On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Ganeshpuri, India, Baba Muktananda took mahasamadhi—leaving his physical body and merging with universal Consciousness.
To share your own experience of Baba’s mahasamadhi in October 1982, please click the link below.
During my childhood, my father would tell me stories of having Baba’s darshan. I always wished I could have had the blessed opportunity to be in Baba’s company.
This year on the eve of October 2, as I was reading these heart-touching shares, I felt a deep longing to be with Baba. I paused in the middle of my reading, looked at Baba’s picture in my room, and said to him inwardly, “These experiences are so beautiful! All these people have experienced your presence in such blessed ways. I, too, want to have your darshan.”
No sooner had I expressed my prayer than a radiant blue light shone next to Baba’s photograph. The brilliance of that light was extraordinary. As I watched this light sparkle, I felt a tangible, divine presence, a rush of delight. I was enveloped by a sweet feeling of peace. I knew it was Baba who was giving me darshan in the form of this extraordinary blue light and the happiness in my heart. I recognized that Baba is right here with me, listening to me when I speak with him; he is always with me.
This year on the eve of October 2, as I was reading these heart-touching shares, I felt a deep longing to be with Baba. I paused in the middle of my reading, looked at Baba’s picture in my room, and said to him inwardly, “These experiences are so beautiful! All these people have experienced your presence in such blessed ways. I, too, want to have your darshan.”
No sooner had I expressed my prayer than a radiant blue light shone next to Baba’s photograph. The brilliance of that light was extraordinary. As I watched this light sparkle, I felt a tangible, divine presence, a rush of delight. I was enveloped by a sweet feeling of peace. I knew it was Baba who was giving me darshan in the form of this extraordinary blue light and the happiness in my heart. I recognized that Baba is right here with me, listening to me when I speak with him; he is always with me.
a Gurukula student in Gurudev Siddha Peeth
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, the night that Baba left his body, I was at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan. There was tremendous sadness and shock, but also great love. Shortly after, I was on the subway going home, and as I looked at all the people in the subway car, all I could see in their eyes was love. I felt that Baba had left his body and entered into the whole world in an explosion of grace.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, while I was watching a video in Guru Chowk in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, I became aware that Baba was walking down the center aisle. He momentarily stopped at the row where I was seated. I saw that his pale purple socks were turned my way. I mentally bowed to his feet, feeling deep gratitude and love for Baba.
The next morning, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. It was such a shock to hear that Baba had left his body. I joined the chant in the Temple and then offered my breakfast seva.
Initially, I felt sad and disoriented. But after a few days of participating in the continuous chanting, I realized that it was Baba who had recognized who I truly am. And his recognition opened the path for me to recognize my own Self. The preciousness of Baba’s gift left me breathless and forever grateful.
The next morning, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. It was such a shock to hear that Baba had left his body. I joined the chant in the Temple and then offered my breakfast seva.
Initially, I felt sad and disoriented. But after a few days of participating in the continuous chanting, I realized that it was Baba who had recognized who I truly am. And his recognition opened the path for me to recognize my own Self. The preciousness of Baba’s gift left me breathless and forever grateful.
Clifton Hill, Australia
On the afternoon of the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was driving home from a business meeting. Spontaneously, I began to chant Guru Om continuously and ecstatically. This was something that I had never done before. When I arrived home, I received a telephone call from someone at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. He delivered the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi at approximately the same time I’d had my ecstatic experience of chanting while driving.
I immediately made travel plans for the soonest possible flight to India. I arrived in Gurudev Siddha Peeth on the day after Baba’s physical form had been interred in his Samadhi Shrine. While sitting in this sacred space, I felt a sense of great joy because I had an experience of Baba speaking to me within my heart. It seemed that Baba was communicating with me even more directly and powerfully than he had when I experienced his physical darshan.
I immediately made travel plans for the soonest possible flight to India. I arrived in Gurudev Siddha Peeth on the day after Baba’s physical form had been interred in his Samadhi Shrine. While sitting in this sacred space, I felt a sense of great joy because I had an experience of Baba speaking to me within my heart. It seemed that Baba was communicating with me even more directly and powerfully than he had when I experienced his physical darshan.
New York, United States
On the full-moon evening of October 2, 1982, I was offering seva in Shree Muktananda Ashram. When the sun went down, I went over to Lake Nityananda to enjoy the spectacular full moon. As I sat there basking in the radiant moonlight, I was drawn to the extraordinary clarity and size of the moon on that night. Then I started to feel what seemed like waves of shakti gently washing over my being like a mild surf caressing the beach. I became enveloped by a pure feeling of love for Baba. Eventually, I headed back in an ecstatic state, still full of this incredibly sweet love for Baba. When I returned, I instantly felt that something was different. I asked a friend what was going on, and he said that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Even though these words carried immense gravity, I still felt the sweet embrace of Baba’s loving shakti, which stayed with me for days. This experience made me realize that Baba had never left, that he was still with me.
California, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I offered seva in the Amrit dish room and then recited Shri Rudram in the Bhagavan Nityananda Temple with Baba. I watched Baba offer pranam before his Guru’s murti before walking out to the courtyard to give darshan. All that week, since his return from Kashmir, Baba’s gaze had been inward; it was so powerful. After bowing to Baba in darshan, I felt filled with very strong shakti. That night the moon was full and extremely beautiful.
Early the next morning my seva supervisor told me that Baba had left his body. I cried throughout my seva shift; it seemed like I was washing the dishes with dishwater and tears. Many people arrived in the Ashram to pay their respects, and there were many dishes to wash.
Then I was sick for a week. I stayed in my room reading Baba’s books. Reading Baba’s teachings, my heart was filled with peace. I knew that Baba would always live among us through his teachings—and in the wonderful shakti I continue to feel within me.
Early the next morning my seva supervisor told me that Baba had left his body. I cried throughout my seva shift; it seemed like I was washing the dishes with dishwater and tears. Many people arrived in the Ashram to pay their respects, and there were many dishes to wash.
Then I was sick for a week. I stayed in my room reading Baba’s books. Reading Baba’s teachings, my heart was filled with peace. I knew that Baba would always live among us through his teachings—and in the wonderful shakti I continue to feel within me.
Guadalajara, Mexico
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I experienced in meditation a rumbling energy deep within, which quickly moved upward. The energy then gathered into a bundle of what I perceived as my individual-identifying traits and lifted up and out of my body, hovering at some distance. In its place I was suddenly a huge vessel of electric-blue light, which I immediately identified as Baba. Swaying in ecstasy, I began repeating to myself, “I am filled with Muktananda!”
After a while the bundle of “me” returned and started to redistribute itself throughout my body, merging remarkably with the blue light as though that light was the substance I was truly made of. This time I exclaimed in astonishment, “I am made out of Muktananda!”
The next day, when I learned about Baba’s departure, I understood that he had not only visited me upon his leaving, but had given me a trove of his fundamental teachings, especially: “God dwells within you as you.” My gratitude for that moment has never diminished.
After a while the bundle of “me” returned and started to redistribute itself throughout my body, merging remarkably with the blue light as though that light was the substance I was truly made of. This time I exclaimed in astonishment, “I am made out of Muktananda!”
The next day, when I learned about Baba’s departure, I understood that he had not only visited me upon his leaving, but had given me a trove of his fundamental teachings, especially: “God dwells within you as you.” My gratitude for that moment has never diminished.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I had a vivid dream in which I saw an image of Baba. I woke up feeling absolutely exuberant. I wanted to take in everything around me. So, I looked out the large window of my apartment, stretched out my arms wide, and symbolically embraced the world around me. My heart felt open, light, and full of joy.
Later that morning, I received a call from someone at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. They informed me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I knew then that Baba had given me his blessings and a taste of the bliss of samadhi as he left this world. I also felt I had received a confirmation from Baba that this experience of joy is my birthright.
Later that morning, I received a call from someone at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. They informed me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I knew then that Baba had given me his blessings and a taste of the bliss of samadhi as he left this world. I also felt I had received a confirmation from Baba that this experience of joy is my birthright.
California, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I arrived home in the afternoon to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Santa Monica, where I lived with my family at that time. Upon entering, I immediately sensed that something had happened. Everyone was so quiet. Then, someone told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
I was eleven years old, and that information hit me hard. I had met Baba at the age of four and couldn’t remember a time without him in my life. He was the one I looked up to as my teacher and my example. I had thought he would always be there and that he would never die. Although I didn’t experience it that way at the time, I have realized over the years that I was right about that.
I was eleven years old, and that information hit me hard. I had met Baba at the age of four and couldn’t remember a time without him in my life. He was the one I looked up to as my teacher and my example. I had thought he would always be there and that he would never die. Although I didn’t experience it that way at the time, I have realized over the years that I was right about that.
Barcelona, Spain
On the full moon day in 1982, when I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, I was devastated. It was still early in my sadhana, and I didn’t yet have a clear understanding of what mahasamadhi meant. All I knew was that Baba was gone. I felt that I had lost my Guru and would never be able to visit him in India as I had planned.
To deal with this loss, I spent hours each day, for the next several months, chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktananda. Later, when I met Gurumayi, I immediately recognized her as my Guru, and my sense of lack disappeared. However, for a long time, my sadness would return every October.
Recently, when rereading a poem by Gurumayi, I gained a fresh understanding that the sense of loss I felt in 1982 was actually a blessing in disguise. It drove me to remember Baba, to chant his name, and in this way, to bathe myself in the flow of his benevolent grace.
To deal with this loss, I spent hours each day, for the next several months, chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktananda. Later, when I met Gurumayi, I immediately recognized her as my Guru, and my sense of lack disappeared. However, for a long time, my sadness would return every October.
Recently, when rereading a poem by Gurumayi, I gained a fresh understanding that the sense of loss I felt in 1982 was actually a blessing in disguise. It drove me to remember Baba, to chant his name, and in this way, to bathe myself in the flow of his benevolent grace.
Crozon, France
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was at my parents’ home and feeling compelled to get rid of many of my old belongings that were still there. I was still quite new to the Siddha Yoga path and unsure of my connection. The next day I went back into Manhattan, where I was living, and attended a gathering with a group of people, when one man said that Baba Muktananda had just died. I unexpectedly gasped and went to the man to ask for more information. He told me they were chanting at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan, and so I made my way there. I spent many hours there over the next thirty days as the saptah for Baba continued. I found my connection to the Siddha Yoga path during those hours of chanting. To this day, when I hear that raga of Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, my heart swells with a very particular sweetness. I came to understand that I had been moved to get rid of my old things to make room inside myself for the grace of the Guru.
Montana, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was living in New Jersey where I offered music seva at the nearby center. That afternoon a friend called to tell me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. We went to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan and joined the all-night chant of Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. Initially I felt shock and grief, but they soon dissipated as I relived the many sweet memories of Baba, beginning with my shaktipat experience in 1976. Gratitude welled up in my heart, and a prayer arose: “Oh Baba, you have given me so much. I wish I could do something for you.” Hours later I was asked to play the drum for one and a half hours—much longer than I had ever played before. I prayed to Baba and experienced the support I needed to play for this long. I felt Baba’s presence, serenity, and bliss within my heart. Tears of joy flowed—and still do!
Pennsylvania, United States
My father heard the news of Baba’s passing on a television channel in Mumbai. Right away he told us there was no school that day as we were driving to Ganeshpuri for Baba’s darshan.
When we arrived in the Ashram, we were seated in Guru Chowk—the open-air meditation hall adjoining the courtyard—where devotees were chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. At some point, I went for darshan with my father.
This is what I recall seeing as a child:
Baba’s body, seated in a chair, was adorned in orange silk clothes, a rudraksha mala around his neck, bhasma on his forehead. He seemed to be shining and in deep meditation. I felt that he did not leave us. I kept chanting his name.
On a previous visit to the Ashram, I had experienced that Baba was full of light. On another visit I had received shaktipat initiation from him. I experienced meditative states in my childhood, and always felt that Baba was within me. To this day I constantly think of him.
When we arrived in the Ashram, we were seated in Guru Chowk—the open-air meditation hall adjoining the courtyard—where devotees were chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. At some point, I went for darshan with my father.
This is what I recall seeing as a child:
Baba’s body, seated in a chair, was adorned in orange silk clothes, a rudraksha mala around his neck, bhasma on his forehead. He seemed to be shining and in deep meditation. I felt that he did not leave us. I kept chanting his name.
On a previous visit to the Ashram, I had experienced that Baba was full of light. On another visit I had received shaktipat initiation from him. I experienced meditative states in my childhood, and always felt that Baba was within me. To this day I constantly think of him.
Bandra Mumbai, India
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, when I arrived to offer seva at the switchboard of Shree Muktananda Ashram, I found my co-sevite in tears. She told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. It was our responsibility to be there for Siddha Yoga students from around the world who would be calling in. As I composed myself for the hours ahead, I thanked Baba for preparing me. I clung to his teachings, and the knowledge they gave me that Baba would never leave me.
This October 2, as I read people’s sublime experiences of that day, I wondered again, as I often have, why at the time, in 1982, I’d felt no explosion of grace in my heart. I decided to ask Baba why that was. The answer I heard from within dissolved all my doubts: “I entered your heart the day we met.” This was true. The instant I first saw Baba in 1981, I knew he was my Guru. He would never leave me.
This October 2, as I read people’s sublime experiences of that day, I wondered again, as I often have, why at the time, in 1982, I’d felt no explosion of grace in my heart. I decided to ask Baba why that was. The answer I heard from within dissolved all my doubts: “I entered your heart the day we met.” This was true. The instant I first saw Baba in 1981, I knew he was my Guru. He would never leave me.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I had a dream that I was with Baba in Gurudev Siddha Peeth Ashram. Baba was sitting on a raised platform, and he was in shambhavi mudra . Baba was directing three attendants, who were preparing for his mahasamadhi.
At some point, the attendants looked over at me and asked Baba why I—someone they did not know—was there on this auspicious occasion. Baba replied, “She is with me because we are one.”
The next morning, the manager of the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Oakland called me to let me know that Baba had left his body during the night. Baba’s passing left me with a profound sadness, yet I was consoled and uplifted by his final words to me in my dream. I felt that Baba had been assuring me that our relationship transcended time and space. Baba has continued to be with me ever since his passing, through his teachings and inner guidance, and most of all through the love and presence of Gurumayi.
At some point, the attendants looked over at me and asked Baba why I—someone they did not know—was there on this auspicious occasion. Baba replied, “She is with me because we are one.”
The next morning, the manager of the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Oakland called me to let me know that Baba had left his body during the night. Baba’s passing left me with a profound sadness, yet I was consoled and uplifted by his final words to me in my dream. I felt that Baba had been assuring me that our relationship transcended time and space. Baba has continued to be with me ever since his passing, through his teachings and inner guidance, and most of all through the love and presence of Gurumayi.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, my wife and I, who were then living in Illinois, received a call from a friend who told us that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. We then chanted and meditated late into the night.
