Yogananda Paramhansa

Paramahansa Yogananda, born Mukunda Lal Ghosh on January 5, 1893, in Gorakhpur, India, was a renowned yogi, spiritual teacher, and author who introduced millions of Westerners to the teachings of yoga and meditation. Here is a comprehensive biography of Paramahansa Yogananda:

Early Life and Education: Mukunda Lal Ghosh was born into a devout Bengali family. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in spirituality and the mystical teachings of the East. He was deeply influenced by his mother’s devout nature and her stories of saints and sages.

Meeting His Guru: In 1910, at the age of 17, Yogananda met his guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri, who would become his spiritual mentor and guide. Under Sri Yukteswar’s tutelage, Yogananda received training in yoga, meditation, and Vedanta philosophy.

Spiritual Journey in India: Yogananda spent several years traveling throughout India, deepening his spiritual practice and gaining insights into the mystical traditions of the East. He studied under various spiritual masters and became proficient in the practices of Kriya Yoga, a powerful meditation technique that he would later popularize in the West.

Journey to America: In 1920, at the behest of his guru, Yogananda traveled to the United States to spread the teachings of yoga and Vedanta in the West. He founded the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in Los Angeles, California, with the mission of disseminating his teachings and fostering spiritual growth and self-realization.

Writing and Publications: Yogananda authored several books, including his seminal work, “Autobiography of a Yogi,” which was published in 1946. The book became an instant classic and has since been translated into numerous languages, inspiring millions of readers worldwide with its profound insights and spiritual wisdom.

Establishment of SRF/YSS: Yogananda established the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) as a spiritual organization dedicated to disseminating his teachings and providing resources for spiritual seekers. He also founded the Yogoda Satsanga Society (YSS) in India to serve the spiritual needs of his followers in his homeland.

Teachings and Philosophy: Yogananda’s teachings are based on the principles of Kriya Yoga, which he described as a scientific method for attaining direct experience of God. He emphasized the universality of religion and the importance of self-realization as the ultimate goal of human life. Yogananda taught that by cultivating inner peace, love, and wisdom through meditation and self-discipline, individuals could overcome suffering and attain spiritual liberation.

Legacy and Influence: Paramahansa Yogananda’s teachings have had a profound impact on millions of people around the world. His emphasis on the practical application of yoga and meditation in daily life, as well as his vision of a universal spiritual brotherhood, continue to inspire seekers of all backgrounds and faiths. The Self-Realization Fellowship and the Yogoda Satsanga Society, founded by Yogananda, continue to carry on his legacy, providing spiritual guidance, education, and support to countless individuals worldwide. Steve Job used to read his book ‘Autobiography of a Yogi’ every year and in his funeral every guest received a copy of this book as per his wishes.

Mahasamadhi: Paramahansa Yogananda passed away on March 7, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, during a lecture on the Bhagavad Gita. His body was reported to have remained in a state of incorruptibility for several weeks after his death, a phenomenon considered by many of his followers to be a sign of his spiritual attainment. Yogananda’s teachings and legacy continue to inspire seekers on the path of self-realization and spiritual awakening.