Indic Studies with Professor Pankaj Jain, Ph.D.

Within Jainism, an ancient Indian religion based on nonviolence (ahimsā), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and austerity, farming and flora hold a complex and nuanced place. Although the teachings of Jainism emphasize compassion for all living things (Jain, 2021), Jains face moral dilemmas when it comes to farming, as it involves harming insects, soil organisms, and plants. Although no Jain would imagine slaughtering their livestock to sell meat, tilling the land to grow food may or may not be considered violent, as we will see in this essay. This study examines how Jains reconcile their agricultural practices with their religious teachings by analyzing the historical, theological, and cultural perspectives on flora and farming. This article sheds light on Jainism's distinctive response to the ethical and environmental challenges of agricultural life by examining scriptures, moral discourse, and modern practices related to vegetation. The essay's final section explores a related issue of plants and trees. It emphasizes how deeply Jainism reveres plants and trees, seeing them as representations of spiritual power, patience, and optimism. All 24 Tīrthaṅkaras, fordmakers, achieved enlightenment under particular tree species, each of which is named and revered. As part of Jainism's spiritual and ethical obligations, the section emphasizes environmental preservation and tree planting, promoting sensitivity toward nature.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan — philosopher, teacher, President of India, and Bharat Ratna — believed that Indian philosophy is not just about ancient texts but a living guide for life, truth, and the self.This short video celebrates his timeless message: that knowledge, humility, and compassion form the true essence of life. It also shares how his humility gave birth to Teachers' Day — a tribute to the spirit of learning and teaching.Discover how Radhakrishnan's wisdom continues to inspire the modern world. Explore. Reflect. Grow.#IndianPhilosophy #Radhakrishnan #BharatRatna #TeachersDay #Dharma #WisdomOfIndia #PhilosophyOfLife #Inspiration #Shorts#Radhakrishnan #IndianPhilosophy #BharatRatna #TeachersDay #PhilosophyOfIndia #WisdomOfIndia #Vedanta #HinduPhilosophy #Motivation #Inspiration #Education #LifeLessons #PhilosophyOfLife #Shorts

Where did the mighty cry Vande Mataram come from? This short video delves into the true story behind India's most inspiring song and its profound roots in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's 1882 novel, Anand Math. The novel portrayed ascetic warriors rising against oppression, chanting “Vande Mataram” as a call to awaken the spirit of Bharat Mata and Dharma.We also examine how the 1952 film Anand Math brought this story to life on screen, featuring Lata Mangeshkar's unforgettable rendition of Vande Mataram. The video connects the novel, the song, and the film to India's freedom movement and national identity.What is the meaning of Vande Mataram? Why was Anand Math so essential for India's awakening? How did this song unite the nation before independence? Watch till the end to find out how Vande Mataram became more than just a song — it became the soul of India.#VandeMataram #AnandMath #BankimChandra #BharatMata #LataMangeshkar #IndianFreedomMovement #AnandMath1952 #VandeMataramMeaning #IndianHistory #Dharma #IndianCinema #PatrioticSongs #IndiaIndependence #SpiritualNationalism #VandeMataramStory

Who was Rabindranath Tagore, and why is his book Gitanjali so special? In 1913, Tagore became the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature for Gitanjali, a collection of deeply spiritual poems written originally in Bengali. This short video explores the meaning of Gitanjali, its most beautiful lines, such as “Where the mind is without fear” and “Thou hast made me endless,” and how Tagore's words continue to inspire readers worldwide.Learn about Tagore's message of universal love, humanism, and the divine in everyday life. Discover why Gitanjali is considered one of the greatest works of modern Indian literature.#RabindranathTagore, #Gitanjali, #FirstAsianNobelPrize

What did Veer Savarkar mean by the “Six Golden Pages” or “Six Glorious Epochs” of Indian history? In this short video, discover how Savarkar redefined Indian history through six powerful moments, from Chandragupta and Chanakya's unification to Shivaji's Maratha resurgence and India's freedom struggle.We explore Savarkar's vision of Indian pride, courage, and unity across these six epochs that he called the golden pages of Bharat's history.Who was Veer Savarkar?What are Savarkar's six glorious epochs?Why did Savarkar call them golden pages of Indian history?What lessons do Savarkar's six epochs teach us today?How did Savarkar interpret India's freedom struggle?#Savarkar #VeerSavarkar #IndianHistory #SixGloriousEpochs #SixGoldenPages #RealIndianHistory #SavarkarExplained #HistoryOfIndia #Shivaji #Chanakya #ChandraguptaMaurya #GuptaEmpire #MarathaEmpire #FreedomStruggle #IndianFreedom #BharatHistory #SavarkarThoughts #IndianPride #HistoricalIndia #SavarkarLegacy

