The Poets of the Powers: Magic, Freedom, and Renewal

by Kamil V. Zvelebil

This reprint of the classic work first published in 1973 is largely based upon interviews with Yogi Ramaiah, a direct disciple of Babaji. It was the first academic study of the culture of the 18 Siddhas of South India and presents many fascinating details which will be of great interest to the student of Babaji's Kriya Yoga. The Siddhas or "Accomplished Ones" were masters of yoga, spiritual heroes, miracle workers and ministrels in ancient times. Their poetry refflects their deep spiritual yearning, insight and experience. It also reveals that they were outspoken critics of conventional religion and morality.

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1993

Reviews

[Vasu · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book tremendously - especially the first few chapters where one is given a brief history of Siddhas and their poetry.
I'd have preferred it if the poems chosen by the author had been printed in Tamil as well as their English translation.The translations, although very good, do not (as with most translations) convey the complete meanings/ethos that the poets seek to portray.

[Ivan Granger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an idiosyncratic collection, but one I've really come to like. A collection of the poetry of the great Siddha poets of South India. Some of the poems will seem odd or arcane, while others are truly magical, regardless of your spiritual background. Perhaps not a collection for everyone, but if you love the writings and poetry of yoga, you'll find much to appreciate here.