Yogananda Podcast

This episode covers the next part of chapter 29 from: 
“About two years after founding the Ranchi school...” 
to  
“...Dwijendra, was a deep-seeing philosopher, beloved even by birds and woodland creatures”. 

Summary: 

As Paramahansa Yogananda and Rabindranath Tagore share some divine fellowship and compare teaching techniques, guruji takes a moment to appreciate the flesh and blood form of the divine artist of India. We also take a deeper look into the family history of this most significant lineage.  

0:00 Previous episode; 
2:45 Tagore the man; 
9:31 Golden silence; 
29:51 Ideal settings 
40:19 The Tagore legends; 
53:01 Emerson footnote  

Links discussed in the chapter:  
https://yogananda.org/blog/paramahansa-yogananda-on-using-the-power-of-initiative-to-achieve-your-goals 
https://yogananda.org/teachings-library/the-power-of-silence-creating-quiet-time-in-our-lives-2023-srf-world-convocation 
https://yssofindia.org/teachings-library/change-your-life-with-the-practice-of-silence-by-swami-jayananda-giri 
https://yogananda.org/summer-program-for-children-and-teens 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 29 from: 
“Rabindranath invited me to stay overnight in the guest house...” 
to the end of the chapter. 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the start of chapter 29 to: 
“...Tagore’s version of an old Bengali song, “Light the Lamp of Thy Love.” 

Summary: 

As Paramahansa Yogananda speaks so fondly of Rabindranath Tagore's achievements and influence both in and beyond India, we explore Tagore's educational legacy through Shantiniketan and Viswa Bharati University, discussing his approach to teaching and integration of music, literature, and self-realization. We also reflect on Tagore's treatments of critics, his cultural impact, and snippets of his wonderful Nobel prize acceptance speech. 

8:40 Singing as natural expression; 
20:50 Tagore's critics; 
32:58 Unhypnotized by flattery; 
35:50 Light the lamp of thy love; 
42:00 Looking Ahead. 

Links discussed in the chapter:  
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visva-Bharati_University 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jana_Gana_Mana 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xwWRPXfJk0 
crpf.gov.in/writereaddata/images/pdf/Gitanjali.pdf 
https://ia601502.us.archive.org/0/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.52214/2015.52214.Rabindra-Nath-Tagore-Letters-To-A-Friend_text.pdf 
https://poets.org/poem/gitanjali-27 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQUEZjVkKTw 
 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 29 from: 
“About two years after founding the Ranchi school...” 
to  
“...Dwijendra, was a deep-seeing philosopher, beloved even by birds and woodland creatures”. 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS

This episode covers the last part of chapter 28 from: 
“I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” 
to the end of the chapter 

Summary: 

Paramahansa Yogananda’s search for the reincarnated Kashi in Kolkata comes to a beautiful crescendo and an emotional encounter with Kashi's new family to be. We examined Guruji's abilities to detect electrical impulses and translate them into profound intuitive understanding of the direction he should traverse, while also discussing the concept of memory and reincarnation from both eastern and biblical perspectives. The discussion concluded with an analysis of Guruji's interventions in physical spaces and his mystical experiences, including the significance of wearing ochre robes in the Swami order and the importance of genuine spiritual advancement. 

1:22 Prior Episode; 
2:50 Finding Kashi; 
14:26 Homing in; 
26:22 Fulfilling the eternal promise; 
39:55 Footnote; 
49:44 Reflections on the chapter. 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the start of chapter 29 to: 
“...Tagore’s version of an old Bengali song, “Light the Lamp of Thy Love.” 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the next part of chapter 28 from: 
“I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” 
to 
“...I practised the yoga method steadily for about six months after Kashi’s death”. 

Summary: 

Paramahansa Yogananda’s emotional confrontation with Kashi's family after learning of Kashi's death was a little shocking to us gentle readers, but discuss the ramifications of the same. The themes of souls, astral realms, and reincarnation is quite important for this section of the book and we find readings from Guruji’s writings that further explore these topics. The techniques for locating a soul in the astral regions is cloaked in mystery but there are subtle clues as to how we can ourselves achieve the same goal, recognising the dangers and improper approaches to mediumship and communicating with the deceased.  

