Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, President of Ramakrishna Mission, Passes Away At 95; Prime Minister Modi Expresses Condolences

Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, the president of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, passed away in Kolkata on Monday evening at the age of 95 due to age-related ailments, as announced by the mission. Swami Smaranananda Maharaj had assumed the role of the 16th president of the order in 2017. His cremation will take place at Belur Math on Tuesday.

He had been receiving treatment at a hospital in south Kolkata operated by the Mission. During his second visit to Bengal this year on March 5, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the hospital to inquire about his health.

Following his demise, Prime Minister Modi extended his condolences in a message.

“Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission dedicated his life to spirituality and service. He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations. I had a very close relation with him over the years. I recall my visit to Belur Math in 2020 when I had interacted with him. A few weeks ago, in Kolkata, I had also visited the hospital and enquired about his health. My thoughts are with the countless devotees of the Belur Math. Om Shanti,” Modi wrote.

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Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda also expressed his heartfelt condolences, saying that he was extremely saddened by the passing away of Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee also offered her condolence.

She wrote, “Deeply saddened at the news of the demise tonight of Srimat Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj, the revered president of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. This great monk during his lifetime has given spiritual leadership to the world order of the Ramakrishnaites and remains the source of solace for millions of devotees across the globe. I convey my deepest condolence to all his fellow monks, followers and devotees.”