Meher Baba

Meher Baba, born Merwan Sheriar Irani on February 25, 1894, in Pune, India, was a spiritual master, mystic, and Avatar (divine incarnation) revered by his followers as the Avatar of the Age. Here is a comprehensive biography of Meher Baba:

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening: Merwan Irani was born into a Zoroastrian family and raised in a cosmopolitan environment that exposed him to various religious and cultural influences. At the age of 19, he experienced a transformative spiritual awakening after meeting a spiritual master named Hazrat Babajan, a venerable Muslim saint, in Pune. This encounter marked the beginning of Merwan’s spiritual journey and his recognition of his divine mission. He then encountered Upasni Maharaj, who he later said helped him to integrate his mystical experiences with ordinary consciousness, thus enabling him to function in the world without diminishing his experience of God-realization.

Declaration of Avatarhood: In 1921, at the age of 27, Merwan Irani publicly declared himself to be the Avatar, the divine incarnation of God in human form. He took on the name Meher Baba, which means “Compassionate Father” in Persian, and began attracting disciples and followers who were drawn to his spiritual presence and teachings.

Silence and the Master’s Work: Meher Baba observed a vow of silence from July 10, 1925, until his passing in 1969, communicating primarily through an alphabet board, hand gestures, and facial expressions. Despite his silence, Meher Baba engaged in an extensive program of spiritual work, traveling extensively throughout India and other parts of the world to uplift humanity and promote spiritual awakening.

Spiritual Teachings and Philosophy: Meher Baba’s teachings emphasized the universality of love, the oneness of all life, and the importance of spiritual surrender to the divine will. He advocated the practice of selfless service, moral integrity, and inner sincerity as the means to realize one’s true nature and attain spiritual liberation. Meher Baba also introduced unique spiritual practices such as the “Mastery in Servitude” and the “Seven Realities of God.”

Universal Message and Humanity’s Spiritual Evolution: Meher Baba taught that all religions are true and that each serves as a different path leading to the same ultimate reality. He spoke of the evolution of consciousness and the gradual unfolding of humanity’s spiritual potential, culminating in the realization of divine unity and love. Meher Baba emphasized the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and selfless love in fostering harmony and unity among individuals and nations.

Legacy and Impact: Meher Baba’s teachings and spiritual legacy continue to inspire millions of people around the world. His followers, known as “Mandali” or “lovers of Meher Baba,” continue to honor his teachings and spread his message of love and unity through various service projects, spiritual gatherings, and publications. Meher Baba’s ashram, Meherabad, located near Ahmednagar in Maharashtra, India, serves as a spiritual center and pilgrimage site for devotees from all walks of life.

Mahasamadhi: Meher Baba dropped his physical body on January 31, 1969, at Meherazad, his residence near Pune, India. He had previously indicated that he would voluntarily leave his body as a final act of spiritual work. Meher Baba’s passing marked the end of his physical presence on Earth, but his spiritual presence continues to be felt by his devotees and spiritual seekers worldwide.