1:14 Prior Episode; 
2:20 Emotions are high; 
8:51 Souls in the astral realm; 
22:31 Secret Yogic Technique; 
30:06 Microphone, Will powered; 
38:55 Looking Ahead. 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 28 from: 
“I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” 
to the end of the chapter 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the start of chapter 28 to: 
“...unfavourable publicity to the school. He saw no choice but to go.” 

Summary: 

We introduce this chapter and set our expectations focusing on themes of reincarnation and the spiritual journey of Kashi, who received Guruji's unconditional support despite not being his formal disciple. We discuss various stories and teachings from Paramahansa Yogananda’s writings, including his views on education, fate versus free will, and the meaning of spiritual responsibilities. The conversation ended with discussions about Guruji's promises and the role of spiritual vibrations in sacred spaces. 

0:00 Expectations from the chapter; 
6:45 The Pond; 
15:50 Predicting fates; 
24:07 Guruji’s promise; 
38:05 Looking Ahead 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 28 from: 
“I returned to Ranchi a few days later...” 
to 
“...I practised the yoga method steadily for about six months after Kashi’s death”. 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the last part of chapter 27 from: 
“The body of Pranabananda, which had appeared so well and strong during...” 
to the end of the chapter. 

Summary: 

Swami Yogananda's asks Swami Pranabananda some probing questions surrounding his connection with God in the twilight years of his life. Swami Pranabananda’s principal devotee Sanandan informs us about the last days with his guru Pranabananda's and his decision to leave Benares and move to the Himalayas with his disciples. This section of the book explores themes of mahasamadhi, attachment, and spiritual perspectives on life and death through various accounts and teachings, including discussions about Kriya Yoga and the significance of spiritual initiation.  

0:00 Prior Episode;  
2:10 The saint's unfading radiance; 
7:25 Departure for the Himalayas; 
15:10 The final departure at a festival; 
41:10 The Rebirth; 
46:30 Reflections on the chapter; 

Links discussed in the episode:  
https://www.yoganiketan.net/reader/books/life-sketch-of-swami-pranabananda.html 
 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the start of chapter 28 to: 
“...unfavourable publicity to the school. He saw no choice but to go.” 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the next part of chapter 27 from: 
“With twenty fertile acres at our disposal, the students, teachers, and I...” 
to 
“... So keep up Kriya Yoga ceaselessly, and reach the divine portals quickly.” 

Summary: 

This chapter contains a beautiful image of Ranchi School which shows how it has, since then, transformed into a full-fledged ashram with complete facilities, including a meditation hall, museum and accommodations for both people (and cattle!). We explore parallel scriptural stories about spiritual lessons regarding attachment and letting go, using examples from Guruji's experiences with deer and his educational vision for the school. The discussion concluded with an examination of the school's expansion and its integration of medical services, sports, and academic programs, while highlighting Guruji's enigmatic personality and relationships with spiritual figures, including Swami Pranabananda.  

0:00 Prior Episode;  
2:15 Ranchi Ashram; 
12:25 Dear deer and Jada Bharata; 
30:03 A good death; 
35:33 Expansion of the school; 
41:00 Swami Pranabananda’s visit 
46:20 Encouraging Bhagabati; 
56:10 Looking Ahead 

Links discussed in the episode:  
https://www.ramakrishnavivekananda.info/vivekananda/volume_4/lectures_and_discourses/the_story_of_jada_bharata.htm 
https://www.youtube.com/live/Ad__hThJDiM?si=GIm5MKjWILl_Hxn0&t=1186 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the last part of chapter 27 from: 
“The body of Pranabananda, which had appeared so well and strong during...” 
to the end of the chapter. 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the next part of chapter 27 from: 
“I organised a programme for both grammar- and high-school grades...” 
to 
“...he observed with twinkling eyes, ‘but I can feel for you!’” 

