Paramahansa Yogananda
- Born:
- January 5, 1893, Gorakhpur, British India
- Died:
- March 7, 1952, Los Angeles, California, United States
- Nationality:
- Indian
- Profession(s):
- Yogi, Guru, Spiritual Teacher, Author
Early Life and Education
- Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh, he displayed early spiritual inclinations.
- Received training in various branches of yoga from numerous gurus.
- Graduated from Scottish Church College, Calcutta, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1915.
- Took formal vows as a monk of the Swami Order, becoming Paramahansa Yogananda.
Career and Major Achievements
- Founded Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS) in 1917 to disseminate his teachings.
- Traveled to the United States in 1920 as India's delegate to the International Congress of Religious Liberals.
- Established Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in 1920 to spread his yoga teachings worldwide.
- Lectured extensively across America, attracting large audiences.
- Founded a hermitage and retreat in Encinitas, California, in 1936.
- Met with prominent figures like President Calvin Coolidge, Luther Burbank, and opera singer Amelita Galli-Curci.
Notable Works
- Whispers from Eternity (1929)
- Scientific Healing Affirmations (1924)
- Autobiography of a Yogi (1946) - A widely acclaimed spiritual classic. Many seek out an autobiography of a yogi pdf online.
- God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita (1960)
Legacy and Impact
Paramahansa Yogananda played a significant role in introducing yoga and meditation to the West. His teachings emphasized the unity of all religions and the importance of self-realization through Kriya Yoga. His work continues to inspire spiritual seekers worldwide through Self-Realization Fellowship and Yogoda Satsanga Society of India.