable [ from] Hinduism.

And arguments that Hindutva is not Hinduism are deeply dangerous … and will not lead us to the future we want!

To this, one might respond that just as light is dangerous to the dark, Hinduism’s core virtues are dangerous to lies – because in the end, truth will overcome falsehood and emerge victorious. We want that future!

‘Savarna’ was originally a term used for someone from the same group (i.e., one of the four varnas mentioned in the Hindu dharma).

And what about the links between Hindumisia and racism? Imagine if a secretly pro-Hindu scholar and speaker had deviously infiltrated the conference and – at just the

Things became interesting when the DGH conference, on the one hand, claimed that 1. Hindutva ideology is highly supportive of racialised homophobic violence; while on the other hand, discussing (as something to look out for) that 2. the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of India takes a pro-LGBT stance.

So which is it?

This is a classic case of Hindumisia.

Another aspect of note is that their narrative was filled with unadulterated hatred.

OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

of college-aged children, take note!)

Consider the case of Abhinav Prakash, Youth Wing National President of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP). His 2017 interview as will prove pivotal in this milieu. Abhinav, himself a Dalit and an ex-JNU student, recalled his campus experiences: Being at the heart of the citadel

Members of minority populations face bigotry; racial inequality; and economic, political, and (as the conference itself illustrates) even academic discrimination. For instance, consider how some socalled ‘intellectuals’ use ‘Savarna’ as a racist, caste-ist slur against Hindus. Xenophobic, anti-Semitic, and Eurocentric assumptions about Hinduism and Hindus lie at the basis of this peculiar use of ‘Savarna’ as an epithet. ‘Savarna’ was originally a term used for someone from the same group (i.e., one of the four varnas mentioned in the Hindu dharma).

But egregiously misrepresenting the dharma – and misusing their positions of power – ideologically rigid, racially biased haters pretend that Hindu philosophies have influenced (and have religiously authorized) culturally ingrained biases based on a rigid, totalitarian, pan-Indian power pyramid.

But not only that, propagators of Hindumisia brazenly have the gall to not only blatantly misrepresent Hinduism but then go on to claim that Hindus themselves are responsible for the inequality and discrimination being perpetrated against them!

About that.

of the left-wing in JNU, I was also a witness to the decadence of left-wing politics, its shallowness and sheer intellectual bankruptcy, which revolved around caste and regional hegemony under the garb of ‘progressivism’. Their anarchist view of the society, hostility towards India, and almost genocidal hatred towards Hinduism left me with no choice but to search for an alternative political force in the campus. And ABVP is the only right-wing party – in fact, the only true opposition – in the campus.

Here’s an excerpt from when Abhinav was asked about how his caste identity shaped his thoughts and politics: The Dalit discourse was, and continues to be, heavily dominated by non-Dalits who define the popular perception of our collective aspirations. So, it’s the ivory tower [of] left-wing academia – or [of] demagogues like Kancha Ilaiah or the likes of Arundhati Roy who have a

defining word on what it means to be a Dalit or [on what] Dalits want! The reason [this] is so is not because Dalits cannot represent themselves. But [it is] about those who control the institutions and [the] public sphere.

In other words, it’s about those who control the conversation. So how do we change the conversation?

How do we counter their hatredfilled narrative? There’s only one answer: by embracing Hindutva.

And by that, I mean being a virtuous Hindu. A nobly assertive Hindu; a protectively courageous Hindu. A modern Hindu who wouldn’t tolerate misinformation being spread about his/her faith. As a Hindu, one should at least be aware of what our sacred texts preach, so that these activists cannot and dare not spread hate and deception about Hindu dharma.

There’s this saying from the Mahabharata. In Sanskrit, it reads, ‘Dharmo rakshati rakshitaha.’ It means: Protect your dharma – and you will be protected.

Let’s dismantle global ‘Hindumisia’ (hatred of Hindus) with ‘Hindutva’ (Hindu virtues).

