ESSAYS

Neti-neti means “not this, not this.” By negating both the gross and subtle universes, Vedānta reveals the one thing that cannot be negated: the witnessing Self, evident as “I am.”

Mumukshutva means the intense longing for liberation. More than curiosity, it is the fire that makes freedom the top priority, like gasping for air while drowning. It is the engine of all Vedantic pursuit.

Mahavakya means “great statement.” Tradition highlights four Upanishadic declarations, but many others exist, and later Advaita sayings like Brahma satyam jagan mithya also function as teaching mahavakyas. All reveal the oneness of Self and Brahman.

Celebrity promises freedom but delivers captivity. The golden cage of fame dazzles the world, yet suffocates those inside it. The door stands open, but few ever walk through, because society itself demands that the illusion remain intact. In the end, the cage is not only theirs—it is ours.

Lila means play. In Vedanta, it describes creation as a spontaneous manifestation of fullness, not a project of need. The wise, too, live life as lila — engaged in action, yet free.

Karta means doer, bhokta means experiencer. These roles define saṃsara: “I act, I reap.” Vedanta teaches that the Self is neither doer nor experiencer, but pure awareness.