The Institute for Science and Spirituality (ISS), a scientific research wing of ISKCON East of Kailash, Delhi, has taken a significant step toward bridging the gap between science and spirituality with the launch of its new podcast, QUEST Samvada. Founded in 2011 and inspired by Gopal Krishna Goswami, ISS has been dedicated to exploring the intersection of scientific inquiry and spiritual wisdom.

QUEST stands for “Questioning the Universe with Exploratory Science and Spiritual Thought.” The podcast brings together experts, scientists, thinkers, and visionaries to engage in deep discussions that challenge conventional perspectives while staying rooted in ancient wisdom. It serves as a platform where modern scientific discourse meets the teachings of the भागवद गीता और Srimad-Bhagavatam, offering listeners fresh insights into fundamental questions about existence. 

The uniqueness of the QUEST Samvada podcast is that seasoned professionals from academia and industry are conducting it, ensuring that discussions maintain both intellectual depth and real-world relevance. By addressing topics such as the origin of life, the limitations of the scientific method, and the nature of free will, the podcast of ISS encourages critical thinking and self-reflection.

After getting recognized in December 2022 as an IKS Research Center by the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Division of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, ISS has been at the forefront of research, organizing international conferences, offering specialized courses, and engaging in scholarly discussions on Indian philosophy, perception, meditation, reincarnation, and near-death experiences, all viewed through the lens of the Srimad-Bhagavatam.

Helping listeners grasp the synergy between science and spirituality, ISS, through its QUEST Samvada podcast, has simplified complex ideas to make them more comprehensible and engaging. Dr. Purushottam Das, the host of the podcast, emphasized its role in encouraging thoughtful discourse, stating, “The podcast promotes critical thinking by combining logic and self-reflection to explore deep questions related to the Indian Knowledge System. It will help listeners grow personally by offering insightful wisdom that can be applied to everyday experiences, fostering a more meaningful and purposeful life.”

The first episode of the podcast featured Hridayananda Das Goswami (Dr. Howard Resnick), a Ph.D. graduate from Harvard University and Academic Dean of the Bhaktivedanta Institute, USA. In this thought-provoking discussion, he shared insights on “Why Philosophy Matters for Science?” —highlighting how philosophical understanding can enrich and expand the scope of scientific exploration.

The podcast has been conceptualized and directed by Prem Kishor Das and Dr. Jyotisvara Das, with Dr. Purushottam Das as the host. Management and outreach efforts are overseen by Akash Sharma and Inderjeet Laxman Das, ensuring smooth coordination and engagement. The social media and graphics team, consisting of dedicated volunteers Kapil Lakhera, Neelima, and Mayank, plays a crucial role in enhancing the podcast’s digital presence and visual appeal.

Speaking on the future of the podcast, Dr. Purushottam Das explained, “We will delve into the origins of life and the cosmos, critically examine the limitations of the scientific method, and explore profound questions of free will, perception, and sustainable living. Additionally, we will investigate the structure of the universe as described in ancient texts such as the Srimad-Bhagavatam, bridging ancient wisdom with modern inquiry. Our discussions will challenge conventional dogmatic perspectives while remaining deeply rooted in time-honored traditions.”

ISS continues its commitment to research, education, and outreach by validating and deepening the understanding of Gaudiya Vaishnavism through a scientific lens. The institute collaborates with scholars from prestigious institutions, including IIT Mandi, IIT Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University, University of Delhi, and more, along with scientists and professors from around the world. Senior researchers at ISS are available to guide and support individuals interested in conducting research, publishing papers, or exploring more profound spiritual and philosophical questions through a scientific framework.

The ISS booth set up during the ILS 2025 in Mayapur played a key role in raising awareness among ISKCON leaders. “We received great encouragement, and many devotees have shown interest in collaboration as well,” said Inderjeet Laxman Das, one of the coordinators for ISS.

Contributions to the podcast and ISS’s broader mission are welcomed from all interested individuals. Experts in science, spirituality, or the Indian Knowledge System can join as guest speakers, suggest topics, or contribute research papers and insights. Listeners can engage by sharing episodes, participating in discussions, and spreading the word on social media. 

ISS also invites volunteers to support the podcast through social media management, graphic design, video editing, and content writing. Collaboration with ISS is also possible through research projects, publications, and outreach initiatives. The institute offers weekly classes on the भागवद गीता और Srimad-Bhagavatam, as well as courses designed to engage the scientific community with Vedic wisdom.

For more information, please visit their वेबसाइट, or you can contact them यहाँ.

Readers can watch the promo video of the podcast here, the first episode of the Quest Samvada पॉडकास्ट यहाँ and also follow them on LinkedIn, फेसबुक, Instagram, और यूट्यूब.