The History & Evolution of Yoga | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP35
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.The episode also touches on the challenges of navigating the modern yoga landscape, where the practice has often been stripped of its spiritual roots. The importance of Shaktipat (the divine initiation) in Atma Kriya is emphasized, showing how grace and divine connection are integral to truly understanding yoga. Ultimately, the conversation underscores that yoga, at its core, is about a relationship with the divine, not just physical outcomes, and invites listeners to explore different forms of yoga that go beyond the surface, leading to a deeper understanding and connection with God.Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial
--------
1:38:03
The Need to Say No | Swami Revatikaanta
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 to Sri Hari.Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial
--------
20:08
How Did Bhakti Marga Begin? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP34
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 bring his students to God?We also explore the balance between independence and dependence, as well as the true meaning of service to God—something Paartha deeply sought to understand.Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial
--------
1:18:17
Karma, Caste & Hindu Proselytisation - Analyzing Cliffe & Stuart Knechtle Part 2
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 method of debate valid? Is it a means of discovering truth, or merely a tool for winning over the audience?Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial
--------
28:56
Making the Ramayana a Reality - Back to Ayodhya Book Launch | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP33
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 Sita is the dynamic that plays between God and the soul. Rama is the incarnation of the highest Divinity, He is the Master, while Sita is the soul.About the author and guest: Mayuran Senthilnathan is the author of Avatars of the Master and The Hypocrite Within. He is a senior teacher of philosophy for Bhakti Marga. His particular passion lies in analysing Hindu scripture and sharing the wisdom that has been imbibed through his Master,Paramahamsa Vishwananda.Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial
Welcome to 'Thinking Bhakti', the podcast where wisdom from the bhakti tradition meets modern issues! Whether you're a dedicated Vaishnava, a spiritual seeker, or just curious about the intersection of faith and current affairs, 'Thinking Bhakti' offers insightful discussions that resonate with those seeking for deeper meaning in our complex world. Swami Revatikaanta, a long-term disciple of Paramahamsa Vishwananda, is a monk and a prolific public speaker with almost two decade’s worth of experience. With his sharp intellect and straightforward approach, get ready for refreshingly honest conversations on spiritual matters. Join Swamjii and amazing guests as they explore today's intellectual challenges through the enlightening lens of Paramahamsa Vishwananda's teachings.
New Zealand