Bhagavad Gita -

Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer.

The context of the Gita is a dialogue set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, just before the start of a great war. Arjuna, faced with a moral and emotional dilemma about fighting in the war, is reluctant to engage in the battle, as it involves killing his relatives, teachers, and friends. Krishna uses this moment of doubt to impart spiritual wisdom to Arjuna.

Key Themes of the Bhagavad Gita:

Dharma (Duty): The Gita teaches the importance of following one’s duty (dharma) without attachment to the results. Arjuna is reminded that he must act according to his role as a warrior, without concern for the outcome.
Karma (Action): Krishna emphasizes the importance of performing one’s duties selflessly, without attachment to the fruits of actions. This is known as Karma Yoga, the yoga of selfless action.
Bhakti (Devotion): Krishna also speaks of Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion to God. He encourages Arjuna to surrender to the divine will and engage in worship and devotion.
Jnana (Knowledge): Krishna reveals the ultimate truth to Arjuna, describing the nature of the soul, the impermanence of the physical body, and the eternal existence of the soul. This path is called Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge.
Yoga (Union): The Gita outlines various paths of yoga—Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jnana Yoga—as ways to achieve spiritual liberation (moksha) and union with the Divine.
Self-Realization: The Gita stresses the idea of self-realization and the importance of understanding one’s true nature as the soul, which is eternal and beyond the physical body.

Structure:

The Bhagavad Gita is divided into 18 chapters, with each chapter focusing on different aspects of life, philosophy, and spirituality. Some key chapters include:

Chapter 2: Sankhya Yoga – The essence of knowledge and action, where Krishna starts teaching Arjuna.
Chapter 9: Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga – The most confidential knowledge, where Krishna explains his divine nature.
Chapter 11: Visvarupa Darsana Yoga – Krishna reveals his universal form to Arjuna.

The Bhagavad Gita has been a significant influence on Hindu philosophy and has been interpreted by numerous scholars, saints, and philosophers over the centuries. It is regarded as a spiritual and philosophical guide for leading a righteous and meaningful life.

What is Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita is a 700-verse sacred Hindu scripture that is part of the Mahabharata, one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India. The Gita is a philosophical and spiritual dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. It takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, just before the great war is about to begin.

Context:

In the story, Arjuna is confused and morally troubled about fighting in the war, as it involves killing his relatives, teachers, and friends. He faces a moral dilemma about duty, righteousness, and the consequences of war. In response, Krishna imparts profound spiritual wisdom, guiding Arjuna through his crisis and helping him understand his duties (dharma), the nature of life, and the path to spiritual liberation.

Key Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita:

Dharma (Duty and Righteousness): The Gita emphasizes the importance of adhering to one’s duty without attachment to the results. Krishna teaches Arjuna that fulfilling his role as a warrior is essential, as long as it is in accordance with righteousness (dharma).
Karma (Selfless Action): One of the central teachings is to perform actions selflessly, without attachment to their outcomes. This is called Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action. Krishna urges Arjuna to act in the world but without becoming attached to the consequences of his actions.
Bhakti (Devotion): Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion, is another key aspect. Krishna encourages Arjuna to dedicate his actions to God and surrender to the divine will, emphasizing that true spiritual liberation comes through devotion and love for the Divine.
Jnana (Knowledge): The Jnana Yoga, or the path of knowledge, involves understanding the eternal nature of the soul and realizing that the material world is temporary. Krishna explains the distinction between the physical body and the immortal soul.
Yoga (Union): The Gita teaches various forms of yoga, such as Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Jnana Yoga, all aimed at achieving moksha (liberation). The term “yoga” in the Gita means the union of the individual soul with the Supreme, the Divine.
Self-Realization: The Gita highlights the importance of understanding one’s true nature as the eternal soul (Atman) rather than the physical body, which is subject to change and decay.

Structure:

The Bhagavad Gita is divided into 18 chapters, each addressing different aspects of life, philosophy, and spiritual practice. Some notable chapters are:

Chapter 2: Sankhya Yoga – The essence of knowledge and action.
Chapter 9: Raja Vidya Raja Guhya Yoga – The most confidential knowledge.
Chapter 11: Visvarupa Darsana Yoga – Krishna reveals his universal form to Arjuna.

Influence:

The Bhagavad Gita is a foundational text in Hinduism and has had a significant impact on Indian philosophy, literature, and spirituality. It has been studied, commented on, and interpreted by various philosophers, saints, and thinkers, and continues to inspire millions around the world, providing guidance on how to live a balanced and meaningful life.

Who is required Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita is a universal text, offering wisdom and guidance that can benefit anyone, regardless of their religious or cultural background. However, it is especially relevant to the following groups of people:

1. Those Facing Moral Dilemmas or Life Challenges

Arjuna’s Dilemma in the Gita represents the struggles and uncertainties that individuals face when making difficult decisions. People going through personal crises, conflicts, or moral dilemmas (such as choosing between competing values or duties) can find guidance in the Gita’s teachings about duty (dharma), selfless action (karma), and finding the right path.

2. Spiritual Seekers and Devotees

Bhakti practitioners: Those on the path of devotion to God (Bhakti Yoga) will benefit from the teachings on surrender, love, and dedication to the Divine.
Those seeking self-realization: The Gita helps individuals understand the nature of the soul, the self, and the supreme reality. Those interested in realizing their true spiritual nature and achieving moksha (liberation) can learn from the Gita’s teachings on Jnana Yoga (knowledge) and meditation.

3. People Seeking to Live Righteously (Dharma)

The concept of dharma (righteous duty) is central to the Gita, and it applies to anyone trying to live ethically and fulfill their responsibilities in life, whether in their family, career, or community. The teachings encourage people to act with integrity, wisdom, and compassion.

4. Those Pursuing Personal Growth

The Gita is a guide to personal development, providing insights into how to overcome emotional struggles, gain mental clarity, and act with wisdom. Its teachings on self-discipline, mind control, and mental detachment can help anyone seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being.

5. Leaders and Decision-Makers

Krishna’s advice to Arjuna can be applied to leadership, decision-making, and ethical governance. Leaders, managers, and decision-makers in various fields can draw inspiration from the Gita’s emphasis on selfless service, guiding others, and making choices based on duty rather than personal gain.

6. Anyone Seeking Inner Peace and Balance

The Gita teaches that true peace comes from detachment, devotion, and aligning one’s actions with higher principles. It’s especially helpful for people who are striving for mental peace amidst the stress and struggles of daily life. The practices of meditation and mindfulness recommended in the Gita can help anyone find balance and tranquility.

7. Those Interested in Different Paths of Yoga

The Gita describes various forms of yoga (paths to spiritual union), such as:
- Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless action)
- Bhakti Yoga (the yoga of devotion)
- Jnana Yoga (the yoga of knowledge)
- Raja Yoga (the yoga of meditation)
People seeking spiritual growth through any of these paths will find valuable insights in the text.

When is required Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita is relevant at any point in life, especially during times of challenge, confusion, or spiritual seeking. It provides guidance on how to live a meaningful, ethical, and balanced life. Here are some key moments or situations when the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita may be particularly needed:

1. During Times of Personal Crisis or Conflict

When you’re facing difficult decisions, moral dilemmas, or inner turmoil, the Bhagavad Gita offers clarity and guidance on making the right choices. Just as Arjuna was conflicted about fighting in the war, people today may face moments where they struggle with important life decisions—whether it’s a career choice, personal conflict, or ethical issue.
Example: Arjuna was torn between his duty as a warrior and his personal attachment to family members. When you experience confusion or inner conflict, the Gita helps to find peace and understanding.

2. When Seeking Purpose or Meaning in Life

The Gita helps you understand the true purpose of life and the importance of dharma (righteous duty). If you feel lost, without direction, or uncertain about your goals in life, the Gita guides you to focus on fulfilling your responsibilities with dedication and wisdom.
Example: If you’re questioning why you’re doing something or searching for deeper fulfillment, the Gita will help you align with a higher purpose.

3. When Facing Challenges or Obstacles

The Gita is a guide to dealing with adversity and challenges. It teaches how to maintain composure, overcome obstacles, and keep going without being overwhelmed by stress, fear, or failure. Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duty regardless of the outcome, which can be applied to modern-day struggles.
Example: When dealing with failure, stress at work, or personal losses, the teachings help develop resilience and a calm mindset.

4. During Times of Emotional or Mental Distress

Mental health struggles, such as anxiety, depression, or emotional instability, can benefit from the Gita’s teachings on mind control and self-discipline. It emphasizes the importance of detaching from the results of actions and focusing on inner peace and balance.
Example: When overwhelmed by emotions, the Gita offers techniques like meditation and mental discipline to restore balance.

5. When Seeking Spiritual Growth or Enlightenment

The Gita is deeply spiritual and offers paths to self-realization, where you understand your true nature as the eternal soul (Atman), distinct from the body and mind. If you’re on a journey of spiritual discovery, the Gita is essential for gaining wisdom about the nature of existence, the universe, and the divine.
Example: During periods of spiritual seeking, when you’re looking to understand the ultimate reality or connect with a higher power.

6. When Facing a Leadership Role or Need for Guidance

Leaders, managers, or anyone in a position of influence can turn to the Gita for advice on making wise decisions, motivating others, and leading with integrity. Krishna’s guidance to Arjuna on leadership, responsibility, and duty is timeless and applicable in leadership situations.
Example: When you’re in a managerial or leadership role, facing tough decisions, or guiding others, the Gita teaches how to lead with wisdom, fairness, and selflessness.

7. During Difficult Relationships or Family Matters

The Gita teaches how to manage personal attachments and relationships. If you’re dealing with complex relationships, family struggles, or emotional attachment, it helps to understand how to balance personal feelings with duty (dharma).
Example: If you’re caught in a difficult relationship or family issue, the Gita teaches how to act with compassion and fairness, without being overly attached to the results.

8. When Seeking Peace and Inner Harmony

If you’re feeling restless, anxious, or disturbed, the Gita teaches methods of achieving mental peace through meditation, detachment, and mind control. It provides a blueprint for attaining a balanced and harmonious life, focusing on the soul’s eternal nature.
Example: When searching for calmness amidst the chaos of life, the Gita offers practices that help quiet the mind and align with your inner peace.

