Manisha Melwani shares Vedanta wisdom on karma, suffering, and spiritual living in today’s fast-paced world.
Manisha Melwani
What does it mean to live a spiritual life in today’s fast-paced world? This question formed the core of a recent episode of the Mid-Day Podcast, where Toronto-based teacher, writer, and speaker Manisha Melwani joined host Katyani Kapoor in Mumbai for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation.
Melwani, who was recently in Mumbai for speaking engagements and to promote her book, Your Spiritual Journey: A Guide to Unfolding Your Divine Self, empowers individuals with spiritual and wellness solutions to navigate stress, uncertainty, and the search for deeper meaning. Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Vedanta, she presents spiritual teachings in a manner that is current, relatable, and relevant to modern life.
The discussion opened with a fundamental question: What is the root cause of suffering, and why must we suffer at all? Melwani explained that, according to the law of karma, suffering is neither random nor unfair. The experiences we undergo are the results of our own past actions. The universe, she said, is an ordered and intelligent system governed by precise cosmic laws. Good actions bring positive results; harmful actions eventually yield painful consequences. No one suffers for another’s wrongdoing, as each individual is responsible for their own karmic account.
Kapoor then raised a common concern: Why do honest and hardworking individuals often experience sorrow and difficulty, while those who act dishonestly appear to enjoy wealth and comfort? In response, Melwani offered the example of a thief. While the thief may gain immediate material benefit, the negative consequences of causing harm will inevitably return at some point in the future. Nature’s laws, she emphasized, are ironclad. Though results may not be instantaneous, nothing goes unnoticed. In a light-hearted metaphor, she remarked that the universe has “hidden cameras” everywhere, recording not only our actions and words but even our thoughts and intentions.
The conversation then shifted to the practical challenges of integrating spirituality into daily life. In an era defined by constant notifications, demanding schedules, and endless distractions, how can one cultivate inner growth? Melwani stressed the importance of making spirituality a conscious priority. Without firm boundaries, she noted, it is easy to be swept away by external pressures. She quoted Swami Tejomayananda, head of the Chinmaya Mission: “When you don’t stand for something, you will fall for everything.”
According to Melwani, the most effective way to maintain spiritual focus is to “bookend” the day with practice-engaging in reflection, prayer, or meditation first thing in the morning and again before retiring at night. Early morning, she explained, offers a quiet and pure atmosphere conducive to stillness and self-reflection. This solitude fosters self-awareness, which in turn enables inner transformation. Without awareness, she asserted, genuine personal growth is not possible.
Kapoor also explored what draws a person to the spiritual path. Does seeking arise naturally, or is it triggered by life events? Melwani shared that her own journey began at the age of twenty following the sudden death of her father. Confronted with grief, she was compelled to ask difficult questions: Where did he go? Why did he have to die? What is the journey of the soul? Why must families endure such suffering? These questions initiated a decades-long search for clarity and truth.
After nearly twenty years of study and inquiry, she found guidance in the teachings of Vedantic master, Swami Chinmayananda. Through this study, she discovered a framework that addressed her deepest concerns about life, death, and the purpose of human existence.
Today, Melwani conducts classes, workshops, and courses on Vedanta and natural approaches to alleviating stress. When asked why she wrote her book, she explained that she often heard the phrase, “We are spiritual beings having a human experience,” yet noticed that many people could not clearly articulate what that means. Her book seeks to answer foundational questions: What is the soul? What does it mean to be spiritual? What is the spiritual journey, and how does one grow spiritually? By presenting these ideas systematically, she aims to offer readers clarity and practical guidance.
The episode concluded on an encouraging note, inviting listeners to continue their exploration of spiritual living. Readers interested in learning more about Melwani’s teachings can visit her website, ManishaMelwani.com, where she shares over 250 articles on spirituality and personal growth. They may also subscribe to her complimentary semi-monthly “Spiritual Solutions” newsletter for ongoing insights. Her book is available on platforms such as Amazon, and an audiobook edition is expected to be released soon.
In a world marked by speed and uncertainty, Melwani’s message is clear: spiritual growth requires awareness, discipline, and trust in the moral order that governs life. Through consistent practice and thoughtful inquiry, she believes, individuals can cultivate resilience, fulfillment, and lasting inner peace.
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