I was serving as a campus minister at the University of Illinois at the time. The next morning, Sunday October 3, I was assisting in worship at my church. I had been asked to read one of the biblical scriptures, which turned out to be Psalm 23. I will never forget that as I began to read, I looked up and saw in the back of the sanctuary the image of Baba, his face smiling and full of love. I don’t know how long I stood there, absorbed in Baba’s presence, although it was probably not long at all. I was filled with gratitude because I knew that Baba would be with me always.
I was serving as a campus minister at the University of Illinois at the time. The next morning, Sunday October 3, I was assisting in worship at my church. I had been asked to read one of the biblical scriptures, which turned out to be Psalm 23. I will never forget that as I began to read, I looked up and saw in the back of the sanctuary the image of Baba, his face smiling and full of love. I don’t know how long I stood there, absorbed in Baba’s presence, although it was probably not long at all. I was filled with gratitude because I knew that Baba would be with me always.
Washington, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, after several weeks of not meditating, I sat for meditation and was surprised to go deep inside. I had a vision of what I later came to know as Shiva Nataraj. I was so overwhelmed and amazed at my good fortune. Later that day, I got a call from the meditation center leader letting me know that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I realized that it was Baba who had visited me as Shiva Nataraj. I felt so fortunate and knew that Baba was truly a sadguru.
I joined in the weeks-long chanting saptah. On the last night of the saptah, I chanted overnight for over twelve hours and discovered how sustained I am by chanting. I felt great the next day. While I had felt sad and abandoned when I first learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, through chanting I experienced his sustaining presence and knew that I would continue my sadhana.
I joined in the weeks-long chanting saptah. On the last night of the saptah, I chanted overnight for over twelve hours and discovered how sustained I am by chanting. I felt great the next day. While I had felt sad and abandoned when I first learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, through chanting I experienced his sustaining presence and knew that I would continue my sadhana.
Washington, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was at home when I received a call that Baba had left his body. I experienced feelings of sadness and joy at the same time. I was determined to fly to Gurudev Siddha Peeth right away to find out more and be in the presence of his shakti.
I went to my boss and asked for some days off to go to India. He said, “But you have been there already in May this year. Why do you need to go again?” It was true that I had been there in May for the succession ceremony. I replied that my Guru, Swami Muktananda, had passed away and explained who he was for me. My days off were approved.
When I arrived, the Ashram was very peaceful and welcoming. Baba’s shakti was so palpable. I saw Gurumayi seated in the courtyard with an expression of humility and compassion on her face. This reassured me deeply. Baba had taken mahasamadhi, but Gurumayi was going to be present to guide me on my spiritual journey.
I went to my boss and asked for some days off to go to India. He said, “But you have been there already in May this year. Why do you need to go again?” It was true that I had been there in May for the succession ceremony. I replied that my Guru, Swami Muktananda, had passed away and explained who he was for me. My days off were approved.
When I arrived, the Ashram was very peaceful and welcoming. Baba’s shakti was so palpable. I saw Gurumayi seated in the courtyard with an expression of humility and compassion on her face. This reassured me deeply. Baba had taken mahasamadhi, but Gurumayi was going to be present to guide me on my spiritual journey.
Nottingham, United Kingdom
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was still quite new to the Siddha Yoga path, but I had had the great good fortune to meet Baba in Gurudev Siddha Peeth a few months earlier.
That October night I was lying in bed unable to fall asleep. With my eyes closed, I saw Baba walk into my field of vision surrounded by many devotees. They were ecstatically chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya . Baba looked at me while all the devotees stayed focused on him. Then he turned and entered my being.
As I have contemplated this experience over the years, what stands out is Baba’s glorious generosity in granting me this darshan even though I had not been very consistent at following the practices. Baba is truly the great giver!
That October night I was lying in bed unable to fall asleep. With my eyes closed, I saw Baba walk into my field of vision surrounded by many devotees. They were ecstatically chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya . Baba looked at me while all the devotees stayed focused on him. Then he turned and entered my being.
As I have contemplated this experience over the years, what stands out is Baba’s glorious generosity in granting me this darshan even though I had not been very consistent at following the practices. Baba is truly the great giver!
Sydney, Australia
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I had a vivid dream.
In the dream, I entered the lobby of a big London hotel, where a man with an orange hat was seated cross-legged in front of a crowd of people. The man looked across at me, and I woke up, his image powerfully imprinted on my mind.
The next day, my yoga teacher shared with me that her Guru, Baba Muktananda, had left his body. She showed me a picture of Baba, and it was the man from my dream! Our eyes were moist when we realized this significant occurrence. I have been a Siddha Yoga student ever since.
In the dream, I entered the lobby of a big London hotel, where a man with an orange hat was seated cross-legged in front of a crowd of people. The man looked across at me, and I woke up, his image powerfully imprinted on my mind.
The next day, my yoga teacher shared with me that her Guru, Baba Muktananda, had left his body. She showed me a picture of Baba, and it was the man from my dream! Our eyes were moist when we realized this significant occurrence. I have been a Siddha Yoga student ever since.
Bude, United Kingdom
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was having dinner when something inside told me to go out and start walking. It was raining softly, and I had no idea where I was going, but I felt calm. After a few minutes, I reached a graveyard that was right beside the ocean. I stood at the entrance to the graveyard, listening to the waves gently crashing against the shore.
Suddenly I heard a car pull up. It was full of Baba’s students, and for some reason, I was not surprised by their unexpected arrival. They told me that Baba had left his body. I felt shock and grief, but a profound blanket of peacefulness and calm enveloped me as well.
I felt a deep reassurance that everything was going to be all right. And indeed, through all the ups and downs of my life since that time, that sense of peace and calm has been my companion, a safe harbor in challenging times.
Suddenly I heard a car pull up. It was full of Baba’s students, and for some reason, I was not surprised by their unexpected arrival. They told me that Baba had left his body. I felt shock and grief, but a profound blanket of peacefulness and calm enveloped me as well.
I felt a deep reassurance that everything was going to be all right. And indeed, through all the ups and downs of my life since that time, that sense of peace and calm has been my companion, a safe harbor in challenging times.
Vancouver, Canada
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was alone in the meditation hall just off the courtyard in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Suddenly I heard an inner voice urging me to go outside. I got up, walked out to the courtyard, and joined a small group of people sitting near Baba’s chair. Unexpectedly, the door to Baba’s house opened, and Baba quietly came out and sat with us for a few moments; then he went back inside.
To be called to be in his presence and have his darshan one last time was a profound and meaningful act of compassion for me.
To be called to be in his presence and have his darshan one last time was a profound and meaningful act of compassion for me.
North Carolina, United States
In the afternoon of the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I went to the courtyard at Gurudev Siddha Peeth for Baba’s darshan. As I neared Baba, I was feeling especially blissful and had the thought, “This is all due to Baba.” When I reached Baba and bowed, he said, “Yes, yes,” acknowledging that my thought was correct.
That night, leaving the evening chant, I noticed that Baba had been watching us chant. I was awakened at dawn by someone saying: “Go to the courtyard; Baba had a heart attack.”
On my way to the courtyard, I heard chanting in the Temple and joined in. From the look on the harmonium player’s face, I could tell that something very serious had occurred. I left the chant and went to the courtyard. People were crying. And I knew.
That night, leaving the evening chant, I noticed that Baba had been watching us chant. I was awakened at dawn by someone saying: “Go to the courtyard; Baba had a heart attack.”
On my way to the courtyard, I heard chanting in the Temple and joined in. From the look on the harmonium player’s face, I could tell that something very serious had occurred. I left the chant and went to the courtyard. People were crying. And I knew.
California, United States
The day after the full moon of October 2, 1982, I went to the center in Perth to recite Shri Guru Gita and heard that Baba had just taken mahasamadhi.
I felt a strong longing to have his final darshan in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, but I knew this was not possible. After reciting Shri Guru Gita, we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya all day. Baba’s presence was palpable. I felt still inside. The trees and flowers in the garden were glowing with light.
One month later, I got married, and my parents gave my husband and me the gift of a trip to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. There, I had Gurumayi’s darshan. And I knew that this was Baba’s gift to me.
I felt a strong longing to have his final darshan in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, but I knew this was not possible. After reciting Shri Guru Gita, we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya all day. Baba’s presence was palpable. I felt still inside. The trees and flowers in the garden were glowing with light.
One month later, I got married, and my parents gave my husband and me the gift of a trip to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. There, I had Gurumayi’s darshan. And I knew that this was Baba’s gift to me.
Sydney, Australia
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I felt a moment of shock when I heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, followed quickly by an overwhelming sense of joy and love.
As a center leader, I needed to communicate the news, and I found myself telling people over and again that it’s all right, everything is all right. When I prepared the center for the chant, a beautiful blue light suffused the space, filling me with great joy. In this state of joy, I felt ready to support others in understanding that Baba had entered the universal heart of which we are all a part.
As a center leader, I needed to communicate the news, and I found myself telling people over and again that it’s all right, everything is all right. When I prepared the center for the chant, a beautiful blue light suffused the space, filling me with great joy. In this state of joy, I felt ready to support others in understanding that Baba had entered the universal heart of which we are all a part.
Battle, United Kingdom
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was still feeling new to the Siddha Yoga path, having met Baba for the first time in July 1981. But when a friend called to tell me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, I immediately left work and traveled up to the Siddha Yoga Ashram on 86th Street in New York.
Hundreds of people were already there, chanting and totally absorbed in their love for the Guru. I stood outside with them for several hours, chanting, feeling their grief, and I, too, felt loss and sadness.
However, in the years that have gone by, my inner relationship with Baba has grown stronger. I know that he always watches over me and that I can speak to him any time I wish.
Hundreds of people were already there, chanting and totally absorbed in their love for the Guru. I stood outside with them for several hours, chanting, feeling their grief, and I, too, felt loss and sadness.
However, in the years that have gone by, my inner relationship with Baba has grown stronger. I know that he always watches over me and that I can speak to him any time I wish.
New York, United States
A few months before Baba took mahasamadhi, I had the privilege of being in his presence in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I was new to the Siddha Yoga path, and didn’t completely understand who Baba was or the Indian philosophy he was teaching. Yet I had started to meditate regularly and to attend satsangs at the Siddha Yoga Meditation Center in Paris.
On the full-moon day of October 2, while I was at home, I suddenly had a very vivid impression that Baba had just entered my heart. It was a blissful moment, giving me the certitude that YES! Baba was my Guru and we will always be together. A few days later I heard that the day Baba had left his body was that same day he entered my heart—as he did for so many other people.
Today, remembering this moment, I will chant and meditate in gratitude.
On the full-moon day of October 2, while I was at home, I suddenly had a very vivid impression that Baba had just entered my heart. It was a blissful moment, giving me the certitude that YES! Baba was my Guru and we will always be together. A few days later I heard that the day Baba had left his body was that same day he entered my heart—as he did for so many other people.
Today, remembering this moment, I will chant and meditate in gratitude.
Quebec City, Canada
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was new to the Siddha Yoga path. But I had been going to chants at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center, and had created a separate meditation room in my home with a small altar with pictures of Baba and Gurumayi.
That day I had come there to meditate. Yet all I could do was cry in front of Baba’s picture and offer pranam in front of Gurumayi’s picture. When I went to the Center that night for the chant, I heard that Baba had left his body. Even though I was very new to the Center and not yet that connected to the people attending satsangs there, Baba had let me know we were connected and had directed me to Gurumayi as my Guru.
I felt blessed.
That day I had come there to meditate. Yet all I could do was cry in front of Baba’s picture and offer pranam in front of Gurumayi’s picture. When I went to the Center that night for the chant, I heard that Baba had left his body. Even though I was very new to the Center and not yet that connected to the people attending satsangs there, Baba had let me know we were connected and had directed me to Gurumayi as my Guru.
I felt blessed.
Georgia, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, a fellow SYDA Foundation staff member and I were driving in the Catskill Mountains of New York, not far from the site of Shree Muktananda Ashram. We were in a little sports car with the top down. The day was glorious. It flashed with the brilliant reds, yellows, and oranges of the autumn foliage.
When we arrived back at the Ashram, we found that strings of Christmas lights were on. We were told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Even now, that day resonates in my mind as being filled with light, brilliance, and Baba’s colors. I felt immersed in and surrounded by Baba’s light throughout that whole day.
When we arrived back at the Ashram, we found that strings of Christmas lights were on. We were told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Even now, that day resonates in my mind as being filled with light, brilliance, and Baba’s colors. I felt immersed in and surrounded by Baba’s light throughout that whole day.
Maryland, United States
In the fall of 1982 I moved to a new city in order to complete my studies. I had received shaktipat from Baba in meditation one year earlier.
I was sad to have left behind the vibrant community of Siddha Yogis who had supported me in exploring the Siddha Yoga practices. I was longing for a sangham in my new town.
On the evening of October 2, 1982, on the doorsteps of my university, someone approached me, asking: “Are you interested in yoga?” I stopped in my tracks. I felt like Baba was telling me that there was no need for me to look for a new sangham, that instead I could become the nucleus of such a group of devotees. I went home with a new sense of purpose. The next day a friend shared the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Two years later I met the only other Siddha Yogi living in my town, and eventually we founded a Siddha Yoga Meditation Center, which I am still attending to this very day. I felt the Center was a manifestation of Baba’s blessing.
I was sad to have left behind the vibrant community of Siddha Yogis who had supported me in exploring the Siddha Yoga practices. I was longing for a sangham in my new town.
On the evening of October 2, 1982, on the doorsteps of my university, someone approached me, asking: “Are you interested in yoga?” I stopped in my tracks. I felt like Baba was telling me that there was no need for me to look for a new sangham, that instead I could become the nucleus of such a group of devotees. I went home with a new sense of purpose. The next day a friend shared the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Two years later I met the only other Siddha Yogi living in my town, and eventually we founded a Siddha Yoga Meditation Center, which I am still attending to this very day. I felt the Center was a manifestation of Baba’s blessing.
Vienna, Austria
On the evening of the full moon day of October 2, 1982, I shared with my ten-year-old daughter that Baba had just left his body. My daughter, who had met Baba when she was seven, peacefully replied: “Baba has not died. He is now in the heart of everyone.”
Paris, France
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was living in Maryland. I received a call saying that Baba had left his body and that several people would be traveling to India. I had a one-year-old child and couldn’t travel abroad. But that night, because my parents were visiting, I could go to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Washington, DC, where a nonstop chant “Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya” had begun and would continue for weeks.
I also went to the Ashram daily on my way home from work. I cried for days—until one day I was looking at Baba’s photo on the wall. He was seated on a bench with laughter on his lips. Suddenly, I heard Baba say very clearly, “I am alive, I haven’t gone anywhere, I’ve entered the hearts of my devotees—I’m in your heart.” A warm sensation emanating from my heart spread throughout my body. My tears turned to laughter, and I knew what Baba said was true. To this day, I know that Baba is fully seated in my heart and in the hearts of all those who know and love him.
I also went to the Ashram daily on my way home from work. I cried for days—until one day I was looking at Baba’s photo on the wall. He was seated on a bench with laughter on his lips. Suddenly, I heard Baba say very clearly, “I am alive, I haven’t gone anywhere, I’ve entered the hearts of my devotees—I’m in your heart.” A warm sensation emanating from my heart spread throughout my body. My tears turned to laughter, and I knew what Baba said was true. To this day, I know that Baba is fully seated in my heart and in the hearts of all those who know and love him.
West Virginia, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, sleeping in the women’s dormitory. I was awoken by the chant Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya eerily echoing across the night sky. There was a sudden knock on the door and we were told to get dressed and proceed to the Nityananda Temple to chant because Baba was sick. After sunrise, it was announced that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Later, everyone was invited into Baba’s house to have his final darshan. Baba sat in an upright, cross-legged position, draped in orange silk. The atmosphere was like a wave of scintillating energy so palpable, I could barely stand up.
Later, everyone was invited into Baba’s house to have his final darshan. Baba sat in an upright, cross-legged position, draped in orange silk. The atmosphere was like a wave of scintillating energy so palpable, I could barely stand up.
During my time at the Ashram, I had been given the seva of sewing for Baba. I’d learned patience and how to sew silk in tiny, even stitches. The significance of offering this seva dawned on me when I saw the orange silk draped over Baba’s form.
Ocean Shores, Australia
On the afternoon of the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, I was driving to the airport—a twenty-mile trip—to pick up my husband. It was a beautiful sunny day. As I was driving, I felt Baba’s presence everywhere. He was all around me and absolutely everywhere I looked. I was filled with love for Baba and felt deep happiness.
When I arrived home, I received a call letting me know that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. My happiness and love grew, and I have continued to feel Baba’s presence.
When I arrived home, I received a call letting me know that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. My happiness and love grew, and I have continued to feel Baba’s presence.
Maryland, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, the evening was crisp and chilly. After driving to my friend’s home for a short visit, I entered through the kitchen door—and was immediately greeted by two women whose eyes were wide open and intently staring into mine with grave interest. One said, “You haven’t heard that Muktananda died today.” They knew I was devoted to Baba.
Though the news surprised me, it did not sadden me at all; rather, I immediately felt more deeply connected with my Guru. My friends were surprised I did not burst into tears; they had been sorry to have to give me such news, afraid that my heart would break. But instead of feeling heartbroken, my heart expanded with the feeling of having constant access to Baba. And so it has been ever since.
Though the news surprised me, it did not sadden me at all; rather, I immediately felt more deeply connected with my Guru. My friends were surprised I did not burst into tears; they had been sorry to have to give me such news, afraid that my heart would break. But instead of feeling heartbroken, my heart expanded with the feeling of having constant access to Baba. And so it has been ever since.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was walking home to my apartment in New York City. Just before going inside, I gazed at the huge full moon in a moment of gratitude for having the gift of a physical body. Once home, I lay down on my bed and suddenly my body became rigid and immovable. The ceiling above my bed turned into the blue sky, which scrolled back, opening a space where a beautiful face appeared. This being said the words “I love you.”
Next, I heard the sound of rolling thunder, and felt a rolling sensation along my spine. At the crown of my head, I felt myself to be God Consciousness, while up and down my spine I experienced my lifetimes as both a human and many other life forms. Throughout all this, I heard the joyful laughter of my Guru, Baba Muktananda. I sensed he was saying, “I’ve been with you through all these lifetimes, and will always be with you.”
When I came out of this and could move again, I left my bedroom—and only then heard the news from my roommate: Baba Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi.Next, I heard the sound of rolling thunder, and felt a rolling sensation along my spine. At the crown of my head, I felt myself to be God Consciousness, while up and down my spine I experienced my lifetimes as both a human and many other life forms. Throughout all this, I heard the joyful laughter of my Guru, Baba Muktananda. I sensed he was saying, “I’ve been with you through all these lifetimes, and will always be with you.”
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I received the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was stunned and in total disbelief that my Guru could have abandoned me in this way!
The next thing I remember from this time is chanting. During the day, I would chant during all my spare time. Each evening, I would meet with other Siddha Yogis in someone’s home, and we would chant two or three rounds of Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya with live music. On the weekends, we would join the month-long saptah being held at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Paris.
Each time I chanted, the same miracle took place: without fail, my grief and sense of loss would melt away and be replaced by a deep and vibrant peacefulness. At the end of the month, I was bathing in the same expanded state of sweet contentment and love I’d always felt in Baba’s presence. And I knew for sure he would always be there for me in the practices he had given us.
The next thing I remember from this time is chanting. During the day, I would chant during all my spare time. Each evening, I would meet with other Siddha Yogis in someone’s home, and we would chant two or three rounds of Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya with live music. On the weekends, we would join the month-long saptah being held at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Paris.
Each time I chanted, the same miracle took place: without fail, my grief and sense of loss would melt away and be replaced by a deep and vibrant peacefulness. At the end of the month, I was bathing in the same expanded state of sweet contentment and love I’d always felt in Baba’s presence. And I knew for sure he would always be there for me in the practices he had given us.
Beauvais, France
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I was a resident and staff member at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Paris, France. After dinner that day, we were invited to chant the usual evening chant in the chanting hall.
During the chant, I suddenly felt my physical body becoming heavier and heavier. At some point my body was becoming so heavy that I couldn’t hold my sitting posture anymore. Since I couldn’t lie down in the hall during the chant, I went to my room to lie down on my bed. My body was so heavy, it felt really strange. I didn’t know what was going on; I even thought I was dying right there on my bed.
Later on I heard from the other Ashram residents that Baba had taken mahasamadhi in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Suddenly I realized that it was my devotion for Baba and my strong connection with him that had made me feel as if I was also dying at the same time.
During the chant, I suddenly felt my physical body becoming heavier and heavier. At some point my body was becoming so heavy that I couldn’t hold my sitting posture anymore. Since I couldn’t lie down in the hall during the chant, I went to my room to lie down on my bed. My body was so heavy, it felt really strange. I didn’t know what was going on; I even thought I was dying right there on my bed.
Later on I heard from the other Ashram residents that Baba had taken mahasamadhi in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Suddenly I realized that it was my devotion for Baba and my strong connection with him that had made me feel as if I was also dying at the same time.
New York, United States
On the full-moon day of October 2, 1982, at the time of Baba’s mahasamadhi, I was meditating. I had a vision in which Baba appeared near me in a small wooden boat. When he reached the shoreline where I stood, he spoke hurriedly, telling me to get into the boat. After a brief pause, Baba repeated his instruction that I get into the boat now. Then we headed out into deeper water. Baba was seated in front. As he rowed, it was calm and peaceful. Soon I noticed that Baba was no longer there, and I became worried. Then a message, an inner knowing, began to arise—that I am actually the Guru, and with the Siddha Yoga practices and good effort, this knowledge can fully unfold.
Oregon, United States
In October of 1982 I had a vivid dream where Baba was standing in front of an altar inside of what appeared to be an old stone church. Baba asked me directly, “So how was your week? I want to know. How was your week?”
I was astonished and did not answer, and then I woke up. That same day a Siddha Yogi in my community called me and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi one week before.
I was astonished and did not answer, and then I woke up. That same day a Siddha Yogi in my community called me and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi one week before.
Washington, United States
The full-moon day of October 2, 1982, was a beautiful fall day in Shree Muktananda Ashram. I was offering seva as the Ashram manager. I went back to my room after lunch feeling extremely down. My wife was there, and she was also inexplicably sad. This was very unusual, so we did something that we never did in the middle of the day—we went to our puja and offered arati. At 2 p.m. I returned to my office. As I walked in, the telex machine was cranking away. I couldn’t believe what I saw: “Baba Muktananda has taken mahasamadhi.”
For the next two hours I was on the telex machine receiving more details from Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Finally, at 4 p.m., the transmission ended. We made the announcement of Baba’s passing and began the chanting of Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya. Soon after, the words spontaneously switched to Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, and the chanting continued for several weeks.
For the next two hours I was on the telex machine receiving more details from Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Finally, at 4 p.m., the transmission ended. We made the announcement of Baba’s passing and began the chanting of Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya. Soon after, the words spontaneously switched to Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, and the chanting continued for several weeks.
California, United States
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, meditating in my home in Oakland, California, I had a vision of myself alone in a deserted place, in the dark and afraid. Suddenly, I saw sparkling particles of light above my head and felt Baba’s presence around me.
As I gazed at the scintillating, brightly glowing light, I exclaimed in a loud voice, “It’s Baba! It’s Baba!” And with this, I came out of meditation. It was the first time I experienced Baba’s presence in meditation!
That afternoon, the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Oakland received the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I was consoled by my experience in meditation that morning, and felt that Baba would always be with me, protecting me from all harm.
I later learned that Baba had appeared to many of his devotees during their meditation that day.
As I gazed at the scintillating, brightly glowing light, I exclaimed in a loud voice, “It’s Baba! It’s Baba!” And with this, I came out of meditation. It was the first time I experienced Baba’s presence in meditation!
That afternoon, the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Oakland received the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I was consoled by my experience in meditation that morning, and felt that Baba would always be with me, protecting me from all harm.
I later learned that Baba had appeared to many of his devotees during their meditation that day.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was in Gurudev Siddha Peeth with my family. Walking by the courtyard, I saw Baba sitting in the dark, with Gurumayi beside him. I felt him watching us. I wanted to go over and offer him pranam, but thought it might be inappropriate, so I offered pranam inwardly.
I woke up before dawn to the sound of Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya resounding throughout the Ashram. I went out to the courtyard to see what was happening and was told Baba had taken mahasamadhi. His energy was palpable and scintillating everywhere.
Later that day, everyone in the Ashram was invited to walk through Baba’s house and have his darshan. He was positioned in a cross-legged posture and draped with a silk cloth. I felt that we were all being imbued with his energy, that as Baba merged with Consciousness, his shakti merged into us.
We were each given an object from Baba’s house. I still have my beaded bowl, which lives on my puja. As I remember this time, I feel Baba’s blessings are with me always.
I woke up before dawn to the sound of Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya resounding throughout the Ashram. I went out to the courtyard to see what was happening and was told Baba had taken mahasamadhi. His energy was palpable and scintillating everywhere.
Later that day, everyone in the Ashram was invited to walk through Baba’s house and have his darshan. He was positioned in a cross-legged posture and draped with a silk cloth. I felt that we were all being imbued with his energy, that as Baba merged with Consciousness, his shakti merged into us.
We were each given an object from Baba’s house. I still have my beaded bowl, which lives on my puja. As I remember this time, I feel Baba’s blessings are with me always.
St Helens, Australia
As I read the shares of so many Siddha Yogis describing the unique way in which Baba came to them at the moment he took mahasamadhi, I recalled my own unexpected experience.
I was living in Paris at the time and was new to the Siddha Yoga path. I did not know that Baba had left his body. Yet on that day, October 2, 1982, I suddenly felt Baba entering my heart and giving me the gift of recognizing him as my Guru. To this day, I often put my right hand on my heart, knowing that Baba is there, alive in my heart forever.
Such a blessed balm. I’m immensely grateful to Baba.
I was living in Paris at the time and was new to the Siddha Yoga path. I did not know that Baba had left his body. Yet on that day, October 2, 1982, I suddenly felt Baba entering my heart and giving me the gift of recognizing him as my Guru. To this day, I often put my right hand on my heart, knowing that Baba is there, alive in my heart forever.
Such a blessed balm. I’m immensely grateful to Baba.
Sutton, Canada
I remember exactly where I was standing in our house when I received the call on October 2, 1982, that Baba Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi. I was stunned. And then gratitude began to flood through me.
I had started following the Siddha Yoga path shortly after Baba returned to India in October 1976, following his Second World Tour. As I attended the Siddha Yoga Ashram near our home, my longing to meet Baba in his physical form grew and grew. After a year, my husband and I went to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Before we left, I made a vow to never take for granted being in Baba’s physical presence.
I kept my pledge. I savored each moment with Baba. I soaked in every opportunity to sit at Baba’s feet during darshan and also just to have a glimpse of his orange robes from afar.
When I heard Baba had left his body, I knew I had done everything I could to receive his blessings. I was profoundly grateful. And in that moment, I felt Baba enter my heart forever.
I had started following the Siddha Yoga path shortly after Baba returned to India in October 1976, following his Second World Tour. As I attended the Siddha Yoga Ashram near our home, my longing to meet Baba in his physical form grew and grew. After a year, my husband and I went to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Before we left, I made a vow to never take for granted being in Baba’s physical presence.
I kept my pledge. I savored each moment with Baba. I soaked in every opportunity to sit at Baba’s feet during darshan and also just to have a glimpse of his orange robes from afar.
When I heard Baba had left his body, I knew I had done everything I could to receive his blessings. I was profoundly grateful. And in that moment, I felt Baba enter my heart forever.
Michigan, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, we heard the news over the phone that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. My husband opened his wallet for some reason and the first thing he saw was a picture of Baba with the words, “Remember, I am always with you.” My husband believed this until the end of his life.
Illinois, United States
I always remember the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, as a very special, blessed, and auspicious night. My parents had a portrait of Baba in the hallway and every evening as I went upstairs to go to bed, I would look at Baba and inwardly say, “Good night.” On that evening in 1982, I saw Baba’s lips literally smile at me. I was a little sleepy, so I rubbed my eyes and looked again—and again Baba smiled. “Oh wow!” I thought, and went off to bed amazed, feeling joy and sweetness in my heart.
The next morning, the phone rang early, bringing us the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was then a teenager. Thirty-nine years later, Shri Gurumayi is my Guru, and Baba remains a constant subtle presence in my life.
The next morning, the phone rang early, bringing us the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was then a teenager. Thirty-nine years later, Shri Gurumayi is my Guru, and Baba remains a constant subtle presence in my life.
Farnborough, United Kingdom
On the day of the full moon in October 1982, I was offering seva in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Earlier, I had gone for Baba’s darshan in the Guru Chowk to celebrate my birthday. I was invited to sit up close, and I heard Baba tell me to look at his foot. As I focused on his brightly colored sock, I felt myself merging with his bliss. Just then Baba jumped up and left the hall.
When I went to sleep that night, I dreamt that Baba was tapping me with peacock feathers, filling me with shakti, and reciting to me verse 32 from Shri Guru Gita, which says, “The Guru is Brahma. The Guru is Vishnu. The Guru is Lord Shiva. The Guru is indeed Parabrahman. Salutations to Shri Guru.” I woke up with a start from this amazing dream because someone had come to tell me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. It seemed unreal until I went to the courtyard and saw so many devotees, filled with love and tears, embracing each other.
When I went to sleep that night, I dreamt that Baba was tapping me with peacock feathers, filling me with shakti, and reciting to me verse 32 from Shri Guru Gita, which says, “The Guru is Brahma. The Guru is Vishnu. The Guru is Lord Shiva. The Guru is indeed Parabrahman. Salutations to Shri Guru.” I woke up with a start from this amazing dream because someone had come to tell me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. It seemed unreal until I went to the courtyard and saw so many devotees, filled with love and tears, embracing each other.
Massachusetts, United States
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I attended an informal gathering of Siddha Yogis to chant and meditate and remember Baba. Afterwards, when we were sitting around and talking, much of the conversation was focused on missing Baba and how we’d never be with him again.
