The Ultimate Inquiry

Does befriending uncertainty brings emotional well being ? Can we unlock the secret to find the space of sustained equanimity? In this episode of 'The Ultimate Inquiry', Marketing professor and happiness researcher Raj Raghunathan explores with Pracheta Budhwar what truly drives emotional well-being at work and in life. He explains how emotions shape decisions, why uncertainty and even negative feelings are vital to fulfilment, and how conscious choices and not societal expectations - lead to real happiness. Raj also shares practical insights on workplace well-being and the books that have shaped his understanding of personal growth.Books referred in the episode :If you're so smart, why aren't you happy? by Raj RaghunathanBreath by James NestorOutlive by Peter AttiaChapters :00:00 Introduction to Raj Raghunathan01:11 Happiness in Academia02:47 The Journey from Engineering to Happiness Research05:29 The PhD Experience and Its Impact on Happiness08:42 Influences and Inspirations in Psychology11:24 The Pursuit of Happiness: A Personal Journey14:06 Understanding Happiness: A Psychological Perspective16:52 The Role of Emotions in Happiness19:23 Collective Happiness vs. Individual Pursuits22:01 The Misconceptions of Prioritizing Happiness24:47 The Irony of Happiness in Modern Society27:52 Cultivating Happiness: A Choice or a State of Mind?41:10 Cultivating Happiness vs. Pursuing It48:24 The Underlying Currents of Our Lives53:09 Values: Constant and Overrated58:28 Understanding Happiness: Joy, Contentment, and Beyond01:04:33 Befriending Uncertainty01:10:45 Workplace Well-being and Employee Happiness01:15:19 Influential Reads and Closing Thoughts

What if who you think you are has nothing to do with who you truly are? What if you don’t need to fix yourself—just stop identifying with your thoughts?In this powerful conversation, host Pracheta Budhwar sitsdown with spiritual teacher Jacqueline Maria Longstaff to explore what it truly means to awaken beyond the mind. Jacqueline shares her journey through Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, and how tools like meditation, astrology, and emotional integration can support inner transformation. This episode dives deep into themes like self-acceptance, surrender, suffering as growth, ego identity, and preparing for a conscious death. If you're on a path of healing, self-inquiry, or spiritual growth - this conversation is a grounded andheart-opening guide.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Jacqueline Maria Longstaff02:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery05:15 The Role of Gurus in Spiritual Growth07:48 Astrology and Free Will10:26 The Necessity of Suffering for Growth12:34 Balancing Reality and Spirituality15:07 Experiences Beyond the Physical Realm18:10 Eastern vs. Western Approaches to Self-Realization20:49 Understanding Projections in Relationships23:35 Embracing Emotions as Part of the Journey26:00 The Dangers of Spiritual Ego29:12 Meeting U.G. Krishnamurti31:36 The Nature of Surrender33:57 Understanding Astrology and Emotions36:36 Consciousness and Death44:56 The Heart as the Center of Spirituality46:47 The Importance of Consistent Practice50:43 The Journey of Self-Acceptance54:00 Awareness and Spiritual Growth54:49 Understanding Our Roles in Life57:04 The Role of a Teacher in Spirituality01:00:00 Tools for Awakening and Meditation01:02:46 Balancing Solitude and Community01:04:20 Navigating Life Lessons and Awareness01:07:37 The Importance of Not Taking Things Personally01:08:45 Finding Your Own Path to Awakening

In the age of noise, truth has become the quietest voice.What if finding truth in the post-truth era begins with just humility & common sense ?In this episode of The Ultimate Inquiry, host Pracheta Budhwar sits down with journalist and author Syed Zaigham Murtaza for a deeply reflective conversation on truth, culture, and the evolving role of media.From his childhood in Amroha to his journey throughjournalism, Murtaza opens up about how community, literature, and lived experiences shaped his worldview. This episode is an invitation to question — how do we tellstories responsibly, and what does it mean to seek truth when everyone has their own?🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful dialogue on journalism, ethics, and the human spirit.Chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Syed Zaigham Murtaza01:41 Growing Up in Amroha: A Cultural Mosaic04:46 Influences and Inspirations: Family and Education11:02 The Pull of Home: Returning to Amroha14:36 The Journey to Journalism: A Conscious Choice18:55 Books that Shaped a Mind: Early Literary Influences22:52 Reflections on Identity and Community24:17 The Impact of the 90s on Social Dynamics24:57 The Evolution of Religious and Communal Identity27:13 The Role of Social Media in Shaping Narratives31:46 Maintaining Objectivity in Journalism36:25 The Loss of Dignity in Public Discourse41:23 The Changing Nature of Community and Responsibility45:46 The Essence of Journalism47:07 Challenges in Modern Journalism49:21 The Need for Ethical Journalism51:30 The Impact of Reporting on Society59:00 The Complexity of Truth01:06:58 Inquiring into Human Nature and Conflict 🎧 Tune in for athoughtful dialogue on journalism, ethics, and the human spirit.

