Samanvaya (Reconciliation) of Advaita, Viśiṣṭādvaita, and Dvaita

Vedānta is the corpus of knowledge at the end of the Vedas. These are the Upaniṣad. These are the core texts capturing revelations by Ṛṣis. Bhagavad Gītā as part of Mahābhārata is the second important text to put the Upanishadic knowledge in the context of human life. The Brahma Sūtra written by sage Bādārayaṇa summarizes the teachings of Vedānta in the form of short statements. Upaniṣad, Bhagavad Gītā, and Brahma Sūtra are called “Prasthānatrayī” – the trinity of Hindu thought. Various ācāryas have been writing the interpretations of the Upaniṣad, Bhagavad Gītā, and Brahma Sūtra giving rise to multiple schools of Vedānta. Upanishadic thought means the relationship of jīva (living beings), jagat (the physical world around the living beings – matter), and Īśvara (Sat-Cit-Ānanda Ātman) with each other. For these three entities (jīva, jagat, Īśvara) various possibilities of relationships emerge. Out of those, the following 3 are the most prominent-

1. Jīva, jagat, and Īśvara as being one (abheda) – nondual or Advaita.
2. Jīva, jagat, and Īśvara are fundamentally different and do not merge into each other (bheda)– dual or Dvaita.
3. Jīva, jagat, and Īśvara being one under specific conditions and being different under specific conditions – Viśiṣṭādvaita.

Sri Śaṅkarācārya (8^th century) is the most prominent proponent of Advaita. Sri Rāmāṉujācārya (11^th century) was for Viśiṣṭādvaita and Sri Madhvācārya (13^th century) was the proponent of Dvaita. Each of them humbly says that they are merely interpreting the Vedānta and Bhagavad Gītā and not the founders of each school. As per them, their view is firmly established in Vedānta and supported by Bhagavad Gītā. If we look at the core principles of each of the schools, it feels that each school is showing a new path different from each other. Our common experience is that Hindus subscribe to these schools and vehemently ground themselves in their schools. Śaiva, Vaiṣṇava, and Śakta Saṃpradāya worship Śiva, Viṣṇu or Kṛṣṇa, and Goddess Śakti respectively in various forms. It means each of the forms for their Saṃpradāyas is the ultimate form of truth.

A historical perspective shows that Viśiṣṭādvaita came out as a critic of Advaita and later Dvaita came out as a critic of both Advaita and Viśiṣṭādvaita. This gives a view that the three schools of Vedānta have so many differences that it is not possible to reconcile those as consistent with one another.

After understanding the core tenets of each school and considering that Advaita came first, followed by Viśiṣṭādvaita and then Dvaita, I feel that each of the schools of Vedānta is a continuation of the same thought of achieving Muktī – freedom from suffering and freedom from the cycle of rebirth. Each ācārya guides us to take the path that they propounded in the light of the Upaniṣad and Bhagavad Gītā (only Sri Śaṅkarācārya wrote a commentary on Brahma Sūtra).

Evolution of Vedic Thought

The early Upaniṣads were revealed to ṛṣis and were written 7,000 years ago. The original Vedic thought originated at least 1,000 to 1,500 years before the Upaniṣads. The original Vedic thought worshiped Indra, Varuṇa, Soma, and other devatas of nature. Various rituals and sacrifices were at the core of the Vedic life and were meant to deliver a happy and prosperous life in terms of progeny and wealth during life and svarga (after life). Slowly Vedic thought evolved beyond the rituals and sacrifices. Vedic thought evolved to describe

the limits of the rituals and sacrifices to achieve truth and peace – the Sat-Cit-Ānanda Ātman. Muṇḍaka Upaniṣad 1.2.12 says –

परीक्ष्य लोकान् कर्मचितान् ब्रह्मणो निर्वेदमायान्नास्त्यकृतः कृतेन ।

तद्विज्ञानार्थं स गुरुमेवाभिगच्छेत् समित्पाणिः श्रोत्रियं ब्रह्मनिष्ठम् ॥ १२ ॥

A mature human being (in worldly affairs) resorts to renunciation after examining the worlds, acquired through karma, with the help of this maxim: the uncreated (eternal/reality) is not accomplished by karma. For knowing that reality he should go to the Guru with samidhā in hand.

It is a common experience of any mature person who has some experience of the world, that any amount of fulfillment of desires does not generate a lasting peace and freedom from suffering. The desires keep changing and new desires keep developing. So, in such situations, the mature person surrenders to the Guru who is well-versed in Brahmavidyā. This Upanishadic thought did not hinder the rituals and sacrifices but provided a new meaning of Mukti. Now it was no longer related to going to svarga by practicing sacrifices but freedom from suffering in human life and freedom from the cycle of birth-growth-death. Taittirīya Upaniṣad (Brahmānanda Vallī) 2.1.1 says- ब्रह्मविदाप्नोति परम् । तदेषाऽभ्युक्ता । सत्यं ज्ञानमनन्तं ब्रह्म । यो वेद निहितं गुहायां परमे व्योमन्‌। सोऽश्नुते सर्वान्‌ कामान् सह ब्रह्मणा विपश्चितेति॥ The knower of Brahman attains the highest. Here is the verse about that very fact: “Brahman is satya, jñāna and ananda. He who knows that Brahman as existing in the intellect, lodged in the supreme space in the heart, enjoys, as identified with the all-knowing Brahman, all desirable things simultaneously.” Here Vedānta reveals that path of freedom from suffering in human life while continuing to follow worldly engagements. The human needs to understand his or her connection with the physical world, other living beings, and the ultimate truth – Brahman. Various Upaniṣads provide different models of the origin of jagat (physical world), jīva (all living creatures), and Brahman.  Chāndogyopaniṣad in 6.2.3 describes बहु स्यां प्रजायेयेति – It (Being, or Brahman) thought: ‘May I be many; may I grow forth.’ So, Brahman had a thought and it decided to become many and from there, the origin of jagat and jīva started.  This is like Nāsadīya Sūkta (Ṛgveda 10.129) कामस्तदग्रे समवर्तताधि मनसो रेतः प्रथमं यदासीत्। – “In the beginning, desire descended on It (Brahman), that was the primal seed, born of the mind.” Brahman had a desire to create the jagat and jīva. This desire can be termed as māyā the Śakti that created everything including time and space. This is explained in Muṇḍaka Upaniṣad in 1.1.7 as – यथोर्णनाभिः सृजते गृह्णते च यथा पृथिव्यामोषधयः संभवन्ति। यथा सतः पुरुषात्‌ केशलोमानि तथाऽक्षरात्‌ संभवतीह विश्वम्‌ ॥ “As the spider puts out and gathers in, as herbs spring up upon the earth, as hair of head and body grow from a living man, so here all is born from the Immutable (i.e., Brahman).” In summary, Vedānta through various Upaniṣads reveal the connection between the physical world (jagat), living beings (jīva), and Īśvara (Brahman). Now comes the Bhagavad Gītā. Ācārya Madhusudana Saraswati praises Bhagavad Gītā in his Gītā dhyānam – सर्वोपनिषदो गावो दोग्धा गोपालनन्दनः| पार्थो वत्सः सुधीर्भोक्ता दुग्धं गीतामृतं महत्|| “All the Upaniṣads are the cows and Kṛṣṇa is the one who milks them. Arjuna is the calf; the devotees are the consumers of the great nectar of Gita.”. Bhagavad Gītā provides a systematic path to understanding the Upaniṣads and implementing the revelations of the Upaniṣads in the daily life of devotees to free oneself from suffering. Kṛṣṇa – the Īśvara – incarnation of Brahman – says following ते तं भुक्त्वा स्वर्गलोकं विशालं क्षीणे पुण्ये मर्त्यलोकं विशन्ति । एवं त्रयीधर्ममनुप्रपन्ना गतागतं कामकामा लभन्ते ॥ ९-२१ ॥ “After having enjoyed that vast svargaloka, their puṇya is exhausted, and they re-enter into martyalokam (human world). Thus, those who follow the rituals and sacrifices prescribed in the three Vedas – merely the Vedic rites and duties; are desirous of pleasures. They attain only the state of going and returning (from svarga to this world – rebirth cycle), but never that of mokṣa.” In 5.29 Kṛṣṇa says – भोक्तारं यज्ञतपसां सर्वलोकमहेश्वरम्। सुहृदं सर्वभूतानां ज्ञात्वा मां शान्तिमृच्छति।।5.29।। “One attains Peace by knowing Me who, as the great Lord of all the worlds, am the enjoyer of sacrifices and austerities, (and) who am the friend of all creatures.” With multiple such references across Bhagavad Gītā, it becomes clear that Kṛṣṇa provides clarity on Mukti. If one follows the Vedic rituals and sacrifices, one will reach svargaloka but will eventually have to reenter jagat. If one worships Kṛṣṇa, one will attain peace – peace from cycles of birth, growth, death, and suffering. In other words, this reflects the entire Vedic teaching. The Pūrva Bhāg of Veda (Mīmāṃsā) deals with the rituals and sacrifices that take one to svarga and the evolution of Vedic thought through Upaniṣads provides the path of true happiness – Sat-Cit-Ānanda. So, are these 2 separate paths for the devotees? The answer is no. The path that the devotee takes depends on his or her readiness of mind through three Guṇas (satva, rajas, tamas) and free will – the choice of actions one wants to exercise while choosing the path. Now with this background, we can go back to the three ācāryas.

