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Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman's Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, and Peaceful
A rallying cry for women everywhere to break free from the shackles of patriarchy and awaken their true nature, brought to life through India’s primary goddess archetypes
“ Roar Like a Goddess is a portal to the power of the three wisdom goddesses that lie within each of us. This book is a transmission that will awaken and empower you.” ―Tracee Stanley, author of Radiant Rest and Empowered Life Self-Inquiry Oracle Deck
Within you is a wellspring of strength and resilience, the ability to create and enjoy abundance, and an expansive sense of inner freedom and divinity. Yet after centuries of living in patriarchal societies, many women don’t realize how powerful they are―or how much they’ve been enculturated to keep their true nature hidden.
In Roar Like a Goddess , trailblazing Vedic spiritual teacher Acharya Shunya empowers women everywhere to step into their divine immensity and lead powerful, abundant, and wise lives through her revolutionary revisioning of ancient India’s primary goddess
• Part 1 features the Goddess Durga―A role model who vanquishes internalized oppression, Durga teaches you how to take back your full feminine power.
• Part 2 introduces the Goddess Lakshmi―Known for her beauty and generous spirit, Lakshmi guides you to cultivate unshakable inner contentment and soul-aligned abundance.
• Part 3 celebrates the Goddess Saraswati―The ultimate teacher of our deepest journey to Self, Saraswati illuminates the gifts of wisdom, peace, and inner freedom.
Throughout Roar Like a Goddess , Shunya honors her progressive Vedic roots while breaking the shackles of tradition to bring modern-day women an inclusive, feminist spirituality. Sharing classic myths, original insights, and empowering practices, Shunya offers a profound process for awakening the many faces of goddess within. “It is time for all women to come out of the closet and roar with all their spiritual power,” she writes, “because that is our true sound.”
“ Roar Like a Goddess is a portal to the power of the three wisdom goddesses that lie within each of us. This book is a transmission that will awaken and empower you.” ―Tracee Stanley, author of Radiant Rest and Empowered Life Self-Inquiry Oracle Deck
Within you is a wellspring of strength and resilience, the ability to create and enjoy abundance, and an expansive sense of inner freedom and divinity. Yet after centuries of living in patriarchal societies, many women don’t realize how powerful they are―or how much they’ve been enculturated to keep their true nature hidden.
In Roar Like a Goddess , trailblazing Vedic spiritual teacher Acharya Shunya empowers women everywhere to step into their divine immensity and lead powerful, abundant, and wise lives through her revolutionary revisioning of ancient India’s primary goddess
• Part 1 features the Goddess Durga―A role model who vanquishes internalized oppression, Durga teaches you how to take back your full feminine power.
• Part 2 introduces the Goddess Lakshmi―Known for her beauty and generous spirit, Lakshmi guides you to cultivate unshakable inner contentment and soul-aligned abundance.
• Part 3 celebrates the Goddess Saraswati―The ultimate teacher of our deepest journey to Self, Saraswati illuminates the gifts of wisdom, peace, and inner freedom.
Throughout Roar Like a Goddess , Shunya honors her progressive Vedic roots while breaking the shackles of tradition to bring modern-day women an inclusive, feminist spirituality. Sharing classic myths, original insights, and empowering practices, Shunya offers a profound process for awakening the many faces of goddess within. “It is time for all women to come out of the closet and roar with all their spiritual power,” she writes, “because that is our true sound.”
288 pages, Paperback
Published September 6, 2022
96 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
About the author
Acharya Shunya
4 books45 followersAcharya Shunya is the first female head of her spiritual lineage that traces its roots to 2,000-year-ago in India, She reinterprets and re-contextualizes ancient Vedic wisdom and dharma teachings of Advaita Vedanta (nondual teachings), Ayurveda's lifestyle wisdom and Yoga philosophy, to create a learning and awakening path for contemporary seekers, empowering people everywhere to lead spiritually fearless, fulfilled and enlightened lives. Her teachings acts like a bridge between ancient wisdom and issues faced by modern humans, today.
Acharya Shunya is the author of three bestselling books Ayurveda lifestyle Wisdom (2017), Sovereign Self (2020) and her newest book - Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman's Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, and Peaceful. In this book, Acharya Shunya honors her progressive Vedic roots while breaking the shackles of tradition to bring modern-day women, an inclusive, feminist spirituality.
Acharya Shunya is the founder of The Awakened Self Foundation - a learning, empowering and awakening platform abd Vedika Global, a 501c3 religious not-for-profit, both headquartered in Northern California.
She is a highly-rated motivational speaker, podcast host, workshop facilitator and retreat leader with 20+ years of experience as a spiritual, wellness, relationship and women's empowerment coach and group facilitator supporting individuals, groups, and organizations in amplifying their authenticity and empower them to become a better version of themselves, utilizing goddess archetypes from her culture as tools for unapologetic living. Shunya lectures on Hindu/Vedic spirituality, psychology and wellness modalities (Ayurveda and Yoga) and she lectures at prestigious conferences and at universities such as UCLA, UCSF, and Stanford.
Acharya Shunya is the author of three bestselling books Ayurveda lifestyle Wisdom (2017), Sovereign Self (2020) and her newest book - Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman's Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, and Peaceful. In this book, Acharya Shunya honors her progressive Vedic roots while breaking the shackles of tradition to bring modern-day women, an inclusive, feminist spirituality.
Acharya Shunya is the founder of The Awakened Self Foundation - a learning, empowering and awakening platform abd Vedika Global, a 501c3 religious not-for-profit, both headquartered in Northern California.