After just a few minutes, I realized that Baba was still in my heart, exactly the same as the day that I had received shaktipat. I started to rejoice because I would never need to go anywhere again to find him—I just needed to look within to be with him!
After just a few minutes, I realized that Baba was still in my heart, exactly the same as the day that I had received shaktipat. I started to rejoice because I would never need to go anywhere again to find him—I just needed to look within to be with him!
Utah, United States
On a glorious fall day in October, 1982, I attended the weekly recitation of Shri Guru Gita at the Siddha Yoga meditation center in Cambridge. Afterwards, we all sat and talked about Baba and our sadhana for a long time. Everyone commented on how joyful and full of shakti this satsang was.
It was only later that day that I learned from a friend that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Still in shock, I decided to go to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I arrived a few weeks later. Sitting there in darshan with Gurumayi, I felt Baba had, in his great compassion, put us into her care, and my sorrow was eased. Since then, I have been fully taken care of in every way, and I know my Baba has never left my side.
It was only later that day that I learned from a friend that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Still in shock, I decided to go to Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I arrived a few weeks later. Sitting there in darshan with Gurumayi, I felt Baba had, in his great compassion, put us into her care, and my sorrow was eased. Since then, I have been fully taken care of in every way, and I know my Baba has never left my side.
Sandgate, Australia
On the morning of October 2, 1982, I was offering seva at Shree Muktananda Ashram. It was a beautiful autumn day. After lunch, I went back to my room to rest. Sometime after 1 p.m., I had an extremely sharp pain in my heart. I even thought, “This must be what a heart attack feels like!”
After my rest, I returned to the Ashram to resume offering seva, and saw someone in the lobby weeping. He said to go to the meditation hall to chant—because Baba had left his body! Later, when I computed the time difference between New York and India, I realized that the time when I felt the pain in my heart was very close to the time it had been in India when Baba took mahasamadhi.
I “knew” Baba had let me know—directly in my heart—and he has never left there.
After my rest, I returned to the Ashram to resume offering seva, and saw someone in the lobby weeping. He said to go to the meditation hall to chant—because Baba had left his body! Later, when I computed the time difference between New York and India, I realized that the time when I felt the pain in my heart was very close to the time it had been in India when Baba took mahasamadhi.
I “knew” Baba had let me know—directly in my heart—and he has never left there.
Maine, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was in Gurudev Siddha Peeth when Baba took mahasamadhi. As Gurumayi addressed everyone afterwards, she looked at me with great love, and I felt a bolt of energy enter into my chest. I rocked back a bit, and my heart melted. As I stood there suffused with energy, these words arose within me: “It’s okay, I’m okay. Baba has left but it’s all okay. We are all okay.” I felt totally protected; I felt we all were under his protection.
Two days later as I walked into the courtyard, my gaze turned toward Baba’s seat. I stopped dead in my tracks, and my jaw dropped. There was Baba walking through the courtyard towards his house. He had his back to me, but there was no mistaking his form. As he reached his seat and turned, I saw that it was Gurumayi. I spoke to him inwardly, “You haven’t gone anywhere, have you?”
Baba is still with me, with us all, and I still see him from time to time.
Two days later as I walked into the courtyard, my gaze turned toward Baba’s seat. I stopped dead in my tracks, and my jaw dropped. There was Baba walking through the courtyard towards his house. He had his back to me, but there was no mistaking his form. As he reached his seat and turned, I saw that it was Gurumayi. I spoke to him inwardly, “You haven’t gone anywhere, have you?”
Baba is still with me, with us all, and I still see him from time to time.
Busselton, Australia
On October 3, 1982, we had our regular satsang at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. We had not yet heard about Baba’s mahasamadhi, but I noticed I didn’t feel as much joy during satsang as I usually did. After the satsang, a colleague told us that the news of Baba’s passing had been broadcast on All India Radio at about 5:30 p.m. We departed for Ganeshpuri immediately and reached the Ashram at about 7:00 a.m.
Upon entering Gurudev Siddha Peeth, I felt that the entire Ashram was in a meditative state. The whole environment was filled with divine vibrations, and I felt I was experiencing the shakti in each and every particle. The procession of Baba to Bade Baba’s Samadhi Shrine in Ganeshpuri and all the burial rituals were memorable. To this day I experience Baba’s shakti in his Samadhi Shrine. I am so grateful to Baba for guiding me on the path of the highest attainment for a human being.
Upon entering Gurudev Siddha Peeth, I felt that the entire Ashram was in a meditative state. The whole environment was filled with divine vibrations, and I felt I was experiencing the shakti in each and every particle. The procession of Baba to Bade Baba’s Samadhi Shrine in Ganeshpuri and all the burial rituals were memorable. To this day I experience Baba’s shakti in his Samadhi Shrine. I am so grateful to Baba for guiding me on the path of the highest attainment for a human being.
Ganeshpuri, India
Two years into my sadhana, I was preparing to host the weekly recitation of Shri Guru Gita in my home when one of the devotees arrived and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
At that time, I knew that Siddha Yoga was my path, but I had limited knowledge and understanding of what it meant to have a Guru in my life. Yet, in that moment, I experienced the most devastating sense of loss.
As we recited the Shri Guru Gita text, a feeling of emptiness opened up inside me. This emptiness was so vast! It was as if I had lost my mother, my father, my brother, my spouse, my best friend, and more. Then the space of emptiness began to fill with the most expansive, all-pervasive love—a love that had no beginning or end. I knew, without doubt, that Baba could never be lost to me. In his passing, his presence was forever accessible in the ocean of love that I was experiencing in my own being.
At that time, I knew that Siddha Yoga was my path, but I had limited knowledge and understanding of what it meant to have a Guru in my life. Yet, in that moment, I experienced the most devastating sense of loss.
As we recited the Shri Guru Gita text, a feeling of emptiness opened up inside me. This emptiness was so vast! It was as if I had lost my mother, my father, my brother, my spouse, my best friend, and more. Then the space of emptiness began to fill with the most expansive, all-pervasive love—a love that had no beginning or end. I knew, without doubt, that Baba could never be lost to me. In his passing, his presence was forever accessible in the ocean of love that I was experiencing in my own being.
West Molesey, United Kingdom
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I was offering guruseva at Shree Muktananda Ashram. That evening, as I sat outside alone, I saw how extraordinarily large and bright the moon appeared that evening. As I sat there gazing at the moon, I started to experience wave after wave of an incredible, unique, loving shakti come over my being. They were like gentle ocean waves breaking on the beach, each carrying the sweetest, most loving energy. It felt like pure love, and I knew without a doubt it was Baba. This experience put me in a state of deep devotion and love for Baba that kept getting stronger.
Eventually, I returned to the Ashram—where everyone I saw looked very different. The first person I asked about this replied, “Haven’t you heard? Baba has just taken mahasamadhi!” Surprisingly, the news didn’t shake me at all. I was still completely enveloped by those waves of loving shakti. This experience of Baba’s love stayed with me for quite some time, assuring me that Baba was still with me.
Eventually, I returned to the Ashram—where everyone I saw looked very different. The first person I asked about this replied, “Haven’t you heard? Baba has just taken mahasamadhi!” Surprisingly, the news didn’t shake me at all. I was still completely enveloped by those waves of loving shakti. This experience of Baba’s love stayed with me for quite some time, assuring me that Baba was still with me.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I had been at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Paris (in Saint-Ouen) for a satsang. Just when I came home, I received a phone call from the Ashram manager. He told me Baba had left his body and informed me a chant had begun at the Ashram. My mind was blank, and I just returned to the Ashram.
As I recall, the chant did not stop for one month as a chant was held nearly every day in the different Siddha Yoga meditation centers in Paris. I was not feeling sad because I was feeling Baba’s presence in the chant. It helped me to get through this time.
Since then, my life and sadhana have continued, but Baba has always been in my heart. I am very grateful to Baba for giving me shaktipat. I am very grateful to Gurumayi for her guidance and protection since this time.
As I recall, the chant did not stop for one month as a chant was held nearly every day in the different Siddha Yoga meditation centers in Paris. I was not feeling sad because I was feeling Baba’s presence in the chant. It helped me to get through this time.
Since then, my life and sadhana have continued, but Baba has always been in my heart. I am very grateful to Baba for giving me shaktipat. I am very grateful to Gurumayi for her guidance and protection since this time.
Noisiel, France
I met Baba in Oakland in 1978 and soon after was fortunate to join his Third World Tour. For the next several years, I listened to Baba speak very beautifully about the Self, but I never felt that I experienced the Self or deeply understood what Baba was talking about.
Then, on the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, when Baba took mahasamadhi, I was present in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, where I’d been offering seva. Early the very next morning, Gurumayi spoke to all of us who were present in the Ashram. I heard her say that Baba had asked her to tell us that he had not left us, that instead he had entered each of our hearts forever. I immediately felt my heart fill with a most beautiful, scintillating energy and sweet love. In that moment, I knew this energy was Baba and my own inner Self.
This experience has never left me. Thank you, dear Baba.
Then, on the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, when Baba took mahasamadhi, I was present in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, where I’d been offering seva. Early the very next morning, Gurumayi spoke to all of us who were present in the Ashram. I heard her say that Baba had asked her to tell us that he had not left us, that instead he had entered each of our hearts forever. I immediately felt my heart fill with a most beautiful, scintillating energy and sweet love. In that moment, I knew this energy was Baba and my own inner Self.
This experience has never left me. Thank you, dear Baba.
California, United States
A few weeks after Baba’s mahasamadhi, my son, who happens to be autistic, took my hand and walked me to a photo of Gurumayi hanging in his room. He pointed and said, “Baba!” I explained to him, “No, that is not Baba, that is Gurumayi.” This routine continued for two years, with me patiently trying to explain to him who was who.
Then one day, as usual, he pointed at Gurumayi and said, “Baba!” Suddenly the veil lifted. “Yes!,” I exclaimed with a tear in my eye, “That is Baba!” Satisfied that I finally understood, he never mentioned this again.
Then one day, as usual, he pointed at Gurumayi and said, “Baba!” Suddenly the veil lifted. “Yes!,” I exclaimed with a tear in my eye, “That is Baba!” Satisfied that I finally understood, he never mentioned this again.
California, United States
When I got the call with the news of Baba’s mahasamadhi, my world suddenly changed. I felt Baba had always been there for me. As the bhajan Gurudeva Hamara Pyara states, my Guru was the support of my life. “Now what will I do?” I wondered. I felt alone.
Then I heard a voice inside: “You are a man now. You will know what to do.” I felt the strength of this affirmation enter me, and I knew that Baba had given me what I needed.
Then I heard a voice inside: “You are a man now. You will know what to do.” I felt the strength of this affirmation enter me, and I knew that Baba had given me what I needed.
California, United States
In October 1982, I was living in Texas. The night before Baba took mahasamadhi, I was missing him and longing to be with him. I held his hat that he had given me against my heart all night. When we heard the news the next day, I felt so much sadness. I went to the meditation hall to chant and remained there for two days. After two days, someone handed me a candy. It was the exact same kind that Baba had given me at my last darshan with him. It felt like Baba was giving it to me and also telling me it was time to start resuming my normal life again.
Florida, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was offering seva in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I had never previously had to ask myself, “What is death?” Yet that question was front and center in my mind when I approached Baba in his room to receive his final darshan. When I saw him, the awareness, “He is not dead—he is alive!” arose in my mind.
To my astonishment, when I came out of his room, I began hearing Baba speak to me lovingly within my heart. And, as I walked through the gardens of Gurudev Siddha Peeth, it was evident to me that Baba is everywhere and so will inhabit his shrine and my heart forever.
To my astonishment, when I came out of his room, I began hearing Baba speak to me lovingly within my heart. And, as I walked through the gardens of Gurudev Siddha Peeth, it was evident to me that Baba is everywhere and so will inhabit his shrine and my heart forever.
Rodez, France
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I awoke early in the morning and immediately began thinking about going to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Oakland to recite Shri Guru Gita. My children were away at the time, visiting a relative. Even though I felt this magnetic pull toward the Ashram, I decided not to leave my house so early. Instead I began to do some home tasks, in anticipation of my children’s return the next day.
As the day progressed, a friend called to inform me that Swami Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi. I felt so fortunate I could go immediately to the Ashram and join the chant in Baba’s honor that would continue for many days.
From that day to this, Baba has been with me in my dreams, upon my puja, whenever I read his books or take Siddha Yoga courses. He has been guiding me in my roles as a mom and grandmother. Because of Baba’s guidance, I am able to function in this world and perform my duties with tranquility and strength.
As the day progressed, a friend called to inform me that Swami Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi. I felt so fortunate I could go immediately to the Ashram and join the chant in Baba’s honor that would continue for many days.
From that day to this, Baba has been with me in my dreams, upon my puja, whenever I read his books or take Siddha Yoga courses. He has been guiding me in my roles as a mom and grandmother. Because of Baba’s guidance, I am able to function in this world and perform my duties with tranquility and strength.
California, United States
Every time I look up in the sky on a full-moon night, it reminds me of the night Baba took mahasamadhi in 1982. That night I was gazing at the full moon before going to sleep in my room at Gurudev Siddha Peeth. In the middle of the night, someone knocked at my door, saying “Baba has taken mahasamadhi! Come to his room for darshan.”
I believe that Baba knew the exact day and time that he would take mahasamadhi, since the night before he had called a few of us office sevites together to tell us we should all work together. I still remember the ceremonies held at that time. Even though it’s been thirty years since I left Gurudev Siddha Peeth, my heart remains with my Guru.
I believe that Baba knew the exact day and time that he would take mahasamadhi, since the night before he had called a few of us office sevites together to tell us we should all work together. I still remember the ceremonies held at that time. Even though it’s been thirty years since I left Gurudev Siddha Peeth, my heart remains with my Guru.
New York, United States
On October 2, 1982, the day of the full moon, while living in Oakland with my family, I received a call from a friend telling me Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was stunned and started crying. I had received so much from Baba, I knew I would be OK. But my young son, who has a severe disability, had loved Baba and felt close to him. I asked my husband, “What about him?”
Then I remembered that the night before, I’d dreamt about being in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. In one scene, I was looking out the window onto the courtyard, where Gurumayi was walking by. She turned and asked, “How is he doing?” referring to my son. I was surprised that she would be asking—just like Baba would have done.
I answered something like, “So-so.” Gurumayi looked at me and said, “Don’t worry. He is in my care now.” I thought it odd she would say that, because it was Baba who always took care of him. Well, that next afternoon when I remembered the dream, I understood. It was a tremendous comfort.
Then I remembered that the night before, I’d dreamt about being in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. In one scene, I was looking out the window onto the courtyard, where Gurumayi was walking by. She turned and asked, “How is he doing?” referring to my son. I was surprised that she would be asking—just like Baba would have done.
I answered something like, “So-so.” Gurumayi looked at me and said, “Don’t worry. He is in my care now.” I thought it odd she would say that, because it was Baba who always took care of him. Well, that next afternoon when I remembered the dream, I understood. It was a tremendous comfort.
California, United States
In the early morning hours of the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I received a call from the Swami in residence at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan, letting me know that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Initially I felt a sense of loss but as time progressed, my mind was drawn to being focused continually on Baba and that gave me an inner sense of peace and love.
