Among the many contributions of ancient Indians to world thought, perhaps the most insightful is the realisation that ananda (Bliss) is the ultimate goal of human existence. Since time immemorial, India has been a land steeped in contemplation about the nature of humans and the universe. The great rsis (seers) and rsikas (seeresses) embarked on critical analysis of subjective experience and plumbed the depths of human emotions. The concept of Jivan-mukti-liberation while being alive-as a means of sustaining ananda truly represents the pinnacle of philosophical thought in India.
This little book captures the essence of sata-avadhānī Dr. R Ganesh's hugely popular lecture series, 'Indian Values for a Happy Life,' in which he simplifies profound ideas, making them accessible and actionable in our everyday lives. Through five straightforward sutras (formulae) the readers will traverse the tricky path to lasting Bliss. This English adaptation, undertaken by two gifted comedians/playwrights, is intended to be an easy introduction into the secrets for a happier life.
The ancient Indian way of life can provide practical techniques to lead a Blissful life. This involves grasping basic human values rather than merely retaining factual information. This book tries to provide a lucid mechanism-in the form of sutras-to inculcate these techniques in our daily lives.
Before delving into the sutras, it is imperative to understand a few key concepts.
Our tradition stresses the leading of a values-based life to achieve Bliss (ananda), which is the ultimate goal.
Values
A rough Sanskrit equivalent for 'value' is maulya, a word derived from mula, which means 'root,' 'source,' or 'something established. From this root emerges mulya ('price') as well as maulya ('value'). Price is merely commercial but value can also be spiritual. The word value is derived from the Latin valere to be worth (of)-and is synonymous with 'price,' 'esteem,' and 'worth'. Thus, 'value' refers to a 'commonly accepted worth,' its spiritual connotation emerging from the culture in which it is used.
It will be useful to understand the concept of Value in parallel with that of Fact. Whatever is established in the material world comes under 'fact.' Experiences and realisations of individuals come under 'value.' Facts are objective, values are subjective.
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