Ashtanga Yoga in Sant Charandas' Eight-Limb System: A Yogic and Philosophical Analysis

Abstract

This research paper aims at the discussion of Ashtanga Yoga as per the teachings of Saint Charandas. Saint Charandas is an medieval era Indian saint known for integrating classical yogic practices with bhakti devotion. Drawing from his key works, particularly Ashtang Yoga treatise, the analysis explores how Charandas adapted Patanjali's eight-limbed yogic path, extending certain elements like yama and niyama, while integrating them in a devotional framework. Through a comparative yogic and philosophical analysis, this research shows Charandas' unique contributions to making the principles of yoga accessible to householders, elucidating inner realization over ritualism. The study highlights the syncretic nature of his system, intermixing Sant tradition, Vaishnavism, and yoga for spiritual achievement of liberation.