Bhaktamal | Chinmayananda Saraswati
Real Name - Balakrishna Menon
Other Names - Swami Chinmayananda Saraswati, Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda Saraswati
Guru -
Swami Sivananda Saraswati, Tapovan Maharaj
Born - 8 May 1916,
Place of Birth - Ernakulam, Kerala
Died - 3 August 1993, Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, California, United States
Education - University of Lucknow, University of Madras, Maharaja's College
Marital Status - Unmarried
Father - Vadakke Kuruppathu Kutta Menon
Mother - Parukutty Amma
Language - Malayalam, English, Tamil, Hindi
Famous - Spiritual Saint
Founder of: Chinmaya Mission; Vishva Hindu Parishad
Swami Chinmayananda Saraswati was a prominent Hindu spiritual leader and the founder of the Chinmaya Mission, an organization that has spread Vedantic teachings worldwide. He was known for his ability to make complex spiritual concepts accessible and relevant to people from all walks of life.
He initially pursued a career in literature and journalism before experiencing a profound spiritual awakening. After meeting his guru, Swami Sivananda Saraswati, he took on the monastic life and became Swami Chinmayananda.
Swami Chinmayananda's teachings were centered around Vedanta, the philosophical tradition that explains the nature of reality, the self, and the universe. He focused on making these teachings practical for modern life, emphasizing personal growth, self-realization, and service to others.
He also wrote and spoke extensively on the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and other classical texts, translating their teachings into accessible language. The Chinmaya Mission he founded continues to operate centers worldwide, providing education, spiritual guidance, and community service.