Wisdom of the Sages
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.
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1582: Terminal Diagnosis, Timeless Devotion: A Yogi’s Final Chapter
04/23/2025
1582: Terminal Diagnosis, Timeless Devotion: A Yogi’s Final Chapter
How do decades of spiritual practice shape your heart when death comes knocking? In this powerful episode, we hear from our longtime friend Yasso who, after forty years of devotion, is now facing terminal illness with stunning clarity and peace. What makes this conversation especially moving is how Yasso’s fearless, attitude of gratitude so closely mirrors the timeless wisdom of Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, where the dying King Parīkṣit embraces his final days with devotion, humility, and total absorption in the divine. Also in this episode: the epic homecoming of Lord Ram and the tear-jerking reunion with his brother Bharat, whose 14 years of radical simplicity (cow urine barley, anyone?) reflect the deepest brotherly devotion—zero envy, all love. And we also explore how devotional art can lift consciousness, using a vivid verse from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam as our canvas. This one goes deep—real life, real death, and real bhakti. Key Highlights: * A rare window into how a bhakti yogi prepares to leave this world * Lord Ram returns to Ayodhya—no one has ever waved a chadar with more love * No envy, no ego—just love: the bond between Ram and Bharat * Why Krishna art > overpriced splatter art * Chant Hare Krishna and don’t criticize. Boom. That’s it. 🎧 Tune in for sacred wisdom, raw honesty, and a few good laughs with Raghunath & Kaustubha. #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #FacingDeath #SpiritualJourney #WisdomOfTheSages #LordRam #Ramayana #HareKrishna #DevotionalArt #TerminalIllness #YogiWisdom #KrishnaConsciousness ********************************************************************* 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
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1581: Rethinking Empowerment: Yoga Wisdom on Commitment vs. Independence
04/22/2025
1581: Rethinking Empowerment: Yoga Wisdom on Commitment vs. Independence
Have you ever wondered whether the modern narrative of empowerment is missing something essential? We live in a world where empowerment is often defined as the independent freedom to do as we please. But in this thought-provoking episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore a radically different idea—drawn from the bhakti-yoga tradition—that deep commitment can be a source of supernatural strength. Sītā, whose unwavering integrity and loyalty ultimately crushed the might of Ravana, is more than a mythological figure—she’s a spiritual archetype. This episode challenges the assumption that power comes from autonomy, and offers a vision of strength rooted in devotion, integrity, and focus. Whether it’s to a person, a principle, or the Divine, commitment—according to the Bhakti tradition—isn’t weakness. It’s where real empowerment begins. Key Highlights: * The Bhagavatam doesn’t just expose Ravana—it holds up a mirror to our modern cravings * Why unexamined desire can lead to destruction—even when you “have it all” * “Attractive, but not what I need”—the mantra that builds inner strength * The supernatural force of Sītā’s chastity and the deeper meaning of loyalty * A masculine path to power that isn’t about suppression, but sacred focus * Speaking truth to power—without hostility or ego * Raghu & Kaustubha imagine what it would it be like seeing Hanuman flying in the first class cabin 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands on the transformative path of bhakti. This isn’t just a lesson from ancient scripture—it’s a challenge to reimagine what real strength looks like in our lives today. 🎧 Tune in now and join thousands on the journey of living wisdom. #YogaWisdom #BhaktiYoga #Empowerment #CommitmentOverFreedom #SrimadBhagavatam #Ravana #Sita #InnerStrength #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
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1580: Ravana vs. Hanuman: How to Approach the Divine Feminine & Not Get Smoked
04/21/2025
1580: Ravana vs. Hanuman: How to Approach the Divine Feminine & Not Get Smoked
The Ramayana doesn’t just tell an ancient story—it reveals eternal truths. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore one of the most profound contrasts in the epic: how Ravana and Hanuman each approach Sita. What unfolds is not just mythological drama—it’s a powerful spiritual teaching. Sita is the personification of good fortune herself. In bhakti wisdom, how we approach her—whether with reverence and devotion or with a mood of exploitation—determines the auspiciousness or inauspiciousness that flows though our lives. This isn’t just about Sita and Ravana. It’s about all of us and the world around us. And yes, the Pope gets a shout-out. So do monkeys with torches. Key Highlights: * Ravana, Hanuman, and the spiritual do’s and don’ts of divine energy * Why auspiciousness isn’t random—it’s relational * The Pope, Easter, and holy humility * Monkeys vs. modern weapons: Why the jungle army wins * The arc of the moral universe is long—but don’t worry, zoom out * Why Sita’s curse beat Ravana’s black magic 🎧 Tune in for timeless wisdom, epic storytelling, and spiritual depth—with just enough monkey mischief to keep it fun. 📿 Subscribe and join the daily pilgrimage of the heart. #BhaktiWisdom #GoddessOfFortune #RamayanaTruths #JusticeAndKarma #SrimadBhagavatam #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualTransformation #HanumanPower ********************************************************************* 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
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1579: Is Spiritual Truth Beyond Words? | Q&A Volume 271
04/20/2025
1579: Is Spiritual Truth Beyond Words? | Q&A Volume 271
