On the 33rd night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at
Rosignol Sanatan Mandir, Dev ji, one of the Spiritual Guide of Chinmaya Mission Guyana, concluded Chapter 5, "The Yoga of True Renunciation."
The topic of Karma Yoga continues through the first six chapters of the Bhagavad Gita, and Dev ji offered a profound conclusion that highlighted the essence of Bhagavan Krishna's teachings on how a jiva can attain lasting happiness. A true Yogi, Dev Ji shared, is someone who
can WITHSTAND KAMA (desire) and KRODHA (anger) in this world, while remaining unshaken. He clarified that WITHSTANDING these emotions does not mean SUPRESSING them.
Rather, such a jiva is one who:
• Lives as a Rishi, a wise individual who finds solutions and wisdom in every challenge.
• Is pure at heart through self-discipline (tapas).
• Removes doubts and confusion through Satsang (spiritual gathering).
• Works selflessly for the welfare of others and delights in their happiness.
The conclusion of Chapter five naturally transitions into the theme of meditation, which will be explored in
Chapter 6. Dev ji explained that a person who has renounced worldly desires and practices Karma Yoga is prepared to begin the journey of meditation. The highest aim in life is to sit in quiet contemplation and realize one’s true nature. This inward journey, Dev ji explained, leads to Brahman Nirvana—ultimate liberation and oneness with the Divine.
On the 30th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Shieldstown Sanatan Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji began sharing insights on Chapter 5, "True Renunciation."
Swamiji provided a quick recap, highlighting the significance of turning our daily actions and responsibilities (karma) into Karma Yoga. He urged us to change our ATTITUDE when carrying out actions/duties (karma), adopting a selfless mindset focused on giving back to society, recognizing that we have been richly blessed by the world and must return those blessings. In essence, Bhagavan has given us everything, and while performing karma in this world, we should shift our ATTITUDE to view it as an offering of service to Bhagavan.
Chapter 5 opens with a question from Arjuna, who asks Lord Krishna whether renunciation of action or the performance of action is superior. Lord Krishna responds by considering Arjuna's present situation, advising that performing action is the best path for him. Swamiji reminded us that both paths ultimately lead to the same goal—Mukti—but for Arjuna, the performance of action was the most appropriate approach.
Swamiji concluded Satsang by urging us to carry out our duties with a pure mind and self-control over the senses.
On the 29th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Bel Air Vishnu Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji concluded the teachings on Chapter 4, "Ending Action in Knowledge."
Swamiji wrapped up Chapter 4 by presenting the three fundamental aspects of the jiva personality:
1. Body: This represents the physical part of our existence, which enables us to perform actions. The first six chapters of the Gita emphasizes Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action.
2. Mind: The mind represents the emotional and psychological dimensions of the self. It governs thoughts, emotions, desires, and perceptions. The mind can either be a source of peace and clarity or become restless and agitated. Chapters 7-12 of the Gita focus on Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion, to manage and uplift the mind.
3. Intellect: The intellect represents the higher aspect of human nature, which is responsible for wisdom and discernment. It enables one to make right choices, analyze situations, and distinguish between the real and the unreal, the permanent and the impermanent. The final six chapters of the Gita focus on Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge, which cultivates the intellect.
Swamiji concluded by encouraging us to perform our actions in alignment with Karma Yoga — approaching all endeavors with conscientiousness, sincerity, dedication, and devotion to Bhagavan. In doing so, we can realize the knowledge of our true nature as Sat Cit Ananda (existence, consciousness, bliss).
Hari Om!
On the 28th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Shri Surya Narayan Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to illuminate the teachings of Chapter 4, "Ending Action in Knowledge."
Swamiji highlighted the 12 types of Yagnas, each representing a form of sacrifice. Whether material or spiritual, these sacrifices are intended to elevate consciousness and draw the devotee closer to the Divine.
He emphasized that true sacrifice is not merely an external act but an inner attitude — performing duties and sacrifices without attachment to their results, recognizing them as offerings to the Divine.
These various forms of Yagnas are deeply interconnected, all aimed at purifying the mind and cultivating a stronger bond with the Supreme, and ultimately leading to liberation (moksha).
Hari Om!
On the 27th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Rameshwar Ashram, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to share the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
We invite you to join us this evening at the Shri Surya Narayan Mandir, located at 4607 Westminster Plantation, Parfaith Harmony, W.B.D.