Vedānta Schools: Sri Śaṅkarācārya, Sri Rāmāṉujācārya, and Sri Madhvācārya

Note that none of the Ācārya says that they are teaching their “school”, but they say that they are teaching Vedānta. It becomes puzzling and unsettling to know that each of the Ācāryas has interpreted the same Upaniṣad and Bhagavad Gita differently in many aspects while having few commonalities.

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The World Association for Vedic Studies (WAVES) conference hosted an insightful panel discussion on the ongoing challenges in Ayurveda, particularly addressing the dietary conflicts and integration issues with modern day life, as well as co-existence with Western medicine. Moderated by Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman from the field of integrative healthcare, the panel brought together esteemed experts, including Dr. Bal Ram Singh, Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, and Dr. Vandana Baranwal, to explore the deeper epistemological conflicts, regulatory disparities, and modern challenges facing Ayurveda today.

One of the plenary talks at the WAVES conference focused on the ongoing conflict between Patanjali Ayurveda and the Indian Medical Association (IMA), delving into the epistemological differences between Ayurveda and modern medicine. The talk also discussed the implications of India’s National Education Policy (NEP), which aims to integrate Ayurveda and modern medical education, sparking debates among healthcare professionals.

This blog will explore key insights from the panel and the talk, focusing on dietary conflicts in Ayurveda, the struggle between traditional and modern medical systems, particularly the conflict between Ayurveda and the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and ways forward in reconciling these approaches.

Meet the Panelists

The panel was moderated by Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman who is a Duke Integrative Healthcare Leader and the Founder of Ayurveda Living. With his background in integrative medicine, Dr. Seetharaman provides a balanced perspective on merging traditional and modern health systems. His work and experience span the United States and India, and currently serves as a faculty at the Hindu University of America (HUA). The panel included:

• Dr. Bal Ram Singh, a renowned professor and researcher with expertise in both modern biochemistry and Ayurvedic biotechnology. His work on neurotoxins and consciousness research, as well as his editorial roles in various journals, positions him as a thought leader in integrative medicine.
• Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, a dedicated Ayurveda Vaidya, brings years of practical experience in Panchakarma, metabolic and lifestyle disorder treatments. Her scholarly background combined with her compassionate practice exemplifies the holistic nature of Ayurveda.
• Dr. Vandana Baranwal, a specialist in women’s health, draws from her deep Vedic roots in Varanasi. She has pioneered women’s wellness solutions through personalized Ayurvedic care, furthering the intersection of traditional wisdom and modern health issues.
  

Ayurvedic Dietary Conflicts: A Key Focus

The panel delved deeply into dietary conflicts in Ayurveda, particularly how globalization and migration create challenges for Ayurvedic principles related to food. According to Ayurveda, food is considered medicine, and diet must align with an individual’s Prakriti (constitution), age, gender, and environmental factors like the season and local ecosystem.

However, when people relocate—whether for education, work, or other reasons—their new surroundings might not provide access to region-specific Ayurvedic diets. For instance, individuals from India moving to colder, non-tropical climates face challenges in following the same dietary principles prescribed in their native regions. Additionally, the influx of genetically engineered foods and non-native food choices further complicates adherence to Ayurvedic dietary recommendations. The panel discussed how food grown in different regions has different Prabhava (inherent properties), which might not suit an individual’s constitution when consumed in foreign lands.

The WAVES Ayurveda panel discussion explored how Ayurveda can contribute to the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), particularly through the lens of dietary practices. The discussion focused on how Ayurvedic texts, like Charak Samhita and Sushrut Samhita, remain relevant today for their holistic approach to health, though the challenge lies in adapting these principles for global contexts. Panelists questioned whether current Ayurveda training includes sufficient practice of historical texts to verify ancient practices and discussed the incorporation of cultural foods from around the world into Ayurveda’s predominantly Indian framework. The relevance of understanding regional variations in fruits, grains, milk, and condiments, all of which differ globally, was also addressed. By broadening the scope of Ayurveda to include food diversity, the panel emphasized the need for evolving Ayurvedic guidelines to support the health of a truly global family.

Ayurveda vs. Indian Medical Association (IMA): A Broader Conflict

Another significant part of the Waves Conference was the plenary talk on the growing conflict between Ayurveda and modern medicine, exemplified by the ongoing disputes between Ayurveda practitioners and the Indian Medical Association (IMA). One of the critical issues is that a substantial number of BAMS graduates (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) are transitioning to modern medical practices rather than sticking to traditional Ayurveda. This trend is partly because the BAMS curriculum has been modeled on the MBBS curriculum, leading to a dilution of Ayurvedic principles in education and professional practice.

The IMA has raised concerns over Ayurvedic treatments being promoted without the same rigorous clinical trials and peer-reviewed research demanded in allopathic medicine. The most publicized of these disputes involved Patanjali Ayurved’s Coronil, which was initially marketed as a COVID-19 cure, leading to a legal confrontation with the IMA. The Drugs & Magical Remedies Act, 1954 and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, further complicate the issue, as they emphasize stringent regulatory standards that Ayurveda often struggles to meet due to its reliance on traditional and historical knowledge.

Conflicts in India’s National Education Policy (NEP): Ayurveda and Modern Medicine

India’s National Education Policy (NEP) seeks to integrate Ayurveda into mainstream medical education, which has sparked diverse reactions across the healthcare sector. AYUSH practitioners welcome this development, seeing it as a formal recognition of traditional medicine’s importance in promoting holistic health. However, some allopathic doctors and the Indian Medical Association (IMA) have expressed concerns, fearing the policy might create “official quacks” by blending traditional medicine with modern medical practices without ensuring the same level of scientific validation. Additionally, some scientists argue that the NEP’s emphasis on integrating alternative medicine could compromise the advancement of modern medical research, if not properly regulated through clinical trials and evidence-based standards. This highlights the challenge in balancing traditional knowledge with modern healthcare while ensuring both maintain high standards of practice.

