The podcast that interviews entrepreneurs and activists, politicians and professors, journalists, entertainers, spiritual teachers, and more on how Hinduism shapes their work and lives. All American. So Hindu. Brought to you by the Hindu American Foundation.
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Halloween Special: All about ghosts, demons, vampires, from a Hindu perspective | Devala Gupta
Episode 173
Thursday, October 22, 2026 • Duration 42:55
supernatural beings in Hindu culture. The discussion delves into the differences between Western and Hindu perspectives on these entities, including the concepts of reincarnation and the nature of demons. The conversation highlights the beliefs and stories that shape the understanding of the supernatural in Hindu traditions, providing insights into how these beliefs manifest in cultural practices and folklore. They delve into beings that embody characteristics of both vampires and zombies, and discuss the nature of possession in Hinduism.
00:00 Halloween and Its Origins
01:57 Hindu Perspectives on Ghosts and Spirits
06:19 Understanding Ghosts in Hindu Tradition
11:20 Reincarnation and the Journey of Spirits
14:25 Demons in Hinduism: A Different Perspective
19:30 Taxonomy of Supernatural Beings in Hindu Lore
Established in 2003, the Hindu American Foundation is the largest and oldest education and advocacy organization and the preeminent voice for Hindu Americans. HAF advances the understanding of Hindu Dharma traditions to secure the rights and dignity of Hindu Americans now and for generations to come. HAF is politically agnostic and non-partisan, meaning we’re informed, but do not favor and cannot endorse any one political party or any candidates. We will work with all individuals and institutions who embrace integrity and reason and are constructively engaged in promoting dignity, freedom, equality and justice. HAF is not affiliated with any religious or political organizations or entities.
Remembering Air India Flight 182: An Interview with Ranjna Sharma
Episode 172
Friday, July 31, 2026 • Duration 35:32
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Mat McDermott speaks with Ranjna Sharma, whose family members in Ireland assisted victims’ families in the aftermath of the bombing of Air India flight 182, in 1985. She shares her family's connection to the aftermath in Ireland, reflections on the impact of terrorism, and insights on the ongoing repercussions within diaspora communities. This conversation highlights the importance of remembrance, reconciliation, and understanding the roots of violence in the Khalistan movement.
In this episode of That's So Hindu, Sheetal Shah talks with Dr. Reetu Rudra about the principles of Ayurveda, a holistic system of health that emphasizes the balance of body and mind through understanding one's dosha. The conversation explores the significance of food, digestion, and the importance of proper food combinations in maintaining health. Dr. Rudra explains the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and how they influence individual health. The episode also addresses common misconceptions about food, including the role of protein powders and the nutritional value of lentils, providing insights into how Ayurveda can guide dietary choices for better health. They also explore the principles of Ayurveda, focusing on the importance of spices in digestion, the individual nature of dietary needs, and the benefits of fresh foods over frozen options. They discuss the significance of ghee in Ayurvedic practices, the perspective on non-vegetarian food, and the practice of soaking foods for better digestion. The dialogue emphasizes understanding one's body and its unique requirements for optimal health.
Each person has unique dietary needs based on their dosha.
Food that is good for one may not be good for another.
Ayurveda emphasizes prevention over treatment.
Cold foods can suppress digestive fire.
Protein powders can be beneficial if digestible.
Lentils can be a wholesome protein source when paired correctly. Spices play a crucial role in making food digestible.
It's essential to consider how food is prepared, not just what is eaten.
Individual digestive needs vary; there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Fresh foods are preferred over frozen for better health.
Yes, Ayurveda & Western medicine can be combined | Dr Uma Purighalla
Episode 170
Thursday, July 16, 2026 • Duration 55:15
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Mat McDermott speaks with Dr Uma Purighalla. They
discuss her journey as an Ayurvedic doctor and her integration of Ayurvedic principles with Western medicine.
She emphasizes the importance of understanding individual dietary needs, particularly in the context of South Asian heart disease, and the historical context that has shaped the perception of Ayurveda. Dr. Uma highlights the significance of personalized medicine and the need to balance dietary qualities based on individual constitution and environmental factors.