Why are Rajagopalachari's Ramayana and Mahabharata still the most popular retellings of India's great epics? What makes Rajaji's storytelling so powerful, simple, and spiritual at the same time? Discover how Rajaji brought the wisdom of the Ramayana and Mahabharata to modern readers. This is perfect for anyone seeking to understand Indian philosophy, dharma, and the deeper meaning of life through these epic stories.#Ramayana #Mahabharata

Swami Vivekananda's speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893, changed the course of history. His message of peace, spirituality, and universal brotherhood inspired millions around the world. After returning to India, he delivered his famous lectures from Colombo to Almora, awakening a new national consciousness. These talks continue to motivate readers to rediscover Indian philosophy, Vedanta, and the true meaning of selfless service. Why are his lectures still relevant today? How can they guide modern life? Watch this short to find out.#SwamiVivekananda #indianphilosophy

From Mandalay Jail, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak wrote Gita Rahasya — a bold reinterpretation of the Bhagavad Gita.

In 1909, Mahatma Gandhi wrote Hind Swaraj — a book that redefined freedom. It wasn't just about removing the British; it was about self-rule, simplicity, and spiritual strength. Over a century later, Gandhi's warning against blind modernity still feels prophetic.Watch this short to rediscover what real Swaraj means today.#Gandhi #HindSwaraj #Freedom #IndianPhilosophy #MahatmaGandhi #Swaraj #HistoryShorts #DharmicEcology #India #SelfRule #PhilosophyShorts #Inspiration #GandhiJayanti

In this chapter, Shri Krishna explores the nature of faith (śhraddhā) and its influence on thought, action, and devotion. He explains how faith shapes:Our dietary and lifestyle choicesThe quality and purpose of charityThe efficacy of rituals and austeritiesThe proper way to offer devotion to the divineChapter 17 distinguishes between the three types of faith—sattvic (pure), rajasic (passionate), and tamasic (ignorant)—and their corresponding effects on life and spiritual practice. This episode offers a detailed commentary and practical insights to apply Krishna's timeless wisdom in modern living.✨ Listen now and deepen your understanding of faith, action, and devotion.#BhagavadGita #ShraddhaTrayaVibhagaYoga #SpiritualWisdom #FaithInAction #OmTatSat

Join this comprehensive course on Jainism, offered by UGC's SWAYAM and hosted by FLAME University. Designed for learners of all levels, this course offers an accessible and engaging exploration of the philosophy, ethics, history, and practices of Jainism.What you'll learn:Core principles: Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and AnekantavadaLife and teachings of Lord MahaviraJain festivals, rituals, and monastic traditionsApplying Jain philosophy in everyday lifePerfect for students, spiritual seekers, and anyone curious about one of the world's oldest living traditions.Enroll today and start your journey into Jainism!Hashtags:#Jainism #SWAYAM #FLAMEUniversity #IndianPhilosophy #Mahavira #Ahimsa #SpiritualLearning #IntroToJainism #UGCCourse

In this chapter, Lord Krishna reveals the difference between **divine qualities (daivī sampad)** such as fearlessness, compassion, truth, and humility — and **demonic qualities (āsurī sampad)** such as pride, anger, greed, and hypocrisy.

Explore the rich spiritual traditions of Asia!

This episode features the recording of a webinar held on August 20, 2025, hosted by The India Centre at FLAME University, under the UGC–sponsored Nurturing Future Leadership Program.Speaker Prof. Pankaj Jain explores how India's timeless dharmic wisdom—from the symbolic wisdom of Gaṇeśa to the ethical insights of the BhagavaGītātā—offers ten guiding principles for ethical, sustainable, and future-ready leadership.Key Themes Covered:Wisdom, Duty, and Compassion as core leadership valuesInsights from Gaṇeśa and the thGītātā for modern challengesHow dharmic principles foster inclusive, ethical, and resilient leaders

