Yoga Shastra Sangamam: A Journey into Swami Vivekananda’s Vision of Yoga
Yoga Shastra Sangamam: A Journey into Swami Vivekananda’s Vision of Yoga
Some journeys begin where a conference ends.
I recently had the privilege of attending Yoga Shastra Sangamam, organized by Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, in Bengaluru. I was honored to serve as a moderator during the paper presentation sessions. Moderating a wide range of scholarly presentations on yoga through the lens of Swami Vivekananda’s vision was a deeply insightful experience. The papers explored not only the philosophical foundations of yoga but also its relevance to Indian culture, humanity, education, and holistic living. Engaging with passionate scholars and researchers made every session an opportunity for learning and reflection.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the conference was revisiting the timeless teachings of Swami Vivekananda, who presented yoga as a complete science of human transformation. He reminded us that the goal of yoga is to manifest the divinity already present within every individual.
Swami Vivekananda explained four complementary paths of yoga:
Raja Yoga- the mastery of the mind through meditation;
Karma Yoga- selfless action without attachment to results;
Jnana Yoga- the pursuit of truth through discrimination and self-inquiry; and
Bhakti Yoga- the path of love, devotion, and surrender.
Together, these paths harmonize the mind, intellect, heart, and actions, making yoga a way of life rather than merely a practice.
The conference strengthened my conviction that yoga is not only to be practised on the mat but also to be studied, contemplated, and lived. Listening to diverse research perspectives inspired by Swami Vivekananda reaffirmed that yoga has the power to shape individuals, preserve cultural wisdom, and contribute to the welfare of humanity. I returned with renewed inspiration to explore the scriptures, deepen my understanding, and continue this lifelong journey of learning.
“Each soul is potentially divine. The goal is to manifest this Divinity within.”
– Swami Vivekananda
