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, Spiritual Teacher, Author
Early Life and Education
- Born Mukunda Lal Ghosh.
- Early interest in spiritual pursuits and seeking a guru.
- Graduated from Scottish Church College, Calcutta, with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Entered the monastic order of the Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri ashram.
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 in Boston.
- Established Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in 1920 to disseminate his teachings worldwide.
- Lectured extensively across the United States, teaching Kriya Yoga and principles of self-realization.
- Established a permanent headquarters for SRF in Los Angeles, California.
Notable Works
- Authored numerous books and articles on yoga, meditation, and spirituality.
- His most famous work is his spiritual classic, often sought after as an "autobiography of a yogi free download pdf", which has introduced millions to yoga and meditation.
- Established a series of lessons and correspondence courses for SRF members.
Legacy and Impact
Paramahansa Yogananda's legacy lies in his pioneering work in bringing yoga and meditation to the West. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential spiritual teachers of the 20th century, whose teachings continue to inspire individuals seeking self-realization and inner peace. His seminal work continues to be widely read and studied, influencing generations of spiritual seekers.
Notable Works
| Title | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Autobiography of a Yogi | 1946 | His most famous autobiographical and spiritual work. |
| Whispers from Eternity | 1929 | A collection of prayers and affirmations. |
| The Science of Religion | 1920 | Explores the common ground between science and religion. |