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BHAGAVAD GITA: THE SONG OF GOD
The sacred Bhagavad Gita is much more than an epic for Hindus worldwide; in fact, it is the ultimate universal guide to a life of peace and fulfilment. This song of God not only provides a deeply philosophical understanding of the world, or Brahma Vidya, but it also describes clear-cut techniques to implement spiritual precepts in everyday life. This is why it is also called Yog Shastra, which includes methodologies—karm yog, jnana yog and bhakti yog—for the practical application of spiritual knowledge. Set in the narrative framework of a discourse between Krishna and his disciple Arjun on the verge of the Mahabharat war, the Gita is a comprehensive and easy-to-understand summary of the Vedic way of life. Frozen in inaction, Arjun turns to Krishna for succour. Lord Krishna goes beyond his immediate dilemma to give Arjun a profound discourse on life, both in theory and practice. In it, he encapsulates the essence of spirituality and virtues like courage, honour, death, love and duty. Including original Sanskrit verses, and English transliterations as well as translations, Swami Mukundananda’s commentary on the Gita contains crystal-clear explanations, scriptural references and highly engaging stories. Through the text of the scripture, he brings forth a treasure-chest of life lessons for us to imbibe. With his characteristic charm, Swami Mukundananda leads the reader page-by-page on the path to ever-lasting peace and happiness.
886 pages, Hardcover
Published September 1, 2022
152 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 9, 2023
The style of presentation and the commentaries are very well thought through and clear. The language is straightforward and simple which make the concepts easy to grasp, specially when compared to other works that overload the reader with too many Sanskrit terms... this approach makes the book far more approachable for a layperson. I've read through quite a few translations with commentaries, and this work is by far one of the best I've come across in recent years.
August 9, 2022
Excellent book, very good commentary with different references and stories to make understand. Helped me to understand more about life and concepts. Thank you.
December 8, 2025
Swami Mukundananda’s Bhagavad Gita : The Song of God stands out as an accessible yet deeply insightful commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. What sets this book apart is the remarkable clarity with which it presents the Gita’s profound spiritual wisdom, making even the most complex verses easy for everyday readers to grasp, reflect upon, and live. One of the strength of this commentary is the way Swami Mukudananda combines traditional philosophical interpretation with Gita’s spiritual essence and practical life lessons to everyday challenges like stress, decision-making, emotional turmoil, self-discipline, and the search for purpose.
The author’s style is straightforward, making complex concepts like karma yog, bhakti, the nature of the Self, and the dynamics of the mind accessible to readers with no prior background in Vedic scriptures. His metaphors and examples are contemporary and relatable without diluting the depth of the original verses. Each chapter contextualizes the Sanskrit verse, gives a precise translation, and follows with an explanation that is both intellectually satisfying and emotionally enriching.
Another distinguishing quality is how seamlessly the commentary guides readers toward bhakti, devotion to God. Instead of merely explaining the philosophy, the author illuminates the emotional and spiritual essence of each verse. The teachings inspire devotion not through doctrine but through understanding; as the meaning becomes clear, devotion arises almost automatically. Swami Mukundananda’s own devotion shines through the pages, making the reader feel uplifted and encouraged.
Because the writing is so clear, these practices do not feel theoretical or difficult, rather they feel achievable. The reader is left with a sense that devotion is not only within reach, but is a joyful and natural way to live.
The Song of God is both easy to understand and deeply devotional which is a rare balance that makes the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita come alive for modern readers. Swami Mukundananda has created a commentary that not only informs the mind but also gently awakens the heart.
The author’s style is straightforward, making complex concepts like karma yog, bhakti, the nature of the Self, and the dynamics of the mind accessible to readers with no prior background in Vedic scriptures. His metaphors and examples are contemporary and relatable without diluting the depth of the original verses. Each chapter contextualizes the Sanskrit verse, gives a precise translation, and follows with an explanation that is both intellectually satisfying and emotionally enriching.
Another distinguishing quality is how seamlessly the commentary guides readers toward bhakti, devotion to God. Instead of merely explaining the philosophy, the author illuminates the emotional and spiritual essence of each verse. The teachings inspire devotion not through doctrine but through understanding; as the meaning becomes clear, devotion arises almost automatically. Swami Mukundananda’s own devotion shines through the pages, making the reader feel uplifted and encouraged.
Because the writing is so clear, these practices do not feel theoretical or difficult, rather they feel achievable. The reader is left with a sense that devotion is not only within reach, but is a joyful and natural way to live.
The Song of God is both easy to understand and deeply devotional which is a rare balance that makes the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita come alive for modern readers. Swami Mukundananda has created a commentary that not only informs the mind but also gently awakens the heart.
September 19, 2024
A MUST READ.
The Bhagwat Gita is divine and the most secret knowledge passed for 5000+ years. The content itself is beyond human intellect. The summary of all the Shastras and the divine song of The Absolute Truth Shree Krishna. The chapters start from Arjun’s grief but where does it end? By the end, you will realise that that is not just about Arjun but all of us.
But my 5 star review is not for the Gita. It is beyond review by humans. This review is about the commentary by Swami Mukandanand (though I am in no way qualified to review him).
This commentary by Swami ji is perfect for the modern age. It systematically arranged and easy to understand for beginners. At the same time it does not lose its intricacies and profound knowledge in the text.
Each verse is broken down and logically explained. It has perfect references from various Shastras which supports the commentary. After reading this, you will understand all you need to know about your the Sanatan Dharma and meaning of life.
The Bhagwat Gita is divine and the most secret knowledge passed for 5000+ years. The content itself is beyond human intellect. The summary of all the Shastras and the divine song of The Absolute Truth Shree Krishna. The chapters start from Arjun’s grief but where does it end? By the end, you will realise that that is not just about Arjun but all of us.
But my 5 star review is not for the Gita. It is beyond review by humans. This review is about the commentary by Swami Mukandanand (though I am in no way qualified to review him).
This commentary by Swami ji is perfect for the modern age. It systematically arranged and easy to understand for beginners. At the same time it does not lose its intricacies and profound knowledge in the text.
Each verse is broken down and logically explained. It has perfect references from various Shastras which supports the commentary. After reading this, you will understand all you need to know about your the Sanatan Dharma and meaning of life.
December 5, 2025
I’m currently on Chapter 2, verses 70–72 of the Bhagavad Gita. I listen to listen to Swami Sarvapriyananda’s podcast and I’ve been reading alongside Swami Mukundananda’s Songs of God. It’s been about two months now, and this commentary has truly deepened my understanding of the text. I also daily, and together they create a balanced blend of clarity, insight, and contemplation.
As Swamiji often says, you never say “I read the Gita”; you say “I am reading the Gita,” because it is a lifelong, unfolding journey. Songs of God captures this spirit beautifully. The explanations are simple yet profound, making the verses accessible while retaining their depth. I can genuinely feel how calming and grounding this practice has become for me, and this book has been a wonderful companion on that path.
As Swamiji often says, you never say “I read the Gita”; you say “I am reading the Gita,” because it is a lifelong, unfolding journey. Songs of God captures this spirit beautifully. The explanations are simple yet profound, making the verses accessible while retaining their depth. I can genuinely feel how calming and grounding this practice has become for me, and this book has been a wonderful companion on that path.
December 26, 2023
Reading this book definitely takes time and patience. Swami Mukundananda's commentaries are clear and will help you understand the texts better.
Some thoughts on the book:
- Do your duty, but remember that the fruits of your actions are not for your enjoyment.
- Concentrate on your efforts.
- Being yourself and concentrating on your duty is more enjoyable than pretending to be someone else.
- Worldly pleasures are temporary.
- Our thoughts affect our future.
- You will have peace of mind if you accept whatever comes your way.
Some thoughts on the book:
- Do your duty, but remember that the fruits of your actions are not for your enjoyment.
- Concentrate on your efforts.
- Being yourself and concentrating on your duty is more enjoyable than pretending to be someone else.
- Worldly pleasures are temporary.
- Our thoughts affect our future.
- You will have peace of mind if you accept whatever comes your way.
April 9, 2023
Lifesaver !!
December 31, 2024
Better & Simpler than "as it is" version of Prabhupada.
Want to read
June 6, 2025I am trying to buy this book on Amazon please help
October 20, 2025
Amazing Translation, amazing commentary. Highly recommended.
February 5, 2024
Before starting, I would like to say this is not a review OF the Bhagwat Gita, but just the commentary of it by Swami Mukundananda.
Mukundananda's commentary acts as a good textual guru to guide a reader through understanding the Bhagwat Gita. His commentary is perfect for the beginner who may not know anything about Sanatan Dharm but is familiar with spirituality in general.
His approach pulls from multiple sources, both indian and outside: such as the Upanishads, the Vedas, the Manusmriti, the Ramayan, the Bible, European literature, historical figures, and many other scriptures. It may give a new person a lot of perspective and reference points to understand the Gita.
The same referencing also becomes a weakness for the commentary - sometimes it goes overboard, and one hopes it is explained as it is to them, without so much external context.
Still, it is also refreshing to see someone talk honestly and openly about the caste system in Bharat divorced from the perspective of Dulmont; a perspective that has even seeped into today's Shankaracharyas.
Overall, it's a great commentary for beginners and I myself would like to read a denser commentary after this. If anyone is Sanatan-curious, this is the place to start.
8.5-9/10
For more reviews, follow: @cokedupreviews on Instagram!
Mukundananda's commentary acts as a good textual guru to guide a reader through understanding the Bhagwat Gita. His commentary is perfect for the beginner who may not know anything about Sanatan Dharm but is familiar with spirituality in general.
His approach pulls from multiple sources, both indian and outside: such as the Upanishads, the Vedas, the Manusmriti, the Ramayan, the Bible, European literature, historical figures, and many other scriptures. It may give a new person a lot of perspective and reference points to understand the Gita.
The same referencing also becomes a weakness for the commentary - sometimes it goes overboard, and one hopes it is explained as it is to them, without so much external context.
Still, it is also refreshing to see someone talk honestly and openly about the caste system in Bharat divorced from the perspective of Dulmont; a perspective that has even seeped into today's Shankaracharyas.
Overall, it's a great commentary for beginners and I myself would like to read a denser commentary after this. If anyone is Sanatan-curious, this is the place to start.
8.5-9/10
For more reviews, follow: @cokedupreviews on Instagram!
November 15, 2025
If you are tired of reading self-help books or think that they seem incomplete or disorganised or whatever (I do not consider them inferior), please read Bhagavad Gita once and ignore if you think the same about it. I had first read ISKCON's commentary on Bhagavad Gita (by Swami Prabhupada) but could not read it beyond 2-3 chapters. That doesn't mean it is not good. It is just that I could not comprehend it. When I accidentally read this commentary by Swami Mukundananda, I could not resist my urge to read it completely. You can read any commentary you think appropriate because the 700 shlokas are same in any book, what differs is the commentary.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews