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Aghora #2
Aghora II: Kundalini
This, the second volume in the Aghora series, focuses on Kundalini, the transformative power of the enlightened self. Kundalini, the root from which all spiritual experiences sprout, has remained secret for so long because it cannot be explained, only experienced. This book recounts how Vimalananda introduced me to Kundalini, and took me step by step through the practices used to awaken Her. It examines mantras, yantras, tantric practices, and shows how normally mundane things like music, food, and even the noise of trains rumbling down tracks can be turned to one's spiritual benefit. For Vimalananda Kundalini was not some sort of impersonal serpent energy, but rather took the form of his beloved deity Smashan Tara, the "Saviouress of the Cemetery." He trusted Kundalini implicitly, and She never let him down.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1993
176 people are currently reading
1766 people want to read
About the author
Robert E. Svoboda
41 books310 followersDuring and after my formal Ayurvedic training I was tutored in Ayurveda, Yoga, Jyotisha, Tantra and allied subjects by my mentor, the Aghori Vimalananda. He also owned thoroughbred race horses, and I served as his Authorized Racing Agent at the Royal Western India Turf Club in Bombay and Poona between 1975 and 1985.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 15, 2012
Intense, infact very intense. It teaches one the way of life...not just that, the words are very carefully weaved for the subject.
May 3, 2008
This is one of my all time favorite books. I think I have read it 3 or 4 times. If you are into yoga philosophy and the deep traditions and meaning behind the yoga - this is a fabulous book. I learned so much about yogic history/myth and why I was really doing stuff. The author is superb.
A fun read and brainy.
A fun read and brainy.
January 17, 2013
Brilliant, interesting and extremely insightful!
July 23, 2016
Spiritual books, especially those dealing with a devotee’s personal experiences, are difficult to review, since the author as well as the reader, both are subjective to the extreme, and both go through the process with something to prove.
Nevertheless, as far as my reading experience is concerned, this book, which is the 2nd one in the trilogy composed by the author, turned out to be far better compared to the first book, in terms of readability.
The book deals with a special concept that has been the elephant in the room, as far as discussions on Tantra is concerned. No, I’m not talking about sex. I’m talking about “Kundalini”, a concept that is omnipresent in Indian literature, and yet which is almost impossible to describe & discuss in meaningful terms. All spiritual leaders and good teachers of physical education tell us that the potential to do anything lies within our body. Tantra, and almost every scripture, describes that latent potential and hidden power as Kundalini.
But how to find it?
What are the pitfalls associated with the search for it?
How can one harness it to the best possible extent?
All these questions have not been answered in this book, since it’s not a guide-book or manual. But it turned out to be a more literate & proper exposition of some of these questions, and the description of the journey that one takes when the fantastic voyage towards finding that mysterious power commences.
The book also benefits from the scholarly treatment that it has received, courtesy the illustrations, captions, and appendix by Robert Beer.
At times, all the illustrations and accompanying explanations made me feel dizzy, if not utterly soporific. But, at the end, it seemed that the book was really, REALLY, trying to explain some concepts, and not trying to bore us with someone’s tall tales.
Definitely worthy of a read.
Nevertheless, as far as my reading experience is concerned, this book, which is the 2nd one in the trilogy composed by the author, turned out to be far better compared to the first book, in terms of readability.
The book deals with a special concept that has been the elephant in the room, as far as discussions on Tantra is concerned. No, I’m not talking about sex. I’m talking about “Kundalini”, a concept that is omnipresent in Indian literature, and yet which is almost impossible to describe & discuss in meaningful terms. All spiritual leaders and good teachers of physical education tell us that the potential to do anything lies within our body. Tantra, and almost every scripture, describes that latent potential and hidden power as Kundalini.
But how to find it?
What are the pitfalls associated with the search for it?
How can one harness it to the best possible extent?
All these questions have not been answered in this book, since it’s not a guide-book or manual. But it turned out to be a more literate & proper exposition of some of these questions, and the description of the journey that one takes when the fantastic voyage towards finding that mysterious power commences.
The book also benefits from the scholarly treatment that it has received, courtesy the illustrations, captions, and appendix by Robert Beer.
At times, all the illustrations and accompanying explanations made me feel dizzy, if not utterly soporific. But, at the end, it seemed that the book was really, REALLY, trying to explain some concepts, and not trying to bore us with someone’s tall tales.
Definitely worthy of a read.
February 10, 2014
Having read all the three of the Aghora series books,ie,Aghora 1,Kundalini & Karma, gave me a better picture of the Tantrik practices in general , how kundalini is connected to our perception of the world around us which makes our perspective on the same ,& then about karma which was the first read among the three above presented a lucid understanding of this perplexing Law of Karma(a lot of references from the Indian history).
These books will surely free us from a negative opinion which we all generally have on Aghoras and their Tantrik practices.
One of the cool features of this series is you will never loose your connect with the topic under narration ,even when it describes ghastly images such as animal sacrifices ,drugs ,sex etc.
I really doubt how did Robert remember such conversation with Vimalananda which took place several years ago,which appear as if they happened yesterday.
Having said a little about the intellectual content of the books ,It would be an injustice if the flair in which the book is narrated is not mentioned,which is purely fun reading, you never know and suddenly you find yourself into those last chapters.
Finally for all spiritual people these series will definitely expand your contour on the same.
