Podcast

SEASON 2

#269 Which is the best sadhana/yajna in the Gita? Part 1 of 2 | (Transcript)

Although many claims about the efficacy of different sadhanas/religious disciplines are made, the Bhagavad Gita surprises us by telling us the best yajna. In the fourth chapter, Bhagavan reveals other sadhanas/yajnas and helps us see what they can achieve and what they cannot.

This is part one of a two part series on sadhanas.

#268 Shiva Panchakshara Stotram – its meaning and powerful blessing | (Transcript)

In composing this stotram of five verses Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya relates the five syllables – na-ma-shi-va-ya , to Bhagavan Shiva’s glories and his unchanging nature. He initiates us into chanting the mantra and also evokes a sweet surrender in us.

#267 Shiva maanasa puja – A loving mental puja offering | (Transcript)

Composed by Jagadguru Sri Adi Shankaracharya, this set of five verses highlights the power of offering puja with just your mind. This is not a substitute for a regular puja rather an addition to make one’s bhakti and absorption deeper.

First, we hear the story of the origins of the Hridyaleeshwarar temple in Chennai and its connection with a sadhu’s maanasam puja and then we dwell on the meaning of this beautiful stotram offering.

#266 I am the witness consciousness of the 3 states of experience | (Transcript)

We love and thrive on our experiences and crave for more.

Vedanta helps us question if experience is indeed our reality.

Through an enquiry into the three states of experience – waking, dream and deep sleep, we discover the unchanging I that is present in all experiences but untouched by all experiences. Sounds like a contradiction? It is the un-negatable truth about you.

In the process we also mention how Vedanta looks upon lucid dreaming and dream analysis.

#265 Sharada (Saraswati) stotram – its powerful blessing and meaning | (Transcript)

The vision of Vedanta is that you are Brahman, the limitless being. It is not possible to see this wisdom without the grace of Brahman himself or herself as Bhagavati. It is not possible to see this wisdom without seeing the world as a manifestation of Brahman.

And so we worship the wisdom and intelligence permeating the world as Devi Sharada or Saraswati, the Goddess of wisdom to bless us, especially around Vasanta Panchami after the onset of spring in Bharat. We have an added connection to Devi Sharada who is the presiding deity of Dakshinamnaya Peetha of Sringeri.

#264 The What, Why and How of a Tirthayatra (Hindu pilgrimage)? | (Transcript)

Every year, practising Hindus undertake a pilgrimage to sacred sites, temples, rivers, mountains, lakes and places considered energetically more potent with the presence of devatas and Rishis and hence their blessings.

A tirthayatra (pilgrimage) is different from a vacation in which we expect and seek comfort and convenience. What are the reasons we undertake a tirthayatra and how might we go about it?

#263  What motivates and sustains motivation in our pursuits| Transcript

All of us struggle with sustaining our motivation levels in eating healthy, exercising regularly, meditating daily, contacting friends, learning a skill, doing japa or regularly attending Vedanta class.

What are the internal and or external factors that motivate us? How can we do what really matters to us?

Dharmo rakshati rakshitah. Dharma protects the one who protects it.

#262 The Transformative power of the sacred word ‘Rama’ | Transcript

The word ‘Rama’ was there long before Bhagavan Rama appeared on this earth as an Avataara. How did even the name, nama inspire and transform Rishi Valmiki, Swami Samarth Ramadas and other saints?

#261 The meaning of Sri Ramachandra Krpalu bhajamana (the invitation to Sri Rama) | Transcript

As we approach the re-opening of the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, inviting Bhagavan Sri Rama to always be with us, we also invite Sri Rama into our hearts.

It was written by Goswami Tulsidas ji sometime in the 16th century as a part of Vinay Patrika.

We listen to this beautiful bhajan sung by our beloved Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati ji and dwell on the meaning of its verses, leading to much delight and gladness.

#260 The powerful blessing and meaning of Aditya Hridayam | Transcript

When Sri Rama was exhausted and worried on the battlefield just before his encounter with Ravana, Rishi Agastya appears and teaches him this powerful and sacred worship to Aditya, the presiding deity of the Sun.

And the rest as they say is history or Itihaasa. We too can gain victory in our pursuits by learning and chanting this brilliant Aditya Hridayam Stotram.

#259 How to resolve our internal conflicts – a friendly teaching from the Bhagavad Gita. | Transcript

In any given situation, atleast two forces seem to be opposed to each other. Discipline – Laziness, Composure-Stress, Optimism-Pessimism. Bhagavan Krishna says that to be a master we need to direct the dialogue and ally with Dharma. How?

#258 The play of the Atma and intellect – teaching by Sri Dattatreya in Tripura Rahasya | Transcript

Shri Dattatreya is one of the most revered sages who incarnated on earth. And he gave teachings which are in the form of Tripura Rahasya. In the Jnana Khanda which is a section on wisdom, the commentator narrates a story of the Jivatma, its sense of bondage and liberation.

It is Sri Dattatreya Jayanti on 26th December 2023 and we hear his teaching today.

#257 Your Tree of Karma – How did it grow this year? | Transcript

This year was a happy year! We did a lot of karma. We upheld Dharma by practising universal values. Dharma made us happy.

Do you know which values mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita, you effortlessly embodied?

#256 How to avoid spiritual bypassing of emotion in Vedanta | Transcript

All of us have used Vedanta to avoid or bypass uncomfortable emotions or the challenges of daily living, at some time of the other.

If allowed to continue, spiritual bypassing prevents us from enjoying the fruits of this knowledge. And so we look at ourselves clearly and gain the right perspective to our emotions in the light of Vedanta.

