We are blessed to have a rich heritage of teachings – within our scriptures. Explained to us by our teachers or Acharyas. The Sreemad Bhagwad Geeta – is among the most beloved of Indian scriptures.
About the Bhagwad Geeta
Narrated in intricate detail within the framework of a complex story involving the lives of the Pandavas and Kauravas – set amidst the culmination of the results of their actions on the 
battlefield of Kurukshetra – its wisdom is relevant even today.
Not many of us are aware that Mahatma Gandhi is known to have turned to the Geeta for guidance – as he shares in his words here ” When doubts haunt me, when disappointments stare at me in the face- and I see not one ray of hope on the horizon, I turn to the Bhagwad Geeta and find a verse to comfort me ; and I immediately begin to smile in the midst of overwhelming sorrow. Those who meditate on the Geeta – will derive fresh joy and new meanings from it every day. ”
The Bhagwad Geeta in my Life
I personally have gravitated towards reading this scripture only some years ago, with the passage of life, during which I saw the growth of my family and fulfillment of my goals. After I experienced challenges – I went about looking for ways and means to resolve them. Then material things became less important – and I sought ways in which to become peaceful and contented from within.
Having earlier learnt about the Bhagwad Geeta and its teachings in a sporadic fashion – I undertook to study and make these teachings taught by the ultimate Acharya himself – as my life’s guide.
I find these teachings to be a comprehensive guide on how to deal with life and its challenges. Since human beings remain unchanged at a fundamental level – the teachings of the Bhagwad Geeta are relevant even today as they seek to connect the cognitive and intellectual parts of ourselves with spiritual and our soul-centric selves.
I have learnt that our Self ( Atma ) is part of the Supreme Self ( Paramatma ). The nature of the Supreme Self comprises of Bliss ( Ananda ) – and it is because our individual Self is part of the Supreme Self – we humans strive to become happy and to be in a state of eternal bliss.
Our Spiritual Masters and scriptures teach that we cannot find true bliss ( Ananda ) in the external world. True and everlasting bliss lies within our inner selves. And it may only be gained through consistent, sincere effort through wisdom, meditation and divine grace.
My humble effort to find true bliss is enabled by my study of the Bhagwad Geeta – and my effort to put its teachings into daily practice. The three most crucial teachings from the Bhagwad Geeta that work for me and add meaning to my life are as follows:
Our soul is all powerful and while it inhabits our body during our lives – it also is part of the Supreme Self. As are all those who are around us. As long as we look beyond their limitations, failings and imperfections and see them, too, as part of the same Supreme Self – we have the capability to develop a sense of love, respect and compassion for them. Thus enabling us to live a life filled with peace, joy and gratitude. This is the practice of Sankhya Yoga that integrates mind, soul and body.
The ability to fulfill one’s earthly duties without a sense of obligation and expectation is what comprises karma yoga. It is the path of unselfish action – where one must act according to the laws of Dharma without thinking of the results of one’s actions. The ability to selflessly perform one’s duty while enjoying every part of journey – since it is service to one’s self and to the divine within – is what creates an ultimate sense of fulfillment which is not impacted by results – be they positive or negative.
This is where one focuses on loving devotion towards one’s personal God. The God could be anyone that the devotee would like to worship. Performing worship happens not just through rituals – but by living life with a complete sense of faith. Having a sense of belief that God or the Supreme Self is there to help us address challenges and bring us to a resolution that will make things better than before – is what Bhakti Yoga is all about.
My study of the Bhagwad Geeta gives clarity to my thought process, my actions and to my life. It helps me to connect with both the outside world and with my inner self. I have found that it enables me to achieve balance and peace of mind. I find that the logic and knowledge inherent in its every word, makes it a timeless guide – even though it was written many millennia ago.
Assimilating the teachings of the Bhagwad Geeta into our lives will encourage the habit of self-inquiry and guide us towards adopting a pragmatic yet fulfilling approach to life – and enabling one to manifest that as well.
