Thinking Bhakti
Thinking Bhakti explores the intersection of the bhakti tradition with modern issues. Hosted by Swami Revatikaanta, a monk and disciple of Paramahamsa Vishwananda, the podcast offers insightful discussions for spiritual seekers and those curious about faith and current affairs. With a sharp intellect and straightforward approach, Swamjii and guests tackle intellectual challenges through the lens of Paramahamsa Vishwananda's teachings.
Episodes
Stop Optimizing Your Life for Pleasure! | Śreyas vs. Preyas
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.D
Can Numerology Help You Find Your Life Purpose? | Thinking Bhakti Ep. 44
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
What Kind of God Do You Actually Believe In?
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
If All Religions Have Miracles, Are They All True?
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)
Understanding the “God Molecule”: The Service of Kambo & Bufo | Thinking Bhakti Ep. 43
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, highligh
The Real Reason Your Spiritual Practice Feels Empty
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 i
The Rationalist vs. The Poet: Why Logic Isn’t Enough for a Relationship with God
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 wisd
Is Physical Yoga Compatible With Traditional Bhakti? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP42
Bhakti Yoga Changed My LifeIn 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.Bha
Paramahamsa Vishwananda's Cousin Relates Incredible Stories | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP41
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,
Building A Temple for Lord Narasimha in New York | Thinking Bhakti EP40
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 Pa
Why a Scientist Left Academia in Search of the Truth | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP38
From Neuroscience to the Ashram: Swami Anashuya’s Unconventional JourneyIn 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 practice
Hinduism in the West with Pandit Krishna Kripa Dasa | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP37
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 impo
Becoming Yourself Through Music | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP36
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
The History & Evolution of Yoga | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP35
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 struc
The Need to Say No | Swami Revatikaanta
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 th
How Did Bhakti Marga Begin? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP34
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 h
Karma, Caste & Hindu Proselytisation - Analyzing Cliffe & Stuart Knechtle Part 2
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
Making the Ramayana a Reality - Back to Ayodhya Book Launch | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP33
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
Growing Up In Bhakti Marga | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP31
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
How To Master Your Mind | Swami Revatikaanta
From Worst Enemy to Best FriendNavigating 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
The Problem with New Age Spirituality | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP30
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
Defining the Categories of Reality - Tādātmya Vedānta Series 3/3 | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP29
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 ultimat
The Vedanta of Paramahamsa Vishwananda - Tadatmya Vedanta Series 2/3 | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP28
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 e
The ‘Sampradaya Game’ - Tadatmya Vedanta Series 1/3 | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP27
Sampradāya PoliticsThe 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 tr
The Challenges of the Guru-Disciple Relationship | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP26
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 di
Letting Go of Expectations & Attachments in the Pursuit of Truth | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP25
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
Vaishnava Unity & Spiritual Maturity with Swami Bhakti Vedanta Muni Maharaj | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP24
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 Bhakt
Why Sharing Your Spiritual Experiences Matters | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP23
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
Why Serve a Guru? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP22
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
Can Hinduism, Islam and Christianity co-exist in harmony? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP21
The Problem With Exclusivity DoctrinesIn 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
Striving For A Meaningful Life | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP20
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
Taking Risks And Trusting God | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP19
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 journ
Presenting Vaishnavism in the West with Hridayananda Das Goswami | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP18
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 fr
From Portuguese National Team Coach To Bhakti Yogi | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP17
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 impro
Sanskrit and Spirituality: The Language of Hindu Scripture | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP16
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, Sanskr
Hitting Our Limits - The Call for Grace | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP15
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
The Role of Knowledge in the Path of Bhakti | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP14
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 Veda
Living Fully - Embracing Both Material Success and Spiritual Depth | Thinking Bhakti EP13
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 t
The Case For Vegetarianism | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP12
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 v
How Do We Recognise Divinity? | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP10
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 p
Growing Up In ISKCON | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP11
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
Eastern vs. Western Philosophies | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP9
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 Thi
The Best Spiritual Practice for Our Times | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP8
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 attrib
Being a Hindu in the West | Thinking Bhakti Podcast
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
Fame, Career & Spirituality | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP6
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/@StefanoTiozzoWatch Thinking Bhakti on YouTube:https:/
The Rise of Alternative Media & Conspiracies | Thinking Bhakti Podcast EP5
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 clos
Why Choose Hinduism: The Spiritual Evolution | Thinking Bhakti Podcast
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
The Reality Behind the Traditions | Thinking Bhakti Podcast
The Truth about SampradayasIn the next episode of "Thinking Bhakti," we lift the veil on Hindu traditions and discuss elements that many are aware of but haven't been publicly addressed. How have traditions changed in modern times? Is Shastra 100% reliable? What defines a bonafide sampradaya, and does such a thing even exist? Do scriptures contain interpolations, and is there only
Social Media and Spiritual Life | Thinking Bhakti Podcast
In our second episode, we explore the intricate relationship between social media and our spiritual journey. Join us as we delve deep into the impact of social media on our lives, unveiling its profound effects, both positive and negative. We discover in how much it binds us to our desires and learn which social media platform might just be the devil in disguise.Stick around until the end as we ve
Cults & Sects Explored | Thinking Bhakti Podcast
A thought-provoking journey with our inaugural podcast episode. We delve deep into the intriguing concept of Bhakti Marga: is it a sect or not? Unraveling its origins and significance in today's spiritual landscape.Do we truly need religious institutions in our lives, or does spirituality extend beyond organized structures? Our exploration delves into the intricate world of cults and sects, e
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