#255 The one who looked for God (story) | Transcript

Here is a lovely story from Sri Swami Rama Tirtha, a teacher of Vedanta who lived before Swami Vivekananda.

Guess what the person finds when he looks for God?

#254 The Powerful blessing and Meaning of Kalabhairava Ashtakam | Transcript

Lord Shiva appears fierce and fearful especially to the ego who is challenged by fear and suffering. Then, how can we become fearless and gain punya for all our pursuits? By relating to the fierce form of Shiva, Kalabhairava.

Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya composed Kalabhairava Ashtakam, a set of 8 powerful verses which if chanted at least on an Ashtami (8th day of the full or new moon) will bless the devotee immensely. We bless ourselves by learning its meaning.   

#253 Is Sannyasa necessary for the Vedanta pursuit? | Transcript

As a Vedanta student, everyone toys with the idea of sannyasa, either out of frustration or a fantasy. In the Advaita Vedanta tradition, we understand sannyasa both as a lifestyle and knowledge.

Sannyasa as knowledge is non-negotiable but sannyasa as a life style is optional. What does this mean? How do I calibrate my life in the light of this understanding?

#252 40 Everyday moments of connectedness with our world | Transcript

We often feel disconnected and isolated. It seems like we are ‘living our mind’ and not living life.

Yet we are connected all the time. Here are 40 everyday moments of connectedness with our people and our world.  What might you want to add to the list?

#251 The Powerful Blessing and Meaning of  Venkatesha Suprabhatam. (Transcript)

Sri Venkatesha Suprabhatam is a prayer to Lord Venkatesha (an avataara of Vishnu) to arise, protect and bless the world. We understand the meaning of the 29 verses which paint a vivid picture of the smallest beings like the bees to all the devatas welcoming the auspicious presence of Venkatesha at dawn.   

Many of us have grown up listening to the spiritually uplifting rendition by MS Subbulakshmi.

Then how much more elevating might it be to understand its meaning?  Your mornings will never be the same again!

#250 How and Why we postpone our happiness (and we don’t even know it)? (Transcript)

‘If only’ and ‘But’ – two small words. We understand the big impact these words have on how we think, behave and delay our happiness.

If we yearn for happiness, why would we postpone it. And yet we do! We recognise our eight patterns and break free from them. We can be happy. Here and Now.

#249 The way we view our blessings changes. (Transcript)

Blessings come in many forms. We seek them. We revel in them and we want more. What are the many forms of blessings and how do we view a blessing? Insights from Vedanta will forever change your perspective. 

#248 The Meaning of Bhavani Ashtakam (8 devotional verses to Devi) (Transcript)

How sweet it is to surrender to Devi!

We understand the simple meaning of the verses composed by Jagatguru Adi Shankaracharya.

#247 the court of Emotions – Who is responsible for how you feel? (Transcript)

We believe that different people in our lives ’cause’ our emotions. And so in the Court of Emotions, 7 accused are summoned – Partner, Parents, Work colleagues, Children, Friends, Planets and finally Bhagavan. We hear their defense and also the final verdict!

#246 What happens when the body dies – 4 possibilities. (Transcript)

In the Vedic Vision, the body-mind are mere instruments to fulfill the purpose of life. Depending on how one has lived, either

1. The jiva is reborn

2. The jiva goes to svarga or naraka

3. The jiva is in limbo, lingering as a ghost

4. The jiva is jeevanmuktah, free while living.

We understand all these four possibilities and rethink our choices about life.

#245 What if I am spiritual and my partner or family is not? (Transcript)

From the standpoint of forms we are different. Differences make us uncomfortable. We can make or break relationships depending on how we handle our differences. We seek refuge in Dharma that is Sanatana irrespective of different spiritual paths. How?

244 – The powerful blessing and meaning of Sri Sankatanaashana Ganesh Stotram. (Transcript)

An easy to chant set of 8 devotional verses to Bhagavan Ganesha, we see its meaning and feel his power flowing into all areas of our life.

|| Om Shree Ganeshaaya Namah ||

243 – Life and the purpose of marriage in the Vedic tradition. (Transcript)

If a marriage is just for the sake of wealth, pleasure, love or even children, all of which are conditional, it is difficult to sustain it.

Sharing bits of her conversation with K, a young woman in her twenties who is not clear about the purpose of marriage, Swamini B speaks to marriage not only being a major life goal but also a means to an end. What is that end goal and what are the many things we can learn about marriage from the Vedic tradition?

Call to action – For the last many years, I have been concerned about the rather limited view of marriages that our youth have and also concerned about so many marriages falling apart.  I do believe that like other religions, Hindu couples need premarital counselling and support to help clarify their ideas and come to a common understanding as a couple. Perhaps we could have a group of barefoot counsellors or mentors to take this initiative forward. If any of you want to join, are counsellors or are in the helping profession and are married please do get in touch with me (⁠swaminiji@discoveratma.com⁠) by 15th Oct 2023. We will meet online and evolve a way forward.

242 – Is Ego the enemy? (Transcript)

The ego has a bad reputation. It is often blamed for not enough progress on the spiritual path. In the Vedic tradition, it is none other than the ahankara who undertakes an enquiry into itself, in the light of the Shaastra.

Here is an illumining dialogue between the Atma and the Ego.

241 – Am I progressing or stagnating on the Spiritual path? (Transcript)

If one feels stuck, it is possible that the mind is either 1. Bored or 2. Going through a hibernation like lull or 3. Distracted or 4. Not clear about the pursuit

We address each of these four obstacles on the path of Vedanta.