Is trying to understand spiritual truth a futile task? Is it all beyond words and beyond the logical understanding of the human mind? In this Q&A episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Kaustubha Das, with guest host Kishori Gopi, takes on one of the deepest questions of spiritual life—whether the ultimate reality can be known, described, or even spoken of. Drawing from the ancient dialectic between Advaita Vedanta and Bhakti Vedanta, they explore how the Absolute is perceived across different schools of Indian philosophy, and whether Krishna’s teachings are meant to be understood—or simply surrendered to. Then, things get bold and existential: If we’re not the body or the mind… why not just commit suicide? This intense question opens the door to a profound discussion on karma, the soul’s journey, and why trying to “opt out” is ill advised. Morgan Freeman shows up. So does Groundhog Day. Somehow it all makes sense. Key Highlights * The Bhakti perspective: Krishna can be understood—and described—in rich detail * How Shankara’s “neti neti” approach led to the idea of the indescribable Absolute * Karma as a cosmic reformatory system * Why suicide doesn’t break the cycle—just moves it like a whack-a-mole * What Newton might say about karma (and why we’re not totally convinced) * “They muddy the waters to make them seem deep.” — Nietzsche, and also Kaustubha 🔥 🌟 Subscribe for daily inspiration and join a global community exploring life’s most important questions through the lens of ancient yoga wisdom. 🎧 Listen now. Think deeply. Laugh as well. #VedantaQandA #BhaktiYoga #KarmaExplained #BeyondWords #SpiritualPhilosophy #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam #NetiNeti #MorganFreemanOnVedanta ********************************************************************* 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
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1578: Fear of Loss is a Path to the Dark Side
04/17/2025
1578: Fear of Loss is a Path to the Dark Side
Loss comes for everyone—but the Bhakti yogi faces it not with fear, but with training, trust, and transcendence. In this powerful episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack how the wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam prepares us for the moments that shake our identity, strip our attachments, and invite us into deeper surrender. From philosophical insight to real-life stories, they reveal how detachment isn’t cold or passive—it’s the soul’s doorway to freedom. Key Highlights: * “Train yourself to let go of everything you fear to lose.” — Yoda (Bhakti approves.) * Why loss is not punishment—but a spiritual upgrade in disguise. * Chest-waxing and ego-stripping: a painful but necessary metaphor for spiritual growth. * The man who thought his wealth could buy him a free pass at the barber shop—and what that reveals about false identity. * What it means to live as if nothing is yours, and love as if everything is. * The yogi’s mindset: clarity in chaos, faith in the face of death. 🎧 Tune in now and discover how the Bhakti tradition reframes loss as grace, grief as growth, and endings as the beginning of true connection. #LettingGo #FearOfLoss #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualTransformation #SrimadBhagavatam #EgoToEternity #YogaHumor #WisdomOfTheSages #BarberShopEgo #ChestWaxMetaphors ********************************************************************* 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
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1577: What is My Dharma? / Q&A Volume 270
04/15/2025
1577: What is My Dharma? / Q&A Volume 270
In this deep-dive Q&A episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Kaustuba Das and guest co-host Kishori Gopi explore one of life’s most profound questions: What is my purpose? Drawing from the teachings of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, the writings of Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura, and the ancient tradition of Vedānta, they unpack the layered meaning of dharma—from temporary duties to the soul’s eternal calling. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a yoga teacher, a parent, or simply navigating life’s changing roles, this conversation will challenge, inspire, and clarify your inner compass. Discover how your svadharma (individual calling) fits into a larger journey of evolution toward bhakti—the soul’s natural expression of love. Key Highlights: * The difference between temporary dharma and eternal dharma * Why success in life isn’t about achievement, but alignment * The secret purpose behind your everyday responsibilities * What the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam reveals about the highest truth 🎧 This episode is a must-listen for anyone reflecting on their place in the world and longing to connect with something deeper. 🌟 Subscribe for daily spiritual insights and join thousands on the transformative path of bhakti yoga. #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualAwakening #Dharma #VedantaWisdom #SrimadBhagavatam #WisdomOfTheSages #PurposeDrivenLife #YogaPhilosophy #VedicWisdom #SelfRealization #KarmaJnanaBhakti ********************************************************************* 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
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1576: You Can Have a Profound Spiritual Experience, Right Now / Q&A Volume 269
04/14/2025
1576: You Can Have a Profound Spiritual Experience, Right Now / Q&A Volume 269
This Q&A episode offers a bold reminder: a deep and transformational spiritual experience isn’t reserved for mystics in the mountains—it’s available to you right now, anywhere. Kaustubha and guest Co-host Kishori Gopi unpack the Bhagavad-gītā’s ancient key to overcoming seasonal depression, emotional heaviness, and the constant ups and downs of modern life: detachment from the shifting mind, and connection to the ever-radiant soul within. Learn how simply observing your thoughts and emotions—rather than identifying with them—is not just mindfulness, but a moment of true spiritual awakening. Also in this episode: * What the Gītā says about seasonal sadness and inner stability * The profound power of stepping back from the mind and witnessing the soul * How weather, darkness, and emotional struggle can become fuel for real growth * How to raise God-connected kids in challenging circumstances * Navigating Catholicism, Krishna bhakti Whether your long winter is literal or emotional—this episode will help you rediscover your luminosity and find clarity on how to guide others, especially your children, toward the same. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to access what’s already within you. #SpiritualExperienceNow #SeasonalDepression #BhagavadGitaWisdom #ParentingAndBhakti #Mindfulness #KrishnaConsciousness #BhaktiYoga #InnerPeace #SrimadBhagavatam #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
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1575: Please Don’t Feed the Demons: Ramayana & Our Own Hero’s Journey
04/10/2025
1575: Please Don’t Feed the Demons: Ramayana & Our Own Hero’s Journey
