Understanding of god
God is a source of constant energy and inspiration. He is a constant reminder that no matter what one may achieve, there is someone far beyond those heights. God is the opposite of ahamkar (Ego). It is important to surrender totally before god and let his will prevail.
Religious practices
Daily lighting of the incense stick, offering Jal and asking god to grant Sur and Sadbuddhi. I find it amusing when we ask god to grant a particular wish and then we would in return offer some ritual. It sounds like blackmailing. Whether in good or in bad times one must always seek blessings of the almighty and ask for his guidance.
Faith in miracles
Not much. Never seen any. I believe in karma, and in god’s will.
Spiritual practice
Spirituality is a way of life. Any deed that is done with a clean and pure conscience is spiritual practice.
Take on meditation
I firmly believe that any duty sincerely rendered is meditation by itself. Otherwise, it is stress. For me, music is meditation. I have a deep faith in the age old yogic practices as well.
Favorite pilgrimage spots
I follow Mahatma Kabir’s view on this “Moko kahaan dhoonde re bande, mein to tere paas mein; Na mandir mein, Na masjid mein, Na kaabe kailas mein, mein to tere paas mein (“Where do you search me? I am all around you”).
(Shruti Jauhari is a musicologist and a renowned Hindustani music performer)