Sri Ramana Maharshi
Sri Ramana Maharshi (1879–1950) was one of the most revered sages of modern India, known for his profound teachings on Self-enquiry (Atma Vichara).
Born as Venkataraman Iyer in Tiruchuli, Tamil Nadu, he experienced a spontaneous awakening at the age of 16, leading him to Arunachala, the sacred mountain he never left.
Renouncing worldly life, he lived in deep silence and meditation, radiating peace and wisdom. His teaching was direct and simple—asking, ‘Who am I?’—guiding aspirants to turn inward and discover the true, ever-present Self beyond the mind.
Though Sri Ramana spoke little in his early years at Arunachala, his silent presence itself was transformative, drawing seekers into deep inner stillness. As more devotees gathered, he gradually began responding to their inquiries, always pointing them toward the direct experience of the Self.
Unlike traditional gurus, he did not prescribe elaborate rituals, nor did he identify with any sect or religious orthodoxy. His emphasis was on the simple yet profound method of Self-enquiry (Atma Vichara), urging seekers to question the source of their own existence by repeatedly enquiring, ‘Who am I?’ Through this method, he taught that liberation (moksha) is not something to be attained in the future but is ever-present, waiting to be realized here and now.
He insisted that rather than relying only on scriptural learning, the seeker should practice regular Self-enquiry as a personal journey towards Self-realization.
Although he was worshipped by thousands as a living God, he refused to allow anyone to treat him as a special person and he always refused to accept anything which could not be shared equally by everyone in his ashram.
As Sri Ramana’s fame spread, the Sri Ramanasramam was established at the foot of Arunachala to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Yet, despite the attention, he remained unchanged—living a life of simplicity, compassion, and humility, unaffected by fame or material offerings.
He treated all beings, human and animal alike, with the same love and respect, embodying the very essence of his teachings. His presence and words brought solace to countless people, dissolving their doubts and leading them inward to the truth of pure awareness.
Even after his physical passing in 1950, Sri Ramana’s influence continues to grow, with seekers from all over the world turning to his teachings for guidance.
Sri Ramana Maharshi’s core message—that the Self is already free and that turning inward is the key to realizing it—remains as relevant today as ever, offering a direct path to inner peace and liberation.
When one persistently inquires into the nature of the mind, the mind will end leaving the Self (as the residue).
~ Sri Ramana Maharshi ~
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