Bharatvaarta

Bharatvaarta
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Mar 18, 2025 • 55min

The TRUTH About Hinduism & India's Past | Amish Tripathi on Cultural Resurgence & Colonial Lies | Culture

Is Hinduism misunderstood in the West? Bestselling author & cultural icon Amish Tripathi reveals the truth about India’s past, exposing colonial lies and misconceptions about Hinduism. He discusses the resurgence of spirituality in India, its evolving identity, and how ancient wisdom is shaping the modern world. From his viral Oxford Union debate defending Hinduism against atheists to his insights on the role of Sadhus and leaders like Modi & Yogi, Amish offers a powerful perspective. Discover why India's economic rise fuels cultural confidence and how Hinduism adapts in the modern age. Learn about his journey from author to filmmaker and what the West can learn from Hinduism. Topics:00:00 - Introduction02:10 - Why Millions Are Turning to Spirituality06:45 - West vs. India: The Binary vs. Nuanced Thinking12:30 - Why India’s Economic Rise Fuels Cultural Confidence18:15 - Oxford Union Debate: Defending Hinduism Against Atheists23:40 - Colonial Lies & Misconceptions About Hinduism30:10 - Who Really Wrote Indian History? The British Narrative Exposed35:45 - The Role of Sadhus: Why They’re NOT Like Western Monks41:20 - Why India Respects Selfless Leaders Like Modi & Yogi47:05 - How Hinduism Adapts While Abrahamic Religions Struggle52:30 - The Power of Rituals & Why They Matter Today58:45 - From Author to Filmmaker: Amish’s Journey Into Documentaries1:05:20 - Final Thoughts: What the West Can Learn from Hinduism
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Mar 1, 2025 • 1h 4min

India’s Risky Bet on America’s Most Advanced Fighter jets | Abhijit Chavda

In this episode, we delve into the rapid geopolitical changes with new governments in Delhi and the US, and Donald Trump's ambitious agenda. We discuss the impact of these changes, including the Ukraine war and its implications on global power dynamics. The focus then shifts to India, its defense strategies, and its need for fifth-generation fighter planes. We also explore China's military maneuvers, climate change, and the concept of World War III. The discussion wraps up with India's potential in AI, innovations in the tech industry, and the critical need for data-driven decisions for India to emerge as a superpower. Tune in for an engaging and comprehensive conversation on these pressing global issues.00:00 Sneak peak01:02 Introduction01:40 Current Geopolitical changes 02:57 India's Defense Strategy: F-35 vs. Sukhoi 5707:54 Challenges in India's Defense and Space Sectors12:34 The American Empire: Decline or Dominance?18:47 China-India Relations: Border Tensions and Trade27:05 AI and Innovation: India's Technological Future33:12 India's Historical Greatness and Brain Drain33:34 Illegal Immigration and Its Consequences35:35 Missed Opportunities in Indian History37:50 Climate Change: Human Impact and Natural Cycles40:55 Potential World War III and Nuclear Deterrence43:40 Ancient Civilizations and Misconceptions51:42 Artificial Intelligence: The Future of Humanity54:48 Strengthening India's Military and Maritime Power58:41 Revamping India's Education System01:02:09 India's Path to Becoming a Superpower01:03:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Feb 18, 2025 • 2h 3min

260: Is Trump 2.0 India’s Biggest Challenge or Greatest Opportunity? | Ruchir, Surya, Anang | Geopolitics

In this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, host Roshan Cariappa is joined by panelists Ruchir Sharma, Surya Kanegaonkar, and Anang Mittal to discuss the potential impact of the Trump presidency on India and the broader world. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the potential for creative diplomacy, the state of India's indigenous military technology programs, and the effects of U.S. foreign policy on India's strategic autonomy. The panelists also discuss how India can take advantage of this period to reform its internal policies and redefine its role as a regional hegemon. With insights into defense, economic policies, and the evolving geopolitical landscape, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what India might expect and how it can best prepare for the future.Topics:00:00 Sneak peak01:21 Introduction02:59 Trump's Policies and Global Reactions08:15 India's Geopolitical Maneuvering20:24 Modi's US Visit Highlights27:40 Negotiating with Trump37:09 Regional Powers and India's Role45:13 Indian Talent Exodus and Innovation Challenges01:00:29 Protectionism and Indian Industry01:19:52 Multilateralism and Global Organizations01:29:45 The Role of Non-State Actors in U.S. Influence01:35:21 Opportunities for India Amid Global Shifts01:38:30 The Need for Bureaucratic and Policy Reforms01:41:19 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook
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Feb 8, 2025 • 1h 6min

259: Uncovering Tipu Sultan’s Dark Past! | Vikram Sampath (Author/Historian)

