Both countries appear to be at a historical crossroads. India, with its 1.3bn people, sets to vote in a new government; while Britain sets itself up to leave the largest trading zone in the world to make it on its own way on the international stage. Will Britain and India finally lose their colonial hangovers - one of the master, the other of the servant; to build a relationship that is truly “special”? Is India the silver lining of Britain’s Brexit blooper? Explore this deep and complex problem with our panel of expert witnesses.

In August the Indian government shocked the world, and Indians when it revoked the (in)-famous article 370 which awarded the state of Kashmir special rights. The actions of the government have caused global divisions, as to the merits of the act - was it moral? Was it legal? Was it divisive? Was it unifying? One thing is clear: opinions are divided. The Indian Government explicitly stated as part of its manifesto that it would revoke Article 370 if given the mandate to do so. The landslide victory at the ballot box gave all the justification it needed to carry out the will of the Indian people. But many people internationally have condemned the move as illegal and immoral. Some have suggested that this is a feud about religion rather than land or politics. What are the facts? Can we untangle its complex history and multifaceted stakeholders? Come and explore this complex, nuanced challenge of our times.

We will soon see fireworks lighting up the night skies and shops selling Diwali paraphernalia...but have we now as a society began to lose the meaning of why these festivals are being held? How did the festival of light become the festival or personal indulgence? Join us as we look to explore Dharma and the celebration of Hindu festivals in 21st century Modern Britain.

In a rapidly advancing society, the nature of the environment often determines the direction of change. As such, one aspect to particularly focus on is that of ‘Human Nature’ - our inherent instincts and drives. In an era where the pace of technological change far outstrips our natural rate of evolution can we adapt accordingly? Generation Z has a vast array of information at their fingertips, has this stunted their ability to seek out new answers? What new challenges and opportunities will future technologies present to us? Join our panel of industry experts as we find out what daily life will look like in 2050 and the opportunities as well as challenges it will bring.

How can we translate Dharma, which is universal, into current social values? Come and explore, what marriage ought to be in the light of that nebulous term - Dharma!

As 125 years have passed since the famous speech in Chicago at the parliament of world religions, Vivekananda has undoubtedly inspired several generations of Hindu seekers and activists. But does his name and deeds still inspire generations raised in the west in the 21st century? Has the great swami become a mere brand ambassador who superficially inspires, but no longer calls people for a serious commitment to dharma? Come and explore the relevance of Vivekananda in a modern Britain.

UK Asians spend a staggering £3bn on weddings each year. Are we sacrificing the Dharmic teachings of simplicity and humility in exchange for crass materialism and razzmatazz? Are we devoting the same resources to the life- long commitment of a marriage as we do on our pomp celebrations? Come and join us for a conversation on weddings vs marriages in 21st century Britain. ------------------------------- Follow us on social media to keep up to date with us! Facebook - @VichaarManthanUK Instagram - @vichaarmanthan Twitter - @vichaarmanthan Visit our website: https://www.vichaarmanthan.org

In November 2017 the Yoga industry in the UK had a revenue of £834 million; with consumers being more willing to spend on their health this figure is predicted to rise over the next five years. No longer just trends it seems that practices like Yoga, mindfulness and veganism are becoming increasing mainstream albeit the norm. But isn't yoga more than postures and wearing comfortable yoga pants? Yoga, means union. A lifestyle that is meant to bring harmony and well being into our lives. Today we seldom talk about the psychological benefits of yoga if practised as a lifestyle rather than an exercise. A Hindu practise that is rooted in antiquity. Come and explore the psychological aspects of this ancient lifestyle developed in ancient India.