About the Author Gargi Shanbhag is a M.A student at the Department of Geopolitics and International Relations at Manipal Academy of Higher Education.

Her research interest lies in Islamist Terrorism, India’s Internal Security, and Civilizational Perspectives to IR.

For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, please visit deshvidesh.com/Oct2021 or download our Mobile App.

Check that!

Moreover, lest we think that such appalling Hindumisia is limited only to those Western universities that backed this conference, feel free to draw parallels with the hostile climate within India’s own Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). (Activist parents

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Happy Dhanteras and Diwali! Celebrate our Hindu heritage by using the gifted amrita of Ayurvedic medicine and the spiritual science of Yoga to bring light into your home and life!

Hindu Heritage The Real Amrita

By Chahna Tailor Gupta Happy Diwali! And also, happy Dhanteras!

Today, let me talk about one of Hindu festivals, Dhanteras. Not too many Hindus know the real significance of this important Hindu festival.

Dhanteras - also known as Dhanvantari Trayodashi, Dhantrayodashi, or Dhanvantari Jayanti - is just around the corner. Many Hindus celebrate Dhanteras with Lakshmi puja as one of the days of Diwali celebrations. However, this day also marks the day of Samundra Manthan - the churning of the ocean of milk for the nectar of immortality. We all know the famous story of how the devas

and the asuras work together to churn the ocean and that Dhanvantari, the Hindu God of medicine, also an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is birthed from the churning with amrita (the nectar of immortality) in hand. But did you know that Lord Dhanvantari also taught us Ayurveda?

In the origins of Ayurveda, it is said that Lord Dhanvantari is considered as being the physician and surgeon of Hinduism and that he is the one who disseminated ayurvedic practices (especially) to sages, including our great surgeon Acharya Suśrruta (author of the Suśruta Samhita and also known as the father of surgery, plastic surgery, and brain surgery).

Dhanteras is also celebrated as National Ayurveda Day in India to commemorate the gift of medicinal knowledge from Lord Dhanvantari.

The amazing thing about Ayurveda is that it is a complete science. It has eight limbs: internal medicine; surgery; gynecology and pediatrics; rejuvenation therapy; aphrodisiac therapy; toxicology; psychiatry or spiritual healing; and the ear, nose, and throat (ENT). As Acharya Charaka said in the Charaka Samhita, there is a greater importance placed on the prevention of disease than on the treatment of disease. The prevention is achieved through the revamping of one’s lifestyle to work in balance with the seasons of nature. Ayurveda is considered as dharmic medicine it considers the inherent nature of the world and teaches you how to balance yourself by becoming in tune with it.

We cannot touch on Ayurveda without bringing up its spiritual sister science, Yoga. Yoga is considered as being another dharmic science that helps us to purify our body and mind.

During Diwali, we celebrate light - lighting up the goodness in the world; and celebrating knowledge over ignorance, darkness, and evil.

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With Yoga, we bring light by purifying our body and mind through mantra, disciplines, observances, breath, movement, and concentration. As you can see, your body and mind can be purified with spiritual harmony through Yoga and physically through Ayurveda. This helps us achieve selfrealization - the ultimate spiritual goal of Hinduism.

So, Happy Dhanteras and Diwali!

Celebrate our Hindu heritage by using the gifted amrita of Ayurvedic medicine and the spiritual science of Yoga to bring light into your home and life!

About the Author Chahna Tailor, a certified yoga instructor, has a background in occupational therapy and health science & administration.

Chahna deepened her yoga practice by training in Rishikesh, India, where she studied the science behind yoga as a whole. Chahna provides yoga, pranayama, and meditation services through her company Namaskar To You. A volunteer for Ekal Vidyalaya, Chahna also Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine while continuing her self-studies in yoga.

