Delightful Blend of Scholarly & Analytical Explanation

Book Review by Acharya S.P.Dwivedi

Promod Puri is a distinguished South Asian journalist and prolific essayist. In his book- “Hinduism” he tried to cover the historical evolution of Hindu dharma and its major philosophies, theistic doctrines, social codes, rituals and practices. He admits openly, “Hinduism is a democracy of conflicting, contradicting and controversial thoughts and theories” (Preface iii) with that feeling it would have been difficult for him “to pick and choose” the paths, philosophies or doctrines. He neither claims that book is an academic research paper nor meant for teaching. Furthermore, he admits that the understanding and facts he acquired about Hinduism is mostly based on internet and his personal experiences, and that reflects his humbleness too.

As far as methodology is concerned Puri has applied analytical approach. He interprets everything rationally and denounces irrational snobbery. Being a Hindu, he doesn’t use any smoke screen to hide his anguish, frustration or guilt-consciousness, and out rightly condemns centuries old decayed, dis-functional and torturous Hindu social traditions and customs. He dealt in length demonic treatment of untouchables and downtrodden (Dalit) segments of society.

He focuses on issues and challenges which modern person of Hindu community are facing. Commendable job in putting Hindu religion from historical development to present practices. This Puri has done on his own terms without any obsession of classical tradition of discussion based on school of philosophies and theistic doctrines. He identified the tumult of terrific inhuman practices and racked the truth which is all spread over religiously regulated life of a common person of Hindu community.

He writes thoughtfully and straight from the heart. His intelligence is not dimmed because of his repetition on the subject of untouchables. His book and its contents will motivate not only Hindu reform- loving people but all those also who will cherish his banner of equality, dignity and justice to all living beings on earth. He moves from Hindu problem and turns it a global one. Puri emerges as a vanguard of Hindu reforms.

Puri came up with the categories of philosophies, yogas, scriptures and sciences, music, dance and drama and thoroughly explained it. Of course, he cited several quotations from Manu Smriti to buttress his arguments. It would not be out of way to say that- ‘one life is not enough to cover all Hindu scriptures’. Of course, Puri has no commitment with any particular Hindu creed or ideology. Although, Puri seems to be leaning on Western scholars while describing the period of the development of Hindu religion and writings of scriptures but adhered with the basic values.

As for as the symbolic significance of idolatry, spirituality, karma-dharma and temple rituals are concerned, he picked up the true spirit of Hindu belief system and offered impressive interpretations for example- “Idolatry establishes direct one to one relationship between a devotee and the divinity”(p.36), “ Arti and several other elaborate adoration generate a spiritually charged atmosphere of reverence and sacredness” (p.45), and “ Hinduism’s democratic framework the management of self is what we call a way of life” (p.122). He quoted three verses/mantras 1. Om purnamidam…2.Aum bhur bhuvah… 3.Aum dyauh shanti… because of their sublime quality of universality, peacefulness, harmony and secularism. Obviously, he enriched the Hinduism by adding the scientific interpretation of above mantras including Aum and Naad etc.

He dealt in length the caste and class problem in Hindu society which has degraded and horribly contaminated the social and religious fabric. I have discovered two traits 1. Exposing the social imbalance and 2. Hope for the improvement. In support of the later trait he has described the reform movements and invaluable contribution of the Messiah of Acchoots and Dalits- Dr. B.R.Ambedkar. Puri completely rejected an irrational and non-logical writings of Manu and appeared as a radical and anti-traditionalist.

There is marked difference in the present Hindu society because of an enhancement in education, urbanization and constitutional laws that are en-cracking upon the inflexible traditions.(p83) People are severing their relationship with evil Hindu customs and rituals. It can be safely admitted that reform movement in Hindu religion is gathering momentum. “Consequent to Hinduism’s democratic framework the management of self is what we call a way of life”, a mantra to be enchanted. (p.122)

His lucidity of language carries the freshness and clearness that is immensely impressive, and easily comprehensible. Puri is a writer of uncommon brilliance andj interpretive innovations, and he applied effectively appropriate terminology to strengthen his arguments.

This book appears to be his life’s work and carries delightful blend of scholarly and analytical explanation, and further it provides general reader a concise and easily understood facts of Hinduism. It fulfills the need of authentic exposition of Hinduism. Finally, I would like to conclude that Promod Puri’s works stand out before us to be complimented and appreciated.
amazon.com/author/promodpuri

AN OVERVIEW OF AMERICAN ELECTION SCENE

By Promod Puri

Following the American election is like watching a live theatrical performance of wit and idiocy.

