Are You Ready to Call Yourself a Modern Rishi?

The Modern Rishi does not escape life, but transcends illusion.

For many years I have said that Vedanta is not blind belief, ritual repetition, personality worship or spiritual entertainment. It exists to produce clarity. It helps us examine what we have assumed, see the forces that shape our thinking, and recognise what is real beneath inherited identity, fear and conditioning.

The Modern Rishi Movement is the next step in that work.

It is for people who question what others repeat, who examine what others merely believe, and who would rather face an uncomfortable truth than live inside a convenient illusion.

This movement is not for everyone.

If you repeat mantras daily without ever asking what they mean, you will find nothing here. If you prefer inherited belief to direct understanding, or want another guru to follow, another personality to worship, another comforting system to tell you what to think, look elsewhere. And if you are unwilling to question your own assumptions, identities, loyalties and conclusions, you are not ready for this yet.

A mantra is not a mechanical refuge from thought. A teaching memorised while life continues unchanged has achieved nothing. The words of Vedanta and the Srimad Bhagavad Gita have to be examined and understood before they can mean anything at all. They exist to transform perception, bring clarity to action and free the mind from confusion.

Who is a Modern Rishi?

A Modern Rishi lives fully in the world without being ruled by its noise, acts with awareness rather than reaction, and values truth above emotional convenience.

There is no withdrawal from responsibility here. The Modern Rishi works, creates, leads, protects and serves, but is not imprisoned by status, praise, fear, ideology or the demand for approval. Divisions of gender, religion, nationality, class and wealth are recognised as conditions of human life, not as the truth of what one is.

None of this means passivity, detachment or indifference to suffering. It means living with greater attention, discipline, courage and compassion.

Why this movement now?

Information has never been more abundant. Clarity is still rare.

People inherit beliefs before they are capable of examining them. They are taught whom to admire, whom to fear, what to defend and what must never be questioned. Political identity, religious identity, social labels, media narratives and group loyalty colour perception until people can no longer separate what they see from what they have been trained to see.

The Modern Rishi Movement begins with the willingness to examine that colouring. It asks:

What do I actually know?
What have I only repeated?
What has shaped the person I take myself to be?
Am I seeing clearly, or through filters handed to me?

How Tavamithram Led to the Modern Rishi Movement

Through Tavamithram, I have presented Vedanta and the Srimad Bhagavad Gita as instruments of understanding and freedom, never of religious authority or blind faith.

The Modern Rishi Movement carries that work into a wider space. It examines perception, identity, social conditioning, inherited belief and intellectual courage, and how these forces shape the way we think, react and live. Its foundation is Vedanta; what it addresses is life as it is lived now.

The movement formally begins on 15 August 2026. Until then, the new Modern Rishi site will introduce its vision, principles, films and reflections.

Are you ready?

You do not need to agree with me, accept a doctrine or surrender your intelligence to anyone. You do need to be willing to look. Question what you have inherited, investigate what you repeat, and examine whether your convictions arise from understanding or from conditioning.

If you are ready for that, enter.

12 Years of Clarity: The Journey of Tavamithram Sarvada

Twelve years ago, in February 2014, Tavamithram Sarvada began quietly. There was no grand announcement, no strategy to gather followers, and no desire to become an authority. It began from a simple, unwavering intention: clarity. I wanted a space where truth could be examined honestly, where ideas could be tested, and where understanding would matter more than approval.

This platform was never meant to impress. It was meant to illuminate.

From the very beginning, the aim was to share what truly helps a human being live with steadiness, intelligence, and inner freedom. Not borrowed knowledge. Not inherited beliefs. Not emotional comfort. But understanding grounded in observation, reason, and direct insight.

Over these twelve years, I have shared what I have studied, tested, experienced, and verified for myself. The central focus has always remained the same: the nature of the mind, the root of suffering, and the possibility of freedom through clarity.

One truth stands out above all. Disturbance does not come from situations. It comes from interpretation. Events are neutral. It is the mind’s reaction that creates agitation. When perception becomes clear, reaction becomes intelligent. And when reaction becomes intelligent, calmness is no longer something to be practised. It becomes natural.

Many believe calmness means suppressing emotion. That is not calmness. Calmness is understanding. When something is fully understood, it no longer disturbs. This is why I have always emphasised observation before change. Just as a doctor diagnoses before treatment, one must observe the mind before trying to control it. Without understanding, all effort becomes struggle. With understanding, transformation becomes effortless.

