Ananda Marga, the “Path of Bliss,” presents a vision in which spiritual realization and social responsibility are inseparable. At its philosophical core stands the affirmation of a single, infinite Supreme Consciousness—variously described as Brahma or Purusha—as the ultimate reality and the true object of inner ideation. Spiritual practice (sádhaná) is understood as an experiential, tantric process through which the individual mind gradually realizes its unity with this Consciousness. This path emphasizes devotion (bhakti) and one-pointed love for the Infinite, encouraging a movement of the mind from finite attachments toward the formless, all-pervasive Divine. Rather than repressing instincts and desires, the tantric orientation seeks to sublimate and transform them, using every aspect of life as material for inner growth.

Ethical and devotional disciplines provide the foundation for this inner journey. The classical eightfold path of yoga (Astaunga Yoga) is adopted as a practical framework, integrating moral restraints (yama), observances (niyama), postures, breath control, sense withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and absorption in Supreme Consciousness. Yama and niyama are treated as absolute principles, including non-harm to evolved beings, benevolent truthfulness, non-stealing, control of vital energy, non-accumulation, purity, contentment, austerity, study of elevating ideas, and constant ideation on the Supreme. Regular mantra-based meditation, supported by kirtan and a disciplined lifestyle—such as a lactovegetarian diet, fasting, and avoidance of intoxicants—aims to harmonize body, mind, and spirit. Through this integrated practice, the individual microcosm is seen as gradually expanding back toward its macrocosmic source.

From this spiritual vision arises a distinctive universalism. All beings are regarded as expressions of the same Consciousness, which grounds a neohumanistic outlook of universal love and respect that extends beyond humans to animals, plants, and even inanimate existence. Dharma is understood as the inherent nature and moral-spiritual order that supports this realization, and any form of exploitation or discrimination based on caste, creed, race, gender, nationality, or species is rejected. Service (sevá) to all beings is not merely charitable activity but a direct expression of devotion, offered to the Supreme dwelling in every entity. Spiritual growth and social engagement are thus seen as two facets of a single movement toward a more just and compassionate world.

This universal spiritual ethos also informs a concrete socio-economic vision. Progressive Utilization Theory (PROUT) proposes that material resources be used rationally and progressively for the welfare of all, rather than for the profit of a few. It emphasizes economic decentralization, cooperative structures, guaranteed minimum necessities, and limits on excessive accumulation, always under the guidance of ethical and spiritually oriented leadership. History itself is interpreted as a process of spiritual-psychic evolution, and social activism against exploitation is viewed as part of one’s dharmic responsibility. In this way, Ananda Marga seeks to align personal sádhaná, ethical living, and collective organization within a single, coherent path aimed at both self-realization and the welfare of the world.