The Name Ramana Maharshi

The name Ramana was given to the young sage by devotees, though he himself had no interest in names or identities. He was simply the Self.

During the early years on Arunachala, those who came to see him addressed him in different ways. Many temple workers and visitors called him Brahmana Swami. Others referred to him simply as Swami. There was no uniform usage, and no name was fixed.

At this time, Ganapati Muni, a Sanskrit scholar and poet, was living on Arunachala. He visited Virupaksha Cave and observed the young ascetic who stayed there. He spent time in his presence and returned again on later occasions.

Ganapati Muni began addressing him as Ramana. He used this name consistently in speech and in his writings. Those who were associated with Ganapati Muni gradually adopted the same usage.

In the years that followed, the title Maharshi was added by visitors and devotees who regarded Ganapati Muni as a learned authority. The combined name Ramana Maharshi came into use gradually, without announcement or ceremony.

He himself showed no interest in the name. He did not introduce himself by it, nor did he discourage its use. People addressed him as they wished, and the usage settled naturally over time.