Podcasts about Bhakti

In this 1970s interview, Ram Dass sits down with psychologist Daniel Goleman to discuss why people aren't happier, the power of meditation, and the delight of simplicity. Ram Dass Here & Now is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/ramdass and get on your way to being your best self.This podcast is also sponsored by Magic Mind. Visit https://www.magicmind.com/ramdasshere to get 20% off of your order!This episode of Here and Now is a conversation between Ram Dass and Daniel Goleman. Daniel begins by asking Ram Dass to help us understand why people aren't happier. Ram Dass discusses the suffering that arises from clinging to sense experiences, our strong attachment to our identities, and awakening to the realization that there is no absolute reality.Daniel asks, practically speaking, how a person can begin to change. Ram Dass explores how real change comes from within, not from external circumstances. We can embrace the delight of simplicity and learn how to quiet our minds.Ram Dass provides an example of the power of meditation. He and Daniel discuss entering the space behind thought and how the intellect is a terrific servant but a terrible master. Ultimately, it's better to be identified with our being, rather than our knowing or doing. The Ram Dass community gathers regularly to engage in meaningful discussions about the podcast. We invite you to join us and share your curiosities, insights, and wisdom. Sign up for the General Fellowship to receive event invitations directly in your inbox.About Daniel Goleman:Daniel is an internationally known psychologist and author. His New York Times bestselling book, Emotional Intelligence, was named one of the 25 “Most Influential Business Management Books” by TIME Magazine. Daniel is also a board member of the Mind & Life Institute, an organization that fosters dialogues and research collaborations among contemplative practitioners and scientists. Daniel has organized a series of intensive conversations between the Dalai Lama and scientists, and further merged Dharma and science, coauthoring Altered Traits: Science Reveals How Meditation Changes Your Mind, Brain, and Body. Learn more about Daniel's work at danielgoleman.infoAbout Ram Dass:Ram Dass's spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying millions along on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him. Learn more at ramdass.org.“But we don't yet appreciate the delight that comes from simplicity. Some of our poets, people like Whitman and all, have described it, but we've never really bought it yet. We really don't understand that in that simplicity lies a space in which one can plumb one's own depths of being and appreciate that who you are is an entity that has taken birth, that is passing through a series of experiences, all of which are useful in order to awaken to one's deeper self.” – Ram DassSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Crossing Beyond Maya through Surrender – Part 2: Teachings from Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7.14 by Swami Mukundananda  In this episode, Swamiji continues his discourse on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 14, Part 2, where Shree Krishna declares: “This divine energy of Mine, consisting of the three modes of material nature, is difficult to overcome. But those who surrender unto Me cross beyond it.”  Swamiji explains that Maya is daivi—God's own divine energy—and therefore impossible to conquer by intellect, strength, or worldly success. Even the most brilliant minds remain bound if they rely on ego and effort alone. The only way to transcend Maya is through complete surrender to God.  He illustrates this truth with the example of Meera Bai, who fearlessly gave up worldly comforts, reputation, and security for her love of Krishna. Her unwavering devotion made Maya powerless, showing that when the heart belongs entirely to God, worldly illusions lose their grip. Swamiji emphasizes that true bhakti is not conditional or bargaining—it is wholehearted belonging to the Divine.  The key teaching is that liberation is not achieved by personal power but by grace. When the soul humbly surrenders, God Himself lifts it beyond Maya's influence. This verse inspires seekers to cultivate humility, devotion, and surrender, recognizing that only by God's mercy can one cross over this divine energy and attain freedom.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on mind management. He is the founder of JKYog, holds distinguished degrees from IIT and IIM, and is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. He has been sharing Vedic wisdom globally for decades.  

In this episode, Swamiji narrates a moving Radha‑Krishna story that reveals the mysterious and compassionate ways in which God's grace reaches His devotees. He begins by describing how seekers often feel unworthy or distant from God, yet Krishna's mercy flows even to those who falter.  Through the story, Swamiji illustrates that grace is not earned by perfection but bestowed out of divine love. He explains that Radha and Krishna's relationship embodies the highest truth: God seeks the soul with greater intensity than the soul seeks God. Even when we stumble, Krishna finds ways to uplift us, reminding us that His compassion is unconditional.  Swamiji connects this to the Bhagavad Gita's assurance that those who surrender wholeheartedly are never abandoned. He emphasizes that grace manifests when we cultivate humility, devotion, and trust — opening our hearts to receive it.  This teaching matters because it reassures seekers that spiritual progress is not about flawless effort but about sincere surrender. By embracing Krishna's grace, we discover inner strength, peace, and the certainty that God's love will always find us.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji speaks directly to the experience of fear that grips us when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. He begins by acknowledging how external supports — wealth, possessions, social standing — often fail to provide lasting security. Despite our efforts, fear lingers because these supports are temporary.  Swamiji then draws from Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita, explaining that real protection comes only from God. Krishna assures that those who surrender to Him are never abandoned. Fear dissolves when we anchor our minds in devotion, because divine grace becomes our shield.  Through vivid narration, Swamiji illustrates how faith transforms anxiety into courage: chanting God's name calms the restless mind, surrendering outcomes to Krishna frees us from the illusion of control, and remembering His presence gives us strength in adversity. He emphasizes that fear is natural, but it loses its grip when we cultivate trust in the Divine Protector.  This teaching matters because it equips seekers to face life's uncertainties with confidence and peace. By embracing Krishna's protection, we rise above fear, live with resilience, and progress steadily toward liberation.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades.     

