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When you believe in your identity, you will never know the reality || Acharya Prashant,with students
Breaking Free
2.5K views
3 years ago
Bhagavad Gita
Self-realization
Identity
Freedom
Mind
Society
Desire
Inquiry
Description

Acharya Prashant emphasizes that the Bhagavad Gita is a profound philosophical document rather than a mere collection of stories. He explains that self-realization cannot occur as long as an individual is deeply convinced of their current, false identities. Most people are so certain of who they are—defined by names, roles, and social labels—that they leave no room for discovering their true nature. He suggests that instead of searching for a new 'real identity', one must first examine and question the validity of their existing identities. These current identities are often just a collection of thoughts and behaviors that change depending on external circumstances and the presence of others. He points out that our beliefs, ideologies, religions, and even our deepest desires are frequently absorbed from external sources like society, advertisements, and trends without any personal discretion. An intelligent mind must inquire into the origins of these influences, asking whether they would still hold the same values if they were born in a different culture or environment. Acharya Prashant argues that true freedom and youthfulness are missing when one's life is dictated by unknown masters and social acceptance. By rigorously and honestly rejecting everything that is fake, artificial, and dependent on others, one eventually discovers a new and beautiful self that is truly real.