Book review by Pragya Bhatt
Pragya Bhatt is a yoga teacher, author, scholar and a poet. She routinely writes about yoga, society, philosophy and contemporary perspectives and lessons to be learnt from these
The study of Vedanta is an ongoing and inexhaustible endeavor. Its vast philosophical scope, coupled with the necessity of experiential application, ensures that a sincere seeker continually deepens their understanding. Having studied Vedanta for the past five years, I have come to realize that while it is an intellectual tradition, its true significance lies in the profound transformation it facilitates in an individual’s mind. In Who Am I?, Swami Sarvapriyananda masterfully distills the teachings of the Upanishads—particularly the Mandukya Upanishad—to illuminate the fundamental nature of the self.
A book is not merely defined by its content but also by the intellectual and experiential engagement it fosters. Prior to reading Who Am I?, I had been following Swami Sarvapriyananda’s discourses, particularly his expositions on the Bhagavad Gita. Many contemporary spiritual texts attempt to simplify Vedanta to cater to modern audiences, often at the cost of depth and rigor. Initially, I, too, subscribed to the notion that traditional exegesis was inaccessible. However, through systematic study, I found that the more I immersed myself in Vedantic inquiry, the more intuitive and transformative these teachings became. This process is ongoing, and I deeply appreciate books that retain the classical methodology, employing traditional metaphors—such as the wave and the ocean, gold and ornaments, or wood and furniture—to elucidate Vedantic concepts. Those who engage with Vedanta systematically will find Who Am I? to be both an insightful text and an invaluable tool for reinforcing fundamental ideas.
Swami Sarvapriyananda offers a rigorous and methodical exposition of Vedantic principles, drawing connections between the Upanishadic doctrines and the broader philosophical framework of Advaita Vedanta. His treatment of the three states of consciousness (waking, dream, and deep sleep) is particularly compelling, serving as a foundational entry point into the inquiry of the self. The question we must ask ourselves is, "Who am I apart from the physical world of the impermanent states of waking, dream and sleep state? What is the nature of the permanent state, the turiya, or pure consciousness? Consistent with traditional Vedantic pedagogy, he underscores the necessity of ātma-vichāra (self-inquiry) and the integration of spiritual wisdom into everyday life.
This brings me to a few key observations regarding the study of Vedanta:
Introspection and self-inquiry are paramount.
The true value of Vedantic knowledge lies in its application to daily life.
A systematic and disciplined approach is essential for genuine assimilation.
Who Am I? is an excellent resource for both newcomers seeking an introduction to Vedanta and seasoned students looking to refine their understanding. Swami Sarvapriyananda’s lucid explanations, grounded in scriptural authority and traditional reasoning, make this book a compelling read for any serious student of Vedantic philosophy.
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