Nind Banegi Bhakti : Pujya Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu Satsang

Nind Banegi Bhakti : Pujya Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu Satsang

In this episode of For Soul's Sake, we explore social media, comparison, and the bhakti path in today's hyper-digital world. From doom scrolling and cheap validation to envy, ego, and authenticity, we reflect on how online life impacts our consciousness and spiritual growth.Drawing insights from the Bhagavad Gita and personal experience, we discuss navigating visibility as a spiritual practitioner, trusting your own timeline, and the tension between wanting Krishna at the center of life while still learning how to surrender. This honest conversation offers reflections for both content creators and consumers on using social media with intention, sincerity, and heart - without losing yourself in the noise.(02:02) – Social Media, Comparison & the Bhakti Path(07:33) – Real Life vs. Social Media Perfection(11:02) – Authenticity, Motivation & Content Creation(16:00) – Curating Your Feed & Conscious Consumption(20:16) – Digital Detoxes & Practical Spiritual Tools(24:45) – Passive Consumption, Desire & Inner AvoidanceWant to connect further?Instagram: www.instagram.com/radhika_dasa/Facebook: www.facebook.com/radhikadasmusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/c/RadhikaDasWebsite: www.radhikadas.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/radhikadasLinktree: linktr.ee/radhika_dasa

This one is all about spiritual journeys—the stories that bring people onto the Wisdom of the Sages pilgrimage: unlikely beginnings, messy detours, and those moments where a single step toward bhakti turns into a full-on sprint from the universe. This episode is a rapid-fire parade of the spiritual plot twists of real humans with real backstories… getting quietly (and sometimes loudly) redirected by grace.  You'll meet the community behind the podcast—teachers, therapists, travelers, skeptics, seekers, punks, adult entertainers—each one carrying a different "how I got here," and somehow arriving at the same place: kirtan, sādhana, and a new definition of what it means to come home. If you love pilgrimage stories, spiritual synchronicities, and the kind of bhakti that sneaks up on you like a monk with a stack of books—this one's for you. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

This one is all about spiritual journeys—the stories that bring people onto the Wisdom of the Sages pilgrimage: unlikely beginnings, messy detours, and those moments where a single step toward bhakti turns into a full-on sprint from the universe. This episode is a rapid-fire parade of the spiritual plot twists of real humans with real backstories… getting quietly (and sometimes loudly) redirected by grace.  You'll meet the community behind the podcast—teachers, therapists, travelers, skeptics, seekers, punks, adult entertainers—each one carrying a different "how I got here," and somehow arriving at the same place: kirtan, sādhana, and a new definition of what it means to come home. If you love pilgrimage stories, spiritual synchronicities, and the kind of bhakti that sneaks up on you like a monk with a stack of books—this one's for you. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

In this nineth episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda compares the paths of rituals, knowledge, and yoga, showing why they are incomplete without devotion. Vedic rituals demand six conditions that are nearly impossible to fulfill in Kali Yuga, and at best they grant temporary celestial pleasures. Knowledge may lead to self‑realization, but even the jnani requires bhakti to cross maya. Ashtanga yoga disciplines the mind, yet Patanjali himself insists on surrender to God.  Swamiji explains that bhakti is amrit swaroopa — the nectar that makes the soul immortal. Just as nectar retains its power whether mixed with milk, juice, or water, bhakti sanctifies every path. Ultimately, only devotion reveals God fully — not just as the distant Brahman or the indwelling Paramatma, but as Bhagavan, the Supreme Divine Personality who descends and performs His leelas.  For seekers, this episode highlights that bhakti is the supreme path, the essence of spiritual life, and the only way to truly experience Shree Krishna's love and presence.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 12, where Shree Krishna declares: “Whatever states of being are manifested by the three modes of material nature—goodness, passion, and ignorance—know that they are all created by Me. Yet, I am not under them; they are under Me.”  Swamiji clarifies that the three gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas) are the building blocks of material existence. Every thought, action, and quality in the world is a mixture of these modes, and all originate from God. However, God Himself is transcendental—He is never bound or influenced by them.  Through vivid narration, Swamiji shows how:  Sattva guna (goodness) manifests as clarity, wisdom, and harmony.  Rajo guna (passion) manifests as ambition, restlessness, and desire-driven activity.  Tamo guna (ignorance) manifests as inertia, confusion, and darkness.  He emphasizes that while these gunas shape human behavior, they are ultimately God's energies, and He remains beyond them. This teaching inspires seekers to rise above the gunas by cultivating devotion, recognizing that liberation comes not by being trapped in goodness, passion, or ignorance, but by transcending them through surrender to God.  Listeners are invited to reflect on their own tendencies, understand the interplay of the gunas in daily life, and strive to connect with the Divine who is beyond all modes.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji continues Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 11, clarifying that when Shree Krishna says, “I am the strength of the strong,” He is not referring to muscular power but to the inner courage that enables us to persevere through difficulties. This divine strength is free from desire and attachment—pure resilience that carries seekers beyond obstacles toward their goal.  Swamiji illustrates this with the astonishing journey of Helen Keller—deaf and blind from infancy—whose inner strength, guided by God's grace and the mentorship of Anne Sullivan, enabled her to learn language, study, graduate, and even deliver lectures by feeling vibrations on the throat and mouth. Her transformation—from tantrums to worldwide philanthropy and public speaking—embodies the Gita's teaching that true strength is an inner force bestowed by the Divine.  He contrasts this with modern challenges, like toddlers developing speech deformities due to early mobile addiction, and highlights the wonder of natural language acquisition—children at around three years forming rapid neural connections (extra axons creating pathways) that allow them to absorb language simply by hearing. This innate ability, too, is a glory of God, revealing how divine strength manifests as human capacity and growth.  Swamiji closes with Sri Aurobindo's insight: you must be more persistent than the difficulty—there is no other way. The path will have challenges, but those with inner strength persevere and reach the goal. This verse invites seekers to purify their strength of selfish motives and align it with dharma, recognizing that the courage to endure is itself a manifestation of God.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji begins his discourse on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 11, Part 1, where Shree Krishna declares: “I am the strength of the strong, free from desire and attachment. I am the sexual union that is not opposed to dharma.” This verse reveals how God manifests as pure strength and righteous vitality in creation.  Swamiji explains that true strength is not brute force or ego-driven power, but the Divine energy that sustains courage, resilience, and righteousness. He highlights that when strength is divorced from selfish desire and attachment, it becomes a sacred force aligned with dharma. This teaching distinguishes between strength used for selfish gain and strength offered in service to God and righteousness.  Through vivid narration, Swamiji illustrates how God's strength is seen in heroes and saints who dedicate their power to noble causes. He emphasizes that even the natural instinct of union, when aligned with dharma, is a manifestation of God's energy—reminding seekers that every aspect of life can be sanctified when connected to the Divine.  Listeners are invited to reflect on their own use of strength—whether physical, mental, or emotional—and to purify it by removing selfish motives. This episode inspires humility and devotion, showing that all true strength originates from God and must be directed toward righteous living.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji continues his discourse on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 10, Part 2, where Shree Krishna reveals: “I am the eternal seed of all beings. I am the intelligence of the intelligent, and the prowess of the powerful, devoid of desire and attachment.” This verse highlights how God is the origin of vitality, wisdom, and strength in creation.  Swamiji explains that true strength is not rooted in ego or desire but flows from God when aligned with purity and detachment. He illustrates this with stories of great personalities:  Bhishma Pitamah, who possessed immense prowess yet remained detached, dedicating his strength to dharma.  Hanuman ji, whose extraordinary power was always offered in service to Lord Ram, showing how divine strength manifests through devotion.  Saints and sages, who demonstrate that austerity and brilliance are sustained by God's grace, not personal ambition.  Swamiji emphasizes that when strength is used selfishly, it leads to downfall, but when it is surrendered to God, it becomes a force for righteousness. Similarly, intelligence and brilliance are not self-generated—they are gifts of God, meant to be used in service of the Divine plan.  Listeners are invited to reflect on their own talents and abilities, recognizing them as manifestations of God's energy. This teaching inspires humility, gratitude, and devotion, reminding seekers that they are instruments of the Divine, empowered only by His will.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades.  

In this tenth episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda explains the divine mystery behind why God sometimes delays fulfilling a devotee's longing. Narad reveals that this waiting is not a setback but the fastest path to Krishna. The yearning created by delay intensifies devotion, purifies the heart, and makes the soul restless for God alone.  Swamiji highlights that when the Lord withholds immediate reciprocation, He is deepening the devotee's love. Just as Shabari waited decades for Lord Ram, or the gopis endured separation from Krishna, their longing only strengthened their bhakti. This divine delay transforms ordinary devotion into the highest form of love, where remembrance of God becomes constant and irresistible.  For seekers, this episode emphasizes that patience in devotion is not wasted time. Waiting with faith and surrender is itself the fastest progress, because it makes the heart single‑pointed toward Krishna and draws His boundless grace.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

Successful but Still Not Satisfied? — Krishna's Measure of True Success | Bhagavad Gita for Everyday Living by Swami MukundanandaIn this episode, Swamiji explores why worldly success often fails to bring lasting satisfaction and how Krishna redefines the true measure of success. He begins by pointing out that many people achieve wealth, fame, or recognition yet still feel empty inside. This paradox reveals that external accomplishments alone cannot fulfill the soul's deeper longing.Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, Swamiji explains that Krishna teaches success is not measured by possessions or accolades but by inner purification and alignment with dharma. True success lies in cultivating virtues such as humility, detachment, and devotion, which elevate consciousness beyond material cravings.Swamiji illustrates with examples of accomplished individuals who, despite outward achievements, struggled with dissatisfaction until they discovered higher purpose. He emphasizes that satisfaction comes when actions are offered to God, results are surrendered, and life is lived in service of the Divine.This teaching matters because it shifts our perspective: success is not about “having more” but about “becoming more.” By following Krishna's measure of success, seekers can experience fulfillment, peace, and steady progress toward liberation.  About Swami Mukundananda:  Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this eighth episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda explains that the sweetness of bhakti does not arise from reverence alone — it requires a personal connection with God. Narad points to the gopis of Braj as the highest ideals of devotion, whose love for Krishna was so intimate that He became dearer to them than their very soul.  Swamiji highlights that God is our eternal relative, seated within us, and devotion is about awakening this timeless bond. If we only contemplate His almightiness, devotion evokes fear and distance, as Arjun experienced when beholding Krishna's universal form. But when we approach Him with the sentiment “He is mine,” bhakti becomes sweet and fulfilling.  Swamiji explains Krishna's law of reciprocity: as the soul surrenders, God reciprocates in the same bhav. Whether one relates to Him as master, friend, beloved, or caretaker, Krishna responds accordingly. This is His quality of bhaktavatsal (loving His devotees) and even bhaktavashya (becoming bound by their love). Saints like Shankaracharya longed to taste this divine intimacy, and the gopis attained it fully.  For seekers, this episode emphasizes that the closest experience of Krishna's love comes when we cultivate intimacy in devotion — seeing Him not as distant Almighty, but as our own. By aiming for the highest bhav, one can relish the full sweetness of bhakti.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

Narad teaches that firmness in bhakti means offering all one's works to the Supreme—and feeling pangs of separation at the slightest forgetfulness of Him. Swamiji explains that the test is simple: is the end result of your action for your happiness, or for the Lord's happiness? When the fruit is for His joy, every activity—however ordinary—becomes an offering.   Swamiji gives practical ways to offer daily tasks: clean your room thinking “He is the owner of this house,” remember “cleanliness is next to godliness,” or prepare as if Shree Krishna might visit today. The intention shifts the doer and the deed—work turns into worship when the heart aims at pleasing God.   He narrates Shabari's sadhana: trusting her Guru's words, she cleaned her hut and path daily, decorated with flowers, and waited—forty years—without losing hope or patience. Bhakti is sustained by faith and optimism: “God will adopt me one day.” Eventually, Ram and Lakshman came straight to her hut, drawn by her unwavering devotion.   Swamiji highlights the gopis' example: immersed in household life, they kept Krishna's name on their lips, tears of loving devotion in their eyes, and minds absorbed in Him. They even adorned their bodies considering them Krishna's property—every act, every adornment, offered to the Lord.   Narad adds a tender warning: when the mind slips from remembrance, there should be restlessness—“What happened? I forgot my Lord.” Swamiji echoes Hanuman's sentiment: there is one calamity—forgetfulness of God—and one fortune—His remembrance. This is the heartbeat of bhakti: work diligently, remember constantly, and offer everything for His happiness.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this sixth episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda reveals that the only genuine way to connect with Shree Krishna is through bhakti. Rituals, intellectual pursuits, and external practices may refine the mind or discipline the body, but they cannot bind the Lord. Only devotion — pure, selfless love for God — has the power to draw His grace.  Swamiji explains that many seekers mistakenly rely on mechanical worship or pride in knowledge, but Narad clarifies that these are secondary. Bhakti is the essence of spiritual life, the heartbeat of the soul, and the direct path to God‑realization. Saints and devotees across ages attained liberation not through scholarly brilliance or elaborate ceremonies, but through heartfelt surrender to Krishna.  For seekers, this episode is a reminder that devotion is not optional — it is the only way to truly connect with the Divine. By cultivating bhakti, one transcends the limitations of intellect and ritual, experiencing the joy of union with Shree Krishna.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji redefines success through Krishna's lens, showing that true achievement is not about defeating others but about elevating oneself. He begins with the story of a little girl at her school sports day who, despite finishing last, was praised by her father for being ahead of many others. The lesson: success is relative, and each person runs a unique race.  Swamiji explains that worldly measures of success — medals, rankings, comparisons — often trap us in competition and dissatisfaction. Krishna, however, teaches that the real race is internal: to conquer the mind and rise above its weaknesses. Quoting the Bhagavad Gita (6.5), Swamiji highlights: “Elevate yourself through the power of your mind, and do not degrade yourself. For the mind can be your best friend, or your worst enemy.”  He emphasizes that success which pleases God is measured by self‑improvement, humility, and sincerity in effort. Every setback becomes a lesson, every step forward an offering to the Divine. When we stop comparing ourselves to others and focus on becoming better than our past selves, there is no failure — only growth.  This teaching matters because it liberates seekers from the anxiety of competition and redirects them toward inner progress. By following Krishna's definition of success, we cultivate resilience, peace, and devotion — achievements that truly please God.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 14, where Shree Krishna declares: “This divine energy of Mine, consisting of the three modes of material nature, is difficult to overcome. But those who surrender unto Me cross beyond it.”  Swamiji narrates how Maya, God's divine energy, operates through the three gunas—sattva, rajas, and tamas—to bind the soul in illusion. He emphasizes that Maya is not ordinary; it is daivi (divine), meaning it belongs to God Himself and is therefore extremely powerful. Even the most intelligent or strong cannot escape its grip by their own effort.  He illustrates how Maya deludes people into thinking the material world is independent, making them chase temporary pleasures and forget the eternal truth of God. Swamiji explains that this is why saints, philosophers, and even great leaders often remain bound—they rely on intellect or strength, but Maya can only be transcended through surrender to God.  The key teaching is that liberation is not achieved by personal power but by bhakti (devotion). When the soul humbly surrenders, God's grace lifts it beyond Maya's influence. Swamiji inspires listeners to cultivate humility, devotion, and surrender, reminding them that only by God's mercy can one cross over this divine energy and attain freedom.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji explains Krishna's profound teaching on the dangers of judging others and how true wisdom lies in cultivating humility and compassion. He begins by highlighting how quick judgments often arise from limited perception — we see only a fragment of someone's life and assume we know the whole story.  Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, Swamiji emphasizes that Krishna urges seekers to look beyond superficial appearances and recognize the divine spark in every soul. He illustrates this with stories and analogies showing how premature judgments can lead to misunderstanding, while patience and empathy reveal deeper truths.  Swamiji explains that judging others stems from ego, whereas spiritual progress requires surrender and humility. By refraining from judgment, seekers purify their minds, develop compassion, and align themselves with Krishna's vision of equality.  This teaching matters because it transforms relationships and inner life: instead of criticism, we cultivate understanding; instead of arrogance, humility; instead of division, unity. By practicing Krishna's timeless wisdom, seekers can rise above judgment, live harmoniously, and progress steadily toward liberation.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 13, where Shree Krishna declares: “Deluded by the three modes of material nature—sattva, rajas, and tamas—the whole world does not recognize Me, who am beyond them and imperishable.”  Swamiji narrates how the three gunas—goodness, passion, and ignorance—are God's energies that govern material existence, yet they also act as a veil. Because the soul is conditioned by these gunas, it fails to perceive God's transcendence. Even sattva, though elevating, binds through attachment to knowledge and happiness; rajas binds through desire and restlessness; tamas binds through inertia and delusion.  He emphasizes that this veil is Maya, God's divine energy that bewilders the soul. Maya makes the world appear independent, hiding the truth that everything rests upon God. Swamiji explains that this is why even the most intelligent people—scientists, philosophers, leaders—often fail to recognize the Divine, being caught in the net of the gunas.  The key teaching is that liberation from Maya is only possible through bhakti (devotion). By surrendering to God, seekers rise above the gunas and perceive His imperishable nature. Swamiji inspires listeners to reflect on how the gunas operate in their own lives and to cultivate devotion as the path to transcendence.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

Sant Nirankari Adhyatmik Sthal, Samalkha -Haryana, January 11, 2026: Bhakti Parv -Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj

A higher spiritual taste doesn't negotiate with desire—it demotes it. From Govardhan Ecovillage in Maharashtra, Raghunath and Kaustubha riff on William James (father of modern psychology), the bhakti renaissance in India, and the strange way spiritual culture can make renunciation feel effortless: not by suppression, but by a new attraction taking the center of the heart. Along the way: kirtan "clubbing," deep-rooted devotion that suddenly shoots up like bamboo, and a reminder from the Bhāgavatam that when Krishna's touches the soul, even heaven, power, siddhis, and liberation start to look like broken glass next to the real thing. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

A modern seeker walks away from a high-pressure career and an ancient Sanskrit text tells a story about giving up one's egoistic false strength. Recorded live from Govardhan Eco-Village, this episode brings together Grace's journey from corporate life to devotional service and Krishna's confrontation with the serpent Kāliya—revealing how inner clarity often arrives when our usual strategies fail. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

A higher spiritual taste doesn't negotiate with desire—it demotes it. From Govardhan Ecovillage in Maharashtra, Raghunath and Kaustubha riff on William James (father of modern psychology), the bhakti renaissance in India, and the strange way spiritual culture can make renunciation feel effortless: not by suppression, but by a new attraction taking the center of the heart. Along the way: kirtan "clubbing," deep-rooted devotion that suddenly shoots up like bamboo, and a reminder from the Bhāgavatam that when Krishna's touches the soul, even heaven, power, siddhis, and liberation start to look like broken glass next to the real thing. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

A modern seeker walks away from a high-pressure career and an ancient Sanskrit text tells a story about giving up one's egoistic false strength. Recorded live from Govardhan Eco-Village, this episode brings together Grace's journey from corporate life to devotional service and Krishna's confrontation with the serpent Kāliya—revealing how inner clarity often arrives when our usual strategies fail. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Maya spelled backwards is "I am"

In this episode of For Soul's Sake, we explore how bhakti invites us to respond to suffering with compassion, rather than asking why it exists. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, the Srimad Bhagavatam, and Krishna's pastimes, this talk reminds us that compassion is woven into devotion itself - serving others is serving God.From global tragedies to everyday moments we're tempted to scroll past, we're encouraged to take responsibility through small, sincere acts of care. No act of compassion is ever insignificant.How will you respond when you see suffering today?Want to connect further?Instagram: www.instagram.com/radhika_dasa/Facebook: www.facebook.com/radhikadasmusicYouTube: www.youtube.com/c/RadhikaDasWebsite: www.radhikadas.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/radhikadasLinktree: linktr.ee/radhika_dasa

Six years ago we hit "record" with shaky internet and big dreams—then a lucky break, and a global lockdown helped turn Wisdom of the Sages into a daily lifeline for thousands of listeners.   In this special 6-Year Anniversary episode—recorded live from Govardhan Ecovillage, India—listeners step up to share how daily Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, bhakti-yoga, kirtan, and satsang pulled them out of anxiety, addiction, trauma, and spiritual confusion—and into something steady, practical, and strangely joyful. From Berlin to Manhattan to Asheville, you'll hear how the "sages in the pages" become real when the teachings move from information to transformation.

Six years ago we hit "record" with shaky internet and big dreams—then a lucky break, and a global lockdown helped turn Wisdom of the Sages into a daily lifeline for thousands of listeners.   In this special 6-Year Anniversary episode—recorded live from Govardhan Ecovillage, India—listeners step up to share how daily Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, bhakti-yoga, kirtan, and satsang pulled them out of anxiety, addiction, trauma, and spiritual confusion—and into something steady, practical, and strangely joyful. From Berlin to Manhattan to Asheville, you'll hear how the "sages in the pages" become real when the teachings move from information to transformation.

In this talk from the 1980s, Ram Dass explores different forms of yoga—hatha, dhyan, jnana, bhakti, tantra, and more—and answers questions from the audience. Get your copy of All In This Together, the latest book from Jack Kornfield! Let this new book be your guide, as Jack reveals how to navigate our human experience with wisdom and care. Inside you'll find a beautiful collection of stories, inspiration for conflict resolution, and powerful teachings on healing, justice, and human kindness—anchored in the teachings of the Buddha and poetry from luminary voices like Mary Oliver. Click here to learn more!This episode of Here and Now comes from an event in Irvine, CA, called “Living Consciously in the 1980s.” Ram Dass talks about how it's only when we realize we aren't who we think we are that the journey of awakening begins. Fortunately, there is help along this path in the various types of yoga, or methods for coming into the One.Ram Dass explores different forms of yoga, including hatha yoga (energy), dhyan yoga (meditation), jnana yoga (wisdom), bhakti yoga (devotion), and tantric yoga (senses). He says we should work with whichever form calls to us, or we can be a “chicken soup eclectic” like he is. Finally, Ram Dass answers some questions from the audience. He talks about intuition, the darkness that comes before spiritual growth, social identities, dealing with attachment to your child's predicament, and more.The Ram Dass community gathers regularly to engage in meaningful discussions about the podcast. We invite you to join us and share your curiosities, insights, and wisdom. Sign up for the General Fellowship to receive event invitations directly in your inbox.About Ram Dass:Ram Dass's spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying millions along on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him. Learn more at ramdass.org.“What I'm saying to you is, which yoga is appropriate for any human being, only that human being can figure out. And you can only figure it out by trying and testing and looking and quieting your heart and opening. One of you, it will be perfect for you to study and read holy book and Vedic tracts and things. For someone else, it'll be absolutely perfect to start to work with the energy. For someone else, it'll be perfect to do tantra. And it is not better or worse. These are merely different strategies. And some you will be sort of like I am, sort of like a chicken soup eclectic. And I do sort of play with all of these at a kind of superficial level.” – Ram DassSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Walking The Path of Bhakti with @NamarasaPodcast | NJ, USA | Svayam Bhagavan Keshava Maharaja by Wisdom That Breathes by Keshava Maharaja

What does it mean to "Work a program"

Bhakti-yoga doesn't ask us to escape the world—it shows us how to set it right by placing love at the center. This episode begins with a "zoomed-out" perspective on human conflict and confusion, then pivots to a vision of reality grounded in three distinct expressions of divine love. Through a sequence of luminous verses, the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam reveals a theology in which the soul of the universe is present and personal, reciprocating heart-melting love through the songs of His friends, the shy glances of the girls of Vṛndāvana, and the protective, affectionate care of His mothers. As Raghunath and Kaustubha explore these verses, a deeper pattern emerges: when life lacks a spiritual center, even small grievances grow large and divisions harden. When consciousness is centered on bhakti, the heart softens, perspective widens, and love becomes the organizing principle of life. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

In this episode, Kaustubha shares deeply moving stories from his recent Vaishnava Scholars' retreat in Vṛndāvana—revealing why Vrindavan bhakti feels so alive and unmistakably different. Through encounters with Goswamis and sacred lineages, visits to the Rādhā-vallabha and Rādhā-ramaṇa temples, and time at the mystic Tatiyā Sthān—where the "soft sand" of Vrindavan is worshiped by off-the-grid sādhus—a vision of devotion emerges that isn't driven by rules or rituals, but by intimate love that captures Krishna's heart. With warmth, humor, and insight, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the four major Vrindavan bhakti lineages, why Śrī Chaitanya empowered the Six Goswamis to ground ecstasy in Vedānta, and how history, politics, and bhakti unexpectedly converged in Vrindavan through figures like Akbar, Aurangzeb, the Rajputs, and Shivaji. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Bhakti-yoga doesn't ask us to escape the world—it shows us how to set it right by placing love at the center. This episode begins with a "zoomed-out" perspective on human conflict and confusion, then pivots to a vision of reality grounded in three distinct expressions of divine love. Through a sequence of luminous verses, the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam reveals a theology in which the soul of the universe is present and personal, reciprocating heart-melting love through the songs of His friends, the shy glances of the girls of Vṛndāvana, and the protective, affectionate care of His mothers. As Raghunath and Kaustubha explore these verses, a deeper pattern emerges: when life lacks a spiritual center, even small grievances grow large and divisions harden. When consciousness is centered on bhakti, the heart softens, perspective widens, and love becomes the organizing principle of life. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

In this episode, Kaustubha shares deeply moving stories from his recent Vaishnava Scholars' retreat in Vṛndāvana—revealing why Vrindavan bhakti feels so alive and unmistakably different. Through encounters with Goswamis and sacred lineages, visits to the Rādhā-vallabha and Rādhā-ramaṇa temples, and time at the mystic Tatiyā Sthān—where the "soft sand" of Vrindavan is worshiped by off-the-grid sādhus—a vision of devotion emerges that isn't driven by rules or rituals, but by intimate love that captures Krishna's heart. With warmth, humor, and insight, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the four major Vrindavan bhakti lineages, why Śrī Chaitanya empowered the Six Goswamis to ground ecstasy in Vedānta, and how history, politics, and bhakti unexpectedly converged in Vrindavan through figures like Akbar, Aurangzeb, the Rajputs, and Shivaji. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Kṛṣṇa has already an intimate relationship with all living beings, because he's feeding them. Nityo nityānām cetanaś cetanānām eko bahūnām yo vidadhāti kāmān—He feeds everybody, and there's not one person you can find anywhere that doesn't have food available to him or her, because Krishna is all-powerful, and he's feeding every living being. But he wants more than that; not just this "supply and demand" because I'm hungry. He wants love, and he wants to extract the love that's dormant within the heart of every living being. Therefore, he sets up this elaborate ruse that he performs to demote Indra. That's just another reason that he performs the pastime. Indra became proud, and that's the death knell to bhakti. Pride comes in various forms, and one of them is entitlement. In fact, Yamunā Devī, one of the famous disciples of Śrīla Prabhupāda, preached heavily in her final days that we should beware of entitlement. That is, I think, because of my stature (whatever I may think that is), there are various ways we can get it into our head that we deserve more than others. Of course, there's etiquette, and we observe that; we're not communists. But if I have in my head that I deserve something, then it's very hard for me to appreciate anything. And this entitlement that pollutes the mind and consciousness had gotten into the mind and consciousness of Indra, and he thought, "I deserve that offering of the cowherd men." And if you've ever thought you deserve something and then you didn't get it, doesn't it cause anguish? ------------------------------------------------------------ To connect with His Grace Vaiśeṣika Dāsa, please visit https://www.fanthespark.com/next-steps/ask-vaisesika-dasa/ ------------------------------------------------------------ Add to your wisdom literature collection: https://iskconsv.com/book-store/ https://www.bbtacademic.com/books/ https://thefourquestionsbook.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------ Join us live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FanTheSpark/ Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-bhakti/id1132423868 For the latest videos, subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@FanTheSpark For the latest in SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/fan-the-spark ------------------------------------------------------------ #govardhanpuja #spiritualawakening #soul #spiritualexperience #spiritualpurposeoflife #spiritualgrowthlessons #secretsofspirituality #vaisesikaprabhu #vaisesikadasa #vaisesikaprabhulectures #spirituality #bhaktiyoga #krishna #spiritualpurposeoflife #krishnaspirituality #spiritualusachannel #whybhaktiisimportant #whyspiritualityisimportant #vaisesika #spiritualconnection #thepowerofspiritualstudy #selfrealization #spirituallectures #spiritualstudy #spiritualquestions #spiritualquestionsanswered #trendingspiritualtopics #fanthespark #spiritualpowerofmeditation #spiritualteachersonyoutube #spiritualhabits #spiritualclarity #bhagavadgita #srimadbhagavatam #spiritualbeings #kttvg #keepthetranscendentalvibrationgoing #spiritualpurpose

Bhakti moves like a river between union and separation, carrying the devotee through remembrance, longing, and love. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore spiritual experience as it naturally unfolds in devotional life—through divine arrangements, moments of ecstasy, and the quiet ways sacred places awaken the heart. As the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam describes Vṛndāvana, Kṛṣṇa's footprints are said to make the land auspicious, showing how even a trace can hold both presence and absence at once. Here, Vedānta appears in its most beautiful and poetic expression, where bees, breezes, forests, and dust don't explain truth so much as embody it—and Vṛndāvana becomes something the devotee learns to carry wherever they go. ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

  In this episode, Swamiji shares the inspiring story of Joni Eareckson Tada, who became a quadriplegic at 17 after a diving accident. Her journey from anger, depression, and suicidal thoughts to becoming an acclaimed author, artist, and founder of a global disability ministry illustrates the power of resilience. Joni explains that her secret lies in disciplining herself to give thanks in all circumstances — gratitude became her reflex reaction.  Swamiji connects this attitude to Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita (5.1), where He teaches Arjun that yogis renounce attachment and perform actions with body, senses, mind, and intellect solely for purification. True success, Swamiji explains, is measured not by external achievements but by inner purification. Elevated yogis welcome adversity as opportunities to cleanse the heart, remaining equanimous in success and failure, fame and infamy, comfort and discomfort.  This teaching matters because it reframes setbacks as divine gifts for growth. By cultivating gratitude and focusing on purification, seekers can rise stronger from adversity, awaken their inner power, and progress steadily toward liberation.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades.   

  In this third episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda explains that the true devotee does not lament over losses, crave for gains, or become disturbed by worldly fluctuations. Bhakti steadies the heart, making it free from sorrow and restlessness.  Swamiji highlights that when devotion becomes the very heartbeat of life, the soul rises above material attachments. He draws from Narad's teachings to show that lamentation and craving are symptoms of identifying with the temporary world, while bhakti connects us to the eternal joy of Shree Krishna.  For seekers, this episode is a reminder that devotion is the cure for inner turmoil. By cultivating bhakti, one transcends grief and desire, experiencing peace, stability, and liberation through Krishna's grace.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

  In this fifth episode of the Narad Bhakti Sutra series, Swami Mukundananda explains that no worldly power, wealth, or relationship can provide lasting security. Only God, through His grace, can truly protect us from life's uncertainties. Swamiji emphasizes that surrendering to Shree Krishna with faith and devotion removes fear of the future and anchors the soul in divine assurance.  He narrates how saints and devotees, despite facing challenges, remained fearless because of their unwavering bhakti. When devotion becomes the heart of life, one realizes that God alone is the eternal protector. This truth liberates the devotee from anxiety, lamentation, and craving, filling life with peace and confidence.  For seekers, this episode is a reminder that bhakti is not just worship but trust — the conviction that Krishna's shelter is the only true refuge. By cultivating devotion and surrender, one experiences divine protection, inner strength, and ultimate liberation.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best‑selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades. 

