Meeting Seshadri Swami
Seshadri Swami, another great sage living at Arunachala, recognized the young Venkataraman's spiritual state and protected him during his early days at the mountain.
Seshadri Swami, another great sage living at Arunachala, recognized the young Venkataraman's spiritual state and protected him during his early days at the mountain.
The first days at Arunachaleswara Temple were marked by complete absorption in the Self. The young sage remained motionless, unaware of his body or surroundings.
Alagammal, Ramana Maharshi's mother, attained complete Self-realization and passed away in a state of liberation. Her samadhi became the site of Ramanasramam.
After moving to Skandashram, Ramana Maharshi lived with his mother and close devotees in a simple, spiritual environment that became a model for ashram life.
Ramana Maharshi's mother, Alagammal, came to Arunachala after hearing about her son's transformation. She too would eventually attain Self-realization.
Ganapati Muni, a great scholar and poet, came to the young sage and recognized him as Bhagavan Ramana Maharshi. This meeting was significant for both.
When devotees first began asking questions, the young sage would answer with simple, direct words that pointed always to the Self. These early dialogues laid the foundation for his teachings.
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.
Virupaksha Cave became the young sage's first proper abode on Arunachala. Here, he would spend several years in deep meditation, establishing his life as a realized sage.
At the age of sixteen, Venkataraman experienced a profound transformation that would change his life forever. While sitting alone in his uncle's house in Madurai, a sudden and intense fear of death overwhelmed him.
Leaving behind his family and worldly attachments, the young Venkataraman felt an irresistible pull toward the sacred mountain of Arunachala. Without informing anyone, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to his final abode.
Venkataraman was born in the small village of Tiruchuzhi in Tamil Nadu. His early years were marked by an ordinary childhood, though signs of his spiritual nature were already present.
Venkataraman's school years in Dindigul were unremarkable academically, but they laid the foundation for the profound spiritual transformation that was to come.
The moment that changed everything began with an intense fear of death. Instead of running from it, the young Venkataraman faced it directly, leading to Self-realization.
Without telling anyone, the young sage left his home, leaving behind only a brief note. This act of complete surrender marked the beginning of his life as a renunciate.
The journey from Madurai to Tiruvannamalai was not just a physical journey, but a spiritual pilgrimage that would culminate in the young sage's arrival at his destined abode.
From the temple, the young sage moved to Patala Lingam, an underground shrine, where he continued his deep absorption in the Self, away from the distractions of the temple.
The first devotees who came to the young sage at Virupaksha Cave were drawn by his silent presence and the profound peace they experienced in his company.
Though the young sage was born in Tamil Nadu, he had to learn to read and write Tamil properly to communicate with devotees and to compose his spiritual works.
Ramana Maharshi composed beautiful hymns to Arunachala, expressing his love and devotion to the sacred mountain that was both his Guru and his abode.
After his mother's passing, Ramanasramam was established at the site of her samadhi. This would become the permanent home of Ramana Maharshi and a center for spiritual seekers.
As word spread about Ramana Maharshi, Western seekers began to arrive at Arunachala. Paul Brunton was among the first, and his book introduced the sage to the Western world.
Life at Ramanasramam followed a simple, regular routine centered around meditation, self-inquiry, and service. The sage's presence was the heart of this routine.
In his final years, Ramana Maharshi continued to teach through his presence, even as his body showed signs of illness. His realization remained unshaken until the end.
Even in his last days, Ramana Maharshi remained completely established in the Self. His presence continued to radiate peace, and he continued to guide devotees until the very end.
After Ramana Maharshi left the body, his teachings continued to spread throughout the world. His legacy lives on through his words, his presence, and the countless seekers he has inspired.
Sundaram Iyer, Ramana Maharshi's father, was a respected lawyer who instilled values of honesty and integrity in his children. Though he passed away when Venkataraman was young, his influence remained.
When Venkataraman left home, his brother Nagaswami searched for him but could not find him. Years later, he would come to understand and accept his brother's spiritual path.
During his journey to Arunachala, Venkataraman removed his sacred thread, symbolizing his complete renunciation of all social and religious identifications.
The thousand-pillared hall of Arunachaleswara Temple was where the young Venkataraman first sat in deep meditation upon arriving at Tiruvannamalai. This hall became a sacred space for his initial absorption in the Self.
The method taught by Ramana Maharshi is deceptively simple yet profoundly powerful: continuously ask 'Who am I?' and trace the source of the 'I' thought back to its origin in the Heart.
Many visitors came to Ramana Maharshi seeking answers to their questions, but often found that his silence spoke more powerfully than any words. His presence itself was the teaching.
The question 'Who am I?' is not just a philosophical inquiry, but a direct method to realize the Self. Ramana Maharshi taught this as the simplest and most direct path.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the mind is nothing but a collection of thoughts, and the root of all thoughts is the 'I' thought. When the 'I' thought is destroyed, the mind is destroyed.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the Heart is not the physical heart, but the spiritual Heart, which is the Self. It is the source of the 'I' thought and the abode of the Self.
Along with self-inquiry, Ramana Maharshi taught surrender as a path to Self-realization. Complete surrender to the Self leads to the same goal as self-inquiry.
The ego is the false identification with the body and mind. Ramana Maharshi taught that the ego must be destroyed through self-inquiry, revealing the true Self.