What if the solution to our modern ecological crisis lies in ancient wisdom?Discover how the Sanskrit word 'Dharma' (धर्म) originates from the root 'Dhri' (धृ), meaning "to sustain." Long before "sustainability" became a global buzzword, Vedic philosophy spoke of 'Ritam' (ऋतम्) – the cosmic order maintained through harmony with the universe.From prayers asking Mother Earth for forgiveness to the principles of Ahimsa (अहिंसा) in Jainism and mindfulness in Buddhism, learn how Indian traditions have ingrained a deep reverence for nature for millennia.#Sustainability #Dharma #IndianPhilosophy #VedicWisdom #Ritam #Ecology #MotherEarth #AncientWisdom #Hinduism #Jainism #Buddhism #Shorts#Sustainability #Dharma #IndianPhilosophy #AncientWisdom #Ecology #Vedic #Ritam #MotherEarth#Shorts #YouTubeShorts #Knowledge #DidYouKnow #Spiritual #Environment #Trending#SanatanaDharma #Jainism #Buddhism #Hinduism #Ahimsa #VasudhaivaKutumbakam #Sanskrit #CosmicOrder #ReverenceForNatureJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgyYA6fXrfCcTQsvEyCLTbg/joinProfessor Pankaj Jain, Ph.D.

The webinar featured Professor Michael Hatchet discussing "Prayer in the Periphery" on August 25, 2025. He explored the philosophical challenge of "praying without ceasing" as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 5:17.Key points covered:The problem: How can one pray continuously when daily tasks require full attention?Professor Hatchet introduced a framework analyzing consciousness as having three parts:He proposed that continuous prayer might be possible through "peripheral listening" - maintaining awareness of God in the margin of consciousness rather than the center or context. This allows one to remain receptive to divine communication while engaged in necessary tasks.The discussion included parallels with Hindu concepts, noting similarities between Christian prayer and bhakti yoga (devotional practices). Professor Jain highlighted how the topic connects to both dualistic perspectives (where God and devotee are separate) and non-dualistic perspectives in Hinduism.The session concluded with reflections on comparative theology between Christianity and Hinduism, acknowledging Christianity's long history in India dating back nearly two millennia.Professor Michael Hatcher earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Southern California. He has taught at Valparaiso University in Indiana—literally meaning 'Vale of Paradise'—and now teaches at FLAME University in Pune, also nestled in a scenic valley. His academic journey, therefore, has moved between valleys, both geographical and intellectual, exploring the depths of philosophy and theology. In this webinar, he spoke on a fascinating theme: 'Prayer in the Periphery.' Drawing from philosophical theology and phenomenology, Professor Hatcher will explore the possibility of unceasing prayer as envisioned in 1 Thessalonians 5:17.Interestingly, the name Thessalonica—from which Thessalonians come—means 'Victory of Thessaly' in Greek, with nikē meaning victory. This resonates with the Sanskrit words jaya and vijaya, which also mean victory. Such linguistic resonances remind us of the deep Indo-European heritage shared by Greek and Sanskrit, bridging traditions and contexts much like Professor Hatcher does in his work. Through the lens of contextual and marginal awareness—as articulated by Gurwitsch and Arvidson—he will invite us to reflect on how individuals might attune themselves to the divine voice while navigating the rhythms of everyday life . Valleys are often places of learning and reflection, where depth of thought can flourish. From Valparaiso, the 'Vale of Paradise,' to the valley setting of FLAME University, Professor Hatcher's path has been marked by such spaces of contemplation. In this lecture, he invites us into another kind of valley — the philosophical and theological exploration of unceasing prayer in everyday life.

Did you know that Christians have been a part of Indian cinema since before India's first full-length film was made?

Hindu–Muslim Harmony in Hindi Films #ashortaday #explore #viralvideo #Bollywood #hindumuslim

Eight Indian #Champions at #Wimbledon since 1954 #ashortaday #explore #viralvideo #LeanderPaes #MaheshBhupathi #SaniaMirza #SumitNagal #RamanathanKrishnan #RameshKrishnan #SamirBanerjee #RohanBopanna

Stay tuned for layers.The much-awaited episode 4 of Naturally Musical - a venture Professor Pankaj Jain and Shri Manoj Govindraj have undertaken to share the often simple yet layered thoughts behind eco-friendly songs in Indian films