Conclusion:

The Bhagavad Gita is a timeless source of wisdom, applicable during all stages of life. It is needed whenever you are seeking:

Guidance during moral or ethical dilemmas
Clarity about life’s purpose
Spiritual growth or inner peace
Leadership advice or guidance on fulfilling one’s duties.

It provides practical teachings that help navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, equanimity, and clarity.

COURTESY : BeerBiceps

Where is required Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita is not confined to a specific place or context; its teachings are universally applicable and can be accessed and applied in various aspects of life, regardless of where you are. However, here are some key places or contexts where the Bhagavad Gita is especially relevant:

1. In the Heart and Mind of the Seeker

The Gita is most importantly required within oneself. It’s a guide to understanding your inner thoughts, emotions, and soul. Whether you are in a moment of personal crisis or spiritual seeking, the teachings of the Gita help you make sense of your inner world and achieve peace, clarity, and self-realization.
Example: When you’re struggling with confusion or emotional turmoil, turning inward to reflect upon the Gita’s teachings can provide guidance.

2. In Times of Crisis or Decision-Making

The Gita is often referred to during personal crises or situations requiring critical decision-making. Just as Arjuna sought Krishna’s guidance on the battlefield, individuals facing personal, career, or moral dilemmas may find comfort in turning to the wisdom of the Gita, no matter their location.
Example: Whether at home, in a workplace, or any other environment, when you face a tough decision, the Gita’s teachings can help you navigate through.

3. In Spiritual or Religious Contexts

The Gita is a sacred text of Hinduism and is deeply revered in religious and spiritual settings such as temples, ashrams, and study groups. Many people engage with it in temples, during spiritual gatherings, or in devotional practices.
Example: In temples dedicated to Lord Krishna or spiritual centers, individuals often study and chant the Gita to enhance their spiritual understanding.

4. In Educational and Learning Environments

The Bhagavad Gita is also studied in schools, colleges, and universities, especially in courses related to philosophy, religious studies, or Indian culture. It is taught not only in India but also in various institutions around the world as part of cultural or spiritual education.
Example: In philosophy classes or spiritual retreats, where it’s studied as part of a broader curriculum on life, ethics, and personal growth.

5. During Meditation or Contemplation

Yoga centers, meditation spaces, and retreats often include the Bhagavad Gita as part of their teachings. The Gita emphasizes meditation, self-discipline, and inner peace, making it relevant in places dedicated to personal reflection, stillness, and growth.
Example: When practicing meditation or engaging in yoga at home or in a retreat center, the teachings of the Gita provide a foundation for mental and spiritual clarity.

6. In Leadership and Professional Environments

The Gita’s teachings on duty, selfless action, and decision-making make it relevant in professional settings. Leaders, managers, and teams in any work environment can apply the principles of the Gita to inspire ethical action and focus on the greater good.
Example: In boardrooms, leadership training sessions, or work environments, where people make decisions or guide others, the Gita provides insights on how to lead with wisdom and integrity.

7. In Family and Social Life

The Gita’s teachings on family responsibilities, duty (dharma), and managing emotional attachment are often applied in family life and in interactions with society. The text helps individuals navigate relationships and social obligations while maintaining inner peace.
Example: At home, when faced with family responsibilities, ethical dilemmas, or the need to make difficult decisions that affect loved ones, the Gita’s wisdom can guide actions.

8. In the Battlefield of Life

The Gita was spoken on the literal battlefield of Kurukshetra, where Arjuna was filled with doubt and confusion. Similarly, the teachings are essential for anyone who perceives life as a struggle or who faces challenges that seem overwhelming, whether in personal, social, or professional realms.
Example: In difficult situations like health issues, financial stress, or emotional battles, the teachings offer tools for resilience and maintaining equanimity.

Conclusion:

The Bhagavad Gita is needed wherever life presents challenges or opportunities for personal growth. Its teachings are relevant anywhere—whether in a place of crisis, study, work, home, or spiritual practice. It offers universal principles that apply to all situations, from conflict to peace, spiritual seeking to professional development, and is beneficial wherever there is a need for guidance in life.

How is required Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita is required in life for various reasons, as it provides timeless wisdom, guidance, and practical tools for navigating life’s challenges, making ethical decisions, and achieving personal and spiritual growth. Here’s how the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are needed and how they can be applied in different contexts:

1. For Clarity in Confusion

The Gita helps in finding clarity when life seems uncertain or overwhelming. Just as Arjuna was initially confused about his duty on the battlefield, individuals today may face moments of uncertainty in their lives.
How it’s required: When faced with tough decisions or emotional turmoil, the Gita’s teachings help restore clarity by encouraging one to focus on duty (dharma) and not be swayed by external circumstances or emotions.
Example: When you’re unsure whether to take a big career move or dealing with internal conflict, the Gita’s teachings help you navigate these decisions.

2. For Guidance in Decision-Making

The Bhagavad Gita provides valuable advice on making decisions based on righteousness and duty. It teaches the importance of making decisions without attachment to outcomes, which is essential in both personal and professional life.
How it’s required: It teaches the principles of Karma Yoga, which emphasizes acting selflessly, without worrying about the results of actions. This is crucial when one must act, despite not knowing how things will turn out.
Example: If you’re at a crossroads in your career or relationships, the Gita teaches that focusing on what is right (dharma) will lead to the best outcome, irrespective of success or failure.

3. For Spiritual Growth and Self-Realization

The Gita is a guide for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and self-realization. It teaches about the eternal nature of the soul (Atman) and the importance of connecting with the divine.
How it’s required: Through Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), and Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action), the Gita offers ways to attain inner peace and connect with higher consciousness.
Example: If you’re seeking to deepen your spiritual practice or understand the purpose of your life, the Gita helps you find answers.

4. For Personal Discipline and Self-Control

One of the core teachings of the Gita is the importance of self-discipline and control over the mind and senses. It teaches techniques for developing a steady and focused mind, crucial for success in any field.
How it’s required: The Gita emphasizes control over desires and distractions. The practice of meditation and mindfulness, as discussed in the Gita, is important for managing emotions and maintaining peace of mind.
Example: If you struggle with focus or emotional control, the Gita provides the tools to calm the mind and stay disciplined in achieving your goals.

5. For Coping with Life’s Challenges

Life often presents challenges such as loss, failure, betrayal, and disappointment. The Gita’s teachings help individuals cope with these challenges by maintaining inner peace and understanding that life’s trials are temporary.
How it’s required: The Gita teaches the importance of equanimity—remaining balanced in success and failure, pain and pleasure. It helps individuals cultivate resilience and detachment from the fruits of their labor.
Example: When dealing with personal or professional setbacks, the Gita helps you respond with patience and resilience, focusing on your duty and spiritual well-being rather than just the immediate outcome.

6. For Ethical Living and Moral Guidance

The Gita provides profound insights into the concept of righteousness (dharma), showing how to live an ethical and moral life. It helps individuals navigate the complexities of moral dilemmas and act according to principles that align with their true nature.
How it’s required: In a world full of ethical challenges, the Gita shows the importance of upholding values like truth, honesty, and fairness, even when faced with difficult choices.
Example: In situations where you’re pressured to compromise on your values (whether in business, personal life, or social settings), the Gita encourages upholding your integrity and making decisions based on dharma.

7. For Leading with Wisdom and Compassion

The Gita’s teachings are essential for those in leadership roles, as it offers guidance on leading with wisdom, compassion, and selflessness. The idea of servant leadership is prominent in the Gita, where leaders are urged to prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain.
How it’s required: The Karma Yoga aspect of the Gita teaches how to perform your duties without ego or attachment to rewards, fostering leadership qualities that inspire trust and respect.
Example: If you’re managing a team, the Gita teaches that your actions should be focused on contributing to the greater good, not just achieving personal success.

8. For Inner Peace and Contentment

The Bhagavad Gita helps individuals attain peace of mind and contentment by teaching the importance of detachment from material possessions, worldly success, and failures. It emphasizes mental calmness through meditation and detachment from the fruits of one’s actions.
How it’s required: By teaching selfless action and the importance of focusing on the process (rather than the outcome), the Gita guides individuals to find peace in every situation.
Example: When struggling with the pursuit of material wealth or social validation, the Gita reminds you to focus on fulfilling your purpose and maintaining inner peace regardless of external circumstances.

9. For Balancing Material and Spiritual Life

The Bhagavad Gita advocates living a balanced life where one can perform their worldly duties while also striving for spiritual growth. It teaches that it is possible to succeed in both material pursuits and spiritual development without conflict.
How it’s required: The teachings encourage living in harmony with the world, without neglecting one’s responsibilities. Whether you are an entrepreneur, student, homemaker, or any other role, the Gita shows how to integrate spirituality into daily life.
Example: If you’re juggling a busy professional life with a desire to pursue spiritual growth, the Gita teaches how to maintain balance and prioritize your spiritual well-being.

10. For Attaining Liberation (Moksha)

The ultimate aim of the Gita is to guide individuals towards moksha—liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It shows that by understanding one’s true nature as the eternal soul (Atman) and detaching from material attachments, one can attain freedom from worldly suffering.
How it’s required: Through selfless action, devotion, and knowledge, the Gita offers a path to liberation and freedom from the cycle of reincarnation.
Example: If you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment and freedom from suffering, the Gita provides the philosophical framework and practical path to achieve that goal.

Conclusion:

The Bhagavad Gita is required because it offers universal wisdom for anyone seeking to live a life of purpose, clarity, peace, and spiritual growth. It is needed in moments of confusion, decision-making, stress, moral dilemmas, or when seeking to improve one’s inner world. By applying the Gita’s teachings, you can navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and find balance in both material and spiritual pursuits.

Case study is Bhagavad Gita ?

The Bhagavad Gita itself can be considered a case study in a broader sense. It presents a real-life scenario, the dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, where philosophical, ethical, and spiritual teachings are shared to help Arjuna make critical decisions. This narrative and conversation form a case study of personal and moral dilemmas, which has been analyzed and applied in various contexts throughout history.

Here’s how the Bhagavad Gita functions as a case study:

1. Context of the Case Study:

Situation: Arjuna, the great warrior prince, is on the verge of a moral and existential crisis before a major battle. He is confused and emotionally disturbed about the imminent war, especially the prospect of fighting his family members, teachers, and friends.
Conflict: Arjuna is torn between his duty as a warrior (Kshatriya), which demands that he fight, and his emotional distress at the destruction that will occur, along with the spiritual cost of fighting.
Mentor (Lord Krishna): Krishna acts as the guiding figure in this case study, offering philosophical teachings and advice to help Arjuna navigate his dilemma.

