Paramahansa Yogananda: The Father of Yoga in the West

Jul 26, 2018 | Views: 6,173

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Paramahansa Yogananda was an Indian saint and yogi who introduced the ancient teachings of Kriya Yoga to the world. He is often regarded as “the Father of Yoga in the West.” More than a century after his birth, Yogananda is still considered among the greatest emissaries of ancient Indian wisdom in the world. His work touched the lives of millions from various faiths, backgrounds, races, and nationalities.

Yogananda’s famous “Autobiography of a Yogi” continues to inspire and attract spiritual seekers to India’s ancient practice of Kriya Yoga and the underlying universal unity among the world’s greatest religions.

 

Early Life

On 5th January 1893, Yogananda was born in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh State, to a well-to-do and spiritually inclined Hindu family. His father, Bhagabati Charan Ghosh, was an executive at Bengal-Nagpur Railway and his mother was Gyana Prabha Ghosh. Both were sincere disciples of Lahiri Mahasaya, a renowned Kriya Yoga master in India. The fourth of eight children, his parents named him Mukunda Lal Ghosh.

Yogananda’s parents, Bhagabati Charan Ghosh (left) and Paramhansa Prabha Ghosh (right)

Yogananda’s parents, Bhagabati Charan Ghosh (left) and Gyana Prabha Ghosh (right)

When Yogananda was still an infant, his mother had two unusual experiences. The first occurred when she brought the baby Yogananda with her to an audience with Lahiri Mahasaya. Her spiritual teacher placed the infant in his lap and then predicted Yogananda’s extraordinary future:

“Little mother, thy son will be a yogi. As a spiritual engine, he will carry many souls to God’s kingdom.”

Source: om-guru.com

Yogananda when he was six years old

Yogananda when he was six years old

The second unusual event occurred when a wandering sadhu visited and foretold that a silver amulet would miraculously materialise in Yogananda’s mother’s hand during a meditation session and that she would die young. The sadhu also advised Yogananda’s mother to arrange for the amulet to be passed to Yogananda one year after her death.

When Yogananda reached the tender age of 11, the sadhu’s prediction came true. His profound grief over his mother’s passing sparked his interest in the practice of spiritual discipline and the path of self-realisation.

A year later, one of Yogananda’s brothers revealed that their mother had entrusted him with an amulet before she died. True to her instructions, he gave it to Yogananda a year after her passing. When Yogananda received it, he was overwhelmed by the experience of a “blaze of illumination” [Source: om-guru.com] and the awakening of many dormant memories. He was convinced that the powerful magical silver amulet was a gift from the teachers of his former lives.

The young Yogananda with one of his brothers, Ananta

The young Yogananda with one of his brothers, Ananta

Yogananda’s spiritual inclination was apparent to those around him from an early age. One of his younger siblings, Sananda, recalled that “from his earliest years, young Mukunda’s awareness and experience of the spiritual was far beyond the ordinary.” [Source: poemhunter.com]

Yogananda is said to have possessed psychic powers as a child. He had little interest in his secular education and always tried to find ways to do as little academic work as possible. At one point, while he was still in college, he decided to go to the Himalayas on a pilgrimage. However, one of his brothers found out and brought him back home.

 

Meeting His Teacher and Spiritual Training

In his quest to find a spiritual guide, Yogananda visited many holy men in India. This search eventually led him to meet with his true master, Swami Yukteswar Giri, in 1910. For Yogananda, the meeting with Giri was like rekindling an old relationship, one that encompassed many lifetimes.

“We entered a oneness of silence; words seemed the rankest superfluities. Eloquence flowed in soundless chant from heart of master to disciple. With an antenna of irrefragable insight I sensed that my guru knew God, and would lead me to Him. The obscuration of this life disappeared in a fragile dawn of prenatal memories. Dramatic time! Past, present, and future are its cycling scenes. This was not the first sun to find me at these holy feet!”

Source: Wikipedia.org

At their first meeting, Giri predicted that Yogananda’s great destiny would be to spread the ancient practice of Kriya Yoga in the United States and other places in the world.

“Some day you will go to the West. Its people will lend ears more receptive to India’s ancient wisdom if the strange Hindu teacher has a university degree.”

Source: hindustantimes.com

Yogananda was 17 years old and still in Serampore College when he met his master. Fortunately, the college was close to his master’s Serampore ashram. He would study intensively under Giri’s loving but strict guidance for the next 10 years.

The 16-year-old Yogananda

The 16-year-old Yogananda

Known as “the mad monk” among his schoolmates because he spent more time on his meditation practice and spiritual work than on his studies, Yogananda called his graduation in 1915 a miracle. He attributed his academic success to Giri who often took the necessary steps to ensure Yogananda passed his examinations.

Once done with school, he entered the Swami Order where he was given the name Yogananda. “Yoga” means “divine union”, and “Ananda” means “bliss”. He became known as Swami Yogananda Giri.

The practice of Kriya Yoga that Yogananda received from Swami Yukteswar Giri had the following spiritual lineage:

 

Mahavatar Babaji

Mahavatar Babaji was a great master who lived in the Himalayas. He was responsible for reviving the practice of Kriya Yoga that had previously been lost “due to priestly secrecy and man’s indifference.” “Mahavatar” means “the great avatar”, and “Babaji” means “the revered father”.

It is said that Lord Jesus Christ appeared to Babaji and told him that his followers had forgotten how to commune with him through meditation. Jesus advised Babaji “to send someone to the West to remind his people that the goal of life is to become one with God through inner communion.” [Source: paramhansayogananda.com]

That person was Yogananda. One of Mahavatar Babaji’s chief disciples was Lahiri Mahasaya.

 

Lahiri Mahasaya (1828–1895)

Lahiri Mahasaya worked as an accountant by day and taught his disciples by night. He is known for spreading the Kriya Yoga meditation practice that was previously only known to those who were spiritually advanced. Lahiri Mahasaya taught Yukteswar Giri and both of Yogananda’s parents.

 

Yukteswar Giri (1855-1936)

Yukteswar Giri was a renowned disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya and a great Kriya Yoga master in his own right. He was known both for his strict discipline and as Yogananda’s teacher.

Mahavatar Babaji (left) and Lahiri Mahasaya (right)

Mahavatar Babaji (left), Lahiri Mahasaya (middle), and Yukteswar Giri (right)

 

Yogananda’s Spiritual Experiences

Yukteswar Giri’s seaside hermitage in Puri

Yukteswar Giri’s seaside hermitage in Puri

Under Yukteswar Giri’s loving guidance, Yogananda’s Kriya Yoga practice flourished. He spent the majority of his time in his master’s ashram doing intensive meditation practice. During this time, Yogananda went to the Himalayan mountains without his teacher’s permission. Realising his mistake, he returned to his teacher’s ashram and apologised. After this incident, he continued his meditation practice, but had difficulties controlling his thoughts.

Through his clairvoyance, Yukteswar Giri knew the challenges that Yogananda was going through and called Yogananda to see him. Yukteswar Giri expressed his sympathies and assured Yogananda that he would achieve his heart’s desire. The great master then struck Yogananda on his chest just above the heart, giving him an extraordinary experience:

“My body became immovably rooted; breath was drawn out of my lungs as if by some strange magnet. Soul and mind instantly lost their physical bondage and streamed out like a fluid piercing light from my every pore. The flesh was as though dead, yet in my intense awareness, I knew that I had never been so fully alive. My sense of identity was no longer narrowly confined to a body but embraced the circumambient atoms.”

