In this episode , Swami takes a closer look at the recent Ramayana film adaptation, exploring it through the lenses of cinema, storytelling and Hindu philosophy. He discusses some of the film's creative choices and departures from Valmiki's Ramayana, including its portrayal of Ravana, the theological ideas surrounding Vishnu's nature, and its treatment of key characters and events. 

Bringing an epic as vast as the Ramayana to the big screen is an enormous undertaking, and Swami offers an honest critique while ultimately praising the movie that is bringing these extraordinary stories to new audiences and new generations.

In this episode, Swami tackles a rising issue in the West, namely, that of a sharp increase in vitriol and hate directed at Hindus and Indians on social media and the real-world consequences it is beginning to lead to.

When the Hindu community is attacked, the immediate human instinct is to retaliate and protect ourselves. The issue is that if this is not done in an intelligent and considered manner, the situation can, and often does, become aggravated. Swami takes the time to look at examples from the Mahābhārata and beyond, highlighting the subtlety of dh...

In this special episode recorded in Toronto, Swamiji speaks with Pandit Mayuran about his political career in the UK and the wider issues affecting the Western world at present. Although a contentious topic, Hinduism has never shied away from open dialogue and exploration in order to better understand the nature of dharma and our role in its development. What follows is a discussion on the Mahabharata, nuance, pragmatism vs idealism, the balance between compassion and conservation, material identifications and much more!

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In this video Swami reflects on a conversation he had with a friend during this summer's Just Love Festival. The conversation centered around our inability to stand by our choices in life, with genuine acceptance and contentment. People that should be speaking of love, gratitude and the celebration of life, so often fall into the trap of complaining and victimhood to earn the pity and compassion of others, while hiding from their own responsibility and agency. Swami offers important perspectives and advice for how to tackle the issue!

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In this special lecture delivered during the 2026 Gurupurnima celebrations at Shree Peetha Nilaya, Swami speaks about the 5 different stages a spiritual seeker will progress through in their relationship with their Satguru. Drawing parallels between the role of the teacher and life itself, Swami explains how to best navigate and understand each stage, giving concrete examples and insights into how to ultimately take their relationship with their guru and with themselves to the next level!

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In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explores the struggle between immediate gratification (Preyas) and truly doing what is good and beneficial in our lives (Śreyas). From birth, society conditions us to seek pleasure at every moment. However, this relentless pursuit of convenience, prestige, and pleasure often comes at a severe cost to our personal growth, inner peace, and true Divine connection.
Drawing from the Katha Upanishad, Søren Kierkegaard and St. Augustine, Swami unpacks how we can change our ways, moving from pleasure-seeking to dharmic living and eventually pure love.

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People often ask Swami a very specific question: "What kind of God do you believe in?" But in truth, they aren't just asking for a name. They are asking about the fundamental nature of the "type" of God he believes in.

Today, modern seekers are often forced into a frustrating dilemma. As the famed historian Yuval Noah Harari points out, society seems to present us with only two options: the "Mystery God" (a vague, unknowable cosmic energy that asks nothing of us) or the "Lawgiver God" (a petty cosmic dictator obsessed with micromanaging our daily lives...

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Sarvamohini Dasi (Kristina Margolin) to discuss the role of numerology and astrology in understanding our nature and purpose.

In this personal discussion, Sarvamohini Dasi opens up about her realization that while these ancient sciences can explain the patterns of our lives, they cannot fully satisfy the heart's ultimate desire for divine love. We discuss what it means to honor these tools that help us navigate this world, while ultimately giving our hearts to the spiritual practice that takes us beyond it—a graduation that led her to the shelter of...

How can we reconcile the miracles of different, seemingly contradictory religions? If they all claim to be the only truth, who is lying? For the atheist, if every religion claims exclusive miracles that contradict each other, the most logical conclusion is that they are all making it up. The typical religious response, claiming our miracles are from God and theirs are from the devil (or just fake), is intellectually unsatisfying and only fuels tribalism.

In this episode Swami Revatikaanta challenges these positions through the Hindu lens by asking the questions, “What if God is truly universal? What if...

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Ananta Das (Franco Erazo) to explore the world of psychedelics and earth medicine in the spiritual world.

Following a successful corporate career, Ananta Das immersed himself in the world of shamanic earth medicines—specifically Kambo and Bufo (5-MeO-DMT). In this mature conversation, Ananta Das shares his gratitude for these sacred tools, highlighting how they served as powerful catalysts to wake him up and point him toward the Divine.

Together they explore how a deep respect for shamanic traditions led Ananta Dad to step beyond them—meeting Paramahamsa Vish...