Reason #3: Spread of Buddhism

Reason #2: Spread of Buddhism Across Asia

Reason #3: Decline of Buddhism in India

Spread of Buddhism Beyond India: Reason #1

Decline of Buddhism #8

Reason #7: Decline of Buddhism in India 7th century CE onwards

Verse 1- From this episode:श्रीभगवानुवाचइदं शरीरं कौन्तेय क्षेत्रमित्यभिधीयते ।एतद्यो वेत्ति तं प्राहु: क्षेत्रज्ञ इति तद्विद: ॥00:00 Introduction & Invocation00:10 verses 1- 708:02 verses 8 - 1419:59 verses 15 - 2129:45 verses 22-2826:08 verse 29- 34Tune in every Sunday for a new episode of the philological and philosophical analysis of the Bhagavad Gita!Texts referenced in the series:1.⁠ ⁠Gītā Rahasya by Lokmanya Tilak2.⁠ ⁠Gītā Discourses by Osho3.⁠ ⁠Gītā Discourses by Rev. Athavale Dadaji4.⁠ ⁠Gītā interpretation by Mahatma Gandhi5.⁠ ⁠Gītā commentary by Adi Shankaracharya6.⁠ ⁠Sargeant Winthrop and Christopher Key Chapple. The Bhagavad Gītā. State University of New York Press 2009.7.⁠ ⁠Goldman Robert P and Sally J Sutherland. Devavāṇīpraveśikā : An Introduction to the Sanskrit Language. 3rd ed. Center for South Asia Studies University of California: 1999. Press, 2009.8.⁠ ⁠The Bhagavad Gītā - Selected Shlokas set to Music (2-CD Set), sung by Ravindra Sathe and team, music by Vanraj Bhatia, album by Music Today, 2009.Gita app based on Sri Aurobindo's commentary:Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.org.bhagavadgita&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/bhagavad-gita-sri-aurobindo/id1143882659

Reason #6: Decline of Buddhism in India

Reason #5 - Decline of Buddhism in India from 7th c. CE onwards

Reason #4: Decline of Buddhism in India

Reason #2: Decline of Buddhism from India over 1000 years back

Verse 2 - From this episode:न मे विदु: सुरगणा: प्रभवं न महर्षय: ।अहमादिर्हि देवानां महर्षीणां च सर्वश: ॥Tune in every Sunday for a new episode of the philological and philosophical analysis of the Bhagavad Gita!Texts referenced in the series:1. Gītā Rahasya by Lokmanya Tilak2. Gītā Discourses by Osho3. Gītā Discourses by Rev. Athavale Dadaji4. Gītā interpretation by Mahatma Gandhi5. Gītā commentary by Adi Shankaracharya6. Sargeant Winthrop and Christopher Key Chapple. The Bhagavad Gītā. State University of New York Press 2009.7. Goldman Robert P and Sally J Sutherland. Devavāṇīpraveśikā : An Introduction to the Sanskrit Language. 3rd ed. Center for South Asia Studies University of California: 1999.Press, 2009.8. The Bhagavad Gītā - Selected Shlokas set to Music (2-CD Set), sung by Ravindra Sathe and team, music by Vanraj Bhatia, album by Music Today, 2009.Gita app based on Sri Aurobindo's commentary:Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.org.bhagavadgita&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/bhagavad-gita-sri-aurobindo/id1143882659

Verse 1 - From this Chapter:अर्जुन उवाचमदनुग्रहाय परमं गुह्यमध्यात्मसंज्ञितम् ।यत्त्वयोक्तं वचस्तेन मोहोऽयं विगतो मम ॥Tune in every Sunday for a new episode of the philological and philosophical analysis of the Bhagavad Gita!Texts referenced in the series:1. Gītā Rahasya by Lokmanya Tilak2. Gītā Discourses by Osho3. Gītā Discourses by Rev. Athavale Dadaji4. Gītā interpretation by Mahatma Gandhi5. Gītā commentary by Adi Shankaracharya6. Sargeant Winthrop and Christopher Key Chapple. The Bhagavad Gītā. State University of New York Press 2009.7. Goldman Robert P and Sally J Sutherland. Devavāṇīpraveśikā : An Introduction to the Sanskrit Language. 3rd ed. Center for South Asia Studies University of California: 1999.Press, 2009.8. The Bhagavad Gītā - Selected Shlokas set to Music (2-CD Set), sung by Ravindra Sathe and team, music by Vanraj Bhatia, album by Music Today, 2009.Gita app based on Sri Aurobindo's commentary:Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.org.bhagavadgita&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/bhagavad-gita-sri-aurobindo/id1143882659