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Bollywood Meets Ragas When: 10/02/2021, 9:00 PM Contact: 832-231-3086 Email: hari_dayal@yahoo.com Host: Society for Indo-American Arts (SIA)

Mother Divine Days Yagyas When: 10/07/2021 Contact: 641-919-2105 Email: bpkendra@gmail.com Host: Bhavana Pujan Kendra Center for Yagya and Jyotish

Email: info@iaccorlando.com Host: Indian American Chamber of Commerce

Navratri When: 10/15/2021, 7:00 PM Where: Lyman High School 865 S Ronald Reagan Blvd, Longwood,32750 Contact: Jiten Patel 407-924-7015 Email: info@gujaratisocietycfl.com Host: Gujarati Society of Central Florida

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Tampa Durga Puja When: 10/15/2021 Where: Indian Cultural Center 5511 Lynn Road, Tampa,33624 Contact: 727-643-3691 Email: soilkotflorida@gmail.com Host: Soilkot

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Great International Mela When: 10/15/2021, 7:25 PM Contact: 833-463-4221 Email: mela@evenuefy.com

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35th Anniversary Dinner Airport Hotel 5445 Forbes Pl, Orlando,32812 Contact: Kannan Srinivasan

Atlanta Metro Sarva Pitru Visarjan Pitru Paksh Mahalaya End When: 10/06/2021, 11:00 AM Where: Sadhana Mandir 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Ste 733, Contact: Acharya Ved P Joshiji 770-310-5944; 770-921-6889 Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com Host: Sadhana Mandir

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Diwali Dinner When: 10/30/2021 , 4:00 PM (EST) Where: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress 1 Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando,32836 Contact: Jiten Patel 407-924-7015 Email: info@gujaratisocietycfl.com Host: Gujarati Society of Central Florida OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Sharadh Navratri When: 10/07/2021, 11:00 AM Where: Sadhana Mandir 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Ste 733, Norcross,30071 Contact: Acharya Ved P Joshiji 770-310-5944; 770-921-6889 Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com Host: Sadhana Mandir

Ganesh and Durga Poojan When: 10/08/2021, 10:00 AM Where: Sadhana Mandir 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Ste 733, Norcross,30071 Contact: Acharya Ved P Joshiji 770-310-5944; 770-921-6889 Email: vedjoshiji@gmail.com Host: Sadhana Mandir

Divali Nagar Celebrations 2021 When: 10/30/2021 , 8:00 AM EST Where: Central Broward Regional Park 3700 NW 11th Pl, Lauderhill,33311 Contact: 954-846-9895 Email: info@divalinagar.us Host: Divali Nagar Inc USA Norcross,30071

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Durga Asthami

Ram Setu - The First Indian Film Co-Produced by Amazon Prime Video

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his Hindi film is based on the mythical bridge built by the God Rama to connect the ancient Indian coasts with Sri Lanka. This bridge was built to rescue his wife Sita who was kidnapped by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.

The film revolves around the story of an archaeologist played by Akshay Kumar and is based on science, history, and mythology.

Jacqueline Fernandez, Nushrratt Bharuccha, and Telugu superstar Satyadev are also part of the cast.

The film is directed by Abhishek Sharma. The creative producer is Chandraprakash Dwivedi. The co-producers are Cape of Good Films, Abundantia Entertainment, and Lyca Productions. It will have a theatrical release followed by its global streaming at Amazon Prime.

The muhurat shot was taken at Ayodhya, the birthplace of Rama, in March 2021. To mark the beginning of this special film, the muhurat was followed by a Puja at Ayodhya. However, due to the pandemic restrictions, the shooting had to be cancelled. However, shooting has resumed now.

The sneak peek was released by Akshay Kumar on his social media handle. He asked for his fans’ opinions regarding it. However, no other teaser has been made public yet.

Vijay Subramanium, Director and Head, Content, Amazon Prime Video India has been very enthusiastic about the venture of co-producing Ram Setu. According to him, Ram Setu is a mythical link that appeals not only to the Indian viewers but also to the global viewers as a whole.