When I heard that there would be a month-long chant at the Ashram, I made sure to be there every evening even though I lived more than forty-five minutes away. As we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya , I knew it was the most exquisite chant!
That experience will forever be in my heart and mind. Ever since that year, every October I feel that same focus on Baba’s light, bringing me the greatest sense of peace and love.
When I heard that there would be a month-long chant at the Ashram, I made sure to be there every evening even though I lived more than forty-five minutes away. As we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya , I knew it was the most exquisite chant!
That experience will forever be in my heart and mind. Ever since that year, every October I feel that same focus on Baba’s light, bringing me the greatest sense of peace and love.
Florida, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was leading a group of university students on an all-night spiritual pilgrimage through forests and fields to our final destination—a local monastery. We walked from late evening until we arrived at the monastery at 6 a.m. To our delight, we saw many shooting stars in the sky in the early hours of the morning as we walked silently in prayer.
I learned of Baba’s passing when I returned home later that day. All of my family members, whether or not they were Siddha Yoga students, were weeping. In the midst of my deep grief I also felt profound gratitude that I had been awake, out in nature, and immersed in prayer during the sacred time of Baba’s great merging.
I experienced this night as a blessed gift from Baba, and I believe the shooting stars we saw were to celebrate and honor Baba’s magnificent, holy life!
I learned of Baba’s passing when I returned home later that day. All of my family members, whether or not they were Siddha Yoga students, were weeping. In the midst of my deep grief I also felt profound gratitude that I had been awake, out in nature, and immersed in prayer during the sacred time of Baba’s great merging.
I experienced this night as a blessed gift from Baba, and I believe the shooting stars we saw were to celebrate and honor Baba’s magnificent, holy life!
New York, United States
A few days after Baba took mahasamadhi, I entered his Samadhi Shrine. I sat as close as possible to the mound of earth where Baba was buried. I felt quite sad and, at the same time, happy to be there.
After a moment I saw, right in front of me, a golden leg! Slowly I looked up. Baba was sitting on a chair, right in front of me, one knee bent high over the other in a position he frequently took.
I was stunned. I spoke to him in a very familiar way, saying, “But Baba, you are dead!” Baba looked at me and held out his arm, pointing at me and saying my name. He was laughing so hard that his whole arm was shaking. His whole being radiated light and intense joy.
I protested: “There’s nothing to laugh about! You’ve left me all alone again!”
Baba continued to laugh with such tenderness and compassion. And I understood that he was truly with me and with all his disciples.
After a moment I saw, right in front of me, a golden leg! Slowly I looked up. Baba was sitting on a chair, right in front of me, one knee bent high over the other in a position he frequently took.
I was stunned. I spoke to him in a very familiar way, saying, “But Baba, you are dead!” Baba looked at me and held out his arm, pointing at me and saying my name. He was laughing so hard that his whole arm was shaking. His whole being radiated light and intense joy.
I protested: “There’s nothing to laugh about! You’ve left me all alone again!”
Baba continued to laugh with such tenderness and compassion. And I understood that he was truly with me and with all his disciples.
Callac de Bretagne, France
In 1982 I was living in Shree Muktananda Ashram. On the afternoon of October 2, we were summoned to the hall that held Bhagavan Nityananda’s murti, and told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Everyone was stunned. Chanting began—Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya, in the Jhinjhoti raga—and continued nonstop for two weeks. At some point, the words changed to Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. For the first time ever, we chanted Baba’s name alone.
Chanting permeated the Ashram. The shakti was immense. Baba’s apartment was opened, and residents meditated there day and night. I sat in one of the rooms, filled with simultaneous feelings of overwhelming grief and supreme ecstasy.
As I processed the reality of Baba’s departure, Gurumayi’s words of consolation were transmitted continually from Gurudev Siddha Peeth. The power and compassion in her words reassured me that Baba had left us in the care of a being whom I could trust to guide me for the remainder of my journey on this earth.
Chanting permeated the Ashram. The shakti was immense. Baba’s apartment was opened, and residents meditated there day and night. I sat in one of the rooms, filled with simultaneous feelings of overwhelming grief and supreme ecstasy.
As I processed the reality of Baba’s departure, Gurumayi’s words of consolation were transmitted continually from Gurudev Siddha Peeth. The power and compassion in her words reassured me that Baba had left us in the care of a being whom I could trust to guide me for the remainder of my journey on this earth.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was in Gurudev Siddha Peeth when Baba took mahasamadhi. During that night, someone came to the dorm I was staying in and announced that everyone should go to the Temple to chant, because Baba had become ill.
When a few of us arrived at the Temple, it was already full. So we went to the courtyard outside Baba’s house to chant. Shortly thereafter a man came out of Baba’s house. I asked him what was going on. He replied, “Baba has taken mahasamadhi!” Shocked, I sat down and began to cry.
Then suddenly, a woman opened the door to Baba’s house and waved at us to come inside. I sat down in front of Baba’s body; his eyes were slightly open and I felt he was alive. I began hearing a voice inside me, saying over and over, “The Guru is not the body. The Guru is not the body.”
I felt so blessed to have had this final darshan and teaching from Baba.
When a few of us arrived at the Temple, it was already full. So we went to the courtyard outside Baba’s house to chant. Shortly thereafter a man came out of Baba’s house. I asked him what was going on. He replied, “Baba has taken mahasamadhi!” Shocked, I sat down and began to cry.
Then suddenly, a woman opened the door to Baba’s house and waved at us to come inside. I sat down in front of Baba’s body; his eyes were slightly open and I felt he was alive. I began hearing a voice inside me, saying over and over, “The Guru is not the body. The Guru is not the body.”
I felt so blessed to have had this final darshan and teaching from Baba.
Florida, United States
A week before Baba’s mahasamadhi, I dreamt I was in a hall with a grand piano. Baba comes and sits on the bench. I hear the piano being played and, wordlessly, the music speaks to my heart. Through the notes, Baba tells me he is leaving. Weeping, I tell him I cannot live without him. The playing continues and once again, through the music, Baba tells me I’ll always find him in music.
A week later, I was in the meditation hall at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Barcelona rehearsing a play about Jnaneshvar Maharaj—when a Swami entered and told us Baba had taken mahasamadhi. When I heard, I felt as if I was floating in a vast, timeless space—separated from everything.
The only thing that made sense to me was to take the support of chanting the mantra. Going to the harmonium, I began playing Om Namah Shivaya. Slowly, everyone in the hall joined in. Later we learned that Siddha Yoga Ashrams and meditation centers around the world were chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya uninterruptedly.
I was so grateful that Baba had come to tell me through the dream that I could always be with him through chanting.
A week later, I was in the meditation hall at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Barcelona rehearsing a play about Jnaneshvar Maharaj—when a Swami entered and told us Baba had taken mahasamadhi. When I heard, I felt as if I was floating in a vast, timeless space—separated from everything.
The only thing that made sense to me was to take the support of chanting the mantra. Going to the harmonium, I began playing Om Namah Shivaya. Slowly, everyone in the hall joined in. Later we learned that Siddha Yoga Ashrams and meditation centers around the world were chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya uninterruptedly.
I was so grateful that Baba had come to tell me through the dream that I could always be with him through chanting.
New York, United States
In 1982 I was offering seva in the cowshed at Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Baba would visit every morning and evening to feed and brush the cows. On his last evening before taking mahasamadhi, Baba came early; he fed some of the cows and asked after the others.
On that full-moon night of October 2, 1982, a friend came and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was stunned, but I soon got up and went to the cowshed. While someone else was milking the cows, I cleaned in silence. When we were finished, I walked out into the night to bring the milk to the kitchen. I looked up at the bright full moon and began to cry. When I neared the kitchen, the crying stopped and I went inside to empty the milk cans. I started back toward the cowshed and the crying started again. When I reached the cowshed, the crying stopped, and I sensed it was done, that there would be no more need to cry.
I felt buoyant, alive, and happy. I felt Baba envelop me with his loving presence.
On that full-moon night of October 2, 1982, a friend came and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was stunned, but I soon got up and went to the cowshed. While someone else was milking the cows, I cleaned in silence. When we were finished, I walked out into the night to bring the milk to the kitchen. I looked up at the bright full moon and began to cry. When I neared the kitchen, the crying stopped and I went inside to empty the milk cans. I started back toward the cowshed and the crying started again. When I reached the cowshed, the crying stopped, and I sensed it was done, that there would be no more need to cry.
I felt buoyant, alive, and happy. I felt Baba envelop me with his loving presence.
Perth, Australia
What an unforgettable day. I received a phone call with the message that Baba had taken mahasamadhi and that we were gathering at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center to chant. My mind became still as I took in this information; my mind stayed still as I prepared to depart for the center, and then arrived there. The very air of the center was still, the shakti a palpable force. The people at the center greeted each other with a silent connection of love and acknowledgement.
As we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, I became lost in the syllables, and a profound feeling of Baba’s presence and love expanded more and more within me.
One small corner of my mind was wondering, “Why am I not crying in despair; where is the grief?”
It seemed impossible, but instead of grief, I felt so incredibly full of Baba’s love, and realized that what Baba had said would happen was true—he had left his body, but he had fully entered into the hearts of his disciples.
As we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, I became lost in the syllables, and a profound feeling of Baba’s presence and love expanded more and more within me.
One small corner of my mind was wondering, “Why am I not crying in despair; where is the grief?”
It seemed impossible, but instead of grief, I felt so incredibly full of Baba’s love, and realized that what Baba had said would happen was true—he had left his body, but he had fully entered into the hearts of his disciples.
Arizona, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, when Baba took mahasamadhi, I had been living in Gurudev Siddha Peeth since June. At first, I felt great shock and sadness. My Baba was gone and thoughts of not being with him physically were painful. How precious his divine form was to me!
Yet as the continuous chanting of his name filled the Ashram, so did the tangible feeling of his shakti. Happiness began to fill the air. We were being carried beyond our grief—being held in his love, and sensing that he was right there with us. When devotees came from near and far, I could see their grieving countenance change to calm contentment as they too became immersed in this love.
The culmination came for me when I was asked to stand watch over Baba’s body in the early hours of one morning. It was just me and Baba. At one point it seemed to me that Baba was present, hovering just above his physical form, letting me know in unspoken words, “You see, I am here. I have never left.”
Yet as the continuous chanting of his name filled the Ashram, so did the tangible feeling of his shakti. Happiness began to fill the air. We were being carried beyond our grief—being held in his love, and sensing that he was right there with us. When devotees came from near and far, I could see their grieving countenance change to calm contentment as they too became immersed in this love.
The culmination came for me when I was asked to stand watch over Baba’s body in the early hours of one morning. It was just me and Baba. At one point it seemed to me that Baba was present, hovering just above his physical form, letting me know in unspoken words, “You see, I am here. I have never left.”
Washington, United States
On October 1, 1982, I went up to a rooftop in Gurudev Siddha Peeth after Shri Guru Gita, and as the dawn was coming on, the entire Tansa Valley around the Ashram turned into the most amazing purple haze, which I had never seen before. Little did I know that this most beautiful dawn was on Baba’s last day on this earth.
During the early morning hours of October 2, someone knocked on my door and said that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I went to the meditation hall, where they were already making preparations for the burial. Later on we were all invited to Baba’s house. I sat there for a very long time, feeling total peace within myself. After several days Baba was buried in what is now his Samadhi Shrine, the former meditation hall. From sadness to jubilation is how I would describe those days. I did not feel that Baba had left; I felt a stronger presence of Baba within myself, which I experience to this very day.
During the early morning hours of October 2, someone knocked on my door and said that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I went to the meditation hall, where they were already making preparations for the burial. Later on we were all invited to Baba’s house. I sat there for a very long time, feeling total peace within myself. After several days Baba was buried in what is now his Samadhi Shrine, the former meditation hall. From sadness to jubilation is how I would describe those days. I did not feel that Baba had left; I felt a stronger presence of Baba within myself, which I experience to this very day.
New York, United States
I will never forget that day—October 2, 1982. My brother called from Shree Muktananda Ashram and told us the news. My family was together, and we just sat there, stunned at what we had just heard, not knowing what to do or how to process this information.
At that moment there was a knock at the door. I opened it, and there stood a young Indian man. He was going door-to-door selling volumes of the Vedas. My eyes were tearing up, and I told him our beloved Guru had just taken mahasamadhi. He looked at me with great compassion and asked if he could come in.
He sat down at our harmonium and started singing and playing devotional hymns to comfort us. He translated the meaning of one of the hymns, conveying that when a great being leaves his body, he is not really gone but enters into the hearts of all his devotees. How soothing and loving his words were!
I have never before or since that time heard of a door-to-door Veda salesman. This was truly a gift from Baba to help us in our mourning and to help ease our intense longing for him.
At that moment there was a knock at the door. I opened it, and there stood a young Indian man. He was going door-to-door selling volumes of the Vedas. My eyes were tearing up, and I told him our beloved Guru had just taken mahasamadhi. He looked at me with great compassion and asked if he could come in.
He sat down at our harmonium and started singing and playing devotional hymns to comfort us. He translated the meaning of one of the hymns, conveying that when a great being leaves his body, he is not really gone but enters into the hearts of all his devotees. How soothing and loving his words were!
I have never before or since that time heard of a door-to-door Veda salesman. This was truly a gift from Baba to help us in our mourning and to help ease our intense longing for him.
California, United States
In the months before Baba took mahasamadhi, he was always seen out and about the Ashram grounds interacting with the people. He was talking to managers, giving darshan, or riding in his golf cart with the children.
In the evening, Baba visited the meditation cave, blessing people who were meditating there with his shakti.
Watching Baba give of himself so fully during those last few months was awe-inspiring. It felt to me like Baba had no time to waste, like he was using whatever time he had left to give as much of himself as he could.
In the evening, Baba visited the meditation cave, blessing people who were meditating there with his shakti.
Watching Baba give of himself so fully during those last few months was awe-inspiring. It felt to me like Baba had no time to waste, like he was using whatever time he had left to give as much of himself as he could.
Texas, United States
During the fall of 1981 in the Ashram in Mexico City, I dreamt that Baba Muktananda had died. I woke up in tears and with the most incredible pain of loss I’d ever experienced. That day I decided to go to India to be with Baba. I arrived in March 1982.
On the full-moon evening of October 2, I went to the evening chant; a video was shown of Baba remembering the day Bhagavan Nityananda left his body. Baba was sitting outside his house in the dark. Returning to my room, I paused to look at the moon for a long time. I felt so full and content.
That night, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I started to cry and cry for hours as word spread of his passing and hundreds came to pay their respects. The Ashram held a month-long chant, which saved me. I realized the wondrous shakti that Baba had kindled within me was still with me, guiding me. And now, in the company of Gurumayi, I continue to grow in knowledge and maturity.
On the full-moon evening of October 2, I went to the evening chant; a video was shown of Baba remembering the day Bhagavan Nityananda left his body. Baba was sitting outside his house in the dark. Returning to my room, I paused to look at the moon for a long time. I felt so full and content.
That night, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I started to cry and cry for hours as word spread of his passing and hundreds came to pay their respects. The Ashram held a month-long chant, which saved me. I realized the wondrous shakti that Baba had kindled within me was still with me, guiding me. And now, in the company of Gurumayi, I continue to grow in knowledge and maturity.
New York, United States
The afternoon before Baba took mahasamadhi, I was astonished when darshan with Baba was announced in Guru Chowk by the loudest and most extraordinary sound of the single string opening on the sitar, broadcast in the courtyard. For me it was a mandatory summoning to darshan. As I approached Baba and stood before him—which would be for the final time—he gave me the warmest, most loving, most accepting, friendliest smile I’d ever received and the most beautiful deep sound of welcome I’d ever heard. His transmitted love was so strong, my knees softened, and I sat myself down right next to his chair. I had melted into his knowledge and love if only for that moment—until a hall monitor suggested that I move.
This experience has remained with me all these years. Whenever I have a feeling of separation or limitation, I recall that moment. The restoration I feel is extraordinary, and my gratitude for being in the presence of this great being forever renews itself.
This experience has remained with me all these years. Whenever I have a feeling of separation or limitation, I recall that moment. The restoration I feel is extraordinary, and my gratitude for being in the presence of this great being forever renews itself.
Florida, United States
In August 1982, I spent five days in Ganeshpuri, meeting Baba for the first time. I’d known nothing then about Gurus, yet in those five days I realized Baba was someone really special, who had access to knowledge and power far beyond my experience.
On the full-moon night of October 2, working in my studio in Paris, I suddenly felt an immense wave of love descending on me and filling me completely. At that moment, I felt with total certitude that Baba had installed himself in my heart—forever. I knew he was my Guru. Later, at the Siddha Yoga meditation center in Paris, I learned that on that day, Baba had left his body. What a blessing!
Today I remember the Guru’s compassion for someone who was then really ignorant of the lives and greatness of the Siddhas. Today I bow to Baba and celebrate his life, his gift, with immense gratitude. I bow to his love and his legacy that became the center of my life through Gurumayi’s presence and teachings.
On the full-moon night of October 2, working in my studio in Paris, I suddenly felt an immense wave of love descending on me and filling me completely. At that moment, I felt with total certitude that Baba had installed himself in my heart—forever. I knew he was my Guru. Later, at the Siddha Yoga meditation center in Paris, I learned that on that day, Baba had left his body. What a blessing!
Today I remember the Guru’s compassion for someone who was then really ignorant of the lives and greatness of the Siddhas. Today I bow to Baba and celebrate his life, his gift, with immense gratitude. I bow to his love and his legacy that became the center of my life through Gurumayi’s presence and teachings.
Sutton (Quebec), Canada
On the full-moon night of October 1982, I was living in the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Houston. When we received the news of his mahasamadhi, I was stunned with grief. The night before, I had been missing Baba and longing to be with him. I went into the meditation hall to chant, and could not leave it for two days, neither to sleep nor to eat. While chanting inside the hall, I felt like I was inside Baba’s body.
Then my dear sister sent me a plane ticket to India. When I arrived at Gurudev Siddha Peeth, a powerful shakti pervaded the atmosphere. The bond of love and caring among the devotees was very strong. We had lost our beloved Baba, yet we had not lost him. His presence was palpable and true, more real than the air we breathed and the sun upon our skin. Baba was with us then, as he is now—and always.
Then my dear sister sent me a plane ticket to India. When I arrived at Gurudev Siddha Peeth, a powerful shakti pervaded the atmosphere. The bond of love and caring among the devotees was very strong. We had lost our beloved Baba, yet we had not lost him. His presence was palpable and true, more real than the air we breathed and the sun upon our skin. Baba was with us then, as he is now—and always.
Florida, United States
In the fall of 1982, I had been living in Los Angeles for six months after spending nine months with Baba Muktananda in India. I was missing Baba and Ashram life intensely.
Early in the morning of the full moon of October 2, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi and so proceeded immediately to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Santa Monica, where a thirty-day chanting saptah was in progress. That month, I spent my nights offering seva and chanting in the saptah. The divine energy was palpable, turning the Ashram into paradise. Baba’s love was completely present, and he was chanting with us.
By the third week, my soul was consumed with a great longing to live a life that was fully dedicated to spiritual pursuits. So I applied for an open position on the Ashram staff. On the third anniversary of my receiving shaktipat, I was accepted for a full-time position on staff! Baba’s loving gift to me was an answer to my deepest prayer, a rare opportunity to focus on my spiritual journey and to receive Gurumayi’s guidance and darshan.
Early in the morning of the full moon of October 2, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi and so proceeded immediately to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Santa Monica, where a thirty-day chanting saptah was in progress. That month, I spent my nights offering seva and chanting in the saptah. The divine energy was palpable, turning the Ashram into paradise. Baba’s love was completely present, and he was chanting with us.
By the third week, my soul was consumed with a great longing to live a life that was fully dedicated to spiritual pursuits. So I applied for an open position on the Ashram staff. On the third anniversary of my receiving shaktipat, I was accepted for a full-time position on staff! Baba’s loving gift to me was an answer to my deepest prayer, a rare opportunity to focus on my spiritual journey and to receive Gurumayi’s guidance and darshan.
California, United States
On October 1, 1982, I arrived home from work and parked my car in the driveway. When I returned to it later that evening to run an errand, I was immediately stunned and fixated by the rising moon. It was the biggest, brightest, most enchanting full moon I’d ever seen, so much so that I got down on my knees and offered pranam.
Early the next morning, October 2, I heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Then I knew why that moon was so significant. Nature was acknowledging this extraordinary event—the merging of a great being with universal Consciousness.
I am so grateful to Baba for his glorious life and the priceless gift of shaktipat, which he gave so freely and generously.
Early the next morning, October 2, I heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Then I knew why that moon was so significant. Nature was acknowledging this extraordinary event—the merging of a great being with universal Consciousness.
I am so grateful to Baba for his glorious life and the priceless gift of shaktipat, which he gave so freely and generously.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, we were holding the weekly satsang at my parents’ house. During the chant I heard a sound of something falling; when I opened my eyes, I saw that a photo of Baba had dropped from the wall to the ground. Someone picked it up and placed it on the back puja. We then enjoyed a most ecstatic chant and meditation.
In those days, after meditation we used to share our experiences during the satsang. My dad shared that during meditation, he had heard the rain starting outside, and as each raindrop fell, he heard the sound of Om Namah Shivaya. Amazed, I realized that this was a most special and unusual satsang.
Later that evening, the Center’s coordinator rang and told us that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Initially, I was overcome with sadness. But as I reflected further, I realized that Baba had taken mahasamadhi around the time of that satsang. We had all felt his presence in such a powerful way, and I felt great gratitude toward Baba for his inexhaustible grace.
In those days, after meditation we used to share our experiences during the satsang. My dad shared that during meditation, he had heard the rain starting outside, and as each raindrop fell, he heard the sound of Om Namah Shivaya. Amazed, I realized that this was a most special and unusual satsang.
Later that evening, the Center’s coordinator rang and told us that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Initially, I was overcome with sadness. But as I reflected further, I realized that Baba had taken mahasamadhi around the time of that satsang. We had all felt his presence in such a powerful way, and I felt great gratitude toward Baba for his inexhaustible grace.
London, United Kingdom
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was asleep dreaming—sweet dreams. Then a golden triangle arose in my vision. Within the triangle were beautiful golden padukas—the Guru’s sandals.
As I marveled at this vision, my phone began to ring. Reluctantly, I awoke from my dream and received the call. My friend told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi some hours before in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I was deeply moved and felt that Baba’s parting gift to me was to install himself in my being as he left, as symbolized by this exquisite vision.
I know Baba is with us always.
As I marveled at this vision, my phone began to ring. Reluctantly, I awoke from my dream and received the call. My friend told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi some hours before in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I was deeply moved and felt that Baba’s parting gift to me was to install himself in my being as he left, as symbolized by this exquisite vision.
I know Baba is with us always.
New York, United States
As a newcomer to the Siddha Yoga path, I was offering seva in Gurudev Siddha Peeth in 1982. A few days before Baba took mahasamadhi, I started having darshan of his face whenever I closed my eyes. During Baba’s very last physical darshan with us on that Saturday afternoon, I sat in the back of the hall and closed my eyes and saw him in my inner vision. I was completely content being with him in this way.
I was offering seva on the video crew at the time, and later that night after Baba had taken mahasamadhi, my role was to get video equipment any time it was needed. As I ran to do this, an ecstasy filled me; it was incredible. Then my mind kicked in, and I said to myself, “Wait, you’re supposed to be sad. Baba has just left his body!” Instead, instantaneously I had the understanding that Baba was not his body. He was with me. His love and presence were within me.
I was offering seva on the video crew at the time, and later that night after Baba had taken mahasamadhi, my role was to get video equipment any time it was needed. As I ran to do this, an ecstasy filled me; it was incredible. Then my mind kicked in, and I said to myself, “Wait, you’re supposed to be sad. Baba has just left his body!” Instead, instantaneously I had the understanding that Baba was not his body. He was with me. His love and presence were within me.
California, United States
On the full-moon evening of October 2, 1982, I was walking along the road from my home to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Melbourne to offer seva. I looked up at the moon. It was incredibly beautiful. I began to pray to the moon, something I’d never done before—or since. I prayed, “O Moon, in a few hours’ time you will be shining down on the courtyard in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. Please take care of my Baba.”
Afterwards I wondered at this synchronicity. The next morning, at the end of Shri Guru Gita, we were told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Then we were invited to begin chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. I hugged the tamboura I had been playing, and next the harmonium player asked me to take over at the harmonium. I had no idea how long I would be there playing, but it didn’t matter. I felt so blessed to be able to serve Baba and his devotees at such an auspicious time.
The depth of joy and sweetness I experienced during the fourteen-day saptah was extraordinary. I felt no sadness, only a beautiful, sweet bliss that kept on deepening and transforming, holding me in its loving embrace.
Afterwards I wondered at this synchronicity. The next morning, at the end of Shri Guru Gita, we were told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Then we were invited to begin chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. I hugged the tamboura I had been playing, and next the harmonium player asked me to take over at the harmonium. I had no idea how long I would be there playing, but it didn’t matter. I felt so blessed to be able to serve Baba and his devotees at such an auspicious time.
The depth of joy and sweetness I experienced during the fourteen-day saptah was extraordinary. I felt no sadness, only a beautiful, sweet bliss that kept on deepening and transforming, holding me in its loving embrace.
Auckland, New Zealand
I was living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in late August 1982 when one day, as I was out walking, I began to hear the mantra Om Namah Shivaya very clearly inside. At that time, I was trying to make a major life decision. I decided to live for a while in the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Boston.
Less than a week after I arrived at the Ashram, we heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I felt it was Baba who had called me to the Ashram. I immersed my mind in chanting and meditation. I began to feel so close to Baba. I felt lifetimes of grief and pain washing from my soul while chanting. I stayed almost six months.
I feel Baba has been guiding my life ever since. I feel his love for me!
Less than a week after I arrived at the Ashram, we heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I felt it was Baba who had called me to the Ashram. I immersed my mind in chanting and meditation. I began to feel so close to Baba. I felt lifetimes of grief and pain washing from my soul while chanting. I stayed almost six months.
I feel Baba has been guiding my life ever since. I feel his love for me!
Massachusetts, United States
On the day of the full moon of October 2, 1982, it was a spectacular fall day on my college campus. The sun was streaming through the trees, and the campus was almost empty because everyone else was at a football game. A friend and I were sitting on the lawn, enjoying the beauty and peace of the day, and I was joyously telling her all about Baba. A couple of students approached us. I welcomed them to sit with us and began telling them about Baba too!
After speaking so much about Baba that day, I decided to attend satsang that night at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. When I arrived, they were already chanting. I asked if I was late; the host responded, “Oh, didn’t you hear? Baba left his body today.”
I felt that Baba himself had drawn me there that night, since normally I didn’t attend satsang on that day of the week. I was deeply grateful that Baba’s love took care of me in this way.
After speaking so much about Baba that day, I decided to attend satsang that night at the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. When I arrived, they were already chanting. I asked if I was late; the host responded, “Oh, didn’t you hear? Baba left his body today.”
I felt that Baba himself had drawn me there that night, since normally I didn’t attend satsang on that day of the week. I was deeply grateful that Baba’s love took care of me in this way.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was at a party. I went out on the balcony and saw the beautiful full moon. Within myself, I felt such a longing to be with Baba in his Ashram in India that tears started flowing. I left the party and went home.
That night I dreamed of being in Gurudev Siddha Peeth with Baba. In the dream we embraced. Then I woke up feeling full of love.
In the morning the telephone rang. Someone told me Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Immediately I remembered my dream, and understood that Baba’s love would be so much stronger now.
That night I dreamed of being in Gurudev Siddha Peeth with Baba. In the dream we embraced. Then I woke up feeling full of love.
In the morning the telephone rang. Someone told me Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Immediately I remembered my dream, and understood that Baba’s love would be so much stronger now.
Fellen, Germany
On the day of the full moon on October 2, 1982, I received a call telling me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. The amazing thing is that instead of feeling sorrow, I felt so much joy that all I could do was get up and dance. I started to twirl around and I just couldn’t stop. I hesitated to go outside because I knew I wouldn’t be able to contain this joy and I would end up dancing in the streets! So I stayed inside and danced all day in the bliss of Baba’s incredible joy.
I felt Baba’s presence so powerfully!
I felt Baba’s presence so powerfully!
Florida, United States
When I heard the news of Baba’s mahasamadhi, I felt stricken with sorrow. I immediately drove to the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Boston, feeling that the only way I could find my equilibrium would be through being in satsang and chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. We chanted there for a week in the very powerful shakti of the Ashram.
I had met Baba only six years previously and believed that it was the physical form of the Guru that gave me the connection to my own heart. But during that week of chanting, I began to understand that maybe there was something else to learn.
Through many tears and with Baba’s grace and love, I learned that although Baba had left his body, the Self never dies. And I carry Baba’s presence inside my heart always.
I had met Baba only six years previously and believed that it was the physical form of the Guru that gave me the connection to my own heart. But during that week of chanting, I began to understand that maybe there was something else to learn.
Through many tears and with Baba’s grace and love, I learned that although Baba had left his body, the Self never dies. And I carry Baba’s presence inside my heart always.
Massachusetts, United States
On the day of the full moon of October 2, 1982, I was invited to lunch at the home of a dear friend, a Siddha Yogi, to inaugurate her new flat. As there was no furniture yet, we sat on the floor and had a “picnic.” My friend is a great cook and as she presented each dish, she would say, “This is how Baba likes this cooked” or “This is how Baba cooks bindhi bhaji.”
I replied, “I believe you’ve cooked this lunch for Baba, and I am very happy to be eating it on his behalf.”
That evening, we heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi during the night. It seemed to us that we had attended our lunchtime feast in Baba’s honor to celebrate the culmination and goal of all of his lifetimes: Baba’s merging with the Absolute. Yet Baba didn’t “leave this world.” Indeed, he has been guiding my life ever since, often through words that resonate in my mind as I wake from sleep or emerge from meditation.
I replied, “I believe you’ve cooked this lunch for Baba, and I am very happy to be eating it on his behalf.”
That evening, we heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi during the night. It seemed to us that we had attended our lunchtime feast in Baba’s honor to celebrate the culmination and goal of all of his lifetimes: Baba’s merging with the Absolute. Yet Baba didn’t “leave this world.” Indeed, he has been guiding my life ever since, often through words that resonate in my mind as I wake from sleep or emerge from meditation.
Littlehampton, United Kingdom
In 1982 I was still new to the Siddha Yoga path, reading all I could and coming to the local Siddha Yoga meditation center for chants. I had never met Baba in person but I had received shaktipat initiation from the mantra when one of the Siddha Yoga Swamis gave a special program in our area.
On the day Baba Muktananda took mahasamadhi, I was sitting in my meditation room. I was trying to meditate, but all I could do was cry and bow in front of Baba’s picture. It was all very spontaneous. It wasn’t until I arrived at the meditation center that evening for the chant that I found out Baba had left his body. Yet something inside of me knew this earlier in the day as I sat in my meditation room.
On the day Baba Muktananda took mahasamadhi, I was sitting in my meditation room. I was trying to meditate, but all I could do was cry and bow in front of Baba’s picture. It was all very spontaneous. It wasn’t until I arrived at the meditation center that evening for the chant that I found out Baba had left his body. Yet something inside of me knew this earlier in the day as I sat in my meditation room.
Georgia, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was living in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. That afternoon we had had silent darshan in the courtyard, Guru Chowk, and later watched a video before going to sleep. Just after 11 p.m., something breezed by me, causing me to sit bolt upright, wide awake in my bed. I could not go back to sleep. Later, in the early morning hours, I walked into the Bhagavan Nityananda Temple with another musician and pulled the harmonium out, since I offered music seva there. We decided to chant.
I started playing Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, and we began to chant inside the Temple. Later the chant moved into Guru Chowk and became more and more ecstatic over the following days. That chant turned into a month-long saptah as thousands of people came to the Ashram for one last darshan with Baba.
In my recollection, that chant carried many of us on a wave of Baba’s love and anchored us inside our hearts—which Baba had never left, and never will. As we navigated the first month without our beloved Baba’s beautiful form, his shakti grew more powerful and present than ever for me, and I knew he had not gone anywhere after all.
I started playing Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya, and we began to chant inside the Temple. Later the chant moved into Guru Chowk and became more and more ecstatic over the following days. That chant turned into a month-long saptah as thousands of people came to the Ashram for one last darshan with Baba.
In my recollection, that chant carried many of us on a wave of Baba’s love and anchored us inside our hearts—which Baba had never left, and never will. As we navigated the first month without our beloved Baba’s beautiful form, his shakti grew more powerful and present than ever for me, and I knew he had not gone anywhere after all.
California, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, when Baba took mahasamadhi, I was living in the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Sydney. I was deeply grieved at the news because I thought I had lost my Guru.
We had been chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya during each day. On the third night, I woke up at 3 a.m. All was still and everyone was asleep. Suddenly, my heart began to pound. I thought, “Baba’s here!” The vibration of shakti in my body was so strong.
Then I heard Baba’s voice. I could feel it literally vibrating in my heart. He was speaking in Hindi. I recognized the phrase as the greeting he always began his talk with, as Gurumayi does today: “I welcome you all with all my heart.” These words repeated for a while and then ended. I knew I had just had Baba’s darshan.
Years later, I came to understand that this experience of feeling Baba’s shakti and hearing his voice was the Guru’s subtle form entering my heart. As the scriptures teach, I could not possibly lose my Guru.
We had been chanting Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya during each day. On the third night, I woke up at 3 a.m. All was still and everyone was asleep. Suddenly, my heart began to pound. I thought, “Baba’s here!” The vibration of shakti in my body was so strong.
Then I heard Baba’s voice. I could feel it literally vibrating in my heart. He was speaking in Hindi. I recognized the phrase as the greeting he always began his talk with, as Gurumayi does today: “I welcome you all with all my heart.” These words repeated for a while and then ended. I knew I had just had Baba’s darshan.
Years later, I came to understand that this experience of feeling Baba’s shakti and hearing his voice was the Guru’s subtle form entering my heart. As the scriptures teach, I could not possibly lose my Guru.
Castlemaine, Australia
On Friday evening, October 1, 1982, as I opened my front door to go out on an errand, I was stunned by the magnificence of the full moon. It was the largest and most colorful moon I’d ever seen. It hung low in the sky and the orange color was more reminiscent of a sunset than of the moon.
I actually dropped to the ground and offered pranam to it. I had no forethought about the pranam; it simply happened.
As I drove along, my heart was almost bursting with love and joy. The only way I could express it was by singing the one song I knew about the moon, “Shine On, Harvest Moon,” which I sang for the entire ride.
Early the next morning, on October 2, my phone rang, and I was told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I instantly realized that the moon I had seen the night before was a sign of that momentous event.
I actually dropped to the ground and offered pranam to it. I had no forethought about the pranam; it simply happened.
As I drove along, my heart was almost bursting with love and joy. The only way I could express it was by singing the one song I knew about the moon, “Shine On, Harvest Moon,” which I sang for the entire ride.
Early the next morning, on October 2, my phone rang, and I was told that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I instantly realized that the moon I had seen the night before was a sign of that momentous event.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was living in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. When I first heard that Baba had taken mahasamadhi, I didn’t believe it. But as I walked up to the meditation room that is now Baba’s Samadhi Shrine, I saw a crew preparing the space. It was then that the reality sank in that Baba had left his body.
Over time, as I allowed the reality to settle in that Baba’s exquisite physical form would no longer grace this earth, a gentle and warm feeling began to fill my heart. I came to know with certainty that this feeling was Baba’s presence within me. I then came to realize that Baba is with me and always will be.
Over time, as I allowed the reality to settle in that Baba’s exquisite physical form would no longer grace this earth, a gentle and warm feeling began to fill my heart. I came to know with certainty that this feeling was Baba’s presence within me. I then came to realize that Baba is with me and always will be.
San Felipe, Mexico
My first encounter with Baba Muktananda was in the winter of 1976 at Gurudev Siddha Peeth.
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was working in Saudi Arabia. As I was walking along in the Khurais gas fields, I was stopped in my tracks by a vision of Baba lying on his bed surrounded by Siddha Yoga Swamis. I felt that I was there with all of them and knew it was the time of his departure. I understood that although he might have left his body, that which is the real Baba is forever with us.
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was working in Saudi Arabia. As I was walking along in the Khurais gas fields, I was stopped in my tracks by a vision of Baba lying on his bed surrounded by Siddha Yoga Swamis. I felt that I was there with all of them and knew it was the time of his departure. I understood that although he might have left his body, that which is the real Baba is forever with us.
Louisiana, United States
After spending close to a year with Baba in Gurudev Siddha Peeth in 1981–1982, I went home to Maine to finish my college studies. On the day of the full moon on October 2, 1982, I was sitting on the rocks gazing at the Atlantic Ocean. I had just finished reciting Shri Guru Gita, and as I watched the waves breaking against the shoreline, a powerful feeling of awe, love, and gratitude overwhelmed me. I felt completely at one with everything around me.
When I got home, I received the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. When I heard this, I felt my heart expand. Although there were sadness and tears when I realized that I would never see Baba again in his physical form, I also knew that he would always be there to guide and protect me. And it was clear to me that he had already given his entire ocean of blessings to beloved Gurumayi, and that he would not leave without first showering the world with another great Siddha’s guidance, wisdom, compassion, and love.
When I got home, I received the news that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. When I heard this, I felt my heart expand. Although there were sadness and tears when I realized that I would never see Baba again in his physical form, I also knew that he would always be there to guide and protect me. And it was clear to me that he had already given his entire ocean of blessings to beloved Gurumayi, and that he would not leave without first showering the world with another great Siddha’s guidance, wisdom, compassion, and love.
Hawaii, United States
On the full-moon evening of October 2, 1982, I was sitting on my sofa, reading a book by Baba Muktananda and listening to a Siddha Yoga chanting tape. I looked out the window and caught sight of the moon. A wonderful feeling of love and happiness awakened in my heart.
When the phone rang later, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I realized that this must have happened near the same time that I looked at the moon and felt so much happiness flowing in my heart.
When the phone rang later, I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I realized that this must have happened near the same time that I looked at the moon and felt so much happiness flowing in my heart.
Malmo, Sweden
In October 1982, I was living with my husband in Oakland, California. One day during meditation I felt Baba’s presence in the room so strongly; I became overwhelmed with love for him. I broke into sobs from this powerful darshan I was experiencing in my heart. My husband rushed into the room asking, “What’s wrong?”
I managed to say, “Nothing! Baba’s here!!”
The next morning I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Later, I learned the time of his passing—right at the time I had experienced the filling of my being with his eternal, perfect love.
For this and every moment of incredible grace I continue to receive, I am forever, beyond words, grateful.
I managed to say, “Nothing! Baba’s here!!”
The next morning I learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Later, I learned the time of his passing—right at the time I had experienced the filling of my being with his eternal, perfect love.
For this and every moment of incredible grace I continue to receive, I am forever, beyond words, grateful.
Washington, United States
We celebrated the first anniversary of Baba’s Mahasamadhi on October 2, 1983, at the local chanting and meditation center. When the anniversary of the Lunar Mahasamadhi arrived later that month, I did not remember it.
That night, I was lying in bed in a state midway between waking and sleep, when I saw a brilliant white light at the top of my head. The white light rushed into my head like a torrent and spread through my chest and up my arms, raising them up with its power.
Then, very clearly, Baba appeared before me, as he appears in the picture on the wall of the Samadhi Shrine in Gurudev Siddha Peeth—a photograph I had not yet seen. I realized with a start what day it was. I went to my puja and offered a pranam—grateful that the Guru had remembered me.
From that experience, I became completely convinced about my connection to the Guru, his greatness, and the truth of this path.
That night, I was lying in bed in a state midway between waking and sleep, when I saw a brilliant white light at the top of my head. The white light rushed into my head like a torrent and spread through my chest and up my arms, raising them up with its power.
Then, very clearly, Baba appeared before me, as he appears in the picture on the wall of the Samadhi Shrine in Gurudev Siddha Peeth—a photograph I had not yet seen. I realized with a start what day it was. I went to my puja and offered a pranam—grateful that the Guru had remembered me.
From that experience, I became completely convinced about my connection to the Guru, his greatness, and the truth of this path.
Illinois, United States
On the full-moon evening of October 2, 1982, my fiancée and I were driving back to New York City after a day trip up New York’s Hudson River Valley. It was one of those magical early-fall evenings. As we drove, we passed a gap between two hills and saw the full moon rising.
It was the most perfect, effulgent, radiant moon, illuminating the outline of clouds above and below. I gasped in amazement. Cars were pulling over to the side of the freeway, and people were running out to witness the magical sight. In a state of awe, I thought, “I have never seen anything so perfectly beautiful.”
Less than an hour later we visited the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan and learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was shocked. Yet, remembering what I had seen, I also felt a profound inner expansiveness. I understood that in Baba’s final merging, he truly had become one with all. Even the night sky had reflected the light of his divine Consciousness.
It was the most perfect, effulgent, radiant moon, illuminating the outline of clouds above and below. I gasped in amazement. Cars were pulling over to the side of the freeway, and people were running out to witness the magical sight. In a state of awe, I thought, “I have never seen anything so perfectly beautiful.”
Less than an hour later we visited the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Manhattan and learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I was shocked. Yet, remembering what I had seen, I also felt a profound inner expansiveness. I understood that in Baba’s final merging, he truly had become one with all. Even the night sky had reflected the light of his divine Consciousness.
Ohio, United States
On the morning of October 2, 1982, as I was preparing to participate in a Shaktipat Intensive at the Siddha Yoga Ashram in Melbourne, my wife took a phone call. She quietly came and told me the call was from a sevite at the Ashram, informing us that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. The Intensive was canceled and we would chant Baba’s name instead.
As I received the news of Baba’s mahasamadhi, something surprising happened: an unrestrained love raced through me, the hair on my body standing on end. Never before having experienced such a wondrous state, I stared at my wife wordlessly.
Then we both recalled Baba saying that when he left his body he would enter the hearts of his devotees everywhere. I felt that this was happening to me right then and there.
Later as we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya for the first time, a single teardrop glistened in my eye. It was a tear of happiness. What was the point of grief, I thought? Baba had entered my heart permanently.
As I received the news of Baba’s mahasamadhi, something surprising happened: an unrestrained love raced through me, the hair on my body standing on end. Never before having experienced such a wondrous state, I stared at my wife wordlessly.
Then we both recalled Baba saying that when he left his body he would enter the hearts of his devotees everywhere. I felt that this was happening to me right then and there.
Later as we chanted Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya for the first time, a single teardrop glistened in my eye. It was a tear of happiness. What was the point of grief, I thought? Baba had entered my heart permanently.
North Carolina, United States
One Saturday afternoon I was there under the banyan tree when Baba passed by in his golf cart. I began to see his face in everything around me, the trees, the leaves, the dust.
That night I awoke with a sweet taste in my mouth. My whole body was full of ecstasy, and there was a strong vibration in the crown of my head. I was feeling Baba’s presence and love very intensely. I didn’t know until the next morning that at exactly the time I woke up, Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
That night I awoke with a sweet taste in my mouth. My whole body was full of ecstasy, and there was a strong vibration in the crown of my head. I was feeling Baba’s presence and love very intensely. I didn’t know until the next morning that at exactly the time I woke up, Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
Cuernavaca, Mexico
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I was meditating, and for the first time I entered a space of profound stillness, peace, and happiness. I felt that I was enfolded in love, that I had accessed something I had always known existed yet never before fully experienced, something deeply familiar yet wonderfully new. “Ah,” I thought, “so this is meditation.” When I opened my eyes, I felt full of energy and deeply refreshed, like an inner cleansing had taken place. Full of wonder, I went to tell my husband—who told me he had just heard that Baba Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi.
Somehow I knew that I had experienced Baba’s shakti directly, even though I lived halfway around the world from India. Through Baba’s grace, I’d had a profound experience of my inner Self. This experience changed my life. I have been meditating regularly ever since that day, and meditation has become the foundation of my life, connecting me to the source of strength and stillness within.
Somehow I knew that I had experienced Baba’s shakti directly, even though I lived halfway around the world from India. Through Baba’s grace, I’d had a profound experience of my inner Self. This experience changed my life. I have been meditating regularly ever since that day, and meditation has become the foundation of my life, connecting me to the source of strength and stillness within.
Wales, United Kingdom
The meditation hall in the Santa Monica Ashram was very still. Only the soft chanting of Om Namo Bhagavate Nityanandaya floated through the air. A strong mixture of sadness and deep love filled me as I sat on the floor and covered myself with my meditation shawl.
As I began to chant, I recalled Baba’s deep love for his Guru, whose name we were chanting. Tears flowed down my face. My heart was full of love. Sometime during the night, as if on perfect cue, and in unison, every devotee in the room began to chant Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya very softly. It gained momentum as the night developed, until it was a joyous chant full of fervor, love, and peace. Baba was there in our hearts, uplifting us with each syllable we chanted. Full of his love, full of his grace, Baba’s words again came floating through my mind: “I will never leave you.” It was the greatest cause for celebration.
As I began to chant, I recalled Baba’s deep love for his Guru, whose name we were chanting. Tears flowed down my face. My heart was full of love. Sometime during the night, as if on perfect cue, and in unison, every devotee in the room began to chant Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya very softly. It gained momentum as the night developed, until it was a joyous chant full of fervor, love, and peace. Baba was there in our hearts, uplifting us with each syllable we chanted. Full of his love, full of his grace, Baba’s words again came floating through my mind: “I will never leave you.” It was the greatest cause for celebration.
Florida, United States
When I received the news of Baba’s passing, I traveled to Gurudev Siddha Peeth to go to Baba’s Samadhi Shrine and to see Gurumayi. I had hoped that Baba would appear to me, but no matter how I looked for him in the Ashram gardens, he did not appear.
Then I received a letter from my husband, informing me that our nine-year-old son had become ill while I was away and that my mother was helping to look after him. He told me that my mother had been talking to my son, when suddenly Baba’s face appeared on my son’s face. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, my mother looked away. Three times she looked away, and each time when she looked back, Baba was still there; then the vision faded. My mother told my husband of her amazing vision and said, “But Baba wasn’t wearing that red dot,” pointing to Baba’s picture in my husband’s study.
We learned later that Baba had stopped wearing his bindi a few days before he left his body. Baba did appear—and where he was really needed. My mother was blessed, and my ardent wish was granted.
Then I received a letter from my husband, informing me that our nine-year-old son had become ill while I was away and that my mother was helping to look after him. He told me that my mother had been talking to my son, when suddenly Baba’s face appeared on my son’s face. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, my mother looked away. Three times she looked away, and each time when she looked back, Baba was still there; then the vision faded. My mother told my husband of her amazing vision and said, “But Baba wasn’t wearing that red dot,” pointing to Baba’s picture in my husband’s study.
We learned later that Baba had stopped wearing his bindi a few days before he left his body. Baba did appear—and where he was really needed. My mother was blessed, and my ardent wish was granted.
North Carolina, United States
In the fall of 1982, I was staying on the Greek island of Patmos; after only a week there, I woke up on the full-moon night of October 2 in an agitated state. Days later, after checking into a hotel in Athens, I taped a photo of Baba on the wall and bought an English language newspaper. Later I glanced at it—the paper had fallen open to the obituary page, and my eyes were drawn to a short paragraph about Baba’s passing on October 2.
I was shocked, but to calm myself, I picked up my chanting book and through my tears began to chant Shri Guru Gita to Baba’s picture. Immediately, I experienced a sense of stillness and well-being. The next morning when I went out into the streets of Athens, I saw Baba in the faces of people, the façades of buildings, the trees—Baba was everywhere, and the world was only love.
I was shocked, but to calm myself, I picked up my chanting book and through my tears began to chant Shri Guru Gita to Baba’s picture. Immediately, I experienced a sense of stillness and well-being. The next morning when I went out into the streets of Athens, I saw Baba in the faces of people, the façades of buildings, the trees—Baba was everywhere, and the world was only love.
California, United States
In 1982, years before I started following the Siddha Yoga path, I was lying in my room, silently repeating AUM. The repetition of this sound led me into a deep meditation. When I came out of meditation and opened my eyes, a brilliant golden light was emanating from my heart and surrounding my entire body. Everything I touched became filled with and surrounded by this golden light: my books, notebooks, pens, clothes, chair—everything! Then the light spread throughout the room and slowly faded, leaving me with a sense of joy and lightness.
In 1989, I began my Siddha Yoga sadhana. Later, I came across a book in which Baba explained that when the Guru takes mahasamadhi, he enters into his disciples. When I looked back at my meditation journals, I found that my experience years ago had occurred on October 2, 1982—the day Baba took mahasamadhi!
I am so grateful that Baba entered into my heart on that day in the form of light and led me, a few years later, to Gurumayi.
In 1989, I began my Siddha Yoga sadhana. Later, I came across a book in which Baba explained that when the Guru takes mahasamadhi, he enters into his disciples. When I looked back at my meditation journals, I found that my experience years ago had occurred on October 2, 1982—the day Baba took mahasamadhi!
I am so grateful that Baba entered into my heart on that day in the form of light and led me, a few years later, to Gurumayi.
Fort-de-France, Martinique
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I had left my city apartment to go to a country house. As I walked in nature that afternoon, a large flock of little birds came swirling along, chirping above my head. I spontaneously started to chant Om Namo Bhagavate Muktanandaya. That evening, when I saw the full moon, which was so bright, I remembered Baba. Then I went to bed.
In the middle of the night, I suddenly heard a loud voice, which seemed to be coming from my core. I recognized Baba’s voice, repeating Om Namah Shivaya. I stood up, astonished. Then I heard Baba say to me, “Whenever you want to be with me, just repeat the Name.”
When I arrived back in the city, I found a note from a friend that said, “Baba has taken mahasamadhi.” I then realized the deep significance of the experience of the night before, and how Baba, out of his love and compassion, had prepared me for this powerful and unique event.
I am so grateful to Baba for the most precious gift of his everlasting presence in my heart.
In the middle of the night, I suddenly heard a loud voice, which seemed to be coming from my core. I recognized Baba’s voice, repeating Om Namah Shivaya. I stood up, astonished. Then I heard Baba say to me, “Whenever you want to be with me, just repeat the Name.”
When I arrived back in the city, I found a note from a friend that said, “Baba has taken mahasamadhi.” I then realized the deep significance of the experience of the night before, and how Baba, out of his love and compassion, had prepared me for this powerful and unique event.
I am so grateful to Baba for the most precious gift of his everlasting presence in my heart.
a staff member in Shree Muktananda Ashram
In October 1982, I returned to my home to find that my favorite picture of Baba had fallen to the floor. I was happy to find, on close inspection, that only the glass covering the picture was damaged. Fortunately, the picture itself was undamaged.
Later I received a telegram saying that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I felt that Baba had lovingly shown me that only his outer shell had passed and that he still existed as fully as ever.
Later I received a telegram saying that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. I felt that Baba had lovingly shown me that only his outer shell had passed and that he still existed as fully as ever.
Cairns, Australia
Early in the morning of October 2, 1982, as I was walking down the stairs from one of the dormitories in Gurudev Siddha Peeth, I became aware that the atmosphere was unusually still. I walked toward the offices, and one of the Ashram managers came out and told me that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. As this reality sank in, my mind became utterly still. Expecting to break down in tears, I walked behind a screen in the nearby hall. As I stood there, I was amazed that I felt no sadness. Instead, waves of joy began to wash over me as I felt Baba’s presence ever so powerfully. I realized that Baba was in my heart—and always would be—and that his grace could reach me anywhere.
New Jersey, United States
In October 1982, I was taking a year off from college studies, feeling sad and out of touch with my spirit and life’s purpose. I was sharing a house with other students, and one of my friends had a little meditation room with a photo of Baba. One day, I sat in this little room, lit a candle, and tried meditating for the first time. As I sat and watched Baba’s photo, I felt a stillness and love inside me that I had never felt before. My thoughts and deep unrest seemed to dissolve as I looked at Baba’s eyes.
A few days later, I went for the first time with my friend to the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. I loved the music, the chanting, and the video talk by Baba. Yet, people were consoling each other because Baba had just taken mahasamadhi a few days before; in fact, that had been the very day that I found his picture in my friend’s room and meditated for the first time.
I began walking the Siddha Yoga path that day. Thank you, Baba, for your guidance and love.
A few days later, I went for the first time with my friend to the local Siddha Yoga meditation center. I loved the music, the chanting, and the video talk by Baba. Yet, people were consoling each other because Baba had just taken mahasamadhi a few days before; in fact, that had been the very day that I found his picture in my friend’s room and meditated for the first time.
I began walking the Siddha Yoga path that day. Thank you, Baba, for your guidance and love.
Maryland, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, my grandmother was there in Gurudev Siddha Peeth. She shared her experience with me in these words:
I was feeling very sad. I was wishing to speak with Baba, but Baba wasn’t there anymore. That night I went to sleep with this deep sorrow. In the middle of the night, I felt Baba’s touch gently shaking me awake. Baba asked, “You were about to speak with me. Tell me, what do you want to say? I am here.” I replied, “Now that you’ve come and given me darshan, what more could I wish for than this? I have everything.”
I offer pranam again and again to Gurumayi and Baba!
I was feeling very sad. I was wishing to speak with Baba, but Baba wasn’t there anymore. That night I went to sleep with this deep sorrow. In the middle of the night, I felt Baba’s touch gently shaking me awake. Baba asked, “You were about to speak with me. Tell me, what do you want to say? I am here.” I replied, “Now that you’ve come and given me darshan, what more could I wish for than this? I have everything.”
I offer pranam again and again to Gurumayi and Baba!
Dombivli, India
It was the last day of our summer visit to Shree Muktananda Ashram in 1981, and I was standing outside the hall with our first baby son in his stroller when Baba strode past me. Baba was vibrant and glowing with bliss, yet something inside me knew that this would be the last time I would see him in the flesh. I wept spontaneously.
On October 3, 1982, I was watching our son on the floor, drawing with his crayons and paper. The phone rang. It was a Siddha Yogi who was passing on the message that Baba had left his body the day before. My heart filled with Baba’s presence, and I knew he was right there with me, and in me, in the form of my own love.
Since that moment, I have never doubted that the Guru is always with me, directly accessible in my own heart. This conviction has kept me steady in my sadhana as a householder, offering a life of service.
Thank you, Gurumayi, and thank you, Baba, for the key to a truly fulfilling life.
On October 3, 1982, I was watching our son on the floor, drawing with his crayons and paper. The phone rang. It was a Siddha Yogi who was passing on the message that Baba had left his body the day before. My heart filled with Baba’s presence, and I knew he was right there with me, and in me, in the form of my own love.
Since that moment, I have never doubted that the Guru is always with me, directly accessible in my own heart. This conviction has kept me steady in my sadhana as a householder, offering a life of service.
Thank you, Gurumayi, and thank you, Baba, for the key to a truly fulfilling life.
Toronto, Canada
I met Baba in 1979 and offered seva during his Third World Tour and at Gurudev Siddha Peeth until Baba took mahasamadhi in 1982. During that time I listened to Baba speak beautifully about the inner Self in each evening satsang and in Shaktipat Intensives, but I did not feel I’d experienced what Baba was talking about. On the morning of Baba’s mahasamadhi, Gurumayi gave a talk in which she said that Baba had just entered our hearts. In that moment I experienced a sweet stirring of shakti in my heart that I recognized as Baba’s presence. That experience has never left me.
California, United States
On the day of the full moon, October 2, 1982, I was in the courtyard of Gurudev Siddha Peeth. I experienced a profound longing to be with Baba. At that instant, a beautiful red-and-blue dragonfly came to rest on my knee, and I heard inside myself: “This body is ephemeral; the Self is eternal.” I realized that Baba, immersed in the Self, is everywhere and that he is forever with me. This understanding increased my inner strength and allowed my love to blossom.
Rodez, France
On the night of October 1, 1982, my parents and I were out walking when my mom looked up at the bright, full moon and exclaimed with joy, “Look, it’s Baba’s face in the moon! It’s Baba’s face!” Her laughter echoed joy that was contagious.
The next day, I drove to the Siddha Yoga Meditation Center in Miami to attend satsang. When I arrived, I noticed that many people were standing outside. I did not know what was happening, but when the announcement that Baba had taken mahasamadhi was made, I felt my arms raise upward to heaven, tears filling my eyes. I realized that I was smiling ear-to-ear as I heard Baba’s voice within me say, “I have become my name! I have become my name! I have become my name: the bliss of freedom!”
The next day, I drove to the Siddha Yoga Meditation Center in Miami to attend satsang. When I arrived, I noticed that many people were standing outside. I did not know what was happening, but when the announcement that Baba had taken mahasamadhi was made, I felt my arms raise upward to heaven, tears filling my eyes. I realized that I was smiling ear-to-ear as I heard Baba’s voice within me say, “I have become my name! I have become my name! I have become my name: the bliss of freedom!”
New Mexico, United States
In 1982, my friend and I were signed up to participate in a meditation course at the Ashram in Melbourne. I was looking forward to the experience of inner peace, which is the reason I was drawn to learn to meditate. Then, one day in October, my friend called to tell me that the course was canceled because Swami Muktananda had taken mahasamadhi.
I was quite upset that my plans were thwarted. I began pacing the room saying to myself, “Muktananda, I really wanted to do this!” I said it several times, and the last time it came out with some force and a stamp of my foot. At that moment, I heard a loud clapping sound, and a yogi sitting in a cross-legged position appeared in my third-eye region. This was how I received shaktipat initiation.
I was quite upset that my plans were thwarted. I began pacing the room saying to myself, “Muktananda, I really wanted to do this!” I said it several times, and the last time it came out with some force and a stamp of my foot. At that moment, I heard a loud clapping sound, and a yogi sitting in a cross-legged position appeared in my third-eye region. This was how I received shaktipat initiation.
New York, United States
On the full-moon night of October 2, 1982, I was on a camping trip in the mountains of Kashmir. The moon that night was the biggest full moon I’d ever seen. It filled me with awe and wonder. I sensed that this moon held a promise of fulfillment of my profound yearning. I experienced the feeling of oneness with the universe that night and didn’t sleep.
I did not then know Baba Muktananda. When I became a student of the Siddha Yoga path five years later, I learned that October 2, 1982, was the night that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
In meditation, I have returned many times to that totally still night—no longer a moment in the past, but a timeless time when Baba was with me before I even knew he existed.
I did not then know Baba Muktananda. When I became a student of the Siddha Yoga path five years later, I learned that October 2, 1982, was the night that Baba had taken mahasamadhi.
In meditation, I have returned many times to that totally still night—no longer a moment in the past, but a timeless time when Baba was with me before I even knew he existed.
California, United States
In the fall of 1982, I was offering seva in Shree Muktananda Ashram. One evening after dinner, I decided to go outside for some fresh air. I was alone and walked to the hillside that overlooked the Ashram. As I sat there, I felt wave after wave of a wonderful loving energy; I knew it was Baba. The experience continued to expand, and I was immersed in a state where I felt that I was truly loved by Baba. The moon was particularly large and full that night, and it was very bright.
Eventually, I made my way back to the Ashram. Instantly, I could feel something was very different. I then learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Even though the news was shocking, the experience that I was having continued to fill me with shakti. I knew Baba was still with me, and I never felt any disruption in his presence within me. The experience totally supported me.
Eventually, I made my way back to the Ashram. Instantly, I could feel something was very different. I then learned that Baba had taken mahasamadhi. Even though the news was shocking, the experience that I was having continued to fill me with shakti. I knew Baba was still with me, and I never felt any disruption in his presence within me. The experience totally supported me.
California, United States