2. Core Themes Addressed in the Case Study:

Duty (Dharma): Arjuna faces the challenge of performing his duty (dharma) in the face of emotional conflict. Krishna teaches him that fulfilling one’s duty, without attachment to the outcome, is essential.
Ethical Dilemma: Arjuna’s dilemma represents a common moral challenge—choosing between personal emotions and universal responsibilities. Krishna teaches him to act selflessly, focusing on righteousness rather than personal feelings or fears.
The Nature of the Self (Atman): Krishna also helps Arjuna understand that the soul is eternal and indestructible, which provides Arjuna with the perspective needed to rise above his concerns about death and destruction.
Selfless Action (Karma Yoga): Krishna teaches Arjuna the importance of selfless action (karma yoga)—acting without attachment to the fruits of one’s actions. This concept is pivotal in resolving his internal conflict.
Devotion (Bhakti Yoga): Krishna emphasizes the role of devotion, urging Arjuna to surrender to the divine will and act with love and devotion.
Knowledge (Jnana Yoga): Krishna introduces Arjuna to the wisdom of the eternal soul and the knowledge of ultimate reality, helping him transcend his human limitations and view the situation from a higher perspective.

3. Resolution of the Case Study:

After hearing Lord Krishna’s teachings, Arjuna gradually overcomes his confusion and emotional turmoil. He gains clarity about his role in the world and his duty, leading him to take action and fight the battle in accordance with dharma.
Arjuna’s transformation from confusion to resolve exemplifies how philosophical teachings can guide individuals through personal and moral crises.

4. Learning from the Case Study:

The Bhagavad Gita teaches timeless principles for resolving conflicts, making ethical decisions, and understanding the deeper meaning of life. It shows that, like Arjuna, anyone can face internal turmoil and uncertainty. However, by engaging with higher wisdom, such as understanding one’s duty and focusing on spiritual growth, people can rise above their dilemmas.
The Gita’s teachings are universal and can be applied to various modern-day problems, such as career decisions, ethical challenges, relationships, and personal growth.

5. Practical Application of the Case Study:

Modern Relevance: The Bhagavad Gita is applied as a guide in modern scenarios where individuals face dilemmas about right and wrong, professional ethics, family responsibilities, and emotional challenges.
Corporate Decision Making: Leaders and managers can draw lessons from the Gita on how to make decisions based on duty and ethics, rather than personal bias or attachment to outcomes.
Personal Growth: The Gita’s teachings on selfless action, detachment, and spiritual wisdom offer valuable tools for personal development and stress management.

Conclusion:

The Bhagavad Gita is a powerful case study that demonstrates how one can overcome inner conflicts, make ethical decisions, and achieve inner peace. Arjuna’s internal struggle, the wisdom provided by Krishna, and the eventual resolution offer insights that can be applied in any context where individuals face difficult choices or personal dilemmas. It is not just a religious scripture, but a practical guide to navigating life’s complexities.

COURTESY : Anmol Sathi

White paper on Bhagavad Gita ?

White Paper on the Bhagavad Gita: A Guide to Ethical Decision-Making, Self-Realization, and Personal Growth

Introduction

The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, is one of the most important texts in world philosophy and spiritual literature. It presents a dialogue between the prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. The conversation takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, just before a great war is about to begin, where Arjuna is overwhelmed by doubt and moral confusion. The Bhagavad Gita offers deep philosophical insights into duty (dharma), selfless action (karma yoga), devotion (bhakti yoga), and spiritual knowledge (jnana yoga), providing a roadmap to overcome personal dilemmas, find inner peace, and live a life aligned with higher purpose.

This white paper aims to explore the key teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and examine how its principles are relevant to ethical decision-making, self-realization, and personal growth in contemporary society.

1. The Context of the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita begins at a moment of crisis for Arjuna. As the two armies prepare for battle, Arjuna faces an internal moral conflict. His duty as a warrior requires him to fight in the battle, but he is reluctant to do so because it involves killing his own relatives, teachers, and friends. He is struck by the ethical dilemma of fighting in a war that will lead to destruction and suffering. This dilemma represents a universal human challenge: making decisions that align with personal ethics while navigating external pressures.

At this critical juncture, Arjuna turns to his charioteer, Lord Krishna, for guidance, seeking clarity on his duty and the righteousness of the battle. Krishna uses this moment to impart profound philosophical teachings that provide Arjuna with a higher perspective on life, duty, and the nature of existence.

2. Core Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita

A. Duty and Righteousness (Dharma) One of the central concepts in the Bhagavad Gita is dharma—one’s righteous duty or responsibility. Krishna teaches Arjuna that it is his duty as a warrior to fight for justice, regardless of his personal feelings or attachments. The Gita stresses that one must fulfill their responsibilities in life according to their role in society, without attachment to the outcomes of their actions.

Application: In modern life, dharma translates to fulfilling one’s roles in family, work, and society in an ethical and responsible manner. Whether one is a parent, professional, or community member, embracing duty with integrity is a key to ethical decision-making.

B. Selfless Action (Karma Yoga) Krishna advises Arjuna to act without attachment to the results of his actions, a concept known as karma yoga. By doing so, one can maintain a state of equanimity, regardless of success or failure. Selfless action involves dedicating the fruits of one’s efforts to the greater good, without the ego-driven desire for personal gain.

Application: In professional and personal settings, karma yoga teaches individuals to focus on their efforts and processes, rather than becoming overly concerned with outcomes. This is particularly helpful in high-pressure environments where external success often does not reflect internal growth or well-being.

C. Devotion and Surrender (Bhakti Yoga) Krishna also emphasizes the importance of bhakti yoga, or the path of devotion. He teaches Arjuna that surrendering to divine will and seeking refuge in the Supreme can lead to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. By cultivating devotion, an individual can transcend ego and attachment, and experience divine guidance and protection.

Application: The principle of bhakti yoga can be applied to various forms of devotion in life, not necessarily limited to religious practices. It can involve a sense of commitment and passion towards a cause, purpose, or higher ideal. Trusting in a greater purpose often helps individuals cope with challenges and uncertainties in life.

D. Knowledge and Self-Realization (Jnana Yoga) Finally, Krishna introduces Arjuna to jnana yoga, the path of wisdom and knowledge. He explains that understanding the true nature of the self (atman), and the impermanence of the material world, leads to liberation (moksha). The realization that the soul is eternal and beyond physical death helps Arjuna overcome his fear and confusion about fighting the battle.

Application: In the modern world, jnana yoga translates to self-awareness and understanding the deeper aspects of one’s identity. By practicing mindfulness and introspection, individuals can achieve clarity about their inner purpose and develop resilience in the face of challenges.

3. Relevance of the Bhagavad Gita in Contemporary Society

While the Bhagavad Gita was written thousands of years ago, its teachings continue to have a profound impact in today’s world. Here are a few ways the Gita remains relevant:

A. Ethical Leadership and Decision Making In corporate and political settings, leaders can draw inspiration from the Gita’s teachings on dharma and karma yoga. Ethical decision-making, responsibility towards stakeholders, and dedication to the welfare of society are key principles that can guide modern leaders in navigating complex situations.

B. Coping with Stress and Anxiety The Gita’s teachings on detachment, selfless action, and the impermanence of life offer practical tools for managing stress and anxiety. In today’s fast-paced world, where performance and success are often tied to external validation, Arjuna’s journey encourages individuals to focus on the process, rather than being overly attached to outcomes.

C. Personal Growth and Spirituality The Gita promotes self-awareness and spiritual growth through jnana yoga and bhakti yoga. By understanding the nature of the self, individuals can experience greater peace and fulfillment in life, regardless of external circumstances. Many people turn to the Bhagavad Gita for spiritual guidance and to cultivate a deeper understanding of their purpose in life.

4. Conclusion

The Bhagavad Gita is not just a spiritual text; it is a profound guide to living an ethical, meaningful, and balanced life. Its teachings on duty, selfless action, devotion, and knowledge provide timeless wisdom for overcoming personal dilemmas, achieving inner peace, and contributing to the welfare of society. In a world filled with complexities, the Gita offers a roadmap for navigating challenges with clarity and purpose, making it as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.

As individuals and leaders, we can draw inspiration from Arjuna’s journey and Krishna’s guidance to make ethical decisions, develop inner strength, and contribute to a more compassionate and just world.

5. References

Bhagavad Gita: Translations and Commentaries by Swami Sivananda, Swami Vivekananda, Eknath Easwaran, etc.
“The Bhagavad Gita as a Guide to Living” by Georg Feuerstein
“Bhagavad Gita: A New Commentary” by Ravi Ravindra

Industrial application of Bhagavad Gita ?

Industrial Applications of the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita, although a spiritual and philosophical text, offers timeless wisdom that can be effectively applied in various industrial contexts. Its teachings provide valuable insights into leadership, decision-making, personal development, ethical practices, and conflict resolution. By integrating the principles of the Gita into industrial settings, companies and professionals can foster a culture of ethical conduct, enhance productivity, and promote well-being in the workplace.

Here are some key industrial applications of the Bhagavad Gita:

1. Leadership and Management

Gita’s Teachings on Leadership:

The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the concept of selfless leadership. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to act without attachment to personal gains and to focus on the greater good, which is a vital lesson for modern leaders.
Krishna advocates for leading by example and aligning actions with values such as integrity, commitment, and dedication.

Industrial Application:

Ethical Leadership: Leaders in industries can apply the Gita’s principles of dharma (duty) and karma yoga (selfless action) to make decisions that prioritize long-term benefits for the organization and society, rather than short-term personal gains.
Decision-Making: Krishna’s teachings about understanding one’s true purpose and acting in line with higher values can guide industrial leaders to make tough decisions that balance profitability with ethical responsibility.
Leading Teams: Just as Krishna provides Arjuna with guidance and mentorship, industrial leaders can support their teams by providing clear vision, encouragement, and direction.

2. Workplace Ethics and Integrity

Gita’s Teachings on Ethics:

The Bhagavad Gita teaches that individuals must act in accordance with righteousness (dharma), ensuring that their actions are morally sound and contribute to the well-being of all.
The concept of detachment (acting without attachment to the results) encourages individuals to perform their duties with focus, discipline, and a sense of responsibility rather than selfish desires.

