Articles on Religion, Politics, Human Interest
Fences symbolize division, separating lands and people worldwide. Rising barriers, like the U.S.-Mexico wall and Europe’s high-tech borders, highlight a growing obsession with safety at the expense of humanity. Despite technological advancements, emotional and moral growth lags behind. A call to replace fences with bridges advocates for global understanding and coexistence.
On Monday, Donald Trump will once again step into the limelight, crowned as the 47th President of the United States. … More
The trend of labeling generations began with the Baby Boomers in the 1960s, followed by Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, … More
Reading is more than just interpreting words; it is a cognitive process that leads to acquiring information, knowledge, understanding, and … More
The Sufi poet and philosopher Bulleh Shah (1680–1757) once said: “Parh parh alim fazil hoya, kadey apnay aap nun parhya … More
Rituals, customs, and traditions often form the backbone of a religion’s identity. Yet, if we strip these away, what remains … More
As the new year begins, the spotlight falls on Justin Trudeau’s announcement to step down as Canada’s prime minister once … More
Mohammad Rafi, the undisputed king of male playback singing in Hindi cinema for decades, had a profound and enduring love … More
The United States steadfastly holds its position as the world’s most powerful nation, wielding an unmatched defense budget of $811.6 … More
As the clock strikes midnight, the year 2024 slips into the archives of history, making way for the optimism of … More
In 2024, Promod Puri’s passion for writing evolved into a comprehensive exploration of diverse topics, including politics, philosophy, music, and societal issues like immigration and refugee crises. His articles reflect his engagement with legends and humanitarian themes, emphasizing rationalism and humanism while fostering dialogue and connection through his words.
If one has understood God through rituals and customs, then what has been understood is not God. The concept and … More
The author expresses the complexity of their social, religious, and political beliefs, rejecting rigid labels like Left, Right, or Centrist. Emphasizing a personal philosophy of evolving rationalism, they prioritize empathy, fairness, and respect for human dignity, navigating ideologies with a balance of flexibility and context-driven reasoning.
The human brain possesses an extraordinary ability to create vivid mental imagery, enabling us to envision experiences, characters, and spiritual symbols without direct sensory input. This creativity is pivotal in various aspects of life, including art and spirituality, as it allows for a deeper understanding and connection to both reality and the divine.
Today, December 23, commemorates the death anniversary of Noor Jehan, a legendary singer celebrated for her influence in India and Pakistan. Known as the “Queen of Melody,” her timeless songs evoke nostalgia and emotional depth. Noor Jehan’s legacy endures, uniting people through her enchanting music long after her passing in 2000.
The genesis of thought involves complex interactions among the brain’s 100 billion neurons, which communicate through synapses. However, the exact triggers and unique characteristics of thoughts remain unexplained. Three hypotheses suggest thoughts arise from subconscious activity, biological processes, or energy conversion. Understanding thought’s origins is vital for grasping its influence on destiny.
The use of time from waking to sleeping showcases our daily routines filled with work, leisure, and chores, highlighting the balance between productivity and idleness. With about 33% of life dedicated to sleep, the relevance of thoughts persists even during inactivity. Engaging in self-reflection can transform time into a journey of purpose.
Vancouver, often hailed as one of the world’s most liveable cities, faces a stark contrast with a growing homelessness crisis. Beneath its affluent surface, many individuals struggle for shelter amidst harsh winters. This dire situation highlights a troubling reality: the city’s reputation overlooks the plight of its most vulnerable residents, questioning who truly benefits from its accolades.
Political parties in democracies face a dilemma: whether to ground themselves in distinct ideologies or focus on good governance. While effective governance is crucial, it may not satisfy the deeper democratic aspirations for liberty and rights. The trend of prioritizing power over ideology threatens to undermine fundamental freedoms and democratic values globally.
India’s democracy is increasingly stifled by a pervasive culture of silence, with the middle class, film industry, educational institutions, and press becoming muted in their dissent. Fear tactics by the ruling leadership hinder free expression and democratic vitality. To revive democracy, citizens must courageously break this silence and collectively voice their concerns.