Every life holds a hidden epic. In this stirring episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unlock the timeless teachings of the Ramayana and the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam to reveal how Lord Ram’s divine story is far more than mythology—it’s a living guide for our own transformation. Alongside the insights of Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey, the sages explore what it truly means to conquer inner demons and rise to the occasion of your own sacred adventure. But this episode goes deeper than just inspiration. It offers a bold clarification of what līlā truly is—and what it’s not. It’s a common spiritual misstep to view the pain, confusion, and trauma of material life as brahman engaged in “divine play,” mistaking our suffering for the līlā of the Supreme. Raghunath and Kaustubha draw a clear line: true līlā is not the fractured experience of conditioned life, but the ecstatic, conscious, and love-saturated interactions of Krishna with His eternal energies—Ram and Sita, Radha and Krishna, Lakshman, Hanuman, and the gopīs, etc. To conflate the two is to miss the sweetness of bhakti, to remain trapped in illusion, and to miss the opportunity to enter into eternal līlā—the highest potential of the self. Key Highlights: * Why the Ramayana is more than story—it’s a training ground for the soul * The crucial difference between true līlā and conditioned suffering * Why Lord Ram left without resentment—and how we can too * How to starve the inner Ravana and awaken your inner Hanuman * What it really means to return from the forest with “boons” for the world Join us and rediscover your highest potential—not by pretending to be the hero, but by walking the sacred path of one who’s learning how to love. 🌟 Subscribe and walk the hero’s path with us, through ancient wisdom, daily insights, and the transformative power of bhakti. 🎧 Tune in now! #Ramayana #BhaktiYoga #HerosJourney #KrishnaLila #Vedanta #InnerDemons #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualPodcast #TrueLila #JosephCampbell #LordRam #SitaRam #SrimadBhagavatam SB 9.10.1-7 ********************************************************************* 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
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1574: How Yogis Train the Mind for the Ultimate Test
04/09/2025
1574: How Yogis Train the Mind for the Ultimate Test
“You Won’t Rise to the Occasion—You’ll Default to Your Training”. In this episode we explore how ancient yogic wisdom aligns with the discipline of elite athletes, soldiers, and spiritual seekers. Learn how the mind, when trained in remembrance and devotion, naturally turns toward the Divine—even at the moment of death. This episode is a clarion call to train your heart, shape your consciousness, and live with purpose so that when the test comes, you’re not grasping for last-minute wisdom—you’re simply doing what you’ve always done: remembering who you’ve been meditating on all along. Drawing from the timeless teachings of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, Kaustubha, and special guest Kishori Gopi dive deep into the life of King Katvanga, a warrior-king who turned his final moment into his finest moment—not by chance, but by a lifetime of conscious preparation. Key Highlights: * “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”—why your daily practice shapes your destiny * What King Katvanga teaches us about detachment, clarity, and the power of a single moment * How to build your spiritual default setting through consistent sādhanā * The Bhagavad-gītā’s teaching on death, remembrance, and ultimate transformation * Why even the devas admired a king who asked for no boon but truth 🎧 Don’t miss this episode that bridges warrior mindset, yogic philosophy, and bhakti devotion into a single, life-shifting meditation. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join the global bhakti movement. #BhaktiTraining #KingKatvanga #DefaultToYourTraining #SrimadBhagavatam #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualDiscipline #YogaOfDeath #RememberKrishna #BhaktiYoga #TrainTheMind #VedantaWisdom #FinalMoment #ConsciousLiving #SādhanāLifestyle SB 9.9.41-49 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1573: Seeing the Sacred Woven Through Everything
04/07/2025
1573: Seeing the Sacred Woven Through Everything
The sacred isn’t far away, or locked away in a temple, a ritual, or some otherworldly realm. The sacred is the invisible thread running through the entire tapestry of life—right here, right now. In this deeply reflective episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the Vedic concept of otam-protam—the warp and weft of reality—revealing how divinity is interwoven through every moment, every element, every being. From the descent of the sacred Ganges to the subtle presence of God in all things, this episode invites you to shift your lens and recognize the divine fabric behind the visible world. Also featured is a moving tribute to Al Barile of SSD—a hardcore punk pioneer whose unexpected connection to the Bhāgavatam is a reminder that even the toughest exteriors can carry a sincere spiritual search within. Key Highlights: • What “warp and weft” teaches us about the nature of reality • C.S. Lewis on the God who walks everywhere incognito • Why seeing God in everything is the highest yoga • How the Ganga purifies not just bodies, but the mind and heart • Al Barile’s surprising connection to bhakti and the search for truth Whether you’re walking through a city street, sitting in nature, or standing in a mosh pit—the thread of the sacred is already there. Learn to see it. 🌿 Subscribe for daily inspiration and join thousands on the bhakti path. 🎧 Listen now! #BhaktiYoga #DivinePresence #SrimadBhagavatam #SacredEverywhere #OtamProtam #AlBarile #WisdomOfTheSages #PunkMeetsBhakti #GangaFlow ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1572: Should I Stay or Should I Go, Does Bhakti Require Renunciation? / Q & A Volume 268
04/06/2025
1572: Should I Stay or Should I Go, Does Bhakti Require Renunciation? / Q & A Volume 268