Source: om-guru.com

 

The Long-Awaited Vision

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In 1917, Yogananda established a school for boys, called Yogoda Satsanga Vidyalaya, in Dihika, West Bengal. The school curriculum was unique because it combined academic education with spiritual ideals and yoga training. Within a year, his work impressed the Maharajah of Kasimbazar so much that he decided to gift Yogananda his summer palace and 25 acres of land at Ranchi, which is about 250 miles from Calcutta. The school relocated to Ranchi where Mahatma Gandhi visited several years later and made his famous remark, “This institution has deeply impressed my mind.” [Source: awaken.com]

Three years later, Yogananda received a divine vision while meditating on the school premises that told him it was time to start his work in the West. He immediately left for Calcutta where he received an invitation to join an Indian delegation that would participate in the International Congress of Religions in Boston later that year.

Sensing that this would be an important start for his mission, Yogananda checked with his teacher, Yukteswar Giri, who confirmed Yogananda’s conviction and said, “All doors are open for you. It is now or never.” [Source: yogananda-srf.org]

Before he left for Boston, Mahavatar Babaji appeared to him in a vision and said:

“You are the one I have chosen to spread the message of Kriya Yoga in the West. Long ago I met your guru Yukteswar at a Kumbha Mela; I told him then I would send you to him for training. Kriya Yoga, the scientific technique of God-realisation, will ultimately spread in all lands, and aid in harmonising the nations through man’s personal, transcendental perception of the Infinite Father.”

Source: awaken.com

Later that year, Yogananda sailed to the United States with his teacher’s blessing to fulfil his destiny.

A group of Ranchi students and teachers with the Maharaja of Kasimbazar (at center, in white). The Maharajah of Kasimbazar gave Yogananda his summer palace and 25 acres of land at Ranchi, for his school, Yogoda Satsanga Vidyalaya

A group of Ranchi students and teachers with the Maharaja of Kasimbazar (centre, in white). The Maharajah of Kasimbazar gave Yogananda his summer palace and 25 acres of land at Ranchi, for his school, Yogoda Satsanga Vidyalaya.

The central building of the Yogoda Sat-Sanga Brahmacharya Vidyalaya at Ranchi, Bihar

The central building of the Yogoda Satsanga Vidyalaya at Ranchi, Bihar.

 

Spreading Eastern Spirituality in the West

A ship named City of Sparta brought Yogananda to Boston where he gave his maiden speech on the Science of Religion. A naturally gifted orator, Yogananda’s address was very well-received. In that same year, Yogananda established the Self-Realization Fellowship in Boston with the help of his earliest students in the United States, Dr M. W. Lewis and his wife, and Mrs Alice Hassey. The objective of the Self-Realization Fellowship was to spread the practice and teachings of ancient Indian meditation and yoga.

Yogananda (centre) and the other delegates at the International Congress of Religions in Boston

Yogananda (centre) and the other delegates at the International Congress of Religions in Boston

Yogananda wrote that the objectives of the Self-Realization Fellowship and Yogoda Satsanga Society are:

  • To disseminate among the nations a knowledge of definite scientific techniques for attaining direct personal experience of God.
  • To teach that the purpose of life is the evolution, through self-effort, of man’s limited mortal consciousness into God Consciousness; and to this end to establish Self-Realization Fellowship temples for God-communion throughout the world, and to encourage the establishment of individual temples of God in the homes and in the hearts of men.
  • To reveal the complete harmony and basic oneness of original Christianity as taught by Jesus Christ and original Yoga as taught by Bhagavan Krishna; and to show that these principles of truth are the common scientific foundation of all true religions.
  • To point out the one divine highway to which all paths of true religious beliefs eventually lead: the highway of daily, scientific, devotional meditation on God.
  • To liberate man from his threefold suffering: physical disease, mental inharmonies, and spiritual ignorance.
  • To encourage “plain living and high thinking”; and to spread a spirit of brotherhood among all peoples by teaching the eternal basis of their unity: kinship with God.
  • To demonstrate the superiority of mind over body, of soul over mind.
  • To overcome evil by good, sorrow by joy, cruelty by kindness, ignorance by wisdom.
  • To unite science and religion through realisation of the unity of their underlying principles.
  • To advocate cultural and spiritual understanding between East and West, and the exchange of their finest distinctive features.
  • To serve mankind as one’s larger Self.

Source: Wikipedia.org

The poster to promote Swami Yogananda’s lecture at Philharmonic Auditorium

A poster to promote Swami Yogananda’s lecture at the Philharmonic Auditorium.

Yogananda’s work in the United States grew at an unprecedented rate. For the first three years, Yogananda mainly taught on the East Coast. In 1924, Yogananda began a cross-continental teaching tour. In 1925, Yogananda established the international headquarters of the Self-Realization Fellowship in Los Angeles, which served as the administrative and spiritual heart of his work.

Yogananda became a very renowned and famous teacher in the United States. He spoke in the largest auditoriums available such as Carnegie Hall in New York and the Philharmonic Auditorium in Los Angeles. Wherever he went, venues overflowed with eager attendees. The Los Angeles Times published an article after his talk at the Los Angeles Philharmonic Auditorium:

“The Philharmonic Auditorium presents the extraordinary spectacle of thousands… being turned away an hour before the advertised opening of a lecture with the 3000-seat hall filled to its utmost capacity. Swami Yogananda is the attraction. A Hindu invading the United States to bring God in the midst of a Christian community, preaching the essence of Christian doctrine.”

Source: yogananda.com.au

The attendees at Yogananda's lecture at Philharmonic Auditorium, Los Angeles

The attendees at Yogananda’s lecture at the Philharmonic Auditorium, Los Angeles

Yogananda and the attendees of his lecture in New York

Yogananda and the attendees of his lecture in New York.

Yogananda’s teachings were appealing because, instead of discriminating, he emphasised the unity of the world’s main religions and introduced universal methods for the audience to attain the direct experience of God. He believed that the teaching of Yoga could be found in the scriptures of all religions. For example, the Ten Commandments were seen as the beginning of Pantajali’s Yoga. He was familiar with the Christian scriptures and could effortlessly quote the New and Old Testaments as well as Indian religious texts.

Rituals did not get much emphasis in Yogananda’s teachings. He was even known to speak in the vernacular, to use language that was easily understood by the laypeople, and to never impose his ideas on others. He also advised on the art of achieving balanced well-being and health for the mind, body, and soul.

Yogananda and his disciples

Yogananda and his disciples

Celebrities and notable personalities flocked to him. Some of his followers include the operatic soprano Amelita Galli-Curci, Mark Twain’s daughter Clara Clemens Gabrilowitsch, the tenor Vladimir Rosing, horticulturist Luther Burbank, the inventor of the Kodak camera George Eastman, symphony conductor Leopold Stokowski, and the poet Edwin Markham.

In 1927, newspaper reports on Yogananda attracted the attention of the then President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge, who invited him to the White House for a meeting. In 1929, Yogananda expanded his reach to South America. During a two-month trip to Mexico, he was welcomed by none other than the then President of Mexico, Dr Emilio Portes Gil, who was an admirer of Yogananda’s teachings.

Yogananda and the President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge

Yogananda and the President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge

Yogananda and the President of Mexico, Dr Emilio Portes Gil

Yogananda and the President of Mexico, Dr Emilio Portes Gil

Although based in the United States, Yogananda continued to travel widely to spread the spirit of spirituality in the American continent and Europe. Wherever he went, he emphasised the underlying unity of the world’s great religions and introduced the ancient techniques of Kriya Yoga. He also encouraged harmony between nationalities, races, and religions.

Yogananda before one of his classes in Washington D.C. There were approximately one thousand attendees attending this lecture.]

Yogananda before one of his classes in Washington D.C. There were approximately one thousand attendees at this lecture.

