Vedanta ( Upanishads and Bhagvad Geeta) makes you fall in love with yourself and takes you on a journey from World dependence ...to ...Ishwara dependence.....to..... Self dependence.
Because of self consciousness the core person judges " I am unhappy, inadequate, insignificant and unsuccessful.
Bhagvad geeta says these are just notions because of just not knowing the true nature of the self due to ignorance and delusion. Then Bhagvad Geeta shows you a magical " word mirror" and in this mirror you see your stunning, gorgeous, beautiful, happy, sweet self. You will have to recognise yourself with shraddha which is neither trust nor faith but is the status of means of knowledge in the form of words. The words roar "Tat Tvam Asi" "You are THAT" "THAT" is Ishwara ( GOD) Me? difficult to assimilate "I am an emotive being! How? I am THAT?" Actually, emotions are an endowment. Only emotions shouldn't overpower you. The emotive being becomes a cognitive person. Look at this, all waves are in the ocean. The ocean is H2O. Emotions, cognitions, and and knowledge are in ( Ocean=H20). The existence of waves ( Emotions etc.) are not independent. Their existence is borrowed. Similarly the BMS complex has borrowed existence from (consciousness).
KNOW SUCH DEEPPLEASANT MYSTERIES OF YOURSELF IN THIS VEDANT TREAT.
Have you ever felt stuck in your own thoughts, overwhelmed by emotions, or just disconnected from yourself?
We get so caught up in our thoughts, emotions, and everyday struggles that we forget who we truly are." You Are the Conqueror " is one of those rare books that doesn’t just make you think—it makes you see. Rooted in Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita, it invites you to step back from the noise and reflect on the deeper truths of life.
What I loved most about this book is how effortlessly it breaks down complex spiritual concepts. It doesn’t feel like a lecture, nor does it drown you in heavy philosophy. Instead, it speaks to you like a wise friend, guiding you toward self-awareness and inner peace. One of the most powerful takeaways for me was the idea of the “word mirror”—the ability to see ourselves beyond emotions, beyond labels, and beyond our daily worries. How often do we let fear, doubt, and circumstances define us when, in reality, we are so much more?
Another concept that stood out was Shraddha. The book explains that it isn’t just blind faith, but a deeper trust—an openness to understanding the truth. That perspective changed the way I see not just spirituality, but life itself. Instead of resisting change or questioning why things happen, what if we allowed ourselves to trust the process?
What makes "You Are the Conqueror" truly special is its balance between wisdom and relatability. It acknowledges that we’re human—that we struggle, overthink, and sometimes feel lost. But instead of telling us to suppress those feelings, it teaches us how to navigate them with clarity.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or disconnected from yourself, this book is for you. It’s not just a read—it’s a journey inward, one that leaves you feeling lighter, more aware, and ready to embrace life with a new perspective.
"Bhagvad Geeta points out actions with the right attitude - Karmyoga - to exhaust mental weakness and dirt. Karmyoga prepares mind to face any situation in the right way - while it maintains inner content and composure."
If you believe in Vedanta, comprising of the Upanishads and Bhagavad Geeta, then pick this up. There are many people who believe in Geeta, its teachings, and discourses. Likewise, this book too gives you solace by relating all of our life's events to Vedanta.
With her simple yet strong narration, the author has explained the concepts rooted deep in our Hindu culture very well. Everything that happens is for a reason and has a deep meaning. Complex chapters are broken down into smaller, simpler segments that can be understood by everyone. She also tells the golden rules from the Bhagavad Geeta. My favorite was the in-detail explanation of Moksha. Concluding, it's a book that you should pick up only if you believe in the concept.
"A deep spiritual journey from self-doubt to self-realization, guided by the wisdom of Vedanta."
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Overview Dr. Pratibha V. Dave's You Are The Conqueror is a journey of self-awareness, Vedantic philosophy, and gaining personal empowerment. Drawing from the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita, the book unravels the illusion of inadequacy and unhappiness, leading the reader to self-dependence and inner fulfillment.