Can you practice deep spiritual life without walking away from your worldly responsibilities? Or is renunciation—of family, career, and social ties—a necessary cost of devotion? In this essential Q&A edition of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha address one of the most pressing questions for modern spiritual seekers: can the path of bhakti be lived fully without uprooting your life? What unfolds is a powerful conversation about clarity, compassion, and the dangers of spiritual misunderstanding. This episode dives into three thought-provoking questions: • Is bhakti really free from the strict renunciations of other yogic paths—or is that just a myth? • How do we trust Krishna’s plan without falling into inertia or passivity? • How should we respond to skepticism around the bhakti tradition, especially in light of scandal and misrepresentation? Key Highlights: • Why external renunciation is not the essence of bhakti—and how reorienting our vision of family, work, and social life is often the real path forward. • The subtle but vital difference between walking away from the world and seeing it through a new lens of service. • What it truly means to “accept what’s favorable and reject what’s unfavorable” for spiritual growth. • How to stay steady in your practice even when exposed to harmful or fanatical representations of bhakti. • Why spiritual life is about progress, not perfection—and how to build a path that is sustainable, sincere, and real. 🎧 Tune in now for a conversation that redefines what it means to be spiritual in the real world. 🌍 Join the bhakti movement: #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualProgress #WisdomOfTheSages #YogaInModernLife #BhaktiWithoutRenunciation #KrishnaConsciousness #SpiritualBurnout #SrimadBhagavatam #BhagavadGita #ModernBhakti #DailyWisdom #QandA ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1571: Why Is Ganges River Considered Purifying? Part 2
04/05/2025
1571: Why Is Ganges River Considered Purifying? Part 2
More than sacred—this is about cosmic justice, karmic cleansing, and the mysterious flow of divine grace. In this provocative conclusion to our two-part deep dive, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack why the Ganges is revered as the purifier of sins and how its sanctity is upheld—not just by myth or ritual, but through the living presence of Krishna and His devotees. What makes a river more than water? How does mercy override karma? And how can we become a river of grace ourselves? Key Highlights: • The Ganges as a portal of divine compassion—from Vaikuntha to Earth. • How saintly souls become walking places of pilgrimage. • Grace vs. karma: why fairness isn’t the highest principle in the universe. • The mystical relationship between Krishna’s feet, the holy river, and the pure-hearted. • Why Bhagiratha’s mission wasn’t just personal—it was a multi-generational act of love. Whether you’ve dipped in her waters or just dreamed of the Himalayas, this episode will change the way you see rivers, saints, and the subtle forces that shape our destiny. 🌊 Subscribe for daily spiritual insight and join a global community seeking truth through the path of bhakti. 🎧 Listen now & flow with us. #GangaRiver #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualGrace #SrimadBhagavatam #HinduWisdom #KarmaAndMercy #HolyRivers #WisdomOfTheSages #Raghunath #Kaustubha
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1570: Why Is Ganges River Considered Purifying? Part 1
04/02/2025
1570: Why Is Ganges River Considered Purifying? Part 1
Can water actually wash away your karma? For thousands of years, pilgrims have journeyed to the Ganges River with unwavering faith that her sacred waters can liberate the soul. But where does that power come from? And why is it believed that even the most sinful acts can be purified through a simple bath in her current? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the profound story of King Bhagirath and the descent of the Ganga, as told in the pages of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam. Together, they unpack ancient insights into how grace flows through sacred elements, and how divine consciousness transforms even the physical elements of this world. Key Highlights: • Why Bhagirath’s mission to bring down the Ganges spanned generations • The deep Vedic symbolism of “lotus feet” and approaching the divine from the ground up • Ganga’s own doubts—can she handle the sins of the world? • What makes something sacred in bhakti: form, faith, or transcendental connection? Get ready to rethink what it means to be purified, and how spiritual energy can travel through water, sound, and intention to change the destiny of a soul. 🌊 Subscribe and connect to timeless wisdom that continues to flow. 🎧 Tune in now! #GangesRiver #SpiritualPurification #Bhagirath #KarmaAndGrace #SacredWaters #SrimadBhagavatam #BhaktiYoga #WisdomOfTheSages #GangaDevi
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1569: Are We Seeking Truth or Emotional Comfort?
04/01/2025
1569: Are We Seeking Truth or Emotional Comfort?
Discover how modern psychology’s insights into motivated reasoning and confirmation bias align with ancient yogic teachings on how desire and attachment distort our perception of truth. In this eye-opening episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how both science and the Bhakti tradition describe the mind’s tendency to protect its illusions rather than seek reality. Drawing from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they unpack why truth feels so elusive, how even scholars and scientist can be blinded by comfort zones, and why the Bhāgavatam’s vision of Krishna as the personal Absolute is the ultimate disruption to the ego’s false narratives. 🔥 Key Takeaways: • Your mind isn’t always seeking truth—it’s seeking emotional safety. • Vedānta through the lens of Bhāgavatam reveals a spiritual evolution that challenges impersonalism. • Why we may cling to comforting spiritual philosophies—even when they contradict the sacred texts. • How the modes of material nature (guṇas) influence our worldviews, preferences. • The difference between subjective attraction and ontological truth in the path of bhakti. If you’ve ever wondered why intelligent people believe completely different things—even when reading the same sacred texts—this episode will open your eyes to the filters between the self and the truth. 🎧 Stream it now and rediscover how bhakti yoga offers clarity in a world clouded by illusion. 👉 Subscribe for daily drops of wisdom rooted in sacred text & lived experience. #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #ConfirmationBias #MotivatedReasoning #YogaPhilosophy #VedicWisdom #SpiritualEvolution #WisdomOfTheSages #KarmaToKrishna SB 9.8.22-26 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1568: Reality Distorted Through the Lens of Attachment & Aversion
03/31/2025
1568: Reality Distorted Through the Lens of Attachment & Aversion
