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Swami Mukundananda
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Swami Mukundananda
Global spiritual leader. Authority on mind management. IIT and IIM alumnus. Founder of JKYog. Thought leader. Vedic scholar. Bhakti saint. Bestselling author.
Swami Mukundananda is a world-renowned teacher of Spirituality, Yoga, and Meditation. He is the founder of the yogic system called JKYog also known as Yoga for the Body, Mind, and Soul. Swamiji is a unique sanyasi (monk), who has a distinguished technical and management educational background as well. He completed engineering and management from two world-renowned institutes: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and Indian Institute of Management (IIM). However, an illustrious education and a promising corporate career did not quench his thirst for knowing the Absolute Truth. The longing for God was so strong that he renounced his career and traveled throughout India as a sanyasi. During these travels, he had the opportunity to meet and interact with many great acharyas and saints, and learn about the various religious traditions and schools of philosophy in India.
Ultimately, his search took him to the lotus feet of his Spiritual Master, Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. Under the guidance of Shree Maharajji, he studied the Vedic scriptures and practiced intense sadhana. His Guru then entrusted him with the key task of propagating the ancient knowledge of the Eternal Truth all over the world. For the last three decades, Swamiji has been traveling far and wide, awakening hundreds of thousands of seekers. He has a God-gifted ability to keep all kinds of audiences enthralled and entertained through wisdom-filled anecdotes, humorous stories, and irrefutable logic. The hallmark of his lectures is the ease with which he dispels various myths and misconceptions associated with the various paths of God-realization, and his ability to penetrate even the toughest minds and convince them with depth of understanding and scriptural veracity.
Swamiji cares deeply about imparting Hindu cultural and religious values to the younger generation, especially in the West. To aid this special effort, he has conceived a special personality development program for children and young adults called "Bal-Mukund - Playground for Vedic Wisdom" (www.bal-mukund.org). It includes character building, yoga, meditation, devotional singing, cultural exposure, and religious training. Many Bal-Mukund centers have been started for the benefit of children, both in the US and in India.
For the youth, Swamiji has started the JKYog Youth Club that offers a variety of leadership training and public speaking programs. Swamiji has also conducted programs at prestigious universities, such as Duke, MIT, Princeton, Stanford, and Yale. He has been invited to speak at various Fortune 500 companies like Google, Intel, Oracle, Verizon, Yahoo, etc.
In USA, Swamiji has inspired the formation of JKYog (www.jkyog.org) and the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas (www.radhakrishnatemple.net). In India, Swamiji is the founder of many organizations with permanent centres and ashrams, such as JKYog India (www.jkyog.in), Radha Govind Dham (Delhi, www.rgdham.org), Radha Krishna Bhakti Mandir (Cuttack, Odisha) and many more. He has established the Jagadguru Kripalu Yoga and Naturopathy Hospital in Odisha (www.natural-cure.org), which is the largest of its kind in Eastern India. He is presently engaged in the construction of Jagadguru Kripalu University, Odisha (www.jkuniversity.in) on a 100 acre campus.
Shree Swamiji has inspired people all over the world, on the path of spirituality, holistic health, yoga, meditation, service to society, and God-realization. His warmth and humility touch all those who have had the fortune to have his association. In fact, his very presence radiates grace and bliss.
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BHAGAVAD GITA: THE SONG OF GOD
Swami Mukundananda
4.61
38 ratings6 reviews
The sacred Bhagavad Gita is much more than an epic for Hindus worldwide; in fact, it is the ultimate universal guide to a life of peace and fulfilment. This song of God not only provides a deeply philosophical understanding of the world, or Brahma Vidya , but it also describes clear-cut techniques to implement spiritual precepts in everyday life. This is why it is also called Yog Shastra ,which includes methodologies—karm yog, jnana yog and bhakti yog—forthe practical application of spiritual knowledge. Set in the narrative frame work of a discourse between Krishna and his disciple Arjun on the verge of the Mahabharat war, the Gita is a comprehensive and easy-to-understand summary ofthe Vedic way of life. Frozen in inaction, Arjun turns to Krishna for succour. Lord Krishna goes beyond his immediate dilemma to give Arjun aprofound discourse on life, both in theory and practice. In it, he encapsulates the essence of spirituality and virtues like courage, honour, death, love and duty. Including original Sanskrit verses, and English transliterations as well as translations,Swami Mukundananda’s commentary on the Gita contains crystal-clearexplanations, scriptural references and highly engaging stories. Through thetext of the scripture, he brings forth a treasure-chest of life lessons for us to imbibe. With his characteristic charm, Swami Mukundananda leads the reader page-by-page on the path to ever-lasting peace and happiness.