Hari Om!
On the 26th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Ganga Maa Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to illuminate the teachings of Chapter 4, "Ending Action in Knowledge."
Swamiji provided us with a profound understanding of Kartṛtva Bhāva, guiding us on how to transcend the false sense of doership.
Kartṛtva Bhāva refers to the state of identifying oneself as the "doer" — the belief that "I am the one performing the action." Swamiji emphasizes that it is essential to move beyond this sense of doership, and to do so, the purification of the mind is necessary.
Purification is key to gaining and properly applying sacred knowledge. When actions are motivated by desire (Kama), they become self-centered and selfish. However, once the mind is purified, the individual understands that they are simply an instrument in performing actions, and thus dedicates all actions to Ishvara (God).
Through the acquisition of knowledge and the purification of the mind, one progresses to the next level of spiritual growth. The sense of being the independent doer is rooted in ignorance and must be transcended.
Hari Om!
On the 25th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Shri Satya Sanatan Vedic Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to unfold the teachings of Chapter 4, "Ending Action in Knowledge."
Swamiji reminded us that liberation (Mukti) is the ultimate goal of life, but two enemies persist in keeping us trapped in the cycle of birth and death:
1. Raga - attachment (likes)
2. Dvesha - aversion (dislikes)
Hari Om!
On the 24th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Alexander Village Vishnu Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to unfold the teachings of Chapter 4, Ending Action in Knowledge.
Swamiji elaborated on the Fundamentals of Sanatana Dharma:
1. Knowledge is co-existent with the Universe – Knowledge is eternal and has always existed.
2. Sampradaya Parampara – Knowledge is transmitted from Guru to disciple, from the learned to the unlearned.
3. Anaadi (eternal) – The Jiva (individual soul), Jagat (world), and Jagadeshwara (Lord of the Universe) have always existed, embodying the concept of beginningless existence.
4. Avatar – Bhagavan manifests repeatedly to protect the righteous (sadhus) and to destroy the wicked (rakshasas), thus upholding Dharma.
Hari Om!
On the 23rd night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Mortice Hindu Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to reveal the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita.
A lively group of devotees were present, concluding the evening with an energetic and vibrant rendition of chowtal.
🕉 Join us tonight at Alexander Village Vishnu Mandir, 114 Third and Cross Street, Georgetown 🕉.
Hari Om!
On the 22nd night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Soesdyke Vishnu Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued his enlightening discourse on Chapter 3, Karma Yoga.
With his characteristic eloquence, Swamiji highlighted the key elements for transforming ordinary action (karma) into Karma Yoga:
1. Karma Phala Tyag – The attitude of detachment from the results of actions. Perform your duties diligently, without attachment to the outcomes.
2. Ishwara Arpana Buddhi – The mindset of offering all actions to Ishvara. Everything is done as an offering to Bhagavan.
3. Prasada Buddhi – The attitude of graciously accepting whatever comes, recognizing that all is Bhagavan’s gift (the mindset of prasad).
Each of these elements calls for sacrifice, making sacrifice an essential aspect of transforming Karma into Karma Yoga.
🕉 Join us tonight at Mortice Hindu Mandir, Mortice Mahaicony Branch Road 🕉.
Hari Om!
On the 19th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Good Hope Shiva Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to reveal the teachings of Chapter 3, Karma Yoga.
Karma Bandha refers to actions that bind us. The term 'bandha' signifies bondage.
How can we be freed from karma bandha? Karma must be performed with the RIGHT ATTITUDE in the Yajna Spirit, fostering a mindset of service. Just as the universe sacrifices for our survival, we too should cultivate an attitude of service in our daily tasks, dedicating ourselves to giving back to society.
Hari Om!
On the 18th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Montrose Bhakti Bhavan Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to reveal the profound teachings of Chapter 3, Karma Yoga, highlighting how karma binds us, while karma yoga frees us from the cycle of birth and death.
From birth to death, we are bound to perform actions. The key to transforming karma into Karma Yoga is to engage in RIGHT action—selfless, God-dedicated deeds done with devotion and surrender.
🌺 Join us tonight at Good Hope Shiv Mandir for another inspiring evening as Swamiji continues to share the wisdom of Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 3 🌺
Hari Om!
On the 17th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Lusignan Radha Krishna Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji concluded Chapter 2, emphasizing that Bhagavan has embedded the essence of the entire Gita in this chapter, with the detailed teachings to be revealed in the chapters that follow.