The film is scheduled to be released on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, 2022.

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Satyamev Jayate 2 to Release in Theatres

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his time, it will be John vs John in Satyamev Jayate 2. This sequel to the 2018 film Satyamev Jayate will feature John Abraham in a double role. The film directed by Milap Zaveri includesDivya Khosla Kumar, Anup Soni, and others. The film was supposed to have been released on May 13, 2021. However, the release was postponed due to the second wave of the Coronavirus pandemic.

The film’s poster, released earlier, shows John Abraham in double roles.

The slogan mentioned a fight between two sons of Mother India, Satya and Jay, both portrayed by John. Shot in Lucknow, this film is based on the crime scenes of the city. The poster shows one character, John, in a police uniform. Hence, the film is expected to be a cop drama and a struggle between evil and the right.

The makers of the film are firm in their decision to release the film in theatres. That is why the dates are yet to be decided. A producer of the film Nikkhil Advani said that the film Milap Zaveri needs to be screened in theatres with full capacity. As of now, the theatres have opened with 50% capacity. That is why he wants to wait for the situation to be better and release Satyamev Jayate 2 in theatres with 100% capacity.

Earlier, director Milap Zaveri, too, emphasized people’s safety and said that the preference would be to release the film after the situation is better. The viewers, especially the fans of John Abraham, are eagerly waiting for the release of this film so they can witness another victory of the virtuous.

OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Bell Bottom: The Story of an Undercover Agent Gets Critical Acclaim

Mumbai Diaries 26/11: The Engaging Medical Drama on Amazon Prime Video

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umbai Diaries 26/11, the new web series streaming in Amazon Prime Video, is indeed an engaging medical drama based on the 26/11 terror attacks on Mumbai, a disaster that every Indian remembers with horror and pain. The 8-episode web series is based on the nuances of a government hospital that turns into a battleground between terrorists and doctors.

ell Bottom is a film based on the story of an undercover agent of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) rescuing the passengers of a hijacked plane that landed in Amritsar. Bell Bottom is the code name of the agent, played by Akshay Kumar. Other members of the cast include Vaani Kapoor, Huma Qureshi, and Lara Dutta.

The director of the film is Ranjit Tiwari, and it is produced

by Pooja Entertainment and Emmay Entertainment.

The story of Bell Bottom is inspired by incidents of plane hijacking by Khalistani terrorists in India back in the 1970s and 1980s. It revolves around Bell Bottom’s rescue operations - a difficult task that seemed impossible to all, including the (then) Prime Minister Indira Gandhi performed successfully by the agent.

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Mohit Raina, playing the lead role of Dr Kaushik, gives an excellent performance.

The other members of the cast, including Konkona Sen Sharma in the role of a social worker and Tina Desai as the doctor’s wife, deserve special mention. The web series portrays the horror-filled night with exceptionally good detailing that makes the viewers glued to the show. The credit goes to the writers Yash Chhhetija, Nikhil Gonsalves, and Anushka Mehrotra and the director duo Nikkhil Advani and Nikhil Gonsalves.

The human side of the story has also been well portrayed, according to both the critics as well as the viewers. The ambience of the government hospital and the terror attacks have been shot with attention to detail.

The shots portray reality and humanity. Director Nikkhil Advani, in an interview with the media, talked about how he wanted to show a real-life version of a medical drama in a government hospital where (unlike in a high-level private hospital) hundreds of patients would be coming every day,

Critics highly praised the stellar performance by Akshay Kumar in the lead role. The short role of his wife, He also said that some of the characters from the web played by Vaani Kapoor, was also appreciated. However, series, rather than being fictional, are actually based on the surprise performance of Lara Dutta as the late Prime real-life characters. This perfect blend of reality and Minister Indira Gandhi was applauded both by the viewers cinematic expertise has made Mumbai Diaries 26/11 an and by the critics. Lara the actress was unrecognizable, unforgettable experience for the viewers. which made her portrayal of Indira Gandhi more authentic. Huma Qureshi For more information on this article or to view additional pictures, and Adil Hussain also gave excellent please visit deshvidesh.com/Oct2021 or download our Mobile App. performances.

