#Review: Everyday Spirituality by Dr Pawar

In Everyday Spirituality, Dr Badrinarayan Shankar Pawar illuminates a deeply moving approach to spiritual growth, exploring the life of his mother, Baai, as a testament to living a life rooted in profound inner wisdom. Unlike many books on spirituality that call for asceticism or withdrawal from the ordinary, Dr. Pawar presents an inspiring, relatable path grounded in daily routines, familial ties, and the simple yet challenging experiences of life.

Baai’s story is the cornerstone of this exploration. Without formal guidance from a spiritual guru, she embodied the tenets of sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Dnyaaneswhari. Her life, and indeed her death, reflect a rare integration of spirituality into the “ordinary,” illustrating how even the most mundane life circumstances can be infused with sacred significance and peace.

Dr. Pawar’s unique background—a PhD from Oklahoma State University and a scholar of spirituality—adds a compelling dual perspective to his writing. His reflections move between memories of Baai’s life and the verses from the scriptures she embodied, alongside references to scientific research on spirituality. This combination enriches the narrative, grounding Baai’s spirituality in both ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry.

One of the book’s most powerful moments centres around Baai’s final days, which, as Dr. Pawar describes, epitomized a peaceful acceptance and spiritual liberation that scriptures speak of yet few witness firsthand. Her end was marked by serenity despite physical suffering, providing a moving illustration of a life aligned with higher spiritual truths even in the face of mortality.

However, one notable flaw is that the language throughout the book is extremely elementary, robbing readers of the flair and flow that more nuanced prose could offer. For readers balancing careers, relationships, and life’s many obligations, Ordinary Spirituality serves as a reminder that a fulfilling spiritual life is within reach without abandoning everyday responsibilities. Dr. Pawar’s writing is heartfelt and insightful, capturing the essence of a spirituality that does not reside solely in temples or monasteries but can be woven into the very fabric of ordinary life. This book is ideal for anyone yearning for a deeper spiritual connection while navigating the complexities of a “regular” life.

Find this book here.