Summary: 

Paramahansa Yogananda's educational vision and the establishment of the Yogoda School is the core theme of this episode, we discuss how he incorporated both secular and divine teachings while emphasizing practical subjects and outdoor learning. We take a deeper dive into traditional Indian education methods (e.g. Sandipani ashram) and Yogananda's teachings at Ranchi, including his system of physical exercises and meditation. The conversation concluded with reflections on Yogananda's teachings on service and sacrifice and his wonderful relationship with his father. 

0:00 Prior Episode;  
2:00 Educational Vision; 
10:10 Yogoda and Life Force: Mind over matter; 
21:00 Success and Responsibility; 
29:10 Wider family; 
39:20 Looking Ahead. 

Links discussed in the episode:  
https://www.sanskritimagazine.com/64-kalas-arts-and-14-vidyas-techniques-of-ancient-india/ 
https://ujjain.nic.in/en/tourist-place/sandipani/ 
https://yogananda.com.au/para/p_will.html 
https://yogananda.com.au/gurus/yoganandaquotes11.html 
https://yogananda.org/blog/paramahansa-yogananda-on-the-shining-light-of-service-to-others 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 27 from: 
“With twenty fertile acres at our disposal, the students, teachers, and I...” 
to 
“... So keep up Kriya Yoga ceaselessly, and reach the divine portals quickly.” 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS

This episode covers the first part of chapter 27 to: 
“...new school, which I called “Yogoda Satsanga Brahmacharya Vidyalaya.” 

Summary: 

This episode focuses on self-inquiry, and the role of rituals in achieving spiritual understanding with respect to Kriya Yoga. We discussed various philosophical perspectives on self-realization and the concept of Shankaracharya’s Advaita Moksha, including references from Paramahansa Yogananda’s translation of the Bhagavad Gita. The conversation concluded with reflections on the scientific and spiritual benefits of Kriya Yoga, emphasizing its unique blend of mathematical precision, spiritual guidance, and scientific reasoning. 

1:15 Expectations from the chapter; 
6:10 Organisational work and seva; 
22:50 Look toward the larger family; 
45:00 What was Guruji’s school like? 
59:45 Four Ashrams footnote; 
1:07:30 Next episode 

Links discussed in the episode:  
https://ysei.edu.in/ 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the next part of chapter 27 from: 
“I organised a programme for both grammar- and high-school grades...” 
to 
“...he observed with twinkling eyes, ‘but I can feel for you!’” 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS 

This episode covers the last part of chapter 26 from: 
‘“Introspection, or “sitting in the silence,” is an unscientific way of trying’ 
to the end of the chapter. 

Summary: 

This episode focuses on self-inquiry, and the role of rituals in achieving spiritual understanding with respect to Kriya Yoga. We discussed various philosophical perspectives on self-realization and the concept of Shankaracharya’s Advaita Moksha, including references from Paramahansa Yogananda’s translation of the Bhagavad Gita. The conversation concluded with reflections on the scientific and spiritual benefits of Kriya Yoga, emphasizing its unique blend of mathematical precision, spiritual guidance, and scientific reasoning. 

0:22 Episode overview; 
1:07 Prior episode; 
2:10 Rajarsi Picture; 
6:47 Who is the maker?; 
17:45 The true Yogi; 
25:10 The real fire-rite; 
38:24 The footnote; 
47:45 Reflecting on the chapter. 

Links discussed in the episode:  
https://youtu.be/3jAEobix7cg?si=poQFV2wAxj-H2R1P 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moksha 
 

Homework for next episode— Read, absorb and make notes on the first part of chapter 27 to: 
“...new school, which I called “Yogoda Satsanga Brahmacharya Vidyalaya.” 

#autobiographyofayogi  #autobiographylinebyline  #paramahansayogananda 
Autobiography of a Yogi awake.minute Self-Realization Fellowship Yogoda Satsanga Society of India 
#SRF #YSS