Industrial Application:

Corporate Governance: Businesses can adopt the Gita’s emphasis on ethical behavior to develop strong corporate governance frameworks. This includes promoting transparency, honesty, and fairness in all business practices.
Integrity in Operations: The teaching to act selflessly and to focus on the quality of work can lead to higher standards of production, customer service, and environmental responsibility in industries.
Workplace Culture: By encouraging employees to follow ethical principles and act in a morally responsible manner, companies can build a culture of integrity and trust.

3. Conflict Resolution and Stress Management

Gita’s Teachings on Conflict Resolution:

In the Gita, Arjuna faces a profound inner conflict about participating in the war, reflecting a moral dilemma. Krishna resolves this by imparting knowledge that encourages Arjuna to rise above personal attachments and act according to his higher purpose.
The teachings of detachment and peaceful action emphasize the importance of managing emotions and focusing on one’s duties without being swayed by external pressures.

Industrial Application:

Conflict Resolution: In the workplace, employees and managers can use the Gita’s principles to resolve disputes and conflicts constructively. The Gita advocates for resolving issues by understanding the larger purpose and focusing on the common goal.
Stress Management: The Gita’s teachings on detachment and mental discipline can help individuals manage stress. By focusing on their roles and not getting overly attached to outcomes, employees can remain calm under pressure and handle challenges more effectively.
Emotional Intelligence: Krishna teaches Arjuna to rise above his emotions and focus on rational decision-making. This can be applied in the workplace to enhance emotional intelligence, promoting better interpersonal relationships and communication.

4. Personal Development and Professional Growth

Gita’s Teachings on Self-Development:

The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes self-awareness, knowledge of the self (atman), and the importance of recognizing one’s purpose in life. Krishna urges Arjuna to overcome self-doubt and act according to his true nature, emphasizing the need for personal growth.
The concept of Karma Yoga (selfless action) encourages professionals to strive for excellence in their work, irrespective of the rewards, and to cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement.

Industrial Application:

Continuous Learning: The Gita encourages personal development through knowledge and self-discipline. Employees in industries can be motivated to engage in lifelong learning, upgrading skills, and enhancing capabilities.
Professional Ethics: By following the principles of duty and selfless action, individuals can focus on excellence and integrity in their professional roles, leading to growth and long-term success.
Performance without Attachment: The Gita’s emphasis on doing work without attachment to results promotes a growth mindset, where employees focus on doing their best and improving their skills without getting discouraged by failures.

5. Teamwork and Collaboration

Gita’s Teachings on Cooperation:

The Gita highlights the importance of working together towards a common goal. Lord Krishna emphasizes that individuals, like Arjuna, must understand their roles and contribute selflessly to the collective effort.
Krishna stresses the value of teamwork and collective responsibility while ensuring that each individual works in harmony with the larger plan.

Industrial Application:

Effective Teamwork: The Bhagavad Gita’s teachings can be applied to build cohesive teams within organizations. By encouraging employees to align their personal goals with the organization’s mission, teamwork can be enhanced, and collective performance can be optimized.
Shared Responsibility: Leaders and managers can implement the Gita’s principle of collective responsibility to ensure that every team member feels valued and understands their role in the larger organizational vision.
Collaboration in Diverse Teams: The Gita encourages working without ego, focusing on shared values and goals. In diverse work environments, this can promote inclusivity, reduce conflict, and foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

6. Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

Gita’s Teachings on Environmental Stewardship:

The Bhagavad Gita encourages individuals to perform their duties with a sense of balance and respect for all living beings. Krishna teaches that actions should not cause harm to the environment or other creatures, advocating for a mindset that seeks harmony with nature.

Industrial Application:

Sustainable Business Practices: Companies can integrate the teachings of the Gita into their environmental strategies by adopting sustainable practices that promote ecological balance and reduce harm to the environment.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Businesses can foster a culture of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by recognizing their role in the well-being of society and taking steps to improve the quality of life for future generations.
Holistic Approach to Business: The Gita’s emphasis on balance and harmony can be applied to develop a more holistic business model that focuses on economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

7. Innovation and Problem-Solving

Gita’s Teachings on Creativity and Problem-Solving:

The Bhagavad Gita encourages individuals to seek higher wisdom and adopt a perspective that transcends conventional thinking. Krishna teaches that by focusing on self-realization, individuals can access inner wisdom to solve complex problems and innovate.

Industrial Application:

Innovation Mindset: The Gita’s teachings encourage individuals to seek creative solutions by focusing on higher goals and the greater good, which can be applied in research and development, engineering, and other fields of innovation.
Problem-Solving Approach: By adopting the Gita’s principles of clear thinking, detachment, and wisdom, organizations can develop more effective and innovative approaches to problem-solving.

Conclusion

The Bhagavad Gita provides a wealth of wisdom that is highly applicable to modern industrial practices. Its teachings on leadership, ethics, personal development, and teamwork offer valuable guidance for creating a more harmonious, efficient, and ethical work environment. By incorporating the principles of the Gita, industries can foster an organizational culture that values integrity, sustainability, and selfless service, ultimately contributing to both personal and collective success.

Research and development of Bhagavad Gita ?

Research and Development of the Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita is not only a religious or philosophical text but also a subject of scholarly research across multiple disciplines, including philosophy, theology, psychology, sociology, and even modern management and leadership studies. Since its composition, various scholars, institutions, and researchers have delved deeply into understanding and interpreting the Gita’s timeless wisdom. The research and development (R&D) around the Bhagavad Gita encompass different approaches, ranging from textual analysis to its application in modern contexts.

1. Textual and Philosophical Research

Historical and Textual Analysis: The Bhagavad Gita is often studied in the context of the Mahabharata, where it is found as a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna. Scholars have explored the text’s historical context, its origins, and its relationship with the Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient Indian scriptures.
- Modern Translations and Commentaries: Over time, the Gita has been translated into numerous languages, and each translation often involves interpretation based on the translator’s understanding and philosophy. Various scholars, such as Swami Vivekananda, Adi Shankaracharya, Eknath Easwaran, and others, have written commentaries offering different perspectives on its meaning.
- Philosophical Schools of Thought: The Bhagavad Gita has been studied from various philosophical schools, including Advaita Vedanta, Dvaita Vedanta, Yoga, and Samkhya. These interpretations focus on metaphysical concepts such as Brahman, Atman, karma, dharma, and moksha.
- Comparative Studies: The Gita has also been analyzed in comparison with other world philosophies and scriptures, including the Bible, the Quran, and Buddhist texts. Research in this area aims to understand commonalities and differences in the spiritual teachings of various cultures.

2. Theological Research

Religious Interpretations: Scholars and theologians from different religious traditions have studied the Bhagavad Gita to understand its spiritual significance. Hindu scholars consider it one of the most important texts in understanding Bhakti, Jnana, and Karma Yoga. The text’s pantheistic view of God and its teachings on devotion (Bhakti) have been subjects of extensive theological research.
Interfaith Dialogue: The Gita’s inclusivity of different paths to spirituality has been a point of interest for interfaith dialogues. Researchers from different religious backgrounds explore its message of unity and universal truth, focusing on how the Gita can help foster mutual respect and understanding between faiths.
Modern Spirituality: The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are applied in contemporary spiritual practices. It has become central to the spiritual movement globally, and many modern gurus and spiritual leaders have incorporated its teachings in their practices, such as Transcendental Meditation, Yoga, and Mindfulness.

3. Psychological Research

Mental Health and Self-Realization: Researchers have explored the Bhagavad Gita’s relevance in psychology and mental health. Its teachings about overcoming doubt, stress, and emotional turbulence are applied in therapeutic settings, especially in the context of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices.
Cognitive and Emotional Development: The Gita provides insights into human psychology, especially in terms of managing emotions, such as fear, anger, and sadness. Psychological scholars have drawn parallels between the Gita’s emphasis on self-awareness and self-control and modern theories in emotional intelligence.
Stress Management: The concepts of detachment, duty (dharma), and selfless action (karma yoga) are seen as ways to alleviate stress and anxiety. Studies have demonstrated that the principles of the Gita are applied in mindfulness and meditative techniques to develop mental resilience.

4. Sociological and Cultural Research

Impact on Indian Society: The Bhagavad Gita plays a central role in shaping the social, cultural, and ethical fabric of India. Scholars in the field of sociology have researched the Gita’s role in influencing social norms, values, and caste structures in ancient and modern India.
Women Empowerment: The Gita is sometimes referenced in discussions about the role of women in society, especially through its emphasis on duty and self-realization. Some researchers have explored the ways in which the Gita’s teachings might influence contemporary views on gender equality.
Social Justice and Ethics: The teachings of the Gita emphasize justice and the ethical treatment of all beings. Researchers study how its principles of justice (dharma) and compassion are relevant in discussions of human rights, social equality, and distributive justice.

5. Application in Modern Leadership and Management

Corporate Leadership and Ethics: In recent decades, the Bhagavad Gita has gained recognition in management and leadership studies, with scholars exploring how its teachings can enhance corporate governance and leadership styles.
- Leadership Principles: The concept of selfless leadership (acting for the greater good rather than personal gain) is one of the Gita’s most significant contributions to modern management. It aligns with ethical decision-making, corporate responsibility, and leadership based on integrity and values.
- Karma Yoga in Work: Karma yoga (selfless work) has been applied to modern management practices, encouraging individuals to focus on work and outcomes without attachment to personal rewards. This can enhance employee engagement, reduce burnout, and lead to more productive work environments.
- Conflict Resolution: The conflict Arjuna faces in the Gita offers an analogy for conflict resolution in workplaces. Managers and leaders apply Krishna’s teachings on how to navigate complex decision-making processes and maintain clarity during challenging situations.

6. Educational Research

Curriculum Development: The Bhagavad Gita is increasingly being integrated into educational curricula across the world. Scholars explore its potential as a resource for personal development, moral education, and character building.
Life Skills and Character Education: The teachings on self-discipline, focus, and mindfulness in the Gita have found applications in life skills education. It encourages individuals to cultivate virtues like patience, perseverance, and humility, which are vital for personal and professional success.
Educational Institutions: Some universities and research institutions have set up departments or centers dedicated to studying ancient texts, including the Bhagavad Gita. These institutions often focus on interdisciplinary research, blending ancient wisdom with modern education techniques.

7. Technological Research and Innovation

Leadership in Innovation: As companies increasingly look for ways to integrate philosophical and spiritual insights into the corporate world, the Gita’s principles can offer a fresh perspective on leadership, particularly in the field of technological innovation.
Ethics in Technology: The Bhagavad Gita offers profound guidance on ethical practices, which is crucial in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), data privacy, and bioethics. The text can guide researchers in understanding the humanistic aspects of technology and how to balance progress with moral responsibility.

8. Global Research Initiatives

International Conferences: Several international conferences and symposiums have been dedicated to the Bhagavad Gita, bringing together scholars from different fields to discuss its relevance in the modern world. These events often focus on the intersection of spirituality, philosophy, and science.
Global Interest: The Bhagavad Gita is gaining popularity in Western societies as part of the broader interest in Eastern philosophy. Many Western scholars are exploring its ideas on self-realization, detachment, and duty in the context of modern psychology, philosophy, and leadership.

Conclusion

The research and development of the Bhagavad Gita spans multiple academic disciplines and practical applications. From philosophical analysis to psychological well-being, leadership studies, and ethical business practices, the Gita provides a wellspring of knowledge that continues to inspire and guide individuals and organizations across the world. As the world evolves, the relevance of the Bhagavad Gita’s teachings only deepens, offering timeless wisdom that continues to inform both individual and collective progress.