Throughout these years, I have consistently pointed to one direct and reliable source of supreme knowledge: the Srimad Bhagavad Gita. Not as a religious text, not as mythology, not as ritual instruction, but as a precise manual of clarity. When understood rationally, it cuts through confusion faster than any other teaching. It dismantles fear, exposes illusion, dissolves dependency, and frees a person from mental slavery to belief systems, authorities, and imagined limitations.

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita does not ask for belief. It leads a seeker towards understanding. And understanding is liberation.

Everything shared through Tavamithram Sarvada has revolved around this principle: verify for yourself. Do not accept something because it is ancient. Do not reject something because it is unfamiliar. Examine, reflect, and understand. Truth does not fear inquiry.

Over these twelve years, this platform has grown into a body of work that includes writings, explanations, lessons, reflections, and practical frameworks for living with clarity. Many readers have written to say that they think more clearly now, react less impulsively, and feel stronger inwardly. That is the only measure that matters. Not numbers. Not recognition. Transformation.

What makes this work different is simple. It does not ask anyone to follow. It asks them to understand. It does not create dependence. It encourages independence. It does not promise comfort. It offers clarity. Comfort weakens. Clarity strengthens.

Tavamithram Sarvada began as a silent movement for those who have had enough of religious nonsense sold to them and are ready for the ultimate truth of Vedanta. It is a reminder. A reminder that every human being already possesses the capacity for insight, steadiness, and freedom. Nothing new needs to be added. Only confusion needs to be removed.

To everyone who has read, reflected, questioned, disagreed, or grown through these writings over the years, you have my sincere appreciation. Your willingness to think deeply keeps this space alive and meaningful.

Twelve years have passed. The purpose has not changed. The direction has not shifted. And the commitment remains exactly what it was on day one: clarity above all.

The journey continues.

With love and affection.

Tavamithram Sarvada

First Achieve and Then Let Go!

Sour Grapes and Self-Pity – Escaping Life’s Responsibilities

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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.

The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering

Embracing the Blissful Journey: The Ever-Relevant Gita – A Present-Day Rendering by Tavamithram Sarvada

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.

Part 1: Preface and Introduction + Chapters 1-6

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.

Part 2: Chapters 7-12

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.

Part 3: Chapters 13-18 + Outro

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.

Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions

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.

A Unique Approach: Audio, Video, and E-book Formats

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.

Practical Insights for Daily Application

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

Forget the Heart, First Heal the Mind!

Beyond Prayers and Miracles – The Rational Path to Self-Realisation

Transform Your Life with Vedanta, The Science of all Sciences

WATCH THIS AND CLEAR YOUR HEAD OF ALL UNWANTED STUFF:

When ignorance becomes the norm, entire masses of people can be easily swayed to firmly believe the unreal to be real. The crucial factor in society that enables a select few to manipulate their minds is the ignorance of the masses, which basically stems from blind beliefs that numb their brains, and sheer laziness to make a move to get out of ignorance.

People come to my blog, watch some of my videos, and ask me what they should do to change their lives. Almost everyone wants instant solutions, and they are even willing to pay for shortcuts! One should not overlook the fact that even the act of going to a religious place and praying for what one wants is a form of seeking shortcuts.

But the truth is that everything has a price, and everything is part of the never-ending cause-and-effect chain. Asking someone or ‘god’ to give them what they want could only mean that the so-called ‘god’ changes his plans to suit the needs of the one praying. So, what about the others? Do their lives get destroyed because someone else prayed and got things done by ‘god’ to do things their way? Really? So, what happens when two entities at war with each other pray to the same ‘god’? Who do you think ‘god’ will bless with special favours?!

How many people really dare to make massive changes in their lives, have the courage to travel around, experience and learn more, and evolve? Krishna says in Shloka SBG 7:19, “Therefore, after innumerable births, the one who has perfected his or her wisdom, understanding fully My universal reality, surrenders to Me and such an individual is very rare.”

So, with a default state of mind of wanting to maintain the status quo, people tend to look for easy ways out, shortcuts, middlemen, and women who can help them achieve success through the short path, which is a form of corruption or fraud. It is because people want something without really working for it.

