From Shiva to Schrödinger: Unravelling Cosmic Secrets with Trika Shaivism and Quantum Insights

by Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar

From Shiva to Schrödinger offers a revelatory journey into the teachings of Trika Shaivism and their remarkable alignment with the discoveries of modern quantum physics. This thought-provoking book demonstrates how the profound insights of this ancient spiritual tradition predate and parallel the concepts emerging from the cutting-edge world of quantum mechanics.

With clarity and depth, the author illustrates how the Trika Shaivism philosophy anticipated many of the important discoveries that modern physicists are just beginning to comprehend. He delves into the heart of both ancient spirituality and contemporary science to showcase how concepts like non-duality, the interconnectedness of all existence, and the illusion of separation resonate powerfully with the latest scientific theories of entanglement, quantum superposition, and the observer effect.

All in all, From Shiva to Schrödinger is not just a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary insights; it is a beacon illuminating the path to a deeper understanding of our universe and ourselves. So, whether you are drawn to spiritual inquiry or scientific discovery, this book offers a transformative perspective that will enrich your contemporary quest for knowledge.

Genres: Science

240 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2024

About the author

Dr. Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar is Assistant Professor at Amrita Vishwavidyapeetham Delhi NCR and Adjunct Professor at the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) Bengaluru. Having completed his doctorate from the renowned Cavendish Laboratory – University of Cambridge, he has been Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University, senior postdoctoral researcher at the Indian Institute of Science – Bangalore (funded by the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India), and a postdoctoral associate of Nobel Laureate (Physics, 1973) Prof. Brian Josephson at the University of Cambridge. He has been a Trinity Barlow Scholar (2015-2018), Nehru Scholar (2014-2018), Inspire Scholar (2011-2014) and TIFR NIUS Fellow (2012-2014). He has been a lead speaker at the National Quantum Mission strategic consultations, in the theme of Quantum Error Correction and Quantum Error Mitigation. He has had training in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from the MIT Schwarzmann School of Computing. Dr. Guha Majumdar has been showcased by UNESCO twice, in its documentary screened at the Global Convention on Higher Education 2018 and as the lead of the Drafting and Organization Committees for the NGO-UNESCO Position Paper on Youth and Advocacy 2021. He has chaired a C20 session on Education and Technology, besides having his position-paper on technological interventions for pedagogical innovations forwarded by the C20 Secretariat to the G20 2023. Previously, he has worked with the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Government of India, on competency-based learning, differentiated curriculum and experiential learning, submitting a report that fed into the formulation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He has been a science communicator, with his documentary on Quantum Mechanics having been aired on Doordarshan, under the Science India initiative. He is the national convenor of Mandala, Vijnana Bharati, and previously member of the Academic Standards and Enhancement Committee (ASEC) of the University of Cambridge.

Reviews

[Harsh Agrawal]

Read our full review here: https://www.keetabikeeda.in/post/revi...

[Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Mrityunjoy Guha Majumdar’s From Shiva to Schrödinger is a groundbreaking work that bridges two seemingly disparate worlds: the ancient spiritual philosophy of Trika Shaivism and the modern scientific field of quantum physics. The book not only illuminates the striking parallels between these domains but also challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of reality, existence, and consciousness.

An Intersection of Wisdom and Science

Trika Shaivism, rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, offers profound insights into the nature of existence, non-duality, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Dr. Majumdar skillfully demonstrates how these teachings align with the principles of quantum mechanics, such as entanglement, superposition, and the observer effect. The book delves into the idea that what modern physicists are uncovering today was already intuitively understood by ancient sages centuries ago.

For example, the concept of Shiva, representing the infinite consciousness that permeates everything, resonates with the quantum idea of a unified field where all particles are interconnected. Similarly, the illusion of separation, a core tenet of Shaivism, parallels the observer effect in quantum physics, where the act of observation alters the state of a particle, suggesting a profound relationship between the observer and the observed.

Clarity in Complexity

One of the book’s standout features is its ability to make complex topics accessible to a diverse audience. Dr. Majumdar writes with exceptional clarity, ensuring that neither the scientific theories nor the spiritual philosophies feel intimidating. He breaks down the principles of quantum mechanics with examples and analogies while simultaneously unraveling the esoteric layers of Trika Shaivism. This dual approach enriches the reader’s understanding of both fields.

The author also provides a historical perspective, tracing how ancient spiritual traditions developed their insights and how modern science is beginning to validate them.

[Bookswithavinish · Rating 5 out of 5]

'From Shiva To Schrodinger' by Dr. Mrityunjay Guha Majumdar is a fascinating exploration of the deep connections between Trika Shaivism, an ancient spiritual traditions, and modern quantum physics. The book presents a compelling argument that many of the insights revealed by contemporary science were already anticipated by the teachings of this ancient Indian philosophy.

Through this lens, the author bridges the gap between spiritual wisdom and scientific discovery, providing a fresh perspective on the nature of reality, consciousness, and the universe.

Key Insights:-

✨The book highlights how Trika Shaivism's core concept of non-duality aligns with quantum theories such as wave - particle duality, superposition, and the interconnectedness of all things.

✨It draws parallels between the shaivite understanding of the perceiving self and quantum mechanics observer effect, where observation itself influences physical reality.

✨The text explores how Shaivism's notion of Maya (illusion) mirrors the quantum concept of entanglement, where seemingly separate particles are intrinsically connected.

✨The book offers a thought-provoking discussion on how modern science is gradually uncovering what ancient sages invited about the universe.

✨The author's exploration of Trika Shaivism is thorough, providing readers with a rich understanding of this mystical tradition.

✨Whether one is inclined towards science or spirituality, the book offers valuable insights that challenge conventional perspectives.

'From Shiva To Schrodinger' is a must-read for those fascinated by the intersection of science and spirituality. Whether you are a physicist, a philosopher, or a seeker of wisdom, this book offers a refreshing and profound perspective on the nature of existence. It successfully bridges the gap between ancient metaphorical insights and modern scientific discoveries, making it a valuable addition to the growing dialogue between eastern philosophy and western science.

Must read♥️♥️

[Book Island · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar’s From Shiva to Schrödinger: Unravelling Cosmic Secrets with Trika Shaivism & Quantum Insights is a thought-provoking examination of the intersection between ancient Indian metaphysics and modern quantum physics. By weaving together the principles of Trika Shaivism with key concepts in quantum mechanics, Majumdar presents a novel framework that challenges reductionist paradigms and highlights the interconnectedness of existence.

The book stands out for its detailed exposition of Trika Shaivism, particularly its non-dualistic worldview, which posits that all of reality emanates from Paramashiva, the supreme consciousness. The author skillfully connects these ideas with quantum phenomena such as entanglement, wave function collapse, and the observer effect, suggesting an intrinsic link between consciousness and the nature of reality. The comparisons between Trika Shaivism’s spanda (primordial vibration) and quantum theory’s interconnected particles are particularly illuminating, offering a fresh lens to view both disciplines.

Majumdar’s critique of the subject-object dichotomy, a central tenet of Western philosophy, adds depth to the discussion. By dissolving this binary, the book invites readers to explore a participatory universe where observer and observed are unified. Moreover, the practical aspects of Trika Shaivism, including meditation and shaktipat, are presented not just as spiritual tools but as methodologies for transcending duality—a perspective that resonates with quantum physics’ relational nature.

While occasionally dense in its theoretical discourse, From Shiva to Schrödinger is a commendable synthesis of philosophy and science. It offers an engaging exploration of universal truths, making it an essential read for scholars and seekers interested in bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific thought.

[Kitabi Keeda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that unites spirituality and physics.


⚛️ INSIGHT: “From Shiva to Schrödinger” by Dr Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar delves into the origins and key concepts of Trika Shaivism, presenting it as a profound philosophical tradition. It takes readers on a fascinating journey through the philosophy of Trika Shaivism and its striking parallels with modern quantum physics.
By blending ancient wisdom with modern scientific thought, the book offers fresh perspectives on consciousness and the nature of existence.

⚛️ REVIEW: The book opens with an introduction to Trika Shaivism, offering a clear explanation of its origins and philosophical foundations.
The structure is well-organized into three sections: the first delves into the essence of Trika Shaivism, the second unpacks the principles of quantum mechanics, and the third draws fascinating parallels between the two. One of the book’s most captivating aspects is its exploration of the relationship between modern quantum mechanics and ancient philosophical traditions.
While the content can feel dense for readers unfamiliar with quantum physics, it serves as a comprehensive guide for a niche audience interested in exploring these profound connections. A thoughtful read for those keen on understanding Trika Shaivism in a contemporary context.