Verse 20 - From this episode:ये तु धर्मामृतमिदं यथोक्तं पर्युपासते ।श्रद्दधाना मत्परमा भक्तास्तेऽतीव मे प्रिया: ॥Tune in every Sunday for a new episode of the philological and philosophical analysis of the Bhagavad Gita!Texts referenced in the series:1. Gītā Rahasya by Lokmanya Tilak2. Gītā Discourses by Osho3. Gītā Discourses by Rev. Athavale Dadaji4. Gītā interpretation by Mahatma Gandhi5. Gītā commentary by Adi Shankaracharya6. Sargeant Winthrop and Christopher Key Chapple. The Bhagavad Gītā. State University of New York Press 2009.7. Goldman Robert P and Sally J Sutherland. Devavāṇīpraveśikā : An Introduction to the Sanskrit Language. 3rd ed. Center for South Asia Studies University of California: 1999.Press, 2009.8. The Bhagavad Gītā - Selected Shlokas set to Music (2-CD Set), sung by Ravindra Sathe and team, music by Vanraj Bhatia, album by Music Today, 2009.Gita app based on Sri Aurobindo's commentary:Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=in.org.bhagavadgita&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/in/app/bhagavad-gita-sri-aurobindo/id1143882659

Significance of Namokar Mantra in Jainism

Why Buddhism Vanished from India over 1000 years back: Reason 1

Caste and Varna System in Hindu Society: A Webinar for Indus University

Jainism, often regarded as a renunciatory tradition rooted in nonviolence and monastic life, has profoundly shaped the lives of contemporary women balancing roles as householders, social activists, and ascetics. Prof. Howard will delve into the inspiring stories of these women, highlighting how they are redefining the concept of liberation, championing empowerment, and striving for the upliftment of marginalized communities. Through this discussion, she will provide fresh perspectives on gender and its intersection with contemporary societal challenges.

Jainism's Political Thoughts

Why Kumbh?

Dr. BR Ambedkar is rightly remembered for his role in creating the Indian Constitution and for his outspoken anti-caste views. Less known is how many of his views on hot-button political issues in India today align far more with those of so-called Hindu nationalists than his contemporary supporters would have you believe. In this episode, we speak with Dr Pankaj Jain about the unknown Ambedkar.

Buddhism in 3 Versions

How old is Christianity in India? 2000 years?

Judaism & Jews in India

Lotus Temple, Bahai, and Zoroastrianism in India: Two religions started in Iran, flourishing in India

Join Swami Medhananda, Monk of the Ramakrishna Order, an Academic Philosopher, and Senior Research Fellow in Philosophy at the Vedanta Society of Southern California for a thought-provoking session on "From Religious Pluralism to Religious Cosmopolitanism: Revisiting Sri Ramakrishna & Swami Vivekananda." Explore the profound philosophies of the Bengali mystic Sri Ramakrishna (1836–1886), who taught the timeless dictum, “As many faiths, so many paths.” Ramakrishna upheld that various religions, while different, are equally effective paths to the ultimate goal of experiential knowledge of the Infinite Divine, whether as a personal God, the Buddhist nirvāṇa, or the Advaitic realization of nondual Pure Consciousness. His teachings challenge monolithic views of religious pluralism and affirm the equal value of multiple spiritual goals. Swami Vivekananda, his chief disciple, expanded these ideas into a radical religious cosmopolitanism, advocating the ideal of learning from other religions and fostering multiple religious belongings.

Accomplishments by American Jains to preserve and share Jainism worldwide

Makar Sankranti and its significance

Beatles Connection to Indian Music and Hinduism

Join Prof. B. M. Jain, Former Senior Political Science and International Relations Professor at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, for a thought-provoking session on India's Role as a Global Player in a Complex Interdependent World Order: A Critique. Explore India's potential as an emerging global power in shaping a multipolar world order—one that challenges unilateralism and hegemonism. Delve into critical questions about India's role in advancing the Global South, addressing security and strategic challenges, reshaping the UN Security Council, and resolving ethnic and religious conflicts in South Asia. #TheIndiaSeries #IndianKnowledgeSystems #GlobalPolitics #IndiaAsGlobalPlayer #WorldOrder #ForeignPolicy #Geopolitics #KnowledgeExchange