Ramana Maharshi taught that meditation should be on the Self, not on external objects. The best meditation is self-inquiry, which leads directly to the Self.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the world appears real only because of the 'I' thought. When the 'I' thought is destroyed, the world is seen to be an illusion, and only the Self remains.
Ramana Maharshi taught that both grace and self-effort are necessary for Self-realization. Self-effort opens the door, and grace enters.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the Guru is not separate from the Self. The Guru is the Self, and the Self is the Guru. The external Guru points to the internal Guru.
Ramana Maharshi taught that karma and destiny are real, but they affect only the body and mind, not the Self. The Self is beyond karma and destiny.
Ramana Maharshi taught that reincarnation is real, but it applies only to the body and mind, not to the Self. The Self is eternal and does not reincarnate.
Ramana Maharshi taught about the three states - waking, dream, and deep sleep - and how the Self is the witness of all three states, transcending them all.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the path of knowledge, or Jnana Yoga, is the direct path to Self-realization. Self-inquiry is the essence of the path of knowledge.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the path of devotion, or Bhakti Yoga, is equally valid and leads to the same goal. Surrender is the essence of the path of devotion.
Surrender means giving up the sense of doership and recognizing that everything happens according to the will of the Self. This complete surrender leads to Self-realization.
Ramana Maharshi emphasized the importance of continuous practice. Self-inquiry must be practiced constantly, not just during meditation, but throughout the day.
Ramana Maharshi taught about the obstacles on the spiritual path and how to overcome them. The main obstacle is the mind itself, which must be transcended through self-inquiry.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the goal of spiritual practice is not to achieve something new, but to realize what is already there - the Self, which is one's true nature.
Ramana Maharshi emphasized the simplicity of the path to Self-realization. The method is simple - just ask 'Who am I?' - but it requires sincerity and persistence.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is universal, transcending all religions and philosophies. It points directly to the Self, which is the same in all.
Ramana Maharshi taught the direct path to Self-realization, without the need for intermediate steps or external aids. Self-inquiry goes straight to the source.
Ramana Maharshi taught that the Guru is essential for Self-realization. The Guru's role is to point the disciple to the Self and to remove the obstacles.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching has the power to transform lives. It has helped countless seekers realize the Self and find lasting peace and happiness.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is timeless, as relevant today as it was when he first taught it. The Self is eternal, and the path to realize it is eternal.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is practical and can be practiced in daily life. It does not require one to renounce the world or to live in isolation.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is complete and covers all aspects of spiritual life. It provides both the method and the goal, the path and the destination.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is marked by clarity and simplicity. He expressed the deepest spiritual truths in the simplest possible language.
Despite its simplicity, Ramana Maharshi's teaching has great depth. It addresses the deepest questions of human existence and provides the ultimate answer.
Ramana Maharshi's teaching is not just words, but a living transmission. His presence itself was the teaching, and it continues to inspire seekers today.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Daily Life at Ramanasramam was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Meditation Hall was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Library was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Kitchen was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Cowshed was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Garden was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Morning Meditation was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Evening Satsang was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Dining Hall was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Visitors from Afar was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Routine was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Festivals at the Ashram was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Animals was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Children was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Workers was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Atmosphere was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Buildings was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Expansion was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram Today was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Life at Ramanasramam was marked by simplicity, devotion, and the constant presence of Ramana Maharshi. Preserving the Legacy was an integral part of this sacred environment.
Palaniswami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Ganapati Muni was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Muruganar was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Annamalai Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Papaji was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Major Chadwick was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Paul Brunton was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Arthur Osborne was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
S. S. Cohen was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Dilip Kumar Roy was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Mouni Sadhu was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Niranjanananda Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Chinnaswami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Kunju Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Lakshmana Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Viswanatha Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Sadananda Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Ramanananda Swami was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Sundaresa Iyer was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Nagamma was one of the many devotees who came to Ramana Maharshi and found transformation through his presence and teachings.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Healing Touch was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Materialization of Objects was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Reading Thoughts was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Knowing the Future was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Protection from Danger was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Curing Diseases was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Material Needs Fulfilled was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Spiritual Experiences was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Visions of the Sage was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Dreams and Guidance was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Power of Presence was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Transformation of Devotees was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Ashram's Protection was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. Divine Interventions was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Many devotees experienced what they considered miracles in the presence of Ramana Maharshi. The Eternal Presence was one such experience that demonstrated the power of the Self.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Power of Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. Giri Pradakshina reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Five Hymns reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Significance of the Hill reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. Arunachala as Guru reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Sacred Geometry reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Energy of the Mountain reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. Pilgrimage to Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Temple and the Sage reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Caves of Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Legends of Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. Arunachala in Scriptures reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Call of Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. Arunachala's Protection reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Arunachala holds a unique place in spiritual tradition. The Eternal Arunachala reveals the deep spiritual significance of this sacred mountain.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on suffering point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on happiness point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on peace point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on love point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on death point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on life's purpose point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on relationships point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on work point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on success point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on failure point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on the present moment point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on detachment point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
Ramana Maharshi's teachings on contentment point to the Self as the source of all understanding and the answer to all questions.
No read stories yet. Start reading to see them here!
No favorite stories yet. Click the heart icon to add favorites!