Chapter 3, Karma Yoga begins with a question from Arjuna enquiring whether to fight or meditate and follow the path of renunciation.
Bhagavan addresses Arjuna's question and explains that one cannot reach a state of actionlessness without having gone through the entire cycle of action. In other words, we must fulfill our duties and give back to society; we must go through the Karma cycle.
🕉 Word of the Day 🕉
Stitha Prajna - means enlightened being. One who is free from selfish desires and remains the same/unaffected in the face of distractions or objects in the outer world.
Hari Om!
On the 16th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Broken Waterland Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to impart the teachings of Chapter 2, The Yoga of Knowledge, in his unique and engaging style. Through a delightful mix of bhajans, light-hearted humor, and relatable real-life examples, Swamiji captivated the audience, bringing the practical applications of the Bhagavad Gita to life. Accompanied by a lively music ensemble, the evening became one of deep inspiration and profound wisdom.
🕉 Gita Wisdom 🕉
Selfish desires (kama) inevitably lead to ruin:
1. Unfulfilled desires result in anger (krodha) and jealousy (matsarya).
2. Fulfilled desires lead to greed (lobha).
The cultivation of selfless desires through a spirit of service is best.
🌺 If you want to catch up on Night 14 which couldn't be livestreamed, it's now on our YouTube channel! 🌺
Hari Om!
On the 15th Night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Shri Ram Ayodhya Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji inspired a deep sense of pride in the young children present by chanting "Hum Hindi Hain." The powerful echoes of their voices filled the temple with positive energy.
Hari Om!
On the 14th Night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Enmore Hope West Gandhi Memorial Ashram, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to unfold the teachings of Chapter 2, The Yoga Of Knowledge.
Hari Om!
On the 13th day of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Enmore Shiv Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continued to unfold the teachings of Chapter 2, The Yoga Of Knowledge.
A significant crowd gathered this morning as Swamiji spoke about the GOAL of human life.
🕉 What is the GOAL of human life? 🕉
The ultimate goal of human life is Mukti – freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Hari Om!
On the 12th night of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Enterprise Vishnu Mandir, Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji continues to share insights on Karma Yoga.
🕉 What is KARMA YOGA? 🕉
Karma Yoga is the spiritual path of performing one's duties with selflessness, detachment, and awareness, where every action is dedicated and offered as service to the divine. In this way, karma (action) evolves into Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action).
🌺 Join us at Enmore Shiv Mandir tomorrow morning at 9:00 am 🌺
Hari Om!
On Night 11 of the 108 Gita Maha Jnana Yagna at Rama Krishna Dharmic Mandir, Swami Prakashanandaji continues to impart the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita in an inspiring and uplifting manner.
🌺 FUN FACT 🌺
The executive members of Rama Krishna Dharmic Mandir shared that when Pujya Swami Chinmayananda Ji visited Guyana in the 1960s, he conducted a week-long series of spiritual discourses (Jnana Yajna), and his profound impact on the community is still fondly remembered.
Hari Om!
Pictures from Night 8 - Texila American University & Vishva Hindu Parishad hosted satsang!
Medical students, staff, and members of the East Coast community attended and enjoyed! Swamiji explained so everyone could grasp the deep metaphysics and sublime solutions for life's sorrows given in the beginning of Chapter 2 of Bhagavad Gita.
Night 7 - January 20th at Sevak Satsangh Mandir , Non Pariel
A beautiful and uplifting experience last night!!
🌺 JOIN US TONIGHT AT: Texila American University(TAU), Lot 24-42 Plantation, Providence, East Bank Demerara 🌺
Inaugural Program and Introduction to Bhagavad Gita with Pujya Swami Prakashanandaji
Hari Om!
🕉 Photos from Night 1 - Inauguration of the 108 Nights of Bhagavad Gita Maha Jnana Yagna across Guyana! 🕉
💖 The event was graced by:
1. His Excellency, Dr. Amit Telang, High Commissioner of India to Guyana
2. Honorable Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services & Social Security of Guyana, and President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha
🌺 The evening was filled with uplifting energy as the Maha Jnana Yagna commenced. Supporters from various regions of Guyana gathered for the opening ceremony. This significant yagna aims to spread the teachings of Bhagavan Shri Krishna throughout the country.