Yogananda’s work in the United States thrived because of devoted students who dedicated their lives to nurturing the Self-Realization Fellowship, such as:

  • Dr M. W. Lewis and his wife. They met Yogananda in Boston in 1920 and helped him establish the first Self-Realization Fellowship.
  • Rajarsi Janakananda (James J Lynn), who met Yogananda in Kansas City in 1932. He was appointed Yogananda’s successor after his passing.
  • Sri Daya Mata, who began attending Yogananda’s teachings in Salt Lake City in the early 1930s and took on the responsibility of recording Yogananda’s informal talks, classes, and lectures so that they would be available for many generations to come.
  • Gyanamata, who met Yogananda in Seattle in 1924.
  • Tara Mata, who met Yogananda in San Francisco in 1924.
  • Durga Mata, who met Yogananda in Detroit in 1929.
  • Ananda Mata, who met Yogananda in Salt Lake City in 1931.
  • Sraddha Mata, who met Yogananda in Tacoma in 1933.
  • Sailasuta Mata, who met Yogananda in Santa Barbara in 1933.
Yogananda and one of his devoted disciples, Sri Daya Mata

Yogananda and one of his devoted disciples, Sri Daya Mata.

Due to the efforts of his students, the Self-Realization Fellowship grew at an astonishing rate. Its beautiful headquarters, built on 12 acres of land in the Mount Washington area of Los Angeles, include buildings for resident monks and a printing facility. His students also established Self-Realization Fellowship temples in various cities in California: Hollywood (1942), San Diego (1943), and Long Beach (1947).

Self-Realization Fellowship’s beautiful headquarters, built on 12 acres of land in the Mount Washington area of Los Angeles

The Self-Realization Fellowship’s beautiful headquarters, built on 12 acres of land in the Mount Washington area of Los Angeles.

Self-Realization Fellowship Temple in Hollywood, California

The Self-Realization Fellowship Temple in Hollywood, California.

 

VIDEO: The Purpose of Life

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Visit to India

In 1935, Yogananda went on an 18-month visit to India, mainly to pay homage to his master Yukteswar Giri and to expand the Yogoda Satsanga Society (previously known as Yogoda Satsanga Vidyalaya). For this journey, he travelled by automobile and ship, which took him through Europe, Palestine, and Egypt, before finally arriving in Mumbai in the summer of the same year.

Yukteswar Giri was pleased with Yogananda’s achievements and bestowed him with the religious title of “Paramahansa” which means “the supreme swan”. This title indicates the highest spiritual attainment because the sacred swan is believed to have the extraordinary power of extracting pure milk from a mixture of water and milk.

Yogananda in Egypt with his travel companions, Mr. Wright and Miss Bletch

Yogananda in Egypt with his travel companions, Mr Wright and Miss Bletch

Yogananda and his teacher, Yukteswar Giri

Yogananda and his teacher, Yukteswar Giri

During this visit, Yogananda met with various wise men and saints of India. They include:

  • Mahatma Gandhi – India’s social and independence activist;
  • Ramana Maharisi – a Hindu sage;
  • Sri Anandamayi Ma – a Bengali saint and spiritual leader;
  • Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman – a renowned physicist;
  • Sir C. V. Raman – a physicist and a Nobel Laureate; and
  • Several students of Lahiri Mahasaya.
Yogananda and Mahatma Gandhi enjoying a quiet lunch session in August 1935

Yogananda and Mahatma Gandhi enjoying a quiet lunch in August 1935

Yogananda and Sri Anandamayi Ma, a Bengali saint and a spiritual leader

Yogananda and Sri Anandamayi Ma, a Bengali saint and spiritual leader

During this trip, Yogananda also consolidated his work in his native land with the Yogoda Satsanga Society as its primary vehicle. He gave various classes, teaching sessions, and Kriya Yoga initiations in a few Indian cities. One of his famous initiates was Mahatma Gandhi.

After witnessing the success of his devout disciple, while Yogananda was visiting Calcutta, Yukteswar Giri attained mahasamadhi in Puri. Mahasamadhi means the greatest of meditations, one that is carried out at the time of death and leads the person to complete communion with God, free of the mortal shackles of the physical body.

Today, Yogananda’s legacy survives in India through the Yogoda Satsanga Society. The original boys-only school has expanded to include a kindergarten, a girls’ school, a medical dispensary, a music school, an arts and crafts school, a college, meditation centres, ashrams, charitable works, and a college for homoeopathic medicine.

The last Solstice Festival that Yogananda celebrated with his teacher, Yukteswar Giri in December 1935. Yukteswar Giri was seated in the centerand Yogananda was seated at his right. The celebration took place in the large courtyard of his hermitage in Serampore.

The last Solstice Festival that Yogananda celebrated with his teacher, Yukteswar Giri in December 1935. Yukteswar Giri is seated in the centre and Yogananda is seated on his right. The celebration took place in the large courtyard of his hermitage in Serampore.

 

A Student’s Gift for Yogananda

While Yogananda was in India, his devoted student, Rajarsi Janakananda, built a beautiful temple on 23 acres of land in Encinitas, California, for his beloved teacher. The Encinitas Hermitage, with its incredible view of the Pacific Ocean, would become the place where Yogananda spent most of his time when he returned from India.

Today, this beautiful complex remains one of Yogananda’s many legacies and continues to hold various Self-Realization Fellowship retreat programs.

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Aerial view of Self-Realization Fellowship Hermitage in Encinitas, California

Aerial view of the Self-Realization Fellowship Hermitage in Encinitas, California.

 

Preparing for the Future Generation

Yogananda returned to the United States in late 1936. There was a noticeable change after his return as Yogananda started to focus on preparations for the future and the preservation of his teachings. Instead of going on teaching tours and delivering public lectures, Yogananda concentrated on his writing and building a foundation for the spiritual work of both the Yogoda Satsanga Society and the Self-Realization Fellowship. Together with his close disciples, he prepared instructions for classes and materials for home study. At the same time, he also worked on his seminal work “Autobiography of a Yogi” and other books.

Despite his heavy workload, Yogananda continued to give regular teachings to Self-Realization Fellowship members on various spiritual subjects. His devoted student, Sri Daya Mata, faithfully recorded all these teachings using a stenographic method. These talks would later be published as a three-volume book called “Yogananda’s Collected Talks and Essays” and in Self-Realization magazines.

 

VIDEO: Removing All Sorrows from Life (in Yogananda’s Voice)

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VIDEO: Removing Suffering (in Yogananda’s Voice)

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Autobiography of a Yogi

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Yogananda’s landmark work “Autobiography of a Yogi” was published in 1946. It became an immediate bestseller and a spiritual classic. A panel of spiritual authors considered “Autobiography of a Yogi” as one of the “100 Most Important Spiritual Books of the 20th Century.” [Source: Wikipedia.org]

The book described Yogananda’s various experiences and meetings with renowned personalities such as Nobel Laureate in literature Rabindranath Tagore, plant scientist Luther Burbank, Mahatma Gandhi, Therese Neumann, Nobel Laureate in physics C. V. Raman, and Indian scientist Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose.

In the chapter titled “The Law of Miracles”, Yogananda explained the appearances of miraculous occurrences and gave hope to many when he wrote that “the word ‘impossible’ is becoming less prominent in man’s vocabulary.”

The book has been in continuous print since it was first published. It has sold more than four million copies and has been translated into 34 languages. Philip Goldberg, American author of “American Veda”, wrote:

“The Self-Realization Fellowship which represents Yogananda’s Legacy, is justified in using the slogan, “The Book that Changed the Lives of Millions.” It has sold more than four million copies and counting”.

Source: Wikipedia.org

Autobiography of a Yogi” is a timeless book that continues to inspire. Fans of the book include famous modern personalities like Ravi Shankar, George Harrison, and Steve Jobs. It is said that Mr Jobs read “Autobiography of a Yogi” when he was a teenager and made a habit of re-reading it again each year. Before he passed away in 2011, Mr Jobs arranged for copies of the book to be distributed to those who attended his funeral.

 

The Great Master’s Final Years

Yogananda spent the final years of his life on completing his writings

Yogananda spent the final years of his life completing his writings.

