Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks in the United States, questioning whether Sikhs will be able to wear their turban and ‘kada’ or visit Gurdwaras under the BJP-led regime, are at odds with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s demonstrated respect for Sikh culture. Modi has been seen wearing a Sikh turban during his visit to Takhat Sri Harminder Ji Patna Sahib in Bihar in May and has actively participated in Sikh customs, including cooking and serving Langar. During election rallies in Punjab, Modi was also seen sporting a Sikh turban.

Two years ago, Modi hosted a Sikh delegation at his residence and wore a Sikh cadet turban at a National Cadet Corps rally in Delhi. In 2019, he visited Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur wearing a Sikh turban. The BJP highlights Modi’s landmark initiatives such as declaring December 26 as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ to honor Guru Gobind Singh’s sons and the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor as evidence of his respect for Sikh traditions.

Gandhi’s comments have drawn criticism from BJP leaders, who argue that these statements aim to create divisions. They note that during the 1984 anti-Sikh riots under Congress rule, Sikhs were forced to remove their turbans, a historical context they use to counter Gandhi’s claims. BJP leaders also see a pattern in Gandhi’s comments, recalling similar criticisms he made while speaking at Cambridge University, where he claimed that Modi considers Sikh individuals as “second-class citizens” in India.

The post Modi’s Turban and Langar to Kartarpur: Sikh Respect first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

In the sacred tapestry of Indian classical music, Dhrupad stands as a timeless embodiment of the celestial symphony, resonating with the profound rhythms that underpin the very essence of existence. This ancient tradition, rooted in the celestial melodies of the Sama Veda, is a sonic manifestation of the cosmic dance of Shiva, the Adi Yogi (the primordial yogi) and the Lord of Dance.

The Birth of Dhrupad: Eternal Echoes from the Sama Veda

The genesis of Dhrupad can be traced back to the sacred chants of the Sama Veda, one of the four principal Vedas of Hinduism. These ancient hymns, believed to be revelations from the divine, were sung with meticulous precision, adhering to a system of tonal accents and rhythmic patterns that were meticulously preserved and transmitted through an unbroken lineage of scholars and practitioners.

One of the most revered mantras from the Sama Veda is the “Sadāvṛttam” (सदावृत्तम्), which translates to “ever-moving” or “eternal rhythm.” This mantra invokes the cosmic dance that permeates the universe, celebrating the rhythmic pulse that orchestrates the dance of creation and dissolution.

Sadāvṛttaṁ sadāvṛttaṁ paramaṁ viśvatomukham ।

Janmajanmāntare ṇāntare ṇāsambhūtam ॥

“The eternal rhythm, the supreme, the all-pervading,

Born and reborn in the intervals between births and deaths.“

As these celestial melodies echoed through the temples and ashrams of ancient India, they imbued the hearts and souls of devotees with a profound sense of transcendence, offering a glimpse into the cosmic dance that permeates all existence. It was from this sacred wellspring that Dhrupad emerged, a musical form that sought to capture the essence of the divine and channel it through the medium of sound.

The Tandava in Sonic Form: Embodying the Cosmic Dance

“Mirroring the cosmic dance of Shiva, Dhrupad weaves together the flow of cosmic energy, the interplay of sound and silence, and the harmonious balance of masculine and feminine essence. Its intricate rhythmic patterns, known as talas, mimic the rhythmic pulse of the universe, the cosmic heartbeat that resonates through every particle of existence.”

The genre’s signature element, the Alaap, is a mesmerizing exploration of a single raga, where the vocalist embarks on a melodic journey, gradually unfolding the intricate nuances and subtleties of the chosen musical mode. This meditative exploration invites the listener to surrender to the present moment, to transcend the limitations of the mind, and to attune themselves to the cosmic rhythm that pulsates within.

Echoes of the Divine: Landmark Incidents and Mantras

Throughout the rich tapestry of Dhrupad’s history, numerous landmark incidents and sacred mantras have woven themselves into the fabric of this celestial art form, imbuing it with a profound spiritual significance.

One such landmark event is the mythical tale of Tansen, the legendary musician at the court of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. It is said that Tansen’s mastery of Dhrupad was so profound that his rendition of the Raga Deepak could ignite fires, while his performance of Raga Malhar could summon rainclouds and quench the parched earth. This legend serves as a metaphor for the transformative power of Dhrupad, its ability to influence the very elements of nature and resonate with the cosmic forces that govern the universe.

Another pivotal moment in Dhrupad’s history is the composition of the “Mian Ki Malhar,” a timeless masterpiece attributed to the 16th-century musician Mian Tansen. This iconic composition, steeped in the depths of Raga Malhar, is said to have been so evocative that it could summon the rains during times of drought. The mantra-like verses of “Mian Ki Malhar” became a conduit for channeling the cosmic energies, invoking the dance of the clouds and the life-giving power of water.

Aaba na aavat, paawan ghir ghir aavat,

Jal nirjhara barkha barsaat, man mora lehraiyo re

“Now the sacred rain clouds gather,

The streams of water flow, the rain pours,

And my heart dances with delight.“

These sacred verses, etched into the collective memory of Dhrupad practitioners, serve as a reminder of the genre’s profound connection to the natural world and the rhythms that govern the cosmic dance.

The Spiritual Dimension: Awakening the Inner Dancer

Beyond its musical and historical significance, Dhrupad carries within its melodic tapestry a profound spiritual dimension, inviting practitioners and listeners alike to awaken the cosmic dancer within. Where Shiva’s cosmic dance ignites the spark of enlightenment, Dhrupad becomes a moonlit path, gently guiding the explorer inwards towards a sanctuary of profound harmony and divine connection.

“The practice of Dhrupad is not merely a pursuit of musical mastery but a spiritual discipline, a path towards self-realization and enlightenment. Each note, each pause, and each rhythmic pattern becomes a mantra, a sonic key that unlocks the doors to the inner sanctum of consciousness.”

As the practitioner surrenders to the eternal rhythm of Dhrupad, they begin to embody the essence of the Tandava, becoming vessels for the cosmic dance to unfold within their very beings. The boundaries between the individual and the universal dissolve, and the practitioner becomes a conduit for the divine energy that permeates the universe, channeling its creative and transformative forces into a harmonious expression of their highest potential.

Echoes from the Puranas: The Dance of Creation

The ancient Puranas, the vast body of Hindu sacred literature, are replete with tales and narratives that celebrate the cosmic dance of creation. One such tale is the legend of Shiva’s Tandava, the divine dance that created and sustained the universe.

According to the Shiva Purana, the Lord Shiva performed the Tandava, the cosmic dance of creation, to the accompaniment of the celestial drummer, Nandi. The rhythmic beats of Nandi’s drum provided the rhythmic foundation for the unfolding of the cosmic dance, while Shiva’s movements brought the universe into existence.

Nandikinnarairabhinandito Vaditrairvaditrairvaditrairabhinanditah ।

Praṇanditaścārutandavairnṛtyannṛtyannṛtyati Bhuvaneṣu ॥

“Praised by the Kinnaras and accompanied by musicians,

Shiva dances, delighting in his graceful dance,

Dancing, dancing, dancing throughout the worlds.”

This profound narrative not only celebrates the divine dance but also underscores the significance of rhythm and music in the creation and sustenance of the cosmos. It is this cosmic rhythm that Dhrupad seeks to embody, inviting practitioners and listeners alike to become part of the eternal dance of creation.

Bhajans and Hymns: Reverberating with the Cosmic Rhythm

“Throughout the ages, numerous bhajans (devotional songs) and hymns have been composed to celebrate the cosmic dance and the eternal rhythm that underpins existence. These sacred compositions serve as a bridge between the mundane and the divine, allowing devotees to immerse themselves in the rhythms of the cosmos and experience a profound sense of connection with the divine.”

One such bhajan is the “Shiva Stuti,” a hymn of praise to Lord Shiva, composed by the revered saint-poet Tulsidas. This powerful composition not only celebrates the glory of Shiva but also invokes the cosmic dance and the rhythmic pulse that sustains the universe.

Jay Girija Pati Har Har Ganga Dhar Shoolpani |

Tava charaṇa kamala parāgata prema se bhakta bande ॥

“Hail to the Lord of Girija, the bearer of the Ganga and the trident,

With devotion, I bow to your lotus feet.