These books will surely free us from a negative opinion which we all generally have on Aghoras and their Tantrik practices.
One of the cool features of this series is you will never loose your connect with the topic under narration ,even when it describes ghastly images such as animal sacrifices ,drugs ,sex etc.
I really doubt how did Robert remember such conversation with Vimalananda which took place several years ago,which appear as if they happened yesterday.
Having said a little about the intellectual content of the books ,It would be an injustice if the flair in which the book is narrated is not mentioned,which is purely fun reading, you never know and suddenly you find yourself into those last chapters.
Finally for all spiritual people these series will definitely expand your contour on the same.
June 19, 2020
This book is most suitable to serious and advanced spiritual seekers. It gives beautiful exposition of kundalini yoga and how to relate the experiences from the Hindu epics. This book is very lucid and gives introduction to tantric and aghora concepts as well. To understand few of the chapters I suggest people to read the books given in the bibliography it gives a more rounded reading experience.
October 21, 2019
This book is even better than Aghora I. The book is also more explanatory with images and illustrations as compared to Aghora I. I had been reading a lot of spiritual sites who claim that their kundalini had risen. This book clearly dispels the incorrect notion around Kundalini. The proper way of conducting homas is also explained. I truly hated Ramayana and felt that it was suitable for Treta Yuga. However, the author has clarified it with its essoteric meaning. The guru shishya tradition has been explained well and the author advises us to be wary of false gurus. Apart from this, the appendix is very illustrative in case, someone wants to know about the elusive Naths.
August 3, 2018
Bhakti is Shakti
March 30, 2021
The second book in the Aghora series is just as hard-hitting as the first book, 'The Left Hand of God'. This one dives deeper into understanding our spiritual journey, and provides great insights through the conversations of Robert Svoboda and Vimalananda. Like its predecessor, the book successfully dismantles every preconceived notions we have about ourselves and things we believe as "ours". Pick this one if you are ready to have your mindset get dissected and if you wish to learn more on the practices prescribed to help the Kundalini awaken from its slumber.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2025
Aghora II explains various aspects of Sanatan, as asked by Svoboda to Vimalananda.
This book too, while great, and also somehow the most popular, is personally the least underwhelming. While it makes the effort to explain material aspects of Sanatan Dharm, it is not what Vimalananda's life was about.
The book is still engaging, and tells us various insights into rituals, practices, and other aspects of Dharma. However, this is not what Vimalananda's idea of life is.
The book, once again, shines, when Vimalananda explains the differences between satvik, rajsik and tamsik items, and how their effects are different, and why emphasised on satvik lifestyle is given in Bharatiyas (so people can slow down and learn things the proper way instead of generating more tapas than one can handle and then fall off the edge permanently, unable to recover from it), and why sadhanas are kept secret, and so on. These aspects are very insightful and perspectives on them are evolving, but one needs to find a good guru for these to be in reach.
Other aspects discussed are marriage and sex, various stories such as those of Adi Shankaracharya (but from Vimalananda's perspective), sadhanas, karma, mantras, and so on. It is what you'd expect from a book on spirituality; it is the content which makes it more intriguing than others.
There is even a great section on various sampradayas like the Gorakhnath (Yogi Adityanath sect) and its parent sect Mastyendranath, and even has many tantra symbols in it, explained.
Still, this book shines through in the unique way it explains more supposedly "orthodox" things. Although, without the context of the first book, and the conclusion of the third book, this book as an independent entity can be very misleading to read. One should go through all three.
8/10
This book too, while great, and also somehow the most popular, is personally the least underwhelming. While it makes the effort to explain material aspects of Sanatan Dharm, it is not what Vimalananda's life was about.
The book is still engaging, and tells us various insights into rituals, practices, and other aspects of Dharma. However, this is not what Vimalananda's idea of life is.
The book, once again, shines, when Vimalananda explains the differences between satvik, rajsik and tamsik items, and how their effects are different, and why emphasised on satvik lifestyle is given in Bharatiyas (so people can slow down and learn things the proper way instead of generating more tapas than one can handle and then fall off the edge permanently, unable to recover from it), and why sadhanas are kept secret, and so on. These aspects are very insightful and perspectives on them are evolving, but one needs to find a good guru for these to be in reach.
Other aspects discussed are marriage and sex, various stories such as those of Adi Shankaracharya (but from Vimalananda's perspective), sadhanas, karma, mantras, and so on. It is what you'd expect from a book on spirituality; it is the content which makes it more intriguing than others.
There is even a great section on various sampradayas like the Gorakhnath (Yogi Adityanath sect) and its parent sect Mastyendranath, and even has many tantra symbols in it, explained.
Still, this book shines through in the unique way it explains more supposedly "orthodox" things. Although, without the context of the first book, and the conclusion of the third book, this book as an independent entity can be very misleading to read. One should go through all three.
8/10
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May 14, 2020Çok şey kattı
May 20, 2020
The title does no justice to what's contained in this book. One of the best books with answers to a lot of questions.
April 4, 2024
Could have been better. Kinda lost me somewhere in the middle.
January 2, 2023
I'm writing this review in 2023 despite finishing Aghora II in 2022 because I finally got around to it now.
