From the Nirgun Nirakar concept of Shiva as pure consciousness to his portrayals as Adiyogi, Nataraj, and Sundareshwar, Amish unpacks Shiva’s contradictions—fierce yet compassionate, elite yet accessible, masculine yet deeply connected to his feminine side. He redefines Shiva as a transformer, not a destroyer, where death is merely a passage to creation. The discussion bridges ancient wisdom with modern science, delving into Shiva’s cosmic connection to the Big Bang, the Hiranyagarbha (golden womb) theory, and parallels between Shaivite beliefs and string theory. Amish also explains the concept of Shiva’s Ansh (divine fragments) rather than full avatars like those of Vishnu, with Hanuman Ji as a prime example. He highlights that each of us carries a spark of Shiva, reflected in the meaning of "Namaste"—"I bow to the divine within you". Amish further explores Shiva’s duality as Mahakal, the timeless one, and Bholenath, the innocent and benevolent. He explains that true strength lies in having a powerful mind with a pure heart, warning that an unclean heart with a sharp mind can be destructive, drawing parallels to Ravana. The conversation also delves into Shiva and Parvati’s inseparable bond, symbolised by Ardhanarishvara, where masculine and feminine energies exist in harmony, not competition. Amish discusses the significance of the 16 Somvar fast, how men should aspire to Shiva’s devotion, and whether prayer is a form of bribery. He argues that life is a transaction, but true intent matters. Amish narrates the inspiring story of Saint Kannappa, who proved that Shiva values sincerity over rituals. He emphasises that rituals are like boats—use them but do not carry them. Amish also highlights the contrast between God-fearing and God-loving faiths. Reflecting on Ravana’s obsessive devotion, Amish warns against faith turning into arrogance. The discussion further explores Shiva’s impartiality, suffering, and justice. Amish explains that Shiva grants power without bias—it is up to individuals to use it wisely. Sharing insights from his Mahakumbh experience, Amish describes it as a transformative celebration of India’s civilisational legacy, where tradition is "not the glorification of ashes but the preservation of fire". Amish also explores Tantra, its power, and the purpose of prayer, explaining that Tantra sees the body as a tool for awakening. Furthermore, Amish dismisses sectarian divisions, affirming that all prayers reach the divine. (00:00) Episode begins(02:40) Who is Lord Shiva? (05:45) Did the big bang occur during Shiva’s tandava? (10:04) Shiva: The transformer, not the destroyer (12:21) Avatar vs Ansh: What’s the difference? (13:02) What compels lord Shiva to send his Ansh? (14:42) Bholenath vs Mahakal: Understanding the two forms (18:29) Bhola means simple, not innocent (19:52) The divine love story of Shiva and Parvati (22:17) The story of Ardhanarishvara: Shiva & Shakti as one (23:59) The logic behind the 16 Somvar fast (24:54) Is every prayer just a transaction? (31:24) How can one truly appease Shiva? (33:16) Do rituals still hold relevance today? (36:08) God-fearing vs god-loving: What’s the difference? (41:06) Ravana’s devotion to Lord Shiva (43:13) Ravana was a Shiva devotee, Hanuman ji is his Ansh—how does that work? (46:21) Is Lord Shiva a strict punisher? (47:17) The deeper meaning of the Maha Kumbh (51:33) Do intentions matter in worship? (52:35) Who are the Aghoris? (57:49) What is tantra? (01:00:36) Does tantra lead to harmful practices? (01:02:50) Should you keep a shivling at home? (01:03:28) Is worshipping Hanuman the same as worshipping Shiva? (01:05:20) Why should one pray to god? (01:06:05) How does Amish Tripathi unwind AfterHours? Follow us: Instagram: / allabouteve_in Facebook: / allaboutevein #AmishTripathi #mythology #shivatrilogy #LordShiva #Shiva #Mahadev#HinduMythology #hinduism #interview #podcast