Hello! Today’s edition of Lit Visions is a podcast with Gregory David Roberts, author of the internationally best-selling novel, Shantaram.

The conversation happened in 2021 and was first published on a different podcast. But given the timelessness of its themes and overlap with Lit Visions, I am delighted to resurrect it here.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

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Today’s episode is with Gregory David Roberts (GDR), author of Shantaram, a breathtaking novel set in 1980s Bombay that’s sold over six million copies and hailed as a 'masterpiece'.

His latest book is The Spiritual Path which describes the step-by-step process he followed in search of spiritual connection. In his own words:

“The Spiritual Path is a book on spiritual matters that my younger self wanted desperately: one that offers more answers than questions, and helps to reset the spiritual compass.”

GDR also produces music from a studio in Jamaica. He has lived an insanely adventurous life: from being on the run as Australia's most wanted man to forging passports for the Bombay mafia to going off the grid for 6 years, in pursuit of a spiritual master.

In the 71 minutes of conversation, GDR shares wisdom, perspectives and stories that are sure to resonate with listeners. He's a master of his craft and an embodiment of inspiration. It’s an episode that I will never forget.

Where you can find us:

GDR on Instagram: instagram.com/gdr_shantaramGDR on Twitter: twitter.com/GDR_ShantaramDhru on Instagram: instagram.com/dkarwaDhru on Twitter: twitter.com/dhrupadkarwa

Mentioned in the episode:

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts

The Mountain Shadow by Gregory David Roberts

The Spiritual Path by Gregory David Roberts

GDR on Spotify

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Show notes:

0:00 - Introduction1:07 - On never giving up4:32 - Finding inspiration in prison12:54 - Writing 'The Spiritual Path'20:03 - Spirituality and Creation27:34 - His relationship with ambition42:32 - The power of music46:50 - How GDR self-identifies50:31 - India and Jamaica55:40 - AI Idea Jam x Spirituality1:01:12 - When GDR inspired others1:04:27 - Future of AI

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