Chandogya Upanishad

Chāndogya Upaniṣad (छान्दोग्य उपनिषद्) belongs to the Sāmaveda and forms the concluding portion of the Chāndogya Brāhmaṇa (also linked to the Tāṇḍya Mahābrāhmaṇa, Kauthuma recension). It is counted among the mukhya (principal) Upaniṣads. The text comprises eight chapters (pra-pāṭhakas) blending ritual exposition, narratives, and philosophical teaching.

The name Chāndogya derives from chandas (Vedic meter/hymn), reflecting its focus on Sāman (musical) chanting. The title also connotes instruction for chāndogas—adept chanters steeped in ritual recitation.

The Chandogya upanishad comprises eight chapters, which are in turn divided into shorter khāṇḍas (sections). The work moves from ritual symbolism and Sāman-centered meditations to more explicit teachings on Ātman and Brahman, gradually interiorizing ritual into upāsanā (contemplative practice).