The Fundamental Epistemological Differences

A significant theme in the panel discussion was the epistemological differences between Ayurveda and modern medicine. Ayurveda’s holistic approach focuses on maintaining balance in the body, mind, and spirit through proper diet, lifestyle, and herbal treatments. On the other hand, modern medicine adopts a more reductionist, symptom-focused approach, diagnosing and treating specific ailments through pharmaceuticals and surgery. This fundamental divergence in worldview creates barriers to integration, as Ayurveda’s preventive care and lifestyle management contrast with the intervention-based approach of modern medicine.

Path Forward: Reconciling Ayurveda and Modern Medicine

Here are some recommendations for resolving these conflicts:

• Scientific Validation of Ayurvedic Practices: There is a need for more clinical trials and research to validate Ayurvedic treatments within the framework of modern science. Integrative research centers can bridge this gap.
• Customized Diet Plans: The discussion underscored the importance of creating regionally adaptable, Ayurvedic dietary plans that consider the local ecosystem and the evolving nature of food production.
• Educational Reform: The BAMS curriculum should include a deeper focus on Ayurveda’s philosophical foundations, ensuring graduates have a stronger grounding in traditional knowledge.
• Open Dialogue Between Systems: Finally, fostering collaboration between Ayurvedic practitioners and modern medical professionals through platforms like WAVES can promote mutual respect and shared goals.

Conclusion

This panel discussion at the WAVES conference and the plenary talk highlighted the complexities and ongoing challenges in Ayurveda, in its Practice, Education and Research, apart from issues in integrating with modern medicine, particularly in light of dietary conflicts, educational reforms, and the regulatory landscape in India. By addressing these issues through open dialogue and integrative research, both systems can contribute to a more holistic and balanced approach to global healthcare.

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President of HUA Kalyan Viswanathan gave a presentation that punctuated Saturday’s program, Director of Outreach Ankur Patel spoke on a panel on youth engagement during the day, Dr. Madhu Sharma presented on her continuing work on Hindu Chaplaincy, while many students, faculty, and friends of HUA attended and participated, including Chairman of the Board Dr. Jashvant Patel.

From September 29th to October 1st, the Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference featured a range of Hindu leaders addressing many issues, challenges, and opportunities. Pointedly, the last session of the conference was the inauguration of Hindu Heritage Month.

The HMEC has become a key opportunity for mandirs across North America to come together and share best practices, strategies, and concerns. An initiative of Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America, the rebranded Hindu Mandir Empowerment Council is an important and overdue step in the Hindu movement. Spearheaded by Smt. Tejal Shah, many prominent members of the Hindu community eloquently presented on a wide range of topics.

Over 500 mandirs from across North America have participated in this rotating conference with 51 mandirs actively participating in this year’s HMEC.

President of HUA, Shri Kalyan Viswanathan gave a poignant and persuasive presentation on Saturday morning that left participants aware of the important mission and recognizing the purpose of Hindu University of America. “There is no doubt that HUA has acquired more mind space in the HMEC”, Kalyanji.

The conference provided HUA an opportunity to share information about our many initiatives aimed at engaging and synergistically working with the robust network of temples and mandirs across America. Some of the specific initiatives that gained traction include the Hindu Living initiative, the Bhagavad Gita Pariksha, Study Retreats at our Pine Lake Campus in Florida, and our wide range of courses and programs. 

HUA looks forward to taking our engagement with HMEC to the next level with brand new courses and a program soon to be announced! Meanwhile, HUA will continue to support and partner with mandirs across the continents on a range of initiatives, in person classes, lectures, or unique locally driven initiatives to restore, steward, and serve the Hindu community.

[From HMEC] About the event

Rebranded last year, the Hindu Mandir Empowerment Council is the largest annual conference for all the mandir stakeholders, including past and present executives, community leaders, volunteers, teachers of balvihar, and those engaged in various seva activities through temples. It brings together scholars from Mandirs, Gurudwaras, Ashrams, Derasars, and Hindu organizations in North America and the Caribbean to network, collaborate, and share best practices.

2024 Conference Theme: Hindu Diaspora: Deepening Their Sanatan Dharma Roots

Sanatan Dharma’s influence transcends spiritual traditions, intricately weaving itself into the social and cultural fabric of native civilization. The timeless wisdom of the Vedas and other shastras, including the Itihasa, Ramayan, and Mahabharat, continues to inspire and guide billions, upholding the principles of dharma encompassing justice and morality.

Hindus worldwide enrich the tapestry of the global spiritual, social, and cultural milieu through their lives and by respecting and honoring ancient traditions in their adopted lands. To fully understand the essence of Dharma and Hindu Thought, one must explore its core, its roots, stems, leaves, and flowers in depth. Practice it, realize it, and stay connected to Bharat.

Agenda includes:

• Webinars on temple safety and security
• Educational webinars in partnership with the Hindu University of America
• Building positive narratives on Hindu symbols like Swastika
• Helping temples when faced with Hinduphobic attacks

Some of the recent HMEC activities

• Publication of books on Hindu rituals and practices
• Alerts and webinars on temple safety and security
• Educational webinars in partnership with the Hindu University of America
• Helping temples when faced with Hinduphobic attacks
• Building positive narratives on Hindu symbols like Swastika

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Ayurveda Day 2024 – Bay Area

– A Gathering of Knowledge, Wellness, and Tradition

On October 29, 2024, the Bay Area hosted a vibrant celebration of Ayurveda Day. Organized by the California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM), the event gathered Ayurveda practitioners, students, and enthusiasts to honor the ancient science of life and its modern applications in health and wellness. The theme, Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health, highlighted the potential of Ayurveda as a holistic approach to global healthcare. The evening began with the Dhanwantari Homa, performed with deep reverence. This sacred Vedic ritual, dedicated to Lord Dhanwantari, the divine physician and father of Ayurveda, was conducted to invoke blessings for health, healing, and well-being for everyone present. Hindu University of America (HUA) and the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) played significant roles in supporting the event, promoting Ayurveda’s integration into contemporary health practices and raising awareness about its preventive benefits. Distinguished guests included the Consul General of India in San Francisco, Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, and Deputy Consul General Mr. Rakesh Adlakha, both of whom emphasized Ayurveda’s global significance and its ability to address current health challenges.

Key Discussions and Speakers

Theme: Ayurveda in Daily Life

1. Dr. Rammohan Rao on the Importance of Food and Mindful Eating

Dr. Rammohan Rao from the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) and Hindu University of America (HUA) delivered an insightful talk on Ayurveda’s approach to diet and lifestyle. Dr. Rao underscored the significance of understanding the quality and source of food (Ahara). “Consider where your food is grown and how it is processed,” he advised, pointing out that natural, fresh food aligns better with our bodies than highly processed or fried foods. He encouraged attendees to observe their eating habits: “Are you eating too quickly, or are you chewing thoroughly? Chewing creates memory circuits within our body, allowing us to fully experience our food’s nourishment.”

He further highlighted that eating habits extend beyond the meal itself. Timing is key in Ayurveda, with the largest meal ideally eaten during midday when digestive fire is strongest. Dr. Rao also advised against eating mindlessly in cars or while walking, which can disrupt digestion and contribute to stress. Such mindful eating practices allow people to connect more deeply with food, aiding in both physical and mental health.