COURTESY : Rj Kartik

Reference

^ “Bhagavad-Gita”. Random House Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary.
^ Davis 2014, p. 2.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Sharma 1986, p. 3.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, p. xxiv.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Buitenen 2013, pp. 6, Quote: “ca. 200 BC is a likely date”..
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Doniger 2024.
^ ^[3]^[4]^[5]^[6]
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Smith 2009, p. xii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d McLeod 2014, p. 168–169.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Minor 1982, p. xxxiv, Quote: “Therefore, instead of the traditional view of authorship, many scholars have argued that the Gita is not the work of one author but a composite work.”.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1991). The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism. Oxford University Press. pp. 85–87. ISBN 978-0-19-507349-2.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Scheepers 2000, pp. 122–127.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Flood & Martin 2013, p. xxvi.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Zaehner 1973, p. 200.
^ Flood 1996, p. 124-128.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Sutton 2017, p. 113.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b De Michelis 2005.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Birch 2013.
^ Prabhavananda, Swami; Isherwood, Christopher (2002). Bhagavad-Gita: The words of God. Signet Classic. ISBN 978-0-451-52844-5.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j ^k ^l ^m ⁿ ^o ^p ^q ^r ^s ^t translated by Sir Edwin Arnold (1885), Bhagavadgita (Unabridged ed.), New York: Dover Publications (1993 Reprint), ISBN 0-486-27782-8
^ Cornille 2006.
^ Majumdar, Sachindra Kumar (1991). The Bhagavad Gita: A Scripture for the Future. Asian Humanities Press. ISBN 978-0-89581-885-0.
^ Mookherjee, Braja Dulal (2002). The Essence of Bhagavad Gita. Academic Publishers. p. 18. ISBN 978-81-87504-40-5. Bhagavad Gita means that Celestial Song.
^ Dalal, Roshen (2010). Hinduism: An Alphabetical Guide. Penguin Books. pp. 409–411.
^ Sharma 1986, p. ix.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xxiv–xxiv.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1991). The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism. Oxford University Press. pp. 95–96. ISBN 978-0-19-507349-2.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Sargeant 2009, pp. 3–4.
^ Heather Elgood (2000). Hinduism and the Religious Arts. A&C Black. pp. 13–14. ISBN 978-0-304-70739-3.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Upadhyaya 1998, pp. 16–18.
^ Moriz Winternitz (1996). A History of Indian Literature: Buddhist literature and Jaina literature. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 258–259. ISBN 978-81-208-0265-0.
^ Upadhyaya 1998, pp. 17–19.
^ Étienne Lamotte (1929). Notes sur la Bhagavadgita. Librairie Orientaliste Paul Geuthner. pp. 126–127.
^ Singh, Upinder (2008). A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India: From the Stone Age to the 12th Century. Pearson Education India. pp. 436–438. ISBN 978-81-317-1120-0.
^ Osmund Bopearachchi, Emergence of Viṣṇu and Śiva Images in India: Numismatic and Sculptural Evidence Archived 5 April 2022 at the Wayback Machine, 2016.
^ Srinivasan, Doris (1997). Many Heads, Arms, and Eyes: Origin, Meaning, and Form of Multiplicity in Indian Art. BRILL. p. 215. ISBN 978-90-04-10758-8.
^ Fowler 2012, p. xxvi
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 16.
^ David Slavitt (2015). Mahabharata. Northwestern University Press. p. vii. ISBN 978-0-8101-3060-9.
^ T.A. Gopinatha Rao (1985). Elements of Hindu Iconography. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. xvii, 58–61. ISBN 978-81-208-0878-2.
^ Lawrence Cohen (1991). Robert L. Brown (ed.). Ganesh: Studies of an Asian God. State University of New York Press. p. 132. ISBN 978-0-7914-0656-4.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Buitenen 2013, pp. 5–6
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. pp. 3–4.
^ James L. Fitzgerald (1983). “The Great Epic of India as Religious Rhetoric: A Fresh Look at the “Mahābhārata””. Journal of the American Academy of Religion. 51 (4): 615–619, context: 611–630.
^ Hudson 2002, pp. 9, 160–163.
^ Hudson 2002, p. 133.
^ Hudson 2002, pp. 156–157.
^ Hudson 2002, p. 157.
^ Hudson 2002, pp. 162–163.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xxi–xxii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 18–19
^ Friedrich Otto Schrader (1908). A descriptive catalogue of the Sanskrit manuscripts in the Adyar Library. Adyar Library Oriental Pub. p. 57.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Upadhyaya 1998, pp. 10–12 with footnote 1 on p. 11.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d Minor 1982, pp. l–li, Quote: “The current text of the Bhagavad Gita is well-preserved with relatively few variant readings and none quite serious. This is especially remarkable in the light of the numerous variants for the remainder of the Mahabharata, some of which are quite serious. Secondary insertions are found in individual manuscripts of the Gita, but these are secondary. The number of stanzas in the Gita is 700, a number confirmed by Shankara, and possibly deliberately chosen to prevent interpolations.”
^ Gambhirananda 1997, p. xvii.
^ Minor 1982, pp. l–li.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Minor 1982, pp. l–ii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. p. xxviii. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Coburn 1991, p. 27.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Sargeant 2009, p. 8.
^ Egenes 2003, p. 4.
^ McLeod 2014, p. 136.
^ Fowler 2012, p. xxii
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d Davis 2014, pp. 1–2.
^ Kriyananda, Goswami (1994). The Bhagavad Gita (3rd ed.). Chicago, IL: The Temple of Kriya Yoga. p. 4. ISBN 978-0-9613099-3-0.
^ Deutsch & Dalvi 2004, pp. 59–61.
^ The Song Celestial, Or, Bhagavad-gîtâ (from the Mahâbhârata) Being a Discourse Between Arjuna, Prince of India, and the Supreme Being Under the Form of Krishna. Roberts Bros. 1885. pp. Book one the first, page 19.
^ Deutsch & Dalvi 2004, pp. 60–62.
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. pp. xv–xvi. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Smith 2009, pp. x–xviii.
^ Casebeer 1952, p. 94.
^ Casebeer 1952, p. 12-13.
^ Thompson 2008, p. xxvi, xxix.
^ Flood 1996, p. 125.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Hiltebeitel 2002.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Deutsch & Dalvi 2004, pp. 61–62.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Gavin Flood (2004). The Ascetic Self: Subjectivity, Memory and Tradition. Cambridge University Press. pp. 85–89 with notes. ISBN 978-0-521-60401-7.
^ Robin Gill (2017). Moral Passion and Christian Ethics. Cambridge University Press. pp. 129–130. ISBN 978-1-107-17682-9.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Raju 1992, p. 211.
^ Scheepers 2000.
^ Sutton, Nicholas (16 December 2016). Bhagavad-Gita. Blurb, Incorporated. p. 12. ISBN 978-1-366-61059-1.
^ Thompson 2008, p. xxxix.
^ Sargeant 2009, p. 519.
^ Gavin Flood (2004). The Ascetic Self: Subjectivity, Memory and Tradition. Cambridge University Press. pp. 83–84 with notes. ISBN 978-0-521-60401-7.
^ Jonardon Ganeri (2007). The Concealed Art of the Soul: Theories of Self and Practices of Truth in Indian Ethics and Epistemology. Oxford University Press. pp. 68–70. ISBN 978-0-19-920241-6.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Christopher G. Framarin (2006). “The Desire You Are Required to Get Rid of: A Functionalist Analysis of Desire in the Bhagavadgītā”. Philosophy East and West. 56 (4). University of Hawai’i Press: 604–617. doi:10.1353/pew.2006.0051. JSTOR 4488055. S2CID 170907654.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1991). The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism. Oxford University Press. pp. 86–87. ISBN 978-0-19-507349-2.
^ White, David (1971). “Human Perfection in the Bhagavadgita”. Philosophy East and West. 21 (1). University of Hawai’i Press: 43–53. doi:10.2307/1397763. JSTOR 1397763.
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 82, 95–96
^ Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. pp. 47–48, 73–74, 83–84.
^ Minor 1986, pp. 38–39, 123–128, 143.
^ Nicholson 2010, p. 7.
^ Singh 2005, p. 37.
^ Isaeva 1992, p. 35 with footnote 30.
^ Charlotte Vaudeville has said, it is the ‘real Bible of Krsnaism’. Quoted in: Matchett 2000
^ James Mulhern (1959). A History of Education: A Social Interpretation. p. 93.
^ Franklin Edgerton (1925) The Bhagavad Gita: Or, Song of the Blessed One, India’s Favorite Bible pp. 87-91
^ Davis 2014, p. 4-8.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Flood 1996, p. 124.
^ Davis 2014, pp. 39–40.
^ Minor 1982, pp. li–lii, Quote: “the Kashmir recension is a later reading of the Gita.” (note the different views of F Otto Schrader from those of SK Belvalkar as well as JAB van Buitenen.).
^ Buitenen 2013, pp. 6–7.
^ Maitra 2018, pp. 5–6.
^ Larson 2009, p. 187.
^ Robinson 2014, pp. viii–ix.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Robinson 2006, p. 5.
^ Minor 1986, pp. 34–35, 131–133, 147–149.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Minor 1986, pp. 11–14.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Minor 1986, pp. 154, 161–163.
^ Robinson 2006, pp. 69–70.
^ Minor 1986, pp. 34–43.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Hacker 1958, p. 261.
^ Minor 1986, pp. 44–57.
^ Minor 1986, p. 131.
^ Minor 1986, p. 144.
^ Robinson 2006, p. 69.
^ Flood 1996, p. 85.
^ Flood 1996, p. 96.
^ Matilal 2005, p. 4928.
^ Jones & Ryan 2007, p. 73.
^ Flood & Martin 2013, p. xxi.
^ Sargeant 2009, p. 551-553.
^ Davis 2014, p. 108-109.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Vivekananda 1998.
^ Cornille 2006, p. 2.
^ Davis 2014, p. 61-62.
^ Robinson 2006, pp. 69–70, 95–100.
^ Upadhyaya 1998, pp. 474–475.
^ Bose 1986, p. 71
^ Maitra 2018, p. 39.
^ Chidbhavananda 1997, p. 33
^ Chinmayananda 1998, p. 3
^ Ranganathananda 2000, pp. 15–25
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j ^k ^l ^m ⁿ ^o ^p ^q ^r Easwaran 2007, pp. 5–6.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ ^j ^k ^l ^m ⁿ ^o ^p ^q ^r Maitra 2018, pp. vii–viii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 71–82.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Sharma 1986, pp. xiv–xv.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Easwaran 2007, pp. 83–98.
^ Sharma 1986, pp. xv–xvi.
^ Smith 2009, p. xx.
^ Smith 2009, p. xxviii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d Easwaran 2007, pp. 99–110.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 50–63, 66–70.
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. p. xix. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 111–122.
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. p. xxi. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1991). The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism. Oxford University Press. p. 93. ISBN 978-0-19-507349-2.
^ Miller 1986, p. 59.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 123–132.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 91–103.
^ Easwaran 2007, p. 139.
^ Radhakrishnan 1993, p. 187.
^ Miller 1986, p. 63.
^ Sargeant 2009, p. 272.
^ Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. p. 118.
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. p. 49. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 133–146.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 106–120.
^ Schweig 2007, p. 327-328.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 147–156.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 157–168.
^ Sutton 2017, p. 137.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 169–178.
^ Southgate 2005, p. 246.
^ Max Bernhard Weinsten, Welt- und Lebensanschauungen, Hervorgegangen aus Religion, Philosophie und Naturerkenntnis (“World and Life Views, Emerging From Religion, Philosophy and Perception of Nature”) (1910), p. 213: “Wir werden später sehen, daß die Indier auch den Pandeismus gelehrt haben. Der letzte Zustand besteht in dieser Lehre im Eingehen in die betreffende Gottheit, Brahma oder Wischnu. So sagt in der Bhagavad-Gîtâ Krishna-Wischnu, nach vielen Lehren über ein vollkommenes Dasein.”
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 179–190.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 191–202.
^ T. S. Maxwell (1988). Viśvarūpa. Oxford University Press. pp. 131–136. ISBN 978-0-19-562117-4.
^ Kapila Vatsyayan; Bettina Bäumer; Ramesh Chandra Sharma (1988). Kalātattvakośa. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 79–81, 87–88. ISBN 978-81-208-1917-7.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 203–210.
^ Moffitt, John (1977). “The Bhagavad Gita as Way-Shower to the Transcendental”. Theological Studies. 38 (2). Sage Publications: 323, context: 316–331. doi:10.1177/004056397703800204. S2CID 170697131.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 211–220.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 216–221.
^ Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1991). The Origins and Development of Classical Hinduism. Oxford University Press. pp. 88–89. ISBN 978-0-19-507349-2.
^ Miller 1986, p. 12.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Easwaran 2007, pp. 221–228.
^ Sutton 2017, p. 218.
^ Sutton 2017, p. 215.
^ Miller 1986, pp. 12–13, 59.
^ Buitenen 2013, pp. =35–36.
^ Maitra 2018, pp. 17–18.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 229–234.
^ Sutton 2017, pp. 220–221.
^ Sutton 2017, pp. 225.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. pp. 44–45 with footnotes, context: pp. 30–54 (Part 2).
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 235–242.
^ Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. pp. 82–83 (Part 2), 149–153 (Part 1).
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. 253–257.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 243–250.
^ Franklin Edgerton (1952). The Bhagavad Gita, Part 2. Harvard University Press. pp. 70–71 (Part 2, Chapter IX).
^ Davis 2014, p. 32.
^ Easwaran 2007, pp. 251–265.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Fowler 2012, p. 2.
^ Zaehner 1969, pp. 123, 382.
^ Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 260.
^ Hacker 1958, pp. 1–15.
^ Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 261.
^ Jacqueline Hirst (1997). Julius Lipner (ed.). The Fruits of Our Desiring: An Enquiry Into the Ethics of the Bhagavadgītā for Our Times. Bayeux. p. 48. ISBN 978-1-896209-30-2.
^ Malinar 2007, p. 36.
^ Malinar 2007, pp. 36–41.
^ Miller 2004, p. 3.
^ Michaels 2004, p. 59.
^ Malinar 2007, pp. 36–39.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Miller 1986, pp. 1–8.
^ Jacqueline Hirst (1997). Julius Lipner (ed.). The Fruits of Our Desiring: An Enquiry Into the Ethics of the Bhagavadgītā for Our Times. Bayeux. pp. 50–58. ISBN 978-1-896209-30-2.
^ W.J. Johnson (2004). The Bhagavad Gita. Oxford University Press. pp. xi–xv. ISBN 978-0-19-283581-9.
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. pp. xxv–xxvii. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ Edwin Francis Bryant (2007). Krishna: A Sourcebook. Oxford University Press. p. 78. ISBN 978-0-19-803400-1.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xlv–xlviii
^ Sargeant 2009, pp. xxii–xxiii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xl.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xliii–iv.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xliii–xliv.
^ Stephen Phillips (2009). Yoga, Karma, and Rebirth: A Brief History and Philosophy. Columbia University Press. pp. 99–100. ISBN 978-0-231-14485-8.
^ Dharm Bhawuk (2011). Spirituality and Indian Psychology: Lessons from the Bhagavad-Gita. Springer Science. pp. 147–148 with footnotes. ISBN 978-1-4419-8110-3.
^ McDermott, Robert A. (1975). “Indian Spirituality in the West: A Bibliographical Mapping”. Philosophy East and West. 25 (2): 213–239. doi:10.2307/1397942. JSTOR 1397942.
^ Harold G. Coward (2012). Perfectibility of Human Nature in Eastern and Western Thought, The. State University of New York Press. pp. 142–145. ISBN 978-0-7914-7885-1.
^ Gandhi 2009, pp. xv–xxiv
^ Jonardon Ganeri (2007). The Concealed Art of the Soul: Theories of Self and Practices of Truth in Indian Ethics and Epistemology. Oxford University Press. pp. 67–69. ISBN 978-0-19-920241-6.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xlii–xliii.
^ Cornille 2006, p. 2
^ Sampatkumaran 1985, p. xxiii
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xxii–xxiv, xlii–xliii.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xl–xlii, 89–93.
^ P.T. Raju (1985). Structural Depths of Indian Thought. State University of New York Press. pp. 7–8. ISBN 978-0-88706-139-4.
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, p. 266.
^ Eknath Easwaran (2011). Essence of the Bhagavad Gita: A Contemporary Guide to Yoga, Meditation, and Indian Philosophy. Nilgiri Press. pp. 118, 281. ISBN 978-1-58638-068-7.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 72–90.
^ Sargeant 2009, pp. 201–242.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xli–xlii.
^ Robinson 2006, pp. 92–93, 133–134.
^ Minor 1986, pp. 131, 194–196.
^ Minor 1986, p. 123.
^ Trevor Leggett (1995). Realization of the Supreme Self: The Bhagavad Gītā Yoga’s. Routledge. pp. 48, 204–205, 222–231. ISBN 978-0-7103-0433-9.
