Understanding of god
Instead of saying that I don’t believe in god, I would rather say that I am a freethinker. Freethought is a philosophical view on which I base my opinions and ideas in life based on well-informed and unbiased logic and reason and empiricism and not societal aspects like tradition. I could say that I am an atheist. But at the same time, I don’t get it when some people have a hatred for those who don’t share their belief in god. I completely respect every kind of religious sentiment.
Religious practices
My family believes in god and his powers. So when they perform rituals and poojas, I participate in them, not because I believe in what is happening, but because it is important for me to respect their faith.
Faith in miracles
Since I’m not even remotely spiritual, I only believe in myself. I believe in the hardwork that I put in and I believe that it is all me when I achieve something in life. Miracles are something I definitely don’t believe in.
Take on meditation
I’ve not tried meditation before, so I don’t think I can comment about it. But it is something I’ll be sure to try with proper guidance.
Favourite pigrimage spots
When I was young, I have visited all the usual pilgrimage spots, right from Tirupati to Srirangam and the Big Temple in Tanjore. There is no denying that I did enjoy those trips, but visiting temples is not something I’ll take an initiative to do. If my family wants to go somewhere to pray, I’ll definitely go along with them.
(Narendran Subramaniam is a city-based model)