It might appear to many that atheism is a modern idea. However, in parts of Asia, particularly in India, atheism has been part of beliefs for thousands of years.
Celebrations for Kumbh Mela, 2019.
EPA-EFE/RAJAT GUPTA
Kumbh Mela is the world’s largest congregation of people – so large, it’s visible from space. However, river pollution is a major issue here and new solutions are needed.
Cases of so-called ‘forced conversions’ of Hindu women to Islam have been at the forefront of Pakistan and Indian news. But what about the women’s own choices?
J.S
With Pope Francis recently elevating a Pakistani archbishop as cardinal, a scholar traces the history of persecution of the 2.5 million Christians of Pakistan.
Mahesh Yogi (seated in front) who gained a following in the United States with musicians and artists.
Ben Merk/ANEFO, Nationaal Archief, NL
In the 1960s many Americans may have only known Hinduism through meditation, but the story of this country’s relationship with Hinduism is much longer and more complex.
Sakya monastery of Tibetan Buddhism in Seattle, Washington.
Wonderlane
Only a few parts of Buddhism’s much larger practice were transplanted into American soil in the late 19th century. Here’s how Buddhism changed when it migrated.
Zarina Sodha, from Lakhpath Kachchh, Gujarat (western India), a folk singer.
Anjali Monteiro/KP Jayakrishnan
A crackdown on the beef and leather trades has put hundreds of thousands of Indian Muslims and Dalits out of work, vexing already-tense religious relations and hurting India’s economy.
A scholar explains how yoga is being Christianized in different parts of the world. But some Hindus and Christians argue that yoga is fundamentally Hindu.
Lolabelle, the artist and musician Laurie Anderson’s dog being taught how to play the piano.
Religious conversion sometimes has the added bonus of upward social mobility. But for many in South Africa’s Indian community it had the opposite effect.