Meet RAKESH In 2001 my 25-year-old nephew died and that same day my Mom had a stroke and died in 2002. In 2003 my sister in law was diagnosed with stage four Breast cancer and died that same year. In 2004 my brother also died of a massive heart attack and later in 2005 my brother in law passed away from a heart attack.

Life became very tough and very difficult after losing all those family members. I was very sad and depressed for a long time, trying to look for answers to what life is all about.

Soon I learned a meditation practice called Vipassana (insight meditation). This practice was taught originally by Buddha many years ago. It was a 10-day silence meditation (vipassana) retreat that cured me of my depression.

Through my suffering, I decided that I would serve the community and help fellow human beings who are experiencing this Samsara (circle of life). My main purpose in opening Aum Shanti Bookshop was to raise awareness and build a community here in NYC.

As Buddha said, "be your own light in The Darkness." I am taking one day at a time and always am in Gratitude to the divine for giving me this opportunity to be of service.

​Learn more about us, our store, crystals, tarot readings, readers, metaphysical books, events and more, Aum Shanti NYC.