As the glow of Diwali lights glowed this past week, marking the triumph of light over darkness, I found myself reflecting on how Hinduism impacts my life. One of the rituals associated with Diwali is the prayer session to the gods. These prayers serve as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and spiritual connections. The emphasis on gratitude, mindfulness, and honesty are inherent in Hindu practices and it influences the way I approach challenges and interact with others. 

My Hinduism offers me a collective identity as well as creating diversity in America. If I have children, I know that I will pass on these practices and cultural values and teachings. Hinduism, with its ancient wisdom and profound teachings, has intricately woven its threads into the fabric of my life, shaping my beliefs, values. For me, it’s not just about belief, it is about practice. Hinduism is a guiding philosophy that resonates in the depths of my soul, providing me with a sense of purpose and connection to the universe, guiding how I act in my everyday life. 

Where I live in NJ, they are building the second largest Hindu temple in the world, and we welcome people who want to learn more about Hinduism as a way of life. For me, there are three philosophies that shape my perspective and the way I think.  

One of the central values of Hinduism is the concept of dharma – the righteous duty or moral responsibility that governs our actions. Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of leading a life aligned with dharma, encouraging me to make choices that contribute to the greater good and uphold ethical principles. For example, being truthful to yourself and others so as not to put anyone in harm’s way is a principle of dharma. This understanding of what is good has become the compass by which I navigate the complexities of life, offering clarity in moments where there might be ambiguity. One day, I found myself part of a group project where my classmates proposed a shortcut to success that involved plagiarism. The pressure to perform well academically was intense, and the temptation to go along with the plan lingered in the air. In that moment, my understanding of dharma, which emphasized honesty, integrity, and the importance of hard work, became my guiding compass. I felt a surge of internal conflict as I weighed the short-term benefits against the long-term consequences of compromising my principles. Reflecting on the teachings and values instilled in me, I realized that taking the path of honesty and hard work was more aligned with my understanding of what is truly good. Despite the ambiguity and the social pressure to conform, my commitment to dharma provided clarity. I decided to address the issue with my group, suggesting an alternative approach that involved putting in the necessary effort and showcasing our individual strengths.

Karma is another value that shapes my perspective. The philosophy of karma states that our actions carry consequences, and serves as a constant reminder to act with mindfulness and intention. Karma compels me to consider the actions of my choices on my immediate surroundings. The Bhagavad Gita, a book of Hindu scripture, emerged as a guiding light, offering insights into resilience and self discovery. The Gita's counsel to perform one's duties without attachment to the results became a mantra that I internalized, providing me with the strength to persevere with determination. For example, volunteering is not about the results or achievements. Instead, it’s about helping people and putting the focus on the other person more than yourself. Karma reminds me that the good I do will come back to me in some new way, but also the unkind or hurtful things. Every day, I try to remind myself to do more positive things because at the end, more positive results will come to me because I’ve helped my brother with homework or completing my homework assignments without cheating. 

Furthermore, Hinduism's emphasis on meditation and introspection has become an integral part of my daily routine. Once a week, I do a series of yoga poses and recite affirmations. I usually do this for about an hour without music. Each time I do this, I can connect to a different deity, but I am most connected to Hanuman. Sometimes, I ask for help, or praise his strengths. The practice of connecting with the divine through meditation allows me to delve into the depths of my consciousness, fostering self-awareness and a sense of inner peace. In a fast-paced world filled with noise and distraction, these moments have become a sanctuary, offering refuge and rejuvenation for my mind and spirit.

Hinduism has not only shaped my worldview. It prompts me to view challenges as opportunities for growth, to approach others with compassion. As I walk the path illuminated by the wisdom of Hinduism, I am not merely a follower of a faith; I am a seeker of truth. Hinduism has shaped my life and has taught me valuable lessons.