The ongoing show besides its elements of great entertainment and fuel for discussion, reveals the left-right extremes of current American political thinking and behavior.

No doubt the most colorful and watched character in this spectacle is Donald Trump who impulsively spits out his unscripted discourses the moment these are created in his narcissist egghead workshop.

The stupidity of Trump-level scripts is his big asset. He sure does a good job in creating the scenarios which are scary when introduced, but often laughable and entertaining as the show continues.

Without Donald Trump in his natural performances the entire episode of this 2016 edition of American election scene would be bland and unnoticed. He certainly has outperformed all others by creating and controlling the stage agenda.

Trump is proud of his management skills both as a businessman and of his personal life, including managing his ruffled hairs. His confidence in his seemingly irrational logics have produced some original proposals as for as safety and security of American public is concerned. Great Wall of America would be one of the most popular legacies of Trump even if it remains as his cherished dream. And his tirade to keep out Muslims will follow him like a shadow long after the election is over.

Another roadside show of the USA election is all about Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders. She is getting impatient with her competitor as when he will move his food truck, which is drawing more customers than expected, so that she prepares for the final bout in the upcoming grand finally in November.

(Credit: the food truck idea borrowed from a recent cartoon with its political pun of US election scene).

Promod Puri is the author of recently released book "Hinduism beyond rituals,customs and traditions".

GOD: A Perspective View

By Promod Puri

Besides His numinous and varied perceptions God also offers a meaningful perspective which can be created by the assembly of good thoughts. And the divine residency begins in that on-going construction.

Basically it is an eloquent temperament we are trying to build which gives rationality and practicality to the institution of God. 

The ecumenical concept of God of being the supreme governor who creates, sustains and destroys the universe, and everything else including what influences our lives, does not reveal the reasons behind all the puzzles and mysteries of His or Her observable deeds.

In other words our perception of God as being a creator with His mystical powers which sustains the universe, can not comprehend many universal and natural phenomenons. 

One reason is that man is just one of the millions of creatures who in actuality is microscopic in His infinite and colossal universe. Still our imaginations and metaphysical attempts know no boundaries to fathom His magnanimity. 

For a moment let us compare a human being to a small ant who is trying to study God up there in the celestial world.

(Read the full article in hinduismbypromodpuriblog.wordpress.com  

REVIEWS OF HINDUISM:BEYOND RITUALS, CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS 

BOOK REVIEW FROM INDIE BOOK REVIEWERS

1st Review:

The way he writes and puts it all together is very educational, eye-opening, and ultimately transformative.

This book, “Hinduism: Beyond Rituals. Customs and Traditions” by Promod Puri was actually far more interesting and insightful than I first expected it to be (no offense to the author). I just wasn’t sure what I was getting myself in for, but as I started reading I was transfixed by Mr. Puri’s impressive knowledge of Hinduism and the many facets of it, and how it relates to life in general… and the way he writes and puts it all together is very educational, eye-opening, and ultimately transformative.

“Hinduism…” is an absolute ‘must read’ for anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating religion. I feel like Mr. Puri does a fantastic job of writing in such a way that is informative and engaging at the same time, and I found myself interested the whole way through. It is quite dense and full of information, as it should be. A wonderful read, a definite keeper.(5 stars)

– James Masters – Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

2nd Review:

I think anyone who wants to learn more about Hinduism, or just being inspired to expand their level of awareness of the religion that so many follow, they should definitely read this book.

I was very impressed by the high quality writing and research that went into this book, “Hinduism-Beyond Rituals, Customs, and Traditions” by Promod Puri. I thought the book was very thorough on the topic of Hinduism and all it encompasses, and intelligently constructed in a way that has a great flow from one topic to the next. The author has a gift for explaining his ideas/viewpoints and the writing was very good. The pacing and structure is perfect and I think anyone who wants to learn more about Hinduism, or just being inspired to expand their level of awareness of the religion that so many follow, they should definitely read this book. It really makes you think, and see in in a different light. It is probably recommended for older teens and up, and I could totally see this being used in a college classroom. (5 stars).

-Essie Harmon– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

3rd Review

It is very engaging and the author writes with great knowledge and passion as he takes on certain aspects of Hinduism in a way I’ve never read before, and I was so impressed with the depth of Puri’s detailing on his reports and the way he is able to explain so much about Hinduism that I didn’t even know.

“Hinduism” by Promod Puri is a must-read for anyone studying, or interested in, the topic of Hinduism. It is very engaging and the author writes with great knowledge and passion as he takes on certain aspects of Hinduism in a way I’ve never read before, and I was so impressed with the depth of Puri’s detailing on his reports and the way he is able to explain so much about Hinduism that I didn’t even know. At times I did feel it could have used some trimming down as it felt a bit repetitive and lacked some focusing, and the formatting made it hard to read occasionally (all left-justified block text – could have benefitted from more white space, visually). But that said, I did enjoy it very much, and learned a lot – even more than I expected. I liked how Mr. Puri writes, very down-to-earth and relatable, yet very intelligent and entertaining. And all in all was an enjoyable, and very important type of read. (4 stars)

-Gillian Hancock– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

4rth Review

I have read several books on theology and sometimes I get the sense that most are just recycling old information. Well, for this book it seems like I read a lot of new ideas presented in a new way.

I will start by saying this is a wonderful book that I liked much more than I was expecting to! I have read several books on theology and sometimes I get the sense that most are just recycling old information. Well, for this book it seems like I read a lot of new ideas presented in a new way. The content was mostly new to me and laid out in a simple way that is well-written and very easy to follow. Promod Puri does a great job sharing his insightful, interactive take on certain elements of the religious doctrine and its many roles in a cultural, philosophical, and personal context. Some parts are more interesting than others, some were too ‘dry’ and esoteric for my tastes, but overall it is fast paced, informative, and easy to read… at times impossible to put down! I recommend this book, “Hinduism: Beyond Rituals, Customs, and Traditions” to anyone who wants to attain greater spiritual awareness and see a different side of Hinduism that you maybe haven’t really studied before. Read it with an open mind and you will be impressed. (4 stars)

-Steph Coleman– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

5th Review:

I think anyone who wants to learn more about Hinduism, or just being inspired to expand their level of awareness of the religion should definitely read this book.

Even though I am not a Hindu I do have some friends/acquaintances who are, and I thought reading this book might give me even more insight as to how they think and believe. What I really liked was how the author Promod Puri wrote this in a way that everyone could understand and appreciate, not just Hindus or people who were very familiar with the religion. I feel like he covered several important topics in great detail and depth, but without going so deep as to become like reading a straight text book. Although esoteric at times, this book can still be read and easily understood by Hindus and non-Hindus alike, and I thought the book was very insightful and well-crafted in a way that has a great transitions from one subject to the next in a coherent manner. The author has a gift for explaining his ideas/viewpoints and the writing was very good. The editing is perfect and I think anyone who wants to learn more about Hinduism, or just being inspired to expand their level of awareness of the religion should definitely read this book. (4-5 stars)

-Darla Ortiz– Goodreads;-Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

6th Review

Even if you are not a Hindu this book has a lot of great information in it and I recommend highly.

“Hinduism…” by Promod Puri was an eye opening and inspiring book with a positive message, even if some of the text was complex and almost scholarly at times… it is what makes the author’s message all the more powerful, in my opinion. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to understand better what and how Hindus think and what they believe. I for one never really understood the many different aspects of Hinduism, so this was certainly educational. The author gives very specific arguments and ‘questions’ that help to understand the religion better, and answers with some well-documented research of his own. The whole thing was just so easy to comprehend (even when it was dense) and felt very easy to relate to… Even if you are not a Hindu this book has a lot of great information in it and I recommend highly. (5 stars)

-Brenda Maxwell– Goodreads; Shelfari; Barnes & Noble; Indie Book Reviewers

MORE VIEW AND REVIEW:

Amazing!!excellently written book in a simple way on a complicated subject
Hinduism is not a religion,it is a science in itself
Must read book for all
Great job done by the author
Dr Sandeep Dhavan
Gastroenterologist, Chandigarh, India

“A journey of self-discovery

Often, we’re not introduced to religion, rarely are we given a choice to pick one. Born in a Hindu family, you follow Hinduism, which as the debate goes is more than a religion; a way of life.

When you start reading the book, Hinduism: Beyond Rituals, Customs and Traditions by author (Editor-Journalist) Promod Puri you get thick deep into this debate. Yet, no thoughts are forced upon you.

