Overview This podcast series presents the English explanation of Rājayogasārasūtram, a Sanskrit aphoristic work composed by Mahātapasvin Kāvyakaṇṭha Vasiṣṭha Śrī Gaṇapati Muni. It is a detailed exposition on authentic Vedic Yogic Tapasya methods. In response to a student's sincere request for clarity amidst the confusion of modern yogic paths, the Muni composed this structured text during the early 20th century. The work is divided into eight sections (khaṇḍas), each systematically explaining one or more methods of Tapasya (spiritual austerity), aligning fully with the teachings of the Upaniṣads and the inner experience of the seers. What Listeners Will Discover? 1st Khaṇḍa – Tapobhūmikātraya Introduction of three progressive stages of Tapasya: Initiation through internal japa or sound (mantra and prāṇa link) Concentrated visualisation Deep absorption in the inner substratum This chapter lays the foundational methods for all further sādhanā. 2nd Khaṇḍa – Udgītha Vidyā Detailed presentation of Omkāra (Udgītha) as the central upāya Connection between prāṇa and udgītha Inner japa and resonance of Om for ascending the mind inward 3rd Khaṇḍa – Prāṇayoga Vidyā Techniques of inner breath realisation Visualising prāṇa as divine effulgence Dissolving the ‘I’ through the prāṇic path and understanding the apex of samvit 4th Khaṇḍa – Antarmārga Describes Suṣumnā-based antar-yoga or inner path Uses kriyā-śakti through various prāṇic motions (like udāna, vyāna) A highly practical method for experienced aspirants 5th Khaṇḍa – Paścānmārga Reverse application of the kriyā śakti – through withdrawal (nirodha) Advanced methods to lead prāṇa into the bindu and dissolve tendencies Practiced in advanced niṣṭhā within the heart cave 6th Khaṇḍa – Pūrvamārga The anterior path for dissolving vṛttis and false identification Importance of using pure icchā-śakti to stop the flow of mental distractions 7th Khaṇḍa – Drk, Drashta, Drsya Vidyā Exposition of three profound dhyāna vidyās: Focusing on ākāśa between the seer and the seen (Akāśa Udgītha Vidyā) Focusing on the seer (draṣṭā) alone (Akṣipurusha Vidyā) Focusing on drk (pure seeing consciousness) alone (Akṣipurusha Vidyā) All three paths converge in heart-based niṣṭhā 8th Khaṇḍa – Vicāra Vidyā Final and highest path: ātma-vicāra or Self-enquiry Reveals the Upaniṣadic Dahara Vidyā Explains Aham-sphoorti, the origin of the ‘I’-sense The inner fire of enquiry breaks the three granthis (knots) Reaches culmination in the dissolution of the Abhimāna-granthi (chit-knot) Why You Should Listen? Offers the most structured and experiential guide to authentic Yogic Tapasya Entirely based on the Upaniṣadic foundation and personal realisation of Gaṇapati Muni Clarifies key metaphysical concepts like prāṇa, jñāna, icchā, kriyā śakti, suṣumnā, antar-mārga, and niṣṭhā Helps resolve common sādhanā challenges through precise spiritual upāyas Includes real-life experiential commentary by Śrī Surya Phani Madhav Guruji, who presents these insights in lucid English (and also in Telugu) A rare, transformative podcast for serious spiritual aspirants, advanced yogis, and students of Vedānta alike Subscribe and Support Join our Patreon community to access exclusive content, receive early access to episodes, and support the ongoing translation and dissemination of Gaṇapati Muni’s rare works.
Rachakonda Sri Surya Phani Madhav
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