Podcasts about Swamiji

Send us Fan MailRegister your free place for the live online meditation and Q&A with Babaji: https://www.shivarudrabalayogi.org/online-satsang Babaji's Life with Shri Swamiji | In Quest of Truth - Babaji Q&A, No. 276Recorded on 23 May 2026 with worldwide participants0:00 Intro0:28 Babaji's first personal meeting with Swamiji7:37 How Babaji got to the Dehradun Ashram from the station8:22 How did Babaji feel arriving at the Ashram in the middle of the night not knowing anyone?12:49 Did Swamiji give Babaji any instruction on what to do at the Ashram?14:14 What routine did Babaji follow at the Ashram when He was by Himself?16:44 When Swamiji was at the Ashram, how was the routine different?29:23 Swamiji asking Babaji to look after a mentally challenged boy within a few years of joining the Ashram.37:43 Swamiji showed a great deal of affection to Babaji but His guidance could often be very strict.44:49 It might look to an outside observer that the situation was unreasonable and uncontrolled but it was like a surgical procedure that was being performed.48:20 Why is Mount Kailash a sacred mountain?49:33 What is the Soul?51:38 Why does the mind fall silent when in the presence of a Master?53:38 What sort of relationship should we have with our body?55:40 What is the importance of Brahmacharya in the practice of meditation?57:25 Did Babaji ever speak to Swamiji's mother Parvathamma?  What was she like?59:35 Some pointers in progressing further in meditation.1:00:51 Being a musician, a melody stays in the mind during meditation.  How to overcome this?___Website: http://www.srby.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/shivarudrabalayogiTwitter: https://twitter.com/SRBYmissionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivarudrabalayogi/Register your free place for the live online meditation and Q&A with Babaji: https://www.shivarudrabalayogi.org/en/online-satsang Website: http://www.srby.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/shivarudrabalayogiTwitter: https://twitter.com/SRBYmissionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivarudrabalayogi/

We gave this talk on Swami Vivekananda's birthday in January of 2026. Today, in 1902, Swamiji kicked his mortal body with great triumph. So I felt it was fitting to post this now, given that it is perhaps one of my most experimental and radical talks! May this be an offering to Swamiji and to this manifest universe, to all animate and inanimate beings, to the sum total of all souls, the one God Swamiji taught us to worship! May we live up to his ideal. Jai Mā! Jai Guru! Jai Swamiji! Hit Me Up xSupport the showLectures happen live every Monday at 7pm PST and again at Friday 11am PST Use this link and I will see you there:https://www.zoom.us/j/7028380815For more videos, guided meditations and instruction and for access to our lecture library, visit me at:https://www.patreon.com/yogawithnishTo get in on the discussion and access various spiritual materials, join our Discord here: https://discord.gg/U8zKP8yMrM

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Swami Atma Muktananda Saraswati, the long-time resident teacher and manager of Rocklyn Ashram, where we'll be gathering for my upcoming October Returning Retreat.Swamiji has spent more than 40 years living, teaching, and serving at the ashram, and in this conversation we explore the traditional Satyananda Yoga system, the role of Yoga Nidra in creating deep relaxation, the history of the ashram, and what life in an ashram is actually like. We also talk about community, practice, and why stepping away from the pace of everyday life can create space for something quite profound to happen.After spending time out at the ashram recently, I've become even more excited for our retreat. There's something very special about the place — the warmth of the people, the beautiful bush setting, the simplicity of the rhythm, and the feeling that you can put down all of the usual “doing” for a while and simply arrive as a student and practitioner. If you've been craving more depth in your practice, more spaciousness, or simply a few days away from holding everything together, I genuinely think this experience is going to be incredibly special.A quick reminder too: the super early bird pricing for the retreat ends this Sunday, so if you've been considering joining us, now is a really lovely time to book in.Enjoy the conversation.Check out all the Returning Retreat details here: https://www.amymcdonald.com.au/returningSupport the show on Patreon. Here is the link: https://www.patreon.com/AmyMcDonald

By the time you read this, dear friend, we will already be well into the Centennial Celebration week at Ananda Village. The week preceding the event has been its own inspiration, with volunteers coming from all over the world to help prepare for the arrival of the guests. I've been mentally sharing with Swamiji all the remarkable things we've been witnessing, and I thought I'd write him a letter with these reflections...

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great philosopher, mystic, and spiritual teacher, George Ivanovich Gurdjieff.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 20th of June, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

How did Swamiji radiate this magical quality of divine friendship, and how can we follow in his footsteps?

