Dr. Ned O’Malia, University of New Mexico
February 8, 2015 (Sun) 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Albuquerque Museum of Art & History

Many world religions have grown from the fertile spiritual soil of India.  Not only Hinduism, with its many branches, but Buddhism and Sikhism also originated in India.  The Jains, many of whom dress in sky robes (naked) are a small but influential sect.  The states of Kerala and Goa are predominately Roman Catholic; the tomb of Saint Thomas is believed to be here.  Jews have had a long history in this country.  Fully one fifth of India’s population is Muslim.  This is a rich soup.  This lecture will look at many of these traditions and their role in the life of India.  Also covered will be the Sannyasins (renunciates) – devotees of Lord Shiva who wander the country, without home,  carrying all they own, their bodies gray in color covered with the ash of funeral pyres as this is where Lord Shiva most often resides.

Ned O’Malia is a Doctor of Philosophy in Asian Religions from Temple University.  He has been teaching at the University of New Mexico within the Honors College as a World Religions specialist for over 30 years.  He has wandered through India, China, Tibet, Burma and the Middle East many times photographing and documenting religious practices.  Ned first visited India in 1973 and has returned many times. Dr. O’Malia lectures extensively throughout New Mexico, the Southwest, as well as on many cruises.  He is also a published photographer; a skill he uses to illustrate his lectures.  And last, but not least, Ned is a talented cook who prides himself on learning the foods and cooking of the countries he visits.

Supported by New Mexico Humanities Council and Sandia National Labs