The book is a rationale read. There are facts, anecdotes, theories and examples; each one to his/her. It talks of rituals, and how they provide an architecture to a religion but they’re not cure-all miracles. “Such customs generate fanaticism,” the author writes.

For most of us, the history of Hinduism is what we grew up listening to, observed people following. Here, you learn of the ages, civilizations and periods that led to its origin.

Why do we chant the word Om, why does it bring peace to our senses? Is Hari Om just a greeting, mere two-word mantra? As kids, many of us were asked to scribble the words Om on the first page of our books, or taught to hum the Gayatri Mantra on special days – it energized us, why and how?

We worship an idol, visit a temple, especially if celebrating a festival. In modern age, we are told to perform the Surya Namaskar every morning, and told Hollywood celebrities do so too!

A Ramayana is still part of trousseau in many homes, a Mahabharata (if not read) is watched by families, together – for many of us, it was once a Sunday ritual. What do scriptures teach us?

And there are the controversial topics of caste and the honour of women that appear in this book too. You may be dancing, singing or meditating – is that part of Hinduism too?

If you fret over Karma, and believe your strength lies in the ‘self’ then you will find the last leg of the book most interesting. Find your answers in this read”.

Purva Grover, Founder & Editor- The Indian Trumpet, Dubai, UAE

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“It is a very concise book and every statement is like an aphorism that needs to be contemplated upon to appreciate its depth and width”.

This review is from: Hinduism: Kindle Edition

Promod Puri has presented fresh and new perspectives to an ageless philosophy and religion.The book presents the topic of Hinduism as an easy read for the first timer as well as provides new points to ponder for someone who is well versed with the topic of Hinduism! Though terse and journalistic, this philosophizing on the philosophy of Hinduism is a must read.

Dr. Sanjay Grover, Solan, India

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“Very objective, fair, critical, yet respectful observation. Hinduism- “it stimulates and encourages debate, protest, amendments and even deletions of those doctrines or beliefs which are senseless, derogatory, and far from truth” is probably the definition of Hinduism that I could find. The challenge in my view is to create the will, the movement, and desire “to be change”. A welcome addition for creating, supporting, and facilitating debate on a topic that is indeed a ‘multidisciplinary academy’. Congratulations to Mr. Promod Puri ji”.

Jai Birdi,Canada

DETAILED BUT CONCISE OVERVIEW

Most of us who grew up practicing Hinduism in our daily lives often understand the religion through rituals (poojas), mantras, stories (like the Ramayan) and a series of rules and obligations. We often wonder how we’d teach these customs to our kids in the age of social media, selfies and the internet.

Hinduism has a reputation for being vast, democratic and multi-faceted, and this book does an excellent job of boiling it down, helping the reader understand its philosophy, where it came from and why it relevant today, especially in this age of awareness.

The book explores the history and evolution of the religion and also importantly discusses who influenced the religion, both good and bad. Some philosophers encouraged scientific curiosity and rational thought, while others (for example) sought to divide its followers by advocating the caste system. It discusses science, karma and yoga, and helps shed light on how to apply its ancient wisdom today.

Ultimately the book is a detailed but concise overview of a very dense and complicated topic, and the reader is left encouraged to look deeper into the parts of Hinduism that interests them the most. It does require the reader to focus and pay attention, and a dictionary might be useful too. I found myself rewarded with a greater awareness of its relevance and a sense of how I might apply the thinking in my own life.

Sun God

"Surya Devta or sun god enjoys unique status in Hindu iconography as the visible divine personality emerging from the horizon every day. His celestial arrival frees a devotee from ritualistic customs or caste-based barricades and taboos to have an independent face to face obeisance and worship. The sun god is approachable without any medium.The Sun's universal distribution of light and energy has been recognized since Vedic time as the ultimate source of life, the cause of our existence and the environment it nourishes". From Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs and traditions.
To buy the book please follow the link below:
http://www.amazon.ca/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_12?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=hinduism+by+promod+puri&sprefix=Hinduism+by+%2Caps%2C254

Hinduism:beyond rituals, customs and traditions

"Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs and traditions"

Why are there so many gods and goddesses in Hinduism? Why worship an idol? Is going to temple mandatory in the faith? What impact does the caste system have on Hindu society? Why do some rituals make perfect sense while others are so vague? What are the secular and diverse characters in Hinduism? What physics principles constitute the sound of Om? What is karma and its role in our day to day lives?

