Shraddhesh Chaturvedi

Narada Bhakti Sutra Shraddhesh Chaturvedi

Sage Narada is accepted as the primary guru of devotion in Indian tradition. His inspiration is the key reason in conception and subsequent writing of many devotional texts, including Bhagvat Purana. Narada has himself compiled Bhakti Sutra or devotional guidelines for devotees' benefit. It is a short and authoritative work on devotion which is very popular among devotees. In this text, he has established devotion as an independent and superior means of liberation. It is an independent path because it does not require the assistance of other paths like knowledge and action. This is also evident from the examples of several common persons, from all walks of life, who without knowing scriptures or performing their duties as per Vedas, have attained God by their love alone. And, the path of devotion is superior to every other path because it can be practiced by all, it is efficient, unfailing and the most enjoyable. And, it is preferred by God. After establishing the superiority of devotion, Narada describes the multiple ways to practice it so that anyone can achieve his supreme welfare. The path of devotion is quite flexible because a way can be chosen based on the interest, inclination, and habits of the seeker. Ultimately, it is only our intensity which matters to God. This path of love is sweeter than every other conceivable path. The devotees spread its fragrance at all the time, in all the directions, onto everyone whoever comes close to them. Imbibe it and experience the unbounded and ever-present love within.