

Wisdom of the Sages
Raghunath Cappo & Kaustubha Das
Truths about life from the timeless wisdom of the Bhakti-yoga tradition - fun, relevant, and deep. Learn about dharma, yoga, bhakti, and how it relates to all the basic questions of life. This show is about how to live your best life, let go of the external distractions, and uncover the spiritual happiness that lies within the heart as the true nature of the soul.
Raghunath and Kaustubha's connection goes back to their teens in the New York Hardcore Punk Scene of the early 80s, through serving together as Bhakti-yogi monks in the 90's, to sharing their experiences in the world of yoga in the 21st century.
Raghunath and Kaustubha's connection goes back to their teens in the New York Hardcore Punk Scene of the early 80s, through serving together as Bhakti-yogi monks in the 90's, to sharing their experiences in the world of yoga in the 21st century.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 15, 2025 • 56min
1518: The Arrest of Bali: A Story of Surrender
What happens when faith is tested to its limits? In this episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack the captivating story of Bali Maharaja’s encounter with Lord Vamanadeva. Stripped of his possessions, challenged on his word, and bound by the Supreme Lord, Bali Maharaja’s apparent downfall reveals a higher truth about surrender, integrity, and spiritual liberation. Key Insights: ✨ Why Bali’s word of honor mattered more than his kingdom or his life. ✨ The divine plan behind Bali’s “arrest” and how it became his ultimate blessing. ✨ The symbolic power of Vamanadeva’s giant steps and their impact on universal harmony. Discover how Bali Maharaja’s unwavering devotion transforms an apparent defeat into one of the greatest triumphs of Bhakti Yoga. This story isn’t just about faith—it’s about faith under fire and the transcendental rewards of complete surrender to God’s will. 🌟 Tune in and explore this timeless lesson from the Srimad Bhagavatam! 🎧 Subscribe to join thousands worldwide on the transformative path of Bhakti. #BaliMaharaja #VamanaAvatar #BhaktiYoga #SurrenderToGod #SpiritualJourney Check out the new app at https://apps.apple.com/app/id6670209189 Or on Android at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wots.wisdom_of_the_sages SB 8.21.1-34 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 14, 2025 • 57min
1517: Territorialism & Its Spiritual Solution
Modern psychology meets ancient wisdom in this thought-provoking episode of Wisdom of the Sages which asks, “Why do we cling to that which was never truly ours?” Join Raghunath and Kaustubha as they dive into intriguing parallels between the Ultimatum Game—a groundbreaking behavioral economics experiment—and the timeless teachings of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam. Explore how Bali Maharaja’s surrender to Lord Vāmanadeva reveals the illusory nature of territorial attachments and provides a new perspective to see a deeper truth: nothing in this world truly belongs to us. ✨ Key Takeaways: • What the Ultimatum Game teaches us about fairness, ego, and self-defeating decisions. • Bali Maharaja’s awe-inspiring vision of Lord Vishnu’s universal form. How spiritual wisdom can elevate our thinking and free us from endless conflict. Kaustubha shares about the time he and his wife were turned away at a famous Temple in South India for not being born “Hindu”. 🎧 Don’t miss this deep dive into Bhakti philosophy and its practical relevance in today’s world! Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands worldwide on the path of Bhakti. 📢 Watch now! #Territorialism #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #SurrenderToGod SB 8.20.22-34 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 13, 2025 • 56min
1516: Vishnu's Universal Form: An Infinite Circle Whose Center is Everywhere
“God is an infinite circle whose center is everywhere and circumference nowhere.” – Nicholas of Cusa What does it mean for God to exist both within everything and beyond everything at the same time? In this riveting episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha delve into the paradoxical nature of the divine, the various Universal Forms of Vishnu and the remarkable transformation of Bali Mahārāja—a so-called demon who became a pure bhakti yogi. Witness how Bali surrendered everything, even defying his own guru, to enter the world of pure devotion. Key Highlights: ✨ The mystery of God’s universal form: how everything is within Him, yet He is beyond it all. ✨ Bali Mahārāja’s journey from conqueror of worlds to surrendered devotee. ✨ Krishna serves as the messenger of the Pandavas and blows everyones mind ✨ What Bali’s bhakti reveals about stepping out of the world of taking into the world of giving. ✨ Why the divine plan is always unfolding—even when it feels incomprehensible. This episode brings the teachings of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam to life, exploring the paradox of divine immanence and transcendence through Bali’s ultimate act of surrender. 🎧 Watch now and uncover the cosmic truths of Bhakti Yoga. #BhaktiYoga #UniversalForm #SurrenderToGod #WisdomOfTheSages #InfiniteCircle SB 8.20.18-21 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 12, 2025 • 56min
