Shankaracharya's Vivekachudamani needs no introduction. It has always occupied one of the highest positions among books dealing with the science of Self-realization and has been the vade mecum for spiritual aspirants throughout the last millennium. Even from a purely literary standpoint, its charm has always been irresistible and captivating. Added to all this, Swami Ranganathananda's commentary on this profound work, in the light of modern thought and modern needs, is both fascinating and inspiring.