Mahesh Prabhu's Blog, page 17

Artha & Arthashastra

In a world that often misinterprets the ancient wisdom of the Vedas as a renouncement of worldly wealth, it's time to bust some myths wide open. Far from advocating a life devoid of material comfort, Vedic knowledge systems provide profound insights into the intricate balance of 'Artha'—a Vedic Sanskrit term that embodies both 'meaning' and 'wealth.'

Conditioning, Manipulation, and the Quest for Rationale

In the intricacies of human life, we often find ourselves grappling with profound questions about behaviour, belief, and mental faculties. Our lives are subject to various forms of conditioning and manipulation that often stem from larger systems like culture, religion, and science. These frameworks aim to provide us with answers, but they often lead to more questions, particularly when we encounter dilemmas that these systems can't completely resolve.

Navigating Complex Realities in a Binary World With Kootaneeti

In an era where we're plagued by an excess of information but a deficit of wisdom, where problems seem to compound as solutions falter, the ancient concept of Kootaneeti may offer a path forward. Rooted in the Vedic Sanskrit tradition, Kootaneeti is a term that combines 'Koota' (Discreet) and 'Neeti' (Approach) to offer a nuanced framework for understanding and interacting with the world. It challenges our binary tendencies to categorize everything as good or bad, black or white, friend or foe. ...

The Aging Population: A Valuable Resource, Not a Burden

Amidst a world that idolizes youth and progress, the intrinsic value of age often fades into the background. This disparity becomes evident as Western societies grapple with an ageing population, while echoes of respect for elders resonate from cultural legacies like Vedic India. In India's heartlands, the elderly have always been revered as founts of wisdom, their counsel woven into the fabric of the community. In contrast, the modern era's isolation of the elderly reflects a crisis. Yet, the p...

Unlocking Artha: A Key to Meaningful Wealth and Financial Freedom

In today's fast-paced world, the pursuit of wealth often takes centre stage. However, the true essence of wealth goes beyond mere monetary gains; it encapsulates the profound concept of Artha – a Vedic treasure trove of knowledge that delves into meaningful wealth creation and a holistic understanding of value.

Love, Hate, and the Path Within

In the intricate mosaic of human experience, emotions wield a remarkable influence, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships. Vashistha's timeless teaching, "You may or may not become the person you love, but you will become the person you hate," encapsulates the profound impact of emotions on our journey through life. This sentiment resonates across ancient wisdom traditions, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, underscoring the delicate equilibrium required to navigate emotions and ...

Importance of Understanding True Inspiration

In a world brimming with captivating stories and awe-inspiring achievements, the line between entertainment and true inspiration often blurs. As we witness a surge in the number of individuals hailed as inspirational figures, it becomes imperative to discern between the superficial allure of entertainment and the profound impact of genuine inspiration. Are we truly absorbing the essence of their journeys, or are we merely indulging in a fleeting fascination?

Book Review: “You Are What You Digest” by Dr. Christine Tara Peterson

In an era where wellness literature often struggles to find the balance between age-old wisdom and scientific validation, Dr. Christine Tara Peterson’s "You Are What You Digest" emerges as a paradigm-shifting tome that not only educates but also enlightens. This is not just another book on gut health; it is a comprehensive guide to understanding oneself, inviting us to redefine our relationship with our bodies, our minds, and the universe that lives within us.

Wisdom, Fear and Belief

Life is a complex tapestry of paradoxes, and the enigma of death stands out as one of the most bewildering. In the Mahabharata's Shanti Parva chapter, Bhishma, the venerated elder, candidly addresses Yudhishthira on the inevitability of death, stating, "Son, Death is inevitable but living disastrously is a choice." What is the essence of Bhishma's assertion that choosing a disastrous life is within our control, and how do fear, religious beliefs, and cult ideologies contribute to our collective ...

How Inferiority and Superiority Complex Impact Our Lives and Societies

In an age defined by rapid technological advances and stark economic contrasts, our emotional and psychological states are often neglected. We are so focused on "progress," that we forget the underlying human factors that influence our well-being and the harmony of society. According to ancient Vedic philosophy, two such factors are feelings of inferiority and superiority, which are considered detrimental as they indicate an unbalanced mind.