The Ultimate Inquiry

Pracheta Budhwar
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated fortnightly

'The Ultimate Inquiry' is a deep yet light-hearted exploration of life, world, spirituality and humanity through an innocent inquiry lens. Ever wondered about - overworking of your own mind? why happiness seems elusive? can life be more fulfilling ? and often reflect on the state of our times ? If yes, this is the podcast for you! In each episode, host Pracheta Budhwar sit down with a interdisciplinary guest to touch upon deeper reflections of life and what keeps the world go around in current fractured times.

Episodes

  1. S2 Ep2 : What can we do for a peaceful and joyous world shares Dena Merriam

    21 May

    S2 Ep2 : What can we do for a peaceful and joyous world shares Dena Merriam

    What if karma isn’t about keeping scores but learnings? What if we hold much more sway over collective than we believe?   In this enlightening conversation, Pracheta Budhwar asks Dena Merriam some timeless and deep questions about existence, karma, world peace and more. Dena shares her profound insights on interfaith harmony, peace, karma, past lives, and the spiritual journey. Discover how love, compassion, and understanding can transform individual lives and global society, and explore the deep connections between spirituality, science, and collective consciousness. 🔔 Don’t miss future episodes — follow the show and turn on notifications! 📢 Enjoyed the video? Leave a review and share it with your friends.More about Dena Merriam :Website - Dena MerriamLinkedIn - Dena MerriamBooks recommended in the episode : The Physics of God by Joseph Sibelius Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda A World in Transition by Paramahansa Yogananda Chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Dena Merriam 01:58 The Evolution of Peace and Global Consciousness 06:10 Women’s Role in Peacebuilding 12:17 The Importance of Women Leaders in Shaping Society 17:04 The Impact of Patriarchy on Spiritual Narratives 20:04 Karma: Learning Through Life Experiences 29:55 Exploring Past Lives and Personal Growth 33:07 The Foundation of Existence: Love and Death 37:07 Reclaiming Joy in a Chaotic World 39:24 Countering Darkness with Generosity 43:41 The Karma of Nations 47:32 The Spiritual Energy of Places 53:47 Dena's Spiritual Journey and Discoveries 55:49 The Journey of Recognition and Past Lives 58:11 Exploring Past Life Memories 01:01:52 Understanding Karma and Its Patterns 01:04:54 The Nature of Reincarnation and Service 01:08:22 The Dangers of Past Life Regression 01:12:07 The Role of Children in Past Life Awareness 01:14:57 Blueprints for Future Lives 01:18:21 Creating a Vision for Humanity's Future 01:26:00 Concluding remarks

    1hr 26min
  2. S2 Ep1 : Leaving mindful footprints | The Art of conscious travel with Shivya Nath

    7 May

    S2 Ep1 : Leaving mindful footprints | The Art of conscious travel with Shivya Nath

    Can we explore with compassion and travel with awareness without losing the fun part ? In this episode of ‘The Ultimate Inquiry’, Pracheta Budhwar sat down with with impact entrepreneur and travel writer Shivya Nath. They covered a range of deeply relevant and personal yet universal stories of resilience, connection and hope. Unlock the secrets of mindful travel, sustainable living, and profound human connections in this captivating conversation. An episode filled with chilling anecdotes, inspirations drawn from across the globe and deep reflections about climate, belonging and much more. Most people follow the well-trodden path, but Shivya’s story of breaking free from societal expectations and choosing a life of slow, conscious travel is nothing short of inspiring. She shares the raw truth about risking stability, how to navigate uncertainty and societal pressures with resilience; the impact of responsible tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities as well as and simple but powerful ways to travel more consciously. Why does it matter? Because our choices as travellers and consumers shape the planet. Shivya reminds us that sustainable travel isn’t just about the environment; it’s about respecting the people, their stories, and the land that sustains us all. Connect with Shivya's work at : Buy her latest book - Rootless and Restless Shooting Star Blog Shivya's Instagram Shivyas' Newsletter LinkedIn Stay connected with Podcast at : The Ultimate Inquiry Instagram Pracheta's LinkedIn Spotify chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Shivya Nath 11:43 Navigating Parental Expectations and Societal Pressure 22:17 The Impact of Travel on Local Communities andSustainability 25:59 The Impact of Travel Writing 28:33 Conscious Travel: Making Mindful Choices 34:23 The Role of AI in Travel Writing 39:03 Environmental Responsibility and Governance 42:19 Hopeful Stories in Sustainable Travel 53:02 Empowering Women Through Community Initiatives 55:17 The Role of Women in Conservation 56:31 Personal Growth Through Travel 56:45 Liberating Experiences in Travel 01:03:06 The Impact of Travel on Body Image andSelf-Acceptance 01:07:26 Food as a Cultural Connector 01:22:04 Traveling as a Path to Empathy and Understanding 01:28:25 Inner Reflection and Future Adventures 01:35:14 Closing note

    1hr 36min
  3. S1 Ep8 : Cultivating happiness | The art and science of it with Raj Raghunathan

    04/12/2025

    S1 Ep8 : Cultivating happiness | The art and science of it with Raj Raghunathan

    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 Attia Chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Raj Raghunathan 01:11 Happiness in Academia 02:47 The Journey from Engineering to Happiness Research 05:29 The PhD Experience and Its Impact on Happiness 08:42 Influences and Inspirations in Psychology 11:24 The Pursuit of Happiness: A Personal Journey 14:06 Understanding Happiness: A Psychological Perspective 16:52 The Role of Emotions in Happiness 19:23 Collective Happiness vs. Individual Pursuits 22:01 The Misconceptions of Prioritizing Happiness 24:47 The Irony of Happiness in Modern Society 27:52 Cultivating Happiness: A Choice or a State of Mind? 41:10 Cultivating Happiness vs. Pursuing It 48:24 The Underlying Currents of Our Lives 53:09 Values: Constant and Overrated 58:28 Understanding Happiness: Joy, Contentment, and Beyond 01:04:33 Befriending Uncertainty 01:10:45 Workplace Well-being and Employee Happiness 01:15:19 Influential Reads and Closing Thoughts

    1hr 19min
  4. S1 Ep7 : Spiritual awakening without dogma | Going beyond the mind

    20/11/2025

    S1 Ep7 : Spiritual awakening without dogma | Going beyond the mind

    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 Longstaff 02:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery 05:15 The Role of Gurus in Spiritual Growth 07:48 Astrology and Free Will 10:26 The Necessity of Suffering for Growth 12:34 Balancing Reality and Spirituality 15:07 Experiences Beyond the Physical Realm 18:10 Eastern vs. Western Approaches to Self-Realization 20:49 Understanding Projections in Relationships 23:35 Embracing Emotions as Part of the Journey 26:00 The Dangers of Spiritual Ego 29:12 Meeting U.G. Krishnamurti 31:36 The Nature of Surrender 33:57 Understanding Astrology and Emotions 36:36 Consciousness and Death 44:56 The Heart as the Center of Spirituality 46:47 The Importance of Consistent Practice 50:43 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 54:00 Awareness and Spiritual Growth 54:49 Understanding Our Roles in Life 57:04 The Role of a Teacher in Spirituality 01:00:00 Tools for Awakening and Meditation 01:02:46 Balancing Solitude and Community 01:04:20 Navigating Life Lessons and Awareness 01:07:37 The Importance of Not Taking Things Personally 01:08:45 Finding Your Own Path to Awakening

    1hr 12min
  5. S1 Ep6 : Why humanity still matters in journalism explains Zaigham Murtaza

    06/11/2025

    S1 Ep6 : Why humanity still matters in journalism explains Zaigham Murtaza

    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 Murtaza 01:41 Growing Up in Amroha: A Cultural Mosaic 04:46 Influences and Inspirations: Family and Education 11:02 The Pull of Home: Returning to Amroha 14:36 The Journey to Journalism: A Conscious Choice 18:55 Books that Shaped a Mind: Early Literary Influences 22:52 Reflections on Identity and Community 24:17 The Impact of the 90s on Social Dynamics 24:57 The Evolution of Religious and Communal Identity 27:13 The Role of Social Media in Shaping Narratives 31:46 Maintaining Objectivity in Journalism 36:25 The Loss of Dignity in Public Discourse 41:23 The Changing Nature of Community and Responsibility 45:46 The Essence of Journalism 47:07 Challenges in Modern Journalism 49:21 The Need for Ethical Journalism 51:30 The Impact of Reporting on Society 59:00 The Complexity of Truth 01:06:58 Inquiring into Human Nature and Conflict 🎧 Tune in for athoughtful dialogue on journalism, ethics, and the human spirit.

    1hr 10min
  6. S1 Ep5 : Of equity, culture, representation & jugaad resistance with Parmesh Shahani

    23/10/2025

    S1 Ep5 : Of equity, culture, representation & jugaad resistance with Parmesh Shahani

    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 : @parmeshshahani LinkedIn : Parmesh ShahaniMore about host : Instagram : @theultimateinquiry Website : The Ultimate Inquiry YouTube : Pracheta Budhwar Chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Parmesh Sahani 01:47 Growing Up in Bombay: A Queer Perspective 04:25 The Evolution of LGBTQ Inclusion in India 08:23 Intersectionality and Its Importance 10:58 Urban vs. Rural: A Complex Reality 15:28 Cultural Acupuncture: Changing Hearts and Minds 19:47 TheCorporate Landscape: DEI in India 24:32 The Future of Inclusion and Equity in India 26:02 The Unfairness of Justification in Hiring Practices 28:07 The Business Case for Diversity and Inclusion 28:31 Cultural Shifts in Corporate Inclusivity 31:55 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions 35:26 Identity Beyond Labels 38:30 The Pursuit of Happiness and Meaning 41:13 Finding Solace in Art and Culture 43:38 Representation in Media: Progress and Pitfalls 46:45 Micro-Revolutions: Everyday Acts of Change