Our perception of truth is rarely objective—it’s colored by what we crave and what we fear. In this eye-opening episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack a powerful quote from Carl Jung: “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” Paired with deep wisdom from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they explore how our internal programming—our icchā (desires) and dveṣa (aversions)—create filters that distort our understanding of the world, ourselves, and God. The episode takes a fascinating turn as the hosts recount the story of King Sagara’s sons, whose perception was so warped by anger and false assumptions that it led to their destruction. In contrast, a single grandson approaches with humility and clarity, revealing how higher consciousness means learning to see clearly—beyond the lens of the ego. Key Highlights: • How unconscious preferences distort spiritual understanding • Krishna’s words on icchā and dveṣa in the Bhagavad-gītā (7.27) • Why seeing the divine requires transcending the “box” we’ve built for truth • The difference between living under illusion and recognizing Krishna’s hand in all things • A reflection on how saints, mystics, and avatars may be walking among us unnoticed This episode isn’t just theory—it’s a call to courageously examine the filters we carry and begin the inner work of uncovering truth as it is. 🎧 Subscribe, tune in, and join the global bhakti conversation. #BhaktiWisdom #SrimadBhagavatam #CarlJung #AttachmentAndAversion #YogaPhilosophy #SelfAwareness #SpiritualPerception #ConsciousLiving #WisdomOfTheSages #KrishnaYoga SB 9.8.19-22 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1567: Growing Through the Dark Night of the Soul / An Interview with Author Simon Haas
03/30/2025
1567: Growing Through the Dark Night of the Soul / An Interview with Author Simon Haas
Life’s most painful moments often carry the seeds of our deepest transformation. In this powerful episode, author and scholar Simon Haas joins Wisdom of the Sages to illuminate how the Bhagavad Gita frames personal crisis—not as a detour from the spiritual path, but as an integral part of it. Known as Vishad Yoga, the yoga of crisis, this ancient wisdom reveals how despair can become a gateway to awakening. Through the lens of Arjuna’s breakdown on the battlefield, Simon explains the four universal symptoms of a dark night of the soul: • Intense suffering tied to time—fear of the future, lamentation for the past, and confusion in the present • A powerful urge to withdraw from life or even give up • Confrontation with parts of ourselves we’d rather not see • A feeling of complete helplessness, where even our best tools no longer work Rather than avoiding these moments, Simon shows us how to recognize them as sacred rites of passage—times when the soul is being reshaped by divine design. Learn how to navigate the inner battlefield with the guidance of yoga philosophy, and why the teachings of Krishna to Arjuna offer a timeless blueprint for turning breakdown into breakthrough. Key Highlights: • Why suffering often precedes spiritual evolution • How to listen, surrender, and evolve when everything falls apart • Why the world’s greatest spiritual texts were born from suffering • Practical tools from the Gita for navigating emotional crisis This episode is a profound companion for anyone going through grief, loss, disillusionment, or inner change. Let the Gita be your guide through the shadows. 🎧 Tune in now and walk the path of inner transformation with clarity and purpose. 🌱 Subscribe for daily insights from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and Bhagavad Gītā. #DarkNightOfTheSoul #BhagavadGitaWisdom #VishadYoga #BhaktiWisdom #YogaThroughSuffering #SpiritualAwakening #WisdomOfTheSages #YogaPhilosophy #SimonHaas #TransformationThroughCrisis ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1566: Reframing Mental Suffering Through Bhakti / Q & A Volume 267
03/30/2025
1566: Reframing Mental Suffering Through Bhakti / Q & A Volume 267
For some of us, it seems like the mind will never let us go. In this raw and deeply insightful Q&A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha confront the complex intersection of trauma, depression, and the spiritual path. They unpack how the Bhakti tradition doesn’t promise a quick fix for erasing psychological suffering—but it radically reframes it. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gītā and Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they explain how the soul carries the subtle mind into the next life, how karma shapes mental struggles, and how deep devotional practice can burn through even the heaviest mental burdens. Bhakti offers a transformative lens—a way to see the mind not as the self, but as an apparatus we carry on the soul’s long journey. For anyone dealing with mental health challenges, or supporting those who are, this episode offers real spiritual tools to face it, live with it, and grow beyond it. Key Highlights: • Why Bhakti might not quickly “fix” depression—but it can transform how we live with it • How trauma and psychological pain may carry over from previous lifetimes • The yogic technique that instantly reveals you are not your mind • Raghunath shares candid reflections on fatherhood, heartbreak, and spiritual surrender 🎧 Dive into a conversation that’s equal parts psychology and soul. 🌟 Subscribe for daily spiritual insights and join a global community living the path of Bhakti. MentalHealthAndSpirituality #BhaktiYoga #DepressionAndBhakti #KarmaAndTheMind #YouAreNotYourMind #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam #BhagavadGita #HealingThroughBhakti #SpiritualTransformation ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1565: No Retaliation, No Hate - A Yogi’s Guide to Loving the Unlovable
03/27/2025
1565: No Retaliation, No Hate - A Yogi’s Guide to Loving the Unlovable
60,000 angry men attack a saint—and get reduced to ashes by their own ignorance – this epic tale from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam becomes the backdrop for a powerful conversation on radical forgiveness, spiritual transformation, and the illusiory nature of enemies. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack ancient wisdom through the lens of Lao Tzu, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela to reveal one unshakable truth: real sages see no enemies, only souls. From corrupt olive oil empires to broken relationships, from ego battles to misused power—even from within religious life—this episode goes deep into how spiritual maturity always means rising above. 🎧 Episode Highlights: • Why transformation matters more than happiness on the path of yoga • Kapiladeva’s silent strength and what it teaches about divine vision • Bhakti’s answer to cancel culture: love those who don’t love you back • “Destroy your enemies… by making them your friends.” 🕉️ This is not just philosophy—it’s a revolution of the heart. Tap into the mindset of the sage and upgrade your spiritual operating system. 🌿 Don’t forget to subscribe and share! #BhaktiWisdom #ForgivenessIsFreedom #SrimadBhagavatam #SageLife #YogaWisdom #Kapiladeva #BhaktiPodcast #SpiritualGrowth Join Kaustubha Das at Harvard Divinity School for Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET SB 9.8.7-13 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1564: The Seed You Water Will Grow: Rewiring the Mind Through Bhakti