⚛️ STRENGTHS:
1. Well-researched and insightful
2. Includes Sanskrit texts to enrich understanding
3. Rich, elevated writing style
4. Maintains a consistent pace throughout

⚛️ WEAKNESSES:
1. Complex and dense at times
2. Geared toward a niche audience
3. Not beginner-friendly or ideal for those new to nonfiction

⚛️ TARGET READERS: Ages 14+

⚛️ GENRE: Non-fiction / Religion & Science

⚛️ RATING: 3.7/4

[Renuka · Rating 5 out of 5]

In an era where the divide between spirituality and science often seems insurmountable, *From Shiva to Schrödinger* emerges as a luminous bridge — uniting ancient philosophical insights with the groundbreaking revelations of quantum physics. This book is not just a comparison between two distant domains; it is a profound journey that reshapes how we understand reality, consciousness, and the universe itself.
"From Shiva to Schrödinger" stands as a testament to the timeless nature of true knowledge, showing that the deepest truths about existence transcend time, geography, and discipline.
The book explores the teachings of "Trika Shaivism", a profound tradition of Kashmir Shaivism, renowned for its emphasis on 'non-duality', 'self-awareness', and the 'interconnectedness of all existence'. The author brilliantly demonstrates how the philosophical tenets of Trika — formulated centuries ago — remarkably anticipate the core ideas emerging from today’s most advanced studies in quantum physics. For instance, the ancient Shaivite understanding of the universe as an interconnected field of consciousness mirrors the quantum entanglement
phenomenon, where particles remain mysteriously connected across vast distances. Similarly, Trika’s emphasis on the observer’s role in shaping reality resonates astonishingly with the observer effect in quantum mechanics.
Reading this book is like standing at the confluence of two great rivers — one ancient, flowing with the melodies of sages and mystics; the other modern, surging with the exhilarating energy of scientific discovery. And at this sacred confluence, we are reminded that truth is ultimately 'one' — timeless, boundless, and beautifully whole.

[Walkwitha_book · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a fascinating exploration of how ancient spirituality and modern science are connected. It combines the teachings of Trika Shaivism, an old Indian philosophy, with the ideas of quantum physics. The book challenges readers to think beyond the divide between science and spirituality, showing that the two can actually complement each other. The author takes readers on an intellectual and spiritual journey, revealing how concepts in Trika Shaivism—such as oneness, interconnectedness, and the idea that separation is an illusion—match closely with modern scientific discoveries like quantum entanglement, superposition, and the observer effect.

Despite dealing with deep topics, the book is written in a clear and simple way, making it easy to understand even for those who are not experts in science or philosophy. It explains how ancient wisdom can help us make sense of modern scientific ideas and provides a fresh perspective on reality, consciousness, and existence. The book encourages readers to think deeply about their beliefs and view the search for truth as something that spans both science and spirituality. It uses references to old texts and modern theories to back up its ideas, making the discussion both credible and engaging. This book is perfect for anyone interested in spirituality, metaphysics, science, or how ancient and modern knowledge can work together to answer big questions about life and the universe.

[Tanishq Rajmani · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve ever wondered how the ancient wisdom of Trika Shaivism aligns with the modern marvels of quantum physics, this book will take you on an intellectual and spiritual rollercoaster. Author weaves together these two seemingly disparate worlds, revealing how ancient Indian philosophy anticipated many of the discoveries now emerging from the quantum world.

This book does more than just draw connections,it challenges you to rethink the very nature of reality. Concepts like non-duality and interconnectedness in Trika Shaivism mirror quantum phenomena such as entanglement and the observer effect, showing that both spiritual traditions and scientific discoveries might be pointing to the same underlying truths.

The author doesn’t just throw out abstract ideas; he explores them deeply, connecting ancient texts with contemporary scientific theories in a way that’s accessible, yet profound. While it can get dense at times, the payoff is worth it. Author's writing encourages a new way of viewing the universe,not as a collection of separate parts, but as a unified whole where observer and observed are one.

Whether you’re a seeker of spiritual knowledge or a science enthusiast, this book offers an enriching exploration of how the universe, consciousness, and the self are all deeply intertwined. A must-read for anyone curious about the intersection of science, philosophy, and spirituality.
Higher recommended.

[Yamini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amalgamating the concepts, learnings and teaching from Trika Shaivism with Quantum mechanics, the author is helping us venture into a territory less explored by.

I had heard a few things mentioned in the book in passible but little did I know that there is so much more beyond the mantras, and texts that we read or heard growing up. What I was excited to explore was how is the author going to correlate these 2 very different streams of topics. The journey was riveting, the Sanskrit texts cross-referencing their origins were toggling my brain cells in a binary method (iykyk), whereas the contributions of philosophers from pre-Vedic times to modern physicists left no stone unturned.

The author covers the very basics of Shaivism, from its orign in Kashmir, to stories passed over time, how it diminished over time to notions imparted the visdow of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Each ellaboration on a similar tangent in different ways.

I am finding myself in a limited capacity to share everything I learnt from this book without divulging further spoilers. However, I do have to say that this is a highly audience-specific book on a niche topic, so pick wisely.

[Kunal · Rating 5 out of 5]

“From Shiva to Schrödinger” has earned a reputation for being the bridge connecting Trika Shaivism's profound insights with scientific theories in an elegant and thoughtful way.
The author studies the core of this ancient spiritual tradition and looks for counterparts in phenomena such as quantum entanglement, superposition, and the observer paradigm.

What strikes the spectator is the capacity of the author to translate some very abstract spiritual ideas into something understandable through contemporary scientific thought.
It shows that ideas that theologians and spiritual seekers have held sacred for so long are indeed similar to discoveries that have only recently been articulated by the modern physicists.

This offers a rare combination of intellectual rigor with deep spiritual analysis.
The reader is bound to ruminate on the fundamental nature of reality, separateness as an illusory concept, and the interwoven texture of existence.

This is a highly illuminating read for any willing seeker who would like to explore the demarcation between science and spirituality.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

“From Shiva to Schrödinger” is a captivating exploration into the Confluence of Ancient Spiritual Thought and Modern Physics.
The author unravels the philosophy of Trika Shaivism and shows how its tenets anticipate quantum mechanical discoveries. Concepts of non-duality, the illusion that we are separated, and the interconnectedness of all being are explained with splendid clarity, presenting complex spiritual ideas in a digestible way.

What is striking is the extent to which entanglement, superposition, and observer effects in quantum physics are analogized to the most profound insights of the Trika tradition.
Thus, instead of being a mere intellectual exercise, the book challenges us to think about the very fabric of reality and consciousness.

If you are a spiritual seeker or someone enamored with sciences, here is a treat that provides you with a different slant on the universe.

It is one of the rare books that cross interconnected disciplines and inspire us to think more deeply about our place in the cosmos.

[Aniket · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than just an outline of spirituality and science, this book offers an enlightening journey through the philosophy of Trika Shaivism and its strange acomparable reality with modern quantum discoveries.

The author explains subjects with precision, such that a person lacking knowledge in either field can get a sense of why they are important.

The hidden implication that ancient wisdom has seen into and has aptly described is starkly stressed by the book through its comparison of non-duality with quantum superposition.
Contextualizing entanglement and observer-effect phenomena within Shaivism bestows profound bragging rights to what two separate fields can see coherently with respect to another.

This profound level of insight makes it possible to have things that energize you intellectually and enrich you spiritually. So it tests your assumptions, breeds curiosity, and distributes alternate routes for doorways to understanding the universe-mystical and scientific.

[Uma · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beauty of “From Shiva to Schrödinger” lies in the author’s skillful explanation of Trika Shaivism with the developments of quantum physics.
The ease that the author cultivates in the presentation of complex philosophical ideas renders the text equally approachable to a scientific or a spiritual audience.

Non-duality and mutual interdependence of all phenomena as taught in ancient times are compared with quantum effects such as the observer effect and superposition.
The narrative imparts the notion that in spiritual enlightenment, the seeds of modern science were very deeply sown and that this theorizing opens up a whole new vista for the reader to rethink reality and consciousness.

This book is more than a comparative study, it acts as a bridge for people seeking integration of knowledge from both fields. It questions established notions but returns with a unifying worldview.

The book is intellectually rigorous, philosophically profound, and spiritually illuminating.

[Riya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very few books have managed to treat spirituality and science together so finely as “From Shiva to Schrödinger”. The author performed an exhaustive inspection of how Trika Shaivism had anticipated certain concepts that modern physics has only recently begun to explore, such as an interconnected web binding all things and the observer's active role.

The explanations are simple but rich in detail, so readers of different disciplines may find this book useful. Non-duality wise may be correlated in a tangible way with quantum superposition, unveiling that ancient wisdom holds astounding parallels to modern thinking.

From “Shiva to Schrödinger” is indeed a wondrous journey of discovery with perspectives that are intellectually stimulating yet spiritually gratifying.
It is a connection between the realms of consciousness, philosophy, and the material world, making it an excellent ride for anyone interested.

[Pallabita · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first thing that strikes anyone about “From Shiva to Schrödinger” is the elegant and precise crafting of words.
The author somehow manages to communicate these complex notions with such clarity and simplicity that anyone from any background can find an entry point into conversations on quantum physics and its connections to ancient philosophy.

What makes the book even more compelling is that it blends intellectual musings with momentary contemplations.
The reader is invited to peruse the disclaimers and awe brought about by ideas on the illusion of separation, superpositionality, and non-dualism, all without rushing or imposing insight upon them.
There are numerous examples instilled throughout-they turn abstruse concepts into tangible knowledges.

This is a rare sort of book in which the design complements the content perfectly.

Such a book educates, enlightens, and inspires-all at once-imparting knowledge and perspectives to the reader.

[Suman · Rating 5 out of 5]

“From Shiva to Schrödinger” can be called a fantastic study on the link between ancient spiritual philosophy and modern science.

The book stands out for its clarity in explaining advanced topics without reducing them to oversimplification. From entanglement to the illusion of separateness, the writing maintains exactitude, insight, and an almost empathetic attunement to the potential beginner in these ideas.

Expounding in depth on Trika Shaivism, the author brings out how its probabilities of interconnectedness and non-duality find resonances with those emerging from quantum mechanics.
This book changes one's perspective on the view of consciousness and reality.

This is very seldom the amalgam of intellectual curiosity, spiritual insight, and scientific inquiry, and the book must be read by anyone curious for a greater view of the universe.

[Readers.wave - Karunesh Potdar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me on a journey I didn’t expect. Shiva to Schrödinger is not just about science or spirituality, it’s about how both are trying to answer the same big questions. 🧘‍♂️🔍
I felt like I was walking through ancient temples 🛕 and modern labs 🔬 at the same time, trying to understand life, the universe, and myself. 🌌
Some parts made me pause and think deeply. 🧠 It connects Indian philosophy 🕉️ with quantum physics in a way that feels surprisingly natural.
If you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond what we see, this book gives you a lot to reflect on. 📖 It’s not light reading, but it’s the kind that stays with you.

[BookishBrainShelves-Digvendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and quantum physics like no other book I’ve read.
It beautifully explains concepts like non-duality, quantum entanglement, observer effect, and the unique idea of Quantirka—making them relatable and deeply insightful.
If you’ve ever felt spirituality but struggled to explain it scientifically, this book offers the clarity you’ve been waiting for.
It’s not just informative—it’s transformational. A must-read for seekers, thinkers, and curious minds alike.

[Aparajita · Rating 2 out of 5]

Underwhelming experience. 'From Shiva to Schrödinger' promises to bridge ancient wisdom and modern science, but delivers superficial comparisons and lacks depth. 1.5/5 starsHas no base. Find it unreasonable. No logic. Total bhaktgiri. I also find the reviews provided here fishy. Use your brain.

Illogical connections and disjointed ideas make it a confusing read. Overly ambitious, this book fails to provide meaningful insights for either spiritual or scientific enthusiasts.

[Yash Raina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that blends Kashmiri Shaiva thought with quantum physics, pondering on intriguing connections between ancient wisdom and modern scientific mysteries, written in quite a lucid way.

[Nikhil Sharaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you’re a science enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, this book will leave you inspired. It unites ancient and modern wisdom in a way that feels timeless.

[William Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

The connections between the observer effect and spiritual teachings on perception are brilliant. This book has changed the way I see reality. Highly recommended!

[Ankit Dhawan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Trika Shaivism is a good subject to learn about and know its origin and motive but somehow I personally didn't like the writing of the chapters and it's not beginner friendly.

[Anagha S Setlur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Food for thought.