Yogananda spent his final years in seclusion together with his close disciples. He concentrated on completing his writings, which included commentaries on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Bhagavad Gita. He believed that, “I can do much more now to reach others with my pen.” [Source: Wikipedia.org]

To his close disciples, like Sri Mrinalini Mata, Sri Daya Mata, and a few others, Yogananda provided guidance on how they should carry on with the work he had started once he was gone. He advised:

“My body shall pass but my work shall go on. And my spirit shall live on. Even when I am taken away I shall work with you all for the deliverance of the world with the message of God.

Those who have come to Self Realization Fellowship truly seeking inward spiritual help shall receive what they seek from God. Whether they come while I am in the body, or afterward, the power of God through the link of the SRF Gurus shall flow into the devotees just the same, and shall be the cause of their salvation… The ever living Babaji has promised to guard and guide the progress of all sincere SRF devotees. Lahiri Mahasaya and Sri Yukteswarji, who have left their physical forms, and I myself, even after I have left the body — all will ever protect and direct the sincere members of SRF YSS.”

Source: yogananda-srf.org

The year 1950 marked two significant occasions for Yogananda and the Self-Realization Fellowship:

  • The Self-Realization Fellowship established a beautiful ten-acre lake shrine in the Pacific Palisades in California. Yogananda enshrined a portion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes in the meditation gardens in the complex.
  • The first ever Self-Realization Fellowship World Convocation was held at its headquarters in Los Angeles. This annual event continues to attract thousands of spiritual seekers every year from around the world.

 

The Passing of a Great Master

Yogananda after he entered Mahasamadhi

Yogananda after he entered Mahasamadhi

On 7th March 1952, Yogananda attended an event at the Biltmore Hotel to honour India’s ambassador to the United States, Binay Ranjan Sen, where he delivered a memorable speech:

“I am proud that I was born in India. I am proud that we have a great ambassador representing my spiritual India. Somewhere between the two great civilisations of efficient America and spiritual India lies the answer for a model world civilisation.”

Source: thebetterindia.com

This picture of Yogananda was taken approximately hour before he died.

This picture of Yogananda was taken approximately an hour before he passed away.

He then proceeded to read several lines from his poem, “My India” and concluded with the words “Where Ganges, woods, Himalayan caves, and men dream God — I am hallowed; my body touched that sod.” [Source: Wikipedia.org] He then slid to the floor with a beautiful smile on his face. The official cause of death was heart failure. In truth, the great master Paramahansa Yogananda had entered mahasamadhi.

A notarised letter from the director of Forest Lawn Memorial Park stated that Yogananda’s body showed no sign of deterioration although 20 days had passed since his death. The extraordinary phenomenon was reported in various magazines and periodicals, including TIME magazine. The Indian ambassador Binay Ranjan Sen who witnessed Yogananda’s final moments paid homage to the great master in his tribute:

“He was born in India, he lived for India, and he died with the name of India on his lips.”

Source: hindustantimes.com

ajarsi Janakananda

Rajarsi Janakananda

Yogananda’s funeral service was held at the Self-Realization Fellowship headquarters in Mount Washington in Los Angeles. Rajarsi Janakananda presided over the ritual of “releasing the body to God.” His remains were interred in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Great Mausoleum in Glendale, California. His tomb remains accessible to visitors who wish to pay homage to him.

 

Indian Commemorative Stamp

In March 1977, the Indian government issued a commemorative stamp in honour of Yogananda:

“The ideal of love for God and service to humanity found full expression in the life of Paramahansa Yogananda. Though the major part of his life was spent outside India, still, he takes his place among our great saints. His work continues to grow and shine ever more brightly, drawing people everywhere on the path of the pilgrimage of the Spirit.”

Source: Wikipedia.org

On 7th March 2017, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi released another commemorative stamp to honour the 100th anniversary of the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India and to appreciate Yogananda’s work in “spreading the message of India’s spirituality in foreign shores.” [Source: Wikipedia.org]

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Tribute by Ram Nath Kovind, President of India

In November 2017, the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, visited the Ranchi Ashram of the Yogoda Satsanga Society for the official release of the Hindi translation of one of Yogananda’s books titled “God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita”. On this occasion, the President paid tribute to Yogananda:

“Paramahansa Yogananda’s message is a message of spirituality. Going beyond the confines of religion, his is a message of respecting all religions; his perspective is of world brotherhood. … Paramahansa Yogananda has also deeply impressed today’s young generation, which is surrounded by materialism and competition. Achieving prosperity and success on an international level amidst fierce struggle, many young people credit their accomplishments to Paramahansaji’s Autobiography of a Yogi. This is a very renowned book, and I think most of you have read it; I too have had that opportunity. This book illumines the right course for all to follow in life.”

Source: Wikipedia.org

The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, visited the Ranchi Ashram of Yogoda Satsanga Society for the official release of the Hindi translation of one of Yogananda’s books titled “God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita” on November 2017

The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, visited the Ranchi Ashram of the Yogoda Satsanga Society for the official release of the Hindi translation of one of Yogananda’s books titled “God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita” in November 2017.

 

Award-Winning Documentary

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Yogananda’s life story was immortalised in the award-winning documentary, “Awake: The Life of Yogananda”. The documentary features beautiful recreations of events from Yogananda’s life and interviews with many of his admirers such as sitar maestro Ravi Shankar, the new age spiritual guru Deepak Chopra, and the lead guitarist of the Beatles, George Harrison.

 

VIDEO: Awake (Trailer)

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Yogananda041

 

Recommended Reading (Free Download)

Autobiography of a Yogi (click to download PDF)

Yogananda for the World (click to download PDF)

Paramhansa Yogananda: History, Life, Mission (click to download PDF)

The texts above were sourced from legitimate book-hosting services offering these texts for free download. They are made available here for purely educational, non-commercial purposes.

 

Sources:

  • ‘Paramahansa Yogananda’, Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia, 15 June 2018, [website], https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramahansa_Yogananda (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Paramahansa Yogananda’,Self-Realization Fellowship, [website], http://www.yogananda-srf.org/Paramahansa_Yogananda.aspx#.WztogtgzY3F (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Our Spiritual Lineage’, Ananda Sangha Worldwide, [website], https://www.ananda.org/about-ananda-sangha/lineage/ (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Kriya Yoga’, Paramahansa Yogananda, [website], http://yogananda.com.au/kriya.html (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Paramhansa Yogananda and the Path of Kriya Yoga’, Paramhansa Yogananda, [website], http://www.paramhansayogananda.com/ (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • Pal, Sanchari, ‘The Story of Paramahansa Yogananda, the Man Who Took Yoga Beyond Indian Shores’, The Better India, 21 June 2016, [website], https://www.thebetterindia.com/59103/paramahansa-yogananda-international-yoga-day/ (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • Pettinger, Tejvan, ‘Biography of Paramahansa Yogananda’, biographyonline.net, 27 February 2018, [website], https://www.biographyonline.net/spiritual/paramahansa_yogananda.html (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Paramahansa Yogananda Biography’, TheFamousPeople.com, 1 November 2017, [website], https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/paramahansa-yogananda-4037.php (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Paramahamsa Yogananda’, Om-Guru: Saints, Teachers, and Seekers in the Indian Tradition, [website], http://www.om-guru.com/html/saints/yogananda.html (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Yogananda, Paramahamsa’, Encyclopedia.com, [website], https://www.encyclopedia.com/people/philosophy-and-religion/other-religious-beliefs-biographies/paramahansa-yogananda#1O101YognandaParamahamsa (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Biography of Paramahansa Yogananda’, PoemHunter.com, [website], https://www.poemhunter.com/paramahansa-yogananda/biography/ (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Yogananda Facts’, Your Dictionary, [website], http://biography.yourdictionary.com/yogananda (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Paramahansa Yogananda Biography’, Awaken, 29 August 2015, [website], http://www.awaken.com/2015/08/paramahansa-yoganandas-biography/ (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • Blumberg, Antonia, ‘The Life Of Yogananda: Guru, Author Of ‘Autobiography Of A Yogi’’ huffingtonpost.com, 9 January 2015, [website], https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/the-life-of-yogananda-guru-author-of-autobiography-of-a-yogi_us_55dba1dde4b04ae4970435c8 (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • Swamy, MR Narayan, ‘Yogananda: Man who taught yoga to Mahatma died with ‘India on his lips’’ Hindustan Times, 20 June 2016, https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/yogananda-man-who-taught-yoga-to-mahatma-died-with-india-on-his-lips/story-IhptLEPUBrnoVMwcW4ZrfK.html (accessed 29 June 2018).
  • ‘Yogananda’s Mortuary Report’, Paramahansa Yogananda’s Complete Mortuary Report, [website], http://oaks.nvg.org/soy22.html (accessed 29 June 2018).

 

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10 Responses to Paramahansa Yogananda: The Father of Yoga in the West

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  1. sarassitham on Apr 16, 2020 at 11:57 pm

    Thank you for the wonderful sharing of Paramahansa Yogananda, the father of Yoga in the West. Very inspiring live journey of a great master who devoted his life to introduce millions to the teachings of meditation and Kriya Yoga through his organization Self-Realization Fellowship and Yogoda Satsanga Society.

    There are many in this modern world are fascinated to have a good yoga master to improve their lifestyle. I enjoyed discovering this inspiring article, memorable photos and interesting videos.

  2. S.Prathap on Apr 8, 2020 at 9:35 pm

    He is well known as the father of yoga in the West, who has devoted his life to the spread of knowledge about the techniques of yoga meditation. His Yoga teachings are widely practiced around the world by many from various faiths, backgrounds, races, and nationalities.
    The sacred sounds invite positive beings to inhabit our environment, expels negative beings and brings the sound of growth to the land, animals, water and plants. Thank you for the good article.

  3. Tsa Tsa Ong on Sep 29, 2018 at 11:41 pm

    I truly enjoyed reading Inspiring story of the remarkable life and work of Paramahansa Yogananda,the man who took yoga and meditation to the West. Especially about his younger days. Love the beautiful photos and interesting videos too. Thank you very much Rinpoche and blog team for sharing another inspiring life story. ???

  4. Wai Meng Wan on Sep 25, 2018 at 5:36 am

    I have always wondered who this long haired yogi is, as he is one of the most influential spiritualist of the 20th century.
    Reading about his works, not even going to his teachings, one feels reading this article leaves an indelible mark on one’s psyche and feel inspired to bring the truth and spirituality to share with others as well.

  5. Yee Yin on Sep 8, 2018 at 4:36 pm

    As our material possession gets more, we feel more empty inside. This is when people start to look for a spiritual teacher to guide them in finding the true purpose of life. Paramahansa Yogananda was a spiritual teacher, a saint and a yogi who introduced the ancient teachings of Kriya Yoga to the world.

    Paramahansa Yogananda was very spiritual since he was young, he didn’t like the academic education and was more interested in spirituality. After many years of learning from great spiritual masters, he went to the USA and became a spiritual guide to many Americans including the rich and famous. His teachings were appealing because, instead of discriminating, he emphasised the unity of the world’s main religions and introduced universal methods for the audience to attain the direct experience of God. He also encouraged harmony between nationalities, races, and religions

    People liked his teachings because they were very easy to understand and he didn’t impose his idea on people. His teachings were very suitable for the modern people as we are living in a very diversified society and respect and tolerant of other religions, races, and nationalities are very important.

  6. Meg on Sep 3, 2018 at 4:37 pm

    Beautiful!

    Out of all his works, God Talks to Arjuna [interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita] is a ‘must study’. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield and the obstacles faced by the latter are described in parallels to the karmic constraints/conditions to the body, soul and mind. The applications are universal, as the roots are universal.

    Thank you for sharing about this great, great teacher.

  7. Samfoonheei on Jul 28, 2018 at 10:50 am

    Inspiring story of the remarkable life and work of Paramahansa Yogananda,the man who took yoga and meditation to the West. He is well known as the father of yoga in the West, who has devoted his life to the spread of knowledge about the techniques of yoga meditation. He has made yoga accessible to a modern audience, attracting many followers and inspiring millions who practise this ancient tradition meditation even till today. His Yoga teachings are widely practised around the world by many from various faiths, backgrounds, races, and nationalitiesI have not watch those videos yet at the time of commenting but will definitely do.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this inspiring sharing and the recommended reading (Free Download).

  8. Pastor Adeline on Jul 28, 2018 at 2:16 am

    Nice short video of a new LED signage reminding us of who we can go to for blessings in case of need: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBwrkaKUoH0

  9. Jacinta on Jul 27, 2018 at 3:06 pm

    Dear Rinpoche,

    Instead of teachings, I was more struck by His penetrating eyes, just by seeing His pictures. I felt some kind of calm and friendliness. I’ve read His book before but maybe I need to re-read again some other time, and the videos too.

    I remember one experience that I had before where He explained about yoga techniques on Dream and sleep. I was amazed that it worked for the first time. Later on, maybe I was expecting too much and hence lost the “effectiveness” of it ?. I did experience the dreams that happened at the moment and after I woke up or even later on. It’s very much similar to lucid dreaming. However, before long I’ve lost this so called “ability” ?. How I wish I’m a yogini ?. But His teachings are real and and He shares it openly with us. An inspiration for me to pursue spirituality life and hopefully for others too.

    Thanks for having this in the blog so that I can revisit some other time. Thank you Rinpoche.

  10. Joy Kam on Jul 26, 2018 at 6:19 am

    Listening to the chanting of sacred words, melodies, mantras, sutras and prayers has a very powerful healing effect on our outer and inner environments. It clears the chakras, spiritual toxins, the paths where our ‘chi’ travels within our bodies for health as well as for clearing the mind. It is soothing and relaxing but at the same time invigorates us with positive energy. The sacred sounds invite positive beings to inhabit our environment, expels negative beings and brings the sound of growth to the land, animals, water and plants. Sacred chants bless all living beings on our land as well as inanimate objects. Do download and play while in traffic to relax, when you are about to sleep, during meditation, during stress or just anytime. Great to play for animals and children. Share with friends the blessing of a full Dorje Shugden puja performed at Kechara Forest Retreat by our puja department for the benefit of others. Tsem Rinpoche

    Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbzgskLKxT8&t=5821s

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  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:31 PM
    Venerable Ajahn Chah was a Thai Buddhist teacher of the Buddhadhamma and a founder of two major monasteries in the Thai Forest Tradition. Well respected and loved as a man of great wisdom, he was also instrumental in establishing Theravada Buddhism in the West. Interesting life story, how he chose to leave the settled monastic life and became a wandering ascetic. Walking across Thailand, lived in forests, caves and cremation grounds while learning from the meditation monks of the Forest of various monasteries. He wandered through the countryside in quest of quiet and secluded places for developing meditation. He even lived in tiger and cobra infested jungles, using reflections on death to penetrate to the true meaning of life. After years of wandering, Venerable Ajahn Chah established a monastery where he taught simple, practice-based form of meditation, and attracted a numerous of students including western foreigners. He was one of the greatest Dhamma teachers of the modern era. His wise teachings have continued to guide thousands of people along the path of Dharma. Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings of the Thai Forest Tradition gradually spread across all over the world. Several of Ajahn Chah’s Western students have since established monasteries throughout the world. Just in Thailand itself, there are more than 300 branch monasteries in Ajahn Chah’s tradition. Ven erable Ajahn Chah used his ill health as a teaching point, emphasizing that it was a living example of the impermanence of all things and reminded people to endeavour to find a true refuge within themselves. The legacy of Venerable Ajahn Chah’s teachings and legacy continues into the modern age.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/great-lamas-masters/venerable-ajahn-chah-the-forest-monk.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:30 PM
    Wonderful blog written on the practice of Kalarupa for us to understand better. As an emanation of Manjushri, Kalarupa’s practice helps us to destroy ignorance and to develop wisdom overcoming our anger and suffering . Awesome Kalarupa manifested in multiple forms to help sentient beings who personifies enlightenment by the conquest of anger. Kalarupa also regard as one of the three main Dharma protectors of the Gelugpa is extremely fierce and ugly, and tames all kinds of spiritual ugliness. The fierceness of his iconography teaches us to remind ourselves that all the causes and effects of anger arising from ignorance are dreadful and distorted.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Pastor Antionette for this detailed sharing,

