Birthday: January 5, 1893
Introducing millions in the West to the teachings of meditation and Kriya Yoga through his influential book, "Autobiography of a Yogi." Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh in Gorakhpur, India, he showed an early interest in spirituality and met his guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar, at a young age. Yogananda's mission was to spread the ancient science of yoga and its universal teachings of self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in the United States and spent his life teaching and writing, leaving a lasting impact on the spiritual landscape of the 20th century.
This seminal work is one of the most acclaimed spiritual classics of the 20th century. In it, Yogananda shares his life story, spiritual experiences, and encounters with saints and sages of India. The book provides profound insights into the practice of Kriya Yoga and the universal truths underlying all religions. It has inspired countless readers worldwide and continues to be a vital resource for those seeking spiritual understanding and enlightenment.
Upon arriving in the United States in 1920, Yogananda established the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) to disseminate his teachings on meditation and Kriya Yoga. The SRF serves as a spiritual and educational organization dedicated to fostering greater understanding and practice of these ancient techniques. It has grown to include centers and meditation groups worldwide, providing resources and guidance to individuals seeking spiritual growth.
Yogananda was one of the first Indian spiritual teachers to live and teach in the West for an extended period. Through public lectures, classes, and personal instruction, he introduced Western audiences to the principles and practices of yoga and meditation. His work laid the foundation for the modern yoga movement and significantly influenced the acceptance and integration of Eastern spiritual practices in Western culture.
Yogananda founded several retreat centers, including the SRF Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades, California. These centers provide tranquil environments for individuals to deepen their meditation practice and experience spiritual renewal. The retreat centers continue to serve as vital sanctuaries for spiritual seekers, offering workshops, classes, and personal retreats.
One of Yogananda's most significant contributions was the dissemination of Kriya Yoga, an advanced spiritual technique that accelerates spiritual growth and self-realization. He trained many students in this method, which involves specific pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation practices. Kriya Yoga has been recognized for its effectiveness in harmonizing body, mind, and spirit, and remains a core practice within the SRF teachings.