GenresReligion
871 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
This edition
Format
871 pages, Kindle Edition
Published
September 1, 2022 by Rupa Publications India
ISBN
9789355204516 (ISBN10: 9355204515)
Language
English
More editions
HardcoverWestland Publications2022
HardcoverRupa Publications India2022
HardcoverRadha Govind Dham2020
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About the author
Swami Mukundananda34 books61 followers
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
Sam
2 reviews
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January 9, 2023
The style of presentation and the commentaries are very well thought through and clear. The language is straightforward and simple which make the concepts easy to grasp, specially when compared to other works that overload the reader with too many Sanskrit terms... this approach makes the book far more approachable for a layperson. I've read through quite a few translations with commentaries, and this work is by far one of the best I've come across in recent years.
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Sachin Patil
3 reviews
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August 9, 2022
Excellent book, very good commentary with different references and stories to make understand. Helped me to understand more about life and concepts. Thank you.
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Karthik Govil
43 reviews1 follower
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February 5, 2024
Before starting, I would like to say this is not a review OF the Bhagwat Gita, but just the commentary of it by Swami Mukundananda.
Mukundananda's commentary acts as a good textual guru to guide a reader through understanding the Bhagwat Gita. His commentary is perfect for the beginner who may not know anything about Sanatan Dharm but is familiar with spirituality in general.
His approach pulls from multiple sources, both indian and outside: such as the Upanishads, the Vedas, the Manusmriti, the Ramayan, the Bible, European literature, historical figures, and many other scriptures. It may give a new person a lot of perspective and reference points to understand the Gita.
The same referencing also becomes a weakness for the commentary - sometimes it goes overboard, and one hopes it is explained as it is to them, without so much external context.
Still, it is also refreshing to see someone talk honestly and openly about the caste system in Bharat divorced from the perspective of Dulmont; a perspective that has even seeped into today's Shankaracharyas.
Overall, it's a great commentary for beginners and I myself would like to read a denser commentary after this. If anyone is Sanatan-curious, this is the place to start.
8.5-9/10
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Paula Kuklane
12 reviews
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December 26, 2023
Reading this book definitely takes time and patience. Swami Mukundananda's commentaries are clear and will help you understand the texts better.
Some thoughts on the book:
- Do your duty, but remember that the fruits of your actions are not for your enjoyment.
- Concentrate on your efforts.
- Being yourself and concentrating on your duty is more enjoyable than pretending to be someone else.
- Worldly pleasures are temporary.
- Our thoughts affect our future.
- You will have peace of mind if you accept whatever comes your way.
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Dhiraj Pashupati
1 review
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April 10, 2023
Lifesaver !!
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Amit W
12 reviews
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October 18, 2022
If you are tired of reading self-help books or think that they seem incomplete or disorganised or whatever (I do not consider them inferior), please read Bhagavad Gita once and ignore if you think the same about it. I had first read ISKCON's commentary on Bhagavad Gita (by Swami Prabhupada) but could not read it beyond 2-3 chapters. That doesn't mean it is not good. It is just that I could not comprehend it. When I accidentally read this commentary by Swami Mukundananda, I could not resist my urge to read it completely. You can read any commentary you think appropriate because the 700 shlokas are same in any book, what differs is the commentary.
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From Australia
Amrit Pai
5.0 out of 5 stars What a Book!!!! Love you SwamijiReviewed in Australia on 14 March 2023
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I have watched and read Bhagavad Gita numerous times. This book represents with more clear and comprehensive commentary by Swamiji. Shri Prabhupad commentary on Gita is great and wonderful. But Swamiji commentary gives you more examples and compare with modern age examples along with quotes and references from Indian saints.
I ordered this book after watching more than 1000 hrs of video on Gita on Swamiji channel. That inspired me to order the book which can remain with me forever and carry anywhere ai can go.
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From other countries
Soura97
5.0 out of 5 stars Grateful to find thisReviewed in the United States on 30 January 2024
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This is one of the best translation and interpretation of Bhagavad Gita. The language is easy to follow. Swami Mukundananda provided us many gems from Upanishad, Veda and Dharmapada while explaining verses. This version becomes my daily companion.
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Maneesh Singh
5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to understand the divine contentReviewed in Germany on 25 April 2023
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Hi,
Divine knowledge which is explained in easy language with examples. No money can match this knowledge.
