H.H. Sri Swami Krishnanandaji Maharaj

by Sri Swami Padmanabhanandaji Maharaj

Worshipful Sri Swami Krishnanandaji Maharaj, one of the foremost disciples of Gurudev Sri Swami Sivanandaji Maharaj, is known worldwide as a scholar-saint. He has guided and inspired countless spiritual seekers all over the world by his saintly life and oceanic wisdom.

At a very tender age, Sri Swamiji Maharaj studied Rigveda with intonation from his father in a traditional way. During his teen years, he had learned many scriptures by heart and acquired mastery over Indian philosophy. His intense thirst for knowledge made him study Western philosophy as well; and thus he shines as an eminent scholar of both Indian and Western philosophy.

Sri Swamiji Maharaj is well versed in the Sanskrit language and has composed many beautiful hymns and Stotras. He is also a supreme master of the English language. Sri Swamiji skillfully presents the pithy Upanishadic ideas in his unique and inimitable style. Sri Swamiji's books reveal his mastery over the subject handled, the depth of his knowledge and his unique style of presentation. He analyses the subject to a remarkable degree of thoroughness and explains the most abstract and subtle concepts in a logical and scientific way. He has given exhaustive commentaries on the Srimad Bhagavadgita, Patanjali Sutras, the Upanishads, and various other scriptures. Sri Gurudev himself remarked about his illustrious disciple, “Many Sankaras are rolled into one Krishnananda.”

Sri Swamiji could give an inspiring and authoritative talk on any philosophical text extempore. His spontaneous talks reflected his vast knowledge, literary brilliance and marvellous oratory skills.

As the General Secretary of the Divine Life Society Headquarters, Sri Swamiji rendered yeoman service to the Ashram for more than forty years. Like an able administrator, he regulated and systematized all the activities of Ashram which are continuing to this day in the same systematic manner as initiated by Pujya Swamiji. Besides attending to his strenuous duties of the Ashram, Sri Swamiji has lovingly guided the genuine seekers of the world and transformed their lives.

Sri Swamiji Maharaj's noble life epitomizes 'Integral Yoga' of Sri Gurudev as he was a Jnana Yogi, Karma Yogi, Raja Yogi and a great Bhakta. His sublime life and teachings are a perennial source of inspiration for one and all.

May the benign grace of Worshipful Sri Swami Krishnanandaji Maharaj be ever upon all.

Swami Padmanabhananda
General Secretary
Shivanandanagar
7th July 2018