Lord of dancers, King of dancers, Master of dance, Lord of the dancing lands,

The foundation of the dance of the three worlds, the leader of the entire universe.“

Another powerful hymn that captures the essence of the cosmic dance is the “Shiva Mahimna Stotram,” composed by the great sage Pushpadanta. This sacred composition not only praises the glory of Shiva but also invokes the rhythmic pulse that orchestrates the dance of creation and dissolution.

Natarajam Natanatham Nateśam Natabhūṣaṇam ।

Naṭāntakaṁ Naṭendraṁ Naṭāṅgapraṇamāmyaham ॥

“I bow to the Lord of dancers, the Master of dance, the King of dancers,

The ornament of dancers, the destroyer of dancers, the Lord of dancers,

And the limbs of the cosmic dance.“

These bhajans and hymns, reverberating with the cosmic rhythm, remind us of the profound connection between music, dance, and the very fabric of existence. They invite us to attune ourselves to the eternal dance, to surrender to the rhythmic pulse that underpins the universe, and to experience the profound sense of unity and oneness that comes from embodying the cosmic rhythm.

Embracing the Cosmic Rhythm: A Path to Enlightenment

In the grand symphony of existence, Dhrupad stands as a living testament to the eternal dance of Shiva, a bridge between the mundane and the sacred, the finite and the infinite. Its melodies resonate with the cosmic vibrations that underpin the very fabric of reality, inviting us to attune ourselves to the rhythms that orchestrate the dance of creation and dissolution.

As we immerse ourselves in the mesmerizing tapestry of Dhrupad, we are not mere spectators but active participants in the cosmic choreography, each note, each breath, and each movement contributing to the unfolding drama of the universe. We become co-creators in the grand symphony of existence, our voices echoing the primordial vibrations that set the cosmos in motion.

Through the practice of Dhrupad, we transcend the limitations of our perceived reality and embrace the boundless tapestry of existence itself. We awaken to the truth that we are not separate from the dance but integral to its eternal rhythm, each heartbeat a brushstroke on the canvas of the divine.

As we surrender to this cosmic dance, we ignite a transformative spark within ourselves, radiating outward and igniting the world around us with the essence of the sacred. We become beacons of light, embodiments of the divine energy that permeates all existence, guiding others towards the realization of their own cosmic potential.

In the end, Dhrupad is not merely a musical tradition but a sacred pathway, a melodic offering to the cosmic dance that sustains the universe. It is an invitation to embrace the eternal rhythm, to surrender to the cosmic choreography, and to awaken to the profound truth that lies at the heart of existence — a truth that transcends the boundaries of human understanding and invites us to become one with the infinite tapestry of being itself.

About the Author

Vasini’s voice carries the vibrant spirit of Mithila’s folk music, echoing through decades of dedication. For decades, She has upheld this vibrant cultural legacy, weaving tales through traditional melodies as well as classical music. Her renditions resonate deeply, earning her recognition on AIR and Doordarshan.

As an empanelled artist and a passionate teacher, She shares the magic of folk music and classical music on prestigious platforms and inspires aspiring artists, ensuring this heritage continues to soar. Her intention is to inspire generations as an artist and mentor to share the richness of Indian culture.

The post Dhrupad: Unveiling the Celestial Symphony first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

One of today’s most pressing issues revolves around equality, particularly gender parity and women’s rights. Despite unprecedented freedom and rights, women struggle to embrace their true feminine essence. Feminism grapples with a ‘Branding problem,’ ignoring inherent gender differences and pushing for “Equality of Outcome,” resulting in a reversal of gender roles. Women, longing for the Divine Masculine, must now cultivate it within themselves due to the lack of authentic masculinity around them, hindering their true femininity.

In contrast, Hinduism reveres Shakti, the divine feminine, placing her above all else. Devi worship forms the essence of this ancient tradition, celebrating feminine power for millennia. Shakti represents cosmic existence and change, embodying dynamic forces within the cosmos. Indian women effortlessly embody this divine energy, embracing their femininity with pride and confidence. Hinduism teaches the union of Shiva and Shakti within oneself, recognizing the multitude of goddess energies within.

