This is a brief journey of SELF-discovery and inner transformation. Explore the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta as we look into the essence of SELF-awareness and consciousness. Discover how …. READ ON SUBSTACK
I am pleased to share a comprehensive resource for those dedicated to the pursuit of self-realisation through Advaita Vedanta. This collection of 45 videos, hosted on YouTube, serves as a guided journey to help you internalise the profound teachings of non-dual Vedanta, the pinnacle of all Vedic studies. Each video is thoughtfully designed to facilitate a smoother path towards the realisation of Atma-Gnyaana — the knowledge of your own true, all-pervading, and attributeless SELF, known as Brahman or Krishna.
For your convenience, I have compiled these videos into a single PDF index with clickable links, allowing you to easily access each video at your own pace.
Download the PDF Index here: Understanding Vedanta with Tavamithram 03 (50 videos)
May this resource inspire and aid you in your quest for self-awareness and enlightenment, freeing you from all fears and negative emotions. These emotions can only rob you of your most precious asset — time on this planet — without offering true happiness in return.
The Path of Knowledge has been accorded the highest status among all paths towards Self-Realisation: Shloka SBG 4:38
In my journey of counselling and guiding individuals over the last decade through my Tavamithram blog, I have encountered numerous men and women who, after interactions with me, emerged more courageous, fearless, and self-confident. There have been a couple of young women who imbibed the knowledge I imparted so well that they did things requiring extensive courage—actions that would make a regular man think not just twice but three times. However, there are exceptions. Despite receiving extensive personal counselling, some individuals persist in wallowing in self-pity, which is something I always try to nip in the bud. This phenomenon, especially among young men, often manifests as existential rhetoric and disillusionment with worldly pursuits. This certainly does not sound even fundamentally manly to me. CONTINUE READING ON SUBSTACK.
| Now available in various online store fronts, such as: Amazon International, IN, DE, UK, AU, NL, CA, FR, ES, PL, IT, BR, MX |
*The paperback version is not available on Amazon India.
The preface and introduction lay the foundation for your exploration. Don't be tempted to skip these initial chapters; they are the compass guiding you through the intricate terrain of the Gita's philosophy. Understand the core teachings, and you'll find yourself motivated to delve deeper, perhaps into the rich Bhashyams or commentaries of Shri Adi Shankara and other great teachers.
As you progress through these chapters, absorb the profound insights that unfold. The clarity of understanding achieved in the earlier sections becomes the stepping stone for an even more profound comprehension of Krishna's teachings.
The culmination of your journey awaits in the final chapters. The outro ties the threads together, offering a comprehensive view of the Gita's timeless wisdom. This concluding section is not to be missed; it holds the key to empowerment and self-confidence.
Namaste Seekers,
Embark on a profound journey into the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita with ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada.’ Below, I’ll elucidate the profound significance of this work and its potential to illuminate the path to self-realisation.
In a fast-paced world fraught with complexities, the solace found in ancient wisdom often remains unexplored. 'The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada’ endeavours to bridge this gap, bringing forth the profound teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita to everyone, irrespective of age, background, or familiarity with ancient scriptures.
The main challenge involves dispelling misconceptions that surround the Srimad Bhagavad Gita—misconceptions about its perceived depth, religious connotations, and its relevance limited to the elderly or devout individuals. In this modern interpretation, we untangle myths and present timeless wisdom in a manner that aligns with the sensibilities of the contemporary mind.
Understanding the daunting nature of lengthy translations, a unique approach has been taken by creating easily digestible audio recordings of each chapter. These recordings allow listeners to absorb the essence of the Gita at their own pace, breaking down barriers that often deter individuals from exploring this ageless scripture.
Beyond presentation, this initiative is a call to embark on a blissful journey of self-discovery. In my life, which has been shaped by numerous challenges and life-altering situations, the importance of a well-trained instinct and a balanced mindset has become crystal clear to me. A clear understanding of the fundamental principles of the teachings in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita certainly plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes, cultivating fearlessness, and fostering rational thinking during critical moments.
The true power of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita lies in its application in everyday life. The focus is not merely on delivering a rendition or chanting Shlokas, but on providing practical insights that enable individuals to apply these teachings in their daily lives, leading to a more fulfilling and blissful existence.
In essence, the mission is to make the teachings of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita easily accessible, relatable, and applicable to everyone, fostering a deeper understanding of life's intricacies. Join me on this enlightening journey, and let's journey through the supreme scripture together.