The Aghora series has truly made me realize the reality of a quote I listened to by Master EK a couple of months ago that a guru will reach you when you need him whether it is in person or beyond their mortality. When I first discovered this series back in 2018, I was really scared of it. The cover, the introduction, the density of the text- they all felt like a major barrier and I felt deeply that I could never deep dive into the Aghora series because of this fear. But I realize now it was never fear, I simply was not eligible to receive the information at the time. Because now I can strongly say this is my favorite series. Never has a spiritual book been so engrossing yet so utterly meaningful to my life - it is as though the spiritual practices we have been given as Hindus suddenly make sense and I can see how my relationship with sadhana in everything has shifted towards love rather than fear.
Of course, I'm writing this review months after completing the book yet still, I always come back to the Aghora series as though it is my Bible. Life and its circumstances make sense in the context of the book perfectly. This book mainly deals with Kundalini and the chapters are titled as following: Agni, Kundalini, Preliminaries, Sadhana, Mantra, Tantra, Music, Immortals, The Esoteric Ramayana, and Gurus and Disciples. The book is really good at divulging into more of the physical practices and gives us great tips and anecdotes on how to solidify our practices. In the past, I used to not follow niyama during puja as much and I am partially still guilty of this unfortunately for whatever reason; yet, I used to argue with my parents about intention versus following rules. But, Guru Vimalananda brings light to the vast importance of niyama and why we follow what we follow in order for our ishta daiva to receive our offerings. For those of you who are not Hindu, this book will still shed light into some modern-day "witchcraft" practices as well because modern deity worship has many of its roots in Hindu and other non-Abrahaminc spiritual communities.
I also loved the chapters about music as a student of Carnatic music myself. Those who practice music as a spiritual practice and strive towards nadopasana will know of how difficult it is to achieve even a little progress without sheer concentration on the task at hand. I always share at length that music develops you in such a way that fine tunes your concentration on everything else, because as my Guru used to say "If you don't practice like a demon set on getting perfection, you won't be able to set a true foundation for yourself." I miss classes with her a lot, and I dedicate all that I know to her efforts to mould me into what I am today. I've experienced what having a good Guru feels like and I've also experienced moreover what it feels like to be absorbed in the sadhana of art and to be so moved by an artist's efforts. It's a feeling you always want to come back to. Again, Vimalananda's stories about music and its effects carry you away into his world as an Aghora. The stories about ragas, musicians who were once Gandharvas themselves, the magical tales of how compositions came to be made me feel like a small child reading fables again.
Of course, special mentions also go to the Esoteric Ramayana chapter. I think it is a very poignantly written chapter, although my bias for the Ramayan is ever present through my many reviews of retellings on Goodreads. I can keep going on and on about this series for ages, but I would say this book is best read after Aghora I as it does build on some of the material explained in book one. But mainly, for anyone who wants to understand Hindu puja practices and the influence of tantric practices on everyday Hindu rituals, this is the book for you. Previous to reading this, I never understood Tantra but really, we are all partaking in Tantric practices every time we light a lamp and do darshan at temples.
Special mention which I will mention again in my review of Aghora III is the deep respect that this book gives to great spiritual aspirants of ALL faiths. This book talks in depth about Jesus and Muslim fakirs with as much spiritual reverence as it talks about Aghoras. This is what really seals the spiritual growth this book has to offer everyone; it reminds us that at the end of the day, the means do not justify the end because the means are the end. Wherever our lives and parallely our spiritual sadhanas take us, the end of one phase is always the leeway to the next and similarly, all religious practices will bring you to another.
With all that said, I am deeply grateful to whatever stars have aligned yet again to give me the courage to read this book and be reintroduced to Vimalananda's wisdom through Dr. Svoboda.
The Aghora series has truly made me realize the reality of a quote I listened to by Master EK a couple of months ago that a guru will reach you when you need him whether it is in person or beyond their mortality. When I first discovered this series back in 2018, I was really scared of it. The cover, the introduction, the density of the text- they all felt like a major barrier and I felt deeply that I could never deep dive into the Aghora series because of this fear. But I realize now it was never fear, I simply was not eligible to receive the information at the time. Because now I can strongly say this is my favorite series. Never has a spiritual book been so engrossing yet so utterly meaningful to my life - it is as though the spiritual practices we have been given as Hindus suddenly make sense and I can see how my relationship with sadhana in everything has shifted towards love rather than fear.
Of course, I'm writing this review months after completing the book yet still, I always come back to the Aghora series as though it is my Bible. Life and its circumstances make sense in the context of the book perfectly. This book mainly deals with Kundalini and the chapters are titled as following: Agni, Kundalini, Preliminaries, Sadhana, Mantra, Tantra, Music, Immortals, The Esoteric Ramayana, and Gurus and Disciples. The book is really good at divulging into more of the physical practices and gives us great tips and anecdotes on how to solidify our practices. In the past, I used to not follow niyama during puja as much and I am partially still guilty of this unfortunately for whatever reason; yet, I used to argue with my parents about intention versus following rules. But, Guru Vimalananda brings light to the vast importance of niyama and why we follow what we follow in order for our ishta daiva to receive our offerings. For those of you who are not Hindu, this book will still shed light into some modern-day "witchcraft" practices as well because modern deity worship has many of its roots in Hindu and other non-Abrahaminc spiritual communities.
