Paramahansa Yogananda

Born:

January 5, 1893, Gorakhpur, British India

Died:

March 7, 1952, Los Angeles, California, United States

Nationality:

Indian, American

Profession(s):

Yogi, Guru, Author, Religious Leader

Early Life and Education

• Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh.
• Early interest in spiritual pursuits and seeking a guru.
• Educated at Scottish Church College, Calcutta, graduating with a degree.
• Formally initiated into the Swami Order in 1915 by his guru, Sri Yukteswar Giri.

Career and Major Achievements

• Founded Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (YSS) in 1917.
• Traveled to the United States in 1920 to speak at the International Congress of Religious Liberals.
• Established Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in Los Angeles in 1925.
• Lectured extensively throughout the United States, promoting Kriya Yoga and Eastern spiritual philosophies.
• Built Self-Realization Fellowship international headquarters in Los Angeles.
• One of the first Indian gurus to reside permanently in America and disseminate yoga principles widely.

Notable Works

• Whispers from Eternity
• Songs of the Soul
• Scientific Healing Affirmations
• The Law of Success
• Metaphysical Meditations

Legacy and Impact

Paramahansa Yogananda significantly impacted the Western world's understanding and practice of yoga and meditation. His teachings on Kriya Yoga and self-realization continue to inspire spiritual seekers globally. Many readers encountered his teachings through his seminal work, referred to as 'alexis belonio autobiography of a yogi', although officially titled Autobiography of a Yogi, which remains a widely read and influential spiritual classic. He played a crucial role in bridging Eastern and Western spiritual traditions.

Notable Works

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