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/kalarupa.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:27 PM
    Nepal is a very spiritual country, having a huge Dorje Shugden mural in Kathmandu, is indeed a big achievement for Kechara. Located on Charkhal Road in Dilli Bazaar, the mural can be found midway between our two Dorje Shugden chapels which are in Putalisadak and Chabahil. It is also very close to one of Kathmandu’s largest shopping malls. Many locals , tourist will be able to connect them to a powerful deity that is so closely associated with their culture. Well the mural not only beautiful but also full of symbolism and everyone merely by seeing it is blessed. Thanks to those talented artists and generous sponsors making it a success.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/travel/spectacular-dorje-shugden-mural-in-kathmandu-nepal.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Friday, Mar 15. 2024 07:24 PM
    All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. Letting go helps us to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. A reminder for us all to go of attachment and meditating on impermanence and emptiness. We are to relinquish the domination of our ego and its habits to transform ourselves. A great reminder not to waste our previous life.
    Quoted Ceasing to do evil, Cultivating the good, Purifying the heart .
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing such a meaningful teachings with folded hands.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/pointing-the-staff-at-the-old-man.html
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:43 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail. com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • james belich
    Friday, Mar 8. 2024 09:42 PM
    Winning the lottery was part of my dreams, I tried so hard to win big but all to no avail, until I came across Dr Lucas online who made my dreams come through and made me win 10 million dollars. I was a logistics manager who lives in Lancaster, S.C. and works about an hour’s drive away, in Charlotte, N.C., I stopped at a store to buy a scratch-off lottery ticket during my lunch break, because Dr Lucas gave me all the assurance that the numbers are not going to fail after I did all he asked me to do. Dr lucas is a powerful Dr that is on a mission to eradicate poverty from people’s lives and i have confirmed that by winning $10 million with the numbers he provided for me, it is my promise to tell the world about my experience with Dr Lucas and that’s what I’m doing now, you can win the lottery fast with the help of Dr Lucas he is tested and trusted Email: Drlucasspelltemple@gmail.com or WhatsApp +234 904 794 3567 he will help you.
  • lee
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 07:06 PM
    We are members of the Buddhist Temple in Taman Desa Jaya, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur and we have been issued membership by the president (DATUK YIP KUM FOOK), we are very sad because we are the foundation of this Temple

    Now we can know who is always messing with people, and he always cheats money and women, he even uses Buddhism to find money.

    Also, need to be careful with his brother-in-law (Simon Low Kok Meng) because he is a spy (CID) for DATUK YIP KUM FOOK and we will write some letters to AGONG SULTAN IBRAHIM IBN ALMARHUM SULTAN ISKANDAR as soon as possible.

    From Jesmond Yap, Kepong Baru…Kuala Lumpur
  • Phoenix the Shaman Elder
    Thursday, Mar 7. 2024 01:40 AM
    The matriarchal cultures of the grandmothers have specific symbolism of animism shamanism, such as the horse, especially the blue horse, and the deer. These are two main symbols of a shaman woman and you can find them in many cultural folk lore, especially the Russian, Slavic, Siberian, Nordic, Finland, and Norway. It’s nice to see the Matriarchal Shaman Animism diety represented in Chinese.
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:59 PM
    An inspiring act of a selfless Lama feeding strays whether its night or day. Truly an example for us all to feed those lonely strays . Yes I do agree compassion starts with feeding strays. Reading this blog again to refresh myself to do more. Strays animals generally lead a life of poor welfare on the street. Feeding strays is a compassionate act.
    Thank you Rinpoche and Anila for this sharing.


    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/one-minute-story/rinpoche-through-my-eyes-compassion-starts-with-feeding-strays
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:56 PM
    nteresting revisit this blog again as truly inspiring reading over and over again . There’s so many inspiring nuns and female practitioner coming from different back ground, leading a more spiritual life. They are practitioners dedicated their life to religious observance and their path is illuminated by the light of compassion. Going against all odds to become one. Their devotion radiates like a thousand stars in the night sky. Here at Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Pahang we too have inspiring practitioners .
    Thank you Rinpoche for this great sharing.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/inspiring-nuns-and-female-practitioners.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    H E Tsem Rinpoche’s Sungbum project aim to preserve the teachings and practices that have been passed from teacher to disciple in an unbroken line beginning with Lama Tsongkhapa himself . History has taught us the importance of preserving Buddha’s stainless teachings. Its important to preserve and safeguard the Buddhist tradition for future generations.
    Tsem Rinpoche is a clear and effective teacher where his stories and teachings are endlessly entertaining and inspiring. The preservation is very much needed. We are so fortunate given a chance to be involved in such a meritorious project .
    Thank you.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/current-affairs/the-tsem-rinpoche-sungbum-project.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:55 PM
    Demons are disembodied spirits, supernatural being or spirit and unseen beings. We know they do exist and I believe they do. They have no physical form to them whatsoever. Demons do definitely exist. They are intelligent beings who are evil malicious spirits and are all dangerous entities. Valak is not to be summoned capriciously by anyone as they are dangerous beings when we invoke them having to face a heavy consequence. There are spiritual practices that we can ask for help a ritual of the wrathful Manjushri in the form of Trakze. Having a doing the practice daily without fail, consistently, as this Trakze practice has been proven to be efficacious to break the hold the Valak and other spirits. All thanks to our Guru bringing this practice to Kechara Forest Retreat, Bentong Malaysia.
    Thank you Rinpoche for this wonderful sharing for us to understand better.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/science-mysteries/valak-the-conjuring-2-demon.html
  • Samfoonheei
    Monday, Mar 4. 2024 06:53 PM
    Wow ,reading all these powerful quotes had me realised much better of giving even I have little. May H E Tsem Rinpoche’s sincere advice to reach the far shore of liberation to everyone reading this blog. The most truly generous people are those who give silently without asking any in return. There is no exercise better than reaching and lifting people up. A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal. Well creating and lighting for others we naturally light our own way. Helping others especially those unfortunate ones, make us feel more positive about our own circumstances.
    Thank you Rinpoche for sharing all these powerful quotes.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/inspiration-worthy-words/the-power-of-giving-18-quotes-from-tsem-rinpoche.html
  • Aarati Bhatt
    Wednesday, Feb 28. 2024 12:47 AM
    I have tried mine and my friend’s horoscope and it results same in both of our case, and not just that I have tried this on various friends and this horoscope is showing same for maximum date of birth, I think this is a bug.
  • Samfoonheei
    Thursday, Jan 4. 2024 04:11 PM
    Lama Tsongkhapa was an influential Tibetan Buddhist monk, philosopher and tantric yogi, whose activities led to the formation of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism . Lama Tsongkhapa was hailed as the second Buddha by contemporary Buddhist masters of his time. Famous for reviving Buddhism in Tibet and revered for elevating the Dharma to all its present glory. Hence having a 12 ft Lama Tsongkhapa Statue at new Kechara Gompa (Prayer Hall) is indeed a blessing. Its truly beautiful. Merely by looking at it is a blessing .
    Thank you Rinpoche and team effort making it possible.

    https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/kechara-13-depts/10-ft-tsongkapa-here.html

