The publication in 1785 of this first English version of the Gita proved to be a landmark cross-cultural event. Translated directly from Sanskrit, it was an immediate success and became the base for translations into several European languages. The wide circulation of the little book led to the development of a lasting interest in Hindu thought and philosophy among some of the greatest Western intellectuals of the time.

This English translation of the Bhagavad Gita is the first one done directly from the original Sanskrit. Published by the East India Company in 1785, it is a collector’s item. Widely perceived as authentic, it had a deep impact on some of the greatest Western intellectuals of the time, including Carlyle and Emerson. The text was used for translations into French, German, and Russian. A best- seller, the little book inspired a number of scholars to study Sanskrit and created a lasting interest in Hindu thought and philosophy in the West.

The Prologue by VR Panchamukhi, provides a valuable critique of the translation, as well as his views on the message of the Gita for today. The Introduction by multi-faceted scholar, MV Nadkarni, provides a nuanced appreciation of the work, as well as fascinating glimpses of the early colonial period in India, and of the influence on Wilkins of his mentor, Warren Hastings.

VR Panchamukhi is Chancellor, Sri Gurusarvabhouma Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, Mantralayam. Formerly he was Chancellor, Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth (Deemed University) Tirupati. MV Nadkarni, is Honorary Visiting Professor at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC) Bengaluru, and former Vice-Chancellor, Gulbarga University, Karnataka.

ISBN : 978-81-936104-3-5