yātrā
The journey
Dr Kausthub Desikachar was inspired by his spiritual ancestor, Shri Vedanta Desika (1268 – 1370) and his grandfather Yogācārya Śrī T Krishnamacharya(1888 – 1989). They composed innumerable poems that touched many souls, often their poems were composed amidst crisis and life challenges they encountered. Their emotions and experiences were expressed in the form of poetry.
Dr Kausthub Desikachar’s life challenges were no different, he too went through a crisis. He wasn’t even prepared for what was ahead. The trials came in many forms which affected him personally and professionally. Yet, with the blessings and teachings of his ancestors, grandfather and father, he faced them fearlessly. He believes that pain and hardship that he endured made him stronger emotionally and spiritually.
He says “It is essential not just to give weight to the happy emotions we experience, but also to digest the challenging ones. Themes of devotion, love, friendship, fear and rejection have left strong impressions in my life and have been profound teachers“.
He further says, “Writing about life experiences has been a powerful way for me to not only heal from them but also to help inspire others in their journeys. I have shared these poems with students, family, colleagues and others I love. While I cannot say that my poetry has been a medicine to all, it certainly has motivated many to write their own stories connecting to their hearts“.