This is part one of a three-part series.
Gautam Jain, often called Gautamji, is a dedicated teacher of Vedanta, a philosophy rooted in ancient Indian texts known as the Upanishads. He’s spent over thirty years studying and sharing these timeless teachings. As the leader of the Vedanta Cultural Foundation, Gautamji helps people apply this wisdom to their everyday lives. He has shared insights with top companies and universities like Amazon, Apple, and MIT. His work has also been featured on ABC and PBS.
Mark Matousek: How did you start your journey into Vedanta?
Gautam Jain: I don’t see it as a business. Instead, it’s about sharing knowledge and helping people. My journey began more than thirty years ago in college here in the U.S. I moved from India at 17 to study business. As graduation approached, I realized that simply working for myself wasn’t enough. I wanted more from life. I reached out to my guru, whose lectures my mother attended. After graduating, I went back to India to study at his Vedanta Academy. Ten years later, my guru encouraged me to return to the U.S. to share what I learned. And I’ve been here for about 20 years now.
MM: What are the main ideas in Vedanta, and how can they benefit people today?
GJ: Vedanta means the culmination of knowledge, representing the highest understanding available to humans. It helps us live well, be productive, and seek self-realization. This knowledge, called Sanatana Dharma, is about eternal truths that are relevant no matter when or where they were discovered. Like the law of gravity, these principles apply to everyone, everywhere, at all times.
MM: How does Vedanta differ from Buddhism or Judeo-Christian teachings?
GJ: One key difference is that Vedanta doesn’t rely on a single founder. Over the centuries, many sages and saints have contributed to its wisdom. It focuses on practical techniques for living rather than rigid religious doctrines. This knowledge can help anyone, regardless of their beliefs. Without it, people can struggle with stress, addiction, and various societal issues. The lack of practical life education affects everyone worldwide, not just in specific cultures.
MM: Many people today feel anxious and traumatized. How can Vedanta help with these feelings?
GJ: The first step in managing life’s challenges is understanding that the problem often lies in how we relate to the world, not the world itself. For example, one person may see their partner as the source of misery, while another sees the same person as a source of joy. It’s not the person but the mindset of each individual that matters. Stress and anxiety stem from our reactions and emotions, not external circumstances. Strengthening our intellect helps us manage our emotions better and grow as individuals.
MM: But what about real threats? How can we deal with adversity?
GJ: We must accept that the world won’t always align with our desires. Seasons change, traffic exists, and political outcomes vary. Emotional control is vital for staying calm amid chaos. Often, it’s our expectations that lead to stress. By managing our minds, we can navigate the world’s challenges more effectively.