In this episode, Swamiji continues his discourse on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 9, Part 2, reflecting on how the laws of nature themselves point to the existence of a Divine lawmaker. He explains that while science discovers and applies these laws, it cannot account for their origin. The very presence of order in creation implies a Creator who designed it.  Swamiji illustrates this truth with striking examples:  Fish live their entire lives in water without drowning, while humans can drown in a pool—God has designed them differently.  Birds fly effortlessly because their bones are hollow, a design that even modern aviation studies to replicate.  Flamingos migrate instinctively to Siberia, a land they have never seen, guided by divine programming.  He emphasizes that if there are laws, there must be a law maker, and that law maker is God. The glory of God is so vast that saints and poets have admitted defeat in trying to describe it. Swamiji cites Homer's insight that even thousands of musicians playing for thousands of years could not complete the narration of God's glories. Similarly, Vedic literature describes Anant Shesh, the thousand-hooded serpent, endlessly singing God's praises since the beginning of creation, yet never reaching completion.  Quoting Vyasadev, Swamiji explains that anyone who thinks they can count God's virtues has a childish intellect—just as a child imagines the mountain or ocean to be “this big.” The infinite glories of God cannot be measured. Even St. Augustine realized this when a child told him it was impossible to fit the ocean into a hole, just as it was impossible to capture God's glories in a book.  This episode inspires listeners to recognize God's infinite greatness, trust in His plan, and surrender with faith and devotion. The narration closes with the reminder that God's glory is boundless, and His love for us is eternal.  About Swami Mukundananda: Swami Mukundananda is a renowned spiritual leader, Vedic scholar, Bhakti saint, best-selling author, and an international authority on the subject of mind management. He is the founder of the unique yogic system called JKYog. Swamiji holds distinguished degrees in Engineering and Management from two of India's most prestigious institutions—IIT and IIM. Having taken the renounced order of life (sanyas), he is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, and has been sharing Vedic wisdom across the globe for decades.  

In this special December treat, featuring kirtan from Jai Uttal, Ram Dass speaks about opening to change and merging with the Beloved.The Ram Dass community gathers regularly to engage in meaningful discussions about the podcast. We invite you to join us and share your curiosities, insights, and wisdom. Sign up for the General Fellowship to receive event invitations directly in your inbox.This episode of Here and Now comes from an event at Spirit Rock Meditation Center on July 31, 2000. Ram Dass begins by exploring how Shiva is the aspect of God that rules over change. He talks about changing our self-concept from identification with our egos to identification with our souls. Devotional chanting, or kirtan, is one way to work on transforming ourselves. Speaking about merging with the Beloved, Ram Dass shares how his relationship with his guru evolved after Neem Karoli Baba left his body. He talks about the place of joy that exists inside all of us. That's the yum-yum place.Jai Uttal takes over and leads a rousing kirtan to connect us all to that yum-yum place. He begins by explaining the chant: “Sita Ram, Sita Ram, Sita Ram, Jai Sita Ram. Sita, the infinite Goddess. Ram, the infinite God. Jai or Jaya, praise or victory.”About Jai Uttal:Jai Uttal is a Grammy-nominated sacred music composer, recording artist, multi-instrumentalist, and ecstatic vocalist. Having traveled extensively in India, he met many great saints and singers, and Bhakti Yoga became his personal path. Jai has been leading, teaching, and performing kirtan around the world for nearly 50 years. He creates a safe environment for people to open their hearts and voices. Kirtan Camp with Jai Uttal starts on January 25, 2026. Nurture the seeds of love and take a journey into the healing power of sound. Sign up now.About Ram Dass:Ram Dass's spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying millions along on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him. Learn more at ramdass.org.“You know those cherries, chocolate-covered cherries? They're like hard on the outside, but they're soft and yum, yum, yum inside. We are just chocolate-covered cherries. That's all we are. And that yum, yum, yum, yum, that's the joy, that's the bhakti. Yum, yum, yum, yum. Because we meet each other in the yum-yum place.” – Ram DassSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these Steps, we tried to carry this message to those seeking recovery, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. 

Einstein called it an "optical delusion of consciousness." The yogis call it forgetfulness of the Self. In this episode, the illusion of separateness gets dismantled—from modern physics to the sacred Bhakti texts—revealing how the love of enlightened people doesn't shrink to "me and mine," but expands to everyone. Traveling from Japan to the banks of the Gaṅgā in Rishikesh, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack radical teachings on love and life. Listen to explore the idea of expanding the sense of self as the key to freedom from fear, loneliness, and the prison of "me and mine." ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Speaking to a room full of Buddhists and psychotherapists, Ram Dass explores the impact that Eastern traditions have had on his life and his extraordinary adventure of coming home to being human. Ram Dass Here & Now is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/ramdass and get on your way to being your best self.The Ram Dass community gathers regularly to engage in meaningful discussions about the podcast. We invite you to join us and share your curiosities, insights, and wisdom. Sign up for the General Fellowship to receive event invitations directly in your inbox.This episode of Here and Now comes from the keynote address Ram Dass gave at the 2nd Annual Buddhism & Psychotherapy Conference in 1987, which was sponsored by the Karma Kagyu Institute. Ram Dass begins by outlining his connection with the Kagyu lineage of Buddhism, sharing stories of his time with Trungpa Rinpoche. He then gives a brief recap of his journey in life and how he was eventually drawn towards Eastern writings and teachings.Ram Dass talks about embracing Buddhist practices and his spiral path of bouncing back and forth between being in retreat and being in the marketplace of life. He explores how his work with dying people helped him embrace the extraordinary adventure of coming home to being human.Sharing a story about Kalu Rinpoche, another friend in the Kagyu line, Ram Dass discusses honoring compassion and the different levels at which we can do service in the world. He wraps things up by saying, “I cannot conceivably repay the debt that I feel to the Eastern traditions for having introduced me to myself.”About Ram Dass:Ram Dass's spirit has been a guiding light for generations, carrying millions along on the journey. Ram Dass teaches that through the Bhakti practice of unconditional love, we can all connect with our true nature. Through these teachings, Ram Dass has shared a little piece of his guru, Maharaj-ji, with all who have listened to him. Learn more at ramdass.org.“And I see that as an extraordinary adventure of coming home to being human. It's interesting that more of the letters I've gotten in the past year have said to me, ‘Thank you for being human.' Isn't that bizarre? I mean, I've spent 25 years trying to be divine, and people write and thank me for being human. I mean, that just seems like a bizarre paradox to me.” – Ram DassSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.