    48 min
  7. S1 Ep4 : How to heal, grow and live consciously with Ashwita Goel

    09/10/2025

    S1 Ep4 : How to heal, grow and live consciously with Ashwita Goel

    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.com Youtube channel : Ashwita Goel Instagram :  @ashwita.goel More about host : Website : TheUltimateInquiry and Pracheta.com Instagram : @theultimateinquiry Chapters : 00:00 Introduction to Ashwita Goel 01:03 Ashwita's Unique Background and Journey 02:18 Childhood Experiences and Influences 05:47 Navigating Spirituality in a Material World 11:40 The Creative Spirit of Ashwita Goel 13:52 The Importance of Continuous Learning 17:15 Balancing Work, Learning, and Well-being 19:34 Mind-Body Connection and Practical Tips 22:43 Reiki: Myths and Realities 24:35 Affirmations and Manifestation: A Critical View 26:01 Debunking Myths in Spirituality 28:19 Reality vs. Stereotypes in Spirituality 30:16 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence 32:14 Finding Solace in Dark Times 35:22 Holistic Healing: Trusting the Process 39:24 Reevaluating Values in Relationships 45:13 The Role of Fiction in Personal Growth 47:43 Understanding True Abundance 49:20 The Illusion of Manifestation 51:27 The Importance of Being vs. Doing 53:43 Grounding in a Fast-Paced World 57:17 Understanding Decision Fatigue 01:00:39 The State of Human Evolution 01:04:00 What Makes Us Truly Human? 01:06:29 Hallmarks of a Life Well-Lived 01:07:22 The Pursuit of Happiness

    1hr 14min
  8. S1 Ep3 : The Art of Questioning – Gauhar Raza on Science, Literature & society

    25/09/2025

    S1 Ep3 : The Art of Questioning – Gauhar Raza on Science, Literature & society

    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 Budhwar Website : The Ultimate InquiryYouTube : Pracheta BudhwarInstagram : @theultimateinquiry Spotify chapter : 00:00 Introduction 01:29 Nurturing a Questioning Mind 05:26 The Intersection of Science and Art 09:45 Defining Science and Extra Science 14:37 The Role of Spirituality and Personal Beliefs 19:56 Challenging Societal Norms and Patriarchy 30:12 Generational Entitlement and Responsibility 31:25 The Intersection of Science, Technology, and Commerce 35:36 Reflections on Activism and Missed Opportunities 40:06 Reaching the Masses: Literature and Communication 42:26 Influences of Literature and Poetry on Understanding 52:03 The Art of Definition in Poetry 53:22 Mediums of Expression: Poetry and Film 55:20 The Role of Science in Understanding Society 56:53 Triggers of Creativity: Social Injustice and PersonalExperience 57:58 The Responsibility of Writers and Poets 58:54 Chronicles of Our Times: Literature in the Digital Age 59:40 Disjuncture Between State and People 01:03:39 The Cycle of Learning and Unlearning 01:05:36 Unlearning Nationalism: A Personal Journey 01:08:27 Questions Left Unanswered 01:09:45 Writing for Children: A Formative Responsibility 01:12:43 Legacy for Future Generations

    1hr 15min
  9. S1 Ep2 : Personal Is Political- Preethi Herman on Activism, Balance & Belonging

    11/09/2025

    S1 Ep2 : Personal Is Political- Preethi Herman on Activism, Balance & Belonging

    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 LinkedIn Preethi Herman's Organization : Nguvu Collective About the host: Pracheta Budhwar Website : The Ultimate Inquiry YouTube : 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

    1hr 34min
  10. S1 Ep1 : The essence of being & unburdening with Nithya Shanti

    28/08/2025

    S1 Ep1 : The essence of being & unburdening with Nithya Shanti

    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 Budhwar Website : 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

    1hr 29min

  11. 20/08/2025

    Why, who and what is this new podcast?

    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.

    6 min
  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

'The Ultimate Inquiry' is a deep yet light-hearted exploration of life, world, spirituality and humanity through an innocent inquiry lens. Ever wondered about - overworking of your own mind? why happiness seems elusive? can life be more fulfilling ? and often reflect on the state of our times ? If yes, this is the podcast for you! In each episode, host Pracheta Budhwar sit down with a interdisciplinary guest to touch upon deeper reflections of life and what keeps the world go around in current fractured times.

Information

  • Creator
    Pracheta Budhwar
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Pracheta Budhwar
  • Show Website
    The Ultimate Inquiry