03/26/2025
1564: The Seed You Water Will Grow: Rewiring the Mind Through Bhakti
Anxiety, envy, fantasy, or gratitude—whatever you feed in the mind will take root and expand. That’s not just yogic philosophy, it’s neuroscience. The wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and the story of Śaubhari Muni reveal how subtle desires, left unchecked, can grow into powerful distractions that completely reroute the course of life. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how our thoughts shape our inner algorithm, and how Bhakti offers a path back to clarity, intention, and true spiritual direction. Key Highlights: • “The seed you water is the seed that will grow.” – Thích Nhất Hạnh • How to retrain your mental algorithm like a spiritual social media feed • Why material desires don’t die out—they intensify • Bhakti is the addiction that liberates • The path back from confusion isn’t judgment—it’s intention 📿 Tune in for a timely reminder that where your attention goes, your life follows. 🎧 Subscribe now for daily inspiration rooted in timeless wisdom. #BhaktiYoga #MindTraining #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualGrowth #YogicWisdom #TrainYourMind Join Kaustubha Das at Harvard Divinity School for Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET SB 9.6.49-55 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1563: Brad Pitt on Desperation and Loneliness
03/25/2025
1563: Brad Pitt on Desperation and Loneliness
There’s a deep existential void that often accompanies material success. When Hollywood A-listers and rock legends echo the same ancient truths as the yogic sages of old, it’s giving them a listen. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha dissect a powerful quote from Brad Pitt—spoken at the peak of his fame—revealing the desperation hidden behind luxury, the spiritual failures of sensual indulgence, and the timeless Bhakti wisdom found in the story of the mystic sage Śaubharī Muni. Key Highlights: • Why achieving the pinnacle of material success often leads to loneliness and inner collapse • The simple but profound shift from self-mastery to spiritual surrender • What Bono, Mick Jagger, and a sage meditating underwater all have in common • Watching or society descend into Super Bowl rap battle disrespect Discover why Bhakti yoga cuts through the illusion of external success and points us to the only thing that truly satisfies: unmotivated love. 🎧 Tune in, reflect deep, and pivot toward the real treasure. #BradPittQuote #BhaktiWisdom #FameAndEmptiness #MaterialSuccess #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualPodcast #WisdomOfTheSages #ModernYogis #MickJagger #Bono #DesireAndDetachment #SaubhariMuni #BhaktiYogaTruths #VedantaForToday SB 9.6.45-48 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1562: Where Mystic Power Falls Short
03/24/2025
1562: Where Mystic Power Falls Short
Despite achieving what many spiritual seekers only dream of— intense renunciation, self control and mystic abilities—some yogi’s in the still suffer from fear and emptiness. In this eye-opening episode, Kaustubha and guest co-host Kishori Gopi explore the downfalls of two great mystic yogis and the deeper message their stories carry: that real transformation lies not in knowledge or austerity, but from the purity of one’s heart. Through the stories of Durvāsā, Saubhari, and the unwavering devotion of Ambarīṣa, we uncover how even the most exalted yogic accomplishments are hollow without love, humility, and inner simplicity. Key Highlights: • Why mystic power can increase pride—and suffering • How Ambarīṣa’s humility outshines a yogi’s austerity • “Simplicity seeks God, purity enjoys Him” — the Thomas à Kempis quote unpacked • A Bhāgavatam verse revealing that even Lord Vishnu doesn’t enjoy His own opulence without the love of the devotees Tune in to this illuminating episode to understand what truly moves the heart of God—and why it has little to do with how “spiritually accomplished” we appear. 🌊 Subscribe and join the global bhakti community rediscovering ancient truths for modern life. 🎧 Listen now! #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #MysticYogaVsDevotion #PurityOfHeart #SimplicityAndDevotion #WisdomOfTheSages SB 9.5.27-9.6.44 Join Kaustubha at Harvard Divinity School Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1561: Karma's Cosmic Sensitivity Training & How to Opt Out / Q & A Vol 266
03/22/2025
1561: Karma's Cosmic Sensitivity Training & How to Opt Out / Q & A Vol 266
You’re not locked into karma—you’re being trained by it. In this illuminating Q&A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha reveal how the law of karma is less about punishment and more about cosmic sensitivity training. But the deeper question is: Do you want to stay under karma’s rule, or reconnect with the root of all existence? 🌿 Key Moments & Highlights • (Departure): Kaustubha’s sacred farewell from India, chanting mantras to Lord Nṛsiṁhadeva as light streamed over the Ganges • The Indra to Indra Gopa principle – how karma reaches from the king of heavens to the microscopic germs • the subtle yet transformative distinction between being under the automated system of karma versus being under Krishna’s direct energy. • Why bhakti lifts one above karma (and why that makes Krishna personally invested in the devotee’s treatment) • (Privilege): The unexpected spiritual wealth of the widows of Vṛndāvana and how they lit up Vishaka Devi’s heart • The power of crossing a spiritual gate with no return—walking into the Himalayas to die in divine remembrance • (Real name vs. appearance): Srila Bhaktisiddhānta Saraswati’s insight on how mantra power flows from the heart, not just the syllables • The comic-yet-profound exploration of “choosing your privilege” in this life—no matter your status or circumstances Whether you’re wrestling with life’s injustices, seeking clarity on mantra meditation, or feeling the call to go deeper into spiritual practice, this episode invites you to stop asking “what do I deserve?” and start asking “who do I serve?” 🎧 Tune in now and choose your cosmic path. #LawOfKarma #BhaktiYoga #MantraMeditation #Mahamantra #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualPrivilege #KrishnaBhakti #Himalayas #WidowsOfVrindavan #SpiritualRetreat #KarmaVsBhakti #QandAEpisode #WisdomOfTheSages #Haridwar #DevotionalLife #IndraGopa #KirtanYoga #SpiritualDeparture ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1560: The Cost of Resentment
03/21/2025
1560: The Cost of Resentment
Resentment is a silent killer of peace—and it’s one of the biggest obstacles on the spiritual path. In this powerful episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and special guest Jiva G dive deep into the spiritual and psychological mechanics of forgiveness. With decades of experience in both Bhakti yoga and 12-step recovery, Jiva brings clarity, compassion, and hard-earned wisdom to one of the most difficult practices in human life: letting go. Drawing from the story of King Ambarīṣa in the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and real-life experiences of transformation, this conversation explores why forgiveness is not about excusing bad behavior, but about reclaiming your own power and serenity. Key Takeaways: • How resentment blocks spiritual growth and poisons our inner world • Why self-reflection—not blame—is the first step to emotional freedom • How Bhakti and 12-step principles work together to heal deep wounds • The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation • Why forgiving others is often the key to forgiving ourselves • How spiritual community and loving support can help us do what seems impossible • Tools and mindsets that can transform lifelong patterns of hurt and shame If you’re carrying pain from the past—or struggling to release judgment toward yourself or others—this episode offers both inspiration and real-world practices to help you move forward with strength, clarity, and grace. 🎧 Tune in now and subscribe for daily teachings that blend Bhakti wisdom with practical transformation. #ForgivenessJourney #LetGoAndGrow #BhaktiYogaWisdom #HealingThroughBhakti #12StepRecovery #SpiritualGrowth #ResentmentRecovery #InnerPeace #WisdomOfTheSages #SelfReflection #KingAmbarisha #SrimadBhagavatam ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1559: The Power of Letting Go in Bhakti
03/20/2025
1559: The Power of Letting Go in Bhakti
In this eye-opening episode, Raghunath and guest co-host Jiva G dive deep into the hidden roots of addiction, attachment, and self-sabotage through the lens of bhakti. Drawing from the story of Maharaja Ambarish and the transformative insights of the 12 Steps, they explore how true renunciation isn’t about leaving the world behind—it’s about untangling the knots of the heart. Key Highlights: 🔥 Why real renunciation happens within, not just by walking away. 🌀 The surprising link between addiction, resentment, and spiritual stagnation. 🕉️ Devotees may take no offense—but Krishna does. ❤️ How self-forgiveness and surrender unlock the path to real freedom. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own mind or weighed down by past mistakes, this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire a new way forward. 🔔 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands worldwide on the bhakti journey! 🎧 Tune in now! #LetGoAndSurrender #BhaktiRecovery #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam SB 9.5.26-27 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1558: When Arrogance Meets a Yogi's Forgiveness
03/19/2025
1558: When Arrogance Meets a Yogi's Forgiveness
What happens when a powerful mystic, fueled by arrogance, tries to destroy a humble king—only to be met with kindness? The ancient encounter between Durvasa Muni and King Ambarish reveals a profound yogic truth: the greatest strength lies not in power, but in devotion. Join Raghunath and Kaustubha as they dive deep into this riveting Śrīmad Bhāgavatam tale, exploring the transformative nature of humility, forgiveness, and the real measure of spiritual advancement. Why did King Ambarish fast for an entire year waiting for his offender? What did Durvasa Muni finally realize about true yogic power? And how does this wisdom apply to our own struggles with resentment and misunderstanding? Key Highlights: 🔹 The hidden power of forgiving your worst enemy. 🔹 Why Bhakti transcends the paths of jñāna and mystic yoga. 🔹 The illusion of material success—even on the highest planetary realms. 🔹 How the sincere devotion of one person can transform another’s heart. This episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about strength, tolerance, and the journey to divine love. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands worldwide in the practice of Bhakti Yoga. 🎧 Listen now! #Forgiveness #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualPower #WisdomOfTheSages SB 9.5.11-25 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1557: Your New Life is Going to Cost You Your Old One
03/18/2025
1557: Your New Life is Going to Cost You Your Old One
Transformation isn’t cheap—it demands that we leave behind the comforts of familiarity, the rationalizations that hold us back, and the identities we’ve carefully constructed. In this episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the radical shift required for true spiritual evolution. Drawing wisdom from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they unpack the extraordinary story of King Ambarīṣa and his fearless surrender, revealing how real change calls for real sacrifice. Key Highlights: 🔥 What does it really take to step into a higher version of yourself? 🔥 The unseen cost of clinging to old habits, relationships, and mindsets. 🔥 King Ambarīṣa’s astonishing act of compassion—even towards his enemy. 🔥 Dharmic reversals highlight the importance of inner essence over external appearances. If you’ve ever felt torn between your spiritual aspirations and the gravitational pull of your past, this episode will hit home. Join us as we break down what it truly means to let go and step into a new reality. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for daily wisdom! #SpiritualGrowth #LetGoAndGrow #BhaktiWisdom #Transformation #SrimadBhagavatam #AncientWisdom SB 9.5.1-10 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1556: Variations on the Theme of Divine Love
03/17/2025
1556: Variations on the Theme of Divine Love