240 – Can Bhakti and Knowledge walk hand-in-hand? (Transcript)

In recent times a divide has creeped up between bhakti and knowledge and many (wrongly) believe that the twain do not meet. The truth is, 

You can have bhakti only if you know Bhagavan. If you know Bhagavan you cannot help but have bhakti.

We explore the role of bhakti sadhana and bhakti darshana, the vision of bhakti systems and where these walk hand-in-hand with Advaita Vedanta.

239 – Setusāma – 4 easy ways to cross over our spiritual obstacles (Transcript)

Setusāma is a mantra from the Sāma Veda which was Pujya Swami Dayananda ji’s favourite mantra from that Veda. It speaks of 4 Setus – bunds that are meant to cross over by living four values and progress spiritually. That it has its own beautifuI melody is an added joy.

Pranaams to Pujya Swamiji on his birth anniversary today and Happy Independence Day to India.

238 – ‘If I am God, why should I pray’? (Transcript)

The pronoun ‘I’ is referred to twice in the sentence. If ‘I’ am God and why should ‘I’ pray? Can I be both the person and God simultaneously? Yes and No. Find out how.

237 –‘I know Vedanta but how to apply to my life?’ (Transcript)

This is a common question. It is like the pot who was aspiring to be clay saying that, ‘I know I am
clay but how to apply this knowledge in my life.’ We need the viveka, to know what about Vedanta is to be understood and what has to be applied. Life becomes a joy!

236 – How to accept that God has created injustice and suffering (Transcript)

This question has two parts – First, did God create injustice and suffering. If yes, then how to accept it?

Looks like Ishvara has crafted an awe-inspiring multi-dimensional, multi-world manifestation that we call life just like the video game developer has developed a video game. By looking at 5 similarities between Ishvara and the video game creator, we find clear answers to our question.

235 – What happens when the devotee prays for bhakti to Bhagavan Krishna and he appears. (Transcript)

The devotee wants bhakti, devotion and not mukti, freedom from a sense of bondage. An interesting dialogue ensues between her and Bhagavan Krishna.

234 – Why your sensitivity is a strength, not a weakness (Transcript)

‘I get hurt easily because I am very sensitive. Wish I was not so sensitive. ‘ complain many people. What is sensitivity? Can we do without it?

Sensitivity is the ability to be keenly attuned to our surroundings, emotions, and the experiences of others. Sensitivity is actually a gift of this human condition from Bhagavan. What are those 7 ways in which it enriches our lives?

233 – Dialogue between Identity and Consciousness (Transcript)

What happened when a dialogue unfolded between Identity and Consciousness?

232 – The powerful blessing and meaning of Guru stotram (Transcript)

In the Vedic tradition, learning with a Guru is essential for wisdom and blessings to flow in our lives. What makes any Guru great is the Shaastra. There is no Guru without the Shaastra and the Shaastra cannot be learnt without a Guru.

The select verses of what is known as the Guru Stotram, were selected by Pujya Swami Dayānanda Saraswatī. These verses are found in the Guru Gita, a text of 274 shlokas.  Guru Gita itself is from Skanda Purana, one of the 18 Puranas. These beautiful shlokas talk about the glory of a guru, role and necessity of a guru in one’s life, and the benefit of the pursuit of self knowledge. It is easy for the one who has a Guru to have reverence for Ishvara, Shaastra and the Guru. The one who does not have a guru nor seeks one, wonders what all the fuss is about. It takes having a guru, to know the magic that unfolds in one’s life.

231 – Just be an instrument (of the sacred) (Transcript)

After showing his resplendent cosmic form Bhagavan Krishna tells Arjuna, ‘nimmitta maatram bhava’ – just be an instrument or rather a channel for the cosmic plan to unfold. How do we see the meaning of this in our lives? If we are being the mere ahankara, attachment to a limited concept of self then what are its effects? In contrast, how and why should one be an instrument of the divine? Perhaps the simple, elegant flute has some lessons to teach us.

230 – Understanding is NOT equal to Agreement (Transcript)

Many of our conflicts in close relationships arise because we mistake understanding for agreement. ‘If these people really understand us, they just have to agree with us’, we think. However, since we are similar to each other as well as different from each other, we can learn to co-exist with warmth and respect. We explore our natural need for agreement with the other as well as learn to increase our understanding of the other. Our hearts become bigger as we practise kshama, accommodating the other and freeing ourselves from our ragas and dveshas to ‘our’ views and opinions.

229 – Why the need for perfection is not a perfect pursuit (Transcript)

‘Perfect’ preens and struts on the catwalk of achievements with its self-importance. The dictionary meaning of the word ‘perfect’ is to have all the required or desirable elements, qualities, or characteristics; If indeed we used the meaning of the word ‘perfect’ in the sense of what it really means, that is great. But often we use the word, ‘perfect’ in the sense of complete and absolute. And then ‘Perfect’, becomes a sword hanging over your head. The perfect job. The perfect child. The perfect life. The perfect body. The perfect guru even…  This is not the same as having high standards. We see the problems that our need for perfection creates and learn to align our need to our best with Dharma, in the light of the Vedic tradition. Things change for us, for the better in different areas of our lives. What are these?

228 – The Blessing and Glory of Ganga (Ganga-stotram) (Transcript)

227  Brahman, Ishvara, Devatas – same or different? (Transcript)

It can all be confusing. What does the Shaastra reveal about Brahman, Ishvara and Devatas ? Knowing this can direct our worship and our enquiry as well.

226 How to control your mind (Transcript)

To control/master the mind, we have to know what the mind’s functions are and the ways of the mind. What is the imagery of the chariot from Kathopanishad which can guide us?.

