In this episode, Kevin talks with Ananthapadmanabhan  Kandhadai (who goes by Ananth) and Johnny John, two friends who have a lot in common. Both were born and raised in India, both have lived in San Diego for over 20 years, and both work as engineers for Qualcomm. But there is one notable difference between them: Ananth was born into the ~80% of India’s Hindu population, and he is a practicing Hindu. Johnny, however, was born into the ~2% of India’s Christian population, and he is a practicing Christian.

As they grew up in differing worldviews, Ananth and Johnny gained distinct perspectives on life, religion, salvation, and God. They discuss (not debate) their philosophies on these and other topics, in addition to explaining some key components of Hindu beliefs and culture (such as reincarnation, cow reverence and vegetarianism). This episode provides an excellent firsthand perspective on the differences between Hinduism and Christianity, not only in terms of specific beliefs, but also with regards to general outlook and mindset.  Though Ananth and Johnny both stuck with the religion of their parents, it was not for the same reasons.  Their discussion shows that it not only matters what you believe, but why you believe it.

“…test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22.

This episode first aired on October 25th, 2015.