Podcasts

This page features multithemed conversations between Arup K. Chatterjee (author, educator, and historian) and scholars, educators, researchers, thinkers, on subject ranging across literature, history, culture studies, interdisciplinary areas of scholarship, literary writings, current affairs, philosophy, and science. The conversations are hosted on Arup K. Chatterjee’s YouTube Channel. The segment also features readings of poetry, audio essays, and literary writings.

Freedom from Fear | A Poem by Rabindranath Tagore | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

This episode features a reading of Rabindranath Tagore’s poem “Freedom,” exploring its contemporary relevance. Written in 1917, it emphasizes inner liberation over political protest, critiquing societal inertia and urging a transformation of consciousness. Tagore’s vision highlights the necessity of ethical responsibility, connecting personal and collective struggles for true emancipation.

Ram Setu Through the Eyes of a Seventeenth-Century European Scholar | The Legends of Ram Setu | Episode 2 | A Podcast Series by Arup K. Chatterjee

In the second episode of The Legends of Ram Setu, Arup K. Chatterjee explores the historical and cultural significance of Ram Setu, also known as Adam’s Bridge. He examines 17th-century accounts by Philippus Baldaeus, emphasizing a balanced understanding of its geological and mythological dimensions, advocating for evidence-based discussions over superstition.

Applied Spirituality, Science, and Public Policy | Arup K. Chatterjee with Naresh Singh

In this follow-up episode of Legends of the Philosophy of Science, Arup K. Chatterjee returns in conversation with Professor Naresh Singh to explore a question that sits at the crossroads of modern life: Can spirituality meaningfully inform public policy? Moving “slightly counterintuitive,” as Arup K. Chatterjee puts it, the discussion shifts from equations and experiments…

Rationality, Intuition, and the Future of Knowledge | Arup K. Chatterjee with Naresh Singh

In a discussion on the balance of rationality and intuition, Professor Naresh Singh highlights the dangers of overvaluing scientific rationality, leading to societal disconnection and environmental crises. He criticizes data fetishization and advocates for understanding individuality as embodied consciousness. The dialogue emphasizes academic responsibility and the need for integrating spiritual insights into science.

“Invictus” | A Poem by William Ernest Henley | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

William Ernest Henley’s poem “Invictus,” written during his recovery from a serious illness, embodies personal resilience and moral independence. It asserts the power of human will against hardship, famously inspiring Nelson Mandela during his imprisonment. The poem encourages facing suffering with defiance, reinforcing the message of inner strength and self-mastery.

“Ode to Autumn” | A Poem by John Keats | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

John Keats’s “To Autumn” is a profound ode celebrating the season’s rich beauty and transience. Composed in 1819, it explores abundance, decay, and the beauty of life’s cycles. The poem emphasizes presence and appreciation in a fast-paced world while highlighting the delicate interplay between humanity and nature. Its resonant themes offer timeless wisdom.

“Desiderata” | A Poem by Max Ehrmann | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

Max Ehrmann’s “Desiderata,” written in 1927, offers timeless guidance for achieving clarity and inner peace amidst life’s challenges. It emphasizes mindfulness, compassion, and embracing imperfection, advocating for a simple, grounded approach to life. The poem encourages readers to pursue their ambitions with humility while maintaining inner serenity and connection to universal truths.

“A Song on the End of the World” | A Poem by Czeslaw Milosz | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

Czesław Miłosz’s poem “A Song on the End of the World,” written during World War II, contemplates catastrophe through the lens of ordinary life. It reveals how crises unfold amid daily routines, emphasizing human perception of danger and the fragility of existence. Miłosz’s work challenges readers to recognize underlying vulnerabilities while appreciating life’s quiet miracles.

“If” | An Inspirational Poem by Rudyard Kipling | Read by Arup K. Chatterjee

Rudyard Kipling’s poem “If—” serves as a timeless guide to resilience and moral courage, emphasizing composure amidst chaos and equanimity in success and failure. Its paternal advice resonates across generations, encouraging patience, humility, and endurance. Despite Kipling’s complex legacy, “If—” focuses on universal virtues that inspire personal growth and integrity.

Islands Can Drive Global Solutions | Prof. Godfrey Baldacchino with Arup K. Chatterjee

In this podcast episode, Professor Godfrey Baldacchino discusses islands as innovative hubs rather than isolated areas. He emphasizes their resilience through adaptive solutions, community-driven initiatives, and cultural strength. Baldacchino argues that lessons from islands on sustainability and governance can significantly inform mainland policymakers facing similar challenges.

Ramayan of Philippines (Part 2) | Arup K. Chatterjee & Rhodora G. Magan

In the second episode of the podcast series, Professor Arup K. Chatterjee interviews Dr. Rhodora G. Magan about her article on the Ramayana’s influence in Mindanao. They discuss the adaptation of the epic within Maranao culture, the character of Maharadia Lawana, and the blending of local beliefs and Islamic frameworks throughout its historical journey.

Quantum Entanglement and (Mis)uses: On the Limits of Confusion and Understanding

In the fourth episode of Legends of the Philosophy of Science, Professors Chatterjee and Patra explore quantum entanglement, clarifying its implications and misconceptions. They discuss its difference from classical separability, its philosophical significance, and its reflection on how we perceive reality. The discourse encourages careful interpretation of entanglement beyond mere physicality.

Scientific Temper and Self-Realization: A Dialogue on Knowledge and Being

In the third episode of the series, Professor Chatterjee and Dr. Patra explore the concept of scientific temper and its role in self-realization. They argue that questioning and openness are central to understanding reality. The dialogue connects scientific inquiry with personal growth, emphasizing that science and self-knowledge coexist in the pursuit of understanding.

Quantum Cognition and the Narratives We Tell Ourselves

The second episode of Legends of the Philosophy of Science features Dr. Sudip Patra and Professor Arup K. Chatterjee discussing Quantum Cognition and Narrative Theory. They explore how quantum models enhance our understanding of decision-making while maintaining a clear distinction between science and spirituality, encouraging expansive thinking across disciplines without promoting moral relativism.

A Conversation on “The Ramayan of the Maranao” from the Philippines

In this dialogue, Professor Arup K. Chatterjee and Dr. Rhodora G. Magan discuss Magan’s paper on the reinterpretation of the Ramayan among the Maranao people in the Philippines. They explore cultural adaptation following a significant migration due to natural disaster, emphasizing how narratives shape identities and reflect responses to socio-political changes in Southeast Asia.

Exploring Vigyan Vedanta (Vijnana Vedanta): Spirituality Does not Equal Science

In the inaugural episode of Legends of the Philosophy of Science, Professors Arup K. Chatterjee and Sudip Patra discuss Vigyan Vedanta, a philosophical approach integrating spiritual paths with contemporary science. They explore its implications on epistemology and quantum mechanics, highlighting the need for inclusivity in understanding reality, and challenge reductionist views in science.

Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.

search previous next tag category expand menu location phone mail time cart zoom edit close