Poet Shailendra, renowned for his profound yet simple poetry, left a lasting impact on Hindi cinema alongside Raj Kapoor and Mukesh. His evocative songs, like ‘shikva’ to God, express deep human emotions. Shailendra’s legacy endures through timeless lyrics that resonate with joy and sorrow, celebrated posthumously with a commemorative stamp.
The piece explores the nature of consciousness and its relationship with physical matter, contrasting two theories: Dualism, which sees consciousness as an external force, and Panpsychism, which posits that consciousness exists inherently in all matter. Both theories suggest a fundamental interconnectedness, challenging perceptions of awareness in the universe.
The article discusses the declining popularity and credibility of Leftist ideologies globally, highlighting the struggles of socialist nations like Cuba and Venezuela under autocratic regimes. As people flee these countries, trust in socialist principles wanes, especially amid increasing Rightist influence. Honest leadership is deemed essential for socialism’s revival and relevance.
Zakir Hussain, the celebrated tabla maestro and five-time Grammy winner, passed away due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in San Francisco. His prolonged exposure to talcum powder, essential for tabla maintenance, likely contributed to his lung condition. IPF leads to irreversible lung damage, severely hindering respiratory function over time.
Polarization is a buzzword capturing the divisive dynamics of modern society, especially evident in political, social, and pandemic-related discussions. It creates conflict, transforming gatherings into debates, yet also promotes diverse viewpoints crucial for democracy. Ultimately, polarization embodies the extreme tensions of our times, alternating between being a hero and a villain.
“Sat-chit-ananda” represents truth, consciousness, and bliss, serving as a moral guide in Hindu philosophy. It emphasizes searching for truth, cultivating mindfulness, and acting righteously to achieve lasting fulfillment. This concept, central to Vedanta and Mimamsa, suggests that divine bliss emerges from aligning truth and awareness, fostering a meaningful life.
The content critiques Hindutva as a divisive political ideology, contrasting it with the inclusive philosophy of Hinduism. It highlights Hindutva’s roots in Savarkar’s narrow vision and its absurd claims about temples beneath historical structures. The author calls for rejection of such extremist beliefs, emphasizing true Hinduism’s focus on unity and tolerance.
The exploration of God’s essence challenges conventional beliefs, revealing that many view God as a human-like persona, leading to superficial faith. This ritualistic approach stifles deeper understanding. Instead, embracing God as a dynamic, functional institution fosters a rational connection, moving beyond fear-driven rituals towards genuine spiritual growth and awareness.
The American version of football has transformed significantly from its origins, resembling a uniquely shaped “ball” that is rarely kicked. While the global community refers to the sport as football, Americans call it soccer, leading to widespread confusion. The author humorously critiques the complexities and oddities of American football.
Maintenance is essential for personal health, gadgets, and society, acting as a preventative measure to avert larger crises. Whether managing physical possessions or nurturing relationships, maintenance ensures life functions smoothly. However, it also reflects societal issues, as imbalanced maintenance can perpetuate social inequalities. Embracing maintenance fosters balance and harmony in life.
World Toilet Day on November 19 highlights the urgent need for safe sanitation access, with 3.6 billion people lacking hygienic toilets. The UN aims for universal access by 2030. Issues like climate change and conflict exacerbate this sanitation crisis, leading to health risks and preventable deaths. It’s a crucial call for global action.
In this humorous dialogue between Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, Modi congratulates Trump and jokes about supporting him through religious rituals. They bond over their political slogans while discussing presidential pardons and Modi’s cultural practices, including cleansing sins in the Ganga River. The conversation highlights their friendship with playful banter.
It happened on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918: World War I, a … More
Does Canada really need a Department of Defense? Defense from whom, exactly? Who’s knocking at Canada’s borders? Is the U.S. … More
“It’s the economy, stupid” was a phrase coined by James Carville in 1992 when he was advising Bill Clinton on … More
In 2020, at the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was in a heated Facebook altercation with a friend over … More
Religions Need Freedom from Fanaticism Fanatic Hindu, fanatic Muslim, fanatic Sikh, fanatic Christian, fanatic Jew, fanatic Buddhist—labels like these are … More
The article by Promod Puri critiques the traditional attire of spiritual leaders, questioning the need for such elaborate garments. It suggests that these outfits serve as a means of marking identity rather than enhancing spiritual authority. The author shares a personal encounter with a cleanly dressed swami, highlighting that true enlightenment is rooted in knowledge, not clothing.
