Dharma Explorers: An Enlightening Conversation with Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati

Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati (Parmarth Niketan Rishikesh), in an inspiring exchange with hosts Jai Bansal (VP of Education at VHPA) and Amitabh Mittal (VHPA General Secretary), dives into her transformative journey from the luxurious life of Hollywood to the spiritual solace of the Himalayas, her profound experiences on the banks of the Ganga, and how these have reshaped her understanding of happiness, fulfillment, and divine connection. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that bridges worlds and awakens souls.

“When I stood on the banks of the Ganga, it was like a veil was lifted from every aspect of me — how I saw, understood, and thought. For the first time, I was seeing the divine in everything, including myself.”

Brief Summary

Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati, a spiritual leader from Rishikesh, shared her remarkable journey from Hollywood to the Himalayas, emphasizing the divine call that drew her away from a life of material abundance to one of deep spiritual fulfillment. Her narrative highlighted the serendipitous yet destined path that led her to embrace Sanatana Dharma, despite not being born into a Hindu household. Her experiences by the river Ganga in Rishikesh opened her eyes to the divine presence within and around, marking the beginning of her new life.

The conversation delved into the role of the Divine Ganga in her spiritual awakening, illustrating how the river symbolizes purity and acts as a catalyst for profound inner transformation. Sadhvi Bhagwati’s encounter with the Ganga was a pivotal moment, leading her to recognize her divine nature and the universal divinity that connects all beings.

Furthermore, the discussion touched upon the concept of dharma and how it transcends religious labels, guiding individuals toward universal truths and ethical living. Sadhvi Bhagwati’s insights into her transition from a life anchored in Western achievements to one immersed in Eastern spirituality shed light on the universal quest for peace, happiness, and fulfillment.

The themes of divine love, the importance of spiritual community, and the transformative power of selfless service were also explored. Sadhvi Bhagwati emphasized the significance of seva (selfless service) as a means to purify the soul and connect with the divine essence that pervades all existence. Her work in humanitarian projects, environmental conservation, and interfaith dialogue exemplifies her commitment to serving humanity and the planet.

Moreover, the dialogue addressed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the adoption of Hindu practices by those not born into the faith. Sadhvi Bhagwati’s story is a testament to the universality of Sanatana Dharma and its relevance to people from diverse backgrounds seeking spiritual truth and harmony.

In summary, this conversation illuminated Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati’s journey from a life of material luxury to one of spiritual richness, underscoring the transformative power of the divine, the essence of dharma, and the universal quest for meaning and connection. Through her experiences and teachings, Sadhvi Bhagwati serves as a bridge between Eastern spirituality and Western seekers, offering insights into the profound wisdom and compassion that lie at the heart of Sanatana Dharma.

About Sadhvi ji

Sadhvi Bhagwati ji is a renowned spiritual leader, author, and motivational speaker based in Rishikesh, India.  Originally from Los Angeles and a graduate of Stanford University, Sadhviji has been ordained into the sacred order of Sanyas by her guru, His Holiness Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati ji, and has been living at Parmarth Niketan Ashram for the past twenty-six years. She oversees a variety of humanitarian projects, teaches meditation, lectures, writes, counsels individuals and families, and serves as a unique female voice of spiritual leadership throughout India and the world. A brief list of her projects and areas of responsibility:

• Author of the #1 bestselling memoir Hollywood to the Himalayas: A Journey of Healing and Transformation.  
• Managing Editor for the monumental project of the 11-volume Encyclopedia of Hinduism.
• International Director of Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, one of India’s largest spiritual institutions; the
• Secretary-General of the Global Interfaith WASH Alliance, an international interfaith organization dedicated to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene;
• President of Divine Shakti Foundation, a foundation that runs free schools, vocational training programs, and empowerment programs;
• Director of the International Yoga Festival at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh, which has been covered in Time, CNN, the New York Times, and other prestigious publications and has been addressed by both the Prime Minister and Vice President of India.
• She is also a Co-President of Religions for Peace and serves on the United Nations Advisory Council on Religion and on the steering committees of the International Partnership for Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD) and the Moral Imperative to End Extreme Poverty, a campaign by the United Nations and World Bank.

Sadhvi Ji’s lifelong commitment to volunteer service has been recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award by U.S. President Joe Biden.