Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam: International researcher converts to Hinduism in Greater Noida

Greater Noida (16 August 2023): Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions. It has complex and deep roots, and involves a vast array of practices and a host of deities. Its plethora of forms and beliefs reflect the tremendous diversity of India, where most of its 1.4 billion followers reside.

It is a culture, a way of life, and a code of behavior. This is reflected in a term Indians use to describe the Hindu religion: Sanatana Dharma, which means eternal faith, or the eternal way things are.

Recently we met a person who had come to India for some research in Education at Grads International School, Greater NOIDA. In this secular and futuristic school, he got so influenced by Hinduism and Bhagavad Gita that he changed his religion and adopted Hinduism.

He also changed his name from Zeno Van Der Zalm to Umesh Kumar. In an exclusive interview with Ten News, Umesh said, ” I just like the philosophy how its written in the Bhagavad Gita. Here I feel the culture by itself that’s why I came to India and experienced Indian culture.”

Talking about his experience in India, he said, “I received warm welcome and hospitalities from Grads International School, Greater Noida and especially from the dynamic Principal Aditi Basu Roy Madam.”

Even though his stay in the country wasn’t very long but he would be taking back an experience of lifetime with himself. “I am here only for 4 weeks but I experienced so many unique things , daily life routine and met lots of unique people. Hardest to explain,” he said, while showcasing his Hindi and Sanskrit knowledge through a melodious chant of Gayatri Mantra.

Elated to host this international guest and give him a positive impression of the country, Aditi Basu Roy Principal of Grads International School, says, “Zeno Came here for some educational research. He is a researcher and computer engineer. He is doing research on special education. He has developed the machine for autistic children, so that the autistic children can talk to that device and get their answers. Those cannot talk to the human being they talk to the machine.”

She also added that ,”Here he has developed the prototype and testing his prototype and researching on that. After this he will also visit 5 more cities in India to test his prototype. And in the end of October he is going back to Netherland.”

Zeno Van Der Zalm‘s story is a true example of how some life changing experiences can alter our entire thought process at any place or time and give our life a renewed purpose, hope and value.