Thinking Bhakti

In this special episode recorded in Toronto, Swamiji speaks with Pandit Mayuran about his political career in the UK and the wider issues affecting the Western world at present. Although a contentious topic, Hinduism has never shied away from open dialogue and exploration in order to better understand the nature of dharma and our role in its development. What follows is a discussion on the Mahabharata, nuance, pragmatism vs idealism, the balance between compassion and conservation, material i...

In this video Swami reflects on a conversation he had with a friend during this summer's Just Love Festival. The conversation centered around our inability to stand by our choices in life, with genuine acceptance and contentment. People that should be speaking of love, gratitude and the celebration of life, so often fall into the trap of complaining and victimhood to earn the pity and compassion of others, while hiding from their own responsibility and agency. Swami offers important perspecti...

In this special lecture delivered during the 2026 Gurupurnima celebrations at Shree Peetha Nilaya, Swami speaks about the 5 different stages a spiritual seeker will progress through in their relationship with their Satguru. Drawing parallels between the role of the teacher and life itself, Swami explains how to best navigate and understand each stage, giving concrete examples and insights into how to ultimately take their relationship with their guru and with themselves to the next level! Co...

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explores the struggle between immediate gratification (Preyas) and truly doing what is good and beneficial in our lives (Śreyas). From birth, society conditions us to seek pleasure at every moment. However, this relentless pursuit of convenience, prestige, and pleasure often comes at a severe cost to our personal growth, inner peace, and true Divine connection. Drawing from the Katha Upanishad, Søren Kierkegaard and St. Augustine, Swami unpacks how we can c...

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Sarvamohini Dasi (Kristina Margolin) to discuss the role of numerology and astrology in understanding our nature and purpose. In this personal discussion, Sarvamohini Dasi opens up about her realization that while these ancient sciences can explain the patterns of our lives, they cannot fully satisfy the heart's ultimate desire for divine love. We discuss what it means to honor these tools that help us navigate this world, while ultimately g...

People often ask Swami a very specific question: "What kind of God do you believe in?" But in truth, they aren't just asking for a name. They are asking about the fundamental nature of the "type" of God he believes in. Today, modern seekers are often forced into a frustrating dilemma. As the famed historian Yuval Noah Harari points out, society seems to present us with only two options: the "Mystery God" (a vague, unknowable cosmic energy that asks nothing of us) or the "Lawgiver God" (a pe...

How can we reconcile the miracles of different, seemingly contradictory religions? If they all claim to be the only truth, who is lying? For the atheist, if every religion claims exclusive miracles that contradict each other, the most logical conclusion is that they are all making it up. The typical religious response, claiming our miracles are from God and theirs are from the devil (or just fake), is intellectually unsatisfying and only fuels tribalism. In this episode Swami Revatikaanta ch...

In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Ananta Das (Franco Erazo) to explore the world of psychedelics and earth medicine in the spiritual world. Following a successful corporate career, Ananta Das immersed himself in the world of shamanic earth medicines—specifically Kambo and Bufo (5-MeO-DMT). In this mature conversation, Ananta Das shares his gratitude for these sacred tools, highlighting how they served as powerful catalysts to wake him up and point him toward the Divine. Tog...

Why is it that despite doing all the "right" spiritual work — the meditation, the yoga, the reading, the workshops — we still feel empty and frustrated? In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explores the trap of "Spiritual Consumerism." For many of us, especially in an impatient results-oriented world, we’ve been conditioned to think of the Divine as a vending machine: if we put in the time, the effort, or the money, we expect an immediate "hit" of peace and love in return. It is this misunder...

Why is it that for so many people, the "smarter" they are, the harder it is to have a relationship with God? In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta explore the internal friction between two archetypes we all carry: The Rationalist and The Poet. The Rationalist demands facts, logic, and efficiency. But the Poet doesn't allow those things to limit what the heart feels. Drawing on the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the Western philosophy, Swami discusses why you don’t have to abandon your ...

Bhakti Yoga Changed My Life In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta sits down with Bhagawati Dasi, a yoga teacher and Bhakti practitioner, to explore how yoga can return to its authentic roots beyond trends and business. Together, they discuss the commercialization of yoga in the West, the loss of depth in modern practice, and how Bhakti Yoga offers a path back to sincerity and spiritual connection. Bhagawati Dasi shares her experience teaching yoga in New York City, reflecting on how inner tran...

What if someone in your family started doing things no one could explain? In this episode, we hear the personal account of someone who grew up with Paramahamsa Vishwananda — not as a distant guru, but as a close friend. From sacred ash (vibhuti) appearing on photos to spontaneous spiritual visions, these aren’t stories from books — they’re real experiences. Joined by Swami Revatikaanta and Mayuran, we explore key moments, including Ravi’s encounter with the Divine Mother — a life-changing ex...

In this episode of Thinking Bhakti, Swami Revatikaanta speaks with Swami Tulsidas about spiritual life, creativity, and community-building. They begin with the story behind the podcast—how it started in the ashram with limited resources and a basic setup. Swami Tulsidas shares what pushed him to keep recording despite the challenges. The conversation moves into personal reflections on discovering Paramahamsa Vishwananda and building a devotional path without a ready-made community. They dis...

From Neuroscience to the Ashram: Swami Anashuya’s Unconventional Journey In this deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation, Swami Anashuya shares his search for truth—from childhood questions about death and the soul to rigorous studies in biochemistry and neuroscience. After walking away from academia, he explored shamanic traditions in the rainforest, vibrational healing, and New Age practices, only to find that none could offer the clarity or heart-opening love he was seeking. Watch T...

Pandit Krishna Kripa Dasa – Hindu priest, author, lecturer, and President of the Hindu Federation of Spain – shares inspiring insights into his efforts to unify the different Hindu traditions in Spain as well as in Europe. He speaks about the differences with other religions, the challenges he faces, and the many beautiful teachings he has learned over the years in this role. He emphasizes the importance of using common sense to support this work. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://...

Meet Mahesh Kale, an Indian-American classical vocalist and playback singer renowned for his specialization in Indian Classical music, sharing deep insights into his life. He is one of the most prominent Indian Classical musicians of the new generation. How did it all start for him to develop such a passion for music? What does it mean to travel around the world, and how can someone develop such a love for music? His answers are fascinating, and in the end, he gives everyone hope by sharing t...

In this episode with Shandilya, we dive into the true essence of yoga, exploring its connection to God, the role of intention, and the evolution of its practices. The discussion starts by challenging modern perceptions of yoga, highlighting the importance of understanding it as a conscious path towards God. The conversation contrasts Patanjali's classical yoga, emphasizing its practical structure, with the deeper, spiritual aspects taught in the Bhagavad Gita. The hosts reflect on the essence...

When someone truly dives into the spiritual journey, they are faced with many pitfalls and challenges along the way. One of these is the need to avoid desires that entangle the individual further in mundane reality. But what if there is a much more common danger that can sabotage the journey even more, yet one is not fully aware of it? Listen to Swami Revatikaanta as he explains in this satsang the importance of recognizing this enemy as soon as possible, before it becomes too late to confron...

In this episode, we hear the story of Paartha, the first devotee of Paramahamsa Vishwananda in Europe, and how he met his guru at a very young age—an encounter that shaped his entire life. He shares insights about the early years of Bhakti Marga in Europe and how it gradually evolved from a small community into the global movement we know today. Swami Revatikaanta poses a fundamental question: How has Paramahamsa Vishwananda changed over the years? Has he become more strict? Has the path beco...

This video is a continuation of the previous one. This time, we watch Stuart Knechtle as he speaks with a young student about frequently debated topics such as karma and caste. They also discuss the meaning of proselytization from both Christian and Hindu perspectives. Is Stuart Knechtle’s criticism of Hinduism valid, or is there a significant misunderstanding at play? Furthermore, Swami Revatikanta's analysis delves into whether followers of Sanatana Dharma should share their faith with ot...

In this podcast the essence of the upcoming book of Mayuran Senthilnathan will be discussed. Back to Ayodhya is a unique and intriguing spiritual commentary on the ancient scripture of the Ramayana. Leading the reader through the dramatic events of this epic story, it reveals extraordinary hidden insights about the spiritual journey, with life lessons to help one make real changes along the way. As the story unfolds, we see that the Ramayana is not merely an ancient narration, but rathe...

What does it mean for two young individuals to grow up in a Hindu spiritual community from a very young age, coming from very different backgrounds? Meet Shridara and Lakshmianandani Dasi, a young couple who grew up in Bhakti Marga, as they share their stories about experiencing this unique path and how they have been perceived by the outside world. What are their daily struggles, and what changed, especially after their initiation as devotees? They also share how the Youth Summe...

From Worst Enemy to Best Friend Navigating through life, changing locations and surroundings, altering appearances, or acquiring new possessions might create the illusion that external changes can bring everlasting happiness. Yet, we often overlook the one constant companion within us, present 24 hours a day, which doesn’t always have our best interests at heart: the mind. According to the Bhagavad Gita, when uncontrolled, the mind is our greatest enemy; when disciplined, it becomes our most...

In this episode, we will hear the life story of Ameyatma Das, a renowned musician who went on an adventurous journey to finally meet his satguru. Through this path, he was able to embrace his God-given talent to help others, while always being reminded that every gift comes from God and that healers should see themselves as instruments in His hands. We will explore the challenges within modern New Age spirituality, highlighting the importance of proper knowledge to avoid falling into ego-dri...

In the final episode of the Tādātmya Vedānta series, we explore the nature of Śrī Hari, focusing on His essence and qualities, as well as His various avatāras. Additionally, we delve into His manifestations as the Satguru, Śiva, and Devī. The nature of the soul (ātma) will also be discussed, including the reason for our long journey and the nature of its relationship with Śrī Hari. From the ultimate perspective, the Lord remains truly inconceivable to the limited human intellect. Where intel...

The second episode delves into a deeper analysis of Tādātmya Vedānta - A Treatise on the Philosophy of the Hari Bhakta Sampradāya, written to provide a foundational philosophical conclusion (siddhānta) based on the teachings of Paramahamsa Vishwananda. It situates the contemporary movement of the Hari Bhakta Sampradāya within the expansive traditions of Vaiṣṇavism and Vedānta. In this episode, we explore the landscape of Vedānta and its significance, examining what makes Vedānta unique among...

Sampradāya Politics The first episode discusses the myth of the four Sampradāyas, which is largely based on a specific verse in the Padma Purana. This verse is often used today to discredit Sampradāyas that fall outside of this system. Originally, it was intended to unify the various traditions, but over time, it became a tool to assert the legitimacy of one's own tradition, overlooking the true essence of a Sampradāya. This essence is far simpler and should centre on elements such as...

This episode delves into profound spiritual themes, including recognising the guru and the deep lessons found in the Guru-Disciple relationship. However, the steps to perfection are not always smooth. Swami Paranthapa, a long-term disciple of Paramahamsa Vishwananda, shares insights from his journey. Swami Paranthapa recounts significant spiritual encounters, including meetings with Hanuman, and discusses the value of friendship, the importance of taking risks for the Guru, and a recent book...

Each person on this planet goes through the same journey of rediscovering the purpose of life, oneself, and our connection with God. From an early age, Nikunja explored many different spiritual traditions, but deep inside, she felt there had to be something real, free from hypocrisy, that would give her the answers to her questions and the longing she had to discover the truth. Then, one day, when she met her satguru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, her search ended, and she found what she had bee...

Swami Bhakti Vedanta Muni Maharaj speaks in this episode about his deeply touching experience of how he handled the departure of his guru. What can devotees learn from such an experience when the guru leaves the body? We also discuss Vaishnava unity, sadhana, and spiritual maturity. Swami Bhakti Vedanta Muni Maharaj was born in a high class Vaishnava family in India. He has started practicing Bhakti Yoga since age of five. He sung devotional songs under the personal guidance of ...

The Divine Realm and reality often go unseen by our limited senses, perceived as just another mundane phenomenon. However, it takes strong faith, dedication, and a longing heart to go on a spiritual journey and seek God. Throughout history, divine personalities have walked the earth, embodying divinity and proving that the Divine Realm is real, not just an idea. These personalities not only impart knowledge but also offer mystical and spiritual experiences to strengthen faith, sh...

What does it mean to serve a guru directly, and what would be the outcome of this service when someone engages in it? Rishi Pankaj grew up in Bhakti Marga with his family and was later appointed as the personal secretary to Paramahamsa Vishwananda. In this role, he learned what it truly means to serve with the right intention and was inspired by the daily service his guru rendered to mankind. This duty was not always easy and had its challenges, but only when we go beyond our co...

The Problem With Exclusivity Doctrines In this episode, Swami Revatikaanta will discuss with Mayuran the hot topic of whether the three major religions can coexist in harmony. Are there any overlapping beliefs, or is the claim of exclusive truth the main reason we have so many debates about which religion has the 'absolute truth' today? What is needed to respect other paths despite having different views? In a globalized society like ours, this topic needs to be properly examined to un...

Finding meaning in life through the actions we take on a daily basis, whether in the long or short term, is something most of society can relate to. We are beings in search of fulfillment, but we often end up looking for it in the wrong places, either consciously or unconsciously. It begins with the essential questions in life, which eventually lead us to the place where we belong and can find our true dharma. Discover how Rishi Amara Nimai Das found his path to the teacher he was look...

Being spiritual doesn't mean that we suddenly have an easy life. Often, we need to take risks and step out of our comfort zone to discover the secrets of life that lie beyond fear. Trusting God requires a lot of courage and faith. Remembering many of her past lives had a significant impact on her understanding that there is more than just this one life. Daya, who has had a long spiritual journey, moving 37 times around the globe, managing different businesses, and raising children, incl...

What is the common ground of sampradayas, and what distinguishes them? How can Vaishnavism be presented in the West without losing its essence, and does appearance create barriers to reaching people? Hridayananda Das Goswami is someone who prioritizes service and strives to share this universal teaching to help humanity grow. At the end, we will ask the question: Should Vaishnavism be separated from Indian culture in order to reach as many hearts as possible? These and other topics are discu...

In this episode, you will hear about the intriguing journey of Sitaram Ricardo Peres, a long-term professional football coach. Later in his life, he found a deeper meaning that helped him improve all aspects of his life. Since meeting his guru, Paramahamsa Vishwananda, his understanding of life has undergone a complete transformation. His life story is an inspiration, demonstrating how small improvements with greater depth can enhance our understanding of ourselves, the purpose of life,...

Is Sanskrit more than just a language? Why are Hindu texts rooted in this language, and what sets it apart from others? What beauty lies within it, and how does it illuminate various aspects of spirituality? Sanskrit is intricately linked to Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). Many sacred texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and various sutras, were composed in Sanskrit. As a result, Sanskrit is deeply intertwined with the spiritual and philosophical traditions of India. About the gue...

There are moments in life when we encounter our limitations, prompting a natural call for the grace of God. It occurs when we realize our inability to move forward and yearn for something higher—for answers, for guidance. It is at this juncture that we are led to our spiritual teacher and the answers we so deeply desire. Ojasvi Das, who has forged a remarkable career, working in the most dangerous prison in Brazil for some time, is someone who has harmonized his successful p...

