Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta for Everyday Living

Gautamji responds to students’ questions on the qualities of a Yogi, the three paths to salvation, and the path of Dharma. He also discusses the role of physical asanas and pranayama in spiritual growth, how to set healthy boundaries with materialism, and how Vedanta offers guidance in overcoming collective fear and anxiety. Gautamji explains that the concluding 18 verses of Chapter 2 present the portrait of the perfect human being — the most celebrated, uplifting, and divine section of the Gita. He explores what it takes to attain this state: remaining calm and blissful even in moments of extreme agitation, and acting with wisdom at all times. Gautamji also delves into Arjuna’s choice of words when asking Lord Krishna about the qualities of such a perfected soul. More about the podcast: The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life. In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: ⁠www.VedantaUSA.org⁠To get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: ⁠https://a.co/d/j5SylPC⁠Find us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

Gautamji Answers Questions from StudentsIn this episode, Gautamji provides guidance on identifying and overcoming selfishness, a required first step on any spiritual path. He also explains how the practice of tapas or withdrawal is essential for the pursuit of higher goals, instead of dissipating energy in self-centered activities which always result in agitation and sorrow.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

In this podcast, Gautamji explains why the wise choose the path of knowledge, anchoring their goal in Self-realization. He outlines the spiritual path journey, where growth becomes possible only when effort is guided by true understanding. When one gains the knowledge to rise above attachment—by renouncing the fruits of action—higher values naturally emerge. Acting upon these values, the lower desires gradually fall away. Gautamji explains that as the intellect crosses the mire of delusion, one becomes dispassionate to the external pull of the senses. This is a stage of inner clarity and deep spiritual maturity where wisdom replaces dependence on external knowledge.More about the podcast: The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life. In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: ⁠www.VedantaUSA.org⁠To get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: ⁠https://a.co/d/j5SylPC⁠Find us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

In this podcast, Gautamji clarifies the common misunderstanding that spirituality implies inaction. This misinterpretation has led many to become passive and disengaged from purposeful living. Gautamji explains how selfish and desire-driven actions agitate the mind and lead to wretchedness. The ever-craving mind is likened to an unquenchable fire as external pursuits only intensify this unrest. Gautamji reiterates that true peace comes from turning inward and realizing the Self. Dedicating actions to a higher purpose elevates one, while chasing only material rewards diminishes one's dignity.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

In this podcast, Gautamji emphasizes the importance of continuing to act as long as the body and mind are capable. Action generates energy and dynamism, but it must be free from selfish motives. He explains that Sattvic action—selfless, purposeful action performed for a higher goal—leads to both inner peace and outer prosperity. Gautamji clarifies that action is the cause and success is merely its effect. Yet, many today seek success without effort. The prevailing attitude seems to be one of maximum taking and minimal giving.True yoga lies in evenness of action. As Lord Krishna advises Arjuna in verse 48, one must remain steadfast in yoga, performing one’s duties with equanimity in both success and failure. He also explains that the term Yoga encompasses three key paths: Karma Yoga (the path of action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge). Physical fitness is considered an external or outer limb of this broader practice.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

In this podcast, Gautamji explains that the Vedas address the three gunas—the fundamental qualities or attributes of the mind: tamas (inertia or ignorance), rajas (ego-driven activity), and sattva (purity, clarity, and balance). Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to transcend these gunas, urging him to rise beyond their influence. As one progresses toward higher states of purity, they begin to move beyond the dualities of life—the pairs of opposites. Ultimately, the goal is to rise above all three gunas and attain the fourth state of consciousness, which lies beyond mental fluctuations. This encapsulates the journey and overall vision of a truly spiritual person.Gautamji continues to explain verse 47, one of the most famous verses in the Gita which lays the basis for right action.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

Gautamji Answers Questions from StudentsIn this episode, Gautamji discusses the nature of right action and why it is essential to perform such actions. He emphasizes that practicing karma yoga, or performing right action without attachment, is a vital discipline for anyone on the spiritual path. Understanding the components of right action is therefore crucial for spiritual growth.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

Gautamji Answers Questions from StudentsIn this podcast, Gautamji responds to a student’s question on Karmakanda. He explains the structure of the Vedas, highlighting the four sections within (Mantra, Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishads). Gautamji points out how many people today have become overly focused on Karmakanda—rituals, ceremonies, and prayers—while completely neglecting Jnanakanda, the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and self-inquiry. He also addresses why the Upanishads, which represent the highest knowledge, are placed at the end of the Vedas and not at the beginning. Finally, he observes that when people are driven by myriad desires, they often misuse religion as a tool to fulfill selfish interests, rather than using it for genuine spiritual growth.More about the podcast:The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life.In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: www.VedantaUSA.orgTo get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: https://a.co/d/j5SylPCFind us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

In this podcast, Gautamji explains how people across the world follow rituals that often have little to do with true spirituality. Many approach religion with a self-centered mindset, believing that by performing these rituals, their personal desires will be fulfilled. Their focus is not on enlightenment or inner growth. Gautamji reiterates that the true purpose of spiritual knowledge is to help individuals grow and evolve as human beings, not to serve material or sensual gratifications. He clarifies that rituals should serve as reminders—not means to an end—that our ultimate purpose is to return to the Self, to seek deeper understanding and inner transformation. More about the podcast: The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that contains the universal wisdom of life applicable to all human beings. This sacred scripture explains how one can navigate life's complexities, dilemmas, and challenges and ultimately find true happiness and purpose in life. In this podcast series, Gautamji takes listeners through a verse-by-verse study of the Bhagavad Gita, providing actionable insights and reflections. He explains how to apply the Gita's teachings to enhance our personal growth, decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being. Additionally, he addresses student questions on the Gita and Vedanta in dedicated Q&A episodes. © Gautam JainTo learn more about our weekly lectures visit: ⁠www.VedantaUSA.org⁠To get the verse by verse commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Swami A. Parthasarathy: ⁠https://a.co/d/j5SylPC⁠Find us on:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vedantausaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedanta_usa/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLYv-xlRm5iIiMdnR626_QQTwitter: https://twitter.com/vedantausa

Gautamji dives into the difference between the scattered mind and the focused intellect, offering insights on how to act without desire. He emphasizes that true fulfillment arises from selfless sacrifice. Practical tips on maintaining focus during spiritual learning are also provided, highlighting the importance of discipline and a distraction-free environment. Additionally, he discusses the benefits of an ideal teaching setting, showcasing how in-person interactions can enhance understanding and engagement.