Acharya Jonas Masetti, a Brazilian Acharya of Vedanta, has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu, recognizing his profound contributions to spiritualism. The award ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, celebrated Masetti’s role in spreading Vedanta, Sanskrit, and Vedic culture, particularly in Brazil, where he has emerged as a global representative of Indian philosophical traditions.
An Engineer Turned Spiritual Leader
Originally trained as a mechanical engineer at Brazil’s Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Masetti worked in stock market consulting before embracing Vedantic studies in 2004 under an Indian teacher. His passion led him to India, where he enrolled in an intensive three-year residential program at Arsha Vidya Gurukulam in Anaikatti, near Coimbatore. Guided by the esteemed Pujya Sri Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Masetti spent over four years deeply immersed in Vedanta, the Bhagavad Gita, and Sanskrit, shaping his spiritual journey.
Introducing Vedanta To Brazil
Determined to make Vedanta more accessible, Masetti founded the Instituto Vishva Vidya in the hills of Petrópolis, near Rio de Janeiro. This center has become a hub for spiritual learning, combining traditional teachings with modern technology. His initiatives—including online classes, structured courses, retreats, and publications—have impacted over 150,000 students, helping Vedanta transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Masetti’s innovative approach integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary tools, making spiritual teachings relevant to today’s seekers. His institute also promotes Indian heritage, including Sanskrit presentations of the Ramayana, reflecting his commitment to cultural exchange.
Acknowledgment From India
India has recognized Masetti’s contributions in expanding Vedic traditions globally. On May 27, 2025, he was conferred the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, for his dedication to spiritual education.
Masetti’s work has drawn attention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised his efforts in Mann Ki Baat in November 2020 for promoting Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita in Brazil. Modi met Masetti’s team in November 2024 during a visit to Brazil, where they showcased Sanskrit excerpts of the Ramayana. Modi later remarked on X, noting that Indian culture continues to make a global impact.
Strengthening Spiritual Ties Between India And Brazil
Masetti’s journey follows the footsteps of Swami Chinmayananda, who introduced Vedanta to Brazil in the 1970s. His vision for establishing Brazil’s spiritual legacy, combined with his Padma Shri recognition, highlights the growing global influence of Vedantic traditions.
Through his teachings, Masetti continues to bridge cultures and inspire thousands, emphasizing the timeless wisdom of Indian philosophy in a rapidly evolving world.
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
