Synopsis
The volume is a comprehensive work on bhakti yoga or bhakti marga, seen as the direct path to perfection, the principal means to the progressive perfection of the soul. The book begins with a detailed study of the origin of bhakti in the Vedas and its understanding in the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, the Upanishads and the Puranas, and other works. It attempts to approach bhakti as a representation of God in the created world and devotion without religious convictions. It throws light on man's need to develop such devotion through absolute self-surrender to God. The bhakti concept in Vedanta is explored in-depth by referring to Vedanta schools of Adi Shankara, Bhaskara Bhatta, Ramanuja, Caitanya Mahaprabhu, the Alvar Saints of south India and the concept of devotion of Andal. Quoting from the thoughts of diverse bhakti saints of India, it explores the bhakti devotion in Shaivism referring to Shiva as the Supreme God and the concept of Shakti, aspects relating to moral responsibilities, bondage and liberation, and the doctrine of Shatstha. The emphasis is on Ramanuja s teachings on bhakti: his understanding of the Absolute, jnana and consciousness, jiva and atma, time and spiritual consciousness. There is a chapter that provides a practical approach to bhakti thought, for instance, ways of developing consciousness of it and non-meditative forms of bhakti.
About the Author
Mr. T.K. Sribhashyam obtained his Master's degree in accountancy as well as in Hindu philosophy. He also received intensive lessons on yoga philosophy, and Indian psychology. Ayurveda, the Indian medical science, was another subject of study under his father, Sri T. Krishnamacharya. Since 1971, he has been transmitting his father's teachings in Europe, in French as well as in English. In 1999, the Mysore Sanskrit College conferred on him the title of Acharya for his faithful and devoted teachings of Hindu philosophy. He is the Head of all Yogakshemam schools in Europe. His book Emergence du Yoga (in French) has been recently published from France and its English translation is under preparation. Two of his books in English viz. Blissful Experience-Bhakti -- Quintessence of Indian Philosophy and From Devotion to Total Surrender-Shanagati Yoga -- In the Light of Indian Philosophy are appearing from India in 2012. He has published many articles in different yoga journals in Europe. He is an honorary life member of the International Yoga Federation and the World Yoga Council.
Mrs. Alamelu Sheshadri, second daughter of Sri T. Krishnamacharya, is graduated from Mysore University. Sri T. Krishnamacharya initiated her to Yajurveda, tought her all major Upanishads, Brahmasutras and the Bhagavad-Gita in the traditional way. He also trained her in yoga, both practically and philosophically. From 1985 until 1989 she continued studying many philosophical subjects, especially Vishishtadvaita.
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