225 Karma Yoga in resolving conflicts (Transcript)

As long as we live, conflicts arising from differences in opinions, views and perspectives cannot be avoided. Then, how can we apply karma yoga in these challenging situations? We first identify whether our approach to resolving conflicts is aggressive, assertive, passive, passive-aggressive or collaborative and then work to apply the most appropriate approach. Our karma grows in kaushalam, competent karma offered unto Bhagavan and we are better able to accept people and situations. We fight. We learn. We grow.

224 Runa-anubandha – Karmic debt and freeing oneself (Transcript)

Runaanubanda is unique to the Vedic tradition because it considers connections with different beings across lifetimes. Runam/Rnam, debt is based on the principle of reciprocity – a mutual give and take. If I have taken more than I have given, I incur a debt and have to pay back to that person. If I have given more than I have taken, then that person has to pay back his/  debt to me.How does runaanubanda affect me and how can I be free from it?

223 Adi Shankaracharya and the teaching tradition of Advaita Vedanta (Transcript)

When we enter a lit room, we see the many objects that are around. One thing that most of us miss is the ‘light’ in which one sees all the objects. The living teaching tradition of Advaita Vedanta is lit up by the the bhashyas, commentaries of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya. We see the important features of the bhashya which make it the light that lights up our lives and in so doing, offer our respects to him, on his jayanti. We celebrate Adi Shankaracharya Jayanti on 25th April, 2023, more than 1200 years later by graciously receiving his legacy and sharing it.

222 – The powerful blessing and meaning of Ganesha Pancharatnam stotram by Adi Shankaracharya. (Transcript)

When Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya chants words they become luminous jewels (ratnam). More so when the jewels are in praise of Bhagavan Ganesha and his powers. As Ganesha raises his palm to offer blessings, we understand and receive with open arms.

221 – Laws of nature and Bhagavan – the invariable connection (Transcript)

Many spiritual-but-not-religious people say that they believe in ‘laws of nature’. Then, who put the ‘laws of nature’ together? They will shrug and say, laws of nature were not made by any person or entity. This stubborn insistence of using the term ‘laws of nature’ is a remnant of the 17th century and emerged in opposition to the church. We understand its background and spare a thought for the intelligent being and material that pervades the ‘laws of nature’ – Bhagavan

220 – The powerful blessing and meaning of Hanuman Chalisa (Transcript)

Hanuman Chalisa, sung by millions of Hindus worldwide is s super powerful stotra in praise of Hanuman – his glories, the ways in which he served Bhagavan Sri Rama and the blessings he gives the devotees. Authored by Goswami Tulsidas in the 16th century it is a part of the Ramacharitmanas in Avadhi language. The greatest devotee of Bhagavan Sri Rama, Hanuman blesses us with his bhakti and shakti. After you listen to this episode or next when you sing Hanuman Chalisa you will feel his presence (if you haven’t already). Jai Shri Rama!

219 – The power and meaning of Sri Ramaraksha stotram  (Transcript)

Revealed by none other than Bhagavan Shiva to Rishi Buddhakaushika, Sriramaraksha stotram of 38 verses has blessed millions who chanted it. Even if you hear it once and understand the meaning, you feel Sri Rama’s power and protection softly enveloping you and fortifying you.

218 – Healing in Hinduism through Blessings, Ayurveda and Jyotisham (Transcript)

The tapestry of Hinduism is woven with many healing perspectives and methods that lead to wholeness. These have sustained and continue to bless an ancient, living civilisation. Some of these are – 1. Blessings through our prayers to devatas, 2. Ayurveda 3. Jyotisham

217 – Transforming fleeting experiences into lasting inner resources. (Transcript)

The problem with experiences is that they are fleeting no matter how exalted or mundane they are. Yet we can change a fleeting experience into lasting inner resources – our memories, our values and our learnings. We can mine an experience for its precious gems. How?

216 – Three types of Karma (sattvika, rajasika, tamasika) |(Transcript)

Since we cannot avoid karma, it is equally important to know what kind of karma is to be done and what is to be avoided. Bhagavan Krishna teaches us about the three fold karma and gently veers us to adopt sattvika karma also known as karma  yoga.

215 – Three types of happiness (according to the Bhagavad Gita) (Transcript)

We want to be happy. All the time. And yet, there is a gap in what we want and what we experience. Armed with the knowledge from the Bhagavad Gita of the three fold happiness, we can learn how to ride the wave of our pursuit of happiness.

214 – How to manage anger (the brilliant framework of the Bhagavad Gita) (Transcript)

Unless we understand how anger is born we cannot control it nor master it. All our attempts lead to suppression or explosions. Once we understand the brilliant framework of the Bhagavad Gita and apply it to our lives, then the intensity of level of our anger reduces, our viveka increases contributing to self-mastery.

213 – The heart of a devotee has no circumference. (Transcript)

We wrongly believe that 1) If I don’t feel love, there is no love in my life. 2) To love is simple, but to find the right person to love or to be loved by, is difficult and 3) We think our problem with love is how to be loved and how to be lovable.

We correct these assumptions in the light of a growing bhakti for Ishvara. The practice of loving and discovering love as the fabric of life is enabled by Bhakti. We look at 10 differences between ego based love and a devotee’s love so that our hearts grow. After all, the heart of a devotee has no circumference.

212 – How the identity of the Karma Yogi frees us from other identities. (Transcript)

Generally, our identities are related to the tasks we perform and the experiences we have. However there is a unique identity that of a Karma Yogi which is not a special type of karma. Instead it encompasses all other identities and has many benefits.  What are these?