The discussion also touches on longevity and how different dietary patterns can affect health outcomes; the principles of Ayurveda in relation to dietary choices; the importance of intuition in nutrition; and the global issue of vitamin D deficiency. She emphasizes the role of trust in the efficacy of medications and advocates for a holistic approach to health, particularly in managing heart disease. The discussion highlights the need for individuals to take an active role in their health decisions while respecting their body's signals.
Ayurveda complements conventional science by offering different perspectives.
Historical context has shaped the perception of Ayurveda.
South Asian heart disease presents unique challenges.
Dietary solutions must be individualized based on personal constitution.
Longevity is influenced by various dietary patterns.
Hindu Identity and Education in America | Dr. Indu Viswanathan
Episode 169
Thursday, July 9, 2026 • Duration 42:52
Explore how Hindu Americans navigate identity, belonging, and perceptions in US schools, and discover actionable insights for educators, parents, and communities in this engaging discussion with Dr. Indu Viswanathan. This conversation highlights the importance of inclusive, accurate representation in education. Join the movement to reframe narratives and foster belonging across communities.
The formative power of textbook imagery and narratives about India and Hinduism
Roots of misconceptions in colonial and American educational history
The role of civic education in shaping belonging and responsibility
Strategies for educators to recognize and dismantle stereotypes
The importance of community and family roles in fostering belonging
How social media magnifies misrepresentations and impacts identities
Building bridges through understanding, empathy, and inclusive education
Moving beyond grievance to Dharma-inspired pedagogical approaches
The potential of Hindu philosophical principles to enrich American education
Future directions: integrating Dharma into educational content and pedagogy
Indu Viswanathan’s book, Hindu By Heart is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble online, and in bundles at induviswanathan.com
02:21 - Reflection on childhood memories and their influence
03:44 - The impact of textbook imagery on identity
04:49 - The storytelling power of personal narratives
06:45 - Injustice and absurdity in textbook representations
10:32 - Advice to young Hindu students facing stereotypes
12:16 - The roots of Hindu stereotypes in historical narratives
13:11 - Colonial and American influences on representations
15:03 - Civic education’s role in shaping American identity
Hindus & Hinduism have influenced America for 250 years | Jeffrey D Long
Episode 168
Thursday, July 2, 2026 • Duration 55:27
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Mat McDermott talks with Professor Jeffrey D Long (Elizabethtown College) about the deep roots and growing presence of Hinduism in the United States. We explore the history from the colonial period to modern American spirituality, and how Western leaders and intellectuals have been influenced by Hindu thought for the past 250 years
In this episode:
The early awareness of Indian influence in America dating back to the 1600s
The role of founding fathers like John Adams and Thomas Jefferson in engaging with Indian texts and ideas
American perceptions of Hindu concepts, including reincarnation and caste, in the 18th and 19th centuries
The transcendentalist movement, Emerson and Thoreau's fascination with Hindu philosophy, and its influence on American culture
The emergence of Hindu organizations and the impact of Swami Vivekananda’s arrival in the US
The relationship between Western philosophical traditions and Hindu thought, highlighting influences from Greece to America
The evolution of Hindu-American identity and the modern resurgence of Hindu pride and pride in its philosophical heritage
Timestamps:
00:24 - Jeffrey Long’s bio and his book “Hinduism in America”
01:05 - Personal connection to Hindu practices and history in America
01:41 - Early Indian influence in colonial America
02:09 - American figures and their interest in Hindu texts
03:05 - The growth of Hindu temples across the U.S.