She is a highly-rated motivational speaker, podcast host, workshop facilitator and retreat leader with 20+ years of experience as a spiritual, wellness, relationship and women's empowerment coach and group facilitator supporting individuals, groups, and organizations in amplifying their authenticity and empower them to become a better version of themselves, utilizing goddess archetypes from her culture as tools for unapologetic living. Shunya lectures on Hindu/Vedic spirituality, psychology and wellness modalities (Ayurveda and Yoga) and she lectures at prestigious conferences and at universities such as UCLA, UCSF, and Stanford.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 8, 2022
Thank you, Sounds True, for the advance reading copy.
This book can be read and used by anyone in times of difficulty especially when you need to take some brave steps and tired of everything that is going on around you.
However, I would say this book can get more enjoyable for those like me who's been already familiar with the names and the idea of the goddesses mentioned. I really appreciate this concept and made me see the goddesses we have been worshipping for ages in a new light.
It's explained well on how to apply the basic ideas in which situations we might need them the most.
The writing has the voice it intends to have. It's easy and accessible.
Moreover, you will gain more new and better information about the goddesses mentioned and what aspects of life/universe they represent.
A definite must read.
This book can be read and used by anyone in times of difficulty especially when you need to take some brave steps and tired of everything that is going on around you.
However, I would say this book can get more enjoyable for those like me who's been already familiar with the names and the idea of the goddesses mentioned. I really appreciate this concept and made me see the goddesses we have been worshipping for ages in a new light.
It's explained well on how to apply the basic ideas in which situations we might need them the most.
The writing has the voice it intends to have. It's easy and accessible.
Moreover, you will gain more new and better information about the goddesses mentioned and what aspects of life/universe they represent.
A definite must read.
February 25, 2022
In Roar Like a Goddess, Acharya Shunya teaches the vedic tradition of the feminine divine as personified by the goddesses Shakti, Durga (and her aspects Parvati and Kali), Lakshmi (and her aspects Rati, Draupadi, and Santoshi Lakshmi), and Saraswati, whose name breaks down into Sanskrit SARA = ESSENCE and SWA = SELF. The life journey of women and nonbinary people can be seen as a continuum from Durga to Lakshmi to Saraswati (physical security, material success, spiritual enlightenment).
Shunya is highly critical of modern patriarchal Hinduism, and offers an empowering feminist alternative.
I admit I was hoping for more study of the vedas and less of a tour of inspirational women through history as embodiments of goddess-power, especially when those women may never have even heard of the deities in question. But that's my own pleasure in academic study speaking. Instead, I found myself holding a book asking female and nonbinary identifying humans to challenge their assumptions about their own limitations and dreams, and about how they are pursuing the four goals of the vedic way of life. These are material success, pleasure, pursuit of dharma, and mokhsha (freedom from spiritual ignorance).
Hinduism and the Vedas have no real concept of sin or going to hell like Christianity does. The original Vedas were incredibly sex-positive for women and men, as long as no one got hurt. The real point is that your actions come back to you, as in, you reap what you sow, therefore people should act justly and do good in the world because it makes it a better place. It's very simple, at least until prejudice (race, class/caste, ,gender, etc.) get involved.
I'm really glad I read this, even though/especially because it challenged me to rethink the areas of my life where I'm strong vs weak. I spent years of meditation training focused at the Saraswati end of the feminine divine continuum; I have spent comparatively little time working through Durga and Lakshmi areas of self-development, but I've never read (and there's a lot that I've never read) anything laying out this spectrum so clearly.
ARC
Shunya is highly critical of modern patriarchal Hinduism, and offers an empowering feminist alternative.
I admit I was hoping for more study of the vedas and less of a tour of inspirational women through history as embodiments of goddess-power, especially when those women may never have even heard of the deities in question. But that's my own pleasure in academic study speaking. Instead, I found myself holding a book asking female and nonbinary identifying humans to challenge their assumptions about their own limitations and dreams, and about how they are pursuing the four goals of the vedic way of life. These are material success, pleasure, pursuit of dharma, and mokhsha (freedom from spiritual ignorance).
Hinduism and the Vedas have no real concept of sin or going to hell like Christianity does. The original Vedas were incredibly sex-positive for women and men, as long as no one got hurt. The real point is that your actions come back to you, as in, you reap what you sow, therefore people should act justly and do good in the world because it makes it a better place. It's very simple, at least until prejudice (race, class/caste, ,gender, etc.) get involved.
I'm really glad I read this, even though/especially because it challenged me to rethink the areas of my life where I'm strong vs weak. I spent years of meditation training focused at the Saraswati end of the feminine divine continuum; I have spent comparatively little time working through Durga and Lakshmi areas of self-development, but I've never read (and there's a lot that I've never read) anything laying out this spectrum so clearly.
ARC
December 8, 2025
At first, as I was reading this book, I wasn't into it, but thought I should be more patient, and even if it wasn't for me, it would still be an introduction to Indian goddess myths from a feminist perspective. However, after reading to page 175, I am going to stop. I don't recommend this book due to its false marketing and lack of intersectional feminist thinking.
How can you brand a book as "inclusive, feminist spirituality" by a "trailblazing" Vedic teacher and give us nothing but pop culture feminism? Dear publishers, stop overcompensating with marketing. The book blurb should not be better than the book, the book blurb should not diverge from the actual book. I would have given this read a much milder rating if it hadn't been so proudly using the word feminist while not showing it anywhere.
On pg 169 mind you, this reads:
"To my great shock, I found 'toppled goddesses' in Western culture. The authors of a 2021 article titles '23 Ways Women Still Aren't Equal to Men' provide the evidence that women are still shouldering more of the household burden than their male partners... "
How can you market your book as feminist and then say, more than halfway through the book, that you are shocked by the inequity between men and women?
I had been aware that the book was superficial in its outlook on gender, but this really was the last straw. While I enjoyed the retellings of popular myths (Shakti as Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati), the conclusions did not leave me convinced.
Just because you say something is feminist does not make it so.
It would have been a more credible approach to acknowledge the patriarchal messages in these myths, and then re-interpret them from an equity lens. Instead, she retells the story and then simply says self-immolation is an act of courage because it is a symbolic act. I would have expected a conversation around cultural practices around that, but it's not mentioned. It's neatly dropped and we are moving on.
I also felt frustrated with what felt like reading a first draft:
"If you are one of those women who feel ashamed at seeking out pleasureful activities or sexual joys, stop that!"
I actually paid money for this physical copy book to read, "just stop that, silly!!"
The author's stance is that the Vedas, oldest scriptures of Hinduism, "gift us forward-thinking, holistic guidance on how to be empowered and live harmoniously despite differences."
I am unable to believe the author's claims because of their biases to present Hinduism in the best possible light, while throwing in digs at everything else.
On pg. 145, the author shares garudhammas from Buddhism as well as quotes from Christian scriptures that both show how women were considered less than to men, and then follows that up with how "Hinduism, we see the opposite forces at work."
It is disingenuous, to say the least. The author does not bring up issues surrounding caste, poverty, femicide, housing/food insecurity. The author does spend time around sexual assault, but it's one-note advice of "speak up!" that puts onus on women to "roar like a goddess" rather than question the structure that has women needing to roar.
The author uses these terms, feminism, patriarchy, but has no intimate understanding of these powerful words. While the author lambasts the patriarchy, I don't think I ever saw her say the patriarchy must be dismantled. Instead, it's more about how to use feminism to get her own piece of the pie under the current system. It's not progressive at all.
If you are interested in Indian goddesses, I would not recommend this. If you identify as a feminist, definitely don't read this.
How can you brand a book as "inclusive, feminist spirituality" by a "trailblazing" Vedic teacher and give us nothing but pop culture feminism? Dear publishers, stop overcompensating with marketing. The book blurb should not be better than the book, the book blurb should not diverge from the actual book. I would have given this read a much milder rating if it hadn't been so proudly using the word feminist while not showing it anywhere.
On pg 169 mind you, this reads:
"To my great shock, I found 'toppled goddesses' in Western culture. The authors of a 2021 article titles '23 Ways Women Still Aren't Equal to Men' provide the evidence that women are still shouldering more of the household burden than their male partners... "
How can you market your book as feminist and then say, more than halfway through the book, that you are shocked by the inequity between men and women?
I had been aware that the book was superficial in its outlook on gender, but this really was the last straw. While I enjoyed the retellings of popular myths (Shakti as Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati), the conclusions did not leave me convinced.
Just because you say something is feminist does not make it so.
It would have been a more credible approach to acknowledge the patriarchal messages in these myths, and then re-interpret them from an equity lens. Instead, she retells the story and then simply says self-immolation is an act of courage because it is a symbolic act. I would have expected a conversation around cultural practices around that, but it's not mentioned. It's neatly dropped and we are moving on.
I also felt frustrated with what felt like reading a first draft:
"If you are one of those women who feel ashamed at seeking out pleasureful activities or sexual joys, stop that!"
I actually paid money for this physical copy book to read, "just stop that, silly!!"
The author's stance is that the Vedas, oldest scriptures of Hinduism, "gift us forward-thinking, holistic guidance on how to be empowered and live harmoniously despite differences."
I am unable to believe the author's claims because of their biases to present Hinduism in the best possible light, while throwing in digs at everything else.
On pg. 145, the author shares garudhammas from Buddhism as well as quotes from Christian scriptures that both show how women were considered less than to men, and then follows that up with how "Hinduism, we see the opposite forces at work."
It is disingenuous, to say the least. The author does not bring up issues surrounding caste, poverty, femicide, housing/food insecurity. The author does spend time around sexual assault, but it's one-note advice of "speak up!" that puts onus on women to "roar like a goddess" rather than question the structure that has women needing to roar.
The author uses these terms, feminism, patriarchy, but has no intimate understanding of these powerful words. While the author lambasts the patriarchy, I don't think I ever saw her say the patriarchy must be dismantled. Instead, it's more about how to use feminism to get her own piece of the pie under the current system. It's not progressive at all.
If you are interested in Indian goddesses, I would not recommend this. If you identify as a feminist, definitely don't read this.
August 25, 2025
Dnf at 38%
I will say I am disappointed in this book. I was expecting a book that would be empowering in a more self-help way.
Instead, I feel like I’m reading the passages of a holy book. I don’t follow any religion so it is hard for me to relate and feel inspired by these stories, especially when they make it sound like they actually happened.
I knew that when I picked up this book there would be Hinduism teachings based on the cover, but I was not expecting that every single page would be a story about something that did not happen and try to be inspired by it. I also thought, potentially it would be more spiritual in the sense of less emphasis on the do’s and don’t from a specific religion.
I’m sure that for someone who practices Hinduism this will very inspirational, but to me I just felt like I was reading fantasy stories and trying to apply that into real life. And I simply couldn’t.
I will say I am disappointed in this book. I was expecting a book that would be empowering in a more self-help way.
Instead, I feel like I’m reading the passages of a holy book. I don’t follow any religion so it is hard for me to relate and feel inspired by these stories, especially when they make it sound like they actually happened.
I knew that when I picked up this book there would be Hinduism teachings based on the cover, but I was not expecting that every single page would be a story about something that did not happen and try to be inspired by it. I also thought, potentially it would be more spiritual in the sense of less emphasis on the do’s and don’t from a specific religion.
I’m sure that for someone who practices Hinduism this will very inspirational, but to me I just felt like I was reading fantasy stories and trying to apply that into real life. And I simply couldn’t.
October 17, 2024
I found the book a bit dull and repetitive. Many of the ideas and examples felt familiar, as they’ve been discussed extensively in other works (I read a lot like this in university). However, there were a couple of point of views that were new to me, especially the idea that conscious anger can be useful and harnessed for personal growth. I did feel bored at times, maybe because I’ve already explored similar themes in other books and articles.
I would recommend reading this book slowly, chapter by chapter.
For those new to the themes of goddess energies and their connection to feminism, it may be more engaging and enlightening.
I would recommend reading this book slowly, chapter by chapter.
For those new to the themes of goddess energies and their connection to feminism, it may be more engaging and enlightening.
August 25, 2022
ROAR LIKE A GODDESS by Acharya Shunya is remarkable. Intelligent and engaging, this book is empowering and encouraging, like few books I have ever read. Beautifully written and illustrated, Shunya utilizes stories with astute grace, thus informing, educating, and motivating me to look at our world, societies, and individuals with a fresh perspective. Ultimately, adopting her practices and using them in our real lives frees every one of us from damaging, demeaning, and limiting roles. I imagine that we will thus go on to create, live, and enjoy lives with greater fullness, flexibility, and pleasure. I received a copy of this book and these opinions are my own, unbiased thoughts.
August 24, 2022
This book is a real gem. I could feel Shunyaji speaking from her heart as she revealed her sacred inspirations and personal stories. There is so much power in understanding the true purpose of these goddesses in our lives. The book has practical applications and contemplations for one that is seeking the Divine Feminine within. I truly appreciate her comments on accepting that we are work in progress and that it is possible to reach the state of roaring like a goddess. I could feel myself riding the lion!
August 9, 2022
Another masterpiece by Acharya Shunya ! I enjoyed reding it and will read it again and again. Shunyaji wrote this book straight from the heart relaying the Goddess messages in a clear and simple way. Her words are candid and her explanations and stories of the Hindu Goddesses are simply beautiful. This is indeed a guide to awaken Shakti, become empowered and live peaceful, prosperous without shame. Thank you Acharya Shunya!
July 5, 2022
If you’ve been curious about the exotic and powerful Hindu Shakti Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati, you’ve come to the right place. Acharya Shunya masterfully retells their myths and gives us original insights on the symbolic significance of these Divine Feminine archetypes and places their importance in a modern context.
Acharya Shunya reinterprets and delves deep into these three Hindu Goddesses’ unique strengths and attributes, in an intriguing and captivating way, to empower us. She offers sound practical advice and deeper contemplative spiritual knowledge from the ancient Hindu wisdom scriptures. Shunya’s commentary on the Goddesses current relevance is thoughtful, insightful and hopefully, action-provoking. The Goddess self-contemplations and practices (at the end of the chapters) are helpful and provocative. The cover and interior Illustrations by Ekabhumi Charles Ellik are powerful and stunning.
ROAR LIKE A GODDESS is an urgent call for women to reclaim and embody their self-respect and personal boundaries. Self respect is the key and these Goddess archetypes help with this reclamation by not accepting anything less, unapologetically.
Acharya Shunya reinterprets and delves deep into these three Hindu Goddesses’ unique strengths and attributes, in an intriguing and captivating way, to empower us. She offers sound practical advice and deeper contemplative spiritual knowledge from the ancient Hindu wisdom scriptures. Shunya’s commentary on the Goddesses current relevance is thoughtful, insightful and hopefully, action-provoking. The Goddess self-contemplations and practices (at the end of the chapters) are helpful and provocative. The cover and interior Illustrations by Ekabhumi Charles Ellik are powerful and stunning.
ROAR LIKE A GODDESS is an urgent call for women to reclaim and embody their self-respect and personal boundaries. Self respect is the key and these Goddess archetypes help with this reclamation by not accepting anything less, unapologetically.
July 5, 2022
I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to read and help edit a very early version of this book, and have since received and read the advance copy. What this book has done for me, through its stories, teachings, meditations, and integration exercises, is to be profoundly changed for the better, because now I see, understand, and connect with my relationships, my work, my culture, and my self through
the lens of the Divine Feminine, which is not just a beautiful, loving and compassionate presence, but an ever-inspiring, naturally powerful force within us all, no matter the body or circumstances we inhabit. This book has helped me channel my inner Durga when I’ve needed to set boundaries and assert my needs, connect with my inner Lakshmi to access indescribable joy and contentment, besides current circumstances being challenging, and I am really just beginning to understand how connecting with my inner Saraswati is an infinite source of empowerment, inspiration, creativity and personal growth. This book, like Acharya Shunya’s other books, is written in her unique speaking style. English is her second language, and I think this is part of her effectiveness, because the twists she adds to her English phrasing are often arresting and really make you think twice. If you watch any of her many videos on YouTube or listen to her podcast, and then re-watch, or re-listen, you’ll discover that each time, you’ll pick up some new gem of wisdom you didn’t perceive the 1st time around (or the 2nd or 3rd…) This is because, in her lineage, and through her own gift for transmitting knowledge, each phrase, each word, is ripe with layers of meaning that unfold over time, with repetition. This is a book to read again and again, to unlock wisdom and peace for life.
the lens of the Divine Feminine, which is not just a beautiful, loving and compassionate presence, but an ever-inspiring, naturally powerful force within us all, no matter the body or circumstances we inhabit. This book has helped me channel my inner Durga when I’ve needed to set boundaries and assert my needs, connect with my inner Lakshmi to access indescribable joy and contentment, besides current circumstances being challenging, and I am really just beginning to understand how connecting with my inner Saraswati is an infinite source of empowerment, inspiration, creativity and personal growth. This book, like Acharya Shunya’s other books, is written in her unique speaking style. English is her second language, and I think this is part of her effectiveness, because the twists she adds to her English phrasing are often arresting and really make you think twice. If you watch any of her many videos on YouTube or listen to her podcast, and then re-watch, or re-listen, you’ll discover that each time, you’ll pick up some new gem of wisdom you didn’t perceive the 1st time around (or the 2nd or 3rd…) This is because, in her lineage, and through her own gift for transmitting knowledge, each phrase, each word, is ripe with layers of meaning that unfold over time, with repetition. This is a book to read again and again, to unlock wisdom and peace for life.
