People say me sivananda paramahamsa but i'm jagat jyoti (universal flame or divine)
Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa
Beloved Father of Life (Atma Pitha)
Founder of Siddha Samajam , Vadakara
Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa
His Holiness Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa, born in the small town of Vatakara in North Malabar, Kerala, emerged as a significant spiritual leader whose teachings continue to inspire many to practise siddha vidya . Early in his life, Swami observed the inevitable suffering that accompanies death, which deeply moved him and set him on a path of intense contemplation and spiritual quest. Driven by a profound desire to alleviate this universal suffering, Swami renounced worldly life and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual practice.
Swami’s quest was marked by immense suffering, self-sacrifice, and relentless effort. Through this rigorous process, he discovered "Siddha Vidya," a profound method that transcend death . Siddha Vidya, as articulated by Swami, is centered on the realization that the Self is synonymous with God and is eternally existent. This Self persists even during sleep, a state where mental passions such as love and hatred do not exist. Swami argued that to realize God, one must transcend these mental passions, achievable by merging the mind with what he called Jeeva or life itself.
Swami's philosophy emphasized the importance of understanding the transient nature of the mind. He observed that in sleep, the mind becomes non-existent, placing everyone on an equal footing, regardless of their earthly status. By luring or merging the mind with the essence of life, Swami believed that one could attain the realization of God. This profound insight formed the cornerstone of his teachings and spiritual practice.
Building upon this philosophy, Swami established the foundation for global welfare through the Siddha Samaj, an association in Malabar. The practice of Pranayama, a technique of breath control, was integral to his method, aiding individuals in achieving self-realization. After attaining self-realization himself through dedicated practice, Swami devoted his life to guiding others. He selflessly chose to descend from his exalted spiritual state to mingle with common people, preaching and initiating them into the path of Siddha Vidya.
Swami’s teachings transcended social barriers, attracting followers from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, or social standing. The growing number of his adherents highlighted the necessity for a structured community, leading to the establishment of the Siddha Samaj in 1921. This organization became a beacon for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and self-realization, following the noble path laid out by Swami.
The life and teachings of His Holiness Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa left an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape. His relentless pursuit of a solution to human suffering, his realization of the eternal Self, and his compassionate dissemination of this knowledge profoundly impacted many lives. Swami attained Jeeva Samadhi on June 21, 1949 in Palani foot hills, a state of eternal meditation, and his resting place is revered at the Siddha Samaj Head Office in Vatakara, Kerala.
Swami’s legacy continues to inspire spiritual seekers around the world. His teachings on the eternal nature of the Self and the transcendence of mental passions offer a path to inner peace and enlightenment. The Siddha Vidya stands as a testament to his vision of a world where individuals, through self-realization, can overcome suffering and realize their divine nature.
