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.

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

Watch an Introduction