Those who would like a promo code for a free download of the Audiobook version of the ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-Day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada’ may email their request to tavamithramoffice@gmail.com
Jai Shri Krishna
In the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavan Krishna reveals a profound truth in Shloka SBG 7:03
मनुष्याणां सहस्रेषु कश्चिद्यतति सिद्धये |
यततामपि सिद्धानां कश्चिन्मां वेत्ति तत्त्वतः
manush-yaaNaam sahasreshu kash-chi-dyatati siddhaye
yatataa-mapi siddhaa-naam kash-chinmaam vetti tattvataha (SBG 7:03)”
“Out of thousands of men, hardly one tries to achieve perfection in Self-realisation and among those trying so hard to do so, there is hardly one who achieves perfection in Self-realisation and among those who do achieve Self-realisation, there is hardly one who truly knows Me.”
This revelation highlights a stark reality: the path to true SELF-realisation is trodden by only a few, and among those few, even fewer truly comprehend the essence of the Divine.
Reflecting on this, it’s remarkable to consider the efforts of Shri Adi Shankaracharya, my prime human spiritual guru. In the timeless ‘NirvaaNa Shatakam,’ he encapsulated profound truths in merely six Shlokas. Yet, he journeyed across Bharata Varsha (India) by foot, enlightening kings and commoners alike with the supreme knowledge of Vedanta. Why such an arduous endeavour? The answer lies in the pervasive ignorance that clouds human intellect.
One who has not achieved mental clarity—being confused, scared, worried, stuck in a belief system, or a mental slave to someone—usually flashes the victim card at the drop of a hat. In contrast, one who is sincerely seeking treats all experiences as learning opportunities. Simply put, I am extremely thankful to all those who cheated, hurt, insulted, or tried to harm me in the past. Without them, I might not have had sufficient fuel to propel my ship to the heights of bliss I have managed to create for myself in any given situation.
For ten years, yes, TEN YEARS, I have dedicated myself to this blog, sharing the rational philosophy of Vedanta. Many have visited, gained some insights, made minor life changes, and moved on. Some, however, have exhibited a shocking lack of courtesy and decency, demanding answers without a trace of respect. Here’s a recent example on my contact page from an Indian person living in the USA: “Can you break your fast completely second day of Navratri if you can’t do it or don’t have proper items is it a sin. Can I break my fast for Navratri or did I already break it before 8 by eating fruits and ate food after 9 pm doing aarti.” No greeting, no politeness—just a blunt demand for an answer, coupled with a disregard for the language they’re using, which is the main language of the country they are living in! This is the impression these people create of Indians. And what am I supposed to say to such a query? Is this a typical ‘Indian’ way of interacting with people? I can’t even discern what this person wants from me!
Well, on October 11th, 2024, two of this blog’s sincere and senior-most followers (senior not in terms of age but in years of association with this blog and my mission), along with my oldest and most trusted friend, and I had an online meeting to discuss Atma, Anatma, and the Mahavakya ‘Pragnyaanam Brahma’. The joy of engaging with such true seekers is simply indescribable, contrasting sharply with the frustration of dealing with blind believers who spread nonsense without understanding even the basics of Vedanta.
If the idea of discussing Vedanta resonates with you, if you wish to free yourself from the shackles of intellect-numbing belief systems, if you desire to live a life that is peaceful and blissful, and if you feel a genuine pull towards Vedanta, you may write to me and express your interest in joining our next online discussion. You can always go through the posts on this blog and watch videos on the Tavamithram YouTube channel. For the rest, feel free to continue on your current path—no pressure, no problem.
Seekers, let’s continue seeking Truth together.
We live in a world filled with diverse beliefs and philosophies, in which, the quest for truth remains a constant journey. This video, “The Shocking Truth: Christianity vs. Vedanta – Faith or Reason?” takes you on an enlightening exploration of two profound world-views that have shaped human thought and spirituality for centuries.
Christianity and Vedanta offer distinct paths to understanding the nature of existence, the divine, and our place in the cosmos. While Christianity is rooted in faith and belief in a personal God, Vedanta emphasises knowledge and SELF-realisation, guiding seekers towards the ultimate truth of oneness with Brahman.
This thought-provoking video, is a discussion on the core principles of both Christianity and Vedanta, comparing and contrasting their teachings. We discuss the concept of duality versus non-duality, the role of reason and logic in spiritual pursuit, and the historical context that has shaped these traditions.
The Mahavakya or grand statement “Aham Brahmasmi” (“I am Brahman”) from the Brihadaryanaka Upanishad is a powerful representation of the Vedantic experience of unity and self-realisation. This Mahavakya can be used as a gateway to begin understanding the profound insights of Vedanta.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the Tavamithram Sarvada blog and YouTube channel for more posts and videos on philosophy, spirituality, and self-discovery. Follow this blog for updates and more enlightening content.
Embark on this journey with me and uncover the shocking truth that lies at the intersection of faith and reason.
This video presentation delves into profound philosophical questions through an engaging Q&A discussion. This session is designed to ignite your curiosity and challenge your understanding of reality, consciousness, and the nature of the self. This video is a must-watch if you’ve ever wondered about the deeper meanings behind ancient scriptures or the true essence of existence.
We explore various analogies to shed light on complex concepts. Imagine understanding the nature of consciousness through the metaphor of a wave in the ocean, a fire igniting under the right conditions, or the space within a pot. These simple yet powerful illustrations can transform your perception and deepen your insight into non-duality and the oneness of all existence.
In the pursuit of knowledge, it is crucial to study, observe, analyse, and experience rather than simply accept interpretations handed down by others. The masses often prefer to listen passively rather than actively engage with the material. This passive acceptance can lead to misunderstandings and superficial knowledge. True understanding comes from questioning, probing, and seeking clarity.
As Krishna states in Shloka 4:38 of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, “There is certainly nothing more purifying than knowledge. He who is perfect in Yoga finds it in the Self in due course of time.” This Shloka highlights the transformative power of true knowledge and its role in achieving a peaceful state of mind.
Clarity is essential for inner peace and spiritual growth. By challenging assumptions and seeking to understand the fundamental truths, we can attain a deeper level of clarity. This journey requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to go beyond surface-level interpretations.
This video is not just another lecture; it’s an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery. The discussion is designed to make you think critically and inspire you to seek your own answers. I present ideas that can change the way you view the world and your place within it.
Join this enlightening discussion and take the first step towards true knowledge. Watch the video now and start questioning everything you thought you knew.
Stay curious, stay engaged, and remember: the journey to knowledge and clarity is the path to true peace and enlightenment.
After six years, I am revisiting this post to shed more light on the principles of Karma, Karmayoga, Doership, and methods to manage one’s Karma.
Realisation is the crucial first step in managing and transforming your own Karma. Recognising that nothing is happening to you personally, but rather that all events in your life are the result of your Karma, which is shaped by your genetic inheritance, upbringing, education, and experiences—can open a new path for you. This awareness allows you to take corrective measures and actively alter the course of your life.
Blaming others for your circumstances and failing to take action to change them is a futile use of your time and energy.
Those who delve into the Srimad Bhagavad Gita recognise that attachment is the root of negative emotions such as sadness, dejection, anger, jealousy, and hatred. Attachment to the outcomes of one’s actions can diminish concentration and efficiency, causing immense pain when goals are not achieved.
One effective approach to reaching the ultimate goal is through Karma Marga—the path of righteous action performed without attachment to results. This practice ensures mental equilibrium, even in challenging circumstances.
Bhagavan Krishna imparted to Arjuna the significance of being a Karmayogi and provided guidance on adopting this path.
A common question from those unfamiliar with Karmayoga is, “How can one work without considering the outcome or aiming for a result?” This question arises from a misunderstanding of Krishna’s teachings, which emphasise that a doer should be entirely focused on their objective: SBG 2:41 “In this path, O Arjuna, there is a single point of focus and determination. The thoughts of the undecided are branched and are infinite.”
Attachment to results can lead to a loss of focus, as individuals may become preoccupied with the rewards of success or the fears of failure—scenarios that are purely speculative. This mental diversion compromises the quality of their work, steering them towards mediocrity.
Many of us find ourselves stuck in a cycle of complaining, brooding, and feeling generally dissatisfied with our circumstances. Whether it’s our job, relationships, or personal achievements, the tendency to ruminate on what’s wrong can be overwhelming. And yet, despite the temporary relief we might find in venting to a friend or relative, we often wake up the next day only to repeat the same routine, with nothing having changed. The question then arises: how can we expect change when we continue to do the same thing?
Complaining and brooding are natural human responses to dissatisfaction. It’s almost instinctual to express our frustrations when things don’t go as planned. However, these actions rarely lead to meaningful change. Instead, they often serve as a temporary release, a way to momentarily ease the pressure without addressing the underlying issues. As a result, we remain stuck in the same unfavourable situation, repeating the cycle day after day.
To break free from this cycle, it’s crucial to take a different approach—one rooted in clarity and action. The key lies in defining your problems and goals with precision. Let me take you back to my childhood to illustrate this point.
As a young boy, I was naturally curious and had a mechanical aptitude that drove me to understand how things worked. I was always eager to get to the bottom of things, refusing to accept anything at face value without clear evidence. When I was reprimanded by elders or teachers for my behaviour, I didn’t just accept the scolding. Instead, I wanted to know what I had done wrong and, more importantly, what I should do right. However, my requests for guidance were often met with silence or a cold stare, leaving me with unanswered questions.
This experience taught me a vital lesson: in any situation, if something is wrong, it’s essential to ask, “What is right?” This principle can be applied to any area of life:
Once you’ve asked these questions, the next step is to define your situation clearly. Here’s a practical approach:
Identify What You Don’t Like and Why: Be specific about what bothers you. Is it the long hours at work, the lack of appreciation, or perhaps a feeling of being stuck? Understand the root cause of your dissatisfaction.
Create a Clear Vision of What You Want
: Visualise your ideal situation in detail. What does your perfect job look like? What qualities define your ideal relationship? Be as specific as possible, down to the finest details.Develop a Plan to Achieve Your Vision
: Identify the steps you need to take to move from your current situation to your ideal one. This might involve learning new skills, making lifestyle changes, or even having difficult conversations. The key is to take actionable steps that lead you closer to your goal.Many people, when faced with an unfavourable situation, seek quick fixes to ease their minds temporarily. Whether it’s pouring out your woes to a friend, closing your eyes and sitting under a tree or in a religious place, or even turning to substances, these methods offer only momentary relief. They don’t address the core issues and often lead to more frustration when the problem inevitably resurfaces.
Please always remember that if someone truly wants something, they will find a way to get it. Consider alcohol and substance addicts or those addicted to gambling—they always manage to obtain what they crave. If you feel you’ve been working hard with no improvement in your life, instead of adopting a victim or ‘poor me’ attitude, try to view it from another perspective. Perhaps your efforts are insufficient, misdirected, or lack proper direction.
If you’re unhappy with your current situation, don’t waste time complaining or seeking temporary distractions. Instead, follow the steps I’ve outlined:
By doing so, you’ll find that you have the power to transform your life into something truly fulfilling. These steps may seem simple, but they are profoundly effective—I speak from experience.
Never forget that many people don’t know exactly what they want. Complaining and feeling depressed require less effort than reflecting and strategising, which is why slipping into self-pity is so easy. For anything good and positive to materialise, there must first be a clear image in the mind. So, the next time you feel the urge to complain or brood, make sure you know exactly what you want.
Real change begins with a clear definition of your goals and a commitment to taking action.
*Please listen to the audio or read the post before watching the video.
After a decade away, I found myself standing once more in front of the house where I had lived until I was 11. This was the place where my sister and I used to walk to school, hand in hand, through green fields, joyfully crossing a small brook along the way. But as I stood there, I was struck by how different everything seemed. The street that once seemed so long and wide now appeared short and narrow. The house, which I remembered as spacious, looked small. The distance to my school, which had once felt like a great journey, now seemed trivial.
What had happened? When I left Poona, I was 11 years old. Now, I was 21. I had grown taller, and my perspective had shifted. The distances and proportions I held in my mind were relative to my height and understanding as a child.
This experience confirmed a profound truth: what we call reality is shaped entirely by our perception. When I was a child, my world seemed vast. As an adult, returning to that same world, it appeared small and contained. The reality I perceived at 11 was not an absolute truth—it was a reflection of my limited perception at that time.
This realisation extends far beyond childhood memories. It speaks to the very nature of our existence and the limitations we impose upon ourselves. Those who are deluded into believing they are merely their bodies, confined by irrational religious beliefs and paralysed by the fear of defying some ‘heavenly figure’, are trapped in a narrow reality. Their consciousness is limited, their minds blocked by layers of fear, dogma, and superstition.
But imagine if they could step out of these mental prisons—if they could free themselves from the beliefs that restrict their consciousness and their ability to think freely. They would rise above these illusions and delusions, and experience the ultimate truth of their existence: the realisation of their true SELF as subjective awareness, which is formless and, once not mentally limited to the body, is all-pervading.
This is the essence of the awakening journey—transcending the childish beliefs, religions, cults, and sects that confine us, and attaining the highest state of understanding. It is a journey from the narrow confines of perception to the boundless expanses of consciousness.
Take this fascinating virtual flight through space to the end of the observable universe and back. As you do, realise the vastness and awesomeness of existence. Let it inspire you to rise above the illusions that bind you and to reach for that highest state of awareness where the ultimate truth resides, far beyond the constructs of human beliefs.
Tavamithram Sarvada 