04:01 - The convergence of Hindu migrant communities and American-born Hindus
05:14 - The rise of non-Indian Hindus in America
07:19 - Historical references to Hindus in the 1600s
Yes, you can be Hindu and be white
Episode 167
Thursday, June 4, 2026 • Duration 57:07
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Sangeetha Shankar speakers with HAF’s Devala Gupta, Easan Katir, Mat McDermott, and Fred Stella about their journey’s into Hinduism. They discuss their personal spiritual practices, how the wider Hindu community has accepted them, and much more. This episode highlights the diversity within the Hindu community and challenges stereotypes about ethnicity and faith
Chapters
(00:00) Introduction to diverse white Hindu voices in the American context
(02:11) The significance of diversity within the Hindu Foundation's donor community
(03:29) Guests introduce their backgrounds and how they discovered Hinduism
(06:24) Personal stories: From mystical experiences to formal initiation
(09:00) Transition from Roman Catholicism to Hindu identity
(12:12) The journey from cultural curiosity to full commitment
(15:52) The balancing act of practicing Hinduism as a non-Indian
(18:00) Celebration of different practices and philosophies within Hinduism
(22:17) Personal devotion: favorite deity and festival choices
(26:56) Funny temple experiences: line-cutting and outsider perceptions
(33:17) The impact of Hindu philosophies on worldview and resilience
(39:44) Navigating societal explanations and misconceptions
(43:04) Experiences with attempts at reconversion or challenges faced
(47:45) Interfaith dialogues, community outreach, and unique religious conversations
(52:09) Stories of spiritual journeys intertwined with cultural exchanges
(56:00) Visions, spiritual visions, and transformative experiences
Meet the people confronting anti-Indian bigotry at Texas city council meetings | Neha Suratran & Saahas Kaul
Episode 166
Thursday, May 14, 2026 • Duration 30:44
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Mat McDermott speaks with Neha Suratran and Saahas Kaul about their experiences addressing anti-Indian sentiment in their community of Frisco, Texas. They discuss the rise of misinformation on social media, the role of political rhetoric, and the importance of community advocacy. The conversation also touches on the complexities of assimilation and cultural identity for immigrants in the US, emphasizing the need for understanding and positive interactions among diverse communities.
Takeaways
Neha and Saahas felt compelled to speak out against misinformation.
The demographic shift in Frisco has led to misconceptions about the Indian community.
Misinformation is often perpetuated through social media and political agendas.
Community support was evident during the council meeting where Neha and Saahas spoke.
Many individuals making anti-Indian videos are not from the local community.
The rise in anti-Indian sentiment is linked to broader political trends.
Assimilation should not mean losing one's cultural identity.
The Indian community is gaining confidence in advocating for themselves.
Positive community interactions can help dismantle biases.
Bigotry is taught, and exposure to diversity can help unlearn it.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
02:59 Community Response to Anti-Indian Sentiment
10:11 The Role of Social Media in Misinformation
17:04 Political Influences and Rhetoric
22:39 Assimilation and Cultural Identity
27:32 Empowering the Community through Advocacy
Keywords
anti-Indian sentiment, misinformation, social media, community advocacy, assimilation, cultural identity, political rhetoric, H1B visas, demographic shifts, youth activism
Parents here’s how you can model karma yoga for your kids | Brahmacharinini Shubaniji & Dr Kavita Pallod Sekhsaria
Episode 165
Thursday, May 7, 2026 • Duration 39:34
In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Sheetal Shah speaks with psychologist Dr Kavita Pallod Sekhsaria and Brahmacharini Shubaniji (Chinmaya Mission NYC). They explore the principles of Karma yoga and how they can be applied to children and family life, emphasizing selfless action, mindfulness, and Hindu identity — including practical ways for parents to model these values and integrate spiritual practices into daily routines.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Karma Yoga and Its Importance
02:55 Understanding Karma Yoga: Selfless Action and Acceptance
06:06 Teaching Children the Essence of Karma Yoga
08:54 The Mental Burden of Academic Pressure
11:46 Detachment from Results: The Key to Peace
14:45 Modeling Karma Yoga in Family Life
18:29 Navigating Peer Pressure and Social Media
23:23 Connecting Hindu Identity with Daily Practices
29:19 Conclusion: Living the Principles of Hinduism
keywords
Karma Yoga, Hindu parenting, spiritual growth, selfless action, mindfulness, Hindu identity, family values, Vedanta, parenting tips
Unmasking Digital Tribalism & How Hate Spreads Online | Joel Finkelstein, Network Contagion Research Institute
Episode 164
Thursday, April 23, 2026 • Duration 37:14
In this insightful interview, Suhag Shukla speaks with Joel Finkelstein from the Network Contagion Research Institute. They discuss the spread of anti-Indian and anti-Hindu hate online, the shift from policy debate to radicalized rhetoric, and strategies for community resilience. Discover how digital tribalism fuels misinformation and what communities can do to foster understanding and safety.
digital tribalism, hate speech, anti-Indian hate, social media influence, community resilience, misinformation, immigration debate, online extremism, social media algorithms, community building