Why is it that despite doing all the "right" spiritual work — the meditation, the yoga, the reading, the workshops — we still feel empty and frustrated?

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explores the trap of "Spiritual Consumerism." For many of us, especially in an impatient results-oriented world, we’ve been conditioned to think of the Divine as a vending machine: if we put in the time, the effort, or the money, we expect an immediate "hit" of peace and love in return. It is this misunderstanding of the nature of spirituality and God that keeps us chasing the elusiv...

Why is it that for so many people, the "smarter" they are, the harder it is to have a relationship with God?

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explore the internal friction between two archetypes we all carry: The Rationalist and The Poet. The Rationalist demands facts, logic, and efficiency. But the Poet doesn't allow those things to limit what the heart feels. 

Drawing on the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the Western philosophy, Swami discusses why you don’t have to abandon your intellect to become a devotee. Instead, we explore how to marry the...

Bhakti Yoga Changed My Life

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Bhagawati Dasi, a yoga teacher and Bhakti practitioner, to explore how yoga can return to its authentic roots beyond trends and business. Together, they discuss the commercialization of yoga in the West, the loss of depth in modern practice, and how Bhakti Yoga offers a path back to sincerity and spiritual connection.

Bhagawati Dasi shares her experience teaching yoga in New York City, reflecting on how inner transformation and devotion can be integrated into daily life. The conversation touches on...

What if someone in your family started doing things no one could explain?

In this episode, we hear the personal account of someone who grew up with Paramahamsa Vishwananda — not as a distant guru, but as a close friend. From sacred ash (vibhuti) appearing on photos to spontaneous spiritual visions, these aren’t stories from books — they’re real experiences. Joined by Swami Revatikaanta and Mayuran, we explore key moments, including Ravi’s encounter with the Divine Mother — a life-changing experience that later continued with a darshan of Lord Narasimha.

The life of Paramahamsa Vishwananda continues to...

In this episode of Thinking Bhakti, Swami Revatikaanta speaks with Swami Tulsidas about spiritual life, creativity, and community-building.

They begin with the story behind the podcast—how it started in the ashram with limited resources and a basic setup. Swami Tulsidas shares what pushed him to keep recording despite the challenges.

The conversation moves into personal reflections on discovering Paramahamsa Vishwananda and building a devotional path without a ready-made community. They discuss the effort it takes to keep serving and growing spiritually even when things are far from ideal.

One focus is the ro...

From Neuroscience to the Ashram: Swami Anashuya’s Unconventional Journey

In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Swami Anashuya shares his search for truth—from childhood questions about death and the soul to rigorous studies in biochemistry and neuroscience. After walking away from academia, he explored shamanic traditions in the rainforest, vibrational healing, and New Age practices, only to find that none could offer the clarity or heart-opening love he was seeking.

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Pandit Krishna Kripa Dasa – Hindu priest, author, lecturer, and President of the Hindu Federation of Spain – shares inspiring insights into his efforts to unify the different Hindu traditions in Spain as well as in Europe.

He speaks about the differences with other religions, the challenges he faces, and the many beautiful teachings he has learned over the years in this role. He emphasizes the importance of using common sense to support this work.

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Meet Mahesh Kale, an Indian-American classical vocalist and playback singer renowned for his specialization in Indian Classical music, sharing deep insights into his life. He is one of the most prominent Indian Classical musicians of the new generation.
How did it all start for him to develop such a passion for music? What does it mean to travel around the world, and how can someone develop such a love for music?
His answers are fascinating, and in the end, he gives everyone hope by sharing that basically, everyone can sing—but one main ingredient is needed.

...

In this episode with Shandilya, we dive into the true essence of yoga, exploring its connection to God, the role of intention, and the evolution of its practices. The discussion starts by challenging modern perceptions of yoga, highlighting the importance of understanding it as a conscious path towards God. The conversation contrasts Patanjali's classical yoga, emphasizing its practical structure, with the deeper, spiritual aspects taught in the Bhagavad Gita. The hosts reflect on the essence of Bhakti Yoga and Atma Kriya, stressing that yoga is more than physical postures – it's about the relationship and devotion to the divine.

When someone truly dives into the spiritual journey, they are faced with many pitfalls and challenges along the way. One of these is the need to avoid desires that entangle the individual further in mundane reality. But what if there is a much more common danger that can sabotage the journey even more, yet one is not fully aware of it? Listen to Swami Revatikaanta as he explains in this satsang the importance of recognizing this enemy as soon as possible, before it becomes too late to confront it and to avoid unnecessary suffering on the spiritual journey back...

In this episode, we hear the story of Paartha, the first devotee of Paramahamsa Vishwananda in Europe, and how he met his guru at a very young age—an encounter that shaped his entire life.

He shares insights about the early years of Bhakti Marga in Europe and how it gradually evolved from a small community into the global movement we know today.

Swami Revatikaanta poses a fundamental question: How has Paramahamsa Vishwananda changed over the years? Has he become more strict? Has the path become more serious in the light of his mission to br...

This video is a continuation of the previous one. This time, we watch Stuart Knechtle as he speaks with a young student about frequently debated topics such as karma and caste. They also discuss the meaning of proselytization from both Christian and Hindu perspectives.

Is Stuart Knechtle’s criticism of Hinduism valid, or is there a significant misunderstanding at play?

Furthermore, Swami Revatikanta's analysis delves into whether followers of Sanatana Dharma should share their faith with others—and if so, in what way.

At the end, Swami Revatikaanta asks the question: Is the meth...

In this podcast the essence of the upcoming book of Mayuran Senthilnathan will be discussed. 
Back to Ayodhya is a unique and intriguing spiritual commentary on the ancient scripture of the Ramayana. Leading the reader through the dramatic events of this epic story, it reveals extraordinary hidden insights about the spiritual journey, with life lessons to help one make real changes along the way.
As the story unfolds, we see that the Ramayana is not merely an ancient narration, but rather an inner reality to be discovered, and the separation and union of Lord Răma and Si...

What does it mean for two young individuals to grow up in a Hindu spiritual community from a very young age, coming from very different backgrounds? 
Meet Shridara and Lakshmianandani Dasi, a young couple who grew up in Bhakti Marga, as they share their stories about experiencing this unique path and how they have been perceived by the outside world. 

What are their daily struggles, and what changed, especially after their initiation as devotees? They also share how the Youth Summer Sangha helped them deepen their spiritual path and strengthen their relationship with God and their Sa...

From Worst Enemy to Best Friend

Navigating through life, changing locations and surroundings, altering appearances, or acquiring new possessions might create the illusion that external changes can bring everlasting happiness. Yet, we often overlook the one constant companion within us, present 24 hours a day, which doesn’t always have our best interests at heart: the mind.

According to the Bhagavad Gita, when uncontrolled, the mind is our greatest enemy; when disciplined, it becomes our most powerful ally, capable of leading us to greatness in both the spiritual and material realms. Thus, the measure of so...

In this episode, we will hear the life story of Ameyatma Das, a renowned musician who went on an adventurous journey to finally meet his satguru. Through this path, he was able to embrace his God-given talent to help others, while always being reminded that every gift comes from God and that healers should see themselves as instruments in His hands.

We will explore the challenges within modern New Age spirituality, highlighting the importance of proper knowledge to avoid falling into ego-driven self-expression. We will also examine the immense responsibility that healers carry and gain a deeper...

In the final episode of the Tādātmya Vedānta series, we explore the nature of Śrī Hari, focusing on His essence and qualities, as well as His various avatāras. Additionally, we delve into His manifestations as the Satguru, Śiva, and Devī. The nature of the soul (ātma) will also be discussed, including the reason for our long journey and the nature of its relationship with Śrī Hari.

From the ultimate perspective, the Lord remains truly inconceivable to the limited human intellect. Where intellectual efforts fall short, śāstra offers guidance toward understanding His true nature. Yet, His myst...

The second episode delves into a deeper analysis of Tādātmya Vedānta - A Treatise on the Philosophy of the Hari Bhakta Sampradāya, written to provide a foundational philosophical conclusion (siddhānta) based on the teachings of Paramahamsa Vishwananda. It situates the contemporary movement of the Hari Bhakta Sampradāya within the expansive traditions of Vaiṣṇavism and Vedānta.

In this episode, we explore the landscape of Vedānta and its significance, examining what makes Vedānta unique among the various schools of thought within Sanātana Dharma. We also discuss the ways in which Advai...

Sampradāya Politics

The first episode discusses the myth of the four Sampradāyas, which is largely based on a specific verse in the Padma Purana. This verse is often used today to discredit Sampradāyas that fall outside of this system. 

Originally, it was intended to unify the various traditions, but over time, it became a tool to assert the legitimacy of one's own tradition, overlooking the true essence of a Sampradāya. This essence is far simpler and should centre on elements such as love, devotion and surrender to Śrī Hari, revealed by divine...