This has been my idea and firm conviction for a long time, perhaps since early adulthood: if no young man … More
By Promod Puri Growing up in India, ghee was the crown jewel of nutrition—loaded not just with fats but also … More
Guru Nanak Dev’s Aarti transcends mere ritual, celebrating the cosmos as a divine spectacle. His hymn encapsulates nature’s elements in a celestial concert, inviting a universal spiritual experience. The Aarti represents interconnectedness, promoting unity in diversity, reflecting Tagore’s vision of it as an anthem for all humanity, encouraging recognition of the divine in everyday beauty.
Canada’s multicultural landscape has embraced Indian culture through the widespread availability of traditional foods like Golgappe, samosas, and dosas in major retailers. Celebrations such as Diwali and Vaisakhi are acknowledged, and Indian cinema influences Canadian entertainment. This fusion illustrates a vibrant connection to Indian roots within Canada, enriching its cultural mosaic.
O.P. Nayyar, a revolutionary Bollywood composer from the 1950s and 1960s, defied industry norms and created a unique sound fusing Western instruments with Indian melodies. Known for his energetic tracks and memorable tunes, his music remains popular today. A generous soul in his later years, he left a lasting legacy celebrated through continued appreciation of his evergreen hits.
The content reflects on the fleeting nature of time, emphasizing that the past feels immediate while the future seems far away. It highlights the paradox where time quickly turns potential into missed opportunities. The message encourages living in the present and appreciating each moment, as time is a precious, limited experience.
The world faces unprecedented violence and turmoil across various regions, highlighted by the Gaza conflict, where escalating military actions lead to civilian suffering. Simultaneously, the Russia-Ukraine war continues, and Africa struggles with military coups. Nature also retaliates, as disasters compound human crises, driving millions to flee and amplifying global suffering.
Pierre Poilievre, Canada’s opposition leader, is noted for his coarse language and exaggerated rhetoric, resembling former U.S. President Trump’s style. His unsubstantiated criticisms target opponents like NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and government ministers, while lacking nuance. Such bombastic tactics may energize his supporters but undermine civil political discourse.
The author reflects on personal responsibility in the climate crisis, admitting that individual consumption habits contribute significantly to environmental destruction. Despite vocal criticism of corporations and policymakers, the writer recognizes their own hypocrisy in demanding change while perpetuating harmful practices. Real solutions to the crisis begin with personal accountability.
On October 3, 1990, a divided Germany took a historic leap—West Germany and East Germany reunited after 45 years of … More
Isn’t it intriguing how, in Iran, women are boldly defying the hijab and burqa, rejecting what they see as symbols … More
For all the noise surrounding the abolition of Article 370, it turns out the issue barely made a ripple in … More
The soulful, melodic refrain of “Aawaz de kahan hai” lures and audibly resides in me like a musical treasure that’s … More
I’m still wrapping my head around it—how on earth is Donald Trump still eligible to run for the U.S. presidency? … More
Carbon dioxide (CO2) often takes center stage in the climate change conversation and with good reason. While it only makes … More
Pierre Poilievre may not look like Donald Trump, but he sure acts like him. Just listen to the Conservative Party … More
Protecting The Planet Is Not Just An Obligation- It Is A Form Of Devotion Hindu worship goes beyond the walls … More
Is the term “Dalit” derogatory? Absolutely not. It’s far more than just a label for people outside the traditional four … More
The dictionary defines “default” as a failure to act, a sort of inaction. But in today’s world, the expression “default … More
Centuries ago, migration was a natural course of life. People moved from one place to another, driven by natural calamities, … More
“BHAGVAN KA DIYA SUBB KUCHCH HAI, BUT I DON’T KNOW WHERE I PUT IT” !! “Bhagvan ka diya se subb … More
The moon, or Chanda Mama, holds a cherished place in Indian culture, symbolizing love, magic, and nostalgia. Since childhood, Indians are familiar with this celestial figure, often depicted in folklore and Bollywood songs. The moon serves as a romantic muse, enriching the narratives of Hindi cinema with its presence across numerous iconic melodies.
Religion, at its core, is just a vehicle. It is supposed to deliver the goods of spirituality, ethics, and morality … More
My working career in Winnipeg kicked off from the dizzying heights of scaffolding—balanced precariously between running the till at 7-Eleven, … More
It was October—Winnipeg had a sweet chill in the air, a prelude to the harsher “sweet chills” to come. I … More
Yes, they do. And they should. Crying isn’t a “feminine” thing that men should fear or suppress. Take a moment … More
There is not enough time for the simple pleasure of doing nothing—a rare luxury that starkly contrasts with merely killing … More
I want to extend my heartfelt salute to the unsung heroes of our city—the trash collectors who roam the back … More
From surfing the tidal wave of options on Netflix to navigating the labyrinth of a Chinese restaurant menu, life seems … More
In Sikhism, the ego is seen not just as a flaw but as one of the five cardinal sins, known … More
In 1989, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, issued a fatwa calling for the death of Salman … More
Kamala Harris delivered a fiery speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, packing enough emotion and sentimentality to fill … More
The notion that the modern world evolved in the confines of Europe and started in the 17th to 20th centuries … More
Archana Venkatesan, University of California, Davis Ever since Vice President Kamala Harris became a presence on the national scene, her … More
– a neurologist explains what happens when it stops working Danielle Wilhour, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF, … More
Brace yourself for the annual spectacle of patriotism and pageantry as Pakistan and India light up August 14th and 15th … More
by Promod Puri When it comes to my social, religious, and political sentiments, they shape how I see the world. … More
I’ve been anti-national since I first grasped the true nature of what it means to pledge allegiance to a country. … More
While wars rage, poverty spreads, and basic necessities like clean water and functional hospitals remain a distant dream for many, … More
“Everything Matters, Nothing Is Important.” Recently, I spotted this graffiti in Vancouver’s poorest and run-down area. And the message intrigued … More
In India, the “Vahan Puja” is a ceremonial welcome for new cars, akin to a vehicle christening. Conducted by a priest, it involves rituals like washing the car, chanting mantras, and blessings for safety. The ceremony culminates with breaking a coconut for good fortune, reflecting India’s rich cultural traditions.
by Promod Puri Knowledge, for the most part, is created, developed and distributed. At this helm, we can discern its … More
The cries of humans suffering from poverty, starvation, disease, and epidemics, the devastation of global warming, the desperation of migrants … More
Sad songs, happy songs, and lively and festive songs have been integral to Hindi films. During the Golden Era of … More
We often discuss the environment, global warming, and related issues, but individual actions can significantly contribute to a better, more … More
Trudeau must quit because he dares to create a welcoming environment for refugees and new immigrants. Building walls and closing … More
Should we blame nations for initiating wars, battles, or violent conflicts or hold individuals accountable for sparking these fires? Historically, … More
In Hinduism, temples, public or home shrines, and the worship of natural elements are integral to ceremonial and spiritual practices. … More
When events unfold before our eyes or are reported through trustworthy sources, yet we deny them as non-events, we may … More
Jamal Barnes, Edith Cowan University Earlier this month, Narendra Modi was elected India’s prime minister for the third consecutive time. … More
467 East 11th Ave. is not just a location but a living testament to the rich history of the Indo-Canadian … More
Fascism is a political system led by a dictator who exerts complete control over a nation. To maintain this power, … More
In Hindu and Sikh religious activities, Satsang is a popular religious tradition. It is group participation that involves listening to … More
The perception that ethnic communities create ghettos and bring along old baggage while settling in Canada is a stereotyped conception. … More
By Promod Puri Paldi, named after a small town in Hoshiarpur District of Punjab, is located about seven miles southwest … More
Consciousness is the most crucial aspect of our lives, certifying us as living beings fully aware of our internal states … More
By Promod Puri The sweeping dominance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, characterized by anti-Muslim rhetoric, anti-secularism, anti-democratic stances, and … More
“Sat-chit-ananda” is a profound spiritual concept in Hindu philosophy that encapsulates the essence of divine contentment and bliss. This three-word … More
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