Photo: Lakshmi, as a child, with Swami Satchidananda during a visit to Yogaville, 1980s.
From the stillness of dawn to the farthest corners of the heart, the legacy of Sri Swami Satchidananda continues to inspire and uplift. One beautiful expression of this devotion comes from Lakshmi Harilela, an Integral Yoga teacher in Hong Kong and a gifted creative whose life flows with artistry—in the kitchen, behind the camera, and now, through music.
Her recent song, Parable of the Sower, is a soul-stirring tribute to her beloved Guru, capturing the timeless wisdom and boundless love of Swami Satchidananda through heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody. Each verse is a thread in the tapestry of remembrance, honoring the Guru who has been a steady, guiding light in her life and in the life of her family for several generations.
Lakshmi’s path is rooted in service and beauty. As a passionate chef, food stylist, and photographer, she brings grace and mindfulness into everything she touches. That same spirit of reverence shines through this musical offering—an expression of gratitude, love, and deep spiritual connection.
The song’s chorus, “Oh, Master of the heart, you taught us how to see / Beyond the restless mind, to true serenity,” reminds us that the true aim of Yoga is not just physical mastery but inner transformation. With simplicity and sincerity, the lyrics speak to the essence of Swami Satchidananda’s teachings: unity, peace, and unconditional love.
Lakshmi hopes this song will be the first in a series of musical tributes that blossom into a full album—a devotional offering not only from her, but from the hearts of many touched by Gurudev’s message and presence.
Listen to Parable of the Sower here.
May this song be a call to the heart, reminding us of the path of light the Guru reveals—and of the joy of walking it with open hearts.
LYRICS:
Parable of the Sower
*Verse 1*
In the stillness of the dawn, his wisdom shines so bright,
Guiding us with love, like stars in darkest night.
Sri Swami Satchidananda, gentle, wise, and true,
Showed the path of Yoga, in everything we do.
*Chorus*
Oh, Master of the heart, you taught us how to see,
Beyond the restless mind, to true serenity.
With kindness as our guide and wisdom as our light,
You showed us Yoga’s way—pure love, eternal sight.
*Verse 2*
“Conquer the mind,” you said, “be free from fear and pain,”
Through breath and sacred sound, find peace within again.
A bridge of harmony, you built for all mankind,
Uniting East and West, in spirit, heart, and mind.
*Chorus*
Oh, Master of the heart, you taught us how to see,
Beyond the restless mind, to true serenity.
With kindness as our guide and wisdom as our light,
You showed us Yoga’s way—pure love, eternal sight.
*Bridge*
Hari Om, the chant resounds, in every soul you touched,
Your legacy of grace, it heals us all so much.
The gift of true Yoga, not just the asana’s flow,
But living every moment in the light you’ve shown.
*Outro*
So we walk this path with gratitude and grace,
Honoring your name in every time and space.
Sri Swami Satchidananda, your light will never fade,
In our hearts, your love lives on—the peace you’ve made.
This song was composed with the help of digital tools that allowed Lakshmi to translate her vision into sound. While technology played a role, the devotion behind it is wholly her own—a true offering of the heart.
