In the serene backdrop of Dharamkot, amidst the quaint setting of Corner Café, sits Dilnek Singh Manchanda, a name swiftly gaining resonance amongst afficionados of tarot and mysticism. An ordinary day finds him deeply engrossed in a self-reading, a practice he turns to for introspection and guidance for the day ahead. What sets Manchanda apart is his profound connection with his tarot decks, each of which embrace stories and energies significant to his journey as a tarot specialist.
Manchanda holds a unique assortment of tarot decks, among which the ‘Raider Waite deck’ carries especial significance as it was his first, a heartfelt gift from his sister who herself is an adept tarot reader. This particular deck, he explains, has been his ‘guru’, a steadfast mentor on his journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. “It’s more than just a deck; it’s a profound part of my spiritual education, nurturing insights about my life and being,” shares Manchanda.
His collection is eclectic, with one of his newer additions, the ‘Lightseer’s Tarot deck’, renowned for its vibrant, modern interpretation of the traditional Raider Waite imagery. This was a conscious choice reflecting Manchanda’s evolving comprehension of tarot as entwined with other esoteric practices, such as astrology. Though initially unfamiliar with astrological concepts, he embraces this deck’s intrinsic astrological elements to deepen his understanding of both tarot and the celestial.
An intriguing anecdote shared by Manchanda about another deck—the tale of its advent into his life—underscores the serendipitous nature of his relationship with tarot. He recounts, “I was exploring different decks online with a friend when we stumbled upon this beautiful deck I felt instantly drawn to. Months later, a shaman visiting my home for a session gifted me that very deck.” This serendipity emphasizes the synchronicity often experienced by those immersed in spiritual practices.
Manchanda’s journey illustrates not just the personal transformation possible through tarot, but also its broader cultural resonance as a form of accessible, personally tailored spiritual guidance. In India, where the mystical often mingles seamlessly with the everyday, figures like Manchanda play a pivotal role in rekindling interest in indigenous and global metaphysical traditions, making the old new again through their personal stories and public engagements.
As more individuals seek methods of self-reflection and spiritual connection, the anecdotes and expert practices of tarot readers like Manchanda provide insightful pathways into the vast realms of personal and collective subconscious. It’s through the gentle flick of a tarot card that many find their thoughts clarified and their next steps illuminated, a testament to the enduring wisdom concealed within these age-old practices.