I also loved the chapters about music as a student of Carnatic music myself. Those who practice music as a spiritual practice and strive towards nadopasana will know of how difficult it is to achieve even a little progress without sheer concentration on the task at hand. I always share at length that music develops you in such a way that fine tunes your concentration on everything else, because as my Guru used to say "If you don't practice like a demon set on getting perfection, you won't be able to set a true foundation for yourself." I miss classes with her a lot, and I dedicate all that I know to her efforts to mould me into what I am today. I've experienced what having a good Guru feels like and I've also experienced moreover what it feels like to be absorbed in the sadhana of art and to be so moved by an artist's efforts. It's a feeling you always want to come back to. Again, Vimalananda's stories about music and its effects carry you away into his world as an Aghora. The stories about ragas, musicians who were once Gandharvas themselves, the magical tales of how compositions came to be made me feel like a small child reading fables again.
Of course, special mentions also go to the Esoteric Ramayana chapter. I think it is a very poignantly written chapter, although my bias for the Ramayan is ever present through my many reviews of retellings on Goodreads. I can keep going on and on about this series for ages, but I would say this book is best read after Aghora I as it does build on some of the material explained in book one. But mainly, for anyone who wants to understand Hindu puja practices and the influence of tantric practices on everyday Hindu rituals, this is the book for you. Previous to reading this, I never understood Tantra but really, we are all partaking in Tantric practices every time we light a lamp and do darshan at temples.
Special mention which I will mention again in my review of Aghora III is the deep respect that this book gives to great spiritual aspirants of ALL faiths. This book talks in depth about Jesus and Muslim fakirs with as much spiritual reverence as it talks about Aghoras. This is what really seals the spiritual growth this book has to offer everyone; it reminds us that at the end of the day, the means do not justify the end because the means are the end. Wherever our lives and parallely our spiritual sadhanas take us, the end of one phase is always the leeway to the next and similarly, all religious practices will bring you to another.
With all that said, I am deeply grateful to whatever stars have aligned yet again to give me the courage to read this book and be reintroduced to Vimalananda's wisdom through Dr. Svoboda.
April 29, 2023
One time read, Too much repetition of subject matter.
December 22, 2023
Astroamerica
AGHORA II: Kundalini - Robert Svoboda, $21.95
Contents:
Foreword, by Robert Masters; Introduction
1. Agni
2. Kundalini: self-identification, Coverings, Nadis & chakras, The nine chakras, Raising kundalini, Samadhi, Kula kundalini, The snake, The chakras, Kula kundalini
3. Preliminaries: Food, Panchamakara
4. Sadhana: Khanda manda yoga, Name & form, The soma yaga, "Make everything into a sadhana", The sun, the moon & fire, Gayatri
5. Mantra: Mantra siddhi, Using mantras, The five S's, Secrecy, Pronunciation, Four levels of speech, The four classes
6. Tantra: Time, eclipses & nights, Nyasa, Mental worship, Ganesha
7. Music: Nada yoga, Krishna & the Gopis, Krishna & Shiva
8. Immortals: Siddhas, Rishis, Munis, Naths & Siddhas, Notable siddhas, Rishis, Time & space, Anasuya, Avataras
9. The Esoteric Ramayana: The script, The players, Anjaneya's role
10. Gurus & Disciples
Appendix: Yantras: A general description, The nine nath siddhas. Glossary. Bibliography.
Comment: While living in Poona & while studying Ayurveda, the young Robert Svoboda was assigned to interview one Aghora Vimalananada, described as a doctor who practiced tantra & owned race horses.
Like all true disciples, Svoboda recounts he had to force himself to meet the man, who, while quickly becoming a major influence on Svoboda, never, in the strictly technical sense, became his guru.
The forword describes Aghora as a "super-tantra", a path of devotion to the great mother goddess Kundalini: The Aghori sets out to overcome human limitations by shattering internally every restraint, no matter how ancient or powerful the taboo, and also by creating a body/mind that is able to contain emotional, sensory and other experiences which would consume anyone not properly prepared. (pg. 13)
I have a hard time writing about the two Aghora books, I pass hours just reading them, they are fascinating.
Brotherhood of Life & Sadhana Publications, 319 pages.
-----
AGHORA II: Kundalini - Robert Svoboda, $21.95
Contents:
Foreword, by Robert Masters; Introduction
1. Agni
2. Kundalini: self-identification, Coverings, Nadis & chakras, The nine chakras, Raising kundalini, Samadhi, Kula kundalini, The snake, The chakras, Kula kundalini
3. Preliminaries: Food, Panchamakara
4. Sadhana: Khanda manda yoga, Name & form, The soma yaga, "Make everything into a sadhana", The sun, the moon & fire, Gayatri
5. Mantra: Mantra siddhi, Using mantras, The five S's, Secrecy, Pronunciation, Four levels of speech, The four classes
6. Tantra: Time, eclipses & nights, Nyasa, Mental worship, Ganesha
7. Music: Nada yoga, Krishna & the Gopis, Krishna & Shiva
8. Immortals: Siddhas, Rishis, Munis, Naths & Siddhas, Notable siddhas, Rishis, Time & space, Anasuya, Avataras
9. The Esoteric Ramayana: The script, The players, Anjaneya's role
10. Gurus & Disciples
Appendix: Yantras: A general description, The nine nath siddhas. Glossary. Bibliography.
Comment: While living in Poona & while studying Ayurveda, the young Robert Svoboda was assigned to interview one Aghora Vimalananada, described as a doctor who practiced tantra & owned race horses.
Like all true disciples, Svoboda recounts he had to force himself to meet the man, who, while quickly becoming a major influence on Svoboda, never, in the strictly technical sense, became his guru.
The forword describes Aghora as a "super-tantra", a path of devotion to the great mother goddess Kundalini: The Aghori sets out to overcome human limitations by shattering internally every restraint, no matter how ancient or powerful the taboo, and also by creating a body/mind that is able to contain emotional, sensory and other experiences which would consume anyone not properly prepared. (pg. 13)
I have a hard time writing about the two Aghora books, I pass hours just reading them, they are fascinating.
Brotherhood of Life & Sadhana Publications, 319 pages.
-----
May 23, 2020
The books of this nature are very hard to review and I'll try and be as objective as I can. I was spellbound (and also scared) after reading the part one of Aghora trilogy. The main character of the book is a Tantra practitioner Vimalananda, whom the author regards as his Guru. This one touches on multiple subjects related to Kundalini or spiritual awakening like Pranayama, Music, Devotion etc and is very interesting in parts.
As someone who's interested in these subjects, it's a good read with a lot of new ideas and perspectives interspersed across the text. However, there are two aspects of the book that are a slight let down:
1. The Sardonic, know it all, condescending tone of Vimalananda across the book reeks of arrogance and conceit. In my (very, very, very humble) opinion, such a trait is not reflective of a man of wisdom and spirituality.
2. Ascribing kundalini/chakra and numerology related meanings to every situation or belief is a big letdown. It seemed like the author was trying to ascribe symbolic meaning to everything under the sun. The chapter on Esoteric Ramayana was an awful 20 odd pages.
Overall, it's a decent read, but only in parts. Very generous 3/5
As someone who's interested in these subjects, it's a good read with a lot of new ideas and perspectives interspersed across the text. However, there are two aspects of the book that are a slight let down:
1. The Sardonic, know it all, condescending tone of Vimalananda across the book reeks of arrogance and conceit. In my (very, very, very humble) opinion, such a trait is not reflective of a man of wisdom and spirituality.
2. Ascribing kundalini/chakra and numerology related meanings to every situation or belief is a big letdown. It seemed like the author was trying to ascribe symbolic meaning to everything under the sun. The chapter on Esoteric Ramayana was an awful 20 odd pages.
Overall, it's a decent read, but only in parts. Very generous 3/5
March 5, 2019
You need to be really curious about Aghoris' or Hinduism or specifically Kundalini for getting through this book.
It's definitely not for everyone. Unless you are really interested in knowing about Kundalini and a lot of other random Hindu concepts, you would end up judging this book badly.
It's definitely not for everyone. Unless you are really interested in knowing about Kundalini and a lot of other random Hindu concepts, you would end up judging this book badly.
February 24, 2012
Delves into the meaning of Hindu rituals, music, spirituality, tantra etc. Must read if you are spiritually curious and want to know more about hinduism that isn't mainstream.
April 17, 2013
The entire set of Aghora Books is a must read. I keep going back to these books again and again.
December 16, 2016
Beautiful n immensely knowledgeable book. Gonna read it again.
December 9, 2025
2022 it was. It was a world slowly learning to breathe again after the shock of Covid-19. These books had become both compass and companion. All the works reviewed here, reviewed back then, reflect my collective reckoning—stories of endurance, rupture, memory, and meaning. Each book offers a shard of clarity in an age still stitching itself back together.
Warning: These books are intended strictly for academic study. Attempting to practise any of the Tantric methods described in them without proper initiation and guidance can be extremely harmful.
This book is that rare sequel that doesn’t just extend a story — it deepens the philosophical undercurrent until you feel you’re sitting at the edge of a cosmic well, watching truths ripple in and out of shadow.
If the first Aghora book was an introduction to Vimalananda’s worldview, this second volume is the plumbing of his spiritual physiology — the inner mechanics of awareness, energy, and the raw, serpentine shakti that animates everything.
Svoboda takes you into the engine room of Tantra, but with the same warmth, irreverent humour, and clarity that made the first text unforgettable.
What becomes instantly clear is that this book isn’t about “kundalini awakening” in the pop-spiritual sense. There’s no Instagram-glow, no airy advice, no mystical shortcuts. Vimalananda’s teachings, as relayed by Svoboda, are sharp, unsparing, and deeply experiential.
He treats the kundalini not as a fantasy or a psychological metaphor but as a living force — a conscious energy coiled at the base of the subtle body, waiting for the correct alignment of karma, tapas, and inner maturity to rise.
And that rise, he stresses, is not guaranteed to be blissful. It can be destabilizing, destructive, clarifying, or sublime — but it is never trivial.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is how Vimalananda’s explanations weave cosmic metaphysics with earthy realism. He talks about the chakras not as rainbow wheels but as evolutionary stations of consciousness.
He describes prana not as “life force” but as layered vitality, moving with purpose through the body’s currents.
And he treats the guru–disciple relationship not as a cliché but as a dangerous, transformative partnership that can shatter karmic inertia. Svoboda carries these teachings without diluting them, delivering prose that feels like sitting on a veranda during monsoon, listening to a man who has seen too much and laughs anyway.