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Bipasha Mahapatra Biswas
5.0 out of 5 stars The best bookReviewed in India on 6 March 2024
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I am speechless about this book and even say in this small lines , multiple features and a truly valuable book that I can't forgot with an good packaging.
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Siddharth A.
5.0 out of 5 stars marvelous expositionReviewed in India on 12 March 2024
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I found this Gita's interpretation to be the most accessible amongst all others I've read.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Should be one in your libraryReviewed in the United States on 25 December 2023
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I own several translations and interpretations of the Holy Gita. Swamiji has made this version easy for everyone to understand and incorporate into their daily lives. In short this has to be in your library.
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Nightdawn
5.0 out of 5 stars Three way tie: Mukundananda, Davis, ParatharasyReviewed in the United States on 17 March 2023
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Already blessed with a number of translations and commentaries of the Bhagavad-Gita, and seeing so many new commentaries appearing which are of lesser quality, I hesitated to order this edition. Researching Swami Mukundananda led me to his websites. I read his translations/commentaries there, and soon made that one of my favorite BG reference spots. Although of a different style, he is as dear to me now, as Nikhilananda, A. Paratharasy, Prabhupada, Roy Eugene Davis. His style is modern in expression and free in translation, colloquial, sensitive, rational and pragmatic, persuasive. This book is one of the six editions of the Bhagavad-Gita that I keep near me and read often.
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Deepak Shewakram
5.0 out of 5 stars Humbled to express that I am overjoyedReviewed in India on 18 February 2024
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It is an absolute joy to read the Bhagwad Geeta, compiled in English by Swami Mukundananda, an IIT; IIM. Feel absolutely humbled, and hence submit that I am blessed and really cannot claim that I am reviewing one of the greatest texts of life-lessons of all times. This treasure-book of knowledge is reasonably priced and I am thrilled to have this even though I already have an edition of 'The Bhagvad Geeta as it is' by Srila Prabhupada.
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Sara
5.0 out of 5 stars So grateful for this!Reviewed in the United States on 2 May 2023
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It's well bounded. Has a protected cover for the hard back. I was surprised at how big it is which is great. If you've ever heard Swami Mukundananda on YouTube or any other platform, I strongly suggest you go listen to him. I already have a Gita but after listening to him for a while now, I decided to buy this because his commentary is truly rich in knowledge and life application. I suggest this for all people, all faiths, all religions.
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BALAJI JEEVA
5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely a Go to bookReviewed in India on 4 February 2024
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Play VideoAnyone who wants to read Bhagavad Gita in English with proper translations and commentary, I would say this is the right book.
Swami Mukundananda's videos on YouTube clearly shows the level of his wisdom in giving the lecture and the same efforts are put in here to deliver the Bhagavad Gita wisdom clearly.
This book is of 870+ pages I'm telling you this is the best book for Bhagavad Gita if one wish to read.
I know many of us tend to buy Iskcon book but trust me guys this is the genuine wisdom delivered by Swami Mukundananda with 870+ pages of Bhagavad Gita knowledge immensely.
His teachings are always a bliss. So I would recommend for everybody. Have any doubt, once watch out his videos interpretation on YouTube you will change your mind.
I have included a video of the book with few pics so that others can see the book with fewer details. I believe this will satisfy your needs to buy this book.
This is my honest review about the book. Hope this will help and Thank you.
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Kapil
5.0 out of 5 stars Nobel Prize Winner
Reviewed in the United States on 4 April 2023
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For the first time in history, an English translation of the Gita than a reader can clearly understand and use the divine knowledge from God in everyday life. For anyone on a spiritual path, this knowledge will be a great beginning. This should be read and absorbed in the heart and then read again and again. When it comes to works written on spiritual topic in the modern era, this is by far the most important and the greatest.
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Rajan Mishra
5.0 out of 5 stars A Harmonious Blend of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Living: Unraveling the Bhagavad Gita
Reviewed in India on 6 December 2023
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The notion of discovering profound meaning in our lives, seamlessly integrating age-old wisdom with the challenges of contemporary existence, has always intrigued me. Many proclaim that true spiritual fulfillment arises when we can apply the timeless teachings of ancient texts to our daily struggles. Fortunately, Swami Mukundananda, the insightful author of 'Questions You Always Wanted to Ask,' delves into this pursuit with unparalleled depth and clarity.