Hindu scriptures extol the essence of womanhood, emphasizing the rarity and superiority of women. Shakti has personally shaped the author’s identity, teaching the balance of Yin and Yang, softness, and love over force. Hinduism offers a profound understanding of gender dynamics, promoting cooperation and appreciation between men and women for societal progress.

The dance of Shiva and Shakti holds profound healing and necessity in today’s world, offering a balanced perspective on gender dynamics. Hinduism’s egalitarian attitude towards men and women reflects the cooperative spirit of the Vedas, offering valuable lessons for societal harmony. Ultimately, Hinduism’s enduring relevance lies in its delicate dance of life’s divine play, offering wisdom for over 5000 years and continuing to guide humanity today.

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For more than a hundred years, Cambodia and Thailand have been locked in a heated dispute over the ownership of the ancient Hindu temple, Preah Vihear. This contention dates back to Cambodia’s independence in 1954 when Thailand assumed control of the temple, leading to ongoing tensions between the two nations. The disagreement extends beyond just the temple itself, with conflicts over the surrounding land exacerbating the situation, occasionally erupting into violence. Notably, a clash occurred in October 2008, and in April 2009, Thai soldiers reportedly caused damage to 66 stones of the temple by firing across the border. Moreover, in February 2010, the Cambodian authorities lodged a formal complaint against Google Maps. They objected to its depiction of the natural watershed as the international boundary, which diverged from the line outlined in the 1907 French map accepted by the International Court of Justice in 1962.

Perched atop a 1,722-foot cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains of Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, the Preah Vihear Temple holds significant historical and religious importance as a Hindu temple constructed during the Khmer Empire era. Over time, it has undergone alterations and received patronage from various monarchs, resulting in a fusion of architectural styles. Unlike typical Khmer temples, Preah Vihear follows a unique long north-south axis instead of a rectangular plan. Its name is derived from the Preah Vihear province where it currently stands and is closely linked with the Khao Phra Wihan National Park, located in Thailand’s Sisaket Province, although access from Thailand is no longer available. Recognizing its cultural significance, the temple was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, sparking further political maneuvering from both Thai and Cambodian nationalists. Beyond its cultural value, the temple represents a potential source of substantial tourist revenue for Cambodia.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking at an election rally in Greater Noida, emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi refrains from politics based on religion or societal divisions. Singh pointed out a past remark by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2006 about extending reservation for Muslims, which Modi referenced in a recent rally in Rajasthan.

Singh defended Modi against opposition criticism, highlighting their efforts to undermine the Prime Minister’s reputation. He questioned the objections raised over the surveying of properties mentioned in the Congress manifesto, urging clarity from the Congress on their stance.

Referring to Dr. Manmohan Singh’s remarks, Singh reiterated the former Prime Minister’s statement regarding the rights of minorities to the country’s resources. He criticized the Congress for past actions, including recommendations for reservation quotas and changes to educational institutions’ reservation policies.

Singh accused the Congress of dividing the country along religious lines and affirmed the BJP’s commitment to a unified India. He dismissed opposition criticism over an uncontested BJP victory in Surat, Gujarat, citing similar instances in the past without outcry.

The Defence Minister called for honest politics and urged the media to hold politicians accountable. He emphasized transparency and integrity in political discourse, urging against misleading the public for political gain.

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In Swalath Nagar, located in Malappuram district, Kerala, the country’s largest Ramzan prayer congregation is set to take place on Saturday, April 6th. This spiritual gathering, where thousands of believers gather to seek blessings during the Night of Destiny, symbolizes the essence of Lailatul Qadr, observed on the 27th night of Ramadan.

Madin Academy, situated in Swalath Nagar, Malappuram, renowned for its significant contributions to spirituality, knowledge dissemination, and humanitarian efforts, has been organizing this spiritual event for several years. It is widely acknowledged as the largest prayer congregation in the country, attracting believers from various regions.

The yearly Ramadan Prayer Conference, conducted at Madin Campus, also functions as the location for the monthly Swalath prayer congregation. Starting from the first day of Ramadan, Madin’s Ramadan campaign includes a range of spiritual and intellectual activities. This month-long program comprises scholarly discussions, relief initiatives, study camps, iftar gatherings, online sessions, and remembrance forums, drawing participants from across the world.

The event will be inaugurated by All India Sunni Jamiathul Ulama General Secretary Kanthapuram AP Abubakar Musliar, with Samasta President E Sulaiman Musliar presiding over it.

A community iftar will be organized at Swalath Nagar, marking it as the largest iftar gathering in the country, symbolizing Islamic solidarity. The iftar, following green regulations, promotes equality in Islam. Following iftar, prayers such as Tasbeeh, Awwabeen, Taraweeh, and Witr will take place at Ma’adin Grand Mosque, Old Mosque, and Main Ground.

The main events of the prayer conference will commence at nine in the evening, featuring recitations of Swalath upon the prophet, prayers for forgiveness, tributes to holy figures, and concluding prayers. Over a hundred help desk counters will be set up across the city and its environs to ensure the convenience of devotees.

Various grounds will be equipped with sound and light facilities, offering iftar and suhoor services. Web streaming through Madin’s official YouTube channel will be available, with special arrangements for Gulf expatriates and distant travelers. Collaborating with the government and police, Swalath Nagar is preparing facilities for lakhs of believers, including a super speciality intensive care unit and a core volunteers team of 5555 members.

As part of the conference, a pilgrimage will be organized on Monday morning, followed by a flag-hoisting ceremony. Tuesday will witness a Jalasathul Baraq session and an Iftar meeting, while Wednesday will feature a fund and food raising Procession. The prayer conference proceedings will kickstart on Friday afternoon.

Under Ma’din Academy’s stewardship, 51 institutions spanning educational, scientific, and humanitarian sectors will contribute to the event’s success.

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Powerful Voices, Powerful Impact

On February 15, 2024, the summit featured Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as the keynote speaker, injecting profound wisdom into the event. Gurudev highlighted the importance of having the right mindset and praised companies and NGOs for their excellent CSR work. He emphasized the need to approach CSR with genuine compassion, pointing out how spirituality can prevent burnout and promote overall lifestyle changes.

Shri Prasana Prabhu, representing The Art of Living, passionately underscored the significance of trust and connection in fostering sustainable change. Aditya Pachpande, Co-Founder of Nextgen Innov8, echoed Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, intertwining innovation, social entrepreneurship, and positive change.

Networking, Collaboration and an Exchange of Best Practices

Set against the vibrant backdrop of The Art of Living International Centre in Bengaluru, and organized by NEXTGEN INNOV8, SMX CSR Leadership 3.0 seamlessly brought together CSR Heads, representatives from the CSR Desk of the Government of India, stakeholders from the Ministry of Commerce, CEOs, top industry leaders, and distinguished NGOs from India and beyond. The summit served as a dynamic platform to celebrate their achievements, exchange insights, exchange crucial learning outcomes and showcase the best practices employed. Additionally, the summit offered a unique opportunity for networking, fostering collaboration and camaraderie among CSR professionals.

A Pivotal Year for India’s CSR Landscape

This year’s SMX CSR Leadership Summit & Awards 3.0 held special significance for India as it commemorated 75 years of freedom, symbolizing liberation from exploitation of our nation, people, and resources. As we take on the G20 presidency, the focus revolves around discussions concerning sustainable development, socioeconomic growth and the challenges posed by climate change. This juncture is particularly notable for individuals in the development sector, especially corporate social responsibility (CSR) professionals, whose numbers have quadrupled in the last decade. Simultaneously celebrating 10 years of mandated CSR in the country, their tireless efforts align with broader government objectives and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

SMX CSR Leadership 3.0 transcended the typical corporate gathering. It emerged as a forum for knowledge exchange, inspiration, and a collective commitment to advancing CSR in its true spirit. The event revealed the transformative power of conscious corporate responsibility, highlighting its potential to bring about positive change on a global scale.