These and more subjects are eloquently dealt with in the just released book titled "Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs and traditions" by Vancouver-based writer Promod Puri.

The 130-page book on Hinduism written in a concise and clear manner is an easy reading of all aspects of Hinduism for every level of reader. Also, it is for those whose knowledge of the faith is limited to its rituals, customs and traditions.

In the modern society belonging to a faith and its acceptance must be based on reasoning. Hindu thoughts and philosophies in the book are explained with logics.It emphasizes that Hinduism is not just a way of life, it is also a multi-disciplinary academy.

The book recognizes Hinduism's liberal fundamentals as well as its history, rituals, mantras, moksha and metaphysics, meditation, yoga and music, scriptures and sciences, the controversial laws of Manu, Amdekar's reforms and more.

The book is both educational and provocative in the areas of rituals and casteism. It makes quite a sensible reading for rational and contemporary mind.

"HINDUISM:BEYOND RITUALS,CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS" IS AVAILABLE FROM AMAZON,KINDLE, CREATESPACE STORE. ASK YOUR LICAL BOOK STORE.

ABOUT THE AUTHER:
Promod Puri is a veteran of 45 years in the field of journalism, founder and former editor and publisher of Vancouver-based South Asian Canadian weekly newspaper, The Link. He was also former editor of Winnipeg-based Native Indian newspaper, The New Nation.

Seeking humanism and rationales have always been his approaches in writing. Honesty, sincerity and perfection are the ethics he follows in his candid writing.

Exploring the truth has led to write this book to recognize the fact that the fundamentals of Hinduism are liberal, secular and diverse, and that it has depth.

With a journalist background he adheres to the cardinal principle of writing that it is meant for reading by others. For that reason his writing style has always been simple for effortless and absorbing reading.

Meet Canada's New Prime Minister

By Promod Puri

His father, Pierre Trudeau, was an intellectual statesman. Justin Trudeau may not fall into that grade. But the genes are there.

He is a  "thoughtful and intelligent guy", says former Liberal leader Bob Rae. In his policy statements we see rays of hope for better and more compassionate Canada in the years to come.

The clear majority gained by the Liberal Party under his leadership and with dignified campaign, not only demonstrated the rejection of ultra right wing politics of discrimination, anti-immigration and fake security concerns, but it restores the confidence in Canadian values of humanism and compassion in both national and international affairs.

Justin Trudeau's rise to political leadership has been like that of an ordinary common man. He worked his own way to climb that ladder. He was not handed a life in politics on a platter as being the son of legendary former prime minister.

His adult life began as a school teacher, snowboard instructor, bouncer in a night club, and playing a role of war hero in a World War 1 TV drama. These credentials show the traits of a young man trying to gain some space in the society.

Yes, he also has a tattoo of Haida nation printed on his arms. He loves ethnic food; his first outing with his date, now his wife Sophie, was to Khyber Pass, an Afghan restaurant in Montreal. He performs Bhangra too.

From this simple portfolio we can see the emergence of a down-to-earth leader who has promised some fundamental changes reflecting the "thoughtful and intelligent" approach to run the affairs of the nation.

In his declared statements Trudeau promised to review the dreadful anti-terrorism laws which could encourage a reign of terror thru fake encounters.

He has expressed openness to let in all the views and concerns in dealing with environmental issues.

He declared to pursue a humanitarian and independent foreign policy which is not influenced by the big brothers south of the border. This foreign policy puts Canada in its traditional role of no-combat military involvements, but for peaceful missions only. He has already announced that Canada will withdraw fighter jets from Iraq and Syria.

His domestic liberal policies include: legalizing marijuana, protection of transgender people, reuniting families of immigrants, reinvigorate ethnic cultures and diversities, and bring more diversity in the government. He has promised welcoming refugee policies. He has announced Canada will admit 25,000 Syrian refugees by the year end.

Mr. Trudeau has recognized the true multicultural fabric of Canada. It was also the hallmark of his father's political life when he declared multiculturalism as the official policy of the Canadian government. His has shown his enthusiastic participation in ethnic cultural events. More than that he recognizes the contribution of Canada's ethnic diversity to make this nation a truly multicultural society of equal opportunities.

There is faith in Mr. Trudeau's ethnic sentiments. And that is the kind of leadership the ethnic communities feel encouraged to see their involvement in Canadian affairs.