Review: Adiyogi: The Source of Yoga

Adiyogi: The Source of Yoga by Sadhguru
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a book about Shiva – the first Yogi who transmitted the knowledge to disciples, many centuries back. The book has several things going for it: the descriptions have an intensity and it is almost as if you can feel the magnetic pull of Shiva as you read. The myths which are included are all exceptionally good, though many are common knowledge in the Indian culture. Sadhguru’s perspective of Shiva as one who can take you to the depths of yourself – destroying all that is impermanent and make believe is interesting There are also fresh perspectives and insights at many instances while the myths are discussed - on Shiva’s practice, valor, balance, compassion and selflessness.

While the mythology makes for great reading, the pseudo-science which figures especially in the initial stages was entirely avoidable. The writing style is variant – there are sentence constructs which are repetitive and detracts from the narration – for instance every 10 sentences in Section 3, you will find a phrase about Sadhguru laughing. While the last section also purports to raise several questions, many are left unanswered. However, that may also be because each person has to find his own way.



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