Introduction

Shastra Setu is a distinguished series of talks initiated by the alumni and senior students of MIT-IIKS and Hindu University of America (HUA) in the USA. This platform serves as a conduit for propagating the integral wisdom of the Bharatiya Rishis and Acharyas, aiming to inspire present and future generations to embrace the well-trodden path of Bharatiya Tattvam. By engaging with the timeless knowledge of our shastras, the initiative seeks to motivate individuals to dedicate time and effort towards self-transformation and community upliftment.

Potential Topics for Shastra Setu Events

Based on past events, Shastra Setu talks can explore a wide range of subjects, including but not limited to:

Introduction to Indian Philosophy, Sanatana Dharma, and Spirituality
Understanding Hindu scriptures and their relevance
Various paths in Hindu tradition and their significance
The foundational principles of Ayurveda and its modern applications
The interconnection of different Shastras, such as Nyaya, Sankhya, and Ayurveda
The role of Rishis and Acharyas in shaping Bharatiya knowledge traditions
The concept of Freedom and Liberation in Hindu Dharma
Practical guidance on studying and applying Indic Knowledge Systems

These topics not only provide valuable insights but also help seekers deepen their understanding and engagement with Bharatiya Samskriti.

January 26th 2025

Sireesha Kumbhari Master of Arts Sanskrit II yr student of Hindu University of America visited Hindu Seva Sangh Abhimanyu Shakha in Schaumburg, IL and delivered a talk on “Starting the journey into Indian Philosophy, Sanatana dharma and Spirituality”.

She was welcomed to join the “Sevika” managed HSS activities and participate in the evening’s rigorous activities.

In the day’s Bodhak event, armed by knowledge bestowed upon her by esteemed Acharyas of HUA like Dr. Dhananjaya Dharur, Dr. Suryanarayana Jammalamadaka and Dr. Tilak Rao, Sireesha focused on the questions that are posed not only by people from other cultures but also children in Hindu homes.

What are Hindu scriptures?
Which book should I read to understand Bharatiya Samskriti?
Why do you have so many gods?
Why are there so many paths to choose from?
Wouldn't it be easy to have one book that tells you dos and don'ts?

She talked about the amazing thought process of Rishis and Maharishis, their utmost kindness and love towards the generations to come, their prowess on knowledge and reverence to the beyond.

Proudly explaining how Freedom and Liberation are at the core of Hindu dharma and Vaidik practice, she introduced the list of the Bharatiya sanatana 14 MahaVidyaSthanani, the 14 Abodes of knowledge.

Strongly encouraging the HSS Shakha Audience to start, renew or revive their quest to seek, she shared resources and tools like HUA with the group.

The talk was very well received by the audience. With a request to hear more on the Indic Knowledge Systems and recommendation to share the talk at other centers the Group happily clicked a few pictures with the speaker to cherish the event.

February 2nd 2025

Rama Shripati Koneru, student of the Sanskrit MA program offered as a joint venture by MIT-IIKS and Hindu University of America, offered a free talk to spark an interest in our Shastras. She chose to showcase the Ayurveda Shastra at the Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Temple of Austin, 2509 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613.

The highlights of the talk included the origins, acharyas, granthas, timeline and some basic principles of Ayurveda, its intention, how it works – simply put, how all shastras follow certain basic guidelines, intention/goal of shastras (including personal experience of transformation) how some other shastras are used in Ayurveda (like Nyaya, Sankhya, etc) and hence importance of studying all supporting shastras, Ayurveda then and now, and some case studies or applications through the lens of Ayurveda.

The wonder of birth as described in the original texts was showcased, the samapatti/engrossment and observation of processes in Nature which helped our rShis/scientists understand processes within the human body was extolled.

The talk was well-received, and some attendees expressed hope in terms of their health or health of a loved one, where there was none earlier. Many expressed interest in listening to more such talks.

Rama is immensely inspired by all her Gurus from the Institute, including Sai Susarla Mahodaya, Dhananjaya Acharya, Jammalamadaka Mahodaya, TilakAcharya, and others and seeks their blessings in furthering her progress on her inward path through her own study of Shastras, as well as in being a spark that motivates others in their own process.