2. Dr. Rucha Kelkar – Traditional Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Dr. Rucha Kelkar shared practical Ayurvedic remedies and their everyday applications, focusing on natural ingredients that support health. She emphasized Turmeric for its well-known wound-healing properties and Trikatu (a blend of black pepper, ginger, and long pepper) as a potent aid for digestion. Additionally, Dr. Kelkar recommended Tulsi (holy basil) and turmeric for daily immunity support, as both have significant anti-inflammatory properties. She also spoke on Sandalwood (Chandana) as a cooling herb that soothes the mind and heart; applying it to the forehead, she noted, promotes calmness and is especially beneficial during stressful times. This focus on traditional herbs demonstrated how Ayurvedic remedies can be easily incorporated into modern lives, showcasing Ayurveda’s flexibility and timeless relevance.

3. Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath – Aligning with Nature’s Rhythms through Dinacharya and Ritucharya

Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath from Kerala Ayurveda discussed the Ayurveda concept of Vihaar, or lifestyle, emphasizing that “all healing ultimately happens within our own bodies.” He explained Ayurveda’s approach to aligning with nature’s rhythms through Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal routine). Dinacharya promotes activities such as waking up early, engaging in gentle exercise, and eating meals at regular intervals. “The timing of your biggest meal, the intervals between meals, and even the practice of fasting can influence your well-being,” Dr. Jayarajan explained.

He discussed sleep as an essential aspect of this alignment, advising against late hours that disrupt the body’s natural rhythms. Dr. Jayarajan also recommended prioritizing downtime, such as spending relaxed moments with family, which fosters mental well-being and allows the body to rejuvenate. “Not all time needs to be productive,” he noted, reminding attendees to balance effort with rest—a core Ayurvedic principle. This emphasis on cyclical and balanced living provides a framework that supports not only physical health but also emotional and mental well-being, showcasing Ayurveda as a holistic science of life.

Key Takeaways for Health & Wellness

Perspective on Ayurveda Innovation for Global Health

There are several concepts, principles or innovations in Ayurveda that are Nobel Prize-worthy, concepts that resonate with modern scientific research that is on-going:

1. Dinacharya (Daily Routine) and Circadian Rhythm: The concept of Dinacharya in Ayurveda emphasizes a structured daily routine, including set times for waking, eating, exercise, work, and sleep. This aligns with modern circadian science, which emphasizes that the body’s internal clock is synchronized with the earth’s light-dark cycles, affecting metabolism, mental health, and cellular repair. The 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine highlighted the importance of circadian rhythms, reflecting what Ayurveda advocated thousands of years ago as essential for health.

2. Ayurvedic Clock and Seasonal Cycles (Ritucharya): Ayurveda also aligns health with seasonal cycles through Ritucharya, which advises adjusting diet and lifestyle according to the seasons. This anticipates modern insights into seasonal variations in immune function, metabolism, and mental health, showing Ayurveda’s comprehensive approach to environmental adaptation.

3. Aama (Toxins) and Gut Health: Ayurveda’s concept of Aama describes toxins resulting from poor digestion, which can accumulate in tissues and cause disease. This ancient view aligns with recent research on gut health, showing how inflammation, poor digestion, and imbalances in the gut microbiome contribute to chronic diseases. Ayurvedic practices for detoxification, such as fasting and herbal therapies, emphasize a balanced digestive fire (Agni), aligning with what we now know about the gut-brain connection and immune health.

4. Gut Microbiome: Ayurveda’s emphasis on balanced digestion and gut health is way ahead of its time, paralleling modern studies on the microbiome’s influence on conditions like obesity, immunity, and mental health. Ayurveda promotes probiotics, herbs (ex: Triphala, fermented foods), which are now known to support beneficial gut bacteria and health.

5. Prakriti (Individual Constitution) and Personalized Medicine: Ayurveda’s Prakriti principle—personalized health based on unique body constitutions (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)—is analogous to today’s personalized medicine, which considers individual genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Ayurveda’s tailored dietary, lifestyle, and treatment recommendations align with the personalized healthcare movement, which seeks to match treatment to genetic and phenotypic variations.

6. Rasayana (Rejuvenation) and Anti-Aging: Rasayana therapies, Ayurveda’s rejuvenation practices using herbs like Ashwagandha and Amalaki, aim to enhance vitality, mental clarity, and immunity. This is closely related to the field of anti-aging and longevity research, which investigates antioxidants, adaptogens, and cellular repair. Ayurveda’s proactive approach to aging anticipates much of today’s research on disease prevention and health optimization.

7. Mental Health and Holistic Preventive Care: Ayurveda considers emotional well-being essential to physical health, advocating lifestyle practices like meditation, Yoga, and a balanced diet for mental clarity and resilience. This aligns with modern integrative health, which sees mental health and lifestyle modifications as central to disease prevention.

These Ayurvedic insights show a sophisticated understanding of the body’s balance with nature, preventive health, and personalized care. I anticipate that many of the insights will be validated by modern science over time.

A Broader Vision for Global Health: Insights from CAAM

The California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM) organized this event to raise awareness of Ayurveda’s potential in preventive and promotive healthcare. The association has been working actively to integrate Ayurveda into the mainstream healthcare system by promoting educational events and fostering collaborations with medical professionals. CAAM’s representatives shared that Ayurveda’s philosophy aligns with sustainable, preventative healthcare model that could greatly benefit global healthcare systems overwhelmed by chronic diseases. The Consul General of India in San Francisco reiterated Ayurveda’s value as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern health needs. He spoke about the Indian Government’s efforts to support Ayurveda globally through educational partnerships and initiatives aimed at making Ayurveda more accessible and integrated with modern medical practices.

Conclusion: A Day of Connection, Learning, and Tradition

Ayurveda Day 2024 was a celebration of ancient wisdom and modern health insights, offering a space for learning and connection among Ayurveda enthusiasts and practitioners. The event showcased how Ayurveda’s principles—mindful eating, aligning with natural rhythms, and incorporating traditional remedies—are timeless practices that can be adapted for modern life. Through their commitment to this event, the Hindu University of America, California College of Ayurveda, and CAAM demonstrated the growing interest and respect for Ayurveda within California’s health and wellness community. By integrating Ayurveda into broader health practices, these organizations are paving the way for a healthier and more balanced approach to living, where ancient knowledge continues to inform and inspire today’s wellness trends. The evening concluded with a sense of collective enthusiasm and commitment to Ayurveda’s growth in the U.S., symbolizing Ayurveda’s enduring role in promoting holistic health. As more people incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their lives, Ayurveda Day serves as an annual reminder of the importance of balance, nature, and self-care in the pursuit of wellness.

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Speaking on the occasion, in his keynote address, Dr. Marc Halpern said: ‘Thank you so much
for welcoming me into your community. The California College of Ayurveda was founded in
1995 in Nevada City, California. We have a beautiful campus up there in the foothills of the
Sierras. To bring together our journey of CCA of almost thirty years with the journey of HUA is
truly beyond words for me. We have been promoting the knowledge and principles of
Ayurveda, Yoga, and Hindu Dharma all this time. Coming together with the traditional Hindu
community is a dream beyond anything I could have imagined. This union is itself a yoga for the
benefit of humanity.’

