As their next quarterly project Dr Medhavi Jain, founder of Dharma For Life, introduced a new segment, ‘धर्म चर्चा with Youth’, and in this series, she organised a thought-provoking podcast discussion featuring a diverse panel—three philosophy scholars, including Dr Medhavi Jain, Dr Natalia Zheleznova, and Dr Preeti R. Jain, alongside three Gen Z participants: Ms Muskan Jain, Ms Divyanshi Jain, and Ms Mannat Malik. The discussion was woven around the concept of Dharma, offering rich perspectives from both scholarly and experiential viewpoints.
The conversation explored the etymological roots of Dharma in dhṛ (धृ), meaning “to uphold” or “to sustain,” and its broad implications—from personal (svadharma) to universal (sādhāraṇa dharma). The panel also examined Dharma’s connection to moral duty (ṛta), the essence of things, and ethical principles that transcend time and culture.
One of the most enriching aspects of the discussion was the contrast in how different generations perceive Dharma. The philosophy scholars grounded their insights in textual, historical, and philosophical frameworks, drawing from authentic sources and their lived experiences of engaging with these ideas. Meanwhile, the younger participants shared perspectives shaped more by personal experience, viewing Dharma as an evolving, dynamic force rather than a rigid set of prescriptions. Many expressed a preference for listening to their inner conscience over adhering to traditional religious structures, emphasizing compassion, open-mindedness, and personal authenticity as guiding principles.
Here, one is reminded of Krishna’s teaching in the Bhagavad Gitā, which suggests that Svadharma is not a fixed concept but one that evolves based on an individual’s nature, qualities, inclinations, and contributions to society (Bhagavad Gitā 3.35).
What made this podcast particularly special was its unscripted, free-flowing nature. At one point, the person overseeing the video recording—so engrossed in the conversation—spontaneously joined in during a break, sharing his own reflections. Being from Gen Z himself, he resonated deeply with the ideas being discussed. Even after the recording ended, the cameramen and intern engaged in informal conversations, further extending the dialogue beyond the podcast.
This discussion illuminated many aspects of Dharma, its philosophical depth, and how it continues to be understood and valued in contemporary life. It reaffirmed that Dharma is not merely a duty imposed by external structures but a living principle that adapts to personal and societal contexts.
What does Dharma mean to you? Is it a set of obligations, an inner moral compass, or something more?
Watch the trailer and other glimpses (one, two and three) of the podcast at the YouTube Channel of Dharma For Life. Complete video can be seen at धर्म चर्चा with Youth. Order your copy of Matter and Mokṣa.
Dr. Preeti Rani Jain
Assistant Professor
Department of Philosophy
Hansraj College, Delhi University