The psychological depth of the book is striking. Vimalananda roots kundalini in samskara and desire — saying that what rises is shaped by what we have not resolved. If your mind is turbulent, the energy will mirror the turbulence.
If you force the awakening without readiness, you’re basically opening a fire hydrant in a clay pot.
This grounding is what makes the book so compelling: it’s mystical, yes, but never irresponsible. There’s a seriousness that refuses to romanticize inner explosions.
Some of the most memorable passages involve Vimalananda’s mythological interpretations. He reframes Hindu myths — Shiva and Shakti, Naga energies, Devi symbolism — as coded descriptions of inner transformation.
The cosmic dance becomes a neuro-spiritual choreography; the divine union becomes the merging of awareness and energy within the spine.
Through him, mythology stops being narrative and becomes instruction. And yet, he never makes it sound like textbook dogma — it feels alive, personal, and strangely contemporary.
Another powerful thread in the book is Vimalananda’s emphasis on purity — not moral purity, but energetic cleanliness. He talks about diet, lifestyle, intention, emotional honesty, and their direct impact on the subtle body.
Not in a prescriptive way, but with the weary compassion of someone who knows how easily seekers sabotage themselves.
You start to see kundalini not as something you “do,” but as a state you allow by not interfering with your own evolution.
Svoboda’s storytelling once again softens the intensity. His humility, curiosity, and occasional bewilderment make the material accessible without reducing its potency.
He knows he’s dealing with volatile truths, and he carries them like a student trying to honour a master whose wisdom operates on too many layers to fully grasp.
By the time you finish Aghora II: Kundalini, you feel less like you’ve read about a subject and more like you’ve been initiated into a conversation you weren’t absolutely prepared for — but are glad you entered anyway.
The book is unsettling, illuminating, destabilizing, and deeply beautiful. It reminds you that kundalini is not a power to be harnessed but a mirror to be survived — and, if you’re lucky, transcended.
Most recommended.
Warning: These books are intended strictly for academic study. Attempting to practise any of the Tantric methods described in them without proper initiation and guidance can be extremely harmful.
This book is that rare sequel that doesn’t just extend a story — it deepens the philosophical undercurrent until you feel you’re sitting at the edge of a cosmic well, watching truths ripple in and out of shadow.
If the first Aghora book was an introduction to Vimalananda’s worldview, this second volume is the plumbing of his spiritual physiology — the inner mechanics of awareness, energy, and the raw, serpentine shakti that animates everything.
Svoboda takes you into the engine room of Tantra, but with the same warmth, irreverent humour, and clarity that made the first text unforgettable.
What becomes instantly clear is that this book isn’t about “kundalini awakening” in the pop-spiritual sense. There’s no Instagram-glow, no airy advice, no mystical shortcuts. Vimalananda’s teachings, as relayed by Svoboda, are sharp, unsparing, and deeply experiential.
He treats the kundalini not as a fantasy or a psychological metaphor but as a living force — a conscious energy coiled at the base of the subtle body, waiting for the correct alignment of karma, tapas, and inner maturity to rise.
And that rise, he stresses, is not guaranteed to be blissful. It can be destabilizing, destructive, clarifying, or sublime — but it is never trivial.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is how Vimalananda’s explanations weave cosmic metaphysics with earthy realism. He talks about the chakras not as rainbow wheels but as evolutionary stations of consciousness.
He describes prana not as “life force” but as layered vitality, moving with purpose through the body’s currents.
And he treats the guru–disciple relationship not as a cliché but as a dangerous, transformative partnership that can shatter karmic inertia. Svoboda carries these teachings without diluting them, delivering prose that feels like sitting on a veranda during monsoon, listening to a man who has seen too much and laughs anyway.
The psychological depth of the book is striking. Vimalananda roots kundalini in samskara and desire — saying that what rises is shaped by what we have not resolved. If your mind is turbulent, the energy will mirror the turbulence.
If you force the awakening without readiness, you’re basically opening a fire hydrant in a clay pot.
This grounding is what makes the book so compelling: it’s mystical, yes, but never irresponsible. There’s a seriousness that refuses to romanticize inner explosions.
Some of the most memorable passages involve Vimalananda’s mythological interpretations. He reframes Hindu myths — Shiva and Shakti, Naga energies, Devi symbolism — as coded descriptions of inner transformation.
The cosmic dance becomes a neuro-spiritual choreography; the divine union becomes the merging of awareness and energy within the spine.
Through him, mythology stops being narrative and becomes instruction. And yet, he never makes it sound like textbook dogma — it feels alive, personal, and strangely contemporary.
Another powerful thread in the book is Vimalananda’s emphasis on purity — not moral purity, but energetic cleanliness. He talks about diet, lifestyle, intention, emotional honesty, and their direct impact on the subtle body.
Not in a prescriptive way, but with the weary compassion of someone who knows how easily seekers sabotage themselves.
You start to see kundalini not as something you “do,” but as a state you allow by not interfering with your own evolution.
Svoboda’s storytelling once again softens the intensity. His humility, curiosity, and occasional bewilderment make the material accessible without reducing its potency.
He knows he’s dealing with volatile truths, and he carries them like a student trying to honour a master whose wisdom operates on too many layers to fully grasp.
By the time you finish Aghora II: Kundalini, you feel less like you’ve read about a subject and more like you’ve been initiated into a conversation you weren’t absolutely prepared for — but are glad you entered anyway.
The book is unsettling, illuminating, destabilizing, and deeply beautiful. It reminds you that kundalini is not a power to be harnessed but a mirror to be survived — and, if you’re lucky, transcended.
Most recommended.
did-not-finish
May 20, 2024I usually don't prefer to DNF books because I immediately feel like I've thrown my money down the drain. So I do try to read them bit by bit, maybe not exactly cover to cover, over a period of time. However this particular book has really been testing my patience. You would think I'd learn from my previous experience with Aghora 1, but no, here I am, trying to get through Aghora 2 while seething internally. Saying that I'm at my wits' end would be an understatement.
Vimlanand, as I deduced from my brush with the first book itself, is a conceited, sex-obsessed (well atleast in his thoughts and ideas), uptight, egoistic and just generally a nasty person. This is supposed to be a book, just like the previous one, broadly about spirituality. There isn't a single page where he hasn't alluded to or directly compared even the most mundane and unrelated things to sex. Ironically, he wants to drive the point that one shouldn't be so obsessed with bodily pleasures like gluttony, sex, excess sleep, etc but he ends up using sex or elements of lust to get most of his points across. It's very vulgar and disturbing.
Secondly, as much as he speaks of himself being a householder as well as an aghori, the householder tag is just for namesake, to make himself feel better. It seems he hasn't even spent much time dedicated to his family. Moreover, he has actually implied that his wife is dull and prejudiced. I mean, why would you embarrass your wife in front of millions of readers across the world? It's in very bad taste.
Thirdly, there are some scientific things that he speaks about while drawing comparisons to other topics. They're incorrect. Atleast the editors should've fact-checked before publishing.
Look, I can go on and on. He simply doesn't get to the point of actually teaching and keeps being repetitive. I tried my best to ignore his nonsense so that I can take away the actual knowledge. But it's really hard. He's just not a nice person. This was my conclusion with the first book too. But I shall keep trying to read it, because I do have the patience of a yogi, maybe just not the tolerance yet. 😅
However for now, I have DNFed it.
Vimlanand, as I deduced from my brush with the first book itself, is a conceited, sex-obsessed (well atleast in his thoughts and ideas), uptight, egoistic and just generally a nasty person. This is supposed to be a book, just like the previous one, broadly about spirituality. There isn't a single page where he hasn't alluded to or directly compared even the most mundane and unrelated things to sex. Ironically, he wants to drive the point that one shouldn't be so obsessed with bodily pleasures like gluttony, sex, excess sleep, etc but he ends up using sex or elements of lust to get most of his points across. It's very vulgar and disturbing.
Secondly, as much as he speaks of himself being a householder as well as an aghori, the householder tag is just for namesake, to make himself feel better. It seems he hasn't even spent much time dedicated to his family. Moreover, he has actually implied that his wife is dull and prejudiced. I mean, why would you embarrass your wife in front of millions of readers across the world? It's in very bad taste.
Thirdly, there are some scientific things that he speaks about while drawing comparisons to other topics. They're incorrect. Atleast the editors should've fact-checked before publishing.
Look, I can go on and on. He simply doesn't get to the point of actually teaching and keeps being repetitive. I tried my best to ignore his nonsense so that I can take away the actual knowledge. But it's really hard. He's just not a nice person. This was my conclusion with the first book too. But I shall keep trying to read it, because I do have the patience of a yogi, maybe just not the tolerance yet. 😅
However for now, I have DNFed it.
February 20, 2025
This one takes readers deeper into the esoteric teachings of his guru, Vimalananda, exploring the profound and often misunderstood subject of Kundalini. Unlike typical books on the topic that offer theoretical or sanitized perspectives, this work presents Kundalini as a living, intense force—both transformative and potentially dangerous if not approached correctly.
What sets this book apart is its no-nonsense, experience-based approach. Vimalananda’s teachings strip away the mystical glamour surrounding Kundalini, revealing its raw and unpredictable nature. The book covers a range of topics, from chakras and energy dynamics to the effects of awakening Kundalini through different yogic and tantric practices. Along the way, it challenges many popularized misconceptions, urging seekers to approach the path with caution, discipline, and proper guidance.
More than just a guide to Kundalini, this book serves as a deep dive into the Aghori worldview—where spirituality is not about escapism but full immersion into the reality of existence, with all its light and darkness.
For serious seekers looking to move beyond superficial understandings of Kundalini, Aghora II is an essential read. However, it is not a beginner-friendly book; it demands open-mindedness, introspection, and a readiness to question deeply ingrained beliefs. A must-read for those drawn to the intense and transformative dimensions of spiritual evolution.
What sets this book apart is its no-nonsense, experience-based approach. Vimalananda’s teachings strip away the mystical glamour surrounding Kundalini, revealing its raw and unpredictable nature. The book covers a range of topics, from chakras and energy dynamics to the effects of awakening Kundalini through different yogic and tantric practices. Along the way, it challenges many popularized misconceptions, urging seekers to approach the path with caution, discipline, and proper guidance.
More than just a guide to Kundalini, this book serves as a deep dive into the Aghori worldview—where spirituality is not about escapism but full immersion into the reality of existence, with all its light and darkness.
For serious seekers looking to move beyond superficial understandings of Kundalini, Aghora II is an essential read. However, it is not a beginner-friendly book; it demands open-mindedness, introspection, and a readiness to question deeply ingrained beliefs. A must-read for those drawn to the intense and transformative dimensions of spiritual evolution.
April 16, 2025
# Aghora Part Two: Kundalini by Robert E. Svoboda
★★★★☆
Svoboda's second Aghora book delivers the perfect blend of mysticism and narrative that made the first installment so captivating. Through the continuing story of Vimalananda, complex Kundalini concepts unfold in accessible, memorable ways that textbooks simply cannot achieve.
What makes this book special is how it doesn't shy away from acknowledging the subjective nature of spiritual experiences. While some might find this transparency jarring, I appreciated the authenticity. The fantastical elements leave you wondering where objective reality ends and personal interpretation begins—and whether that distinction even matters on a spiritual journey.
Like its predecessor, this book presents profound ideas through engaging storytelling, ensuring the concepts stay with you long after the final page. The spiritual principles are delivered with such nonchalance that paradoxically adds to their impact rather than diminishing it.
A thought-provoking read that bridges the gap between ancient Tantric wisdom and modern spiritual seeking. Can't wait to dive into the third book!
★★★★☆
Svoboda's second Aghora book delivers the perfect blend of mysticism and narrative that made the first installment so captivating. Through the continuing story of Vimalananda, complex Kundalini concepts unfold in accessible, memorable ways that textbooks simply cannot achieve.
What makes this book special is how it doesn't shy away from acknowledging the subjective nature of spiritual experiences. While some might find this transparency jarring, I appreciated the authenticity. The fantastical elements leave you wondering where objective reality ends and personal interpretation begins—and whether that distinction even matters on a spiritual journey.
Like its predecessor, this book presents profound ideas through engaging storytelling, ensuring the concepts stay with you long after the final page. The spiritual principles are delivered with such nonchalance that paradoxically adds to their impact rather than diminishing it.
A thought-provoking read that bridges the gap between ancient Tantric wisdom and modern spiritual seeking. Can't wait to dive into the third book!
December 18, 2023
Excellent book! I really enjoyed reading this book and for the first time annotated a book. Usually I hate writing anything in my books but this was filled with so much of interesting information & stories that I had to mark it up so that I could re-read it at some later date. The Kundalini & the Chakras are beautifully explained in the book. The information about the divine beings like Rishis, Siddhas is also very fascinating. I found the whole exercise of finding the esoteric meaning behind everything a little tiring & even far fetched, especially the esoteric meaning of the Ramayana was the most boring part for me. Other than that I enjoyed reading this book which provided so many insights into the divine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2019
I couldn't rate it lower. The author knows what he is writing. I could definitely relate to most of it. Moreover somehow reading this book gave me peace of mind. For the final 50 pages, I simply went to the park and sat in cross legged position to read it through.
Vimalananda is a legend surely and his legacy lives on via his diciple. One thing I loved about this book is the writing style. It is basically a conversation between 2 people, guru and student. You can relate to student and sometimes feel as perplexed as him about some topics. Moreover each esoteric concept is explained via different stories and anecdotes which makes it all the more interesting to read.
Vimalananda is a legend surely and his legacy lives on via his diciple. One thing I loved about this book is the writing style. It is basically a conversation between 2 people, guru and student. You can relate to student and sometimes feel as perplexed as him about some topics. Moreover each esoteric concept is explained via different stories and anecdotes which makes it all the more interesting to read.
January 18, 2025
It took me significantly longer to finish this book compared to Aghora 1, primarily because this volume is more suited for readers interested in practicing and learning Kundalini yoga.
I found it challenging to follow, as the book leans heavily toward serving as a guide for those who wish to explore this subject in depth. That said, certain sections stand out with fascinating stories and insightful lessons to take away.
For me, the key takeaways were the understanding of karmabandhana, the importance of a guru, the implications and applications of the three gunas, and the extraordinary tales that challenge the limits of the human mind to grasp such supreme existence.
I found it challenging to follow, as the book leans heavily toward serving as a guide for those who wish to explore this subject in depth. That said, certain sections stand out with fascinating stories and insightful lessons to take away.
For me, the key takeaways were the understanding of karmabandhana, the importance of a guru, the implications and applications of the three gunas, and the extraordinary tales that challenge the limits of the human mind to grasp such supreme existence.
July 15, 2023
A great book for those who want to delve into the practice of tantra (not the process but the intricacies involved) and specifically this part for the greatest shakti inherent in human body, often discussed as Kundalini in the mundane world.
Dr Svoboda has been very diligent with his work and his questions and the answers of Sri Vimalananda ji are not just fascinating but eye opening.
The accounts of Mahapurushas, Babaji, Junior guru maharaj, senior guru maharaj and other sages very thought provoking and intricate.
Have a great read!
Dr Svoboda has been very diligent with his work and his questions and the answers of Sri Vimalananda ji are not just fascinating but eye opening.
The accounts of Mahapurushas, Babaji, Junior guru maharaj, senior guru maharaj and other sages very thought provoking and intricate.
Have a great read!
March 24, 2020
Totally worth reading as it shows a complete map of your sadhna as when to begin and how to progress and what path to select. It would be better though if you select your style of sadhna and then read this book. Surely better than part I Aghora as promised.
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