Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta for Everyday Living
The Bhagavad Gita teaches the essence of the ancient Vedanta philosophy. Vedanta is the complete wisdom for achieving a peaceful, productive, and purposeful life in this world.In this podcast series, Gautamji, senior disciple of Swami A Parthasarathy, explains the Gita verse by verse, focussing on its practical application in modern living.Gautamji also addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. In addition to the verse by verse explanations, these will be helpful to better understand and apply these teachings in your life.
E174. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
Gautamji Answers Questions from Students
In this episode, Gautamji clarifies our understanding of obligations and how they must be fulfilled to attain life’s ultimate goal: Self-Realization.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, pr...
E173. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 29 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s teaching that one who is united with the Self sees the Self in all beings and all beings in the Self. He discusses how spiritual growth expands our sense of identification beyond ourselves, our families and other limited groups. He emphasizes that the realization of oneness is the culmination of overcoming selfishness, while our individual obligations must still be fulfilled. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how on...
E172. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 27–28 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s description of the supreme peace and bliss attained by one whose mind is perfectly tranquil and free from selfish desires. He discusses how the body and mind are constantly affected by the changing world, and why lasting happiness cannot depend on external circumstances. Through knowledge and sustained spiritual practice, the seeker gradually develops the independence necessary to realize the Self. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how on...
E171. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 25–26 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s instruction to withdraw the mind from worldly indulgence little by little, guided by a firm intellect. He emphasizes that spiritual growth does not require abandoning responsibilities, but gradually reducing mental dependence and redirecting our energy toward a higher purpose. He also explains why the restless mind must repeatedly be brought back under the control of the intellect and toward the Self.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. Th...
E170. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 24 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji continues Krishna’s teaching on yoga as freedom from sorrow, explaining why complacency prevents us from recognizing the need for spiritual growth. He discusses how knowledge shifts our motivation from selfish gain toward service, without requiring us to abandon our responsibilities. Turning to verse 24, he explains the complete renunciation of desires and control of the senses required for meditation, emphasizing the need to overcome even deeply rooted attachments.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all hu...
E169. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 23 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s description of yoga as the severance of our union with sorrow. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses how desire itself reveals a sense of incompleteness and how spiritual knowledge directs us toward the permanent bliss of the Self. This pursuit requires determination and an undespairing mind, with the intellect directing our emotions and actions toward the higher goal.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred sc...
E168. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 22 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s description of Self-realization as the supreme gain, beyond which nothing greater remains to be attained. Established in that state, a person is no longer shaken even by great sorrow. He explains that while worldly happiness is temporary, enlightenment brings the supreme happiness that is permanent and never leaves us.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ul...
E167. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 19–21 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s comparison of the controlled mind to the steady flame of a lamp in a windless place. He discusses how desires and attachments disturb the mind, while spiritual practice gradually brings it to rest and turns our search for happiness within. Ultimately, the seeker discovers the supreme and permanent bliss of the Self, beyond the changing experiences of the senses. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one ca...
E166. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 18 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s description of a perfectly controlled mind, freed from desire for worldly objects and resting in the Self alone. Rather than attempting to force meditation, the seeker must prepare through knowledge, selfless action and disciplined living until the mind becomes ready for the final pursuit of Self-realization.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true ha...
E165. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on universal welfare, individual obligations, satsang, desire and selflessness. He explains why our feelings should be universal while our obligations remain specific, and how the intellect must guide our actions and everyday decisions. He also discusses how worldly responsibilities and progress can support spiritual growth when directed toward a higher purpose without mental agitation. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities...
E164. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
Gautamji Answers Questions from Students
In this episode, In this episode, Gautamji explains that maintaining objectivity in all actions is both a goal and a practise and is one of the pratical ways in which the teachings of Vedanta can help one live a life free from stress.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose...
E163. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 14–17 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains how greater peace, fearlessness and self-control become measures of spiritual growth. He discusses Krishna’s emphasis on regulation rather than indulgence or suppression, and how moderation in action, recreation, eating and sleep supports the journey toward the Self.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
In th...
E162. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 11–13 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s instructions for preparing the body and mind for meditation, while emphasizing that the essential requirement is a controlled, single-pointed mind. Meditation is the culmination of spiritual preparation: as desires fall away, the seeker becomes capable of focusing entirely on Self-realization.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
...
E161. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verse 10 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains the purpose of meditation and why a seeker must first reduce desires through knowledge, selfless action and devotion. Krishna then begins to describe the disciplines required of the advanced seeker whose mind is controlled and ready to turn completely toward the Self.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
<...E160. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on the individual self and the Self, mastery of the mind, and the process of spiritual growth. He discusses conditioned consciousness, self-effort, balance and the movement from knowledge to wisdom. He also explains how everyday situations can become opportunities to reduce selfishness and develop greater control over the mind.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges...
E159. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 8–9 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains that as knowledge becomes wisdom, we become less dependent on external objects and people for our happiness. Krishna describes the spiritually evolved person as remaining equal amid differences in material value and extending the same regard to friend and foe, relative and stranger, righteous and unrighteous.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and...
E158. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 5–7 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s teaching that we must raise ourselves through our own effort. The mind we master becomes our friend, while the uncontrolled mind becomes our enemy. As self-control develops, we become increasingly peaceful and balanced through the changing experiences of life.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
...E157. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 6 Verses 1–4 ‘The Yoga of Meditation’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji begins Chapter 6 by explaining Krishna’s definition of a spiritual person: one who has a higher purpose, remains active in the world and performs action without depending on its fruit. He explains that action is the means for the seeker, while quietude becomes the means only for one established in yoga. Meditation therefore comes only after the mind has been prepared through sustained spiritual practice.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sa...
156. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on ego, self-control, and applying spiritual knowledge in daily life. He explains how awareness of mental agitation helps identify the workings of the ego, and why the intellect must guide our actions without allowing external situations to disturb us. He also discusses the stages of spiritual growth and why selfless action forms the greater part of a seeker’s spiritual practice.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human be...
E155 Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 26–29 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji I
In this concluding episode of Chapter 5, Gautamji explains the qualities required to attain the bliss of Brahman: freedom from desire and anger, self-control, and mastery over the mind. He explains why meditation is meant for a highly evolved seeker whose senses, mind, and intellect are controlled and whose goal is liberation. He concludes with Krishna’s teaching on sacrifice and austerity as the foundation of the spiritual journey and the path to lasting peace.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of li...
E154 Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
Gautamji Answers Questions from Students
In this episode, In this episode, Gautamji explains the purpose of prayer and worship and the role that idols and rituals play in a spiritual seeker's journey to seeking the Ultimate Reality.
More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
In this podcast series, Gautamji...
E153. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on duty, desire, self-control, and the pursuit of the Self. He explains why fulfilling desires cannot remove desire, how knowledge directs the mind toward higher values, and why the force of the mind must be resisted through sustained study and effort. He also discusses spiritual bliss, controlling particular areas of weakness, and performing obligations in a spirit of service. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how...
E152. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 24–25 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains the inner happiness of one who rejoices in and is illumined by the Self. He discusses how the bliss of Brahman is attained by overcoming mental agitation, duality, and lack of self-control. He also describes concern for the welfare of all beings as an essential mark of spiritual growth and Self-realization. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find...
E151. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verse 23 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji continues Krishna’s teaching on withstanding the force of desire and anger. He explains that spiritual growth depends not only on gaining knowledge, but also on refusing to compromise with areas of indulgence and attachment. He discusses why the ability to say no to the mind, remain committed to higher principles, and keep the Self as the central focus makes a person a true yogi.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human be...
E150. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on spiritual growth, family obligations, self-control, and the role of the intellect. He explains how a seeker can serve others without becoming weak or emotionally dependent, and why the intellect must be strengthened to control the mind. He also discusses moderation, attachment, and how commitment to higher values can be maintained while continuing to live and work in the world.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings...
E149. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 22–23 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains why enjoyments born of contact with the world are temporary and become sources of sorrow. He discusses how repeated indulgence reduces enjoyment while creating further desires and dependence. He also explains why the ability to withstand the force of desire and anger is the mark of a true yogi and the basis of lasting happiness.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate...
E148. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 20–21 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains how spiritual growth is reflected in a steady intellect and a mind that is no longer elated by pleasant experiences or disturbed by unpleasant ones. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses why lasting happiness cannot depend on changing external circumstances. He also explains how turning away from external contacts and uniting with the Self leads from inner happiness to the eternal bliss of Brahman.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all...
