Editor’s notes: 

What is Ashtavakra Gita?
The Ashtavakra Gita illuminates an ancient conversation between the sage Ashtavakra and Janaka, a king with both worldly responsibilities and deep spiritual questioning about the nature of reality. “What is real?” Janaka asks. So begins one of the most unique conversations to ever take place on this planet, as Ashtavakra takes Janaka by the hand and leads him step by step into deeper levels of understanding until enlightenment dawns.

In a series of 33 talks, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar shares, step-by-step, how King Janaka is taken to deeper levels of understanding and how this knowledge can be applied to your own life. The commentary unlocks this ancient mystical scripture to come alive in our modern lives.

The Ashtavakra Gita examines the mind, ego, conflict, and the self with the unparalleled insight and depth that only a master can offer. Gurudev skillfully weaves together ancient knowledge, classic stories, and practical wisdom into captivating talks, making the Ashtavakra Gita an invaluable tool and companion for the earnest seeker of truth.

You can access all of Gurudev’s talks on Ashtavakra Gita with an Art of Living Journey Membership. 

Here are 14 of the most profound insights from Gurudev’s commentary on Ashtavakra Gita.

Dropping the sorrow

Gurudev quote sorrow

Untouched by events

Gurudev quote pleasures

Your true nature

Gurudev quote true nature

Events come and go

Gurudev quote karma

Too many desires

Gurudev quote desires

A lucky blessing

Gurudev quote boredom

You are loved

Gurudev quote letting go

The Divine dwells in every heart

The Divine dwells in every heart

You are not the doer

Gurudev quote doer

Events are happenings

Gurudev quote liberation

Joy is your nature

Gurudev quote joy

Observe sensations

Gurudev quote pain

Peace is your nature

Gurudev quote peace

Don’t be unhappy

Gurudev quote unhappy

Art of Living
Part I

Discover Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s ancient secret to modern well-being

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