Like a great classical composition, the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam unfolds as variations on a theme—repeating, refining, and revealing a singular truth through different stories and characters. That truth? Beyond the pursuit of pleasure (bhoga) and even the escape of liberation (mokṣa), the highest fulfillment is found in bhakti—a relationship of divine love. In this episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how this theme plays out in the dramatic encounter between Durvāsā Muni and King Ambarīṣa. More than just an ancient tale, their story touches on something deeply relevant—our modern struggles with power, ego, and the fear of surrender. What does it really mean when Vishnu declares that He is controlled by love? And how does this vision of the divine challenge our deepest assumptions about strength, authority, and freedom? 🔥 Key Highlights: • The Bhāgavatam’s structure—how it echoes the classical technique of variations on a theme. • Why the pursuit of power, knowledge, or even liberation is ultimately incomplete. • How Bhakti rewires our understanding of strength—not as domination, but as devotion. • Vishnu’s unexpected revelation: “I am controlled by the love of my devotees.” • What true freedom looks like when it’s rooted in love rather than detachment. If you’ve ever wrestled with the idea of a personal divine or questioned what true fulfillment looks like, this episode offers a fresh perspective—one that unfolds like a beautifully composed symphony, leading us back to the essence of spiritual life. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join a growing global conversation on Bhakti and the deeper meaning of life. 🎧 Tune in now! #DivineLove #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualFreedom SB 9.4.65-71 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1555: The Mind Body Connection / Q & A Volume 265
03/15/2025
1555: The Mind Body Connection / Q & A Volume 265
The mind affects the body, the body affects the mind—but what does the bhakti tradition say about the mind-body connection? In this Q & A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack the deeper yogic wisdom behind this popular concept. Are we trying to unite the mind and body, or transcend them both? And how does our environment, our food, and even our relationships shape our consciousness? Key Topics Discussed: • The real meaning of “mind-body connection” in yoga philosophy • How intelligence, mind, and senses interact in our daily lives • The role of asana, pranayama, and diet in shaping the mind • Can food affect our consciousness? The significance of prasadam • Raising children in bhakti: creating a spiritually nourishing home • Does Krishna accept any offering? The role of devotion in food preparation Join us as we explore the bhakti perspective on refining the mind, uplifting the spirit, and creating a life centered on devotion. 🌟 Subscribe for daily spiritual insights and join thousands on the transformative path of bhakti! 🎧 Tune in now! #MindBodyConnection #BhaktiYoga #WisdomOfTheSages #Prasadam #YogaPhilosophy ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1554: Are We God? Are We Separate? Sri Chaitanya’s Perfect Balance
03/14/2025
1554: Are We God? Are We Separate? Sri Chaitanya’s Perfect Balance
We live in an incredible era when ancient spiritual traditions are being rediscovered and redefined for the modern seeker. But amidst the extremes—one side painting God as an unreachable authority demanding blind obedience, and the other dissolving all distinction between the self and the divine—where does true spiritual clarity lie? Sri Chaitanya’s teachings give us the perfect balance. He revealed a path of bhakti where we are both one with and different from God—eternally connected yet uniquely individual. Like the ideal parent, his message offers both guidance and freedom, discipline and affection, revealing that our highest joy comes not from control, but from loving reciprocation. And he didn’t just speak these truths—he embodied them, inaugurating a new era of bhakti where love of God is available to all, simply through the power of the holy name. 🔑 Key Highlights: • The missing piece in both Western religious thought and Eastern impersonalism—Sri Chaitanya’s perfect synthesis • How the holy name acts as a spiritual bridge, reconnecting us to our divine nature • Why true humility is empowering, not self-effacing • Spiritual Life: When to be flexible? When to be rigid? • How we are living in a special age of bhakti, where the teachings of Sri Chaitanya are spreading across the world Sri Chaitanya’s movement isn’t just history—it’s happening right now. Tune in and be part of the wave of bhakti that is changing lives worldwide. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and be part of the global Bhakti movement! 🎧 Listen now! #SriChaitanya #BhaktiRevolution #HolyName #GauraPurnima #SpiritualAwakening ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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1553: Who Sits on the Throne of Your Heart?
03/13/2025
1553: Who Sits on the Throne of Your Heart?
We all have a throne within the core of the heart—but who, or what, is sitting on it? In this powerful episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the profound teachings of Bhakti yoga that reveal how our deepest attachments shape our consciousness. Is our heart occupied by fleeting desires, ego-driven pursuits, or the all-attractive Supreme Being? Drawing from the wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they uncover Krishna’s astonishing statement: “I am completely under the control of my devotees.” Learn what it means to make space for divine love, clear out distractions, and invite Krishna to take His rightful place. Key Takeaways: 🔹 What does it mean to truly seek God with all your heart? 🔹 The unseen power of spiritual connections—how Bhakti spreads naturally. 🔹 Why Krishna reciprocates according to the space we make for Him. 🔹 The surprising way sharing Bhakti strengthens your spiritual life. 🔹 Clearing the throne: How to identify and remove what doesn’t belong. Join us as we dive deep into the essence of devotion and discover why making Krishna the center of our hearts brings the highest fulfillment. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and become part of the Bhakti revolution! 🎧 Tune in now! #ThroneOfTheHeart #BhaktiYoga #WisdomOfTheSages #KrishnaConsciousness #SrimadBhagavatam SB 9.4.63-64 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to WATCH ON YOUTUBE: LISTEN ON ITUNES: CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM:
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