Within the pages of his book, Swami Mukundananda not only explores the concept of deriving spiritual insights from the Bhagavad Gita but also provides practical steps to incorporate its teachings into our modern lives. He guides readers through the profound wisdom of the Gita, offering a roadmap to navigate the complexities of life while staying true to our spiritual core.
What sets Swami Mukundananda's approach apart is his ability to seamlessly weave together the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita with the challenges of contemporary living. By making the teachings of this ancient scripture accessible and relevant, he empowers readers to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
The Bhagavad Gita, with its profound philosophical and spiritual teachings, holds the key to unlocking the secrets of a fulfilled and purposeful existence. Swami Mukundananda's book acts as a bridge between this ancient wisdom and the modern dilemmas we face, offering a guide to applying the Gita's principles in our everyday lives.
In essence, Swami Mukundananda's work serves as a valuable connection between the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the complexities of modern existence, providing a pathway to spiritual growth and fulfillment in our contemporary world.
5 people found this helpful
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sakar p.
5.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive explanation with lots of love by Swamiji
Reviewed in the United States on 15 December 2022
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I will say it is one of the best Gita commentaries out there. Swamiji is such a learned, humble, and loving devotee of Shri Radha Krishna. You can experience the depth of his knowledge and devotion from this commentary.
I still repeat chapters from time to time and get awestruck by the sheer amount of sweet details Swamiji has poured into this commentary of Geeta. After reading the book, I understood how difficult it is to comprehend the philosophy of Gita without a learned scholar shedding his perspective from his direct experience. Swamiji has been able to do all of that and more.
Much love Swami ji!
Radhe Radhe!!
4 people found this helpful
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S.N. Sri krishna
5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to understand
Reviewed in India on 26 February 2024
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Quality of the paper is absolutely great, weight of the book is very less and easy to understand.
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Mohan B
4.0 out of 5 stars Simple and Easily Written Explanations
Reviewed in India on 11 June 2023
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The commentary on BHAGAVAD GITA by Swami
Mukundananda is very fast readable book. The explanations given in the book is very easily understandable. Swamiji had taken efforts to give the meanings of the verses in a simple way so that ordinary citizens like us can comprehend the deepest meanings of the verses in the Gita.
It is a must book to be read by all of us.
4 people found this helpful
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So
5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you team
Reviewed in the United States on 3 February 2023
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I want to thank the seller team for their excellent customer service and kind gesture in sending me another copy without charging as the original delivery got misplaced.
The translation by swamiji is beautiful and always by my side while I am at work. Highly recommend this beautiful work by swamiji.
To the Seller team - thank you for your prompt response time and for sending me the second copy. I wish you the very best, you are doing great Krishna service.
May you be blessed
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mahesha s
5.0 out of 5 stars Much needed for a healthy mind
Reviewed in India on 7 January 2024
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Bhagawad Gita is a much read book with commentaries by so many people. I found this commentary by Swamy Mukundananda to be the best. It has balanced views and helps one understand the concepts very well. The format of shlok in Sanskrit followed by same in English script makes it easy to read for those who are not familiar with Devnagari. I found the English translation that follows to be very accurate. The commentary that follows after each shlok not only helps one understand the meaning, one can derive his own impression after reading it. Thank you so much for publishing this.
2 people found this helpful
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Abhishek Das
3.0 out of 5 stars Okay-ish.
Reviewed in the United States on 23 October 2023
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I respect SwamiJi's expositions on ShrimadBhagavad Gita. But authors from some Vaishnava Sampradaya have a tendency to mis-translate and mis-interpret "yoga" as "bhakti-yoga" in ShrimadBhagavad Gita. Take for exampe verse 1 of Chapter 7. I would have appreciated more if SwamiJi hd not repeat the culpable mistakes of Shrila Prabhupad. Shrila Prabhupad and ISKCON essentially disseminated wrong interpretation of Gita worldwide. What an insult of the Lord of the Universe by his so called devotees. May Lord Krishn bless them with Subuddhi.
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Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Most relevant Gita interpretation
Reviewed in India on 9 February 2024
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I read many versions of Gita, but nothing like this one
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Sidhesh Ganeriwala
5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita
Reviewed in India on 15 January 2024
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This is one of the best and we'll explained interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita that I have read. The author (Swami Mukund ananda) has also referred to other texts of Hinduism and sometimes even Buddhism to explain the concepts.
If you're looking for an easy to read but comprehensive version of the Bhagavad Gita, would highly suggest this.
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