When did Krishna say in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita to go to his temples, perform meaningless rites and rituals with the mammary milk of poor voiceless animals, sing songs in His praise, chant Mantras the whole day, and do nothing else? The clear instruction in the second chapter is that you only have the right to work, but never to claim its results. The results of your actions should never be your motive, but at the same time, you should not be attached to inaction.

Then why do people perform religious rites to fulfill personal desires?

Vedanta and the Srimad Bhagavad Gita

Shloka 18:66 of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita does not mean that one should have blind belief in Krishna.

Krishna says in SBG 18:66, “Giving up all your ideas of righteousness or religion, take complete refuge in Me. I will liberate you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.”

It means, “Give up all the nonsensical ideas you might have in the name of religion, and by adopting the logical analysis and reasoning provided throughout until the 18th chapter, become one with Krishna.”

The entire purpose of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita is to guide people to shed their false beliefs and take to a rational study of truth. The process is very simple with three stages:

  1. Sidhaanta – A Question, Idea, Concept, or Theory
  2. Saadhana – The means to study, including reading, listening, researching, analysing, debating, etc.
  3. Siddhi – Final understanding, internalisation, and experience, known as Anubhava in Sanskrit.

Scientists don’t believe anything without evidence, do they? Remember that Vedanta is the science of all sciences.

Reason and Logic in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita

The Srimad Bhagavad Gita talks about reason and logic and NEVER about belief.

SBG 13:4 states, “Great sages have sung about the absolute truth in various ways. They have stated the truth in Vedic hymns and have described it in the Brahma Sutras through reason and logic with unambiguous evidence.”

Shloka SBG 4:34 says, “Acquire knowledge through reverence to teachers who have known the Truth, serve them and ask them questions until all of them are answered. The wise who know the Truth will teach it to you.”

Definition of Religion

Religion is a system of beliefs, practices, and values often centred around the worship of a higher power or divine beings. It typically involves rituals, moral guidelines, and a community of followers who share the same belief and faith.

Did you find anything related to reason, rationality, science, inquiry, or logic in this definition?

Vedanta: The Pinnacle of Vedic Studies

Vedanta is the highest point of Vedic studies – right from the basic Karma Kaanda, Upaasana Kaanda to the Gnyaana Kaanda of the Upanishads.

If you are interested in changing your life COMPLETELY and are willing to clear your mind of all the unfounded beliefs you have been trained by your elders to blindly believe, please feel free to contact me.

I do not talk about miracles performed by some man in a cave, one with a long beard, or another with fuzzy hair. Out here, it is pure Advaita Vedanta – Nondual Vedanta, and the compact and best manual for attaining the highest understanding of the nondual, all-pervading SELF is the Srimad Bhagavad Gita.

A real shift to Vedanta is a complete change with no traces of illogical or irrational ideas sticking in the mind in the name of belief, ‘aastha’, religion, or whatever.

“Before you heal someone, ask him if he’s willing to give up the things that make him sick,” said Hippocrates. Just as baseless beliefs can be likened to mental diseases, one must be willing to abandon them to achieve true healing and enlightenment. Therefore, start with a clean slate.

SBG 4:38 Shri Krishna says: “There is certainly nothing more purifying than knowledge. He who is perfect in Yoga finds it in the Self in due course of time.”

Does Choosing Superstition Over Spiritual Evolution Cause Man’s Suffering?

Who or what is it that causes suffering?

Shattering Illusions: The Rational and Logical Path to Spiritual Enlightenment

In this enlightening video, we delve into the profound teachings of Krishna as presented in Shloka 13.4 or 13.5 of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita. Krishna emphasises that the truth is articulated through Vedic hymns and the Brahmasutras with reason and logic, leaving no room for blind belief or unquestioned acceptance.

Explore why genuine understanding and research are vital for spiritual growth. Watch this video titled “No Blind Belief but Reason and Logic” (Video 93 of the Hundred Logos Calls series) to gain insights into the importance of questioning and seeking knowledge.

Religious divisions often stem from differing beliefs, yet the Srimad Bhagavad Gita transcends such systems by not enforcing or even recommending blind belief. Krishna encourages reflective thinking and personal choice, urging us to seek deeper wisdom and live with a sense of duty, free from attachment.

Explore how spiritual evolution is about acquiring true knowledge, not performing meaningless rituals. Learn to apply the teachings of Vedanta to your life for genuine transformation.

Embrace the wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita and start your journey towards spiritual evolution.

Stay blessed.

Jai Shri Krishna.