The spirit of patriotism is a special attribute of this film, which has appealed to the viewers. According to the critics, this spy thriller is engaging and well deserves its theatrical release. The film can also be watched on Amazon Prime Video, where it also has a very good viewership.

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Shershaah, the biopic of Captain Vikram Batra, Receives Accolades from All

Trailer of Rashmi Rocket: Taapsee Pannu Heightens and Excels Expectations

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e was the hero of the Kargil War who sacrificed his life on the battlefield but only after ensuring victory for his motherland. He was none other than Captain Vikram Batra, the Param Veer Chakra awardee, our national pride. The film Shershaah depicts the biopic of this national hero with due respect and honorific treatment. It was released on Amazon Prime Video on 12 August 2021.

The story revolves around the life of Vikram Batra, beginning from his childhood. Director Vishnu Varadhan and his writer Sandeep Srivastava have done their jobs very well in describing the childhood and youth of Vikram Batra along with his finding his love, Dimple Cheema. The war scenes are made with extreme care and detail. This has made viewers feel the tough situations and challenges that our armed forces face to keep us safe and protected.

The brief love-life of Vikram and Dimple is shown with a beautiful portrayal of the love, dedication, and determination of both. The incomplete love that came to an end with Vikram’s sacrifice of life is emotionally heartrending. However, the true emotion and spirit of patriotism have been the dominant factor of the film. The story writer and director have been truly successful in presenting our armed forces’ true spirit of patriotism.

In portraying the role of Vikram Batra, Sidharth Malhotra’s acting prowess makes Vikram a truly loved and respected character. He has been the hero of the story, in all senses. Kiara Advani as Dimple Cheema, with her poise and emotional expression, shows herself to be the true Indian woman who is behind every successful man. This film can be a point of inspiration for Indian youth to join the armed forces and serve their motherland.

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ith the 23 September release of the trailer of the film Rashmi Rocket, praises were showered on Taapsee Pannu for her portrayal of Rashmi the athlete. It was unbelievable but true how Pannu transformed herself into the appearance of an athlete.

Rigorous training, and the dedication of an actress to become the character she plays, is evident from the trailer.

The film will be released on 15 October on the OTT Platform Zee5. Directed by Akarsh Khurana, Rashmi Rocket has a supporting cast of Supriya Pathak, Priyanshu Painyuli, Abhishek Banerjee, and others. The story revolves around the life and struggle of a sprinter from the Kutch area of Gujarat, who struggles through the ordeals of gender testing to prove her femininity followed by legal procedures. She ultimately comes out successful.

Supriya Pathak plays the role of Rashmi’s mother.

Priyanshu Painyuli plays her lover, and Abhishek Banerjee plays a lawyer fighting her human rights violation case for her. The trailer has been highly acclaimed by viewers.

Taapsee’s toned body has made her appear fully realistic as a powerful athlete. The film is based on a story by Nanda Periyasamy. Apart from the viewers, the trailer has been appreciated by Bollywood celebrities like Vicky Kaushal, Bhumi Pednekar, Anurag Kashyap, Milap Zaveri, and Prajakta Koli.

However, some netizens slammed the look of Taapsee, saying that only she could have such a man-like body.

Instead of getting angry or taking exception, Taapsee took the comment as a compliment and thanked the netizen, saying that she had worked hard to get that appearance.

Now, we have to wait till 15 October to see the audiences’ response to the film.

OCTOBER 2021 - WWW.DESHVIDESH.COM

Kangana, not Kareena, to Play Sita in Sita: The Incarnation

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o, it’s Kangana Ranaut and not Kareena Kapoor Khan who is going to play the role of Sita. The four-time national award-winning actor is going to play an epic role of the all-time great epic character of Sita. Earlier, it had been reported that Kareena Kapoor Khan would play the role but that this had been cancelled due to her demand of Rs 12 Crores in fees.

