This book, first published in 1962, is an analysis of the history of the philosophy of a country that has never distinguished philosophy from religion. Indian philosophy is not merely metaphysical speculation, but has its foundation in immediate perception. This insistence upon immediate perception rather than abstract reasoning is what distinguishes the Indian philosophy of religion from philosophy as Western nations know it.

Composed in 1962 by Swami Prabhavananda, a monk of the Ramakrishna Order, The Spiritual Heritage of India is a comprehensive summary of Indian philosophy and religion. Beginning with the foundational texts of Indian spirituality, the Vedas, Prabhavananda proceeds to a thorough analysis of the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and many of the Puranas. After covering the scriptural side of Indian religion, the book then turns to the six major schools of Indian thought, expanding in particular upon the Yoga and Vedanta schools. The author finishes with a discussion of the great monks and teachers of India, comparing the ideas of figures centuries apart, as well as relating them to the challenges of the modern world. What separates The Spiritual Heritage of India from other similar titles is the author's ability to hone in on the finer aspects of Indian spirituality, while also providing the reader with a thorough overview. The long-time student of Indian thought, as well as one approaching it for the first time, will benefit greatly from the breadth and depth of Prabhavananda's writing.

This book is an English translation of 565 songs of one of the greatest musician-saints, Tyagaraja. The text of the compositions is in Sanskrit. The translator of these songs, C. Ramanujachariar, wanted to take the lyrics embodying the trials and yearnings, the religious fervour and devotional experiences of Tyagaraja beyond southern India. The scheme of classification of the songs are given in two charts. The index of the songs is given in Sanskrit and English. Its preface and introductory thesis (two thirds of the book) is authored by V. Raghavan. S. Radhakrishnan, who was then the vice-president of India, has written the foreword. Ramanujachariar was an administrator, actor, musician and primarily a spiritual seeker. He was well known as the Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Students Home, Chennai. V. Raghavan was a Sanskrit scholar and musicologist. A recipient of the Padma Bhushan, he has authored over 120 books. The book is a treat to English-knowing readers who wish to familiarise themselves with the immortal songs of Tyagaraja which present lofty truths in simple and appealing language. For students of Carnatic Music, it can be a reference book.

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