1515: Awakening the Soul: Inspiring Encounters with the Path of Bhakti
What happens when individuals from all walks of life immerse themselves in the transformative power of yoga, kirtan, and spiritual philosophy? In this episode of Wisdom of the Sages, hear firsthand accounts from participants of the Bhakti Yoga Teacher Training with the Wisdom of the Sages team at the Govardhan Eco Village. From overcoming substance use, embracing inner joy, and rewiring the mind, to finding deep purpose through chanting and community, these stories will leave you inspired to look within. ✨ A musician reconnects with ancient drumming and discovers his past life through sacred kirtan. ✨ A young professional trades corporate life for spiritual fulfillment, guided by the wisdom of Hanuman and the Bhagavad-gītā. ✨ A cancer survivor finds hope and light, saying, “I was learning how to die—now I’m learning how to live.” ✨ Yoga teachers and seekers embrace the playful, joyous essence of Krishna consciousness. Discover how these individuals found clarity, connection, and courage to transform their lives, proving that Bhakti yoga is not just a philosophy—it’s a path to boundless joy and spiritual liberation. 🌟 Be part of this vibrant global community. Subscribe for daily episodes and join the transformative journey of Bhakti! 🎧 Watch now and awaken your inner wisdom. #BhaktiYoga #KirtanAcademy #YogaTeacherTraining #GovardhanEcoVillage #SpiritualAwakening ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 11, 2025 • 1h 1min
1514: Raghunath at 59: A Tribute to a Bhakti Trailblazer
On the occasion of Raghunath’s 59th birthday Kaustubha reflects on decades of friendship and Raghunath’s extraordinary impact on the world of Bhakti yoga. From the rebellious stages of the hardcore punk scene to leading life-changing pilgrimages to India, to the Wisdom of the Sages podcast, Kaustubha shares that Raghunath’s journey is a testament to courage, devotion, and an unshakable mission to share divine love. Key Highlights: ✨ From punk rock to spiritual rockstar: how Raghunath fearlessly shared Bhakti with the world. ✨ The stages of the friendship of Raghunath and Kaustubha, both very different, yet sharing so much in common. ✨ The challenges of being a pioneer in bridging modern culture and ancient wisdom. ✨ Stories of transformation: inspiring thousands through yoga, kirtan, and community. This episode is a celebration of a life lived with passion, purpose, and an unwavering dedication to service. Join us to honor a Bhakti trailblazer and reflect on what it means to leave a legacy of love. 🌟 Subscribe to Wisdom of the Sages for daily inspiration and join our global community of seekers. 🎧 Tune in now! #Raghunath #BhaktiYoga #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualJourney ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 10, 2025 • 57min
1513: Cosmic Mysteries, Radical Dharma & the Bag of Karmic Seeds
Prepare to challenge your perception of reality in this electrifying episode of Wisdom of the Sages. What connects Einstein’s fascination with mystery, Bali Maharaj’s unwavering surrender, and the karmic seeds we all carry? Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the profound intersections of science, spirituality, and the timeless teachings of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam. Key Highlights: ✨ The awe-inspiring emotion of mystery – Einstein’s perspective on true art and science. ✨ Bali Maharaj’s radical dharma: surrendering everything and standing firm in truth. ✨ Decoding the “bag of karmic seeds” – understanding karma beyond blame and judgment. ✨ Trusting the sages: taking baby steps toward unraveling life’s deepest mysteries. Discover how embracing divine mystery, surrender, and spiritual discipline can transform the way you view life and its challenges. Why not take the leap into the Bhakti experiment and witness the change? 🌟 Join us on this journey of cosmic wonder and spiritual exploration. 🎧 Watch now and subscribe! #CosmicMysteries #RadicalDharma #KarmicSeeds #BhaktiWisdom SB 8.20.8-17 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 8, 2025 • 59min
1512: Fortune Favors the Bold: A Bhakti Perspective
