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Naren chants the original Sanskrit Bhagavad Gita verses, followed by verses from Gyaneshwari in medieval Marathi language, and English commentary.

Saint Gyaneshwar was born in the 13th century in India and was initiated into the Nath-Vaishnava lineage. His most celebrated work, the poetic song-sermon Gyaneshwari, is a treatise on the Bhagavad Gita and is full of philosophical insights. The composing of the text in the vernacular enabled common folk to recite this profound wisdom of the highest non-dualistic philosophy, a miracle that can be witnessed even today. At the tender age of 21, Gyaneshwar transcended his body by entering into a deep meditative state.

Naren Budhakar was born in India into a family rooted in Sanskrit and Indian classical music. He has performed with the finest musicians of India and of other music genres, including with Bobby McFerrin and Alicia Keys. He is co-director of the East-West School of Music at Ananda Ashram. Before taking up music full time, Naren trained in biological sciences and worked as a researcher. In his talks, he illuminates traditional Eastern philosophy by juxtaposing it with scientific pragmatism, provoking thoughtful reflection.