When my husband got this book, I got furious as I doubted if he has got plans to tread in spiritual path renouncing his family life due to my never ending demands and complaints…. But slowly I am realizing the truth that Spiritualism is not just about renouncing worldly pleasures and running to Himalayas or hiding in some place, escaping from our duties in search of peace. It is not also about only Idol worship. It involves advanced science of mind and body control and great learning. I would say this book is only for persons who are already into spiritualism understanding the right meaning of it. It would be very difficult to appreciate the great learning Swami Rama is sharing with us in this book, if we are so naïve to the world of spiritualism.
Swami Rama,the founder of Himalayan International Institute of Yoga Science and Philosophy, takes us back to his childhood days asking all questions like what these yogis do by mediating for so long? Why do they waste their time and energy sitting in some remote place of Himalayas? How did they learn all tantras and mantras and why should they learn this if they are yogis…and many more. His master was so nice to him and gave him time to realize and appreciate the essence of spiritualism by himself. He takes us through each phase of his life in a very interesting way sharing his experiences with great spiritual personalities.
Bharata, one of the Sanskrit names for India comes from Bharati( Bha-knowledge, rati-lover) meaning lover of knowledge. India has got great learned sages who have preached us many ways to achieve enlightenment. Unfortunately we just follow the unwanted part of it and fight for religions and caste which will take us nowhere. Swami Rama explains the various paths to attain enlightenment - Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Raja Yoga, Sri Vidya. He also explains the beauty of Himalayas and other spiritual places in India. I came to know the truth that these sages are highly learned people and they have immense power in them. Spiritualism is not meant only for people who are counting their last days; it is for each and every person who is really keen to live a happy meaningful life. It is the answer to the questions -Who am I? What is my responsibility in this world? What is the meaning of life?
It is a way to understand your inner self. The yoga system of Patanjali with meditation and vegetarian style of living can make a drastic change in our lives.
To summarize it is a book giving intricate details about the various paths of enlightenment in a very light way. It’s a must read for those interested in spiritualism.