In this engaging episode of the Bharatvaarta Podcast, host Sharan is joined by Dr. Vikram Sampath to discuss his latest book on the controversial history of Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan's contrasting reigns. The conversation covers various aspects including Tipu Sultan's controversial policies, the methodological challenges of historical writing, and the nuances of presenting an impartial account in a polarized field. Dr. Sampath also shares insights into the importance of documenting contemporary lives for future historians and discusses his initiatives to support upcoming historians through the FIHCR (Foundation for Indian Historical and Cultural Research).Topics:00:00 Introduction01:06 Meet Dr. Vikram Sampath01:36 The Haider and Tipu Saga03:47 Balancing Historical Perspectives05:23 The Craft of a Historian05:34 Tipu Sultan's Documentation07:21 Contemporary and Oral Sources18:05 Comparing Haider and Tipu26:49 Tipu's Language Policies30:55 Tipu's Dreams and Interpretations34:34 Toxic Masculinity and Treatment of Women37:24 Historical Movies and Controversies39:29 Challenges in Indian Historical Cinema42:21 Religious Policies and Temple Grants51:07 Role of Brahmins and Administrators55:21 Controversial Historical Figures57:52 Future of Historical Research01:04:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Jan 25, 2025 • 54min

258: Fixing Poverty in India | Manish Sabharwal (ex-Independent Director, RBI) | Policy

On this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, we talk to Manish Sabharwal, former independent director at the Reserve Bank of India, explores India's economic and educational reforms over the last few decades. He discusses the impact of city-based growth on GDP, the comparison between India's and China's stock market performance, and the complexities of creating mass prosperity. The discussion covers India’s reform agenda, including the significance of NEP 2020, the role of regulatory cholesterol, and the challenges posed by modern state populism. Sabharwal emphasizes the need for continuous, incremental reforms, formalization, and the crucial role of urbanization, industrialization, financialization, and human capital in ensuring sustained economic growth. He also touches upon the importance of skill development, overcoming regulatory barriers, and leveraging India’s demographic advantages and overseas diaspora to fuel future growth.Topics:00:00 Introduction00:29 India's Economic Transformation: Past and Future01:40 Challenges and Reforms in India's Economic Policies02:21 Political Freedom vs. Economic Prosperity03:01 Fiscal and Monetary Policy: Overrated Solutions?04:48 Populism and Its Impact on Economic Growth05:23 The Role of Government, Private Sector, and Non-Profits08:40 Upcoming Budget and Economic Reforms10:49 Ease of Doing Business: Regulatory Challenges16:05 Education vs. Employability: The Skill Gap21:34 The Importance of English in India's Job Market28:38 Challenges of Local Governance in India29:19 The Rise of Bangalore as a Tech Hub30:35 Infrastructure and Job Creation32:26 The Future of Kirana Stores and Self-Employment34:07 Regulatory Challenges and Economic Reforms34:26 Unpredictability of Job Creation35:52 Formalization and Urbanization for Economic Growth37:42 India's Economic Potential and Global Position46:15 Structural Reforms and Future Challenges50:19 Leveraging India's Diaspora and Entrepreneurship52:43 Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity
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Jan 18, 2025 • 52min

257: Temples as Financial Hubs? The Shocking Truth About Their Role in History | Sriram Balasubramanian (Author)

In this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, we sit down with Dr. Sriram Balasubramanian, a renowned economist and author, to discuss his latest book, 'Dharmanomics.' Dr. Balasubramanian delves into the historical role of temples as economic instruments and their impact on village ecosystems in India. He further explores ancient principles of Dharma and how they can guide modern economics towards sustainable growth. The conversation includes insights into the temple-based economies, the role of culture and norms in economic decision-making, and the influence of ancient economic models on contemporary policy. This discussion is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of India's rich cultural heritage and its economic framework.00:00 Introduction01:12 Exploring Dharmanomics02:10 The Concept of Dharmic Capitalism03:48 Historical Economic Frameworks09:28 The Importance of Scholarly Research13:57 Temple Economy in Bharat17:38 Temple-Based Economic Models in Southeast Asia19:27 The Role of Temples as Financial Institutions20:07 Redistributive Functions of Temples21:52 Liberating Temple Economies from State Control24:26 Sustainability in a Dharmic Economy25:05 Sustainability and Dharmic Economics25:36 Prime Minister's Vision and Policies26:51 Dharmic Responsibilities and Cleanliness28:51 Historical Economic Interactions30:14 Role of Corporate Guilds31:56 Chola Dynasty's Geopolitical Influence37:18 Policy and Dharmic Economic Model46:17 Future Projects and Dharmic Nudges50:01 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBuy his book "Dharmanomics" here: https://amzn.in/d/4CAZTEB
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Dec 21, 2024 • 1h 32min

256: Who’s Really Getting Ahead in India’s Economy? | Saurabh Mukherjea (Manager, Marcellus Invest)

Saurabh Mukherjea, Founder of Marcellus Investment Managers and author of 'Behold the Leviathan', provides insights into India's evolving economy. He discusses the significant impact of political and economic policies, the rise of new DMAT accounts, and the changing entrepreneurial landscape. Saurabh explores the disparities between regions, the importance of healthcare investments, and direct benefit transfers. He emphasizes adaptability in investment strategies and reflects on the challenges and growth potential for India's middle class in the current economic climate.
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Dec 11, 2024 • 53min

255: How Corruption Is Undermining India's Growth | Mohandas Pai (Chairman, Aarin Capital)

In this Bharatvaarta episode, host Sharan engages in an insightful conversation with Mohandas Pai about India's pressing economic and political issues. He discusses the challenges in creating well-paying jobs, the misuse of taxpayer money, and the disparity in education funding. He critiques the 'freebie' culture among politicians, the systemic corruption, and inefficiencies in public infrastructure projects. Pai also highlights the necessity for better investment in youth education, the broken justice system, and the need for improved governance and infrastructure, particularly in Bangalore. Topics: 00:00 Sneak peak 01:26 Introduction 01:40 The Freebie Culture in Indian Politics 02:32 Economic Disparities Across Indian States 05:28 Challenges in Job Creation and Education 12:24 Corruption in Government and Bureaucracy 14:28 Political Strategies and Voter Frustration 26:20 Issues in Government Execution and Accountability 28:52 Navigating Bureaucratic Hurdles 30:32 The Broken Justice System 35:10 Political and Social Challenges 41:38 The Future of Bangalore 43:20 Improving Infrastructure and Public Transport 47:30 Conclusion: The Vision for Bangalore
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Dec 1, 2024 • 1h 29min

Ep 254 - Can India's Army Keep Up with the Changing Threat Landscape? | Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla

In this episode of Bharatvaarta, host Kamal Madishetty dives into the evolving landscape of security and military strategy with distinguished veteran Lt. General Raj Shukla. With over four decades of service experience, General Shukla discusses the profound changes in the nature of warfare, the importance of technology and adaptability in modern combat, and the strategic priorities for India amidst complex global geopolitics. The conversation covers a range of topics including cyber warfare, space, hybrid warfare, the military-industrial complex, and the significant role of innovation in defense. General Shukla also emphasizes the critical need for robust national security measures, strategic deterrence, and the importance of integrating civilian and military efforts through a comprehensive national security outlook. This insightful episode provides a deep understanding of the challenges and future directions for India's defense and strategic landscape.Topics:00:00 Sneak peak01:21 Introduction02:43 Discussion on Military Modernization05:20 Impact of Drones and Technology in Warfare07:56 Geopolitical Realities and National Security10:45 Limiting China's Rise17:34 Non-Traditional Security Threats23:02 Tech innovation and military29:56 Welfare of Veterans and Resource Allocation38:47 Integration and Reforms in the Military47:21 Strategic Deterrence and Military Assets50:11 Beyond the Border: Expanding Deterrence54:06 Space and Cyber Warfare Priorities56:07 The Deep and Sophisticated China Challenge57:47 China's Military and Economic Strategies01:04:59 The Importance of Fail-Proof Deterrence01:11:10 The CREEC Axis: A Grim Challenge01:22:38 Strengthening National Security
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Oct 26, 2024 • 1h 3min

Ep 253 - How One Man's Greed Shook India's Last Great Empire | Dr. Uday S Kulkarni (Author)

In this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, we explore the rich tapestry of Maratha history with Dr. Uday S Kulkarni, a naval surgeon turned historian, discussing his latest book, 'Raghoba, The Assassination of Narayana Rao Peshwa.' The conversation reveals the challenges and triumphs of historical research, including accessing archives and overcoming biases. Dr. Uday S Kulkarni sheds light on significant events during the Maratha Empire, such as the Battle of Panipat and the first Anglo-Maratha War, while addressing topics like discrimination under Mughal rule and the strategic evolution of Maratha artillery. With reflections on unity, leadership, and cultural renaissance, this episode presents a comprehensive narrative on the impact and legacy of the Maratha Empire.Buy the book: https://amzn.in/d/adSFe16Topics:00:00 Sneak peak02:08 Introduction04:04 Dr. Uday's Journey from Medicine to History06:55 Importance of Maratha History11:00 Process of writing history16:40 Being an outsider to writing history21:53 History and Politics24:24 Cultural Renaissance During the Maratha Period27:56 Unknown facets of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj30:04 Temple Restoration Efforts31:30 Decline of the Maratha Empire33:18 Shivaji Maharaj's Tactics and Nationalism34:31 Significance of Narayanrao Peshwa’s Assassination35:37 Battle of Panipat and Its Aftermath39:34 Raghunath Rao's Ambitions and Conflicts44:52 Role of Anandibai and the Ghardis50:16 Consequences and Decline of the Maratha Empire54:25 Reflections on Indian History and Unity57:39 Future of Historical Narratives01:00:48 Dr. Kulkarni’s Upcoming Work and Conclusion

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