E147. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on knowledge, doership, devotion, and spiritual practice. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he explains why knowledge is the foundation of Karma Yoga and devotion, how acting without ego weakens the sense of doership, and why a true Guru is essential for spiritual growth. He also discusses applying Vedantic wisdom to overcome attachment, strengthen the intellect, and develop greater inner independence.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all...
E146. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 18–19 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains the qualities of a spiritually wise person through Krishna's teachings on equality of vision and inner equanimity. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses why true wisdom sees the same divine Self in all beings, beyond differences in nature or status. He also explains how lasting peace comes from inner self-sufficiency, making equanimity the true measure of spiritual growth.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred...
E145. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
Gautamji Answers Questions from StudentsIn this episode, Gautamji clarifies how Vedanta clearly helps us understand the illusion of this world and its transcience, the path to transcend it and reach a state of Self Realization that is far removed from sorrow and suffering.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
<...E144. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 16–17 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains how knowledge destroys ignorance and reveals the true nature of the Self. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses why spiritual knowledge is the only remedy for delusion, and how establishing the mind and intellect in the Self transforms a seeker's life. He also explains why making Self-realization the supreme goal leads to lasting peace and a state of no return.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings...
E143. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on Karma Yoga, self-purification, and spiritual growth. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he explains why selfless action prepares the mind for Self-realization, how intellect must guide unselfishness, and why lasting transformation comes from changing one's own nature rather than trying to change others. He also discusses how knowledge gradually becomes wisdom through consistent study and practice.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred...
E142. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 14–15 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains why the Self is neither the doer of actions nor the giver of their results. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses how each person's nature manifests through their thoughts and actions, while ignorance alone veils the knowledge of the Self. He also explains how understanding this truth helps us act with greater objectivity in our relationships and daily life.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This...
E141. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 12–13 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains the difference between a yogi and an enlightened being through Krishna’s teachings in the Bhagavad Gita. Drawing from Vedanta, he clarifies that spiritual growth comes from renouncing the fruits of action—not action itself—and shows how selfless action leads to lasting inner peace. He also describes the state of one who is fully established in the Self, free from personal desires and inwardly content.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all hu...
E140. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
In this Q&A session, Gautamji answers questions on selfless action, discipline, prayer, and spiritual growth. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he explains why desires gradually lose their hold through consistent practice, why action must accompany prayer, and how self-purification becomes the foundation of Karma Yoga. He also discusses creating a conducive environment for spiritual practice, cultivating gratitude, and serving others without expectation.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture...
E139. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 10–11 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains how a spiritually advanced seeker and a yogi relate differently to action. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he uses the lotus leaf as an analogy to explain how one who is established in the Self remains untouched by worldly attachments. He also discusses how a yogi performs selfless action for self-purification, making service to others the foundation of spiritual growth.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture...
E138. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 7–9 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains the qualities of an Enlightened person and the path to self-realization. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta, he discusses how purification of the ego, mastery over the senses, and selfless action prepare the mind for enlightenment. He also explains why one who has realized the Self remains untouched by action, seeing the Self in all beings.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate...
E137. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verses 5–6 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
In this episode, Gautamji explains Krishna’s teaching that action and renunciation are stages of the same spiritual path. Drawing from Vedanta philosophy, he discusses how ignorance keeps a person attached to temporary pleasures, while knowledge and selfless action gradually lead to clarity, peace, and freedom from selfishness. He also explains why renunciation can only develop through action supported by higher understanding.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one ca...
E136. Bhagavad Gita | Chapter 5 Verse 4 ‘The Yoga of Renunciation of Action’ | Gautamji
Gautamji continues Chapter 5 by explaining why the practice of Vedanta is renunciation in action, not withdrawal from life. He discusses how true renunciation is freedom from ego and selfish expectation while remaining active in work, family, and daily responsibilities. Through practical examples, he explains how dependence on external situations creates bondage, while higher thinking gradually leads to peace and inner freedom.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can...
E135. Vedanta & Bhagavad Gita | Q&A | Gautamji
Gautamji Answers Questions from StudentsIn this episode, Gautamji elaborates on three practices to discipline the mind - the 3 C's namely concentration, consistency and cooperation. Vedanta teaches us these techniques, without which one cannot make progress or achieve success in the material world or the spiritual path. More about the podcast:
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.
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