The film, titled Sita: The Incarnation, is directed

by Alaukik Desai. It is based on the story of eminent screenwriter KV Vijayendra Prasad. SS Films is the producer of the film. Director Alaukik Desai confirmed, via his social media, the news that Kangana Ranaut would be playing the role of Sita. According to him, the film is a pious journey and a path-breaking effort in our perception of mythology. He also expressed his ecstasy over having Kangana in the role of Sita.

this film. According to Saloni, Kangana is a symbol of the true spirit of fearless Indian women. She also stressed the need to prove and celebrate gender equality.

Kangana, too, is extremely delighted to get such an epic role. She thanked the director for allowing her to play such an important role. Saloni Sharma, on behalf of the SS Films producer, profusely expressed her gratitude in welcoming Kangana to be a part of

Keeping in mind the acting genius and versatility of Kangana, viewers’ expectations are already high. They are eagerly waiting to watch the performance of this great actor take on the role of the ultimate symbol of Indian women: Sita!

#MODI AGAIN (Why Modi is right for India) An Ex-Communist’s Manifesto

By Aabhas Maldahiyar

Aabhas, a self-professed Marxist voted against BJP and Narendra Modi in 2014.

This is the story of his journey of transformation from a Modi hater to a Modi supporter.

In his own words— “I had both hearts at twenty and now have brain while I kiss thirty. This is a true story of the journey from being a ‘Marxist’ to an alleged ‘Modi Bhakt.’ I once saw Arvind Kejriwal as the savior of the realm and Modi as a mass-murderer.”

A study tour to Ajanta Caves began to shape a new Aabhas. He questioned the indoctrination into Communist ideology he got in college. “India leaped to become the third-fastest growing economy and its respect in the world reflects on the leadership of Modi. This is a New India, making alliances and friends, and willing to hit its enemies hard.

Republic of Hindutva: How the Sangh is Reshaping Indian Democracy

By Badri Narayan For many years, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been working towards social reconstruction in India, which is then used by the Bharatiya Janata Party for political benefit. Contrary to popular understanding, the RSS has transformed to become more technologically savvy and socially inclusive, making the message of Hindu nationalism appealing to a large section of Indians. It has been actively mobilizing Dalits, tribals and other marginalized communities to assimilate them into the Hindutva metanarrative. Instead of wiping out caste from electoral politics, the RSS plays up the identity of disadvantaged groups, which translates into votes for the BJP. Drawing on extensive field research in the heartland of Uttar Pradesh, this pathbreaking book shows how through well-planned strategies of appropriation and social work, Hindutva forces are radically reshaping Indian democracy.

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The Cultural Landscape of Hindutva & Other Essays: Historical Legitimacy of an Idea

By Saumya Dey, Maj Gen (dr) G D Bakshi (Foreword) ‘The Cultural Landscape of Hindutva: Historical Legitimacy of an Idea’, the title piece of this volume, seeks to establish that Hindutva is no artificial contrivance but an ethical concatenation of Dharma, dharā and rajya rooted in the Indic civilisational ethos and representative of a cultural landscape, or lifeworld. It is followed by eleven more essays pertaining to various political, cultural and historical themes. Like the title piece, they all are attempts at ‘counter-narrativity’. Citing facts, evidence and drawing upon academic works, they seek to provide the reader an alternative to the standard, disingenuous ‘left-liberal’ narratives that dominate Indian media and academia.

