Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri


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Known as Priyanath Karar or 'Karar Swami' in his pre-monastic days, he was the chief monastic disciple of the pioneer, Shyamacharan Lahiri. For his extraordinary wisdom and erudition, he was also known as 'Jnanavatar' or 'the incarnation of wisdom'. On the directions of Mahavatar Babaji, he wrote 'Kaivalya Darshan' or 'The Holy Science – a treatise' showing parallels between the ancient Hindu and Christian scriptures. An Astrologer and Astronomer par excellence, he discovered the correct method of calculating the World Ages and the cyclical order of evolution. As a fully realized Kriya Yogi, he established the Karar Ashram at Puri for dissemination of the ancient teachings of which he was the founder, President and Sadhusabhapati. Was instrumental in spreading the message of Kriya across the Globe through his disciple, Paramhansa Yogananda.

Paramhansa Yogananda


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Known as Mukunda Lal Ghosh prior to embracing monkhood, he was driven by the spiritual quest right from his childhood. After coming into contact with his mentor and spiritual guide, Swami Sri Yukteswar, his spiritual quest found a new expression and fulfillment. Ultimately, he attained to the coveted super-conscious state of realization. He was divinely chosen to carry India's priceless techniques to the western world and was widely acknowledged as the most successful yoga teacher in the west. Due to his untiring efforts, the whole world was introduced to the wonderful technique of Kriya Yoga. His extremely loving and endearing qualities earned him the title 'Premavatar' or the incarnation of love. His exalted spiritual stature encouraged his Master to confer on him the coveted title of 'Paramhansa'. Was the second President and Sadhusabhapati of Karar Ashram.

Swami Satyananda Giri


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Known as Manomohan Ghosh, he was a close friend of Paramhansa Yogananda and shared similar a spiritual quest. Was extremely rational and practical in his approach that were further shaped by his Guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri. Laying more stress on karma or 'right action' along with yogic techniques, he pursued a comprehensive and holistic path in his quest for self realization. A tireless worker and organizer, he single handedly looked after the management and well being of several institutions simultaneously including the Karar Ashram. A gentle and ego-less saint, he was revered as much for his simplicity as for his spiritual attainments. Was the 3rd President and Sadhusabhapati of Karar Ashram.

Swami Hariharananda Giri


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Born in the spiritual land of Nadia (in Bengal), Rabinarayan Bhattacharya chose the spiritual path quite early in life. He was a unique saint being privileged to come in close contact of four fully realized Masters – Swami Sri Yukteswar, Bhupendranath Sanyal, Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Satyananda Giri. He imbibed the special qualities of each of his Masters. Following the wishes of his Master, he easily scaled the barriers of consciousness to reach the state of 'Nirvikalpa Samadhi'. He was instrumental in spreading Kriya Yoga in different parts of India and abroad and had innumerable disciples. Till his Mahasamadhi, he worked tirelessly to achieve the aims and objectives of the Karar Ashram as cherished by his Master.

Swami Yogeswarananda Giri


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Sudhanshumauli Patra grew up differently than most others. Exhibiting extraordinary spiritual thirst from his childhood, he found little peace in the mundane world. Being obviously blessed, he received initiation from his Gurudev, Swami Hariharananda Giri while still in school. His spiritual progress was so rapid that by the time he joined the Karar Ashram as a permanent inmate, he had already been granted initiation into the third stage of Kriya. Upon joining the Ashram to lead the celibate life, his spiritual progress was further quickened and soon, he attained the highest stage of Nirvikalpa Samadhi. His spiritual attainments were acknowledged by the other great Masters like Swami Paramananda Giri, Swami Bhavananda Giri and Swami Narayan Giri. His efficiency in managing the affairs of the Ashram convinced his Gurudev to declare him as his only successor and to relinquish the post of the President even during his life time. Being the fifth and the current President and Sadhusabhapati of the Karar Ashram, he continues to discharge the duties and obligations cast upon him by the Masters to perfection.