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Baba Muktananda.  The podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 13th of June, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

Swamiji's guiding love didn't end with his passing — it remains available to anyone who reaches for it inwardly.

Swamiji's guiding love didn't end with his passing — it remains available to anyone who reaches for it inwardly.

In this Satsang, Swamiji continues sharing from the teachings of the great sage Nisargadatta Maharaj.  The podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 6th of June, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Nisargadatta Maharaj.  The podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 30th of May, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Ramana Maharshi.  The podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 23rd of May, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this special Satsang, honouring Baba Muktananda's birthday, Swamiji shares from the teachings of this great sage.  The podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 16th of May, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

Some meditations and spiritual practices for becoming more spiritually connected. We are creating a spiritual symphony of the soul, harmonics of energy, joy and love.  To watch Swamiji's movies or take the Self Realization Course click  

Paramhansa Yogananda said that a yogi should be able to stand unshaken amidst the crash of breaking worlds. In celebrating the centennial of Swami Kriyananda's birth, I want to share a few episodes from his life that illustrate exactly this quality. During Ananda's first years, Swamiji's classes were Ananda's primary source of income, funding the purchase of property and the construction of its first buildings. He taught classes every weeknight throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, and led programs at the Meditation (now Seclusion) Retreat on weekends. Few people could sustain such a schedule, but so determined was he to serve his guru that he found the strength to continue for several years.

Paramhansa Yogananda said that a yogi should be able to stand unshaken amidst the crash of breaking worlds. In celebrating the centennial of Swami Kriyananda's birth, I want to share a few episodes from his life that illustrate exactly this quality. During Ananda's first years, Swamiji's classes were Ananda's primary source of income, funding the purchase of property and the construction of its first buildings. He taught classes every weeknight throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, and led programs at the Meditation (now Seclusion) Retreat on weekends. Few people could sustain such a schedule, but so determined was he to serve his guru that he found the strength to continue for several years.

“Sadhana is my life, basically. Whether it's studying or not studying or meditating or not meditating, but the intent is to maintain a sense of that Highest Awareness at all times.”Discover the profound journey and wisdom of friend and life-time meditator Ravi. Ravi is a 70 year old yogi who has dedicated 50 years to living and embodying the Highest Awareness under the guidance (and Grace) of his teacher, his guide, his ideal, his guru, Swami Shyam. In this episode, Ravi shares timeless insights on meditation, the nature of the Knower, and how sadhana transforms everyday life. In this path of self-realization and living that highest awareness, it's conversations like these that keep me going. .Here's some key takeaways:Ravi's early spiritual questioning, venturing to northern India in the 70's to meet his Guru Swami Shyam The importance of sadhana as a life-long, all-encompassing practice (50 years in!)A deeper understanding of the Highest Awareness and the role of meditationPractical insights on attending to the space between thoughts and the power of the Knower in meditationHow to navigate doubts, ego, and illusion on the spiritual pathThe legacy of Swamiji and the simplicity of true liberationAdvice to younger seekers and the importance of trust and dedicationVisit Swami Shyams Library of english books and scriptures HEREI really loved this satsang discussion, it gave me so much inspiration! It's such a trip to hear stories of Western seekers making the trek to India in the 70's. I feel in my soul I'm from that era. But these conversations strike me as important for us to adapt our sadhana and the timeless Knowledge for today's world and keep our attention, always, on the highest. Remember, the journey is lifelong and continuous. Every moment offers an opportunity to recognize the Knower within. And, in Ravi's words “The rest as they say is history—a far more enlightening one than I ever studied at University—the history of the Eternal Reality, Me!”In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 

As I write this, it is the one-hundredth anniversary of Swamiji's birth. People from around the world of Ananda are sharing stories and photos and expressing their gratitude to him. Devi and I shared many birthdays with Swamiji. One of my most memorable birthdays was in 1985.

As I write this, it is the one-hundredth anniversary of Swamiji's birth. People from around the world of Ananda are sharing stories and photos and expressing their gratitude to him. Devi and I shared many birthdays with Swamiji. One of my most memorable birthdays was in 1985.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Baba Muktananda.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 9th of May, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

I'd like to share three stories in which Swamiji gave me simple advice that changed the course of my life.

I'd like to share three stories in which Swamiji gave me simple advice that changed the course of my life.