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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 leaders, and the lasting impact of his work. Furthermore, in his speech, Vivekananda introduced Hinduism to America and called for an end to fanaticism and religious intolerance. He also desThe present conventioncribed yoga as a “science of the mind” and translated Yogic texts from Sanskrit into English.Swami Vivekananda brought the wisdom of ancient India to America in 1893 through the practice of yoga. The American fabric has not undergone such a drastic transformation since the advent of Columbus, according to several conference attendees. Over the past 100 years, yoga has steadily become more and more ingrained in Western culture. This can be seen in movies like Star Wars and The Matrix, music from bands like Coldplay and the Beatles, literature ranging from Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World to countless best-selling self-help books promoting mindfulness and meditation, the use of Ayurvedic medicine, the rise in popularity of athleisure clothing, and the fact that there is a yoga studio on every Main Street in the United States.Presenting the life and legacy of Swami Vivekananda, 1893: YEAR OF THE YOGI is a colorful animated film that combines historical video and interviews with influential figures in athletics, music, film, and religion. In keeping with Vivekananda’s central theme of inclusivity, the movie incorporates quotes from a wide range of writings, lectures, and letters that highlight how yoga is a popular choice for a variety of audiences. The narrative of the film is elevated by the aural tapestry created by modern Western artists that draws inspiration from ancient tradition and classical Indian music, which includes works by Swami himself. The best times for introspection and personal development are during difficult times, and 1893: YEAR OF THE YOGI, an artistic continuation of Vivekananda’s work, fulfills this purpose.

Nicholas Oscoff’s directorial venture, “1893: The Year of the Yogi,” promises to be a significant contribution to the cinematic exploration of yoga’s profound impact on Western culture. The film traces the historical roots of yoga’s journey to the West, particularly emphasizing Swami Vivekananda’s pivotal role in introducing the ancient Indian philosophy to American society.

Director Nicholas Oscoff expressed his personal views in a video interview with Indic Dialogue: “Meet the filmmakers of the upcoming movie “1893: The Year of the Yogi.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1M0OCpszF4

Nicholas talked about his personal journey, fueled by a fascination with Indian philosophy and spirituality, which has evidently shaped the narrative of this documentary. His multicultural background and extensive travels, including repeated visits to India, seem to have deepened his understanding and connection to the subject matter. This personal resonance with the spiritual teachings of the East, paired with his professional background in international affairs and the film industry, positions him uniquely to tell this story.

Here are some key points I found particularly interesting from Nicholas’s interview:

• Personal journey: Oscoff describes his own early exposure to Indian philosophy through Deepak Chopra’s books, highlighting the initial spark that led him to explore India and its spiritual traditions.
• Cultural bridge: He mentions his multicultural upbringing with Egyptian and Italian roots, which likely contributed to his understanding of bridging Eastern and Western perspectives.
• Spiritual home: Oscoff speaks of India as his spiritual home and how being born in America allows him to “live with one foot in the East and one in the West.” This personal connection likely adds depth and authenticity to the film.
• Encounter with Sri Ramakrishna: The director’s introduction to Ramakrishna through a biography becomes a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey, leading him to further explore Vivekananda’s teachings.

The film’s focus on Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in bringing Eastern spirituality to Western consciousness, reflects a thoughtful approach to making this profound subject accessible and engaging to a Western audience. The inclusion of animation and interviews with leading Swamis suggests a rich, multi-dimensional exploration of the topic.

Here are some key points you are going to find in this historic documentary movie:

• Untold origin story: It emphasizes the film’s focus on showcasing Swami Vivekananda’s lesser-known role in introducing yoga to the West and the transformative impact he had.
• Interviews with diverse voices: The inclusion of interviews with leaders from various fields, including music, sports, and religion, promises a multifaceted perspective on Vivekananda’s teachings and their contemporary relevance.
• Archival footage and animation: The utilization of both archival footage and animation suggests a dynamic approach to storytelling, potentially making the film engaging for a wider audience.
• Historical accuracy: The webpage highlights the film’s commitment to historical accuracy, which is crucial for portraying Vivekananda’s life and impact with integrity.

“1893: The Year of the Yogi” not only aims to narrate the historical significance of yoga’s arrival in the West but also seeks to highlight the ongoing influence of Eastern spirituality on various aspects of Western culture, from popular entertainment to personal wellness practices.

This exceptional documentary movie focusing on Swami Vivekanand’s journey to the US is anticipated to be released in 2024, and its call for community support underlines its collaborative and timely nature. It seems to be more than just a film; it’s an invitation to participate in a cultural and spiritual dialogue, one that Oscoff envisions continuing through future projects rooted in Indian Dharma.