^ Stephen H. Phillips (2009). Yoga, Karma, and Rebirth: A Brief History and Philosophy. Columbia University Press. pp. 178–179. ISBN 978-0-231-51947-2.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Zaehner 1969, pp. 13–15, 254.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Fowler 2012, pp. xxxix–xl.
^ Fowler 2012, p. xxxvi.
^ Juan Mascaró (1962). The Bhagavad Gita. Penguin. pp. xiv–xviii. ISBN 978-0-14-044121-5.
^ Paul Deussen (1980). Sixty Upaniṣads of the Veda. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 409–410. ISBN 978-81-208-1468-4.
^ [a] Atman, Oxford Dictionaries, Oxford University Press (2012), Quote: “1. real self of the individual; 2. a person’s Self”;
[b] John Bowker (2000), The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, Oxford University Press, ISBN 978-0-19-280094-7, See entry for Atman;
[c] WJ Johnson (2009), A Dictionary of Hinduism, Oxford University Press, ISBN 978-0-19-861025-0, See entry for Atman (self). (subscription or UK public library membership required)
^ John C. Plott et al. (2000), Global History of Philosophy: The Axial Age, Volume 1, Motilal Banarsidass, ISBN 978-81-208-0158-5, p. 63, Quote: “The Buddhist schools reject any Ātman concept. As we have already observed, this is the basic and ineradicable distinction between Hinduism and Buddhism”.
^ [a] Anatta Archived 22 January 2021 at the Wayback Machine, Encyclopædia Britannica (2013), Quote: “Anatta in Buddhism, the doctrine that there is in humans no permanent, underlying Self. The concept of anatta, or anatman, is a departure from the Hindu belief in atman (“the self”).”;
[b] Steven Collins (1994), Religion and Practical Reason (Editors: Frank Reynolds, David Tracy), State Univ of New York Press, ISBN 978-0-7914-2217-5, p. 64; Quote: “Central to Buddhist soteriology is the doctrine of not-self (Pali: anattā, Sanskrit: anātman, the opposed doctrine of ātman is central to Brahmanical thought). Put very briefly, this is the [Buddhist] doctrine that human beings have no soul, no self, no unchanging essence.”;
[c] Edward Roer (Translator), Shankara’s Introduction, p. 2, at Google Books to Brihad Aranyaka Upanishad, pp. 2–4;
[d] KN Jayatilleke (2010), Early Buddhist Theory of Knowledge, ISBN 978-81-208-0619-1, pp. 246–249, from note 385 onwards;
[e] Bruno Nagel (2000), Roy Perrett (editor), Philosophy of Religion: Indian Philosophy, Routledge, ISBN 978-0-8153-3611-2, p. 33, Quote: “The dispute with Buddhists, who do not accept an imperishable Self, gives the Atman schools [Vedanta, Kashmir Shaivism] a chance to articulate the intellectual aspects of their way to meditative liberation”.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. xxxv, xxxvii–xix.
^ T.S. Maxwell (1988). Viśvarūpa. Oxford University Press. pp. 131–135. ISBN 978-0-19-562117-4.
^ Kapila Vatsyayan; Bettina Bäumer; Ramesh Chandra Sharma (1988). Kalātattvakośa. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 79–81, 88. ISBN 978-81-208-1917-7.
^ R.D. Ranade (1982). Mysticism in Maharashtra: Indian Mysticism. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 67–68. ISBN 978-81-208-0576-7.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d Fowler 2012, pp. xxxiii–xxiv.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Zaehner 1969, pp. 30–32, 36–41.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Fowler 2012, pp. xxxiii–xxv.
^ Edwin F. Bryant (2007). Krishna: A Sourcebook. Oxford University Press. pp. 312–315. ISBN 978-0-19-972431-4.
^ Edgerton 1952, pp. 44–45 with footnote 1.
^ Smith 2009, p. xvii.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f ^g ^h ⁱ SGS Sadhale ( 1935), The Bhagavad Gita with Eleven Commentaries, Volume 1 & 2, pages 1–7
^ Neufeldt 1986, pp. 31–33.
^ Cornille 2006, p. 3.
^ Singh 2006, pp. 54–55
^ Davis 2014, pp. 55–56.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Dnyandev; Pradhan, Vitthal Ganesh (1987), Lambert, Hester Marjorie (ed.), Dnyaneshwari : Bhāvārthadipikā, State University of New York Press, pp. x–xi, ISBN 978-0-88706-487-6
^ Deutsch & Dalvi 2004, p. 60.
^ Abhinavagupta (Rājānaka.) (1983). Gītārthasaṅgraha. Translated by Arvind Sharma. Brill Academic. pp. 30–31 with footnotes. ISBN 90-04-06736-1.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Zaehner 1969, p. 3
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Flood 1996, p. 124
^ Alladi Mahadeva Sastry (1980). The Bhagavad Gita with the Commentary of Sri Sankaracharya. Samata.
^ Deutsch & Dalvi 2004, p. 97.
^ Alladi Mahadeva Sastry (1980). The Bhagavad Gita with the Commentary of Sri Sankaracharya. Samata. pp. ii, 1–6.
^ N.V. Isaeva (1993). Shankara and Indian Philosophy. State University of New York Press. pp. 211–214. ISBN 978-0-7914-1282-4.
^ Abhinavagupta (Rājānaka.) (1983). Gītārthasaṅgraha. Translated by Arvind Sharma. Brill Academic. pp. 30–35, 41–47 with footnotes. ISBN 90-04-06736-1.
^ Sampatkumaran 1985, p. xx
^ William M. Indich (1995). Consciousness in Advaita Vedanta. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 1–2, 97–102. ISBN 978-81-208-1251-2.
^ C.J. Bartley (2013). The Theology of Rāmānuja: Realism and Religion. Routledge. pp. 2–3, 87–91. ISBN 978-1-136-85306-7.
^ Sargeant 2009, pp. xxiii–xxiv.
^ Rao 2002, p. 86
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 37–38
^ SGS Sadhale ( 1936), The Bhagavad Gita with Eleven Commentaries, Volume 2 of 3
^ Edwin Bryant; Maria Ekstrand (2004). The Hare Krishna Movement: The Postcharismatic Fate of a Religious Transplant. Columbia University Press. pp. 175–176. ISBN 978-0-231-50843-8.
^ Agrawal 2013, p. 93.
^ Doderet, W. (1926). “The Passive Voice of the Jnanesvari”. Bulletin of the School of Oriental Studies, University of London. 4 (1): 59–64. doi:10.1017/S0041977X00102575. JSTOR 607401.
^ Gyaānadeva & Pradhan 1987
^ Jump up to:^a ^b D.C. Sircar (1996). Indian Epigraphy. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 53–54. ISBN 978-81-208-1166-9. Archived from the original on 15 April 2023. Retrieved 16 October 2018.
^ R.D. Ranade (1997). Tukaram. State University of New York Press. pp. 9–11. ISBN 978-1-4384-1687-8.
^ J. Gordon Melton (2011). Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays, Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations. ABC-CLIO. pp. 373–374. ISBN 978-1-59884-206-7.
^ Dnyandev; Pradhan, Vitthal Ganesh (1987), Lambert, Hester Marjorie (ed.), Dnyaneshwari : Bhāvārthadipikā, State University of New York Press, p. xviii with footnote 1, ISBN 978-0-88706-487-6
^ Karine Schomer; W.H. McLeod (1987). The Sants: Studies in a Devotional Tradition of India. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 219–223. ISBN 978-81-208-0277-3.
^ Christian Novetzke (2005). Guy L. Beck (ed.). Alternative Krishnas: Regional and Vernacular Variations on a Hindu Deity. State University of New York Press. pp. 113–118. ISBN 978-0-7914-6415-1.
^ Sharma 2000, p. 266.
^ Sharma 2000, p. 391.
^ For Aurobindo, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and Chinmayananda as notable commentators see: Sargeant 2009, p. xix
^ For Aurobindo as notable commentators, see: Gambhirananda 1997, p. xix
^ Stevenson, Robert W., “Tilak and the Bhagavadgita’s Doctrine of Karmayoga”, in: Minor 1986, p. 44
^ Stevenson, Robert W., “Tilak and the Bhagavadgita’s Doctrine of Karmayoga”, in: Minor 1986, p. 49
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Jordens, J.T.F., “Gandhi and the Bhagavadgita”, in: Minor 1986, p. 88
^ Gandhi 2009, First Edition 1946. Other editions: 1948, 1951, 1956.
^ A shorter edition, omitting the bulk of Desai’s additional commentary, has been published as: Anasaktiyoga: The Gospel of Selfless Action. Jim Rankin, editor. The author is listed as M.K. Gandhi; Mahadev Desai, translator. (Dry Bones Press, San Francisco, 1998) ISBN 1-883938-47-3.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e ^f Davis 2014, pp. 167–168, 175
^ Sargeant 2009, pp. xxiv–xxvi.
^ Arthur Osborne (1997). The Collected Works of Ramana Maharshi. Weiser. pp. 101–104. ISBN 978-0-87728-907-4.
^ “Bhagavad Gita The Song of God, Commentary by Swami Mukundananda”. Archived from the original on 1 December 2017. Retrieved 25 November 2017.
^ Yogananda 1995
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Nadkarni, M.V. (2016). The Bhagavad-Gita for the Modern Reader: History, Interpretations and Philosophy. Taylor & Francis. pp. 135–137. ISBN 978-1-315-43899-3.
^ Easwaran 1993
^ A. Pārthasārathy (2013). Bhagavad Gita. A. Parthasarathy. ISBN 978-93-81094-13-6.
^ Fowler 2012.
^ Theodor 2010.
^ Zaehner 1969.
^ Catherine Cornille (2006). Song Divine: Christian Commentaries on the Bhagavad Gītā. Peeters Publishers. ISBN 978-90-429-1769-9.
^ “Richa Tilokani’s The Teachings of Bhagavad Gita: Timeless Wisdom for the Modern Age”. Ritz Magazine. 28 June 2021. Archived from the original on 23 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021.
^ “Who Would Want a Woman’s Perspective on the Bhagavad Gita? A Writer’s Story”. She The People. 8 June 2021. Archived from the original on 28 July 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2021.
^ Dayananda Saraswati, Swami (2011). Bhagavad Gītā Home Study Course. Arsha Vidya Research and Publication Trust, Chennai. ISBN 978-93-80049-39-7.
^ “About Rahul Singh”. Rupa. Archived from the original on 23 December 2021. Retrieved 23 December 2021.
^ Gurumaa, Anandmurti (24 November 2021). Srimad Bhagavad Gita: (Succinct Commentary). Gurumaa Vani. ISBN 978-93-81464-68-7.
^ Gurumaa, Anandmurti (2024). Srimad Bhagavad Gita (in Hindi). Gurumaa Vani. ISBN 978-9381464168.
^ Vassie, R. (1988). Persian interpretations of the Bhagavadgita in the Mughal period : with special reference to the Sufi version of #Abd al-Raham Chishti (Ph.D. thesis). School of Oriental and African Studies (University of London). Archived from the original on 19 July 2021. Retrieved 19 July 2021.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e Gerald James Larson (1981), “The Song Celestial: Two centuries of the Bhagavad Gita in English”, Philosophy East and West, 31 (4), University of Hawai’i Press: 513–40, doi:10.2307/1398797, JSTOR 1398797
^ “Review: ‘The Teachings of Bhagavad Gita’ by Richa Tilokani”. Times of India. Archived from the original on 21 July 2021. Retrieved 23 July 2021.
^ Wilkins, Charles, ed. (1785). The Bhagavat-Geeta, Or, Dialogues of Krishna and Arjoon in Eighteen Lectures with notes. LONDON. Archived from the original on 27 November 2019. Retrieved 27 November 2019.
^ Garrett, John; Wilhelm, Humboldt, eds. (1849). The Bhagavat-Geeta, Or, Dialogues of Krishna and Arjoon in Eighteen Lectures. Bangalore: Wesleyan Mission Press. Retrieved 18 January 2017.
^ Sargeant 2009, p. 1.
^ Davis 2014, pp. 154–155.
^ George Thompson (2008). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. pp. xi–xii. ISBN 978-1-4668-3531-3.
^ Davis 2014, pp. 159–161.
^ Sargeant 2009, p. xxv.
^ Miller 1986, pp. 14–17
^ Bloom 1995, p. 531
^ Doniger, Wendy (August 1993), “Obituary: Barbara Stoler Miller”, Journal of Asian Studies, 52 (3): 813–15, doi:10.1017/S002191180003789X, JSTOR 2058944
^ Arvind Sharma (2014), Review: Three New Books on the “Bhagavad Gītā”, International Journal of Hindu Studies, Vol. 18, No. 2, p. 269
^ Galvin Flood; Charles Martin (2013). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. W.W. Norton & Company. p. xii. ISBN 978-0-393-34513-1.
^ W.J. Johnson (2004). The Bhagavad Gita. Oxford University Press. pp. vii–ix. ISBN 978-0-19-283581-9.
^ Davis 2014, pp. 80–81.
^ Davis 2014, pp. 157–158.
^ W.J. Johnson (2004). The Bhagavad Gita. Oxford University Press. pp. ix–xi. ISBN 978-0-19-283581-9.
^ Sharma 1986, pp. xvi–xxvii.
^ Minor 1982, pp. xx–xxi.
^ What had previously been known of Indian literature in Germany had been translated from the English. Winternitz 1972, p. 15
^ Buitenen 2013, p. xii; Emile Senart’s Translation: Wikisource.
^ Alain Porte (2004). Bhagavad Gîtâ (in French). Paris: Arléa Poche (n°6). p. 167. ISBN 2363082060. The book was reprinted in 2019.
^ Rawat, Virendra Singh (8 September 2015). “After selling 580 mn books, Gita Press faces labour crisis”. Business Standard. Archived from the original on 19 October 2017. Retrieved 12 October 2019.
^ Bhagavadgita, Chennai, India: Bharati Publications, 1997
^ A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada; et al. (2015). “Bhagavad Gita As It Is” (PDF). Bhaktivedanta Book Trust (1972 edition). Archived (PDF) from the original on 6 October 2017. Retrieved 6 October 2017.
^ Jones & Ryan 2007, p. 199
^ “F.A.T.E. – the First American Theistic Exibition [sic] – Back To Godhead”. Back to Godhead. 12 (7): 16–23. 1 July 1977. Archived from the original on 11 March 2018. Retrieved 8 February 2018.
^ Legend of Bagger Vance Archived 4 August 2014 at the Wayback Machine, Steven Rosen
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 264.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Hacker & Halbfass 1995, pp. 261–262.
^ Doranne Jacobson; Eleanor Zelliot; Susan Snow Wadley (1992). From untouchable to Dalit: essays on the Ambedkar Movement. Manohar Publications. pp. 21–22. ISBN 978-81-85425-37-5.
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 232–233.
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 96–97.
^ Fowler 2012, pp. 100, 118–119.
^ M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 233–234.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 266.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 267.
^ Hacker & Halbfass 1995, p. 268.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Jacqueline Hirst (1997). Julius Lipner (ed.). The Fruits of Our Desiring: An Enquiry Into the Ethics of the Bhagavadgītā for Our Times. Bayeux. pp. 50–51. ISBN 978-1-896209-30-2.
^ Jacqueline Hirst (1997). Julius Lipner (ed.). The Fruits of Our Desiring: An Enquiry Into the Ethics of the Bhagavadgītā for Our Times. Bayeux. pp. 50–58. ISBN 978-1-896209-30-2.
^ Olcott, Mason (1944). “The Caste System of India”. American Sociological Review. 9 (6). Sage Publications: 648–657. doi:10.2307/2085128. JSTOR 2085128.
^ Susan Bayly (2001). Caste, Society and Politics in India from the Eighteenth Century to the Modern Age. Cambridge University Press. pp. 13–14. ISBN 978-0-521-79842-6.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Maitra 2018, p. 22.
^ Jimmy Casas Klausen (2013). Elena Loizidou (ed.). Disobedience: Concept and Practice. Routledge. pp. 71–72. ISBN 978-1-135-14383-1.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c D.D. Kosambi (1962) Myth and Reality: Studies in the Formation of Indian Culture p. 19. (Popular Prakashail, Bombay)
^ Jump up to:^a ^b M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. 231–238.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b V. R. Narla (2010), The Truth About the Gita, pp. 154-159. Prometheus Books.
^ Krishnananda 1980, pp. 12–13
^ Easwaran 2007, p. 15.
^ Easwaran 2007, p. 15
^ Sargeant 2009, p. x.
^ Vivekananda, Swami, “Sayings and Utterances” , The Complete works of Swami Vivekananda, vol. 9
^ see Gandhi 2009
^ Fischer 2010, pp. 15–16
^ Aurobindo 2000, pp. 15–16
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Aurobindo 2000, pp. 20–21
^ Rosen, Steven; Krishna’s Song: A New Look at the Bhagavad Gita, p. 22.
^ Patton, Laurie L.; The Failure of Allegory in Fighting Words
^ Jump up to:^a ^b M.V. Nadkarni 2016, pp. Chapter 4
^ “Fields of Religious Interpretation: The Bhagavad Gita and War”. 5 January 2016. Archived from the original on 8 March 2023. Retrieved 8 March 2023.
^ Sawyer, Dana (2002). Aldous Huxley: A Biography. Crossroads Publishing Company. p. 99. ISBN 0-8245-1987-6.
^ “Obituary in the Los Angeles Times”. Los Angeles Times. 6 January 1986. Archived from the original on 7 March 2023. Retrieved 8 March 2023.
^ “Obituary in the NY Times”. The New York Times. 6 January 1986. Archived from the original on 7 March 2023. Retrieved 8 March 2023.
^ Isherwood, Christo6pher (1996). Diaries: Volume 1, 1939-1960, Edited and Introduced by Katherine Bucknell. HarperFlamingo. p. Introduction XII. ISBN 978-0061180002.
^ Isherwood, Christo6pher (199). Diaries: Volume 1, 1939-1960, Edited and Introduced by Katherine Bucknell. HarperFlamingo. p. 117. ISBN 978-0061180002.
^ The Gita and War
^ Bhagavad Gita – The Song of God, 2023 Edition, The Gita and War, page 149
^ Minor 1986, pp. 65–73.
^ Vishwanath Prasad Varma (1990). The Political Philosophy of Sri Aurobindo. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 232–235. ISBN 978-81-208-0686-3.
^ Nicholas Owen (2007), The British Left and India: Metropolitan Anti-Imperialism, 1885-1947, Oxford University Press, p.67
^ V. R. Narla (2010), The Truth About the Gita, pp. 126-135. Prometheus Books.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c D.D. Kosambi (1962) Myth and Reality: Studies in the Formation of Indian Culture p. 21. (Popular Prakashail, Bombay).
^ Engels, Jeremy David (2021). The Ethics of Oneness: Emerson, Whitman, and the Bhagavad Gita, pp. 14-15. University of Chicago Press.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c ^d ^e P. Lal (2019). The Bhagavadgita, Introduction. Orient Paperbacks
^ Jump up to:^a ^b Ananya Vajpeyi (2012). Righteous Republic: The Political Foundations of Modern India. Harvard University Press. pp. 66–67. ISBN 978-0-674-06728-8.
^ “Gita, Gandhi and Godse”. The Hindu. 29 January 2015. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 20 September 2024.
^ Miller 1986, pp. 149–150.
^ Jump up to:^a ^b ^c Balodhi, JP; Keshavan, MS (1986). “Bhagavadgita and Psychotherapy” (PDF). NIMHANS. 4 (2): 139–143.