211 – Glimpses from ‘The talks with Sri Ramana Maharishi’ book. (Transcript)

Recently, I was doing some reading for a talk to be given about Sri Ramana Maharishi, an enlightened Advaita Vedanta master. His talks and some conversations with different devotees were documented. Some glimpses follow.

210 – Madhu vidya – the sweet wisdom (of mutual dependence) (Transcript)

Across all our relationships (romantic, parental, professional, political, economic) we depend on each other. For support, resources, information, collaboration towards our goals and much more. What do our relationships depend on? We undertake the enquiry in the light of Madhu Vidya, a beautiful section of the Brhadaranyaka Upanishad and are stunned at what is revealed.

209 – I know Brahman but I don’t feel it … Why? (Transcript)

‘I know Brahman but I don’t feel it.. why?’ – is the most common question in Vedanta. The reply lies into questioning the identity of the questioner, who is none other than our dear old experiencer.

208 – How we deal with the inevitable pain in any pursuit. (Transcript)

Emotional and Physical pain is an inevitable part of living. The more we resist, the more it persists (in the form of dvesha) and further aversion to pain. 5 teachings for how we deal with pain, from the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and our very own lives.

207 – Kaushalam in Karma Yoga – optimal application of Dharma (Transcript)

Across different situations, how do we know what is appropriate to do in a given situation?  How much is too much and how much is too little?   What is the golden mean in Kaushalam that seems elusive? As we modify our karma into karma yoga we discover the many considerations that shape Kaushalam.

206 – An open letter to your future self of the new year (Transcript)

Dear Future Self,

A happy you in the new year makes a happy new year. You and I have an awareness of our strengths and the areas of struggle. I am here to support you and flow into you. My attempt is not to convince you of anything that you don’t know but to just remind you of a few things. A reminder can be accumulated wisdom, an affirmation or even a discovery of what has always been there. These are …. And nine reminders follow …

205 – How to be positive (in light of Vedanta) (Transcript)

10 teachings to learn, savour and assimilate.

204 – Annual reviews and the framework of vedanta. (Transcript)

Atma, the limitless being has no key performance areas and hence does not need an annual review. But the jiva can benefit from an annual review of life in the light of Vedanta. How?

203 – Who is the greatest? the story of Brahman and the organs of the body. (Transcript)

The answer to the question may not be who you think it is!

202 – Autobiography of a seeker. (Transcript)

Which chapter are you in?

201 – Tat tvam asi – The equation of oneness (Transcript)

All of Vedanta can be understood by this short statement – Tat tvam asi. That (Ishvara) you are. How is this possible? 

200 – Vedanta – Embrace of the sacred. (Transcript)

Through the winding roads of life, the heart longs for sacredness, imbued with the divine. And then, the heart embraces the sacred with Vedanta.

199 – Nine ways travel can increase our adhikaritvam (readiness) for Vedanta. (Transcript)

We travel. We learn. We grow. We come home to ourselves.

198 – The need to control and letting go in the moksha pursuit (Transcript)

Our need to control, master situations and ourselves leads to feeling like we can control life. That very orientation of trying to control does not work in the moksha pursuit? What does letting go in the moksha pursuit involve?

197 – Dialogue between Devi Kali and the Ahankara. (Transcript)

During Deepavali we worship Devi Mahalakshmi as well as Devi Kali in some other parts of the country. But somehow a lot of us are wary of Devi Kali. When one of us encounters Devi Kali, a dialogue that alters the ahankara follows.  

196 – If the Atma, I is unknown how can there be a desire to know oneself? (Transcript)

An important question. Much of Vedanta rests on answering this question.

195 – Living in a vedanta gurukulam. (Transcript).

How different is a Vedanta gurukulam from studying Vedanta in public once or twice a week? Based on my experience of living in Arsha Vidya Gurukulam at the feet of my beloved teacher, Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswatiji, I point out the value of living and studying Vedanta in a gurukulam.

194 – ‘Victory of good over bad?’ (Transcript)

A lot of our festivals celebrate the victory of Dharma over Adharma. Is it just about Devi Durga or Sri Rama or are these festivals also about the battle between Dharma and Adharma that rage in our hearts. We can be victorious only when we understand the nature of these battles and allow Dharma to win. One time. Every time.

193 – The meaning of Durga Saptashloki (7 verses in worship of Goddess Durga) (Transcript)

In this auspicious time of Navaratri, (nine nights) we worship the Goddess by recognising our glories. In this recognition we see that we too are pervaded by her Shakti as the embodiment of sacredness. Durga Saptashloki or Devi Saptashloki are seven powerful verses from the Devi Mahatmyam, a set of 700 verses. Out of compassion for those devotees who cannot chant all these verses, Devi has given us only a set of 7 shlokas to chant called Durga Saptashloki. We learn, chant and seek Devi’s grace.

192 – Connecting with our ancestors (Transcript)

As inheritors of a legacy, if you were to have a dialogue with your ancestors, what would you say and what would they say? We also get a glimpse of how performing shraadhaa karma, a ritual offering was done by Bhagavan Sri Rama for his father in the forest more than 5000 years ago.

191 – Can our relationships create bondage? (Transcript)

If we understand these six conditions of how we allow ourselves to feel bound, we can start to unravel the bondage and be free from it. If the bondage was real, we could never be free of it. If it is experienced we can be free of it.

190 – Welcoming blessings into our lives (Transcript)

To live in the world exhausted, beaten and skeptical is to live in a world without wonder and blessing. Then, what can blessings do for us and why should we welcome them into our lives?

