Sometimes, the simplest of questions can have the strongest impact on your life and for Priya Virmani, this question came when she was in University and someone asked her, "So Priya, you guys have 3 million gods and goddesses, right?"
This question made her realise that she did not know much about her religion. She explains the moment stating, “Despite attending Diwali and Durga Puja throughout my life, I couldn't explain it. That question stuck with me. So, at the University of Bristol, amidst my academic research, I found myself drawn to books on Hinduism in the library.
“I learned that Hinduism isn't about multiple gods, but rather the diverse manifestations of one divine energy. We see this energy in everything around us, from the wind to the sky. And if we extend this understanding, we realise that divinity exists within each of us.”
Two decades later, she presented a show at the Bhavan in London last October. Describing the experience, she said, “This event aimed to explore the energetic meaning and significance of the stories around Indian culture and festivals, particularly relevant in today's era of technology and information overload. We delved into the deeper meaning of traditions and how they apply to everyday life and the show was an overwhelming success.”
Inspired by the success in London, Priya recently replicated the concept in Kolkata with “The Trinity”, focusing on Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, and their relevance in the 21st century. “Using storytelling, vocals, classical dance, and music, I presented the topic in an entertaining format to engage the audience and deliver the message effectively”, she shared.
“The success of the show and the media has motivated me to take “The Trinity” concept to different cities worldwide, starting with my beloved London”, she added.
According to Priya, whether one calls it mythology, scripture, or witness accounts, regardless of what we call them, the essence of these stories lie in applying their teachings to our daily lives. “In today's world inundated with information, it's not enough to simply know these teachings; we must practice them. For instance, knowing hundreds of good habits won't change our lives unless we put even two of them into practice”, she explains
Priya, a political and economic analyst and the founder and director of Paint Our World, a humanitarian project dedicated to supporting underprivileged children, is deeply passionate about empowering women and children.
