WHO ARE WE ?

Vedanta literally means “culmination of knowledge”. Veda means knowledge and Anta means end. A philosophy which enunciates the eternal principles of life and living. Living is an art, a skill, a technique. We need to learn and practise the technique of living as we would for playing a musical instrument or flying an aircraft.

Vedanta teaches us the technique of living that enables us to live a dynamic life of action while enjoying perfect peace and happiness within. Vedanta also provides the fundamental principles required to build sound and healthy relationships.

The trend around the world is to turn to Vedanta philosophy after retirement. This is a mistake. While Vedanta is beneficial to people of all ages, it is most beneficial at the start of life. It helps you decide your life’s goal, how to have a fulfilling career, and how to ensure you have healthy and warm relationships. Why wait till the latter part of your life to learn these principles?

There is a general misconception that Vedanta philosophy requires you to resign and retire from life. To lead the life of an ascetic. This is not true. Vedanta does not expect anyone to live a life of resignation. It is not a retirement plan but a technique of dynamic living.

Vedanta provides us with the principles to stay productive and happy in the constantly changing business environment. It provides us the three ingredients of success - concentration, consistency and cooperation through the development of the intellect.

The faculty wear the uniform designed by the Vedanta Academy in India for its residential course students. The uniform is designed to be comfortable and conservative and follows the principle of 'simple living, higher thinking'. This uniform includes the dress, mala and botu on the forehead. A uniform serves to reduce distractions in the classrooms and distinctions between students: We are all gathered for the same purpose and are equals in that. The mala and botu (dot) serve as reminders to others, who see us, of the purpose and goal of the spiritual endeavour, to develop to a state of Perfection. 

Vedanta helps us understand the fundamental human disciplines that help build sound and healthy relationships. It also helps us expand our circle of identification beyond our immediate family so we can live in harmony with all.

Vedanta is a practical philosophy that is to be practised not by going to church or temple or mosque, but in our everyday life – at school, at work and at home. Vedanta does discuss the meaning of God and the significance of God in our lives in a logical manner that is free of superstition and blind faith. It encourages the questioning of all beliefs and advises us to not take anything at face value. The principles of Vedanta were developed in ancient India, but do not belong to any one country, race, or religion. The principles are eternal and stand on their own merit.

To familiarise yourself with the basic principles of this philosophy you could watch the 14 Session-course by Sudhakar covering topics from. A. Parthasarathy's masterpiece, Vedanta Treatise: The Eternities.

To take your study further there are 

1. Retreats at the Vedanta Academy

2. Publications by A. Parthasarathy

3. E-learning Courses based on the recorded classes by A. Parthasarathy in the Vedanta Academy.