Season 5 of A Curious Yogi is here.I'm so happy to begin this season with a solo episode exploring an essential teaching from my teacher, Swamiji, who encouraged everyone to learn and memorize these seven verses from the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, verses 19–25). He described them as containing the essence of the entire scripture.In this episode, I share some of Swamiji's reflections and commentary, attempt to sing the Sanskrit verses myself (eek), and explore ways we can read, contemplate, and meditate on this timeless text as modern seekers.Some key themes from the conversation:The Gita is not simply a literal story about war or battle, but an exploration of the inner conflict between the individual self and the wisdom of the Higher Self.Gita means “song” — these teachings were meant to be sung, recited, and absorbed deeply.The teachings point us toward deathlessness: the reminder that we are not merely the body or identity we take ourselves to be.Perspective matters deeply — reading the Gita through Krishna's consciousness offers something very different from reading solely through Arjuna's confusion.If this episode gives you even a small glimpse into the depth and beauty of the Gita, I'd love for you to join me this June for an 18-week reading, study, and meditation group: 18 chapters in 18 weeks.All sessions will be recorded, so there's no pressure to attend live every time. And Patreon members receive 50% off the full offering.More than anything, I'm excited to explore this mystical and practical scripture intentionally with the curious yogi sangha.In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 

In this episode Swamiji explains Verse 8 of Chapter 13 of the Bhagavad Gita. The verse presents a staggering definition of what constitutes true knowledge. It is not erudition or scholarship but a life demonstrating qualities such as humility, unpretentiousness, harmless and forgiveness.

Swamiji was always expressing joy in one way or another. It effervesced from his very being like a spring bubbling up from the depths of the earth. Here are a few ways I saw that fundamental essence expressed.

Swamiji was always expressing joy in one way or another. It effervesced from his very being like a spring bubbling up from the depths of the earth. Here are a few ways I saw that fundamental essence expressed.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Baba Muktananda.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 18th of April, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this Satsang, Swamiji answers questions from devotees posed during a recent Shaktipat Intensive. This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 25th of April, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of Epictetus before continuing a question and answer session.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 2nd of May, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

The days to experience this all knowing Divine Love did not end with Swamiji's passing. His presence is always within reach for those who sincerely call on him, for he was a channel for Master's all-encompassing, eternal love. Each of us is a little sparrow in God's sight—this is His greatest gift to all his children.

The days to experience this all knowing Divine Love did not end with Swamiji's passing. His presence is always within reach for those who sincerely call on him, for he was a channel for Master's all-encompassing, eternal love. Each of us is a little sparrow in God's sight—this is His greatest gift to all his children.

What were they like? Stories from my time with Swamiji...

What were they like? Stories from my time with Swamiji...

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great sage Bhagavan Nityananda.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 11th of April, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this Satsang, Swamiji shares from the teachings of the great Zen Master Suzuki Roshi.  This podcast was recorded live at The Ashram in Mount Eliza on the 4th of April, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

In this special city Satsang, Swamiji discusses the question, 'What is spirituality?' before leading a self-inquiry meditation. This podcast was recorded live at the Glen Eira Town Hall in Melbourne on the 28th of March, 2026. Watch the full Satsang program with Swamiji and Devi Ma at The Ashram with a weekly subscription to The Ashram Online! This subscription will give you access to a library of over 100 hours of Swamiji's talks, meditation and chanting programs, hatha yoga classes and more. Click here to learn more.

Swamiji reveals what God truly calls success, contrasting worldly measures of achievement with the divine measure of greatness. In today's world, success is often equated with applause, wealth, titles, and recognition. Yet Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita teaches that true success lies in humility, selfless service, and inner transformation.  Through a powerful story, Swamiji illustrates how hidden greatness shines silently in God's eyes. Those who serve without seeking credit, who remain humble even in accomplishment, and who purify their hearts through devotion embody the real sign of success.  Swamiji emphasizes that spiritual growth begins not when the world notices us, but when our inner vision changes. God does not measure progress by external recognition but by the sincerity of our bhakti and the virtues cultivated within. Humility, he explains, is the fertile soil in which all spiritual qualities grow.  This teaching inspires seekers to reflect deeply: Am I truly growing spiritually? Does God see my efforts? What really matters in the end? The answer is clear — success is not what the world celebrates, but what God silently honors.  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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda   

Through a thought-provoking story, he explains how we often ignore the signs of time passing—aging, weakening of the body, and life's changes—while postponing our spiritual journey, thinking “I'll start tomorrow.”  Swamiji highlights that everything we accumulate—wealth, status, and possessions—will eventually be left behind. What truly matters is the inner wealth of devotion, knowledge, and love for God.  He emphasizes that human life is rare and precious, meant for spiritual growth, not just sense enjoyment. Every moment that passes without remembering God is a lost opportunity.  This episode is a wake-up call to stop delaying and start prioritizing your true goal—spiritual awakening and divine connection.  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. 