Free Downloads – Quick Reference Shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita

Shlokas for different situations

I am happy to share with you, six insightful and transformative downloadable PDFs, each addressing a crucial aspect of personal growth and spiritual development. These resources are designed to help you navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace:

  1. Krishna: The Divine Father and Mother – Explore Krishna’s nurturing and protective aspects, embodying both paternal and maternal love.
  2. KILL Fear and Anger – Learn practical techniques to overcome fear and anger, transforming these negative emotions into sources of strength.
  3. Remove Demotivation – Discover effective strategies to reignite your passion and drive, helping you stay motivated in all aspects of life.
  4. Handling Temptation – Gain insights into resisting temptations and making choices that align with your highest values and goals.
  5. Fighting Laziness – Equip yourself with tools and tips to combat laziness and cultivate a proactive and energetic mindset.
  6. How to Become Dear to Krishna? – Uncover the steps and practices to deepen your relationship with Krishna, fostering a sense of closeness and devotion.

Download these PDFs now to embark on a journey of self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment.

The Curse of Duality

Take to Sheer and Pure Vedanta and BE FREE

* This is a post on Substack. Please note that pledging support for the newsletter is only optional. Subscribing to my Substack does not cost anything!

Srimad Bhagavad Gita 7:03 presents a profound insight: “Out of thousands of men, hardly one tries to achieve perfection in Self-realisation…and among those who do achieve Self-realisation, there is hardly one who truly knows Me.” This Shloka highlights the rarity of individuals who question, seek understanding, and reject unfounded beliefs.

Influenced by organised religions and personality cults, the concept of duality has entrenched itself in the minds of many Indians and those of Indian origin. This post aims to clarify that Vedanta transcends mere belief systems. For that matter,…READ ON SUBSTACK

‘The Curse of Duality’ on Substack

 

The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering’

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The Greatest Gift to Yourself for 2024 and the Future

The Bhaja Govindam Song – Sanskrit Text, Transliteration, and English Translation

Shri Adi Shankaracharya

Aum Shri Gurubhyo Namaha

Introducing the Bhaja Govindam Song: A Code for Responsible Living

Have you ever wondered about the true meaning behind the captivating Bhaja Govindam song? Often recited and sung without understanding, this song holds profound wisdom that transcends mere prayer.

In my latest video, I delve deep into the essence of Bhaja Govindam, offering an English translation that unlocks the hidden messages within each Shloka. Additionally, I provide a PDF file containing the original Sanskrit Shlokas, transliteration, and translation for those who wish to explore further.

Contrary to popular belief, Bhaja Govindam is not exactly a conventional prayer song. It begins with the bold declaration, “O Fool,” setting the tone for a profound exploration of life’s responsibilities and truths. This song serves as a code for responsible living, urging individuals to shed ignorance and false beliefs.

In the video, I discuss how Shri Adi Shankara categorised his works into three groups, each tailored for individuals at different levels of understanding. However, throughout his teachings, Shankaracharya emphasises the importance of attaining SELF-knowledge (Atmagnyaana) and dispelling ignorance.

Moreover, I highlight the significance of gaining clarity of mind through understanding Vedanta, rather than blindly adhering to rituals and rites. In today’s world, where external influences seek to sway individuals from their spiritual path, it is crucial to grasp the essence of Vedantic teachings.

If you haven’t yet acquired my latest work, titled ‘The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering,’ please do so at your earliest convenience. The wisdom gained from exploring this song along with one or two reads of my book will undoubtedly bring clarity to your mind, leading to a peaceful, enjoyable, stress-free, calm, enriching, and fulfilling life.

The Ever-Relevant Gita: A Present-Day Rendering’

FREE PROMO CODES: LIMITED OFFER

The Greatest Gift to Yourself for 2024 and the Future

BhajaGovindam #VedantaWisdom #AdiShankara #SelfKnowledge #SpiritualJourney

Bhaja Govindam, Vedanta Wisdom, Adi Shankara, Self Knowledge, Spiritual Journey

Embracing Compassionate Living: A Journey Towards Veganism

Voices of the Voiceless – The Power of Ethical Eating

Dear Friends,

I’d like to share a short poem of mine, which I have used in a video, that delves deep into the profound impact of our food choices on animals, our health, and the planet. It is a journey towards compassionate living, exploring the magical power of embracing a plant-based lifestyle.