1. What’s your name, where are you from and how long have you been a member of the TS?
I am Deepa Padhi. I live in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.I have been a member of TS since 1994.
2. Are you active in your Lodge/Section and if so, what do you do?
I am the Secretary of the Debapi Lodge, Bhubaneswar and President of TOS, Odisha Region. I am active in both.
3. How did you first learn about Theosophy or come in contact with the Society?
I am a second-generation member of TS. My father, late Dr. R.C.Rath, an ardent Theosophist, was the founder of Utkal Theosophical Federation and remained as President for a long time. I have been very much influenced by Theosophical teachings from my childhood.
4. What does Theosophy mean to you?
Theosophy has shown me a direction, a purpose in life. I believe in practical Theosophy, that is, spiritual self-transformation and self-less service to suffering humanity. The essence of Theosophy is to realize the Oneness of Life which I believe, can be achieved through love, compassion and empathy.
5. What is your favorite Theosophical book and why?
I have a special liking for the masterpiece of HPB, The Secret Doctrine as it deals with both the Macrocosm and Microcosm. I also like books written by Dr. Annie Besant, C.W. Leadbeater, J. Krishnamurti, I.K. Taimni and Radha Burnier.
6. What in your opinion is the biggest challenge the TS is facing at the moment?
In my opinion, the challenge, the TS is facing at this moment, is in living Theosophy. There is lack of motivation among TS members for self-transformation.
7. Is there anything you would wish for the future of the Theosophical Movement?
Theosophical teachings should not be confined to Lodges and Federations but should reach out to all corners of the world. The focus should now be on Theosophical Education for the new generation so as to nurture the young minds to take the lead to establish peace, harmony and Universal Brotherhood in the world.
From the editor:
Opinions and ideas expressed in the mini-interviews are exclusively of those who are being interviewed. They don’t necessarily represent the ideas and opinions of the compilers of Theosophy Forward. The responses of the interviewees are not edited for content. Some contributors give short answers to the questions while others touch upon the subject more elaborately.