The following 3 talks with Ramana Maharshi on the need for solitude in order to meditate and self-reflect, have been taken from the book: Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi
– Sri Ramana Maharshi
First Talk with Ramana Maharshi on Solitude
Mr. Evans-Wentz (Devotee): Is solitude necessary for a Jnani?
Ramana Maharshi: Solitude is in the mind of man. One might be in the thick of the world and maintain serenity of mind; such a one is in solitude. Another may stay in a forest, but still be unable to control his mind. He cannot be said to be in solitude. Solitude is a function of the mind. A man attached to desire cannot get solitude wherever he may be; a detached man is always in solitude.
Mr. Evans-Wentz (Devotee): So then, one might be engaged in work and be free from desire and keep up solitude. Is it so?
Ramana Maharshi: Yes. Work performed with attachment is a shackle, whereas work performed with detachment does not affect the doer. He is, even while working, in solitude.
Source: Talk #20 in the book, Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi
Second Talk with Ramana Maharshi on Solitude
Mr. Ekanath Rao, an Engineer, asked Sri Bhagavan if solitude is necessary for vichara (contemplation, self-reflection & introspection).
Ramana Maharshi: There is solitude everywhere. The individual is solitary always. His business is to find it out within, and not seek it without.
Mr. Ekanath Rao (Devotee): The work-a-day world is distracting.
Ramana Maharshi: Do not allow yourself to be distracted. Enquire for whom there is distraction. It will not afflict you after a little practice.
Mr. Ekanath Rao (Devotee): Even the attempt is impossible.
Ramana Maharshi: Make it and it will be found not so difficult.
Source: Talk #44 in the book, Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi
Third Talk with Ramana Maharshi on Solitude
Devotee: Is solitude helpful for practice?
Ramana Maharshi: What do you mean by solitude?
Devotee: To keep away from others.
Ramana Maharshi: Why should it be done? It is actuated only by fear. Even in solitude there is the fear of intrusion by others and of solitude being spoilt. Moreover, how are thoughts to be erased in solitude? Should it not be done in the present environment?
Devotee: But the mind is distracted now.
Ramana Maharshi: Why do you let go the mind? Solitude amounts to making the mind still. This can be done in a crowd too. Solitude cannot efface one’s thoughts. Practice does it. The same practice can be made here too.
Source: Talk #156 in the book, Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi
