Mysore/Mysuru: Strongly opposing political interference in matters of culture, tradition and religious practice, noted historian and author Hindol Sengupta said that the very essence of religious institutions is undermined when politics enters the space.

Speaking at a panel discussion titled ‘Markets, Mandirs and Modern India,’ Sengupta said, “There must be institutional efforts to implement the deeper values embedded in our traditions and culture. Our ancestors left behind a rich spiritual legacy for living a meaningful and purposeful life. If we imbibe those values, we can lead lives rooted in contentment and clarity.”

Referring to spiritual leader Srila Prabhupada, he said, “Prabhupada took India’s spiritual wisdom across the world through International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), spreading the fragrance of our traditions far and wide.”

The occasion also saw the release of Sengupta’s latest book, ‘Sing, Dance and Lead: Leadership Lessons from the Teachings of Srila Prabhupada, Founder-Acharya of ISKCON’.

The session was moderated by journalist and musician Deepti Navaratna, in the presence of ISKCON Vice-President Prabhu Chanchalapathi Dasa.