This episode delves into profound spiritual themes, including recognising the guru and the deep lessons found in the Guru-Disciple relationship. However, the steps to perfection are not always smooth. Swami Paranthapa, a long-term disciple of Paramahamsa Vishwananda, shares insights from his journey.

Swami Paranthapa recounts significant spiritual encounters, including meetings with Hanuman, and discusses the value of friendship, the importance of taking risks for the Guru, and a recent book release. The conversation also explores Hinduism’s presence in Africa, cultural challenges, and how the Thinking Bhakti Podcast serves as a bridge between diverse cultures.

Each person on this planet goes through the same journey of rediscovering the purpose of life, oneself, and our connection with God.

From an early age, Nikunja explored many different spiritual traditions, but deep inside, she felt there had to be something real, free from hypocrisy, that would give her the answers to her questions and the longing she had to discover the truth.
Then, one day, when she met her satguru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, her search ended, and she found what she had been longing for: spirituality in its simplicity, and the pursuit of only the...

Swami Bhakti Vedanta Muni Maharaj speaks in this episode about his deeply touching experience of how he handled the departure of his guru. 
What can devotees learn from such an experience when the guru leaves the body?

We also discuss Vaishnava unity, sadhana, and spiritual maturity. 

Swami Bhakti Vedanta Muni Maharaj was born in a high class Vaishnava family in India. He has started practicing Bhakti Yoga since age of five. He sung devotional songs under the personal guidance of two great saints of the 20th century, Sri Srimad Bhaktivedanta Gour Govinda Swami Maharaj an...

The Divine Realm and reality often go unseen by our limited senses, perceived as just another mundane phenomenon. However, it takes strong faith, dedication, and a longing heart to go on a spiritual journey and seek God. 
Throughout history, divine personalities have walked the earth, embodying divinity and proving that the Divine Realm is real, not just an idea. 

These personalities not only impart knowledge but also offer mystical and spiritual experiences to strengthen faith, showing that God is seeking a relationship with us.
In this podcast, Rishi Aditya shares how his spiritual Master provides da...

What does it mean to serve a guru directly, and what would be the outcome of this service when someone engages in it? 

Rishi Pankaj grew up in Bhakti Marga with his family and was later appointed as the personal secretary to Paramahamsa Vishwananda. In this role, he learned what it truly means to serve with the right intention and was inspired by the daily service his guru rendered to mankind. 

This duty was not always easy and had its challenges, but only when we go beyond our comfort zone can we truly grow.

...

The Problem With Exclusivity Doctrines

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta will discuss with Mayuran the hot topic of whether the three major religions can coexist in harmony. 
Are there any overlapping beliefs, or is the claim of exclusive truth the main reason we have so many debates about which religion has the 'absolute truth' today?

What is needed to respect other paths despite having different views? In a globalized society like ours, this topic needs to be properly examined to understand what needs to be done to live more harmoniously with e...

Finding meaning in life through the actions we take on a daily basis, whether in the long or short term, is something most of society can relate to. 
We are beings in search of fulfillment, but we often end up looking for it in the wrong places, either consciously or unconsciously. It begins with the essential questions in life, which eventually lead us to the place where we belong and can find our true dharma.

Discover how Rishi Amara Nimai Das found his path to the teacher he was looking for through an adventurous life journey.

Being spiritual doesn't mean that we suddenly have an easy life. Often, we need to take risks and step out of our comfort zone to discover the secrets of life that lie beyond fear. Trusting God requires a lot of courage and faith. 
Remembering many of her past lives had a significant impact on her understanding that there is more than just this one life.
Daya, who has had a long spiritual journey, moving 37 times around the globe, managing different businesses, and raising children, including Swami Revatikaanta, inspires others with her life story to take this risk a...

What is the common ground of sampradayas, and what distinguishes them? How can Vaishnavism be presented in the West without losing its essence, and does appearance create barriers to reaching people? Hridayananda Das Goswami is someone who prioritizes service and strives to share this universal teaching to help humanity grow. At the end, we will ask the question: Should Vaishnavism be separated from Indian culture in order to reach as many hearts as possible?

These and other topics are discussed in Episode 18 of the Thinking Bhakti Podcast.

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In this episode, you will hear about the intriguing journey of Sitaram Ricardo Peres, a long-term professional football coach. Later in his life, he found a deeper meaning that helped him improve all aspects of his life. 
Since meeting his guru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, his understanding of life has undergone a complete transformation. His life story is an inspiration, demonstrating how small improvements with greater depth can enhance our understanding of ourselves, the purpose of life, and even lead us to become better in our daily duties, transcending mere superficiality.

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