Inclusion is common sense economics, yet a long road to fair representation and rights. In this thought-provoking episode, Parmesh Shahani,an author, inclusion expert, and LGBTQ+ advocate opens up about his journey from growing up in Bombay to becoming a key voice for diversity, equity, and inclusion in India.In conversation with Pracheta Budhwar, he reflects on how LGBTQ rights have evolved, why intersectionality matters in understanding identity and privilege, and how storytelling can transform hearts and systems. Through personal stories and cultural insights, this episodeexplores how corporate India, media, and art can move beyond tokenism to embrace genuine inclusion.More about Parmesh Shahahi :Instagram : @parmeshshahaniLinkedIn : Parmesh ShahaniMore about host :Instagram : @theultimateinquiryWebsite : The Ultimate InquiryYouTube : Pracheta Budhwar Chapters :00:00 Introduction to Parmesh Sahani01:47 Growing Up in Bombay: A Queer Perspective04:25 The Evolution of LGBTQ Inclusion in India08:23 Intersectionality and Its Importance10:58 Urban vs. Rural: A Complex Reality15:28 Cultural Acupuncture: Changing Hearts and Minds19:47 TheCorporate Landscape: DEI in India24:32 The Future of Inclusion and Equity in India26:02 The Unfairness of Justification in Hiring Practices28:07 The Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion28:31 Cultural Shifts in Corporate Inclusivity31:55 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions35:26 Identity Beyond Labels38:30 The Pursuit of Happiness and Meaning41:13 Finding Solace in Art and Culture43:38 Representation in Media: Progress and Pitfalls46:45 Micro-Revolutions: Everyday Acts of Change

What does it really mean to live an abundant life? How to stay sane in the overstimulated world ?In this episode of The Ultimate Inquiry, Ashwita Goel tracesher path from science to spirituality, sharing insights from her work as a healer, Reiki master, and hypnotherapist. In conversation with Pracheta Budhwar, she unpacks the deeper layers of healing, being, creativity, andabundance. They also bring forth the common self-help and spirituality myths while reflecting on trust, values, and what it truly means to live a meaningful, awakened life. More about Ashwita Goel :Website : Ashwita.com and Reiki-Bangalore.comYoutube channel : Ashwita GoelInstagram :  @ashwita.goelMore about host :Website : TheUltimateInquiry and Pracheta.comInstagram : @theultimateinquiryChapters :00:00 Introduction to Ashwita Goel01:03 Ashwita's Unique Background and Journey02:18 Childhood Experiences and Influences05:47 Navigating Spirituality in a Material World11:40 The Creative Spirit of Ashwita Goel13:52 The Importance of Continuous Learning17:15 Balancing Work, Learning, and Well-being19:34 Mind-Body Connection and Practical Tips22:43 Reiki: Myths and Realities24:35 Affirmations and Manifestation: A Critical View26:01 Debunking Myths in Spirituality28:19 Reality vs. Stereotypes in Spirituality30:16 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence32:14 Finding Solace in Dark Times35:22 Holistic Healing: Trusting the Process39:24 Reevaluating Values in Relationships45:13 The Role of Fiction in Personal Growth47:43 Understanding True Abundance49:20 The Illusion of Manifestation51:27 The Importance of Being vs. Doing53:43 Grounding in a Fast-Paced World57:17 Understanding Decision Fatigue01:00:39 The State of Human Evolution01:04:00 What Makes Us Truly Human?01:06:29 Hallmarks of a Life Well-Lived01:07:22 The Pursuit of Happiness

Does art and science together fuel true creativity? Canreligion and science really coexist? Do spirituality and science offer different, but complementary, ways of understanding the universe?In this episode of 'The Ultimate Inquiry', host Pracheta Budhwar speaks with Gauhar Raza, renowned scientist, poet, and social thinker. They delve into the fascinating intersection of science, art, literature, and society. This thought provoking conversation covers shaping ofquestioning mind, the nuanced relationship between science and spirituality, and the critical role of literature in shaping cultural values. With deep insights into the future of science and technology, Raza challenges us to consider what legacy we leave for the next generation. Authors & poets referred – Saddat Hasan Manto, IsmatChugtai, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Kabir, Sahir Ludhianvi, Prem Chand, Dostoevsky, Nikolai Ostrovsky, Chekhov, Pushkin, Kafka, John Steinbeck, Krishan Chander andBertolt Brecht. Books referred - How the steel was tempered, The Grapes of Wrath, The Winter of our discontent, Hum Vehshi Hain,Urdu Ki Aakhri Kitaab.Also check out :Gauhar Raza on Twitter/ X  About the host: Pracheta BudhwarWebsite : The Ultimate InquiryYouTube : Pracheta BudhwarInstagram : @theultimateinquirySpotify chapter :00:00 Introduction01:29 Nurturing a Questioning Mind05:26 The Intersection of Science and Art09:45 Defining Science and Extra Science14:37 The Role of Spirituality and Personal Beliefs19:56 Challenging Societal Norms and Patriarchy30:12 Generational Entitlement and Responsibility31:25 The Intersection of Science, Technology, and Commerce35:36 Reflections on Activism and Missed Opportunities40:06 Reaching the Masses: Literature and Communication42:26 Influences of Literature and Poetry on Understanding52:03 The Art of Definition in Poetry53:22 Mediums of Expression: Poetry and Film55:20 The Role of Science in Understanding Society56:53 Triggers of Creativity: Social Injustice and PersonalExperience57:58 The Responsibility of Writers and Poets58:54 Chronicles of Our Times: Literature in the Digital Age59:40 Disjuncture Between State and People01:03:39 The Cycle of Learning and Unlearning01:05:36 Unlearning Nationalism: A Personal Journey01:08:27 Questions Left Unanswered01:09:45 Writing for Children: A Formative Responsibility01:12:43 Legacy for Future Generations

