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. The podcast transcript - https://d...
Nov 28, 2023•24 min
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? The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/253-is-sannyasa-necessary-for-the-vedanta-pursuit/ To register for our Vedic Wisdom Festi...
Nov 21, 2023•28 min
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? The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/252-40-everyday-moments-of-connectedness-with-our-world/ To register for our Vedic Wisdom Festival online on 2nd and 3rd Dec 2023, https://vedicwisdomfestival.in/ Our November issue - Vedic Wisdom ...
Nov 14, 2023•15 min
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 ...
Nov 07, 2023•36 min
'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. The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/250-how-and-why-we-postpone-our-happiness-and-dont-even-know-it/ Referenced in the podcast - YOU are happiness - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KiYsWMJn-4 Ou...
Oct 31, 2023•21 min
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. The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/249-the-way-we-view-our-blessings-changes-us/ Our October 2023 newsletter - Aarsha Vidya Bharati - Oneness with the Universe l Vedic Wisdom Festival 2023 dates l Saundarya Lahiri Navaratri sadhana announcement l Seven stages of knowing God l T...
Oct 24, 2023•14 min
How sweet it is to surrender to Devi! We understand the simple meaning of the verses composed by Jagatguru Adi Shankaracharya. Podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/category/podcast/ Our October 2023 newsletter - Aarsha Vidya Bharati - Oneness with the Universe l Vedic Wisdom Festival 2023 dates l Saundarya Lahiri Navaratri sadhana announcement l Seven stages of knowing God l Trigunas as a method of reflection and much more! - https://mailchi.mp/d3c7e9b55a59/aarsha-vidya-bharati-oct2023 ...
Oct 17, 2023•16 min
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! Podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/category/podcast/ Our October 2023 newsletter - Aarsha Vidya Bharati - Oneness with the Universe l Vedic Wisdom Festival 2023 dates l Saundarya Lahiri Navaratri sadhana announcement l Seven stag...
Oct 10, 2023•16 min
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. The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/246-what-happens-after-the-body-dies-4-four-possibilities/ Our October 2023 newsletter - Aa...
Oct 03, 2023•21 min
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? The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/245-what-if-i-am-spiritual-and-my-partner-or-family-is-not/ Our September newsletter - The power of a Vedanta camp l Janmashtami announcement l Value of Values l Dakshinamurti stotram camp report l a...
Sep 26, 2023•15 min
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. ll Om Shree Ganeshaaya Namah ll The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/244-the-powerful-blessing-and-meaning-of-sri-sankatanaashana-ganesha-stotram/ For those who want to go deeper into their understanding of Ganapati, it would be great to listen to the meaning of Ganapati Atharvasheersha Upanishad, the link of which is https://www.youtube.com/watc...
Sep 19, 2023•15 min
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 ha...
Sep 12, 2023•26 min
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. The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/242-is-ego-the-enemy/ Our September issue - The power of a Vedanta camp l Janmashtami announcement l Value of Values l Dakshinamurti stotram camp report l and much m...
Sep 05, 2023•19 min
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. To read the podcast transcript/ article- https://discoveratma.com/241-am-i-progressing-or-stagnating-on-the-spiritual-path/ Our August issue - You were always free l The sacred kshetras of jyotirlinga-s and Shaktipeethas l Impact of SHINE program l Vedanta camp announcemen...
Aug 29, 2023•20 min
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. For the transcript - https://discoveratma.com/240-can-bhakti-and-knowledge-walk-hand-in-hand/ Our August issue - You ...
Aug 22, 2023•21 min
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. To read the podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/239-setusama-4-easy-ways-to-cross-over-our-spiritual-obstacles/ To enroll in o...
Aug 15, 2023•23 min
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. For the podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/238-if-i-am-god-why-should-i-pray/ To enroll in our SHINE Teacher Training program - https://discoveratma.com/shine/shine-for-bharat75/ Our August issue - You were always free l The sacred kshetras of jyotirlinga-s and Shaktipeethas l Impact of SHINE program l Vedanta camp anno...
Aug 08, 2023•19 min
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! For podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/237-i-know-vedanta-but-how-to-apply-to-my-life/ To enroll in our SHINE Teacher Training program - https://discoveratma.com/shine/shine-for-bharat75/ Our August issue - You were always f...
Aug 01, 2023•14 min
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. The podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/236-how-to-accept-that-god-has-created-injustice-and-suf...
Jul 25, 2023•23 min
The devotee wants bhakti, devotion and not mukti, freedom from a sense of bondage. An interesting dialogue ensues between her and Bhagavan Krishna. For podcast transcript - https://discoveratma.com/235-what-happens-when-the-devotee-prays-to-bhagavan-krishna-for-bhakti-and-he-appears/ Please check out our July 2023 Aarsha Vidya Bharati newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/49f324cb76c1/aarsha-vidya-bharati-jul2023 Our monthly newsletter will bring you more happiness, more wisdom and more freedom. To su...
Jul 18, 2023•20 min
‘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? Do read the podcast transcript/ article- https://discoveratma.com/234-why-your-sensitivity-is-a-strength-not-a-weakness/ F...
Jul 11, 2023•19 min
What happened when a dialogue unfolded between Identity and Consciousness? New 3 month course starting 9th July 2023 - Self knowledge and the quest for happiness course - https://www.hua.edu/product/self-knowledge-and-the-quest-for-happiness/ Do read the podcast transcript/ article- https://discoveratma.com/233-dialogue-between-identity-and-consciousness/ Please check out our July 2023 Aarsha Vidya Bharati newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/49f324cb76c1/aarsha-vidya-bharati-jul2023 Our monthly news...
Jul 04, 2023•16 min
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 a...
Jun 27, 2023•28 min
After showing his resplendent cosmic form Bhagavan Krishna tells Arjuna, ‘nimitta 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. Credits for Royalty free music - Krishna-the l...
Jun 20, 2023•20 min
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 oth...
Jun 13, 2023•23 min
'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...
Jun 06, 2023•24 min
Today is Ganga dussehra (when Ganga descended on this earth to sustain, purify and bless all of humanity). Ganga is not an ordinary river. She is Devi. We understand her greatness through the vision of Adi Shankaracharya through his composition, Ganga Stotram. In 'seeing' what Adi Shankaracharya 'saw' and praised of Mother Ganga, we stand purified and blessed. The episode includes the story of why Ganga descended on earth and the meaning of the opening verses of the stotram and it was recorded o...
May 30, 2023•25 min
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. To read the podcast transcript/ article- https://discoveratma.com/category/podcast/ Do check out our April 2023 Aarsha Vidya Bharati newsletter - The blessing of darshana l Dhyaanam course l Adi Sankaracharya Jayanti celebration l SHINE teacher training l Darshana l Value of Values and much more ! - https://mailchi.mp/0e1299422885/aarsha-vidya-b...
May 23, 2023•24 min
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?. To read the podcast transcript/ article- https://discoveratma.com/category/podcast/ Do check out our April 2023 Aarsha Vidya Bharati newsletter - The blessing of darshana l Dhyaanam course l Adi Sankaracharya Jayanti celebration l SHINE teacher training l Darshana l Value of Values and much more ! - https://mailchi.mp/0e129...
May 16, 2023•25 min
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...
May 09, 2023•23 min
