Shri Ramana Maharshi

This blog is about the life journey of Shri Ramana Maharshi, who was one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the 20th century. When I first came across the story of Shri Ramana Maharshi, I was so fascinated by his life journey and his teachings that, I could not think of anything else for many days. I was just absorbing everything that I had read about him.

Shri Ramana Maharshi’s story validates the sanskrit proverb, ‘Yatha Brahmande tatha pinde’ (यथा ब्रह्माण्डे तथा पिण्डे ) meaning; whatever is present in the universe, is also present in our body. It suggests a deep connection between the macrocosm and the microcosm, highlighting the inherent unity and interdependence between the outer world and our inner selves.

There is also a phrase in Shri Guru Granth Sahib, which conveys the same message. It says, ‘Jo Brahmande, soi pinde, jo khojey so paave’, meaning; ‘The one who seeks shall find, for what exists in the universe also resides within oneself’. This phrase emphasises that the vastness of the universe is open and accessible to anyone who desires to uncover the truth. Every individual possesses the freedom to explore and connect with the profound knowledge and wisdom that the universe holds.

PC: Google

Shri Ramana Maharshi was one of those awakened spiritual beings who were able to access the profound wisdom of the universe on their own. He is a spiritual leader from South India, who had a remarkable life and teachings that continue to inspire people worldwide, even today. Let's explore his journey and the wisdom he shared.

Early Life and Awakening

Shri Ramana Maharshi was born in 1879 in a small village called Tiruchuli in Tamil Nadu, India. Even as a child, he had a keen interest in spirituality and meditation. At the age of 16, something extraordinary happened to him. While sitting alone in a room, he felt a deep fear of death. Instead of letting it overwhelm him, he turned his attention inward and asked himself, "Who am I?" This question led to a profound realisation that he was not his body or thoughts, but a timeless and infinite consciousness.

Teachings

Shri Ramana Maharshi's teachings were simple yet profound. He emphasised the practice of self-inquiry, which involves asking oneself, "Who am I?" and turning inward to discover the true nature of the self. He taught that the true self is not the physical body or the mind, but an unchanging consciousness that exists in all beings.

Another important teaching of Shri Ramana Maharshi was ‘surrender’, the act of letting go of the ego and submitting to a higher power. He emphasised that surrender is not a weak or passive state but a transformative act that leads to spiritual liberation.

Shri Ramana Maharshi's teachings also included the ‘direct path’ to self-realisation. He encouraged individuals to immediately turn their attention inward to the true nature of the self, rather than relying on external practices or rituals. According to Shri Ramana Maharshi, this direct path is accessible to anyone, regardless of their background or spiritual progress.

Impact and Legacy

Shri Ramana Maharshi's teachings had a profound impact on spirituality in India and beyond. He inspired numerous seekers and spiritual leaders, and his teachings continue to influence modern spirituality and psychology. Many of his insights have been incorporated into contemporary practices like mindfulness meditation and self-inquiry.

Shri Ramana Maharshi's legacy is evident in the establishment of ashrams and centres dedicated to his teachings. The Ramana Maharshi Ashram in Tiruvannamalai, India, is a significant pilgrimage site where devotees gather to honour his teachings. His wisdom continues to inspire seekers from diverse backgrounds to explore the depths of their own consciousness and discover the true nature of the self.

Conclusion

Shri Ramana Maharshi was a compassionate and insightful spiritual leader. His teachings provide a path to self-realisation that is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. By emphasising self-inquiry and surrender, he offered a transformative journey to spiritual liberation. Shri Ramana Maharshi's legacy lives on, inspiring people worldwide to explore the true nature of the self and find peace and liberation through self-realisation.