BHARATIYA JANATA PARTY: Past, Present and Future: Story of the World’s Largest Political Party (BJP) Kindle Edition

By Shantanu Gupta On 29th March, 2015, at BJP’s old office at 11, Ashoka Road, a digital counter was ticking. Party workers, office bearers and even staff, all were staring at the digital screen. The screen was showing the total number of party members enrolled through the party’s new ‘Sadasyata Abhiyan’ (Membership Drive). The party’s national president Amit Shah was in office that day. With a childlike eagerness in his eyes, he too was looking at the digital counter. As soon as the counter hit the target, the whole office erupted in euphoria. It reached 8.8 crore members, surpassing the Communist Party of China. The ambitious membership drive was Shah’s idea. Next day every leading newspaper reported it bold and clear—BJP becomes the largest political party in the world.

How did this happen? Was it merely a numerical exercise which boosted Bharatiya Janata Party’s fortunes or was it the case of an idea whose time had come? From a mere two seats in the Lok Sabha in 1984 to now having decimated the opposition, can this juggernaut be attributed to only the Modi-Shah duo or the reasons run deep into the complexity of the highly misunderstood Hindutva movement? To answer these questions, Shantanu Gupta travels back into the history of the Right-wing movements in India, from their ideological origins to the evolution of their nationalist idea, bringing together a comprehensive study of not just BJP as a political party but of an ideological entity which defines the nationalist movement in the country like never before.

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This Week’s Top Hindi Serials

There are some new entries, some changes in position, and some higher or lower scores.

1. Anupama, the famous serial of Hotstar OTT and a story about female empowerment, has been successful in retaining its number one position. With its score of 48.0, Anupama - once again topping the list - is way ahead of the second serial.

2. Second place goes to Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah of SonyLiv, whose score is 35.0. This time, the comedy serial Taarak Mehta has made it to the top-10 A-list.

3. Star Plus’ (HotStar’s) famous serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has won third place, with a score of 33.0. This is quite close to Taarak Mehta’s score.

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4. Kundali Bhagya of Zee5 holds fourth place, with a score of 31.0.

5. Choti Sardarni of Voot.com has a score of 30.0 and is ranked fifth.

6. Ghum Hai Kisi Ke Pyaar Mein of Hotstar is the sixth-place serial, holding a score of 29.0.

7. Seventh place is held by Jijaji Chhat Par Koi Hai of SonyLiv, with a score of 27.0.

8. Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya 2 of Hotstar holds eighth place, with a score of 25.0.

9. Ninth placepsition is held by Kumkum Bhagya of Zee5, with a score of 22.0.

10. Tenth place in the TRP ranking listing the top ten serials has been given to Kyun Utthe Dil Chhod Aaye of SonyLiv, with a score of 18.0.

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The Merger of Zee TV and Sony Entertainment in India

The two rivals of the Indian television industry have joined hands to form the biggest entertainment network in India. Zee Entertainment Enterprises (or ZEEL) has been able to find a fruitful solution to its struggle with its former rival, Sony Pictures Networks. The two big players of Indian television have decided to merge.

Sony has agreed to make a growth capital investment of $1.57 billion in the newly merged business.

In this new business, Sony will have the power of appointing the majority of the directors. However, Punit Goenka, the CEO and MD of ZEEL, will remain in his position in the newly formed business.

Being investors, Sony shareholders will own 53% of the shares of the merged

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business, while ZEEL shareholders will own 47%.

The merger is expected to command a major share of the viewership of Indian television. However, this deal has yet to be approved by the Competition Commission of India and SEBI. This merged identity will offer entertainment, news, sports, and movie channels in more than 10 languages. Thus, it will have a prospective source of revenue from ads and sponsorships due to increased viewership. The merger will pose a threat to the Disney and Star Network conglomerate, which now has 24% viewership within its control.

Disney and Star dominate in the telecasts of the cricket matches, which is a craze for a large section of Indian viewers. The merged business operation of Zee and Sony has to penetrate this telecast field in order to reach an even larger segment of viewers.

