By Subhadip Majumdar | 06 Apr, 2026

On a serene evening at London’s Barbican Centre, Voices of Faith opened its doors not merely as a gathering, but as a sanctuary for reflection on the human spirit. Voices of Faith brings together philosophies that shape religious belief, theological thought, and spiritual wisdom, using conversation, insight, music, and healing food to inspire compassion.
Rooted in shared ancient ideals of goodness, the festival highlights the interconnectedness and universality of faith.

Among the distinguished voices inaugurating this celebration was H.E. Vikram Doraiswami, whose words cast a gentle light on faith, culture, and our shared humanity.

In an age shaped by artificial intelligence, he posed a compelling question: is there a need for another form of intelligence, one rooted in ancient wisdom? He reflected on how we have become increasingly frenetic in our attempts to correct everything that can be corrected. While technology began as a force for progress, our growing capacity to act has not necessarily deepened our capacity to understand. For him, this gap invites an essential and enduring doubt.

“Faith,” Doraiswami observed, “is the recognition that, as Tennyson said, knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers.” While many aspects of life are ephemeral, he urged us to draw from the deeper and longer teachings of history. These teachings, grounded in ancient wisdom, have sustained humanity across time and continue to guide us today. Faith, in this sense, derives its value from that everlasting reservoir of insight.

He also emphasized that we often devote too much energy to debating aspects of human history that may not truly matter. Despite the divisions that have led to conflict and bloodshed, he reminded us that 99 percent of our DNA is shared. We must not confuse religious identity with faith itself. Rather, faith should serve as a means of self-improvement, a pathway toward wisdom rather than mere accumulation of knowledge.

Doraiswami further reflected on London as a unique space where one can explore faith without becoming entangled in rigid practices or rituals. He concluded with a powerful thought:

“Temples of faith that you see here are also temples of enquiry. They are also temples of rationality. All of these can coexist, and that, I believe, is the best part of faith.”

Voices of Faith thus opened not only as a festival, but as a bridge inviting each of us to walk with curiosity, humility, and wonder across the rich landscape of human belief.
 
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