Dr. Halpern then offered a prayer to Lord Dhanwantri and invoked his blessings on the
upcoming occasion of International Ayurveda Day. Dr. Halpern spoke about his seven-year
healing process, which led him through his personal, professional, and spiritual journey to
Ayurveda. He wondered what it would look like to bring the best of the West and the best of
the East together. He said, Vedic knowledge is the path of understanding how to create
harmony in our lives,’ adding that ‘Ayurveda holds the key to healing our communities and the
world as it goes deeper into the psyche and consciousness.’ Dr. Halpern received a standing
ovation for his remarks.

In his talk, Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of the Hindu University of America, said, ‘Marc is
now part of the Hindu University of America. A fundamental commitment of this merger
between HUA and CCA is the recognition of the growing Western community of spiritual but
not religious (SBNR) people in the USA, who have been nurtured in the wake of the many
teachers from India who brought Hindu thought to the US. Starting from Swami Vivekananda in
1893, Paramahamsa Yogananda in the early twentieth century, followed by Maharishi Mahesh
Yogi, Swami Vishnudevananda, Swami Chidananda, Osho, Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada,
Swami Chinmayananda, Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Mata Amritanandamayi, Sri Sri
Ravishankar, Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev, and many more have seeded ideas from Bharat in the West, resulting in this ever-growing community that is now open to Yoga, Ayurveda,
meditation, mindfulness, and spirituality in general.’

Speaking on the potential of this merger, Mr. Viswanathan spoke about the possibilities and
challenges that lay ahead, highlighting the opportunity for ‘filling the evidentiary gap in
Ayurveda that remained a stumbling block when it came to mainstreaming Ayurveda in the
West.’ He said that the ‘development of clinical studies, the publication of papers, accreditation
standards, procedures for licensure at the state levels, and securing the potential for
reimbursements from insurance companies all lay ahead in the future, as milestones yet to be
accomplished.’ He also called out the possibility of ‘defining the field of integrative medicine
from an Ayurvedic foundation, as opposed to an allopathic as yet another exciting possibility
that lay in front of us.’ Shri Kalyan Viswanathan added that ‘creating a university such as HUA is
the work of many generations. We are merely marking a significant milestone now. Many more
crucial developments in the form of other schools, centers, departments, and institutes will
emerge in the next few decades.’ He then called on the Hindu community to embrace HUA and
contribute generously towards its growth.

The highlight of the gala event was the honor bestowed on Shri B. U. Patel by Dr. Jashvant
Patel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Hindu University of America, for his significant
contribution towards the growth and mission of HUA at a formative time in its journey of
rejuvenation. Dr. Jashvant Patel recalled that ‘when I took over as the Chair of the finance
committee of HUA, Shri B. U. Patel and his family were the first stop I made to ask for funds,
and the HUA family is deeply grateful to Shri B. U. Patel and Pushpaben for their invaluable
contribution to HUA. We cannot acknowledge them enough for their support.’ On behalf of the
university, Mr. and Mrs. B U Patel were warmly felicitated with the ‘Dharma Rakshaka’ award
inscribed on a plaque. Shri Naresh Solanki, the Mayor of Cerritos, presented a proclamation
from the city honoring the Hindu University of America for its contribution, Shri B. U. Patel for
his philanthropic gifts that have made a significant impact on society, and Dr. Marc Halpern,
who has served the Ayurveda community in the West for nearly three decades. This was
followed by a beautiful four-minute video presentation of Shri B. U. Patel and Pushpaben’s life
and accomplishments. The short film covered their early days in India, their initial venture into
Africa, their emigration to the USA in 1976, and their extraordinary business success in the
West. However, the film’s highlight was the selfless philanthropic work they have focused on
for the last quarter century, which has sown so many seeds that will impact millions of people
for generations to come, both in India and the West.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jashvant Patel added, As allopathic doctors, we know that we
can heal people fast, but Ayurveda excels in providing long-term health. Medical communities
globally recognize the value of integrative medicine today, especially that of Ayurveda.
Recently, I had the privilege of meeting the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on
September 22, and he received the news about the merger of our two institutions with great
enthusiasm. He gave us the responsibility to authenticate Ayurveda using modern methods of
science and promised the support of the Government of India for our efforts.’

The décor was Diwali-themed. Attendees had the opportunity to celebrate Hindu culture,
support HUA’s mission of preserving and promoting Hindu traditions, and network with like-
minded individuals. The event featured various cultural activities, including a live Bhakti music
performance by the renowned duo Ashwin (AKS) & Lakshmi, an exhibition of Hindu-themed
paintings and art provided by Shri Srinivas Rao Mangu, and devotional music on the keyboard
during lunch by Aniketh Arun, a young and upcoming musician.

About Hindu University of America (HUA):

Hindu University of America (HUA) is an upcoming university offering an extensive curriculum in
the knowledge systems rooted in Hindu thought, including its philosophy, culture, Sanskrit,
yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and more. HUA equips students with deep insights into Hindu
culture and traditions and their contemporary relevance in the modern world.
For more information about Hindu University of America, please visit the university website at
www.hua.edu or contact us at info@hua.edu.

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Waves 2024 – A Grand Confluence of Academic Scholarship and Vedic Wisdom

The 16th World Association for Vedic Studies (WAVES) Conference, hosted by Hindu University of America (HUA) in partnership with the Wider Association for Vedic Studies (WAVES India), convened over 250 scholars, participants, and attendees from around the world. From September 13th to 15th, 2024, the HUA campus in Groveland, Florida, became the focal point for elevating the academic discourse around Vedic Studies through panels, presentations, and plenaries, with this year’s theme being the Prevention, Management, and Resolution of Conflicts in Vedic Traditions.

A Platform for Global Scholarship

The world’s premier academic conference on Vedic Studies brought together a diverse range of voices, from seasoned scholars to emerging student researchers, reinforcing the breadth and depth of interest in Vedic thought. As WAVES International President Shri Sashi Kejriwal noted, “The diverse range of scholars who presented, attended, and participated in the WAVES 2024 Conference was impressive. What was unique about this conference was the great number of scholarly youth presentations. It was heartening to observe high school and college students not only in the audience but also at the podium articulating their own research.” This year’s conference was the first in-person WAVES gathering since the global pandemic, marking a significant milestone in the community’s return to face-to-face academic exchan

Confronting Contemporary Challenges with Vedic Wisdom

The world’s premier academic conference on Vedic Studies brought together a diverse range of voices, from seasoned scholars to emerging student researchers, reinforcing the breadth and depth of interest in Vedic thought. As WAVES International President Shri Sashi Kejriwal noted, “The diverse range of scholars who presented, attended, and participated in the WAVES 2024 Conference was impressive. What was unique about this conference was the great number of scholarly youth presentations. It was heartening to observe high school and college students not only in the audience but also at the podium articulating their own research.” This year’s conference was the first in-person WAVES gathering since the global pandemic, marking a significant milestone in the community’s return to face-to-face academic exchange.

Confronting Contemporary Challenges with Vedic Wisdom

The conference’s focus on conflict prevention and resolution drew attention to the enduring relevance of Vedic wisdom in today’s world. Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of HUA, shared his thoughts: “Hindu University of America is very proud to host the 16th biennial WAVES conference at its campus in Florida. WAVES has consistently provided a platform for scholars to express their perspectives through research papers and presentations. Vedic knowledge, even though ancient, is also very relevant for our contemporary age. This year’s conference theme centered around the challenges of conflict prevention, crisis management, and resolution. With many conflicts raging around the world, the scholars who attended the conference explored the relevance and value of Vedic wisdom in approaching the varied conflicts that we face today around the planet.”