Visually Impaired Contestant Becomes First Crorepati Winner in KBC 13

The famous Sony Entertainment quiz show Kaun Banega Crorepati (or KBC) - got its first Crorepati winner this season. She is Himani Bundela, a visually impaired contestant from Agra. She was accompanied by her father. She answered the 1 Crore question correctly. When coming to the last question (carrying with it a prize value of Rs 7 Crores), she was unsure of how to answer. So, she quit the show with her prize money of Rs 1 Crore.

This is the 13th season of KBC. Hosted by the living legend Amitabh Bachchan, the show is famous for its excellent hosting by Big B; and for his sense of humour.

It is also famous for the profiles and reactions of the contestants participating in the show. They come from different walks of life, representing various strata and classes of Indian society. Their simplicity and intellect, along with

their total awe for the host, makes the show extremely popular among the viewers.

This year, the show began to be telecast on 23 August and became an instant hit, as always. The Himani Bundela episode was telecast on 31 August 2021. 25-year-old Himani is a school teacher at a central government school, where she teaches mental math.

She lost her eyesight in 2011 following an accident. This cheerful girl was praised and encouraged by Amitabh Bachchan in all possible ways.

Himani is in the noble profession of teaching.

Her aim in life is to help the physically challenged students by teaching them mental math via her innovative method of teaching. Her father also expressed his satisfaction and pride for the achievements of her daughter.

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Anupamaa Reigns over the World of Hindi Serials in 2021 expertise that makes them acceptable as well as relatable to the audience.

There are characters of different shades in the serial; and the actors have done justice to each of the characters.

Anupamaa, the story of a simple Gujarati housewife, has won the hearts of millions of Indian viewers.

Their love for Anupamaa has placed the program at the top of the TRP list most of the time; and Anupamaa can justly be called the best Hindi serial of 2021. There are many reasons for the immense popularity of Anupamaa.

values of respecting relationships and taking care of the family. Anupamaa, played by Rupali Ganguly, stands by her family, helps everyone, and never gets angry or destructive. She values the vows of marriage, and the duties and responsibilities of a mother and a daughter-in-law. Despite constantly being bantered with and belittled, she is never angry.

Firstly, Anupamaa is an icon of an ideal Indian woman with traditional

Secondly, all the actors of the serial portray their roles with great

Thirdly, the storyline is gripping with changes in the attitude of Anupamaa. After spending more than 25 years of married life without the kind of reciprocal love and respect that she longs for, she begins to create her own identity in her own way. This is a great message towards women empowerment; and conveys a message that new beginnings can be initiated at any phase of life. The struggle, the patience, the care, and the determination of Anupamaa is a great inspiration for Indian women, especially middle-aged women.

Last but not least is the melodious title song of the serial.

It is an excellent composition that expresses great love for, and respect of, all mothers.

Disney Plus Hotstar: Exclusive Offers and Plans Disney began its control over Hotstar in 2019. Now, with the collaboration renamed Disney + Hotstar, many exclusive and sought-after content options are available for its viewers.

The subscription plans have recently been changed, coming into effect from 1 September 2021 on. The new subscription plans on offer comprise different categories. Some plans are mobile only, wherein viewers get access to various content options (offered by Disney as well as Hotstar) through their mobile devices.

Another subscription plan is for two devices, enabling content to be watched on both devices at once. The top-grade

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Ops, Out of Love, and City of Dreams.

subscription plan covers access via four devices at a time.

Disney + Hotstar allows the viewers to watch a plethora of national and international content. It includes live streaming of cricket and other sports, the Marvel films, Star Wars, Game of Thrones, Oscar-winning films along with the popular Indian films and web series like Criminal Justice, Special

The younger generation prefers the mobile subscription plan which is a modest amount of 499 for a year. With this money, they can watch all the premium content through their smartphones.

These plans are effective methods of penetrating the Indian market for Disney. India is considered a very promising potential market, and Disney + Hotstar has a commanding share of the viewership in India.

With the exclusive content offered by Disney, Disney + Hotstar has an edge over its competitors like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.

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