September 7, 2022
I read a very early copy of Roar Like a Goddess and found myself in a paradigm shift of thinking and being. So much so that I asked to be able to purchase a case of the book so I could give it to all the women I know. This book is incredibly amazing. Acharya Shunya tells the stories of the three primary goddesses in the Vedic/Hindu pantheon, Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati - all avatars of the one feminine Shakti power. Shunya tells their stories from a matriarchal point of view and shows modern day examples of each goddess and explains to us how we can embody these archetypes to claim back our power in the face of a patriarchal world.
November 29, 2022
I regard Acharya Shunya’s Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman’s Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, & Peaceful to be a masterpiece. It is full of inspiration for all of us (yes, including men) who seek to discover our inner strength, courage, love (for both ourselves and others), and kindness in a world which often throws intolerance, unkindness, misogyny, racism, ignorance, and unjustified hatred our way. A main theme in the book is that we can show kindness to ourselves and the world, while insisting that our boundaries not be violated.
Acharya Shunya is a renowned Vedic and Ayurvedic scholar and teacher. (The word ‘Acharya’ roughly translates to teacher). I discovered her from her book Sovereign Self, where I was surprised to learn that many concepts such as karma, dharma, meditation, mindfulness, etc. were developed in India prior to Buddhism. These concepts were discussed in the Vedas, which are a series of writings from ancient India. The Vedas, while incorporated into the Hindu religions, influenced all the major religions that came out of India.
Shunya reveals how the Vedic writers taught that Shakti is the powerful force that pervades the universe. It is largely regarded as a feminine creative force. It can be regarded as a universal benevolent consciousness (which is how I largely view it).
In this book, Shunya focuses on three aspects of Shakti: Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. These three forces are allegorically referred to as goddesses (but you do not have to take that literally). These three goddesses are not only regarded as ‘out there’; rather they reside within all of us, and are ready to be accessed in our daily lives. As Shunya writes “Your true Self is a direct portal to the goddess dimension of this universe.” Because of this, we do not have to look outward to the external world to find approval and acceptance; we can find these by connecting to our true powerful selves.
There are many legends about these goddesses in the writings, which are known as puranas. Many of these legends include how the goddesses interact with gods (such as Brahma). Drawing on her vast knowledge of them, but also giving her own interpretations, Shunya ingeniously takes some of these legends to illustrate how women can find inner peace while refusing to submit to injustice. Patriarchy does not only harm women by its expectations about how women are supposed to behave, it also bestows unfair expectations about what it deems appropriate for men, and that is harmful to men as well.
Shunya expertly displays how these negative external signals influence women in ways that are harmful to their self-image. This can lead to self-hatred and self-rejection. She draws on the legends of how the three above-mentioned goddesses were confronted with hostile external forces, but they refused to let these forces drag them down. She then shows us all how we can find the goddess power that resides in us all to learn how to love ourselves and others, even in the face of external hostility. We can practice principles of dharma and peacefulness, even if there are times when we have to go to battle with hostile external forces. Shunya brings it down to earth by discussing how this happened to her personally, and the way in which she climbed out of this rabbit hole to become the great teacher that she is now.
I do, however, have one minor criticism of this book, which I feel compelled to mention (due to my commitment to Dharma, a commitment that has been strengthened by my exposure to Acharya Shunya). Shunya mentions some politicians in this book, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), Hilary Clinton, and Donald Trump. She briefly indicates that AOC and Clinton have been victims of some misogynists, while seeming to imply (without specifically stating) that Donald Trump supporters are misogynists.
While nobody (AOC and Clinton included of course) should be victims of misogyny, I consider these two politicians to have done and said some very non-Dharmic things, and I do not view them to be very good role models for women. Also, there are some very strong women who support Trump, and their goddess voices matter as well. While I cannot say if Trump personally is a misogynist, I know that he did establish the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, which is designed to help empower women. (I am not saying that Trump has not engaged in some non-Dharmic behavior.) Also, I have noticed that there are groups that help support women alleging sexual harassment, but these groups are often silent when the alleged harassers are in the ‘preferred’ political party. So, while I will always applaud standing up for justice, when we wade into the waters of partisan politics, there are some issues for which it can be very easily established that there is moral ambiguity.
This minor criticism notwithstanding, I think that Acharya Shunya’s Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman’s Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, & Peaceful is a true classic. Who should read it? Anyone who want to 1) make the world a more Dharmic place, 2) stand up for justice, 3) learn how to discover the treasure of goddess power that lies inside our Self, 4) learn how to stop the unhelpful practice of internalizing the world’s negative messages, and 5) learn about the amazing contributions of the ancient Vedas.
I find this book to be very personally inspirational. Since I discovered Acharya Shunya and the branch of Vedic knowledge known as Advaita Vedanta, I have enrolled in several of her online courses. I am currently enrolled in The Vedic Way, which is ongoing. I love interacting with Shunya and other members of her community. My exposure to Advaita Vedanta has been life-changing, and I will continue to pursue the spiritual journey that it encourages.
Acharya Shunya is a renowned Vedic and Ayurvedic scholar and teacher. (The word ‘Acharya’ roughly translates to teacher). I discovered her from her book Sovereign Self, where I was surprised to learn that many concepts such as karma, dharma, meditation, mindfulness, etc. were developed in India prior to Buddhism. These concepts were discussed in the Vedas, which are a series of writings from ancient India. The Vedas, while incorporated into the Hindu religions, influenced all the major religions that came out of India.
Shunya reveals how the Vedic writers taught that Shakti is the powerful force that pervades the universe. It is largely regarded as a feminine creative force. It can be regarded as a universal benevolent consciousness (which is how I largely view it).
In this book, Shunya focuses on three aspects of Shakti: Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. These three forces are allegorically referred to as goddesses (but you do not have to take that literally). These three goddesses are not only regarded as ‘out there’; rather they reside within all of us, and are ready to be accessed in our daily lives. As Shunya writes “Your true Self is a direct portal to the goddess dimension of this universe.” Because of this, we do not have to look outward to the external world to find approval and acceptance; we can find these by connecting to our true powerful selves.
There are many legends about these goddesses in the writings, which are known as puranas. Many of these legends include how the goddesses interact with gods (such as Brahma). Drawing on her vast knowledge of them, but also giving her own interpretations, Shunya ingeniously takes some of these legends to illustrate how women can find inner peace while refusing to submit to injustice. Patriarchy does not only harm women by its expectations about how women are supposed to behave, it also bestows unfair expectations about what it deems appropriate for men, and that is harmful to men as well.
Shunya expertly displays how these negative external signals influence women in ways that are harmful to their self-image. This can lead to self-hatred and self-rejection. She draws on the legends of how the three above-mentioned goddesses were confronted with hostile external forces, but they refused to let these forces drag them down. She then shows us all how we can find the goddess power that resides in us all to learn how to love ourselves and others, even in the face of external hostility. We can practice principles of dharma and peacefulness, even if there are times when we have to go to battle with hostile external forces. Shunya brings it down to earth by discussing how this happened to her personally, and the way in which she climbed out of this rabbit hole to become the great teacher that she is now.
I do, however, have one minor criticism of this book, which I feel compelled to mention (due to my commitment to Dharma, a commitment that has been strengthened by my exposure to Acharya Shunya). Shunya mentions some politicians in this book, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), Hilary Clinton, and Donald Trump. She briefly indicates that AOC and Clinton have been victims of some misogynists, while seeming to imply (without specifically stating) that Donald Trump supporters are misogynists.
While nobody (AOC and Clinton included of course) should be victims of misogyny, I consider these two politicians to have done and said some very non-Dharmic things, and I do not view them to be very good role models for women. Also, there are some very strong women who support Trump, and their goddess voices matter as well. While I cannot say if Trump personally is a misogynist, I know that he did establish the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, which is designed to help empower women. (I am not saying that Trump has not engaged in some non-Dharmic behavior.) Also, I have noticed that there are groups that help support women alleging sexual harassment, but these groups are often silent when the alleged harassers are in the ‘preferred’ political party. So, while I will always applaud standing up for justice, when we wade into the waters of partisan politics, there are some issues for which it can be very easily established that there is moral ambiguity.
This minor criticism notwithstanding, I think that Acharya Shunya’s Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman’s Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, & Peaceful is a true classic. Who should read it? Anyone who want to 1) make the world a more Dharmic place, 2) stand up for justice, 3) learn how to discover the treasure of goddess power that lies inside our Self, 4) learn how to stop the unhelpful practice of internalizing the world’s negative messages, and 5) learn about the amazing contributions of the ancient Vedas.
I find this book to be very personally inspirational. Since I discovered Acharya Shunya and the branch of Vedic knowledge known as Advaita Vedanta, I have enrolled in several of her online courses. I am currently enrolled in The Vedic Way, which is ongoing. I love interacting with Shunya and other members of her community. My exposure to Advaita Vedanta has been life-changing, and I will continue to pursue the spiritual journey that it encourages.
Read
October 21, 2024Well, I tried. I was interested in the precepts Shunya discusses in this book, but I didn't warm to her writing style. It took me over a month to get through four chapters, and when I did consider picking up the book to read some more, I found myself making excuses not to read or dreading it slightly. In addition to her writing style, there was something off-putting to me about the book's tone. So, when it comes down to it - it just wasn't for me.
January 9, 2023
Thank you to the author, Sounds True, and NetGalley for an ARC - however, I ended up buying the audio version with my own money and listening to it from the beginning. And I am so glad I did. While the information is the same, listening to Acharya Shunya was like sitting at the feet of a warm, wise teacher. Everything felt more immersive and personal. I particularly recommend listing to the audio to hear the music and chanting.
The book is a combination of stories - mythological and personal, followed by teachings from those stories. The insights are filtered through the teachings of gurus through the ages and yet are immediately applicable today. Acharya Shunya both respects her lineage and is not afraid to reinterpret texts when needed. There is both a reverence for the past and a fearlessness to blaze her own trail in her teachings. Listening to her tell the stories she grew up hearing from her elders feels like a sacred privilege. And her vulnerability in sharing her own stories made listening to the book an honor.
It can be difficult to set aside our own cultural or religious context to hear what is actually being said. It is entirely too easy to interpret teachings through the lens of what we are used to. For example, I was challenged to rethink my attitude towards prosperity. Having a strong aversion to the "prosperity gospel" in Christianity, I had an immediate, visceral reaction to the term. I had to set aside what I thought was being said and listen to what the author was actually teaching. This stretched me in new and challenging ways. I appreciate the experience while acknowledging it left me sore.
While I am giving Roar Like a Goddess five stars, I feel like I only scratched the surface of what it has to offer and believe my appreciation of the book will only deepen over time, through repeated readings.
The book is a combination of stories - mythological and personal, followed by teachings from those stories. The insights are filtered through the teachings of gurus through the ages and yet are immediately applicable today. Acharya Shunya both respects her lineage and is not afraid to reinterpret texts when needed. There is both a reverence for the past and a fearlessness to blaze her own trail in her teachings. Listening to her tell the stories she grew up hearing from her elders feels like a sacred privilege. And her vulnerability in sharing her own stories made listening to the book an honor.
It can be difficult to set aside our own cultural or religious context to hear what is actually being said. It is entirely too easy to interpret teachings through the lens of what we are used to. For example, I was challenged to rethink my attitude towards prosperity. Having a strong aversion to the "prosperity gospel" in Christianity, I had an immediate, visceral reaction to the term. I had to set aside what I thought was being said and listen to what the author was actually teaching. This stretched me in new and challenging ways. I appreciate the experience while acknowledging it left me sore.
While I am giving Roar Like a Goddess five stars, I feel like I only scratched the surface of what it has to offer and believe my appreciation of the book will only deepen over time, through repeated readings.
June 11, 2023
Own Your Inner Goddess(es)
I have been a student of writings about the goddess, both ancient and contemporary, for decades, so I was intrigued when I saw this book at a book site. I'm glad I picked it up. So much food for thought here and so many genuine nuggets of wisdom. The author is a well-spoken student of the Hindu religion and Vedic traditions. She recasts ancient Indian goddesses, the Divine Feminine, freeing them from the shackles put on them by millennia of patriarchy and envisioning them as manifestations already within us that can assist us (women and others!) to come into our own power, meaningful abundance, genuine contentment, and ultimately, resonating wisdom and true peace. Doing so all without apology… and in fact, to claim them with a roar! She explores these concepts through three Indian goddesses—Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati—who embody them as re-interpreted by the author. Each goddess is discussed in depth, with multiple chapters exploring her strengths and abilities so we can better understand them within ourselves. The book is full of stories, quotes, meditations, and other activities to help you fully appreciate their Divine female energy and how to connect to it as something that is already a part of you, even if hidden. Unlike many unapologetically feminist books—and this one certainly is—you don't get a sense that the author blames individual men for institutionalized gender oppression. Instead, she sees it as insidious in nature because it has simply been enshrined and codified through every aspect of multiple societies. If you want to be challenged and empowered, read this book! Highly recommended!
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I have been a student of writings about the goddess, both ancient and contemporary, for decades, so I was intrigued when I saw this book at a book site. I'm glad I picked it up. So much food for thought here and so many genuine nuggets of wisdom. The author is a well-spoken student of the Hindu religion and Vedic traditions. She recasts ancient Indian goddesses, the Divine Feminine, freeing them from the shackles put on them by millennia of patriarchy and envisioning them as manifestations already within us that can assist us (women and others!) to come into our own power, meaningful abundance, genuine contentment, and ultimately, resonating wisdom and true peace. Doing so all without apology… and in fact, to claim them with a roar! She explores these concepts through three Indian goddesses—Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati—who embody them as re-interpreted by the author. Each goddess is discussed in depth, with multiple chapters exploring her strengths and abilities so we can better understand them within ourselves. The book is full of stories, quotes, meditations, and other activities to help you fully appreciate their Divine female energy and how to connect to it as something that is already a part of you, even if hidden. Unlike many unapologetically feminist books—and this one certainly is—you don't get a sense that the author blames individual men for institutionalized gender oppression. Instead, she sees it as insidious in nature because it has simply been enshrined and codified through every aspect of multiple societies. If you want to be challenged and empowered, read this book! Highly recommended!
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
October 27, 2022
Roar Like A Goddess by Acharya Shunya
275 Pages
Publisher: Sounds True
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Nonfiction, Religion, Spirituality, Goddess, Empowerment
The book addresses aspects of three Goddesses – Durga to vanquish oppression and take back your feminine power, Lakshmi to be content and find soul abundance, and Sarawati with gifts of wisdom, peace, and inner freedom. It is divided into the following.
Part I: Durga
The Search for the Hidden Goddess
Roar Like a Goddess When Accosted Sexually
The Goddess Path To Unconditional Self Respect
Establish Boundaries to Live Royally Like Durga
Defy Stereotypes to Live Like a Goddess
Part II: Lakshmi
Goddess Lakshmi and Her Beautiful Symbolism
The Greatest Wealth Comes From Valuing Yourself
The Four Goals of Life and Goddess Lakshmi
The Value of Discontentment in a Goddess’s Life
Lakshmi Shows the Path to Generosity
Part III: Saraswati
Saraswati’s Mythology and Awakening Insights
The Goddess Path of Discernment and Sovereignty
Saraswati Says Wake Up and Face Your Trauma
Goddesses Don’t Harbor Irrational Feminine Guilt
Roar Alongside Your Goddess Tribe
This book is an excellent resource to help women get in touch with their feminine power. In today’s time, patriarchy drives down women’s power. The author writes in an easy to read and understand style. Each chapter has areas of contemplation. If you are looking for a way to tap into your inner wisdom and power, you will enjoy this book.
275 Pages
Publisher: Sounds True
Release Date: September 6, 2022
Nonfiction, Religion, Spirituality, Goddess, Empowerment
The book addresses aspects of three Goddesses – Durga to vanquish oppression and take back your feminine power, Lakshmi to be content and find soul abundance, and Sarawati with gifts of wisdom, peace, and inner freedom. It is divided into the following.
Part I: Durga
The Search for the Hidden Goddess
Roar Like a Goddess When Accosted Sexually
The Goddess Path To Unconditional Self Respect
Establish Boundaries to Live Royally Like Durga
Defy Stereotypes to Live Like a Goddess
Part II: Lakshmi
Goddess Lakshmi and Her Beautiful Symbolism
The Greatest Wealth Comes From Valuing Yourself
The Four Goals of Life and Goddess Lakshmi
The Value of Discontentment in a Goddess’s Life
Lakshmi Shows the Path to Generosity
Part III: Saraswati
Saraswati’s Mythology and Awakening Insights
The Goddess Path of Discernment and Sovereignty
Saraswati Says Wake Up and Face Your Trauma
Goddesses Don’t Harbor Irrational Feminine Guilt
Roar Alongside Your Goddess Tribe
This book is an excellent resource to help women get in touch with their feminine power. In today’s time, patriarchy drives down women’s power. The author writes in an easy to read and understand style. Each chapter has areas of contemplation. If you are looking for a way to tap into your inner wisdom and power, you will enjoy this book.
October 6, 2022
I couldn't be happier to have Roar Like A Goddess on my shelf to turn to again and again. I'm a yoga instructor who also works with organizations centered around women's empowerment, and this book is a unique, fascinating take on how ancient traditions can be adapted for modern living. Acharya Shunya weaves Hindu legends with feminist issues, including hypermodern issues like MeToo, to show how legends and archetypes can be not only illustrative examples for modern living, but how our lives are inextricably tied to the stories of old. I found her teachings around Durga’s lessons of finding one’s voice and what we can learn from Lakshmi about unapologetic pursuit of pleasure and wealth particularly powerful.
I love that you can read the book from cover to cover, but also use it as a resource to flip back and forth from important chapters. I can't recommend this resource enough to yoga teachers or anyone sharing Vedic traditions — and just for anyone interested in the Divine Feminine and goddess archetypes. Thank you, Acharya Shunya!
I love that you can read the book from cover to cover, but also use it as a resource to flip back and forth from important chapters. I can't recommend this resource enough to yoga teachers or anyone sharing Vedic traditions — and just for anyone interested in the Divine Feminine and goddess archetypes. Thank you, Acharya Shunya!
July 13, 2023
Unapologetic
Refreshing
Thought provoking
Profound
Sense of agency
Meditative
The book Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman’s Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous & Peaceful by Acharya Shunya awakens your soul, widening your perspective on your inner strength and beauty.
The book is heavily dependent on the Hindu Vedas and discusses the Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati and practices, at great length. but I feel even if you are not from that background you can still benefit from the overall message and thiat is believe in a higher energy to help you find strength .
This book really helps women realize their importance pull apart from misogyny and patriarchy
I really appreciated the recitations of hymns Sanskrit and then done in an english translate to throughly understand.
I really enjoyed the book.
I give it a 4/5. It was informative, calming and provided strength as a woman not only to oneself but to the entire sisterhood and also those who are marginalized, nonbinary, LGBTQ community
October 20, 2022
This book is changing my life forever, absolutely !
Acharya Shunya's writings come from her own experiences, from an open and clear mind and from the Vedic Wisdom and Ancient Tradition, translated into this powerful guide for every human being who wish to live the life we are meant to live.
I love the way how she unfolds the process of reclaiming our true nature as the Goddess, our Shakti inborn Essence. Reflections and contemplations, countless examples and an encouraging writer make this book unique and one of a kind ! To cherish and to lean on.
Acharya Shunya's writings come from her own experiences, from an open and clear mind and from the Vedic Wisdom and Ancient Tradition, translated into this powerful guide for every human being who wish to live the life we are meant to live.
I love the way how she unfolds the process of reclaiming our true nature as the Goddess, our Shakti inborn Essence. Reflections and contemplations, countless examples and an encouraging writer make this book unique and one of a kind ! To cherish and to lean on.
October 6, 2022
I appreciate how the author writes in a conversational tone that is easy to absorb. She states that this book is created to inspire positive change and hope for all women and suppressed beings.
It is a book that shows that we have a choice in making our own balanced and healthy life by determining our own goals.
It is a book that shows that we have a choice in making our own balanced and healthy life by determining our own goals.
October 12, 2022
This is an excellent book about the need for women to find their inner goddess and stand proud of who they are.
My Review
My Review
December 18, 2022
(Audio) I enjoyed this book; the authors voice is soothing and lovely. I think the overall message and writing will be absolutely a game changer for some folks who read/listen. I found something profound in here for myself and hope others will too.
December 30, 2022
This is one of my TOP MUST READS. I came across your book through a podcast with you and Tami Simon, Sounds True (2022) Your eloquent voice and your story inspired me so much. I wanted more, so I listened to your audio book. Thank you Acharya Shunya 🙏 ☺️
much love,
heide
much love,
heide
August 14, 2023
I loved it! I loved reading about the three goddesses and I’m excited to look up the authors online community and start to ROAR! I may also look into having her as a guest on my podcast since my listeners would love this spiritual way of dismantling the patriarchy. Well done 💙
September 9, 2023
A must read for all women or people for that matter. This was a very empowering book that just further affirmed my views that the patriarchy is toxic and even extends to women putting other women down. I didn't find it preachy at all; it just provided a great guide for self growth.
October 14, 2023
I read this book every morning in the metro and it makes me feel so empowered ! Even the instances given here feel quite relatable and I am learning to be kind to myself and draw boundaries!
Thanks to this book.
Thanks to this book.
June 4, 2025
Sometimes you uncover a book you didn't realize you were looking for until you're half way through. I thought I wanted mythological allegories. I loved the journaling prompts, the deep contemplations, the feminism with joy. Best enjoyed with a well made chai and samosas
January 11, 2023
Beautiful look at how to embody the different characteristics of goddesses into your life to live the life you want to fully live.
October 6, 2023
Roaring against the patriarchy forever because of this beautiful book. Self love & empowerment themes delivered with goddesses and the authors experience.
January 15, 2024
Another transformative book for me! It was really inspiring and empowering, I want to give it to every woman in my life!
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