COMMENTARIES

Ashtavakra Gita

One of the most enlightening discourses on the nature of reality.

What is Ashtavakra Gita

The Ashtavakra Gita illuminates an ancient conversation between the sage Ashtavakra and Janaka, a king with both worldly responsibilities and deep spiritual questioning about the nature of reality. “What is real?” Janaka asks. So begins one of the most unique conversations to ever take place on this planet, as Ashtavakra takes Janaka by the hand and leads him step by step into deeper levels of understanding until enlightenment dawns.

Commentary by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

In a series of 33 talks, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar shares, step by step, how King Janaka is taken to deeper levels of understanding and how this knowledge can be applied to your own life. The commentary unlocks this ancient mystical scripture so that it can come alive in our modern lives.

The Ashtavakra Gita examines the mind, ego, conflict, and the self with the unparalleled insight and depth that only a master can offer. His Holiness skillfully weaves together ancient knowledge, classic stories, and practical wisdom into captivating talks, making the Ashtavakra Gita an invaluable tool and companion for the earnest seeker of truth.

EXCERPTS FROM GURUDEV'S COMMENTARY

“In your true nature, you are free the moment you see it’s not in you. If you have a pain, observe it’s happening in the body. If there is tightness or joy in your mind, observe that it is tight, sad, unhappy or happy. Just observe that you are not enjoying, and it is happening elsewhere, as though it is happening elsewhere.” Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
“If even the slightest desire to be free has arisen in you, you should pat yourself on the back, you are very lucky. Billions of lives on this planet don’t have this blessing. They do not even live. They exist, die and dissolve. They are not bored. Even if they are bored, they’re bored with something very small. A little change can make them very comfortable again. So, blessed are those who get bored!” Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
“Do not hurt anyone with your speech, for the Divine dwells in every heart.” Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
WHAT READERS SAY

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Ashtavakra Gita Wisdom Groups

There is a great benefit to watching Ashtavakra Gita in person with a group. Through the group sharing the meaning of the knowledge unfolds and can be looked at through multiple viewpoints. The DVDs of Gurudev’s Commentaries are generally watched in sets of 11 (there are 33 in total), with one videos are watched per week, giving time for integration and reflection. During each knowledge session you will watch a video talk and there will be a discussion of the knowledge with the group. You will have fun and get to know the other participants.