Why the way we talk about Hinduism needs to change

Why the way we talk about Hinduism needs to change

Author: Hindu American Foundation March 13, 2025 Duration: 19:27

A special crossover episode from our sibling show All About Hinduism: One of the underlying themes in the first series of episodes of All About Hinduism is that this spiritual tradition is often misunderstood by those people outside of it. Some of this misunderstanding is basic exposure to Hinduism and Hindus. But sometimes, we Hindus ourselves are unwittingly to blame. If we want non-Hindus to better understand Hinduism and we want to ourselves better understand Hinduism, the way in which we talk about Hinduism needs to change. 


Missed the first series of episodes of All About Hinduism? Start here on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.  



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


Exploring the vibrant intersection of ancient tradition and modern American life, That's So Hindu offers a series of conversations that feel more like insightful dialogues than formal interviews. Each episode sits down with a diverse range of voices-from entrepreneurs and activists to artists, professors, and policymakers-to uncover the personal and profound ways Hindu philosophy and culture influence their daily actions and broader contributions to society. This podcast, presented by the Hindu American Foundation, delves into how timeless principles like dharma, seva, and mindfulness are being lived out in contemporary careers, creative pursuits, and community engagement. Listeners will hear personal narratives and thoughtful reflections that challenge stereotypes, offering a nuanced look at identity, spirituality, and resilience. The discussions naturally reveal how these individuals navigate their dual heritage, integrating spiritual grounding into their work in technology, social justice, the arts, and academia. It’s a unique auditory space where the richness of Hindu thought meets the complex tapestry of American experience, providing depth and perspective often missing from mainstream conversations. Through these authentic stories, the podcast builds a compelling portrait of a dynamic community, its values, and its evolving impact.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 161

That's So Hindu
Podcast Episodes
Swamis Speak: Swami Ishwarananda [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:55
In this installment of our Swami's Speak series, Suhag Shukla talks with Chinmaya Mission's Swami Ishwarananda about the role of spiritual teachers in modern society, the importance of building Hindu communities and not…
Dena Merriam digs into her past lives and the future of Hinduism [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:34
Suhag Shukla talks with Dena Merriam, author and interfaith activist ("My Journey Through Time: A Spiritual Memoir of Life, Death, and Rebirth; "The Untold Story of Sita: An Empowering Tale For Our Time"; Global Peace In…
KASHMIR EXODUS DAY SPECIAL - Sunanda Vashisht [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:29
In this special episode on the 30th anniversary of the Kashmir Pandit Exodus, Suhag Shukla talks with writer, columnist, and political commentator Sunanda Vashisht (https://myind.net) about her experience of what life wa…
Rajiv Satyal is the Man in the Middle of US politics, and comedy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:59
Samir Kalra speaks with comedian Rajiv Satyal ("Make Chai Not War" tour, "I Am Indian") about the intersection of his family-friendly stand-up act and the not-so family-friendly world of US politics, how his work is rece…