189 – Self esteem is not possible without Karma Yoga (Transcript)

The one trying to raise self esteem and the one whose self esteem requires to be raised is one and the same self, ahankara. And hence self esteem is not sustainable. On the other hand, if one actually sees that the self one refers to is permeated by Bhagavan’s presence, one will not struggle with self esteem issues. What is self esteem and how does it acquire a depth through Karma Yoga?

188 – Is it possible to live a life of no expectations? (Transcript)

Since many of our expectations were not fulfilled, beaten by life, we declare that we will have no expectations. However, that too is an expectation! How can we look at our expectations in the light of Vedanta? This is a repost from a Feb 2019 episode. Enjoy!

187 – Acceptance and the accepting person (3 of 3). (Transcript)

Acceptance starts with deliberateness in giving up resistance and glides into you being the accepting person, the one who is ever awake to what is. This is part 3 of the series of 3 on Acceptance in celebration of Pujya Swamiji Dayananda ji’s wisdom through his morning meditation prayers. We celebrate his blessings and teachings of freedom.

186 – Acceptance, letting go and change (2 of 3) (Transcript)

It seems like if we accept readily we are absolving people who ‘were’ responsible for our pain. We unpack the dynamic of acceptance and blaming the other with the help of Pujya Swami Dayananda ‘s wisdom. These excerpts are from his book titled – Morning Meditation prayers. This is in celebration of his 92nd Birth Anniversary on 15th August.

185 – Acceptance, letting go and change (1 of 3)  (Transcript)

How do we know what to change and what to accept ? We dwell on this question in the context of our relationship to the past with the help of Pujya Swami Dayananda ‘s wisdom. These excerpts are from his book titled – Morning Meditation prayers.

184. The wisdom of emotions (Transcript)

Generally we try to control, suppress and resist our emotions. What if we listen to the wisdom our emotions whisper?

183 – The glory of emotions (Navarasa). (Transcript)

In recent times, emotions have been problematised.

But Naatya Shastra, a classical ancient text, the source of performing arts in India speaks about Navarasa (Nine emotional states) and its related Bhaava. Only a suhridaya can enjoy life by experiencing all emotions which are a gift from Ishvara.

182 – The meaning of Guru Ashtakam (Transcript)

On the eve of Guru Purnima, we dwell on the meaning of Guru Ashtakam, a set of eight verses which speak not so much about the guru, but the need for shraddha and one-pointedness in the moksha pursuit. Prayers that all may be continue to be blessed on this glorious Guru Purnima, the day we celebrate the lineage of all Gurus, a celebration unique to the Vedic tradition.

181 – Being all vs Being special (Transcript)

The vision of Vedanta is that there is only one Atma, without a second. But modern society thrives on individuality, which means that one is separate from the other. How can we reconcile the need to be special in the vision of the oneness?

180. If happiness had a voice, what would it say? (Transcript)

Break the habit of being unhappy. Break the habit of postponing happiness to the future or staying in a shaky place also called nostalgia.

179. The Karma game (of Snakes and Ladders) (Transcript)

9 lessons that we can draw from the game of karma as well as the ancient game of snakes and ladders.

178. What is happiness? (Transcript)

Happiness – is it an object, a person, a place, an action. Vedanta reveals that it is You.

177. The power of a sankalpa (prayerful resolve/request). (Transcript)

In Sanaatana Dharma we do not tip toe around our desires. We state them with clarity and a powerful, prayerful intention. A sankalpa is just a thought form but much stands transformed. With just a small change at the start of the day, karma becomes karma yoga.

176. Oneness despite duality. (Transcript)

Duality is the struggle of me and the other, whether the other is a person, a situation or my experiences. Vedanta does not make the duality go away. Instead one appreciates the reality of oneness despite the experience of duality.

175. Healing in the lap of Bhagavan. (Transcript)

Five year old Dhruva was denied from sitting on his father’s lap. From feeling abandoned Dhruva goes on to heal and command a successful kingdom eventually being the North Star because of his tapasya and blessings. From this story in the Bhagavatam, what can we learn about healing in the lap of Bhagavan? 

174. The six confused spiritual seekers and moksha. (Transcript)

They tried to touch the elephant and expressed their different spirituals goal. But none of it was moksha. How come? To find out, listen and articulate your spiritual goal, if you haven’t already.

173. Taking refuge in Adi Shankaracharya. (Transcript)

In traditional Advaita Vedanta circles, Adi Shankaracharya is revered and worshipped for unlocking the profound truth of Vedanta. Through the worshipful stotram (Totakashtakam) of his disciple, Totakacharya, we appreciate his glory and seek refuge in the guru of gurus. Seeking refuge in the guru is seeking refuge in the knowledge that frees us.

172. Am I enough? (Learning on Akshaya Tritiya) (Transcript)

Akshaya means that which has no decline.

In the light of Vedanta, we enquire into the life that one has and the nature of the Atma, thereby answering the nagging question of ‘Am I enough’?

171. Our feelings have more to do with Dharma (than we think). (Transcript)

We can go round and round the merry circle of feelings and not get anywhere. Instead if we were to pay attention to that which is higher and is the universal framework and guide for our life, we would be happier.

170. Vedanta is not an escape from life. (Transcript)

Seeking refuge in Vedanta and escaping to Vedanta (from the living of life) sound similar but are different. How?

169. The Glory of Hanuman (Transcript)

After Bhagavan Rama Hanuman ji  is deeply loved and prayed to for his phenomenal power, courage, devotion and deep wisdom. Drawing from the many incidents in Ramayana we appreciate and revel in the the glory of Hanuman.

This episode is offered in devotion for Hanuman Jayanti on 16th April 2022.

