"So Parmarth seems to be more of a ‘city’ ashram, then, rather than a traditional ‘forest’ ashram, wouldn’t you agree?” the interviewer queries. He is a young man from Bombay doing a story on Rishikesh, gurus and the spiritual path in general.
He’s come to Parmarth Niketan to take my interview regarding the ashram, its activities, the types of people who come and other topics. However, from this question I realize he has completely misunderstood not only Parmarth Niketan but the fundamental truth of the traditional ashrams of Rishikesh. “No,” I explain. “It’s not a city ashram. It’s a traditional forest ashram, actually, based upon all the principles of traditional Indian spiritual practice. However, a city has grown up around it.” The exodus of pilgrims and seekers to Rishikesh in the last two or three decades has turned this quiet village-like refuge of ashrams into a veritable city. But the city which has erected itself in front of, behind and around these ashrams does not change the nature of the ashrams themselves. The ashrams still are, in most cases, traditional Indian spiritual communities, places where sincere seekers can study yoga, meditation, the scriptures and the inner workings of their own minds. This distinction, between the traditional and the modern, the forest and the city, the Western and the Eastern is one that must not be lost as the holy cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh quickly become refuges for seekers from every corner of the Earth.
この記事は BUSINESS ECONOMICS の August 16 - 31, 2018 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は BUSINESS ECONOMICS の August 16 - 31, 2018 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
Elections 2024: Illusion & Reality
Whenever there is an election, we find the politicians speaking in hyperboles – and possibly, 2024 Lok Sabha has reached a crest.
Government initiatives aim to bolster rubber cultivation and innovation
Rubber tree plantation has seen significant growth in India, thanks to robust government oversight and favorable weather conditions.
Macron speaks on Europe's economic fragility
Many heads of state often speak on topics over which they have little control or vested interest.
Indian industries stand to benefit in raising of tariff on Chinese imports to the US
A delicate balance of power and influence exists between the United States of America and China.
Chabahar Port Agreement: Part of India's strategic and economic vision for Central Asia and Europe
On May 13, India and Iran signed a 10-year contract to operate the Chabahar port in Iran.
It is quite incredible to see things of interest happen with the blessings of the divine trio
Swamiji once said, “The wind of divine grace is always blowing. You just need to spread your sail.
The battle for sustainability: Earth Day's message of 'Planet vs. Plastics
World Earth Day, observed annually on April 22 worldwide, commemorates contemporary environmental advancements and promotes awareness of the imperative to conserve Earth and its resources.
Mother Teresa International Award 2024: Celebrating Humanity and Service
The Mother Teresa International Award, a prestigious honor recognizing individuals dedicated to serving humanity, will host its 2024 ceremony in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Can India get out of the middle income trap?
In the mid-1980s, international financial institutions moved away from calling their member countries as poor and rich countries, or as developed and less developed countries.
How is India's falling household savings rate worrisome for its development?
There has been a sharp reduction in the household net financial savings rate in 2022-23, leading to an overall decline in the financial savings rate.