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The Known and unknown are both feared,
Known is being comfortable and stagnant,
The unknown may be growth and opportunities,
One shall never know if one fears the unknown more than the known.
Who says the unknown would be worse than the known?
But then again, the unknown is sometimes worse than the known. In the end nothing is known unless we endeavour,
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According to legend, Shambhala is a place where wisdom and love reign, and there is no crime. Doesn't this sound like the kind of place all of us would love to live in? https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/?p=204874
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4 years ago
On behalf of our Puja House team, Pastor Tat Ming receives food and drinks from Rinpoche. Rinpoche wanted to make sure the hardworking Puja House team are always taken care of.
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
4 years ago
By the time I heard about Luang Phor Thong, he was already very old, in his late 80s. When I heard about him, I immediately wanted to go and pay my respects to him. - http://bit.ly/LuangPhorThong
It\'s very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it\'s very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
4 years ago
It's very nice to see volunteers helping maintain holy sites in Kechara Forest Retreat, it's very good for them. Cleaning Buddha statues is a very powerful and effective way of purifying body karma.
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
4 years ago
Kechara Forest Retreat is preparing for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations. This is our holy Vajra Yogini stupa which is now surrounded by beautiful lanterns organised by our students.
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
4 years ago
One of the most recent harvests from our Kechara Forest Retreat land. It was grown free of chemicals and pesticides, wonderful!
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Third picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
Second picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal.
Height: 33ft (10m)
5 years ago
First picture-Standing Manjushri Statue at Chowar, Kirtipur, Nepal. Height: 33ft (10m)
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
5 years ago
The first title published by Kechara Comics is Karuna Finds A Way. It tells the tale of high-school sweethearts Karuna and Adam who had what some would call the dream life. Everything was going great for them until one day when reality came knocking on their door. Caught in a surprise swindle, this loving family who never harmed anyone found themselves out of luck and down on their fortune. Determined to save her family, Karuna goes all out to find a solution. See what she does- https://bit.ly/2LSKuWo
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
5 years ago
Very powerful story! Tibetan Resistance group Chushi Gangdruk reveals how Dalai Lama escaped in 1959- https://bit.ly/2S9VMGX
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
5 years ago
At Kechara Forest Retreat land we have nice fresh spinach growing free of chemicals and pesticides. Yes!
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
5 years ago
See beautiful pictures of Manjushri Guest House here- https://bit.ly/2WGo0ti
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
5 years ago
Beginner’s Introduction to Dorje Shugden~Very good overview https://bit.ly/2QQNfYv
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat\'s land here in Malaysia
5 years ago
Fresh eggplants grown on Kechara Forest Retreat's land here in Malaysia
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
5 years ago
Most Venerable Uppalavanna – The Chief Female Disciple of Buddha Shakyamuni - She exhibited many supernatural abilities gained from meditation and proved to the world females and males are equal in spirituality- https://bit.ly/31d9Rat
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
5 years ago
Thailand’s ‘Renegade’ Yet Powerful Buddhist Nuns~ https://bit.ly/2Z1C02m
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami – the first Buddhist nun ordained by Lord Buddha- https://bit.ly/2IjD8ru
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
5 years ago
The Largest Buddha Shakyamuni in Russia | 俄罗斯最大的释迦牟尼佛画像- https://bit.ly/2Wpclni
Sacred Vajra Yogini
5 years ago
Sacred Vajra Yogini
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
5 years ago
Dorje Shugden works & archives - a labour of commitment - https://bit.ly/30Tp2p8
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha.
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha\'s mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
5 years ago
Mahapajapati Gotami, who was the first nun ordained by Lord Buddha. She was his step-mother and aunt. Buddha's mother had passed away at his birth so he was raised by Gotami.
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha\'s. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
5 years ago
Another nun disciple of Lord Buddha's. She had achieved great spiritual abilities and high attainments. She would be a proper object of refuge. This image of the eminent bhikkhuni (nun) disciple of the Buddha, Uppalavanna Theri.
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
5 years ago
Wandering Ascetic Painting by Nirdesha Munasinghe
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
5 years ago
High Sri Lankan monks visit Kechara to bless our land, temple, Buddha and Dorje Shugden images. They were very kind-see pictures- https://bit.ly/2HQie2M
This is pretty amazing!

First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
5 years ago
This is pretty amazing! First Sri Lankan Buddhist temple opened in Dubai!!!
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche

Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
5 years ago
My Dharma boy (left) and Oser girl loves to laze around on the veranda in the mornings. They enjoy all the trees, grass and relaxing under the hot sun. Sunbathing is a favorite daily activity. I care about these two doggies of mine very much and I enjoy seeing them happy. They are with me always. Tsem Rinpoche Always be kind to animals and eat vegetarian- https://bit.ly/2Psp8h2
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can\'t stop thinking of you and I can\'t forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
5 years ago
After you left me Mumu, I was alone. I have no family or kin. You were my family. I can't stop thinking of you and I can't forget you. My bond and connection with you is so strong. I wish you were by my side. Tsem Rinpoche
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
5 years ago
This story is a life-changer. Learn about the incredible Forest Man of India | 印度“森林之子”- https://bit.ly/2Eh4vRS
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 2-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
5 years ago
Part 1-Beautiful billboard in Malaysia of a powerful Tibetan hero whose life serves as a great inspiration- https://bit.ly/2UltNE4
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
The great Protector Manjushri Dorje Shugden depicted in the beautiful Mongolian style. To download a high resolution file: https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
5 years ago
The Mystical land of Shambhala is finally ready for everyone to feast their eyes and be blessed. A beautiful post with information, art work, history, spirituality and a beautiful book composed by His Holiness the 6th Panchen Rinpoche. ~ https://bit.ly/309MHBi
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
5 years ago
Beautiful pictures of the huge Buddha in Longkou Nanshan- https://bit.ly/2LsBxVb
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
5 years ago
The reason-Very interesting thought- https://bit.ly/2V7VT5r
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
5 years ago
NEW Bigfoot cafe in Malaysia! Food is delicious!- https://bit.ly/2VxdGau
DON\'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
5 years ago
DON'T MISS THIS!~How brave Bonnie survived by living with a herd of deer~ https://bit.ly/2Lre2eY
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
5 years ago
Global Superpower China Will Cut Meat Consumption by 50%! Very interesting, find out more- https://bit.ly/2V1sJFh
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
5 years ago
You can download this beautiful Egyptian style Dorje Shugden Free- https://bit.ly/2Nt3FHz
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
5 years ago
Beautiful high file for print of Lord Manjushri. May you be blessed- https://bit.ly/2V8mwZe
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
5 years ago
Mongolian (Oymiakon) Shaman in Siberia, Russia. That is his real outfit he wears. Very unique. TR
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
5 years ago
Find one of the most beautiful temples in the world in Nara, Japan. It is the 1,267 year old Todai-ji temple that houses a 15 meter Buddha Vairocana statue who is a cosmic and timeless Buddha. Emperor Shomu who sponsored this beautiful temple eventually abdicated and ordained as a Buddhist monk. Very interesting history and story. One of the places everyone should visit- https://bit.ly/2VgsHhK
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
5 years ago
Manjusri Kumara (bodhisattva of wisdom), India, Pala dynesty, 9th century, stone, Honolulu Academy of Arts
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Videos On The Go

Please click on the images to watch video
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  • Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
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    Our Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir speaks so well, logically and regarding our country’s collaboration with China for growth. It is refreshing to listen to Dr. Mahathir’s thoughts. He said our country can look to China for many more things such as technology and so on. Tsem Rinpoche
  • This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
    5 years ago
    This is the first time His Holiness Dalai Lama mentions he had some very serious illness. Very worrying. This video is captured April 2019.
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    5 years ago
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  • This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    This dog thanks his hero in such a touching way. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
    5 years ago
    Join Tsem Rinpoche in prayer for H.H. Dalai Lama’s long life~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYy7JcveikU&feature=youtu.be
  • These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
    5 years ago
    These people going on pilgrimage to a holy mountain and prostrating out of devotion and for pilgrimage in Tibet. Such determination for spiritual practice. Tsem Rinpoche
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    5 years ago
    Beautiful new casing in Kechara for Vajra Yogini. Tsem Rinpoche
  • Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
    5 years ago
    Get ready to laugh real hard. This is Kechara’s version of “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane!” We have some real talents in this video clip.
  • Recitation of Dorje Dermo‘s mantra or the Dharani of Glorious Vajra Claws. This powerful mantra is meant to destroy all obstacles that come in our way. Beneficial to play this mantra in our environments.
    5 years ago
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    5 years ago
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    5 years ago
    My little monster cute babies Dharma and Oser. Take a look and get a cute attack for the day! Tsem Rinpoche
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    5 years ago
    Plse watch this short video and see how all sentient beings are capable of tenderness and love. We should never hurt animals nor should we eat them. Tsem Rinpoche
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    5 years ago
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A section for you to clarify your Dharma questions with Kechara’s esteemed pastors.

Just post your name and your question below and one of our pastors will provide you with an answer.

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CHAT PICTURES

And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
2 days ago
And here's Mr Wong of KSK Ipoh who dropped by to pray and offered some donation to the Chapel. Kechara Penang Study Group. Pic by Siew Hong & uploaded by Jacinta.
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 days ago
Today's puja (16/3/2024) ended around 420pm, Jacinta was the umze of the day. Pic by Siew Hong. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
7 days ago
Group photo taken after the last session, sealed with King of Prayers. Come and join us next time! Sayonara - 9-10th March 2024 - Kechara Penang DS Retreat by Jacinta.
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
1 week ago
Abundance altar! Fruits, flowers, Mee Koo (traditional Penang buns), Bee Hoon, sourdoughs and snacks are some of the offerings to Rinpoche, Buddhas & Bodhisattvas. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat 9-10th March, 2024 by Jacinta.
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 week ago
Siew Hong, one of retreatants and an active member of Kechara Penang group proudly presented her torma to be used during the Kalarupa puja. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 week ago
Torma making was taught by Pastor Seng Piow and held one day before the retreat. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
1 week ago
Penang Dorje Shugden Retreat cum Puja, 9-10th March 2024 led by Pastor Seng Piow with 12 retreatants. Uploaded by Jacinta
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
1 month ago
The celebration ended with a Dorje Shugden puja, dedicated to all the sponsors, our loved ones and as well as for the happiness & good health for all sentient beings. May Rinpoche return swiftly too and taking this opportunity wishing all Happy Chinese New Year and Gong Xi Fa Cai from all of us, Kechara Penang Study Group. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
1 month ago
Seen here, Pastor Seng Piow set off firecrackers - welcoming of the upcoming year with enthusiasm and positive energy. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
In this pic, Pastor Seng Piow is sharing Dharma with newbies ~ Sharyn's friends. It's always good to make light offerings at the beginning of new year. By making light offerings, you are able to dispel the darkness of ignorance and achieve wisdom. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
1 month ago
One the day of Losar (new lunar year), it is always beneficial for Buddhist practitioners to get together in making abundant offerings to Buddhas on the altar to usher in goodness, prosperity and well-being of our loved ones. It's more auspicious this year as Losar and the Chinese New Year begin on the same date, 10th Feb, 2024. Back in Penang, our Kechara members came together to decorate the altar with abundance offerings for Dorje Shugden puja @3pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Mr. Dared Lim was offering water bowls on behalf of Kechara Ipoh Study Group. (Kin Hoe)
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Jun from Ipoh was offering mandarin oranges to Mother Tara and The Three Jewels. (Kin Hoe)
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
Prior to our puja in Ipoh, Mr. & Mrs. Cheah Fook Wan were preparing for the offerings to the Buddhas. (Kin Hoe)
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
1 month ago
On Sunday afternoon, Kechara Ipoh Study Group has carried out Mother Tara prayer recitations in Ipoh. (Kin Hoe)
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Some of the best shots taken during Thaipusam in Penang. Swee Bee, Huey, Tang KS, Nathan, Choong SH and Jacinta volunteered. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Simple yet powerful ally ~ Bhagawan Dorje Shuden. Kechara Penang Study Group consists of Chien Seong, Hue, Choong SH, Tang KS, Swee Bee and Jacinta. Wai Meng came all the way from KL to help out. Uploaded by Jacinta.
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
2 months ago
Thaipusam in Penang. Some of the best shots. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Nothing beats having a sacred audience with our lineage lamas. It's not selfie or wefie, but we have the best 'groufie'!!! 20th Jan 2024, Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
2 months ago
Welcoming our lineage Gurus to our Penang Chapel today! Pastor Seng Piow explained the significance of having Guru Tree and introduced to us our lineage lamas, Buddhas, deities, protectors and etc.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
2 months ago
Umze for the day was Siew Hong. She's just been with us for slightly more than a year now but she's proven her capability in leading the puja. Our Penang group members are so proud of her and her commitment in attending the weekly puja. Despite being eloquence and smart, she has beautiful chant as well. When she leads, make sure you are there to hear her chant for yourself! Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
3 months ago
Tara Recitation is on now at KISG - Wai Meng
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
3 months ago
Photo from Wan Wai Meng
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/\_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
A sea of yellow ~usually in Tibetan Buddhism yellow represents growth. We prayed that our Penang group will grow in terms of people, wealth and attainments too. _/_ Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed.  Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
After Dorje Shugden puja @3pm, we had Rinpoche's Swift Return puja too. We laughed as Sis Swee Bee was commenting that Tang should smile ~ here's the reason why we laughed. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta Goh
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
Today's (9/12/2023)Dorje Shugden puja led by Gordon. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
3 months ago
3 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
4 months ago
Dharma sharing by Hue before we proceeded with DS puja & Rinpoche Swift Return puja. Hue is one of the long time Kechara Penang members and he comes to puja regularly. He shared that he truly believes that Dorje Shugden and Rinpoche always there guiding him. He shared how sometimes DS will give him hints to avert troubles ahead or to alert him when he 'misbehaved'. Hope many will come to know more about this powerful Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugden aka DS. Having Dorje Shugden is like having a powerful ally that will protect us day and night. Just trust Him and have faith. Kechara Penang Study Group, 25/11/2023 by Jacinta.
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
4 months ago
Kechara Penang Study Group had our weekly DS puja , led by our beloved sis Swee Bee and serkym by Mr. Lee. After that, we completed Swift Return puja also. 18th Nov 2023. By Jacinta
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
4 months ago
#Back2back 11th Nov 2023 Dorje Shugden puja & Rinpoche's Swift Return puja @Penang Chapel, 49 Jalan Seang Tek, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. Every Saturday @3pm/5pm. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Pic: Rinpoche Swift Return puja ~ 21/10/23 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
#Backtoback A few months back, Kechara Penang Study Group started to have two pujas consecutively on Saturday. Dorje Shugden puja @3pm and thereafter Rinpoche Swift Return puja. This can only be achieved due to the committed members from Penang. A big round of applause...... Pic : DS puja on 21/10/2023 Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
5 months ago
More pictures of the day! Kechara Penang Chapel & public blessings 3rd Oct 2023 by Jacinta.
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
5 months ago
Some pictures of the public blessings taken right after the puja was completed by the monks. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta. 3rd Oct 2023.
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
3rd Oct 2023, Tibetan monks came to Kechara Penang for chapel & public blessing, in conjunction with the arrival of H. E Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue. Thanks to Pastor Henry & Pastor Seng Piow, who guided us throughout the event. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
5 months ago
Tsem Rinpoche's holy statue is here! 3rd Oct 2023. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta.
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
5 months ago
29th Sept 2023. Kechara Penang Dorje Shugden puja adjourned at 4.30pm with 9 attendees. Thereafter, a Rinpoche Swift Return puja was completed too. Kechara Penang Study Group by Jacinta
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Dorje Shugden
Click to watch my talk about Dorje Shugden....