The Tradition

Swamiji's tradition is an unbroken chain of Himalayan sages that is more than 5000 years old. The tradition was formally established by Shankaracharya 1200 years ago. The scriptures of his tradition are the Vedas, the oldest spiritual scriptures in the library of humanity. The teachings have been passed on primarily orally, each sage transmitting knowledge directly to prepared students. According to his

tradition, yoga encompasses all the philosophies and practices that have ever been followed by the great sages, not only of the Himalayas, but also of Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Zen, and Sufism as well.Born in Uttar Pradesh to a learned Brahmin family, Swamiji was raised from early childhood by his master, a great yogi and saint of Bengal, who lived in the foothills of the Himalayas and was known as Bengali Baba, or simply Babaji. Babaji was a yogi of immortal wisdom and one of the greatest masters of the Himalayas. The purpose of Babaji?s life was to enlighten those who were prepared, and to love, protect, and guide those who were still preparing. If someone remembers him when they are in trouble, he always helps. Hariakhan Baba and Swamiji's master were disciples of the same advanced yogi who lived in Tibet. Even today in Nepal, Nainital, and Almora people tell stories about these two sages and their incredible healing powers and spiritual miracles.