Swastik Banerjee is a doctoral student of philosophy focusing his research on Trika – exploring the non-dual nature of reality and the path to self-realization. He is a devoted practitioner of the Kaula Tantric path and has also penned the script for a dance production Cidānandavilāsa.
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Swastik Banerjee:- Swastik Banerjee is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Philosophy at the esteemed Department of Philosophy, University of Calcutta. His academic journey has been supported by notable fellowships, including the University Research Fellowship from the University of Calcutta, the Ishwar Ashram Trust Fellowship, and the Kashmir Saiva Institute Fellowship. During his Master's degree in Philosophy at the University of Madras, Swastik Banerjee attained the top position in his program. This period provided him with a unique opportunity to study Vedanta under the esteemed guidance of scholars including Mahamahopadhyay Mani Dravid Shastri, Swami Paramananda Bharati, Prof. John Grimes, Prof. Godabarisha Mishra, and others. Swastik Banerjee has also received invaluable guidance and training in the Trika tradition from notable scholars and practitioners such as the late Prof. Debabrata Sen Sharma, Prof. Navjivan Rastogi, Pundit Pran Nath Kaul, Lawrence Small, Giriratna Mishra, and many more. His research focuses on Trika philosophy, popularly known as Kashmir Shaivism, exploring the non-dual nature of reality and the path to self-realization. His dedication extends beyond academic pursuits. He is a devoted practitioner of the Kaula Tantric path, having received initiations in both Sri Kula (Mantra Krama) and Kali Kula (Vidya Krama). Guided by experts, he continues to delve into the esoteric and occult systems of both Eastern and Western traditions. He has presented his research at various state, national, and international conferences, including esteemed platforms like IIAS Shimla, Jadavpur University, ICPR, Benaras Hindu University, and so on. Additionally, he has shared his insights through public lectures on philosophy and spirituality. Demonstrating his creativity, He has written scripts for dance productions, including the notable work "Cidānandavilāsa: recognition of the divinity within," which received a production grant from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Despite having received an offer to pursue a D.Phil in Theology at the prestigious University of Oxford, fate led had other plans for him. Being in Bengal, coupled with his immersive travels and interactions with esteemed gurus and mahatmas, has provided him valuable insights into the realms of esoteric knowledge and spirituality. These experiences continue to shape his profound understanding in these domains which he seeks to develop further.
