Baba Shivanand, a revered spiritual leader and Padma Shri awardee, passed away at the age of 128 in Varanasi.
His death, attributed to health complications, marks the end of an era for yoga practitioners and devotees who considered him an inspiration for a disciplined spiritual life.
Baba Shivanand dedicated his life to the practice of yoga, meditation, and spiritual discipline.
Born on August 8, 1896, in the Sylhet district of present-day Bangladesh, Baba Shivanand lost his parents to starvation at the age of six, marking a tragic start to his life.
He was later taken in by Omkarnand, a spiritual mentor who introduced him to the practice of yoga.
Over the decades, Baba Shivanand built a reputation for his disciplined lifestyle, unwavering devotion, and commitment to spreading the teachings of yoga.
His work earned him national recognition, culminating in the Padma Shri award in 2022 for his contributions to Indian society through yoga.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound grief at the passing of Baba Shivanand.
Through a heartfelt post on social media platform X, he wrote, “It is extremely saddening to hear about the demise of Shivanand Baba Ji, a yoga practitioner and resident of Kashi. His life dedicated to yoga and sadhana will continue to inspire every generation of the country.”
PM Modi further added, “He was also awarded Padma Shri for serving the society through yoga. Shivanand Baba’s departure to Shivaloka is an irreparable loss for all of us Kashi residents and millions of people who draw inspiration from him. I pay my tribute to him in this hour of grief.”
Baba Shivanand’s spiritual influence was not limited to his teachings but also extended to the community he created.
His simple yet powerful lifestyle, focused on health, meditation, and holistic wellness, resonated with people across the globe.
His Disciples remember him as both a yoga master and a compassionate figure, embodying kindness and discipline.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid his respects to Baba Shivanand.
In a post on X, CM Adityanath expressed, “The demise of Kashi’s renowned yoga guru ‘Padma Shri’ Swami Shivanand Ji, who made an unparalleled contribution in the field of ‘Yoga’, is extremely sad. Humble tribute to him! Your spiritual practice and life of yoga is a great inspiration for the entire society.
CM Yogi further wrote, “You dedicated your entire life to the expansion of yoga. I pray to Baba Vishwanath to grant salvation to the departed soul and give strength to his bereaved followers to bear this immense sorrow. Om Shanti!”
Baba Shivanand’s body rests at his residence in Kabirnagar Colony, Varanasi, where disciples and well-wishers are paying their final respects.
Varanasi will bid farewell to a revered spiritual figure as his last rites are held this evening.
Baba Shivanand’s disciples and the countless individuals touched by his teachings will carry on his legacy.
His life exemplifies yoga’s power, and his contributions to Indian culture will inspire future generations.
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