Many of us are in a relentless search for happiness. Despite living in a time of unparalleled material comfort, technological advancement, and prosperity, happiness often feels just out of reach. Questions like “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” linger, pushing people to seek deeper meaning in their lives. The Aham Brahmasmi Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation linked to the Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetham in Karnataka, India, seeks to address these profound questions through the teachings of Advaita Vedanta.
The foundation recently conducted a two-day retreat in Melbourne, held at the Sri Swaminarayan Temple in Boronia. Titled Vedanta Shravana, the event brought together over 100 participants eager to engage with the ancient wisdom of Vedanta. The retreat was part of a global series, with similar events planned in Sydney, Singapore, and across the United States, including Houston, Detroit, and Tampa.
The Melbourne programme offered a deep dive into foundational concepts of Vedanta. Sessions included discussions on Advaita in the Bhagavatham, practical applications of Vedanta, and the teachings of Sadhana Panchakam by Sri Adi Shankaracharya. Through his five concise verses, Shankara provides a roadmap for spiritual seekers, offering a pathway to transcend the limitations of the mind and discover inner peace. Participants were captivated as the scholars unravelled these ancient teachings with clarity and insight.
Dr. M.V. Vishwanath and Arjun Bharadwaj, two accomplished scholars, led the sessions. Dr. Vishwanath, a PhD from Banaras Hindu University, specialises in Sanskrit and classical Indian literature, while Bharadwaj, a poet, translator, and robotics expert with a Master’s degree from ETH Zurich, brings a unique blend of traditional and modern perspectives. Their ability to present complex concepts in an accessible way kept the audience engaged throughout the retreat.
Aham Brahmasmi Foundation, which has conducted numerous retreats and online courses in India, is now extending its reach globally. Its mission is to introduce Advaita Vedanta in its purest form to seekers worldwide. The organisation aims to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance, offering spiritual guidance without compromise or dilution.
Sridhar Chityala, a key supporter of the foundation and a recognised leader in global financial services, was also in attendance. With decades of experience in senior executive roles across major institutions like JP Morgan Chase, Citi, and National Australia Bank, Chityala’s involvement underscores the foundation’s commitment to broadening its impact. Beyond his financial acumen, he has been instrumental in fostering initiatives that align with the foundation’s vision of spiritual growth and self-discovery.
The Melbourne retreat was a resounding success, highlighting the growing interest in Vedanta among a diverse audience. As the Aham Brahmasmi Foundation continues its journey, it remains committed to sharing the timeless wisdom of Sanatana Dharma and Advaita Vedanta with the world. Events like these offer a rare opportunity for seekers to reflect, learn, and chart their path towards a more meaningful life.
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