At the very core of this book lies a Vedantic revelation that our real flaws—our unhappiness, insignificance, and inadequacy—are no realities but misunderstandings. This Bhagavad Gita then offers a word-mirror before which one reflects his true and divine nature as opposed to feeling and externalized identities.
The book simplifies complex Vedantic wisdom through correspondingly relatable analogies of waves in the ocean for a modern readership. It is not a book but a pathway to self-discovery, inner strength, and, finally, to self-mastery.
Key Takeaways
✔ Vedantic wisdom simplified • Deeply spiritual concepts of Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita made practical and relevant
✔ Dealing with self-doubt • Overthrows the false self-judgments of being unhappy or inadequate and replaces them with empowering self-awareness.
✔ A Journey of Dependence to Independence • Moves from world-dependence to Ishwara (God) dependence and ultimately to self-dependence, helping readers rediscover their own power.
✔ The "Word-Mirror" Concept • Encourages deep introspection and self-recognition through the Bhagavad Gita's declaration: "Tat Tvam Asi" (You Are That).
✔ Blending Emotion and Cognition • Transmutes an emotionally driven being into a cognitively aware individual, balancing feelings with wisdom.
✔ Deep Yet Practical Insights • Uses beautiful metaphors (e.g., waves and ocean) to explain consciousness, emotions, and self-realization in an engaging, digestible way.
Strengths
✅ Rich in spiritual wisdom drawn from Vedanta, yet explained in a way modern readers can grasp. ✅ Encourages self-exploration and provides a clear path to inner happiness and freedom. ✅ Thought-provoking and empowering, breaking the shackles of self-imposed limitations in the minds of readers. ✅ Beautifully written with clarity, making deep concepts accessible to beginners in Vedantic studies.
Who Should Read This Book?
✔ Spiritual seekers who want to understand Vedanta and Bhagavad Gita better. ✔ Anyone suffering from self-doubt or inadequacy, seeking a way to gain inner strength. ✔ Readers interested in self-improvement through the prism of Eastern wisdom. ✔ Those curious about the true nature of the self, consciousness, and the universe.
You Are The Conqueror is a strong and eye-opening read that deconstructs Vedantic philosophy into practical wisdom to achieve self-mastery. With the help of Dr. Pratibha V. Dave, readers move beyond self-doubt and external dependence toward the realization that true happiness and strength come from within. This is the perfect book if you are looking for one that feeds the mind and soul!
You Are the Conqueror by Dr. Pratibha V. Bhave – A Profound Journey Through Vedanta
You Are the Conqueror by Dr. Pratibha V. Bhave is a transformative read that explores the essence of life through six insightful chapters inspired by Vedanta. With remarkable clarity and depth, the book delves into the complexities of stress, self-awareness, and the philosophy of Karmayoga—presenting profound wisdom in a simple, easy-to-understand manner without overwhelming the reader.
Understanding Stress and Its Role in Life
The journey begins with an exploration of stress—its meaning, causes, and impact on our well-being. Dr. Bhave categorizes stress into individual, environmental, work-related, and financial factors while also shedding light on the advantages of stress and effective techniques to manage it.
The Importance of Relating to Your Surroundings
The book emphasizes the need to connect with our surroundings, equating this connection to relating with Ishwara—the embodiment of nature’s laws. Dr. Bhave stresses the importance of Dharma, highlighting that living in harmony with universal laws is the key to leading a righteous life.
Self-Discovery Through Vedanta
A core teaching of Vedanta is self-love and acceptance. The author explains that embracing our own imperfections allows us to accept others as they are. Life’s challenges, including hurt, guilt, and love, are inevitable, but learning to manage emotions with wisdom is crucial for inner peace.
Karmayoga – The Path to Fulfillment
Dr. Bhave provides a deep insight into Karmayoga, as outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna advocates a life centered around selfless action. She presents Karmayoga as the ultimate key to human fulfillment, offering a new perspective on achieving balance, purpose, and contentment.
Exploring the Self, Vedas, and the Path to Success
The final section of the book delves into self-realization, the significance of the four Vedas, the concept of Atma (soul), and the pursuit of immortality. Dr. Bhave also introduces 10 golden rules for success, providing actionable insights to lead a life of growth, wisdom, and self-mastery.
Why You Should Read You Are the Conqueror • A Simplified Approach to Vedanta – Deep philosophical concepts explained in an accessible and relatable manner. • Stress Management & Emotional Well-being – Practical guidance on coping with stress, guilt, and personal struggles. • Spiritual Growth & Self-Discovery – A roadmap to understanding oneself, connecting with nature, and embracing Dharma. • Karmayoga for a Meaningful Life – Insights into selfless action and finding completeness through purpose. • Success Principles Rooted in Ancient Wisdom – Timeless lessons from Vedanta to apply in everyday life.
If you’re looking for a book that combines ancient wisdom with practical insights, You Are the Conqueror is a must-read. It offers a holistic approach to self-growth, making it an enlightening guide for anyone seeking peace, purpose, and personal transformation.
You Are The Conqueror attempts to tackle one of the most fundamental questions of human existence—who are we really? The book, drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, invites readers to look beyond the layers of their egos and emotions to discover the divine essence within. But for a work that touches on such lofty topics, it doesn’t shy away from the messiness of human experience. In fact, it embraces it, using a slightly imperfect lens to break down Vedanta’s timeless wisdom.
The premise of the book is simple, but profound: we live in a state of ignorance, often deluded by our emotions, thoughts, and perceptions. This confusion leads us to think that we are separate from the divine or from each other. In this sea of misunderstanding, the book hands us a metaphorical “word mirror,” one that allows us to reflect on our true nature—a nature that is not bound by ego or the ups and downs of emotions. Instead, we see ourselves as we really are: pure, beautiful, full of joy, and, yes, divine.
The first major hurdle in understanding this truth is the concept of Shraddha—a kind of trust in the process of knowledge through words. The book carefully explains that Shraddha is not faith in the traditional sense, but more like an openness to accepting the deeper meaning of the words. At first, this idea is difficult to wrap your mind around, and honestly, even after reading it, it’s still a little fuzzy. How can words, mere words, carry us to the profound truth of our existence? But the book pushes us to trust the process, gently guiding us through the challenging realization that we are, in fact, part of something much bigger than we tend to think.
The words “Tat Tvam Asi” (“You are THAT”) are thrown around like an easy answer to a complicated question. Sure, the idea that you are “THAT” (the divine, the ultimate reality, the ocean of consciousness) is a nice thought, but it’s hard to internalize. I mean, seriously, how can I, with all my imperfections, emotions, and attachments, be “THAT”? Isn’t it just too grand? I’m emotional, I get upset, I can’t even meditate properly most days—how could I be anything like Ishwara (God)?
'You Are The Conqueror' by Dr. Pratibha V. Dave is a profound exploration of self-discovery through the lens of Vedanta, as revealed in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. This work serves as a transformative guide that encourages readers to transition from dependence on the external world to ultimate self-dependence by understanding their true nature.
The book begins by addressing the pervasive sense of inadequacy, unhappiness and insignificance that stems from self-conscious. Dr. Dave asserts that these feelings are mere misconceptions caused by ignorance of the true self. The Bhagavad Gita, she explains, acts as a "Word - Mirror" that reflects the stunning and divine essence within each individual.
Dr. Dave beautifully explains the role of emotions, emphasizing that while emotions are a natural endowment, they should not dominate us. Instead, the emotive being must evolve into a cognitive one, understanding that all aspects of our being- emotions, thoughts and knowledge - are interconnected, much like waves are inseparable from the ocean.
The metaphorical and poetic style of the book makes complex philosophical concepts accessible, while it's practical wisdom encourages readers to embrace self-awareness with shraddha. Dr. Dave's work is an invitation to explore the "deep-pleasant mysteries" of the self and to experience the bliss of recognising one's true, unchanging nature.
Key takeaways:-
🫧The Bhagavad Gita helps dispel ignorance about the self by revealing the inherent divinity within.
🫧Emotions are a gift but must be harmonized with cognition to achieve self-mastery.
🫧The interconnectedness of existence mirrors the relationship between waves and the ocean, understanding the inseparability of the individual self from universal consciousness.
Overall, "You Are The Conqueror" is an enlightening read for those seeking spiritual clarity and inner peace. It offers a rich blend of philosophical insights and practical guidance, making it a valuable resource for anyone on the path of self-realization.
This book, "You Are The Conqueror", is a Vedantic guide which helps us to live an intelligent, happy, stress-free and fulfilling life. Much of the contents of this book are inspired and sourced from the valuable teachings of the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.
One of the central arguments in this book is about the core Vedantic ideas, such as the notion of the self ('I') as the closest and most significant entity to each individual. Similarly, the book talks about "Tat Tvam Asi" (“You are That”) and the metaphor of the ocean and waves effectively illustrate the interconnectedness of existence and consciousness.
Moreover, the book also talks about the significance of Karmayoga in the modern day's human life, especially for children and youth. The book has tried to explain such profound philosophical concepts in an accessible and simple language.
The author has mentioned "10 golden success rules" from the Bhagavad Gita which not only provide practical steps but also timeless wisdom which can make our life fulfilling and prosperous.
The writing style is intense and somewhat dense and didactic at times, which might alienate readers unfamiliar with Vedantic terminology. Hence, the book will educate you and will excite you read more about such concepts.
Though the book has philosophical depth and it's commendable too but the text assumes readers to have prior knowledge about concepts like Ishwara and shraddha, so the beginners will have to read more to understand and grasp the concepts.
The book has philosophical rigor as well as motivational rhetoric. It is engaging for seasoned readers as well as those unfamiliar to Vedanta. Overall, a valuable resource for everyone who wants to gain the foundational understanding of Vedanta, Bhagavad Gita’s and Upanishads’ teachings.
Book : You Are The Conqueror Author : Dr. Pratibha V.Dave Genre : #vedanta #bhagwadgeeta #upanishad #selfhelp Rating : 4.8/5
Dr. Pratibha V. Dave, an esteemed scholar of Vedanta, brings her deep understanding of spiritual philosophy into You Are The Conqueror. With a strong foundation in the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, she presents a guide that helps readers transition from dependence on the external world to self-reliance through self-realization. The book’s cover exudes a divine aura, complementing its profound theme of spiritual awakening. As a book centered on Vedantic wisdom, it promises to illuminate the path of self-discovery and inner peace.
What makes this book special is its ability to simplify complex spiritual concepts for modern readers. Dr. Dave explains how inadequacy and unhappiness are illusions rooted in ignorance, and she presents the Bhagavad Gita as a “Word-Mirror” that reflects one’s true, divine essence. The book beautifully explores the balance between emotions and wisdom, urging readers to evolve into cognitive individuals rather than being driven by fleeting feelings. Through metaphors like the ocean and its waves, the book highlights the interconnectedness of existence, making Vedantic teachings not just theoretical but deeply relatable.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Somnath, a place rich in spiritual significance, and that experience heightened my connection to this book. The teachings in You Are The Conqueror resonated even more as I reflected on the timeless wisdom embedded in our scriptures. This book is a must-read for spiritual seekers, those dealing with self-doubt, or anyone interested in incorporating Eastern philosophy into their personal growth. With its blend of profound insights and practical wisdom, it offers a transformative journey toward inner strength and self-realization.
• 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐑𝐎𝐑 is a spiritually enriching book that delves into the philosophy of Vedanta, particularly drawing insights from the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads. The author presents profound wisdom in a simplified manner, making it accessible to readers seeking self awareness, inner peace, and a deeper understand of their true nature.
• The book addresses the Universal human struggle of feeling inadequate or unfulfilled, explaining that these are misconceptions caused by ignorance of one's true self. It introduces key concepts like KARMAYOGA and DHARMA to help readers align their lives with higher purpose. The narrative guides readers on a journey from dependency on the external world to a state of self reliance and inner strength.
• Practical tools for stress management, mindfulness, and self discovery are included, making it relevant for modern day challenges. The complex Vedantic teachings into really easy language are explained here. This makes it easier for beginners. This book also provides actionable stages to incorporate into life.
• On one hand this book is an uplifting game changer, but on the other hand those who are unfamiliar with these philosophical essences may take time to grasp the depth of this book. With the self improving journey, this book balances the philosophical senses with its practical applications.
Some books don’t just inform—they transform. You Are The Conqueror is one such book. Rooted in Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita, it is not just a philosophical text but a guide to self-discovery, emotional resilience, and inner freedom.
What struck me most was the clarity and conviction in the writing. The author doesn’t just explain concepts—she lives them. There’s a calm confidence in her words, making even the most profound spiritual truths accessible and relatable. Whether you’re well-versed in Vedantic teachings or completely new to them, this book speaks directly to the reader without unnecessary complexity.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was the idea that we often get trapped in our problems, fixated on them until they consume us. Instead, the book teaches us to step back, observe, and respond with clarity rather than being emotionally overwhelmed. The "word-mirror" concept, where we see ourselves as we truly are—strong, whole, and independent—was especially powerful.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, even non-readers or those unfamiliar with Vedanta. The book’s simplicity, wisdom, and practical approach make it a must-read for anyone seeking personal growth and inner peace.
“Bhagvad Geeta is a bouquet – composed of beautiful flowers of spiritual truth collected from Upanishads”
- Dr. Pratibha V Dave, You are the Conqueror
‘You are the Conqueror’ seeks to unveil the beauty and depth of the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads, exploring their relevance in the conflicts and restlessness of the modern world, which stem from lack of inner composure.
The read unpacks the message and relevance in Geeta and Upanishads, corelating it with modern problems that require solutions. Dr. Pratibha debunks myths around Bhagavad Geeta, how it holds good even today as truth is universal. Through examples and instances, she simplifies their essence and making it accessible to people of all age groups.
A step-by-step approach is employed in organising the teachings into coherent chapters. The Sanskrit verses are broken down into words and translated to English for better understanding. The inclusion of hymns, their pronunciation is done in a manner that doesn't require prior knowledge of Bhagavad Gita, Vedas and Upanishads. The book has fulfilled its intended purpose by laying a foundation before exploring the sacred text in depth.
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐲 𝐃𝐫. 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐡𝐚 𝐕. 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐞 offers profound insights into the teachings of Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita. If you’re feeling lost, unsatisfied with life, or as though things aren’t unfolding as you’d hoped, this book can shift your perspective. It primarily focuses on how individuals can attain happiness and contentment, along with the knowledge needed to reach these states. Despite being a concise read of under 150 pages, the wisdom it imparts can bring peace and spiritual growth when applied in daily life.
While the book is well-written, the lack of proper editing makes some explanations of complex concepts challenging. The sentence structures sometimes hinder a full understanding of the author’s intended message. Nonetheless, the book introduces valuable knowledge from the Upanishads, which may be new to many readers. I truly appreciated the essence of this book, and with better editing, it could have had an even greater impact.
This Vedantic reflection offers a profound yet empowering message about self-discovery and inner transformation. It starts by acknowledging how our natural self-consciousness often leads us to judge ourselves as inadequate or insignificant. The Bhagavad Gita then steps in as a guiding light, revealing that these beliefs are merely illusions born from ignorance.
It’s an uplifting and empowering message: you are not limited by your emotions or insecurities. You are that vast, limitless consciousness.