Courage guided by dharma is the topic of this captivating episode of Wisdom of the Sages. Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the the story of Bali Mahārāja, who offered the entire universe (and more!) to the divine, and uncover parallels with Jatāyu’s fearless devotion, King Shibi’s ultimate sacrifice, and the Russian bhaktas who risked it all under Soviet rule. 🔥 Key Takeaways: ✨ “Fortune favors the bold”—what this ancient mantra really means for spiritual seekers. ✨ How risking for Krishna transforms fear into spiritual fortune. ✨ “I think Krishna Saved You.” “He always does.” 🔑 Learn how the wise feel it’s better to willingly give something up for a noble cause than to lose it inevitably through time.” 🌟 Subscribe to Wisdom of the Sages for daily wisdom and join a global community of seekers embracing bold and transformative bhakti yoga. 🎧 Watch now and explore: #BoldnessInBhakti #BhaktiYogaStories #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualCourage #WisdomoftheSages SB 8.20.1-7 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 7, 2025 • 51min
1511: Sometimes Ya Gotta Step Up: Rising to Challenges on the Spiritual Path
Embracing sacrifice and breaking out of comfort zones. In this very spontaneous episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha discuss how life will occasionally tap us on the shoulder and call us to step up - a moment which may be our life’s “finest hour”. Each of us will face pivotal moments on our spiritual path where we must rise to the challenge. Through personal stories of vulnerability and determination, they share how taking that leap can lead to profound transformation and spiritual growth. 🌟 Highlights of the Episode: ✨ Inspiring and hilarious real-life stories of stepping into the unknown, from leaving careers to committing fully to bhakti yoga. ✨ What a tragedy if that moment finds us unprepared or unwilling. ✨ The power of surrender: how Krishna tests our devotion and rewards our courage with spiritual empowerment. ✨ Breaking free from fear and ego to embrace your higher calling. This episode is a call to action for anyone seeking a life of deeper purpose and meaning. Tune in to reflect on your own “finest hour” and the opportunities life presents to grow through courage and devotion. 🌸 Subscribe for daily inspiration and join a global community on the journey of spiritual awakening. 🎧 Watch now! #RiseToTheChallenge #SpiritualCourage #BhaktiYoga #KrishnaConsciousness #WisdomOfTheSages ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 6, 2025 • 55min
1510: Surrender: How Losing Everything Can Mean Gaining the Ultimate
What if losing it all was the only way to gain everything? In this episode of Wisdom of the Sages, we unravel the profound truths of surrendering to the divine plan, even when it seems to defy logic. Through the timeless story of Bali Mahārāja from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, we explore how honesty, sacrifice, and faith in a higher purpose lead to unimaginable spiritual wealth. ✨ Why surrendering to the divine can unlock limitless potential. ✨ The subtle dangers of dishonesty, even when it feels justified. ✨ How dissatisfaction weakens our spiritual power, while contentment fuels our inner fire. Join Raghunath and Kaustubha as they navigate the inspiring lessons of Bali Mahārāja’s unwavering faith, and uncover how embracing truth and surrender empowers a bhakti yogi’s journey to self-realization. 🎧 Watch or Listen now and awaken your spiritual insight! 🌟 Like, subscribe, and share with seekers on the path of divine truth. #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualPower #Contentment #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam SB 8.19.26-43 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Jan 5, 2025 • 58min
1509: Finding Meaning - A Journey from Skepticism to Faith / An Interview with Visakha Dasi
In this conversation, Raghunath and Visakha Dasi explore the journey of spirituality, focusing on her transformation from atheism to devotion within the Hare Krishna movement. They discuss her early life, the impact of her upbringing, and the profound experiences that led her to embrace a spiritual path. The conversation highlights the importance of community, personal growth, and the power of association with enlightened individuals. This conversation explores the transformative experiences of individuals within the Hare Krishna movement, focusing on their journeys of identity, faith, and community. Visakha also reflects on her time with Prabhupada, the founder of the movement, and share insights about the cultural contrasts between Western materialism and the spiritual fulfillment found in places like Vrindavan. They discuss the challenges faced by female devotees, the legacy of Prabhupada, and the significance of living a life dedicated to spiritual practice. Find more about Visakha Dasi and her books at https://ourspiritualjourney.com ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages


