The Concept of Upasana: Worship in Sanskrit Literature (Sri Garib Dass Oriental Series)

📘 Book Details

• Author: Rajani S. Patki

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 1996

• ISBN: 9788170304838

• Pages: 264

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 22 cm × 5.5 cm

• Weight: 480 gm

 Description

The Concept of Upasana: Worship in Sanskrit Literature by Dr. Rajani S. Patki is a profound scholarly work based on the author’s Ph.D. thesis submitted to the University of Bombay. This book offers an in-depth exploration of the philosophical, psychological, and spiritual significance of Upasana (worship) as reflected in Sanskrit scriptures across eras.

The author presents a comparative and comprehensive study of:

• Vedic and Upanishadic sources – exploring the earliest rituals and meditative practices.

• Puranic, Agamic, and Smriti texts – tracing the evolution of devotional and symbolic worship.

• Itihasas and Sutras – identifying embedded elements of worship in Ramayana, Mahabharata, and foundational sutras.

• Bhakti literature and mysticism – highlighting worship’s role in shaping spiritual expression and saint traditions.

Key themes include:

• Physical, psychological, and intellectual aspects of worship

• The unity within diverse modes of Upasana

• Varna-Ashrama Dharma and worship practices

• Nature worship, idol worship, and metaphysical symbolism

• Influence of divine perception and self-realization in spiritual progress

This insightful book also discusses the efficacy of Upasana as a means to attain liberation (moksha), blending philosophy with practical spiritual disciplines. It's an essential reference for students of Sanskrit, scholars of Indology, practitioners of Hindu spirituality, and anyone curious about the roots of Indian devotional traditions.