The theme was explored through more than 100 research papers covering a wide range of disciplines, such as Philosophy, Anthropology, Medicine, Conflict Management, and Psychology. Focused panel discussions delved into subjects like Arthashastra, Ayurveda, and the distortions of Hindu ethos in educational systems. The sessions highlighted how the wisdom embedded in the Vedas could be instrumental in addressing today’s pressing issues, from global conflict to healthcare and education reform.

A Gathering of Eminent Minds

WAVES 2024 featured plenary speeches from several distinguished speakers, including Dr. Tony Nader (Virtually), Dr. Subash Kak, Dr. Vishwa Adluri, Dr. Debidatta Mahapatra, Dr. Joydeep Bagchee, Dr. Raj Vedam, Dr. Bal Ram Singh, Dr. Anil Maheshwari, to name a few; whose thought-provoking insights enriched the discussions and offered new perspectives on the application of Vedic knowledge to current challenges. Their contributions helped frame the ongoing conversation about how ancient wisdom can guide solutions to modern-day problems.

Bridging Generations of Scholars

One of the unique aspects of WAVES 2024 was the presence and active participation of the next generation of scholars. The conference provided a space for high school and college students to engage deeply with Vedic studies, both as learners and as contributors. This engagement not only showcased the growing interest among youth in their cultural heritage but also emphasized the importance of nurturing these young voices in academic forums. WAVES’ commitment to bringing together scholars across generations continues to build a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary inquiry.

A Blend of Academic Rigor and Cultural Immersion

Beyond academic discussions, WAVES 2024 also emphasized cultural and community engagement. Evening gatherings and jamming sessions allowed attendees to unwind and celebrate the vibrancy of Indian musical traditions, adding a dynamic cultural aspect to the conference.

The atmosphere of collaboration, community, and cultural celebration was palpable throughout the event, making WAVES 2024 a unique blend of scholarly rigor and immersive cultural experiences. HUA remains committed to hosting and facilitating the academic study of Vedic knowledge, and this conference further solidified its role as a hub for advancing Vedic studies.

Conclusion

WAVES 2024 successfully cleared space for escaping colonial frameworks and building an accurate Vedic worldview that speaks to today’s needs. This conference wasn’t just a series of scholarly sessions—it was a living, breathing testament to the relevance of Vedic knowledge in today’s world. With the successful conclusion of this event, all eyes are on WAVES 2025, where the conversations, research, and community spirit will surely continue to thrive.

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The event began with bhajans and Vedic chanting and an address by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Padma Bhushan Professor Ved Nanda. He welcomed and commended the graduating students as well as the chief guest of the event, Shri Anupam Kher. Dr. Nanda said that America was very receptive to Hindu ideas and thought, and that he was confident that Hindu University is on its way to fulfilling the expectations of not only the immigrant Hindu community, but also of many other Americans. The students, who received their degrees to appreciative applause, spoke briefly but movingly about the gift of knowledge that they had received from their teachers and guides. The graduating class of MA Sanskrit students deeply appreciated the precious gift that they now possessed, i.e., a direct access to the Shastras that contained the Hindu knowledge systems.

The graduating students enumerated in the table above, Zoomed in along with over 100 family members, HUA supporters, and even Padma Bhushan and Chair of the HUA Board of Trustees Ved Nanda.

Swami Sarvapriyananda, the resident Swami and head of the Vedanta Society of New York City, was also a featured speaker at the event.  He spoke about the need for the ‘Hindu community to build institutions that can transmit Santana Dharma systematically to the next generation of Hindu Americans.’ He added that ‘Hindus in North America have been great temple builders… but the younger generation is interested in the meaning and philosophy behind the rituals… it is good that Hindus have made large donations to Harvard and Columbia, but when you make a contribution to Hindu University of America, it is a matter of great merit, (punya), and you will be contributing to the protection and transmission of this Dharma – without making such investments, we run the risk of losing an entire generation to meaninglessness and rootlessness’.

The President of Hindu University of America, Shri Kalyan Viswanathan acknowledged the graduating students of the university. He read out the Mission and Vision of the University, laying out the need for protecting this small emerging university. He recalled how near his ancestral hometown, there is this great temple for Shiva, called the Brighadeeshwara Temple, in Tanjore, Tamil Nādu. He said, ‘This temple has stood for more than 1000 years and will probably stand for many 1000’s more’ and wondered if ‘we too could imagine building a university that could live for more than 1000 years?’

Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of HUA

Dr. Jashvant Patel, Member of the Board of Trustees of HUA, and the Chair of the Finance committee of HUA, conferred the honorary Doctor of Philosophy to Shri Anupam Kher, and recognized his extraordinary contributions to the world of art, films, and culture, and in particular to world cinema. Dr. Patel spoke of Shri Anupam Kher’s courageous and righteous stand for Hindu philosophy and thought, adding that  ‘the world may not know this – but Anupam Kher began his life in great adversity when he and his family had to leave Kashmir valley under difficult circumstances and start life afresh in a new town. And his journey from Shimla to Chandigarh, to Mumbai, and then to USA, is a true inspiration for millions of people worldwide.’ 

Dr. Padma Bhushan Anupam Kher who attended the event in person in New York City said ‘I am honored and humbled to be awarded this honorary Doctoral degree from Hindu University of America and I accept it with pride.’ He added that ‘I am a proud Hindu, because in thousands of years, Hindus have never invaded any other country – India has never colonized any other country through military dominance – and even though many hundreds of thousands of my fellow Kashmiris were forced to live in refugee camps, it is due to the Hindu philosophy of non-violence that no one picked up a gun or any weapon to settle any scores through violence. We believe in resurrecting our lives by resurrecting our minds.’

Dr. Jashvant Patel Chair of Finance Committee and Dr. Anupam Kher

Established in 1993, Hindu University of America is a School of Theology, offering a Master’s and Doctoral Program in Hindu Studies, and a Master of Arts in Sanskrit. In addition, it offers a variety of Certification and continuing education courses. In the Fall 2021 quarter beginning in the first week of October 2021, the university has announced more than 30 courses. After enrolling more than 500 students in each of the past 3 quarters, HUA anticipates sustained growth over the next year.

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(Morrisville, NC) – On August 24th, Fifty-One (51) students from North Carolina, mostly from the Triangle Area participated in this year’s Bhagavad Gītā Pariksha (BGP) competition. Over 200 members of the community attended to cheer the students and a $10,000 prize pool was awarded to the winners who showed exemplary knowledge and understanding of the Bhagavad Gītā.

In the Elementary Section, Srikeerthi Tirumalapeddinti (age 7) and Renusri Palemkota (age 9) tied for First Place with Riaan Patel (age 9) Winning Third Place. In the Junior Section, Jayanth Avula (age 13) was the First Place winner, with his twin brother Jathin Avula (age 13) the Second Place finisher, and Akshaj Vemuri (age 12) the Third Place winner. In the Senior Section, Maithili Kulkarni (age 20) was the First Place finisher with Amishi Gupta (age 14) in Second Place and Ayush Tripathi (age 14) in Third Place. The prizes, including participatory certificates and medals awarded by Dr. Raj Polavaram and Dr. Kishor Trivedi in a closing celebratory session.

Kalyan Viswanathan, President of Hindu University, said, “We hope this pilot program catches on and more Hindu Temples in North America come forward to create this competition in their communities in partnership with HUA. We aspire to enable young Hindus to grow up with the Bhagavad Gītā as a companion resource for the rest of their lives.”

Dr. Kalika Uttarkar, Faculty at HUA who served as a judge and test writer for the BGP shares that “We are trying to inculcate into the students that knowledge without application is redundant, so philosophy of Gītā needs behavioral application. This competition helps parents open the doors of culture to their children.” She went further into the depth and purpose of the BGP, “Language is a window, isn’t it? Not being able to transfer their wisdom through English, it is important for Indian born parents to find ways to share cultural history and heritage.”

The competition included three categories: Elementary (K-4th grade), Junior (5th-8th grade) and Senior (9th grade and above). In the Elementary competition, participants chanted five shlokas from a selected set of 25 shlokas and explained their meaning. The Junior and Senior competitors took a written exam in the morning with the five top scorers in each category interviewed on their understanding of the concepts of the Bhagavad Gītā during the afternoon finals. In between the morning and afternoon sessions, families had lunch, students participated in the unique game of Gītā Shloka Antakshari, and also chanted Adhyayas 16 and 17.

The Second Annual Gītā Pariksha was hosted by the Hindu Society of North Carolina (HSNC) in a joint effort with Sri Venkateswara Temple of NC, Radio Nyra, and Bharat FM. Co-Sponsors organized volunteers, raised funds, and created a unique competition that elevated and shared discourse around the Bhagavad Gītā.

Shri Manoj Pandya, President of HSNC added, “There are lots of tests for chanting but we wanted to emphasize the meaning as well.” Dr. Raj Polavaram, Chair of Friends of Hindu University of America, NC Chapter, said “People these days glamorize temporary, transient things, but what if we make the good things like Gītā more fun? So that’s why we came up with this idea of the Gītā Pariksha. We started this initiative last year, are very extremely pleased with the response this year, and look forward to creating regional competitions and making it a national competition next year!”

Hindu University of America provides education in knowledge systems based in Hindu thought involving critical inquiry, ethics, and self-reflection. HUA is committed to fostering the culture and traditions of Hindu Dharma in an atmosphere of academic excellence, through community education courses, and local events designed to energize the community. Dr. Uttarkar will be teaching a course on Hindu Parenting starting in October. If you think your children and community would enjoy such a Gītā Pariksha competition in your city, reach out to Director of Outreach, Ankur Patel.

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A Vedic Counselor’s Perspective on Life

“In the vision of Vedanta, a person, by virtue of his own essential nature, is totally, absolutely, pure and free. Compassion, love, giving, and sharing are all dynamic forms of this absolute happiness (aananda). You are limitless, fullness, complete, lacking nothing.”- Swami Dayananda Saraswati

My Nānijī

Nānijī would lovingly start every conversation with “Sai beta, please share with me a few words of spiritual wisdom…” I would respond, “Nānijī, keep your mind on ‘Om’”. In her last few months, Nānijī could not even digest daal water. She would burp loudly during our conversations, mostly listening to my voice telling her to keep her mind on her Higher Self – her “I am.” We never discussed the topic of death directly, but Nānijī knew that it was near and all she wanted to do was rid herself of the immense suffering her body was going through. I reminded her often that she was neither the body nor the mind; that she was beyond these two that caused suffering; that she was pure love, infinite, ever-present awareness – the “I am” that vibrates in the “Om.” In this state of mind, her last moments were not consumed with questions or attachments to the material world she was to leave behind, but rested on her deeper, Higher Self.

Nānijī and I also practiced forgiveness meditation where over the period of several weeks we learned to forgive those who have hurt us. I could feel that as Nānijī neared the end, she was more free, lighter – she divested herself of all of life’s experiences and settled in her Higher Self; her mind was consumed in looking up at the Divine rather than holding down on to the material plane. One day, while sending her healing energy in my meditation, unbeknownst to me, Nānijī passed away in her sleep. She finally merged with the ever-present, indivisible, infinite awareness

Vedic Counseling

I share this story because I was engaged in a form of counseling that I didn’t know existed: Vedic counseling. After much reflection on how I engaged with Nānijī, I decided to explore Dr. David Frawley’s (Pandit Vamadeva Shastri) course on Vedic counseling. I became a Certified Vedic Counselor and began my formal journey into Vedic counseling with the hope that I am able to become a compassionate guide to others in their time of need, particularly those nearing death. In time, I developed my own Vedic vision on life drawing from my practices in yoga and study of Vedanta as well as learning from numerous teachers.

Dr. David Frawley explains that Vedic counseling can be understood as dhārmic guidance on right living, right action, and right awareness. It draws upon Vedic knowledge rooted in Vedic Sciences such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Vāstu, Jyotiṣa, among others, and provides life guidance to those in need so that they may access the unlimited wisdom, energy, and vitality inherent within themselves while connecting to the universal intelligence that helps them move beyond their human constraints (Frawley, Kshirsagar, the Art and Science of Vedic Counseling). Vedic counseling then is counseling of inner observation into our internal reality and a Vedic counselor sets in motion a deeper process of observation and investigation in the individual with the goal of awakening an already-present deeper intelligence (Frawley, Kshirsagar, the Art and Science of Vedic Counseling).

As I reflect on my conversations with Nānijī, and others who I had spent their last moments with, I found that my guidance has organically always led to a focus on the changeless element of experience, the ever-present, indivisible, infinite awareness of “I am.”

“I am” – A Contemplation

Consider the following contemplation from spiritual teacher and philosopher, Rupert Spira:

“Look around the room you are sitting in and reading this article. Look at the objects, what’s on this table, the table, the walls, the chair, and so on. Now bring your attention away from the objects in the room and bring your attention to the space in the room. Have you ever contemplated this space? Have you ever thought of this space or brought your attention to it? Perhaps the only times you become aware of this space is when you move into an empty home or when you move out, but in between, you fill it up with various objects.

Now bringing your attention to the space in the room, ask: is this space limited to the four walls? Remove the four walls and what happens to that space? You realize that the space in this room pervades this room but is not limited to this room. Relatively speaking, it is infinite. When the building is taken down, the space will remain exactly as it is, as it has always been. (Spira, The Place of Refuge). Similarly, the self or awareness of yourself pervades the body but is not limited to the body. It is utterly intimate with itself, but it has no personal qualities or limitations. It is infinite. It is not located in a body or mind, but you notice in your direct experience that the awareness with which all experience is known, like the space, is not located in any particular experience. (Spira, The Place of Refuge). It has always been there. Everything, including the body and the mind, the experiences you have in your life, all appear in that awareness.”

Similar to the space with all the objects in it and similar to the way we identify with only those objects but not the space within which they are in, our lives are always qualified and colored with the “I am” with thoughts, feelings, sensations, or perceptions. Notice that all those objects of thoughts, feelings, sensations, or perceptions that follow “I am” all appear, exist for a time, and vanish, but “I am” remains. (Spira, The Place of Refuge). In fact, this awareness of “I am” has always been there.

Take a step back from your experience and step into this “I am.” Contemplate this “I am” and soon you discover that the body and the mind is what we are aware of; it is not what we are. (Spira, The Place of Refuge). In other words, the awareness of “I am” precedes all objects and content of experience. It has always been there. This awareness, this presence of awareness, is the most important thing we can understand about ourselves. This awareness is so caught up and mixed with experience that we have forgotten this “I am.”