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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda   

In this episode, Swamiji explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 17, where Shree Krishna declares that the wise devotee—who loves Him selflessly—is the most dear to Him.  Swamiji highlights a powerful truth: while many approach God asking for relief, success, or material gains, the highest devotion is to seek God Himself. If we have a relationship with God, why ask for temporary things instead of the ultimate gift—His divine love?  He explains that our lives are governed by the law of karma, and even God responds based on the depth of our connection with Him. True devotion is not about bargaining, but about surrender and love.  Through insightful examples, Swamiji shows that our desires are often limited, like choosing small pleasures over something infinitely valuable. Instead, we should pray for devotion, wisdom, and freedom from endless desires.  This episode inspires us to shift from asking God for things… to asking for God Himself.  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 explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 19, where Shree Krishna reveals that after many lifetimes of spiritual practice, the truly knowledgeable soul ultimately surrenders to Him, realizing that God is everything.  Swamiji addresses a common misconception—that devotion is for the less intelligent. He explains that true knowledge naturally leads to devotion, and the highest wisdom culminates in surrender to God.  Through simple yet powerful examples, he shows how knowledge deepens love, and why without true understanding, devotion may remain incomplete. He also contrasts the paths of knowledge and bhakti—highlighting that while the path of knowledge relies on self-effort and can lead to pride, the path of devotion is supported by humility and divine grace.  When we surrender with faith and humility, God's protection and guidance naturally follow.  This episode helps us understand that the highest knowledge is not separation from God, but loving surrender to Him.  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 explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 16, where Shree Krishna describes four kinds of devotees: the distressed, the seekers of knowledge, the seekers of material gains, and the wise.  He explains how most people begin their spiritual journey by turning to God in times of pain or need. Some approach out of curiosity to understand life's deeper truths, while others seek worldly success and fulfillment. Yet, the highest among them are those who love God selflessly, simply because they recognize their eternal relationship with Him.  Swamiji beautifully highlights that all these paths are valid, but true spiritual growth lies in evolving from seeking something from God to seeking God Himself.  This episode encourages deep introspection—why do we remember God, and how can we grow towards unconditional devotion?  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 continues explaining Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 18, revealing the depth of true, selfless devotion.  He describes the highest state of love, where a devotee says, “O Lord, You are mine, I am Yours—no matter how You treat me.” Whether God shows affection, remains distant, or even appears harsh, the devotee's love does not decrease—it only keeps growing.  Swamiji explains that this is the real test of pure love. Unlike worldly love, which fades with changing circumstances, divine love remains steady even in adversity. It is not based on what we receive, but on complete surrender and belonging.  He also reveals a powerful secret: when we stop asking and start surrendering, God gives everything—even Himself. True devotion lies in giving, trusting, and accepting whatever comes as His grace.  This episode inspires us to rise beyond conditional devotion and embrace a love so deep that nothing can break it—a love where the soul firmly declares, “You are mine, forever.”  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 explains Bhagavad Gita Chapter 7, Verse 18, where Shree Krishna reveals that all devotees are noble, but the one who loves Him selflessly is most dear to Him.  Swamiji highlights a powerful truth about love—what we often call love in the world is usually driven by self-interest, expectations, or personal happiness. True love, however, is selfless; it only seeks to give, not to take.  He explains why worldly relationships often fluctuate, while divine love remains constant and pure. When we begin to practice selfless love towards God—without expecting anything in return—our devotion transforms into something deeper and more meaningful.  Such love has immense power. It can bind God Himself, making Him respond to the devotee with complete grace and closeness.  This episode invites you to reflect on your own understanding of love and take a step towards unconditional devotion—where love is no longer about receiving, but about offering.  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. 

Discourse by Revered Dr. Swami Bhajanananda Saraswati given on 28 March 2026 at Kali Mandir Ramakrishna Ashram. Swamiji continues his series on the Principles of Bhakti Yoga, reading from the teachings of Narada Muni from the Srimad Bhagavatam, Skanda 51, Discourse 5 (translation by Swami Bhajanananda):   1.5.8 śrī-nārada uvāca bhavatānudita-prāyaḿ yaśo bhagavato 'malam yenaivāsau na tuṣyeta. manye tad darśanaḿ khilam Sri Narada said: "You have not praised the stainless glories of Bhagavan. This does not satisfy Him. I think such philosophy incomplete."   1.5.9 yathā dharmādayaś cārthā. muni-varyānukīrtitāḥ na tathā vāsudevasya mahimā hy anuvarṇitaḥ "You have repeatedly described dharma and the rest (dharma, kama, artha, moksha) as the goals, but although a great sage, have not described the glories of Vāsudeva."   1.5.10 na yad vacaś citra-padaḿ harer yaśo. jagat-pavitraḿ pragṛṇīta karhicit tad vāyasaḿ tīrtham uśanti mānasā. na yatra haḿsā niramanty uśik-kṣayāḥ "Words, however beautiful, that do not describe the glories of Hari, which purify the world, are places of pilgrimage to crows, and not to swans who take pleasure in transcendental bliss."   1.5.11 tad-vāg-visargo janatāgha-viplavo yasmin prati-ślokam abaddhavaty api nāmāny anantasya yaśo 'ńkitāni yat śṛṇvanti gāyanti gṛṇanti sādhavaḥ "But those words, however badly composed each verses is, that describe the names etc (name, form, abode, qualities, activities) of the Infinite, destroy the sins of all people. Such words are heard, sung, and accepted by sadhus."

Swamiji reveals how God truly measures spiritual progress, drawing from Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita. Growth is not about accumulating knowledge or external achievements, but about inner transformation — the purification of the heart, humility in conduct, and alignment of our actions with divine principles.  Through a powerful story, Swamiji illustrates that while the world often measures success by recognition, possessions, or intellectual mastery, God looks at what we have become. Even a single teaching of the Gita, when lived sincerely, can elevate the soul far more than volumes of knowledge left unpracticed.  Krishna's guidance reminds seekers that true progress is seen in the refinement of character — patience, compassion, detachment, and unwavering devotion. Knowledge without transformation is empty, but wisdom applied in daily life becomes the measure of real growth.  This teaching inspires us to stop comparing ourselves by worldly standards and instead ask: Has my heart become purer? Have my actions reflected Krishna's teachings? In this way, God's measure of growth is not external success but the depth of our bhakti and the sincerity of our transformation.  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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda   

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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda 

In this episode, Swamiji addresses the subtle but destructive emotion of envy. He begins by explaining how envy arises when we compare ourselves to others, feeling diminished by their success or possessions. This comparison robs us of peace and blinds us to our own blessings.  Drawing from Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita, Swamiji emphasizes that envy is rooted in ignorance of our true spiritual identity. The soul is eternal and complete, and its worth is not defined by worldly measures. Krishna teaches that when we focus on self‑purification and devotion, envy dissolves naturally.  Swamiji illustrates with practical examples: how gratitude shifts our attention from what we lack to what we have, how humility allows us to celebrate others' success, and how surrendering to God frees us from the restless urge to compete. He explains that envy is conquered not by suppressing it but by elevating the mind to higher truths.  This teaching matters because it transforms relationships and inner life. By overcoming envy, seekers cultivate contentment, harmony, and joy. Krishna's path leads us to recognize that true fulfillment lies not in comparison but in connection with the Divine.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda   

In this episode, Swamiji narrates a powerful story of five monks sent by their guru to preach in a distant land. Along the way, each monk is tempted by different distractions — wealth, comfort, relationships, recognition — until only one reaches the destination. The guru had foreseen this, teaching that the greatest obstacles are not external forces but inner weaknesses and unguarded desires.  Swamiji explains that, like the monks, many of us begin noble initiatives with enthusiasm but falter when temptations disguised as opportunities arise. These distractions do not announce themselves as dangers; they appear as security, comfort, or ego‑boosting recognition. Yet they quietly derail us from our higher purpose.  Drawing from Krishna's wisdom in the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 2, Verse 64), Swamiji highlights how the mind becomes weak when absorbed in material pleasures, and how it can be strengthened by envisioning bliss in God. He emphasizes that divine attachment purifies the heart, while material absorption degrades it.  This teaching matters because it reminds seekers that true bravery lies not in starting the journey but in staying on course. By anchoring the mind in Krishna, we can resist subtle distractions, remain steadfast in our goals, and 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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda   

Swamiji shares Krishna's wisdom on how to face life's most painful moments—times when suffering, fear, and anger can overwhelm the heart. Through the powerful real-life story of Immaculée Ilibagiza, a survivor of the Rwandan Genocide, he illustrates how faith and forgiveness can transform even the deepest wounds.  Drawing from the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, Swamiji explains that holding onto hatred binds the heart in suffering, while forgiveness frees the soul. True strength lies not in revenge, but in choosing compassion, devotion, and inner peace.  This inspiring message reminds us that even when life breaks us, turning to God and embracing forgiveness can transform pain into spiritual strength and healing.  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.  Link to the playlist: Bhagavad Gita for everyday living By Swami Mukundananda