168. Dialogue between Rishi Vaashishtha and Sri Rama. (Transcript)

Yoga Vaasishtha written by Sage Valmiki is the teaching of self-knowledge by Rishi Vaashishtha to Sri Rama especially when he became despondent in his younger years. Much longer than Ramayana at 32000 verses, we get a glimpse of the beginning of the teaching in the lead up to RamaNavami.

167. You are more than your roles. (Transcript)

9 life lessons about the reality of our roles which bring peace of mind that we long for.

166. Is atma the doer or non doer? (Transcript)

Modern teachings on non duality are quick to say that Atma is not the doer. Then how does one account for the doer, karma, the motivation to do or not do? Explained through a story.

165. Self mastery – the application of willpower and wontpower. (Transcript)

Self mastery is not possible without the framework of Dharma and the blessings of Bhagavan. To illustrate, we take the dharma of ‘ahimsa’, non harmfulness and santosha, contentment to see how we apply both willpower and wontpower for selfmastery.

164. Who dies ? the atma or the body. (Transcript)

We can be better prepared for death (our own or our loved ones) if we understand what dies.

In the Hindu worldview, death is an event for the jiva, the individual that travels across lifetimes. Then what dies? and what is eternally present? This episode shines the light on these and related questions.

163. Dakshinamurthy – Bhagavan Shiva as Guru. (Transcript)

In the teaching tradition of Advaita Vedanta, we pray to and seek the grace of Sri Dakshinamurti or Bhagavan as Shiva.

More so on Mahashivaratri, the night dedicated to Shiva as we pray to the guru of gurus. To know more about his formless form sculpted with self-knowledge, do listen.

162. Karma yoga and time management. (Transcript)

Tick-tick-tick-tick..Try managing time. No one can! But, we can manage what we do in our limited time.

What does the Bhagavad Gita teach us about being single minded about the moksha pursuit ? How does our Karma (in the time we have) become Karma Yoga?

161. Karma yoga and the Dharma of love. (Transcript)

Karma becomes Karma Yoga only if we relate to Bhagavan. The bhakta, devotee is born when one recognizes one’s relationship to the total that is Bhagavan. You then become a devotee relating to your partner, children, parents and other relations with love as this is your karma at the altar of Dharma that is Bhagavan.

160. Does Karma yoga include saying ‘sorry’ ? (Transcript)

Sorry – a word we long to hear when we have been wronged. And yet, a word that we hesitate to say when we have wronged the other. Karma Yoga involves taking responsibility for one’s actions and also one’s errors. What are the shades of ‘sorry’ and prayaschitta?

159. What makes you feel alive? (Transcript)

Whether you want to feel alive or are looking for the meaning of life, Vedanta has an answer for you.

158. Activism and Vedanta (Transcript)

Our spiritual journey begins when we acknowledge the suffering of oneself and others. Then, how can we be engaged in the process of social change without being entangled? Can we channelise our anger at injustice into action?

The answer is Yes, just like many others have done before us.

157. The Dharma of dealing with a disagreement (Transcript)

Disagreement is common. What is becoming increasingly uncommon is to co-exist in harmony with differences. Here are nine points for reflection and action.

156. Can Vedanta and Hinduism work for atheists?(Transcript)

Two stories – One of a monastic and the other of an author/activist.

Both atheists and both transformed by Vedanta and Hinduism – Glimpses from Swami Chinmayananda and Shri. Sita Ram Goel’s lives.

155. Is the pursuit of moksha self centred? (Transcript)

The answer is yes and no. For more listen to the episode.

154. You live and learn (Transcript)

How we respond and live depends on our ability to learn which is for life. What does learning involve and what can it bring into our lives?

153. Panchamahayajna – The five sets of relationships that we must honor. (Transcript)

Our sages offer us a complete framework of living in harmony and connectedness.

152.  What happens when karma becomes karma yoga? (Transcript)

Amongst the many benefits of Karma Yoga, 10 are being listed here as we celebrate Bhagavad Gita Jayanti, the day the teachings of non duality and karma yoga were revealed by Bhagavan himself.

151. How to live in a materialistic world? (Transcript)

..It is possible if you don’t see yourself as merely material.

150. Why do we make ourselves unhappy? (Transcript)

Am I, the subject and the object of interaction separate and hence will the pursuit of connection  be eternal?  OR

Am I, Awareness the basis of the subject and the object?

An enquiry into Happiness in the light of the Upanishads.

A heartfelt thank you for listening well into the 150th episode! 🙂

149. Self love in vedanta. (Transcript)

Respected Sri Vidyaranya leads us to see that self love is self enquiry, in the light of the dialogue of Sage Yajnavalkya and his wife, Maitreyi.

148. Projection in relationships. (Transcript)

A lot of the conflicts in relationships are due to our projections where we attribute motives, intentions and qualities to a person that are not really present. It is important to shine the light on these projections so that we align ourselves with functional reality paving the way for self discovery.

147. (Gr)attitude for the body. (Transcript)

Our bodies act as the trigger for many a judgment and many a frustration in not being able to perform certain activities. On the other hand when we recognise that the body is ‘given’ and different devatas are presiding over its different functions, a natural attitude of (gr)attitude arises.

146. How discipline leads to freedom (Transcript)

No matter how intelligent and successful, no one can have complete control over external events as we did not make the laws that shape them. But everyone can contribute to the desired outcomes. This is exactly where discipline becomes useful in our lives because we can master our attitude which percolates into the wisdom of all actions. What does the Bhagavad Gita teach us about tapas, religious discipline at the level of the body, speech and mind?

