Thinking Bhakti

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. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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

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

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

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

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

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 Satguru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 someone’s spiritual progress is not solely how much they love God but also how well they have mastered their mind. Discover how you can become the master of your mind by Swami Revatikaanta. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 understanding of the true meaning of the law of attraction. Guest: Ameyatma Das Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 mystery cannot be fully captured in words. Guests: Rishi Sahadev and Mayuran Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 Advaita Vedānta is often mischaracterized or oversimplified, drawing on the perspectives of saints from different traditions and their experiences of reality. The concept of Vaikuṇṭha on Earth will be examined, along with a deeper analysis of the philosophy of Paramahamsa Vishwananda as well the nature of bhakti and grace. Guests: Rishi Vrishaparvaananda and Mayuran Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 incarnations with direct access to this truth. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 love of God. Follow Nikunja: http://linktr.ee/NIKUNJA Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 and Sri Srimad Bhaktivedanta Narayana Goswami Maharaj. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 daily spiritual experiences, giving seekers and devotees a glimpse of the divine. About the guest: Rishi Aditya was born in Argentina and met Guruji in 2017. He moved to Shree Peetha Nilaya Ashram in Germany and became a monk. After four years as a brahmachari, he was initiated as a Rishi. A passionate seeker of stories and miracles related to Paramahamsa Vishwananda, he has recorded over 300 testimonials of Paramahamsa Vishwananda's divinity since 2019. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

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 each other. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial