Two versions of the Bhagavad Gita in Spanish
How to study the Bhagavad Gita
The study of the Bhagavad Gita is a transformative journey toward understanding the self and its connection to God. At the Gita Institute, this path is illuminated through two distinct yet complementary perspectives.
Pedro Nonell, a leading Spanish expert on the Bhagavad Gita, Vedanta, and the teachings of and Swami Vivekananda, has meticulously translated these works to aid modern seekers. Whether you are drawn to the selfless action of Gandhi’s interpretation or the profound knowledge found in Swami Vidyaprakashananda’s Gita Makaranadam, these versions provide the necessary tools to realize the presence of God in daily life.
The seeker studies two versions of the Bhagavad Gita (Gandhi, Swami Vidyaprakashananda) in English / Hindi / Spanish
The Gita Institute works with two versions of the Bhagavad Gita, both translated into Spanish by
1- Gita according to (with Comments by Swami Sivananda)
is a magnificent example of how the Bhagavad Gita influenced the peaceful independence of India and many African and Asian colonies, being the most important Ahimsa movement in the history of humanity.
Furthermore, Gandhi laid down part of the socio-economic pillars of the new India (abolition of castes, harmony between religions, application of the national Yajna or “sacrifice” for the creation of a trust fund for the poorest..)
And Gandhi was a “normal person”, with family, work and political obligations. Gandhi's version is one of the most accessible that exists, being ideal for getting started in the Bhagavad Gita. The focus is mostly on Karma Yoga (Path of Selfless Action).
Example of Chapter 18 of the Bhagavad Gita according to Gandhi
was an important guru and advocate of Vedanta and yoga. He studied Medicine and practiced medicine before becoming a Swami.
Sivananda gave his own interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita, whose comments translated into Spanish are included in this version. He was the creator of Swami Sivananda's Yoga of Synthesis, in which the four classic paths of yoga are integrated: Karma-Action, Bhakti, Dhyana (Meditation), Jnana (Knowledge).
He is an example of someone who early in his life lived as a normal person practicing medicine and later became a Swami.
The Bhagavad Gita and Sri Swami Sivananda
2- Gita Makaranadam by Swami Vidyaprakashananda
Swami Vidya Prakashananda Giri (1914-1998), was an Indian Spiritual guru. The Bhagavad Gita Makarandam was his most significant work, it is a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita written in Telugu; later translated into Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, English, and Spanish by Pedro Nonell.
The advanced courses and the master's degree are based on this version, much deeper than Gandhi's, and therefore more complex. The focus is mainly Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge).
Example of verse 66 of chapter XVIII of the Gita Makarandam
with its extensive comments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Pedro Nonell’s translations unique?
Pedro Nonell is a Spanish expert who brings a deep understanding of Vedanta, Ramakrishna, and Vivekananda to his work. His translations bridge the gap between ancient Eastern philosophy and the contemporary seeker, ensuring the spiritual essence remains intact.
Which version should a beginner choose?
The version according to Mahatma Gandhi is highly recommended for beginners. It focuses on Karma Yoga (Selfless Action) and demonstrates how the teachings of the Gita can be applied by "normal people" to achieve social and spiritual harmony.
What is the focus of the Gita Makaranadam?
The Gita Makaranadam by Swami Vidyaprakashananda is an advanced commentary focusing on Jnana Yoga (the Path of Knowledge). It offers a deep, analytical dive into the verses, ideal for those pursuing a Master’s level of understanding in the science of Yoga.
Conclusion
Choosing between these two versions of the Bhagavad Gita allows the student to approach the spiritual science of Yoga from the angle that best suits their current temperament.
While Gandhi offers a practical path of action that transformed a nation, Swami Vidyaprakashananda provides the intellectual depth required for total liberation.
Through both, the guidance of Pedro Nonell ensures that the wisdom
of the masters—Ramakrishna and Vivekananda—remains a living force, leading
every seeker closer to the ultimate realization of God.
Dos versiones del Bhagavad Gita 
Duas versões do Bhagavad-Gita.
Listen to the video of Pedro Nonell with English subtitles
Ramakrishna and Vivekananda, Para-Vidya, Self-Knowledge, General overview, modalities, Study guide, chapter of the Bhagavad Gita
Online Training, reading, Exercises, Teachers, transmission of the Bhagavad Gita, Should we believe in something?, dogmas
The Bhagavad Gita is Yoga-Shastra
Advanced Course: Realization of the Bhagavad Gita
(c) Gita Institute & Pedro Nonell