Be with this “I am.” I am. When a thought arises, ask: are you aware? And you find that the “I am” is aware of that thought but a thought is not aware of itself. When a feeling arises, ask: are you aware? And you find that “I am” aware of that feeling but a feeling is not aware of itself. In this way, you find that no object of experience is aware. And then you ask what is it that is aware of experience? And you find yourself back in “I am” – the knowing and being that is “I am.” Keep going back to this “I am.” (Spira, The Place of Refuge). Stay there. (See also Kavitha Chinnaiyan, Svatantra Institute, Bliss Meditation)

Role of a Vedic Counselor

Our entry into the world is pervaded by duality. From the moment we are born, we are conditioned with the subject-object relationship. As a result, we already begin our lives from a place where we feel limited, incomplete, so we start seeking and resisting. We desperately try to feel whole and complete in our daily activities and relationships. This feeling of separation ultimately leads us away from the one reality — that single, indivisible, reality behind all the objects and people that derive their apparently independent existence. (Spira, An Introduction to Non-Duality). This sense of separation ultimately brings disharmony between ourselves and the world. A Vedic counselor is one who understands that sole reality and guides an individual to an understanding that they lack nothing, that they are already complete.

The apparent separate self or ego, an illusory self (real but not what it appears to be/an arising in awareness) mixed with objects of experience, is sometimes in need of practices or instruction. (Spira, The Place of Refuge; also see Greg Goode, Standing as Awareness). The Vedic Sciences are practices and techniques that facilitate the individual to arrive at the recognition of “I am.” Ayurveda is the Vedic Science for well-being of body and mind; Jyotisha is the science of time and energetic effects of cosmic bodies on the mind; Vastu is the science of space and directional influences,; and other sciences lead us to the vision of Vedanta, which is the philosophy of awareness. (Frawley, Kshirsagar, the Art and Science of Vedic Counseling).

These Vedic Sciences are the preparation ground to allow one to arrive at the “I am.” (Spira, the Way of Surrender). These Sciences provide processes and solutions to the suffering, needs, questions, and fears of this separate self. (Spira, the Way of Surrender; also see, Chinnaiyan, Shakti Rising). They cater to the separate self’s unique needs before finally resting in the awareness “I am.” A Vedic counselor identifies a particular Science or a mixture of these Sciences and sets in motion the processes to help that separate self dissolve into awareness. Ultimately, the Vedic counselor facilitates an individual to take a step towards themselves, to go home to themselves, to be simply with the knowledge of themselves, to surrender to themselves and open up the possibility of the dissolution of their apparent separate self or ego, that illusory limitations that the separate self acquires from thinking, feeling, sensing, perceiving and so on, into the infinite, ever-present awareness that they already are.

Every investigation or surrender to dissolve this separation that causes so much suffering results in coming back to ourselves where we simply live and be aware of our being, of the “I am.” This is the death of the separate self before the death of the physical self.

The End of the Illusory Separate Self

Visualize yourself on your deathbed. You’ve been told you have three days to live. What would you be contemplating about? What would you want to be thinking about? How would your mind approach the moment? Will it grasp for all that content of experience it has gathered over this lifetime or will it divest all that experience and go straight to the unblemished, essential self? Consider the contemplation on “I am” we just discussed. Would it change how you approach the last few days, hours, minutes, seconds in your mortal coil?

As I reflect on Nānijī’s physical end, and the physical loss of so many other friends and family over the last few years, I find myself constantly reflecting on death. Particularly, on the death of the separate self, and all its illusory limitations, before the death of the physical self. Consider the possibility of having the separate self die well before the physical.

The Sufis call this “dying before death” and Vedantans call it “liberation while living” (jivanmukta). What is meant by this understanding is that when the mind constantly dwells in the “I am” instead of the qualified, colored experience that contracts that “I am,” the mind finds itself in the open, in spaciousness, clarity, and peace; in other words, it is restored to its pristine, unconditioned state. As the body deteriorates in various ways, the mind remains illumined in the knowledge of “I am” – that true self, infinite, ever-present awareness. Many of us fear death, but when we have the capacity to clearly investigate our separate self with a healthy body and mind – especially when that body and mind are healthy now – we can immediately get in touch with ourselves deeply. That is, instead of constantly identifying with experience and desperately holding on to it – the experience of thoughts, feelings, perceptions that say “I am old,” “I am wrinkly,” “I am losing everything” – return back to the one constant, changeless element that has always been there no matter your age: the awareness of “I am.” Keep your attention there. See where this takes you. Does it liberate you from the fear of dying? Remain there.

We find that no matter what happens to this body, the death of identifying with experience, the illusory separate self, gives rise to the birth of peace that is already our being. In this way, when the moment comes when the body is finally done, all that shines in our minds is our knowledge of “I am” – the pure, peaceful, ever-present awareness that has always been there – that awareness that has preceded our birth and that awareness that continues after our death.

**My sincere thanks to the teachers that continue to shape me: Shri Guru, Bhairava Baba, Shri Atmananda Krishna Menon, Shri M, Rupert Spira, Sri Ramana Maharishi, Nisargadatta Maharaj, Greg Goode, Dr. Kavitha Chinnaiyan, Dr. David Frawley, and all those numerous beings who continue to teach and guide me.

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Ayurveda is a system of traditional, and holistic healthcare practice that originated in India. Dr. Marc Halpern founded the California College of Ayurveda in 1995 with the vision of bringing Ayurveda to the United States to transform the consciousness and well-being of society. Over the past 29 years, he has nurtured the college and witnessed the profession’s growth. “CCA began modestly by conducting a weekend program out of my remodeled garage and eventually became the most recognized college of Ayurveda outside of India. CCA’s graduates have been at the forefront of the profession’s development” added Dr. Halpern, remarking that “Our vision for this merger is to harmoniously blend the best of the East with the best of the West, ensuring a promising future for all. This is truly a remarkable development.” 

Dr. Jashvant Patel, Chairman of the Board of Hindu University of America, stated “As a medical doctor practicing western medicine and surgery, I have often tried to incorporate alternative and complementary modes of treatment. This merger will enable us to focus on the benefits of integrative health, bringing scientific rigor and discipline to the development of this field. This is a monumental milestone for HUA, and I am very excited to be a part of this phase of growth and expansion. Ayurveda and Allopathic medicine need not be antagonistic to each other. They can be complementary. I foresee HUA along with CCA making an important contribution to the field of healthcare and to humanity by expanding Ayurveda education and research.”

Kalyan Viswanathan, President of Hindu University of America, added, “The knowledge systems that originated in India, have always given primacy to the spiritual realm over the material realm. At HUA, it will be a priority for us to demonstrate the contemporary value of Ayurveda, consistent with the practices of modern science, even as we explore the possibilities of holistic healthcare. The HUA family has just grown considerably, and so have the opportunities in front of us. We wholeheartedly welcome the CCA community into the HUA family and to further advancing the field.”

Click here to visit the California College of Ayurveda’s website.

Click here to visit HUA’s Ayurveda and Integrative Health courses.

For questions or comments, please contact Ankur Patel at info@hua.edu or +1-818-470-4019.

For more information, please visit https://www.hua.edu or https://www.ayurvedacollege.com/.

About Hindu University of America (HUA)

Founded in 1989, authorized in 1993, and based near Orlando, Florida, Hindu University of America (HUA) offers outstanding education in the traditional knowledge systems based in Hindu thought, that originated in ancient India. HUA’s vision is centered on promoting dialogue across disciplines, cultures and civilizations while enabling self-discovery, conscious evolution, and harmony.

About California College of Ayurveda (CCA)

Established in 1995, and based in Nevada City, California, the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) is dedicated to transforming human consciousness by providing the highest quality education, health care, and research in the field of Ayurveda. It is the oldest, and most recognized state-approved college in the West offering education, healthcare, and research in the field of Ayurveda.

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