In this episode, Vrishaparva, a member of the Knowledge Department in Bhakti Marga, has been serving alongside Swami Revatikaanta for the past few years. In this podcast, we discuss the importance and place of knowledge on the spiritual path. Is knowledge to be used as a weapon to divide, or can it be used to enhance our bhakti and appreciate the path more? We also discuss some basic ideas of Vedanta philosophy and how the Hari-bhakta-sampradaya siddhanta is a modern response to these questio...

Life is not boring and is always in movement. Meet Rameshwardas, an entrepreneur and family man who has achieved considerable success in the business world and explored spiritual life from various angles to find deeper meaning. Having experienced darkness in a cave for several days, which shaped his understanding of reality, he delved into shamanism before finally finding his satguru, who marked the culmination of his spiritual search and became initiated into a vaishnava sampradaya. His fas...

Rishi Sambhava, a long-term disciple of Paramahamsa Vishwananda, shares his story of growing up in Canada within a Christian family. He recounts facing hardships within his family and ultimately meeting his guru, who had a miraculous impact on his life. Through this spiritual journey, he experienced the divine in real life, leading to a transformative change in his lifestyle, including adopting a vegetarian diet. Ahimsa, the principle of least harm possible, underscores the impo...

In this episode, we explore the potential divine incarnation of Paramahamsa Vishwananda and the category in which His devotees would place Him among saints, gurus, sadhus, and the Avatars of Sriman Narayana mentioned in the holy scriptures. Ultimately, this claim is rooted in faith but is also based on direct personal experiences of His devotees worldwide. We aim to understand the foundation and platform on which this claim is built. About the guest: Mayuran Senthilnathan's passion lies in ...

What does it mean to grow up in a Vaishnava family in Brazil and live a lifestyle of a devotee? Paramjyoti tells his life story, being in ISKCON, experiencing life in a Gurukul, facing challenges but also encountering opportunities, and ultimately meeting Paramahamsa Vishwananda. His experience then raises the question: What qualifies as a good human being, and how can we inspire each other on our respective paths? Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatik...

In this episode, Swami Akash discusses how Eastern Philosophy is often dismissed in the Western hemisphere and elucidates the reasons behind this dismissal. Is it dismissed due to competition? Are there any similarities between the two, and what sets both philosophies apart? Finally, we delve into the origins of society and examine the differences between understanding and rejecting ideas. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

Rishi Aaradhaka, a musician since childhood and presently the Bhakti Marga International Music Coordinator, shares his insights in this episode. We will look into the topic of Kirtan, delving into why it holds a unique place in the realm of music and stands as the most significant spiritual practice in the present age (Kali Yuga). We will also delve deeper into the subject by discussing the attributes that define talent and the importance of setting the right intention. Additionally, we...

Swami Chidananda, born a Hindu but raised in the United States, and on the other side, Swami Revatikaanta, born in the West but having lived for many years in India. What was the experience like? How is being a Hindu perceived in India in the modern generation? And why do Hindus in the West often practice Hinduism primarily as a cultural aspect? These and other topics are discussed in this episode of 'Thinking Bhakti. Follow Swami Revatikaanta: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/svrevatik...

In this podcast, we sit down with Stefano Tiozzo, a renowned photographer, author and documentarist, to explore his fascinating journey from the world of photography to fame, and how it led to a significant shift in his career path as a devotee of Paramahamsa Vishwananda. Check out Stefano Tiozzo's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@StefanoTiozzo Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial

We dive into a wide range of intriguing topics, including the Mahabharata Reloaded, collective human behavior, the pursuit of truth, the guru-disciple relationship, the rise of alternative media, conversations with Russell Brand and Joe Rogan, the principle of dialogue, the controversial topic of Flat Earth, discovering the true self, the concept of the 4 Yugas, the nature of suffering, and a closer look at God's plan. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiReva...

In the next episode of "Thinking Bhakti," with Swami Aniruddha as our guest, we gain a deeper understanding of why Hinduism (Sanatana Dharma) has a unique approach to spirituality and also explore the importance of discipline on the path. Watch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SwamiRevatikaantaofficial