Abide as the Self: The Essential Teachings of Ramana Maharshi

Remember when celebrities like the Beatles and Mia Farrow went to India to see their gurus? Ever notice how terms like "self realization" and "centeredness" have crept into mainstream vocabulary? This solid documentary takes us back in time to examine the life and teachings of Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950), a forerunner of the guru-popular '60s. Maharshi experienced a sudden spiritual awakening at age 17 and repaired to a mountain in Southern India, where he remained for 54 years. During that time, seekers from five continents came to sit in his presence, and interviewees looking back comment on the experience and enumerate the principles of his teachings (self inquiry leads to self realization, solitude is in the mind, realization is simply being oneself, etc.). Their testimony is bolstered by archival photos and movies, depicting life at the ashram, which centered around a leader whose only possessions were a loincloth and a towel. The program concludes with the encouraging words of Ram Dass who tells us that Maharshi's message is not Indian but universal: the peace that illuminates the heart and mind is always present. Anyone curious about this aspect of Eastern spirituality will find this informative and interesting video worthwhile and surprisingly accessible to general viewers. Recommended. (J. Reed)