Jonas Masetti, a Brazilian mechanical engineer turned spiritual teacher, has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award by the Indian government in 2025, recognizing his remarkable contributions to spreading Indian spirituality, particularly Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita, across the globe. Known as Acharya Vishvanath in spiritual circles, Masetti’s journey from a high-flying career in engineering to becoming an ambassador of Vedic culture is nothing short of inspiring.
From Brazil to Bharat: A Transformative Journey
Born in Brazil, Jonas Masetti once thrived in the corporate world, working with top companies as a mechanical engineer. However, despite professional success, he felt an inner void, yearning for a deeper meaning in life. This quest led him to India, where he immersed himself in the study of Vedanta, Sanskrit, and the Bhagavad Gita for four years. His time in India profoundly transformed his perspective, guiding him to embrace a life dedicated to sharing the wisdom of Indian scriptures. Masetti’s dedication culminated in the establishment of Vishva Vidya Gurukulam, an organization based in Petrópolis, near Rio de Janeiro, where he teaches Vedic philosophy to thousands.
Spreading Vedic Wisdom Globally
Through Vishva Vidya, Masetti has reached over 1.5 lakh students worldwide, offering accessible education on Vedanta, the Bhagavad Gita, Sanskrit, and Vedic traditions. His teachings emphasize Karma Yoga and living a dharmic life, helping individuals find inner peace and balance. Masetti’s translation of the Bhagavad Gita, a meticulous two-and-a-half-year endeavor, preserves the essence of the original text, making it relatable to a global audience. His innovative approach, blending technology with traditional wisdom, has garnered a following of over 5,00,000 on social media platforms. In 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Masetti in his Mann Ki Baat program, calling him an “ambassador of Vedic culture” for his efforts in popularizing Indian philosophy in Brazil.
A Recognition of Cultural Bridge-Building
The Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, was conferred on Masetti on January 25, 2025, acknowledging his role in promoting Indian spiritual traditions. Speaking to ANI, Masetti expressed gratitude, describing the award as a “great honor” that reassures his community in Brazil of their connection to India’s rich parampara. His work has not only fostered cultural exchange but also built a global community that values Vedic wisdom. Masetti’s recent initiatives include launching online Vedanta classes in San Francisco, offering a Western perspective to make these teachings accessible to diverse audiences.
A Living Testament to Sanatan Dharma
Masetti’s lifestyle barefoot, adorned with Rudraksha beads, and clad in simple cotton attire reflects his deep commitment to Indian spirituality. His meeting with PM Modi during the G20 Summit in Brazil, where his team presented glimpses of the Ramayan in Sanskrit, further highlighted his efforts to globalize Indian culture. Masetti’s story is a testament to the universal appeal of Sanatan Dharma, proving that the teachings of the Vedas and Gita transcend borders, resonating with seekers worldwide.
Inspiring a Global Spiritual Awakening
Jonas Masetti’s Padma Shri is not just a personal accolade but a recognition of the growing global influence of Indian philosophy. His journey inspires countless others to explore the timeless wisdom of Vedanta, fostering a deeper understanding of life’s purpose. As Masetti continues to build bridges between cultures, his work reaffirms the enduring relevance of India’s spiritual heritage.