Everyday Yogi

By H.S. Shivaprakash

About the book

Not every spiritual master receives devotees and disciples in an ashram, nor delivers discourses for the public. Many stay away from the mainstream, focused on their spiritual goals and practice. They do not believe in institutions; their intent is achieving and guiding others towards self-realization. H.S. Shivaprakash, a renowned poet, scholar and playwright, has known many spiritual adepts in the course of his life, and has had the good fortune to be accepted as a disciple by them. Translated from the bestselling Kannada book, Batteesa Raga, Everyday Yogi tells the stories of powerful Christian mystics, Hindu gurus and Sufi pirs – untold stories that are as surprising as they are inspiring. The paths to enlightenment are many, and the author remains open to the wisdom of all the masters he meets. They transform him in profound ways, not just through their spiritual practices but through their lightness of being, their dignity and compassion. They also help him navigate the waters of his own artistic life, often torn by great personal sorrow. Shivaprakash, through this clear-eyed account of his spiritual journey, shares with you the difficulties that can arise on the spiritual path. But he shows you how it is only with the guru – be it the guru within or an external master – that you can achieve self-realization. The journey with a true guru is exacting and challenging, but also immensely rewarding and full of grace. Everyday Yogi offers both common-sense wisdom as well as the hope of transcendence in the turbulent times we live in.