Overall, “1893: The Year of the Yogi” appears to be a promising and enlightening cinematic journey, offering insights into the cross-cultural exchange that has shaped modern spiritual perspectives.

Swami Vivekananda’s Historic Speech at World Parliament of Religions in Chicago 11th September 1893

Sisters and Brothers of America It fills my heart with joy unspeakable to rise in response to the warm and cordial welcome which you have given us. I thank you in the name of the most ancient order of monks in the world; I thank you in the name of the mother of religions; and I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects. My thanks, also, to some of the speakers on this platform who, referring to the delegates from the Orient, have told you that these men from far-off nations may well claim the honor of bearing to different lands the idea of toleration.I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation which has sheltered the persecuted and the refugees of all religions and all nations of the earth. I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites, who came to the Southern India and took refuge with us in the very year in which their holy temple was shattered to pieces by Roman tyranny.I am proud to belong to the religion which has sheltered and is still fostering the remnant of the grand Zoroastrian nation. I will quote to you, brethren, a few lines from a hymn which I remember to have repeated from my earliest boyhood, which is every day repeated by millions of human beings: As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.The present convention, which is one of the most august assemblies ever held, is in itself a vindication, a declaration to the world, of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita: Whosoever comes to Me,through whatsoever form, I reach him, all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to Me, Sectarianism, bigotry, and it’s horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth.They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization, and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would be far more advanced than it is now. But their time is come; and I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honor of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal.

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Representing a five-year-old Ram, the ground-floor idol is part of the new temple. The first floor, yet to be built, will feature idols of Raja Ram, Sita, Laxman, and Hanuman. Earlier, a viral photograph of the idol stirred controversy, leading the temple’s chief priest to demand an investigation into its circulation, citing the secrecy of Lord Ram’s eyes before ‘Pran Pratishtha.’

A multitude of celebrities and notable figures attended the ground consecration ceremony, with over 11,000 invitations sent out. Despite accusations of politicization by some parties, the Opposition largely stayed away, with a few leaders expressing intentions to visit the temple at a later time.

Ayodhya Temple

Pran Pratistha

Ram Lalla idol

PM Modi

consecration

saints

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat

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Presently, the primary route to Ayodhya is through Kamta to Chinhat Matiyari via Barabanki, but the utilization of the alternative Sultanpur route has declined. In response, efforts are being made to raise awareness about these alternative routes, as stated by Upendra Kumar Agarwal, Lucknow Joint Commissioner of Police.

Simultaneously, security measures and patrolling have been intensified in anticipation of the grand ceremony. Scheduled for January 22 at 12:20 pm, the consecration ceremony will be attended by numerous VVIP guests, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The invitation cards for the ceremony reflect the grandeur of the temple. Each set comprises the main invitation card, the “Pran Pratishtha” program card, and a booklet detailing the journey of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the individuals involved.

The main invitation card features a silhouetted image of the upcoming Ram temple with the inscription ‘Shree Ram Dham’ and ‘Ayodhya.’ The “Pran Pratishtha” program card also carries a silhouetted image of the temple, describing the event as “Ceremony Special” in Hindi.

Inside the ceremony card, details mention the presence of dignitaries such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, UP Governor Anandiben Patel, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and temple trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das.

The ceremony extends invitations to actors Arun Govil and Dipika Chikhlia, who portrayed Lord Ram and Goddess Sita in the TV serial “Ramayan,” along with 4,000 seers from across the country.

The main invitation card includes images of the temple and “Baalrup Prabhu Ram,” depicting the deity in a youthful avatar. Details about the ceremony, including the date and auspicious moments, are outlined on subsequent pages.

Furthermore, the invitation card delves into the historical struggle to build the temple, referencing the Supreme Court’s 2019 verdict that paved the way for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The ruling directed the Centre to allocate an alternative five-acre plot for the Sunni Waqf Board to build a new mosque in a prominent location in Ayodhya.

Ayodhya

Ram Temple

consecration ceremony

alternative routes

security arrangements

Jan 22

VVIP guests

invitation cards

historical struggle

Supreme Court verdict

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