Some people have a way of making you feel at peace the moment they speak. Ramsundar ji is one such soul. Gentle, grounded, and full of quiet strength, he carries the fragrance of his Guru’s wisdom in every word and gesture. There’s a warmth in his presence—something deeply assuring, like the calm of a temple bell or the stillness after prayer.
In this heart-to-heart, I had the privilege of asking Ramsundar ji about his journey in Vedanta, the role of the Guru, and his timeless message to today’s youth. His answers, like always, were rich in clarity, love, and depth.
1. Ramsundar ji, can you take us back to the beginning — how did your journey in Vedanta begin, and what inspired you to walk this path? In your view, how can Vedanta truly serve and uplift today’s youth?
My father always pursued higher knowledge. He would read books by different authors and attend various lectures. Eventually, I saw him focusing more on Swami Parthasarathy’s books and discourses. I was intrigued. And when I picked up one of Swamiji’s books, I was hooked. It stood out. Nobody presented the knowledge in such a relatable and contemporary way.
While all other knowledges deal with the world, Vedanta deals with the individual. This benefits the youth, who may seem lost and confused about themselves and the role and purpose of life. In fact, contrary to popular belief, Vedanta is not meant for post-retirement but for youngsters entering the arena of life. The knowledge equips them to lead a productive, dynamic life and maintain proper relationships in the world.
2. In the pursuit of knowledge and self-growth, people often turn to books, podcasts, and motivational speakers. But Vedanta emphasizes the need for a Guru. Why do you think choosing a Guru is essential for a seeker?
In Vedanta, we are trying to understand our thoughts, desires, and actions. But even more than that, we’re trying to unravel the meaning and purpose of life. Are we born just to die? Who is God? Who am I? These are far subtler aspects of existence.
The Guru shows the way because He has reached the ultimate goal of life. Initially, one requires a Guru. Eventually, the responsibility of achieving the highest rests with the individual. The Guru may take the form of a scripture, a book, or a person. In fact, the very objective of a Guru is to make the student self-sufficient—so that even when the Guru is not physically present, the disciple has the fortitude and conviction to continue on the path.
3. What does the word ‘Guru’ truly mean to you, especially in the context of Vedanta? How does the presence of a Guru shift one’s understanding of life?
The word “Guru” means the dispeller of darkness. The Guru removes our ignorance. Mathew Arnold once said, “Life is an arrow shot from darkness, flutters in the light for some time, and goes back into darkness.” This reflects our reality—we don’t know where we’ve come from, why we are here, or when we are going. We simply take life for granted.
The Guru dispels this ignorance. Every person oscillates between sorrow and happiness. No one wants sorrow. We are all in constant pursuit of happiness. The Guru elevates our thinking by educating us that the world can never truly provide the happiness we seek. While we may experience moments of joy, they are fleeting. The real, lasting happiness lies in the pursuit of Truth, of God.
4. Could you share a personal experience or turning point where your Guru's guidance brought clarity or transformation in your life? What qualities should one look for in a true Guru?
It is difficult to pinpoint just one experience. Every interaction with my Guru strengthened and deepened both my knowledge and devotion. I always sought Swamiji’s guidance in my life. The Guru only looks into the welfare of the disciple.
The Mundaka Upanishad says a true Guru should be Å›rotriya—one who has the capacity to expound the Truth—and brahmaniá¹£á¹ha—firmly established in the Truth. Beyond qualifications, the best way to know you have found your Guru is that your doubts are dispelled to your satisfaction, and your devotion towards the Ultimate is ignited.
5. With Guru Purnima just around the corner, what message would you like to offer young seekers who are looking for guidance and peace? How can they prepare themselves to recognize and receive the Guru’s wisdom?
If youngsters are genuinely seeking to understand their life and purpose in the world, then the right Guru, scripture, or even a podcast will find them—at the right time.
Happy Guru Purnima to the galaxy of sages and saints who have imparted this knowledge for the benefit of mankind. May today’s youth discover the light of wisdom, and may they be guided to the Truth by the grace of a Guru.
As I wrapped up this conversation, I felt a deep sense of stillness—like a lamp had been lit in the quiet corners of my heart. Ramsundar ji reminds us that wisdom doesn’t always come in thunderous revelations. Sometimes, it comes in calm, steady whispers… in the presence of someone who has walked the path with sincerity and surrender.
On this Guru Purnima, may we all be blessed with such guidance—a light that dispels our darkness, a voice that points us back home.