Principles of Tantra (2 Vols.) by Sir John Woodroffe | Arthur Avalon | Shivalik Prakashan

“Principles of Tantra” by Sir John Woodroffe (pseudonym: Arthur Avalon) is a monumental two-volume English work that presents the deep philosophical and practical foundations of Tantra Shastra, based on ancient Indian texts and oral traditions.

First published in the early 20th century and still unmatched in its depth, this work is a translation and commentary on Tantraraja Tantra and other rare Sanskrit manuscripts, offering detailed insights into Tantric cosmology, rituals, kundalini, chakras, mantra, yantra, guru-disciple relationship, and Shakti worship.

Sir John Woodroffe, a British judge and Sanskrit scholar, dedicated his life to demystifying and defending Indian spiritual traditions. This book is not sensational but scholarly — aiming to present Tantra as a profound spiritual science rather than superstition.

This two-volume set is essential for anyone who seeks a serious and authentic understanding of Indian Tantric tradition from its philosophical, psychological, and metaphysical perspectives.

✨ Key Features

• Scholarly exposition of Tantric principles

• Includes translation of ancient texts and explanatory commentary

• Focus on Shakti, Kundalini, Chakras, Mantras, Rituals

• Dissects misconceptions about Tantra with clarity

• Ideal for researchers, yoga scholars, and spiritual seekers

• Critical edition by one of the earliest Western Indologists who respected Indian tradition

✅ Why Read This Book?

• To deeply understand classical Tantra beyond modern myths

• For academic, spiritual, or meditative study of Tantric cosmology and rituals

• Learn how energy, sound, and consciousness interact in Tantric thought

• Ideal for yoga teachers, researchers, and seekers of Eastern philosophy

• To engage with primary source texts interpreted by a serious scholar

👤 Best For

• Students and scholars of Indian spirituality

• Tantra and Kundalini yoga practitioners

• University libraries and research institutions

• Advanced spiritual seekers

• Indology, philosophy, and comparative religion researchers