Author: Raj Shah

You’ve probably heard the expression “half-full” or “half-empty” used to describe how people tend to focus on either the positive or negative aspects of a situation. Extrapolating this comparison, I regret to state that most Indian-American journalists and American media outlets’ coverage of reporting on India not only sees the glass half empty but also sees fingerprints all over the glass. Not only do they cover mostly negative news about India, but they also cover half the truth Amol Parth recently undertook an in-depth review of more than 3,000 India-related articles carried by The New York Times, The…

By Raj Shah As India gears up for the 2024 general elections, the nation stands at a pivotal juncture, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi promising an economic leap to become the third-largest economy. This election is underscored by the critical involvement of youth and women voters, whose preferences and participation will significantly shape the outcome. Modi’s ambitious vision extends beyond this electoral milestone, aiming to transform India into a developed country by 2047, the centennial of its independence. This vision encapsulates a comprehensive strategy focusing on economic growth, technological innovation, and social inclusivity, aligning immediate political objectives with long-term national…

Talking about a film on Swami Vivekananda on his birthday would be not only most appropriate but also symbolic and impactful. Swami ji’s birthday, which falls on January 12, is celebrated as National Youth Day in India, reflecting his enduring influence on the youth and his teachings on strength, vigor, and spirituality. In 1893, Vivekananda, an Indian spiritual guru, attended a conference hosted by the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago and gave a historical speech. His opening words, “Sisters and Brothers of America,” won him a standing ovation. It would delve into his teachings, his interactions with other religious…

We celebrated Father’s Day last month. The time is right to be grateful for all the knowledge and advice my father has imparted to me over the years. Growing up, my father taught me many important life lessons that have shaped the person I am today. He has always been a pillar of wisdom and guidance. From how to handle difficult situations to how to be kind to others, my dad showed me the value of these lessons through his own actions and words. He has consistently taught me important life lessons that have served me well into adulthood. From…

Today, July 4, 2023, marks the 121st death anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. On this day, many followers and admirers of Swami Vivekananda around the world commemorate his life and teachings. Swami Vivekananda was a key figure in the introduction of Indian and specifically Hindu philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. His powerful speeches, deep spiritual insights, and transformative work in the field of education have left an indelible impact. His teachings, which emphasized human development through service, love, and purity, continue to inspire millions around the globe. Swami Vivekananda was a Hindu monk, a major figure in…

On June 21, 2023, at the United Nations headquarters in New York, the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the International Yoga Day celebration. Prior to the 9th International Yoga Day ceremony at the United Nations headquarters in New York, PM Modi spoke to the crowd. He expressed gratitude to the public for attending the Yoga Day event in great numbers and commended the city administration for making all the necessary preparations to ensure the event’s “huge” success. The event was held on the big North Lawn of the intergovernmental organization. Excerpt from Prime Minister Modi’s Speech:  “Yoga…

  Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, which has been in power for nine years, has permanently altered several areas of India. The resuscitation and restoration of Hindu temples, revered representations of the country’s cultural and religious past, have been crucial elements of their work. The Modi administration set out on a quest to revive these historic sites because it saw the value of conserving India’s heritage. This article explores the government’s sincere attempts to revitalize Hindu temples, including financial assistance, rehabilitation projects, promotion of pilgrimage tourism, maintenance of traditions, digital initiatives, and strengthening temple administration. Passionate Restoration on the Path…

“Hinduism has the strongest presence of the divine feminine among major world religions, from ancient times to the present” says Edwin Bryant, an American Indologist and professor of Religions of India at Rutgers University. The goddess is viewed as central in Shakti and Shiva Hindu traditions. Matriarchal theology is quite prevalent in Sanskritic traditions and village Hinduism relating to the worship of Shakti, and there are numerous Hindu communities that are matriarchal. Maharshi Manu is the first great man of the world to have given society the highest ideals about women, which adds remarkably to the dignity, status and self…

Google Pay, the popular UPI-based payment application, has introduced a new feature that streamlines the process of activating UPI services. This feature allows users to activate their UPI service using their Aadhaar number, eliminating the need for a debit card. The aim is to enhance accessibility and convenience for UPI transactions, making digital payments seamless for millions of Indians. Simplifying UPI Activation Previously, users had to rely on their debit cards to set up their UPI PIN on Google Pay. However, the latest feature provides two options for UPI activation. Users can either use their debit card or choose to…

As of September 30, current notes in circulation can either be deposited in bank accounts or exchanged, according to a Reserve Bank of India announcement. The RBI said in a statement on May 19 that bank notes with a face value of Rs 2,000 would remain legal currency. The RBI stated that beginning on May 23, 2023, exchanges of Rs 2,000 bank notes into banknotes of other denominations can be done at any bank up to a ceiling of Rs 20,000 at a time in order to maintain operational convenience and prevent interruption of routine activities of bank branches. The…