145. Making the most of self-help books and videos in the light of Vedanta (Transcript)

One can get sucked into an endless spiral of self improvement and self mastery if we don’t examine what the self mastery is for. Here are five factors that we can consider and apply, in the light of Vedanta.

144. The (Apparent) Paradox in Vedanta (Transcript)

We can learn a lot by boxing things into neat categories. But, what happens when life presents its complexity, nuance and paradox?

Vedanta breaks through the seeming paradox to reveal our true nature.

143. The four essential factors for spiritual learning and growth. (Transcript)

An insight from the Vedic tradition.

142. Karma Yoga – Being part of a solution. (Transcript)

Our biggest problem is that we expect to have no problems. In dealing with our problems we have learnt to feel helpless. This podcast addresses the question of how we can learn to be a part of the solution through the attitude of Karma Yoga.

141. The seeker and the sought. (Transcript)

Seeking moksha, freedom from limitation is unlike any other seeking. How? This episode shares the connection between the seeker and the sought.

140. Letting (e)go (Transcript)

When one enquires into the ego, one’s self concept then we let go of that which keeps us bound. We do the enquiry peppered by two delightful stories from our beloved guru, Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati.

139. Becoming a friend to oneself (Sakhi bhaava) (Transcript)

In the struggle to be more and have more we can be unduly harsh on ourselves. Self mastery in the light of Vedanta is not possible without cultivating the attitude of loving kindness and friendliness towards oneself. A highly underrated and overlooked fact that constitutes self mastery.

138. The dis-ease of digital distraction (Transcript)

We think our digital devices and social media are the problem. Still, it is possible to be focused if we know why we get distracted and how we can get back to ourselves.

137. Bhagavan Shri Krishna teaches vedanta to Uddhava (and us) (Transcript)

The purpose for which Bhagavan became Krishna avataara, a divine incarnation has been accomplished, on earth.  Uddhava, his childhood friend is sad that he will have to part from him. So Krishna lovingly teaches Uddhava (and us).

136. Witness and/or participation in life. (Transcript)

Does being the witness imply a withdrawal from life as some people think?

Or can one be the ever present witness and also participate in life?

135. What is ‘wealth’ in Vedic tradition? (Transcript)

Our relationship with money is a complicated one. We want to live the ‘rich life’ but always feel like we don’t have enough.

What does a rich life for oneself really mean. What is the expansive understanding of wealth that the Vedic tradition teaches? We explore these questions.

134. Abiding in Awareness that transcends time and space.  (Transcript)

In our busy lives as we move from one task to another, one can abide in that which exists in the gap between two tasks, the gap between two thoughts. In that gap is Awareness that is you, whole and complete in and of yourself.

133. Freedom from the addiction of ‘feel-good’. (Transcript)

It is everywhere – the wanting to feel-good. When this becomes the criteria for our decisions then what are its implications?  The Vedic tradition suggests how we can be free from this addiction.

132.  You are pure Awareness.

This episode can serve as guided meditation too.

131. What qualifies a student for Vedanta? (Transcript)

Just as one qualifies oneself to learn any discipline of knowledge, the ancient masters lay out a four-fold qualification to be a Vedanta student.   We reflect on where we are as we renew our commitment to knowing the liberation vision of oneness on the eve of Guru Purnima.

130. How to be non-judgemental? (Transcript)

It is easy when we see the reality of our shared humanity. 

129. ‘I am not the body’ Really?  (Transcript)

If this statement (which is the beginning of self enquiry in Vedanta) is not understood we create obstacles for ourselves.

128. How to find meaning and connections without our loved ones? (Transcript)

A question by a dear listener and a poignant one as we recover from the pandemic and its effects. In the light of the Vedic vision, our work begins during peace time, when we have the leisure to discover and strengthen our existing connections.

127. How to find peace with your parents? (Transcript)

If we don’t do this our unresolved issues spill onto other relationships and deny us harmony.  

126. How to deal with overwhelming situations? (Transcript)

It is easy. We do it all the time.

125. How to deal with vaasana-s (karmic imprints)? (Transcript)

We think we are in charge of our lives. But, often  times it is really our vaasana-s in the form of avidya and its resulting raga that influence and overpower us. What are vaasana-s and how can we deal with them?

124. How can you make work, work for you? (Transcript) 

The wisdom that our work can bring us.

123. How you relate to your life’s situations transforms you. (Transcript)

The four ways we relate to our life’s situations offers meaning to our life. It is easy to shift when you know how.

122. Are we half hearted or full hearted?     (Transcript)

A question for reflection (and action). You can complement with episode #88 – Opening the heart which is here

121. Healing from difficult memories (Transcript)

Do our memories shape our identity or does our identity shape our memories?

The answer is surprising.

120. Nature – the hope whisperer

Amidst despair and cynicism, when we are ready to see and listen, what does nature whisper to us?

119. What can we learn from Bhagavan Rama ? 2/2

In this episode, we hear some glimpses of how Rama upheld his dharma as a brother and a friend. Hence we also hear of Bharata and Lakshmana, Rama’s brothers and Hanuman his dearest friend and devotee.

You may want to complement this episode with the video from our channel on ‘The Glory of Hanuman’ 

118. What can we learn from Bhagavan Rama ? 1/2

Sri Rama is deeply revered and impacts those who understand him.  He is ignored by those who cannot get their head around how he ‘treated’ his wife.

Where do you stand? In a brief retelling of the Ramayana, I offer some glimpses of how he walked the path of dharma as a warrior, a son, a husband and a king. To dwell deeper into his glories, complement with the video (29 minutes) – Bhagavan Rama – his greatness and the mantra