What if anger wasn’t destructive but a catalyst for change? Why women friendships are underrated in the world ? What’s the connection between food and spirituality ? In this episode of The Ultimate Inquiry, host PrachetaBudhwar speaks with Preethi Herman, a trailblazer in social activism and women empowerment. They explored the concept of 'the personal is political,' highlighting how individual actions can challenge societal norms and contribute to broader social movements. In this nuanced conversation, Pracheta Budhwar and Preethi Herman also delve into the multifaceted nature of political engagement, social justice, and personal growth. Authors referred in the episode : Amitav Ghosh, Gabriel García Márquez, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Isabel Allende, Anita Nair and Arundhati Roy.Also check out : Preethi Herman on LinkedInPreethi Herman's Organization : Nguvu CollectiveAbout the host: Pracheta BudhwarWebsite : The Ultimate InquiryYouTube : Pracheta BudhwarInstagram: ⁠@theultimateinquiry⁠Chapters(00:12) Introduction to Preeti Herman(00:50) Formative Yearsand Childhood Experiences(04:03) Family Dynamicsand Cultural Influences(06:58) Early Rebellionsand Personal Growth(11:46) Empathy andSensitivity Towards Social Issues(16:05) Activism Journeyand Power Dynamics(19:35) The Power ofCommunity and Women(24:16) Self-Reflectionand Personal Growth(29:08) Latest Venturesand Future Aspirations(29:16) EmpoweringCommunities Through Protest(39:08) The Power ofWomen in Leadership(43:25) Understandingthe Personal as Political(50:17) Coping withSocial Injustice(01:01:16) BalancingAnger and Purpose in Activism(01:06:02) TransformingAnger into Productive Energy(01:06:42) Finding Hopein Hopeless Times(01:07:44) The Role ofSpirituality in Personal Growth(01:13:45) UnderstandingLove and Relationships(01:20:41) The Power ofFriendship and Community(01:32:15) The Personalis Political 

Who are you without the stories you tell yourself ? Is renunciation painful or blissful? Could life be really that simple ? Join our host Pracheta in conversation with Nithya Shanti. In this enlightening discussion, they cover a wide array of topics from the nature of reality versus perception to the very essence of our being. Also touching upon the illusion of control, the importance of playfulness, and the paradoxes of existence. Also check out :Nithya Shanti on YouTube and nithyashanti.comNithya's book Unburden: A Book of Joyous AwakeningsAbout the host: Pracheta BudhwarWebsite : The Ultimate Inquiry YouTube: Pracheta BudhwarInstagram: @theultimateinquiry Chapters : (00:12) Introduction(01:20) The Significance of Name and Identity(02:47) Transition from Monastic Life to Modern Living(05:41) Childhood Reflections and Formative Experiences(08:42) The Power of Storytelling in Spiritual Teaching(11:30) The Simplicity of Changing Our Stories(13:26) Integrating Back into the Modern World(17:22) The Limitations of Knowledge vs. Knowing(21:21) The Nature of Renunciation and Letting Go(27:34) Stereotypes of Spirituality and Authenticity(35:58) Breaking Stereotypes in Spirituality(37:37) The Journey of Relationships and Self-Discovery(38:36) The Diversity of Life Experiences(41:40) Navigating Sensory Experiences and Presence(47:41) Accessibility of Ease and Happiness(54:27) The Playfulness of Existence(01:02:37) Understanding Happiness Beyond Concepts(01:06:40) The Essence of Being: Somebody, Everybody, Nobody(01:08:50) Navigating Contradictions: Unity in Diversity(01:11:22) Embracing Polarities: The Non-Dual Experience(01:12:37) Reality vs. Perception: The Nature of Suffering(01:19:29) The Illusion of Control: Life's Unfolding Journey(01:24:41) Finding Peace in the Present: The Miracle of Now

Join our host Pracheta Budhwar in episode 0, as she shares the inspiration behind the podcast.This crisp episode is meant to give our audience a sense of who Pracheta is, the genesis behind the podcast and more.