Awake: The Life of Yogananda
Awake is an unconventional biography about the Hindu guru who brought Kriya yoga and meditation to the West in the 1920s. Paramahansa Yogananda was the first Swami who took residence in the United States, placing many people on the path toward self-realization. He authored the spiritual classic Autobiography of a Yogi, which has sold millions of copies and is a must-read for truth seekers and yoga enthusiasts today.
By personalizing his journey for enlightenment and sharing his struggles along the way, Yogananda made ancient Vedic teachings relatable to a modern audience. Known as the "Father of Yoga in the West," he attracted countless followers in his day. Many renowned figures followed his teachings and helped bring them to light, including Steve Jobs, George Harrison, Elvis Presley, and more.
Over three years and with the involvement of 30 countries, including the United States and India, the documentary delves into the world of yoga. The film also explores why an increasing number of people are directing their focus inwards and resisting the allure of materialism to seek fellowship through the pursuit of self-realization.
This feature-length documentary won awards at the Maui Film Festival and the Illuminate Film Festival.