Vrindawan Academy

Key Themes of the Bhagavad Gita:

Structure:

What is Bhagavad Gita ?

Context:

Key Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita:

Structure:

Influence:

Who is required Bhagavad Gita ?

1. Those Facing Moral Dilemmas or Life Challenges

2. Spiritual Seekers and Devotees

3. People Seeking to Live Righteously (Dharma)

4. Those Pursuing Personal Growth

5. Leaders and Decision-Makers

6. Anyone Seeking Inner Peace and Balance

7. Those Interested in Different Paths of Yoga

When is required Bhagavad Gita ?

1. During Times of Personal Crisis or Conflict

2. When Seeking Purpose or Meaning in Life

3. When Facing Challenges or Obstacles

4. During Times of Emotional or Mental Distress

5. When Seeking Spiritual Growth or Enlightenment

6. When Facing a Leadership Role or Need for Guidance

7. During Difficult Relationships or Family Matters

8. When Seeking Peace and Inner Harmony

Conclusion:

Where is required Bhagavad Gita ?

1. In the Heart and Mind of the Seeker

2. In Times of Crisis or Decision-Making

3. In Spiritual or Religious Contexts

4. In Educational and Learning Environments

5. During Meditation or Contemplation

6. In Leadership and Professional Environments

7. In Family and Social Life

8. In the Battlefield of Life

Conclusion:

How is required Bhagavad Gita ?

1. For Clarity in Confusion

2. For Guidance in Decision-Making

3. For Spiritual Growth and Self-Realization

4. For Personal Discipline and Self-Control

5. For Coping with Life’s Challenges

6. For Ethical Living and Moral Guidance

7. For Leading with Wisdom and Compassion

8. For Inner Peace and Contentment

9. For Balancing Material and Spiritual Life

10. For Attaining Liberation (Moksha)

Conclusion:

Case study is Bhagavad Gita ?

1. Context of the Case Study:

2. Core Themes Addressed in the Case Study:

3. Resolution of the Case Study:

4. Learning from the Case Study:

5. Practical Application of the Case Study:

Conclusion:

White paper on Bhagavad Gita ?

White Paper on the Bhagavad Gita: A Guide to Ethical Decision-Making, Self-Realization, and Personal Growth

Introduction

1. The Context of the Bhagavad Gita

2. Core Teachings of the Bhagavad Gita

3. Relevance of the Bhagavad Gita in Contemporary Society

4. Conclusion

5. References

Industrial application of Bhagavad Gita ?

Industrial Applications of the Bhagavad Gita

1. Leadership and Management

2. Workplace Ethics and Integrity

3. Conflict Resolution and Stress Management

4. Personal Development and Professional Growth

5. Teamwork and Collaboration

6. Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

7. Innovation and Problem-Solving

Conclusion

Research and development of Bhagavad Gita ?

Research and Development of the Bhagavad Gita

1. Textual and Philosophical Research

2. Theological Research

3. Psychological Research

4. Sociological and Cultural Research

5. Application in Modern Leadership and Management