Gurudev Paramahamsa Hariharananda was born as Rabindranath on May 27, 1907, in Bengal, India, into a spiritually inclined family. From an early age, Rabi was immersed in religious teachings and rituals, learning the sacred pooja mantras and beginning his spiritual journey under the guidance of his father, who initiated him at the age of eight. Despite his profound spiritual aspirations, Rabi excelled academically and went on to become a textile engineer, showcasing a balanced blend of worldly and spiritual pursuits.
Rabi’s life took a significant turn when he met Sri Bijaya Krishna Chattopadhyay, a realized master who directed him to Swami Shriyukteshwar Giri, an eminent Kriya Yoga teacher. Under Swami Shriyukteshwar’s guidance, Rabi was initiated into the sacred path of Kriya Yoga and continued his intensive sadhana under his master’s direct mentorship.
In 1932, Rabi made the life-altering decision to move to Puri, renouncing worldly attachments to deepen his spiritual practice. Following the mahasamadhi of Swami Shriyukteshwar, Rabi’s sadhana was further enriched by the guidance of other great Kriya Yoga masters, including Paramahamsa Yogananda, Swami Satyananda Giri, and Sri Sanyal Mahasaya, from whom he learned advanced Kriya Yoga techniques. During his years of deep spiritual practice, he received blessings from notable spiritual figures such as Totapuri Maharaj and Anandamayi Ma. His devotion and relentless practice culminated in the attainment of nirvikalpa samadhi—the highest state of consciousness—and divine visions of Mother Kali and Mahavatar Babaji.
Swami Bharati Krishna Tirtha, the Shankaracharya of Puri, initiated Rabi into the path of sannyasa, bestowing upon him the monastic name Swami Hariharananda Giri. With a profound sense of duty, Gurudev Hariharananda began teaching Kriya Yoga to sincere seekers, guiding them toward self-realization and spiritual fulfillment.
In 1974, Gurudev embarked on a monumental journey to the West, bringing the sacred teachings of Kriya Yoga to Europe and the Americas. His travels marked a new era of spiritual outreach as he founded ashrams in Austria, the Netherlands, and the USA. These centers served as sanctuaries for individuals to learn and practice Kriya Yoga meditation, fostering communities of spiritual growth.
Beyond establishing ashrams, Gurudev’s mission inspired the creation of numerous meditation centers, promoting group meditation and collective spiritual practice. His public talks, writings, and interviews resonated with practical insights into the path of yoga, offering guidance and wisdom to countless souls worldwide. His enlightening books and discourses became valuable resources for those seeking deeper understanding.
As a true spiritual luminary, Gurudev tirelessly served humanity, dedicating his life to uplifting people in all aspects. He personally initiated thousands into Kriya Yoga and guided them along their spiritual paths. His teachings and exemplary life set an enduring standard for his students and his successor, Paramahamsa Prajnanananda, who continues to spread Gurudev’s loving message to the world.
Paramahamsa Hariharananda’s legacy is alive in the hearts of his students and through the continued work of Paramahamsa Prajnanananda. His journey stands as a testament to a life devoted to the betterment of humanity, embodying divine love, wisdom, and selfless service. Gurudev’s mission continues to inspire and guide countless individuals toward inner peace and spiritual enlightenment, even beyond his mahasamadhi in 2002.
My whole life has been dedicated to serving people. As Hariharananda, I give medicines and services to the sick, food to the hungry, education to children, courage to the depressed and spiritual guidance to those who ask.
