12th January 1976: Swami Asimananda ji (Nalini Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in February 1976)
Swami Asimananda ji (Nalini Maharaj), aged 93, passed away at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama on the 12th January 1976 at 7-35 a.m. due to acute coronary thrombosis and heart failure. He had not been keeping well for the last few years and was admitted to the Home of Service several times for treatment.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order in 1909 at the Varanasi Home of Service, then situated at Ramapura, and had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1921. Most of his life was spent in Varanasi. For some time he was the head of Kankhal Sevashrama. He was a Trustee of the Math and a Member of the Governing Body for some time. He was also the Accountant of the Math and the Mission for some years during which period he lived at the Belur Math. He had been leading a retired life at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama for the last few years. Amiable by nature, he was loved by those who came in contact with him.
16 January 1976 : Swami Bhaskareswarananda (Vipradas Maharaj): Announced to the Public in February 1976
Swami Bhaskareswarananda (Vipradas Maharaj), aged 78, passed away at Nagpur Ashrama on the 16th January at about 5-00 a.m. due to cardiac arrest. Of late, he was not keeping well and the end came rather suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1922 at the Bhubaneswar Math and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1923. He worked in Bhubaneswar and Narayanganj centres in various capacities. He became the President of the Nagpur centre since its inception in 1928 and continued till last. He was a good orator and published many editions of our literature in Marathi and Hindi, besides the monthly magazine ‘Jivanvikas’. He was respected by many for his scholarship and sadhu qualities.
2nd March 1976: Swami Atandrananda (Panchanan) (Announced to the Public in April 1976)
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Atandrananda (Panchanan), aged 65, at the Seva Pratishthan on 2nd March 1976 at 8.50 a.m. due to cardio respiratory failure. For the last several months he had been leading a retired life at Belur Math. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Kankhal Sevashrama in 1932 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. In addition to the joining centre, he served the Sangha through its Katihar, Ceylon, Patna, Vrindaban, Ranchi (Sanatorium), Deoghar, Purulia and Baghbazar (Udbodhan) centres in different capacities. He also took part in Midnapore and East Bengal Cyclone & Distress Relief in 1944. Simple by nature he was loved by many.
3 April 1976 : Swami Tattwananda (Kalimohan) :Announced to the Public in May 1976
Swami Tattwananda (Kalimohan), aged 78, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 3rd April 1976 at 12-45 p.m. due to cerebro vascular accident with uraemia. He had not been keeping well for the last few months. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Delhi Ashrama in 1929 and had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. Besides being the head of Kankurgachhi and Srinagar (now closed) centres, he worked at Madras, Deoghar, Kanpur and Asansol centres in different capacities. He did some Tapasya staying at Uttarkashi and Rishikesh. He was a teacher of the Probationers’ Training Centre till March, 1971 after which he had been leading a retired life. He wrote some books both in English and in Bengali. He was respected by many for his austere and Sadhu qualities.
29 April 1976 : Swami Ishwarananda ji :Announced to the Public in May 1976
Swami Ishwarananda ji, aged 81, passed away at Trichur on 29th April 1976 at 5-15 p.m. He had been suffering from throat cancer for several months and ultimately succumbed to it.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Bangalore Ashrama in 1920 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1923. Besides being the head of Kanchipuram, Mysore, Chengalpattu and Trichur centres, he worked at Trivandrum, Quilandy, Madras, Ootacamund and Rajkot Ashramas. Simple by nature he was loved by many.
9 May 1976 : Akshayananda ji (Keshav Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in June 1976
Swami Akshayananda ji (Keshav Maharaj), aged 90, passed away at the Chandipur Ashrama on the 9th May 1976 at 5-06 p.m. due to coronary thrombosis. Of late, he had not been keeping well for the last few months.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Udbodhan in 1920 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1926. Besides being the head of Kamarpukur for some time and of Chandipur since 1952, he served the Organization through its Varanasi Sevashrama, Jayrambati and Bhubaneswar centres. He worked also at the Belur Math dispensary and participated in some relief work done through the headquarters. For his simple and austere habits, he was loved by all.
29 May 1976 : Swami Medhasananda (Madhavan) :Announced to the Public in June 1976
Swami Medhasananda (Madhavan), aged 76, passed away at Calicut on 29th May 1976 at 5-00 a.m. due to abnormal rise of the pressure.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1927 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. Apart from Calicut and Quilandy where he had been since 1968, he served the Sangha through its Trivandrum, Rajahmundry, Kalady, Tiruvalla and Ponnampet centres. He was also at the Belur Math for a couple of years. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all who came in contact with him.
4 June 1976 : Swami Sitaramananda ji (Jogesh) :Announced to the Public in July 1976
Swami Sitaramananda ji (Jogesh), aged 82, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 4th June 1976 at 3-40 p.m. due to acute myocardial infarction. He sustained an attack on the 28th May and was immediately moved to Seva Pratishthan, where he was progressing slowly. Despite best medical care, the end came rather suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Narayanganj centre (now in Bangladesh) in 1915 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1939. Besides the joining centre, he served Baliati Ashrama for nearly three decades of which for about 15 years he was its President. For the last few years he was leading a retired life at the Belur Math. He was loved and respected by all for his amiable and jovial nature.
10 June 1976 : Swami Satyarupananda (Dinesh) :Announced to the Public in July 1976
Swami Satyarupananda (Dinesh), aged 78, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan at 00-45 hours on 10th June 1976, due to cardio respiratory failure. For the last one year or more he was undergoing treatment for bladder carcinoma at the Seva Pratishthan.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Silchar in 1925 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1933. Besides the joining centre, he served the Sangha through Varanasi Home of Service, Kishanpur and Kankhal Sevashramas. Of late he had been leading a retired life at the Math. For his simplicity, he was respected by all who came in contact with him.
4 July 1976 : Swami Prabhavananda ji (Abani Maharaj): Announced to the Public in August 1976
Swami Prabhavananda ji (Abani Maharaj), aged 82, passed away in his room at the Hollywood centre on Sunday, the 4th July 1976 at 12-03 a.m. (American time), owing to myocardial infarction. He had been admitted to the Mount Siani Hospital in Los Angeles with a congestive heart condition on the May 29th and was brought back to the centre on the 18th June. On 3rd July afternoon he had final heart attack and ultimately succumbed to it.
A disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Belur Math in 1914 and took sannyasa in 1921 from his Guru. After working as the Assistant Editor of the Prabuddha Bharata and the Vedanta Kesari, he went to San Francisco in 1923 as Assistant Minister. Subsequently he founded the Portland and Hollywood Vedanta Societies. From 1929 till the end he was the head of the Hollywood Vedanta Centre. He was an impressive speaker and writer. He did valuable work for consolidating and developing Vedanta Movement in the States. He was a widely travelled preacher and had to his credit a number of books. He was also the Founder Editor of the journal ‘Vedanta and the West’. He established two monasteries, at Hollywood and Trabuco, and two convents, at Hollywood and Santa Barbara.
15 September 1976 : Swami Nishkamananda (Damu) :Announced to the Public in October 1976
Swami Nishkamananda (Damu), aged 74, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 15th September 1976 at 9-45 p.m. due to cerebral thrombosis. He came here [Belur Math] from Madras in the last week of May ’76 for treatment and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan. For the last few weeks he was in comatose state and the end came in spite of best medical care.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Bangalore Ashrama in 1927 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj in 1936. Besides being the head of Ootacamund, Coimbatore, Rangoon Sevashrama, Singapore and Madras Mission centres, he worked in Ponnampet, Mayavati, Colombo, Kankhal and Madras Math in different capacities. Simple and austere by nature, he was loved and respected by many.
14 October 1976 : Swami Jitendrananda (Jatin) :Announced to the Public in November 1976
Swami Jitendrananda (Jatin), aged 62, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 14th October 1976 at 1-10 a.m. due to myocardial infarction with acute left ventricular failure. A few years back he sustained paralytic stroke and underwent treatment at Lucknow Polyclinic. He came to Math about a year back and subsequently was admitted to Seva Pratishthan. The end came quite unexpectedly in spite of best medical care.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Belur Math in 1939 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1948. Besides Belur Math, he worked in Seva Pratishthan, Vrindaban, Varanasi and Lucknow Sevashramas. For some time he was sevak of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Being amiable by nature he was loved by those who came in contact with him.
12 February 1977 : Swami Nirajananda (Govinda) :Announced to the Public in March 1977
Swami Nirajananda (Govindan), aged 73, passed away on 12th February 1977 at 6-40 a.m. at the Varanasi Home of Service. He sustained cerebral thrombosis on 13th January and was admitted to the hospital there. He was improving gradually but suddenly the end came in spite of best medical care.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Belur Math in 1935 at Rangoon Sevashrama, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1946. Besides the joining centre, he worked in Saradapitha (Belur), Kalady, Singapore and Varanasi Home of Service. Most of his life was spent in Varanasi. Being jovial by nature, he endeared himself to all who came in contact with him.
19 April 1977 : Swami Vishwatmananda (Suren) :Announced to the Public in May 1977
Swami Vishwatmananda (Suren), aged 73, passed away on 19 April 1977 at 7 p.m. at the Math due to cardio respiratory failure.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Dhaka Ashrama in 1921 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1925. Most of his life he spent outside the Organization. He specialized in craft training and engaged himself in imparting this knowledge among the poor class people at Dhanbad and Dum Dum. For nearly two decades he performed tapasya on the bank of the Narmada. During last part of his life he also stayed for a few months at Contai Ashrama as a retired monk. He wrote a book ‘Baner Dak’ in Bengali which was translated into Hindi and was much appreciated. For his simple and austere habits, he was loved by many.
7 July 1977 : Swami Jnanadananda ji (Nilkantha Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in August 1977
Swami Jnanadananda ji (Nilkantha Maharaj), aged 84, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 7th July 1977 at 12-20 noon, due to cerebro vascular accident. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1921 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1924. Besides being the head of Malda and Bankura centres, he worked as a Pujari and Bhandari at the Math and Varanasi Advaita Ashrama, at which last place he had been leading a retired life for more than ten years. For his simple and quiet nature he was loved by many.
25 July 1977 : Swami Srikarananda (Sridharan) : Announced to the Public in August 1977
Swami Srikarananda (Sridharan), aged 61, passed away at our Trivandrum Hospital on 25th July 1977 at 2-30 p.m. due to congestive cardiac failure coupled with urinary infection. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Bangalore Vedanta College in 1939 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Besides being the head of Nattarampalli Ashrama, he worked in Trichur, Calicut, Ponampet, Kalady, Salem, Rangoon Society, Singapore, and Trivandrum centres. Being simple and jovial by nature, he endeared himself to all who came in contact with him.
4 August 1977 : Swami Saumyananda ji (Deven Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in September 1977
Swami Saumyananda ji (Deven Maharaj), aged 82, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 4th August 1977 at 9-45 a.m. due to Parkinsonism with broncho-pulmonary infection.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Syhlet Ashrama in 1919 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1925. Besides being the head of Syhlet, Shillong and Bhubaneswar centres, he served the Sangha in various capacities. He inspired many devotees in different parts of Assam to start as many as thirty Ashramas to be run by the devotees themselves. He could sing well and specialized in ‘tabla’ and ‘mridanga’. He had been leading a retired life for many years at Digboi and Pandu and then at Belur Math from where he was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment a few months back. He was loved and respected by all for his childlike simplicity and kind heart.
25 August 1977 : Swami Purnatmananda (Suddha Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in September 1977
Swami Purnatmananda (Suddha Maharaj), aged 78, passed away at Almora on 25th August 1977 at 3-10 p.m. due to renal failure. He went to Almora in June last from Varanasi where he had been leading a retired life for the last two years. He had some fever on the 16th last and was admitted to the hospital on the 23rd for treatment but the end came suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at its Baranagore centre in 1921 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1927. Besides being the head of Bhubaneswar and Almora for many years, he worked in different capacities at Belur Math, Dhaka, Bankura, and Jayrambati centres. He also conducted relief work in Bengal and Orissa. For his simple and austere habits he was loved by many.
9 November 1977 : Swami Sadhanananda ji (Harasundar Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in December 1977
Swami Sadhanananda ji (Harasundar Maharaj), aged 76, passed away at the Cossipore Math on 9th November 1977 at 8 a.m. due to heart failure. A few months back he was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment and rest. He returned to Cossipore and resumed work, but the end came suddenly.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Baghbazar Math (Udbodhan House) in 1921 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1926. He worked at Jamtara, and was the head of Dinajpur, Barisal, Bagerhat, Dhaka, Shillong and Cossipore centres, and at the last he continued as such for the past 25 years. For his simple and austere Sadhu life, he was loved and respected by all.
18 November 1977 : Swami Pavitrananda ji (Bhupen Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in December 1977
Swami Pavitrananda ji (Bhupen Maharaj), aged 81, passed away at the Vedanta Society, New York, on 18th November 1977 at 4 a.m. due to a fatal terminal stroke resulting from a progressive cerebral vascular disease from which he was suffering for the past ten years. For the last three months he had been suffering from diarrhoea, for which he was hospitalized twice. But nothing serious was detected. Of late, he had shown some steady improvement in his general condition and was even looking forward to resuming his normal activities to a certain extent. But the end came most unexpectedly and without prolonged suffering.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1922 and had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1923. He was sent to South India for a short time to conduct spiritual classes at the Annamalai University. In 1925 the Swami was posted to Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, with which, together with its Publication Branch at Calcutta, he was closely and continuously associated for nearly 24 years until 1948.
He worked for some years as Manager of the Advaita Ashrama Publication Department, then became the Editor of the Prabuddha Bharat from 1931 for 4 years, and in 1937 was elected President of the Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, which position he held until 1948. He was made a Trustee and Governing Body member in 1947 and in 1949 was appointed as one of the Assistant Secretaries at the Headquarters. The Swami went to America in 1951 as Head of the Vedanta Society of New York and continued in that post till the last. He was much loved and respected by his brother-monks, devotees and disciples. He maintained a sprit of independence and an attitude of precision and perfection in everything he said or did. He was good speaker, wrote articles profusely, and was the author of 3 small books. He was polite and gentle by nature, easily accessible to young and old, and scrupulously maintained lofty principles and practices of monastic life. In him the Order has lost a very capable and responsible monk.
21 December 1977 : Swami Jivashivananda (Subodh) : Announced to the Public in January 1978
Swami Jivashivananda (Subodh), aged 70, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on the 21st December, 1977 at 8-40 a.m., due to acute myocardial infarction. He was admitted there on the same morning at 8-10 a.m., and in spite of the best medical care, the end came very soon.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Mysore Ashrama in 1927 and had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1939. Besides the joining centre, he worked in different capacities at Ponnampet, Bangalore, Madras, Nattaraampalli, Delhi, Kankhal, Vrindaban, Belur Math, Lucknow, Shillong, Mayavati, Chandigarh, and Bhubaneswar centres. He also participated in Relief work in Assam, Patna and Agartala. Formany years he did Tapasya at Rishikesh and Uttarkashi. For the last one and a half years he was leading a retired life at Advaita Ashrama, Varanasi. He was a good singer and was loved by many for his simple austere habits.
30 January 1978 : Swami Vishwashrayananda (Nandi) : Announced to the Public in February 1978
Swami Vishwashrayananda (Nandi), aged 62, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 30th January ‘78 at 2 p.m., due to acute myocardial infarction. He was admitted in the Intensive Care Unit there on the 21st last and in spite of the best medical care the end came suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Calcutta Students’ Home, then at Gauripur (Dum Dum) in 1940 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. He served the Students’ Home in different capacities and then became the Editor of ‘Udbodhan’ in December 1964. He was appointed head of Baghbazar Math in June 1973 and continued as such till last. He conducted Orissa Flood Relief at Balasore in 1960. He wrote quite a few books in Bengali especially for the children which are very popular. His Bengali translation of Swami Nirvedananda’s book ‘Sri Ramakrishna and Spiritual Renaissance’ has been well appreciated. Sweet and amiable by nature he was loved by all.
3rd February 1978 : Swami Bhaswarananda ji (Buddha Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in March 1978)
Swami Bhaswarananda ji (Buddha Maharaj), aged 78, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 3rd February 1978 at 2-50 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure with acute uremia and parkinsonism. He had been suffering from various ailments for the last few months and, in spite of the best medical care, the end came gradually.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1920 and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1927. He served the Organization at Belur Math, Barisal, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and the Varanasi Home of Service. During the Second World War he was put to extreme difficulties at Singapore. He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and a Member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1961. He participated in Kurukshetra relief work. For the last five years he was leading a retired life at Varanasi Home of Service. Sweet, simple and amiable by nature he was loved by all.
25 March 1978 : Swami Shuddhabodhananda (Ponnappan) : Announced to the Public in April 1978
Swami Shuddhabodhananda (Ponnappan), aged 65, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 25 March ‘78 at 5-15 pm due to acute myocardial infarction with diabetes mellitus and gastroenteritis. Earlier when on his tour in North India he reached Lucknow with several ailments. After recovery he started for Calcutta and reached Institution of Culture on the 24th last from where he was transferred to Seva Pratishthan at 2-30 pm on the 25th. But the end came very suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Trichur Ashrama in 1935 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1944. Besides the joining centre he worked at Belur Math for some time and was the head of Cherrapunji, Kishanpur, and Tiruvalla centres. At Cherrapunji he continued for two decades during which the centre grew rapidly. He had been leading a retired life at Trichur Ashrama since 1969. For his sincere and simple life he was loved by many.
27 March 1978 : Swami Vishwavedananda (Bimal) : Announced to the Public in April 1978
Swami Vishwavedananda (Bimal), aged 72, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 27th March 1978 at 11-18 a.m. due to cardio respiratory failure in post-operation case of carcinoma (R) kidney. He had been suffering for the last few months and the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1935 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1945. He worked in different capacities at Katihar, Patna, Belur Math, Allahabad, New Delhi, Vrindaban, Bankura and Raipur Centres and was the head of Khetri Centre from 1965 to ‘69. Several times he went to Uttarkashi and Rishikesh for Tapasya. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved by all.
31 March 1978 : Swami Vishwakarmananda (Joshi) : Announced to the Public in May 1978
Swami Vishwakarmananda (Joshi), aged 80, passed away at Varanasi Home of Service, on 31st March, 1978 at 10-30 a.m. due to chronic hypertension with progressive renal failure. He was admitted to Sevashrama Hospital on the 5th February for the treatment of chronic hypertension and subsequently he developed uremia and the end came gradually.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Saradapitha, Belur, in 1943 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1950. From 1964 onwards he was staying at Varanasi Home of Service, doing some light work for some years and since the last few years has been leading a retired life there. He was a good mechanical engineer and an expert in watch manufacturing. He was an austere monk of simple habits, and was loved and respected by all.
29 April 1978 : Swami Trayambakananda (Shakti Maharaj): Announced to the Public in June 1978
Trayambakananda (Shakti Maharaj), aged 81, passed away at Kankhal Sevashrama on 29th April 1978 at 1 a.m. due to old-age ailments.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1917 and had Sannyasa from Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1923. Besides the Math, he was Pujari at Udbodhan, Bombay, Colombo, and Mysore Centres on different times. He had been leading a retired life at Kankhal for the last several years. He was loved by many for his simple austere life.
5 May 1978 : Swami Tadrupananda (Giri) : Announced to the Public in June 1978
Swami Tadrupananda (Giri), aged 45, passed away on 5th May ‘ 78 in a friend’s house at Bareilly. He had gone there from Mayavati on 3rd May to see off some close friends who had gone to Mayavati. He felt indisposed that evening and his condition grew worse gradually on the following two days, and the end came suddenly on the evening of the 5th May. It seems to have been a case of severe sunstroke followed by gastro-enteritis complications.
An initiated disciple of Swami Yatiswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Bangalore Ashrama in 1952 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj in 1962. Besides his joining Centre, he worked at Madras Math in different capacities. He was Joint Editor of ‘Prabuddha Bharat’ for six years from 1971-76 and was elected President of Advaita Ashrama , Mayavati, in April 1977 and continued as such till last. He was a good speaker and an impressive writer, and was endowed with scholarly attainments and pursuits. He possessed an amiable and gentle disposition, and was loved by all for his sweet nature and simple habits. The Order lost in him a promising and capable member.
12 May 1978 : Swami Durgatmananda (Balaram) : Announced to the Public in June 1978
Swami Durgatmananda (Balaram), aged 71, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 12th May ‘ 78 at 2-50 a.m. due to congestive cardiac failure. His being an old case of Ischamia heart disease with complete Heart Block, a ‘Pace Maker’ was fitted to his heart about 10 months back in Calcutta from where he returned to Varanasi. The end came in spite of all possible treatment.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Udbodhan in 1926 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1933. Besides being the Head of Kalimpong Centre, he worked at Udbodhan and Institute of Culture. He participated in Punjab Refugee Relief and East Bengal Refugee Relief works. Sweet and amiable by nature he was loved by many.
12 June 1978 : Swami Parameswarananda ji (Kishori Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in July 1978
Swami Parameswarananda ji (Kishori Maharaj), aged 92, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 12th June ’78 at 1 p.m. due to old-age ailments. For the last few months he was not keeping well and was brought to Seva Pratishthan on the 8th last.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined at Koalpara Ashrama in 1910 and had formal Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1916 (‘Gerua cloth’ was given by the Holy Mother). Since joining the Order, he was at Jayrambati-Koalpara and had the rare privilege of serving the Holy Mother in her day-to-day activities. He was the President of Jayrambati Centre from 1918 to 1966, after which he had been leading a retired life there. Simple and amiable by nature he was loved and respected by all. His cremation took place at Jayrambati.
13 October 1978 : Swami Bhayaharananda (Manindra) :Announced to the Public in November 1978
Swami Bhayaharananda (Manindra), aged 63, passed away at Lucknow Sevashrama on 13th October 1978 due to kidney failure. He was diabetic patient with an irreversible kidney damage.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Varanasi Sevashrama in 1939 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1949. Besides his joining Centre, he worked at Belur Vidyamandir, Seva Pratishthan, Rahara and Lucknow Centres in different capacities. He also served his Guru for some time. Sweet and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
19 October 1978 : Swami Ishtananda (Rakhal Maharaj) :Announced to the Public in November 1978
Swami Ishtananda (Rakhal Maharaj), aged 83, passed away at Belur Math on 19th October 1978 at 5-30 p.m. due to cardio respiratory failure with bronchiectasis. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math since 1967.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Contai Ashrama in 1926 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1944. For two decades he was in-charge of Manasadwip, where he built up a High School. For his simple and austere sadhu life he was loved and respected by those who came in contact with him.
16th December 1978: Swami Kailashananda ji (Announced to the Public in January 1979)
Our beloved Vice-president Swami Kailashananda ji Maharaj entered Mahasamadhi at the Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on the 16th December 1978 at 2.10 a.m., after completing his 84th year. The Swami had been suffering from malignant ulcer in his intestines. For the past few months, he had been having haemorrhage, for which he was sent to Seva Pratishthan Hospital. Through expert treatment there for some weeks, he showed improvement, but then his vitality started to decline rapidly, and the end came rather quickly.
Known in his pre-monastic days as Sri Sailesh Chandra Banerji, the Swami was born in East Bengal (now Bangladesh) in the year 1894, most probably in the month of November. For some time he worked as a lecturer in the Dhaka University. He was deeply devoted to Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj (Mahapurush Maharaj) and was initiated by him at Dhaka in 1922. He joined the Ramakrishna Order as a monastic member in November 1929, and in the following year (1930), on the Kali Puja day, he received sannyasa from Mahapurush Maharaj.
The Swami served Mahapurush Maharaj as his personal attendant until February 1934. Shortly after the passing away of Mahapurush Maharaj, Swami Kailashananda ji served Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, then President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, as his Private Secretary, for about six months. During the next two years (Nov. 1934 to Nov. 1936), the Swami worked at the Belur Math Headquarters as a Member of the Working Committee. For about eight years thereafter, (Nov. 1936 to Sept. 1944), the Swami was the Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission centre at New Delhi. In October 1944, he was posted to Madras, as the President of the Ramakrishna Math there. He continued in this post for a period of nearly 27 years (till June 1971) during which the multifarious humanitarian activities of the Madras centre registered remarkable progress. In addition he had to look after several educational institutions in Madras, as their President.
In 1961, while in Madras, the Swami was elected a Member of the Board of Trustees of the Ramakrishna Math and of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission. In June 1971, he was elected Treasurer of the Math and Mission, when the Swami came over to stay at the Belur Math Headquarters. In March 1975, he became Vice-president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, which position he held until the last.
Swami Kailashananda ji was well known for his regular habits, austere life, and meditative and devout personality. He has left behind a large number of disciples and devotees who cherish great love and regard for him. The Swami was a constant source of affection, solace and inspiration to all – young and old, lay and monastic – who came in touch with him.
24 December 1978 : Swami Samananda (Hiren) : Announced to the Public in January 1979
Swami Samananda (Hiren), aged 61, passed away suddenly at Saradapitha, Belur, on 24th December 1978 at 7-10 p.m. due to acute myocardial infarction. Though diabetic patient, he was working normally, and just before his passing away, when he was about to take weekly class for the devotees that evening, he succumbed to a massive heart attack.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Saradapitha, Belur, in 1945 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1954. He worked in different capacities at his joining centre, specially in the technical line, and continued there till the last. He was one of the Assistant Secretaries of the Saradapitha. Being simple and jovial by nature, he was loved by those who came in contact with him.
19 January 1979 : Swami Anantatmananda (Madhavan) : Announced to the Public in February 1979
Swami Anantatmananda (Madhavan), aged 63, passed away on 19th January morning at a Trivandrum hospital, where he was removed for special treatment for cerebral haemorrhage.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Kalady Advaita Ashrama in 1939 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1947. Besides his joining centre, he worked in the Industrial School at Belur, and at Trichur, Madras Math, Calicut, and Trivandrum centres in different capacities. He was appointed head of Trivandrum Ashrama in 1971 and continued as such till the last. Simple and amiable by nature he was loved by all.
18th February 1979: Swami Chitswarupananda (Bikash Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in March 1979)
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Chitswarupananda (Bikash Maharaj), aged 79, on 18th February 1979 at 10-05 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, due to cardio respiratory arrest with prostate trouble for which he was admitted there for treatment about a month ago.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Patna Ashrama in 1922 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1926. Since then he had been serving as ‘Bhandari’ at Belur Math for about four decades, till his retirement. He was regular in his habits and led an austere life. He was fond of growing flowers and took active part in Arati and Bhajans. He was loved and respected by all.
13 March 1979 : Swami Bhapanananda ji : Announced to the Public in April 1979
Swami Bhavanananda ji, aged 91, passed away on 13th March 1979 at 9-40 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, due to cardiac asthma. He had been staying in Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math as a retired monk and was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment on the 8th last.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Kankhal Sevashrama in 1916 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1921. Besides being the head of Tamluk, Gadadhar Ashrama (Calcutta), and Katihar Centres, he served the Sangha in different capacities at Sonargaon, Sargachhi and Belur Math. He actively participated in many relief and rehabilitation schemes undertaken by the Mission. For his simple and austere Sadhu life he was loved and respected by all.
23 April 1979 : Swami Kamalananda (Govinda Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1979
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Kamalananda (Govinda Maharaj) aged 73, on 23d April 1979, at 4-05 p.m., at the Ranchi Sanatorium, due to advanced Parkinson’s Disease with complications.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Chandipur Ashrama in 1926 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1937. Apart from the joining centre, he worked at Belur Math, Rangoon Sevashrama, Rahara, and Ranchi Sanatorium. For the past few years he had been leading a retired life at the Sanatorium. For his simple life and amiable nature, he was loved by all.
23rd July 1979 : Swami Kritananda (Bhaskar) : Announced to the Public in August 1979
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Kritananda (Bhaskar), aged 66, on 23rd July 1979, at 2-45 a.m., in a Nursing Home at Trivandrum, due to brain stem injury followed by intra cerebral hemorrhage. For some time he had been suffering from high blood pressure. On the 26th June he had a fall and became unconscious at Tiruvalla Ashrama. He was taken to our Trivandrum Hospital next morning. As his condition showed no improvement, on 29th June, he was removed to Sri Chitra Tirunal Medical Centre's Intensive Care ward at Trivandrum. He was operated upon on 7th July for removal of a blood clot in the brain. Though he showed slight improvement, his condition deteriorated on the 22nd July.
The Swami joined the Order at Vishakhapatnam Ashrama in 1943 and had sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1953. Apart from the joining Centre, he worked at Mauritius and Kalady centres. At Mauritius, he was head of the Centre for about two decades.
1st August 1979 : Swami Chitsukhananda (Paritosh) : Announced to the Public in September 1979
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Chitsukhananda (Paritosh), aged 58, on 1st August 1979 at 11-10 p.m. at the Arogya Bhavan of Belur Math, due to myocardial infarction. He had been suffering from metastatic adeno carcinoma for the last few months, and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan for treatment. After operation and follow-up treatment, he was released from there to take rest at the Belur Math.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Gadadhar Ashrama, Calcutta, in 1950 and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1959. Besides being the head of Faridpur Centre (in Bangladesh) for some time and in-charge of the Balaram Mandir for about three years, he worked in Ranchi (Morabadi), Bombay, Varanasi Sevashrama, Patna, and Belur Math in different capacities. He served Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj as his Private Secretary for about six and a half years.
Simple and jovial by nature, he was much loved by those who came in contact with him.
28th October 1979 : Swami Sarvatitananda (Kailasam) : Announced to the Public in November 1979
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Sarvatitananda (Kailasam), aged 67, at Batticaloa (Sri Lanka) in the morning of 28th October 1979. He was hospitalized at Batticaloa on 8th October with symptoms of swelling in the body, loss of appetite, and non-retention of food taken. On 13th October, the doctor discovered gangrene in his intestines and operated upon him same day successfully. However, his condition grew worse from the 17th onwards and, in spite of the best treatment, the end came eleven days later.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Colombo centre in 1935, and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1945. Besides the joining centre, the Swami worked in Belur Math and Nattarampalli, and also at Batticaloa and Kataragama -- sub-centres of Colombo. At Kataragama sub-centre he stayed for more than two decades till it was taken over by the local Government in 1976. For his simple and jovial nature he was loved and respected by many.
30th October 1979 : Swami Tarakananda (Ashutosh Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1979
Swami Tarakananda (Ashutosh Maharaj), aged 76, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 30th October 1979 at 7.15 a.m. due to fibrocaseous pulmonary tuberculosis and prostate trouble. He was admitted there with enlarged prostate during May last for treatment. Towards the end he developed uraemia and, in spite of best medical care, expired peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Bankura Ashrama in 1922, and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1932. Apart from his joining centre, he worked at the Varanasi Sevashrama for many years, till he retired there a few years back. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved by all.
15th November 1979 : Swami Satprakashananda (Harish Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1979
Swami Satprakashananda (Harish Maharaj), aged 91, passed away at the Vedanta Society of Saint Louis, U.S.A., on 15th November 1979 at 3-38 a.m. (local time) due to heart failure. He had been in failing health for the past few years and the end came rather unexpectedly.
Born in April 1888 at Dhaka (Bangladesh), he had the good fortune to see Swami Vivekananda in person in 1901, while the latter was on a visit to Dhaka. Four years later he became associated with the Ramakrishna Mission at Dhaka and was greatly instrumental in building up this centre. He met Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1908 and was initiated by him. After completion of his postgraduate studies in Calcutta University, he joined the Order in 1924 at Dhaka. He had his Sannyasa in 1927 from Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj at Varanasi. He went to Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, in the Himalayas, and worked there for nearly 3 years as Associate Editor of Prabuddha Bharata. Thereafter he took charge of our Delhi branch, and worked as the head there for six years. In 1937, he was deputed to Vedanta work in the United States of America, where he initially stayed and lectured in Washington DC. and Providence, RI. He established a permanent Vedanta Society at Saint Louis, Missouri, in October 1938, where he remained as the Head of the Centre till the last.
The Swami was well versed in Sanskrit and scriptures, and his profound scholarship and depth of spiritual understanding enabled him to write several learned articles and also books such as ‘Ethics and religion’ ‘Methods of Knowledge’, Meditation : Its process, Practice, and Culmination’ and 'Sri Ramakrishna’s Life and Message in the Present Age’, etc.
The Swami was full of love and blessings towards all those who came in contact with him and he was deeply adored and respected by a large number of devotees and friends, many of whom in the USA became his initiated disciples.
6th December 1979 : Swami Hridananda (Sarat) : Announced to the Public in January 1980
Swami Hridananda (Sarat), aged 57, passed away at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on the 6th December 1979 at 5.25 a.m. due to chronic renal failure. He was suffering from heart trouble for the last few months and was undergoing treatment at the Seva Pratishthan and the end came rather suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Taki Ashrama in 1942, and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1957. Besides the joining Centre, the Swami worked at Asansol, Patna, Vrindaban, and Udbodhan (Mother’s House) centres. For his amiable nature he was loved by those who came in contact with him.
12th December 1979 : Swami Vagalananda (Srish Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 1980
Swami Vagalananda (Srish Maharaj), aged 77, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 12th December at 2-10 p.m. due to cerebral thrombosis with severe broncho-pulmonary infection. For quite some time he was suffering from various old-age ailments and was being treated at Seva Pratishthan and the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Belur Math in 1922, and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1928. Besides being the head of Almora, Jalpaiguri, Jamtara, Kamarpukur, Malda, and Shyamla Tal Centres, he worked at Madras Math as well. The Swami being simple and kind hearted, was loved and respected by all.
20th December 1979 : Swami Satyatmananda (Sailen Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 1980
Swami Satyatmananda (Sailen Maharaj), aged 85, passed away at Varanasi Home of Service on 20th December 1979 at 10-50 a.m. due to general debility. For the last few years he had become invalid and was slowly sinking.
An initiated disciple of Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Allahabad in 1921 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1927. For over a decade he was the Sevak of Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj. Besides the joining Centre, he worked at Varanasi Sevashrama, Kankhal, Lucknow, and Kanpur centres. For his sweet and childlike nature, he was loved by all.
2nd April 1980 : Swami Dhiratmananda (Dwijen Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1980
Swami Dhiratmananda (Dwijen Maharaj), aged 81, passed away on 2nd April 1980, at 12-30 a.m. at the Varanasi Home of Service, due to urinary complications leading to uraemia. He had been admitted there with acute urinary infection in January last.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Belur Math in 1922 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1929. Besides being the head of Mymensing, Jamshedpur, Allahabad and Kanpur centres, he worked in Dhaka and Advaita Ashrama (Mayavati and Calcutta) in different capacities. He had been leading a retired life for about a decade at the Varanasi Sevashrama. For his simple and austere sadhu life, he was loved and respected by all.
19th April 1980 :Swami Ajneyananda (Debu) : Announced to the Public in May 1980
Swami Ajneyananda (Debu), aged 61, passed away suddenly at the Seva Pratishthan on 19th April 1980, at 4-40 p.m., due to cardiac arrest resulting from myocardial infarction. He had some heart trouble at the Math on 17th April, and was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment. He had suffered from heart and other complications a couple of years ago.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Patna Ashrama in 1952 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1961. Besides his joining centre, he worked in Rangoon Sevashrama, Swami Vivekananda Centenary office in Calcutta, and Singapore centre, from where he came back to Math in March 1979 and was resting under medical care. For his simple and amiable nature, he was loved by all.
5th June 1980 : Swami Dayananda ji (Bimal Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in July 1980)
Our respected and beloved Swami Dayananda ji (Bimal Maharaj), aged 88, passed away on 5th June 1980, at 1 p.m., at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, due to acute myocardial infarction. He had a heart attack that morning and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the Seva Pratishthan. The end came peacefully. He had been keeping indifferent health for the last few months.
Born of noble-hearted parents in a well-off family of Baganchra (Nadia), the Swami possessed the great qualities necessary for leading the higher ideal of life. He was the younger brother of Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj, the ninth President of our Order. When about to complete his studies in M.Sc., he renounced the world and joined the Ramakrishna Order.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined at Udbodhan (Baghbazar Math) in 1915 and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1921. He had the rare privilege of serving the Holy Mother while at Udbodhan. He was posted to Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, in 1921 and worked there till he was sent to San Francisco, USA, in 1926. He took charge of that centre in April 1929 and continued as such till the beginning of August 1931. While in the United States, he visited some of the maternity and child welfare centres there and was much impressed by the welfare activities conducted in a scientific manner. He returned to India in 1932, with the intention of establishing such a centre for the welfare of the poor mothers and children of our country. On his way back, he visited some of the European countries including Russia, and he was glad to see the maternity and child welfare centres in some of those countries.
In July 1932, he founded the ‘Sishu Mangal Pratishthan’ – a maternity and child welfare clinic – in a rented house in South Calcutta, which in the course of years shifted to its own land and buildings, and gradually grew into a full-fledged general hospital called ‘Seva Pratishthan’. He continued as the Secretary of Seva Pratishthan till 1963, after which he became one of the Vice-presidents of its Managing Committee. He continued as such till the end. He was electedMi Trustees of the Math and a member of the Governing Body of the Mission in March 1947. Under his able care and guidance, the Seva Pratishthan has become what it is today – a true and tangible memorial of Swami Dayananda ji’s spirit of selfless service and sacrifice for the good and happiness of all humanity. His exquisite gentleness, love, and amiability endeared him to all and evoked their deepest affection and regard for him.
19th June 1980 :Swami Siddhatmananda (Hiren Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in July 1980
Swami Siddhatmananda (Hiren Maharaj), Head of our Singapore centre, aged 76, passed away on 19th June 1980 at 1-10 p.m. (Singapore time) in a hospital there, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit on 12th June with heavy breathing, swelling of the legs, and diarrhoea. Under oxygen and drips and medication, he showed some improvement in the beginning. But the end came unexpectedly, consequent to renal failure, diabetes mellitus, nasal bleeding and congestive heart failure.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined Belur Math in 1924, and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1930. Besides being the head of Colombo and Singapore centres, He served the organization in different capacities at Rangoon Sevashrama and Society, Advaita Ashrama (Mayavati and Calcutta), Madras Students’ Home, and Belur Math on different occasions. He took charge of Singapore centre in October 1959, and continued as such till the last. For his simple and lovable nature, he was liked and respected by all those who came in contact with him.
5th September 1980 : Swami Annadananda (Mani Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in October 1980)
Swami Annadananda (Mani Maharaj), aged 84, passed away at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 5th September 1980 at 7-25 a.m. due to cerebro-vascular accident. For some time he was not keeping well, due to advancing age and weakness. He was admitted to Seva Pratishthan on the 3rd last. He had been leading a retired life at the Math for the past few years.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Sargachhi Ashrama in 1919, and had sannyasa from his Guru in 1936. Besides being the head of Contai and Tamluk centres, he worked at Karachi, Vrindaban, Bhubaneswar and Midnapore centres in different capacities. He had the rare opportunity to serve his Guru at the Sargachhi Ashrama for long 20 years. He was simple and amiable by nature.
19th September 1980 : Swami Sukhadananda (Barda Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in October 1980
Swami Sukhadananda (Barada Maharaj), aged 80, passed away at Sargachhi Ashrama on 19th September 1980 at 3-30 p.m. due to old-age ailments. He had been leading a retired life there for the last 7 years.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Habiganj Ashrama in 1932 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. He worked as the Head of Sargachhi Centre for over three decades from January 1943 till November, 1973. He was loved by all for his simple and austere sadhu life.
25th September 1980 :Swami Vividishananda (Dwijen Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in October 1980
Swami Vividishananda (Dwijen Maharaj), aged 87, passed away at Seattle (USA) on 25th September 1980 at 12-15 a.m. (local time), due to stroke. For quite a long time he had been in a state of deep coma.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Bhubaneswar Math in 1919, and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1923. Besides his joining Centre, he worked at Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, as the editor of the Prabuddha Bharata, also at Rajkot, and was the head of San Francisco centre for a short time. He was the founder head of Seattle centre and had been staying there since 1938. He continued as the head of the centre till the last. The Swami was the author of some books. He visited Honolulu in Hawaii and inspired many Vedanta devotees there. He was loved by many for his simple nature.
24th November 1980: Swami Nityamuktananda (Manik Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1980
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Nityamuktananda (Manik Maharaj), aged 81, at the Varanasi Home of Service on 24th November 1980 at 10-45 a.m. due to respiratory failure. He had been suffering from chronic bronchitis and heart-failure. On the 22nd last, he was admitted to the Sevashrama with respiratory infection to which he ultimately succumbed.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Patna Ashrama in 1927 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1933. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Dhaka, Kankhal, Vrindaban, Rajkot, Allahabad and Varanasi Sevashrama. He also did Tapasya on different occasions, staying at Swargashrama, Uttarkashi and Narmada. For many years he had been leading a retired life at the Varanasi Home of Service. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved by many.
9 December 1980: Swami Alokananda (Amulya Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 1981
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Alokananda (Amulya Maharaj), aged 77, at the Vrindaban Sevashrama on 9 December 1980 at 4-22 a.m. due to diabetic coma. He had been suffering from diabetes and occasionally from severe diarrhoea for the last few years.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1930, and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. Other than at the joining centre, he worked in Belur Math, Dhaka, New Delhi, Kankhal, Lucknow, Chandigarh and Vrindaban centres in different capacities. He had been leading a retired life at the Vrindaban Sevashrama for the last several years. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved by many.
17th January 1981 : Swami Advayananda (Ardhendu) : Announced to the Public in February 1981
Swami Advayananda (Ardhendu), aged 70, passed away on 17th January 1981 at 6-24 a.m. at the Seva Pratishthan due to cerebro-vascular accident with hyperglycemia coma. He had been suffering for the last few months at the Bankura Ashrama, from where he was admitted to Seva Pratishthan a few days ago. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1930 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. Besides being the Head of Kamarpukur and Bankura centres, he worked at Belur Math Industrial School, Madras Math, Udbodhan and Advaita Ashrama, Calcutta, in different capacities. Simple and austere in nature, he was loved by many.
18th January 1981 : Swami Shyamalananda (Hrishikesh) : Announced to the Public in February 1981
Swami Shyamalananda (Hrishikesh), aged 72, passed away on 18th January 1981 at 9-22 a.m. at the Seva Pratishthan due to diabetes mellitus with gangrene. He had been suffering for the last few years and was kept at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan, from where he was admitted to Seva Pratishthan on the 11th last. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Belur Math in 1939 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1948. He served the Sangha as Head of Dinajpur Ashrama, and worked in Cherrapunji, Sargachhi, Lucknow and Udbodhan Office, Calcutta. Being incapacitated in health, he had been leading a retired life at Belur Math for more than two decades. For his simple and amiable nature he was loved by all.
18th January 1981 : Swami Bodhaghanananda (Raghavan) : Announced to the Public in February 1981
Swami Bodhaghanananda (Raghavan), aged 75, passed away on 18th January 1981 at 4-50 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan due to cerebro-vascular accident with hepatic failure. He was admitted to Seva Pratishthan on the 16th last in an unconscious state and succumbed ultimately in spite of best medical care. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Madras Math in 1933 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. Besides his joining Centre, he worked at Ootacamund Ashrama. He had been in indifferent health for some years past and was leading a retired life at Belur Math. He was loved by all for his quiet, simple, and austere life.
13th February 1981 : Swami Niruktananda (Narayan) : Announced to the Public in March 1981
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Niruktananda (Narayan), aged 40, at the Seva Pratishthan on 13th February at 10-25 p.m. due to cardio-respiratory failure. He had been suffering from various ailments, with a damaged kidney, for the last one year, and passed away in spite of best medical care.
An initiated disciple of swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Madras Math in 1964, but as he contracted Tuberculosis in December 1965, he was sent home for treatment. After recovery, he rejoined at the Kanchipuram Ashrama in 1969. He had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1979. Besides his joining centres, he worked in Salem and Vrindaban Sevashrama. For his simple austere life, he was loved by many.
5th March 1981 : Swami Nirvikalpananda (Purnananda) : Announced to the Public in April 1981
Swami Nirvikalpananda (Purnananda), aged 66, passed away at the Rajahmundry Ashrama on 5th March 1981 at 12-10 p.m. due to carcinoma of the liver. He had been suffering from jaundice for some time. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Bhubaneswar Math in 1933 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1944. Besides being the Head of Rajahmundry centre, he worked at Vishakhapatnam, Baranagore, Contai, Madras Math, Puri and Belur Math. He was the Editor of ‘Sri Ramakrishna Prabha’, the Telugu Magazine of the Madras Math. For the past few years, he had been leading a retired life at Rajahmundry. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
12th March 1981 : Swami Aptananda (Anil) : Announced to the Public in April 1981
Swami Aptananda (Anil), aged 60, passed away at Belur Math on 12th March 1981 at 4 a.m. due to acute cardio-respiratory failure. He was quite active and leading a normal life till the day before his passing away. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1943, and had sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1953. Soon after joining, he was posted to Baranagore Ashrama, where he worked till November 1970. After that he came to Belur Math and had been looking after building construction and repair work till the last. For his simple, quiet and austere life, he was loved by all.
30th March 1981 : Swami Swanubhavananda (Gopal Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in April 1981
Swami Swanubhavananda (Gopal Maharaj), aged 77, passed away suddenly at the Ramharipur Ashrama on 30th March 1981 at 11-45 a.m. due to heart failure. He had come there to participate in the Sri Ramakrishna birthday celebration of the local Ashrama. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Sylhet Ashrama (now in Bangladesh) in 1921 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1932. He worked at Bankura, Ramharipur, Belur Math, Malda and Katihar. For the past several years he had been leading a retired life at the Katihar Ashrama. For his simple and amiable nature, he was loved by all those who came in contact with him.
30th April 1981 : Swami Dayaghanananda (Sanat Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1981
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Dayaghanananda (Sanat Maharaj), aged 72, at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 30th April 1981 at 1-55 p.m. due to cardio vascular accident with broncho-pneumonia. He had been suffering for the last several months and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan about a month back for treatment.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1932 at the Taki Ashrama, where he continued till the last. He had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji in 1943. He was the head of Taki center for more than three decades. For his simple life and amiable nature, he was loved by all.
4th July 1981 : Swami Bodhaswarupananda (Madhavan) : Announced to the Public in August 1981
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Bodhaswarupananda (Madhavan), aged 43, at Sri Chitra Medical Centre in Trivandrum on 4th July 1981 at 12-30 p.m. due to sudden cardiac arrest. He was admitted there on the same morning, and in spite of best medical care, the end came within a short time. He had been suffering from a heart condition, and was undergoing treatment at Madras and later at Trivandrum.
An initiated disciple of Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Madras Math in 1960 and had Sannyasa from Revered President Maharaj in 1969. Besides the joining centre, he worked at the Institute of Culture in Calcutta, and at Delhi, Trivandrum and Rajahmundry. He was known and appreciated for his hard-working nature and active habits.
25th October 1981 : Swami Padmananda (Srikanta) : Announced to the Public in November 1981
We are very sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Padmananda (Srikanta) aged 60, on the 25th October 1981 at 3-30 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan, due to acute myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest. A diabetic patient, he had been suffering from some ailments of stomach for the last several days at Belur Math, and was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment on the 23rd last.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Tamluk Ashrama in 1943 and had sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1953. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Belur Math, Kankhal and Kankurgachhi Yogodyan in different capacities. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
8th January 1982 : Swami Shantimayananda (Atma Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in February 1982 We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Shantimayananda (Atma Maharaj), aged 81, at the Seva Pratishthan on 8th January 1982 at 4-27 p.m. due to pneumonia and other complications. He had been ailing and undergoing treatment for about ten years past, hospitalized mostly at Seva Pratishthan, since he had had a stroke in April 1972 while working in the Headquarters office.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined at the Sylhet Ashrama in 1921 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1945. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Sargachhi, Narayanganj and Belur Math in different capacities. For his simple, calm and austere sadhu life, he was loved and respected by many.
3rd February 1982 : Swami Sanmatrananda (Shivadas) : Announced to the Public in March 1982
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Sanmatrananda (Shivadas), aged 76, at the Varanasi Home of Service on 3rd February 1982 at 5-15 a.m. due to cerebral ischaemia and other complications. He had been suffering for the last few months and was taken to the Hospital more than once, and lastly on 30th December 1981. For the last several years he had been leading a retired life at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Vrindaban Sevashrama in 1927 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji in 1944. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Varanasi, New Delhi, Kankhal, Saradapitha (Belur), Udbodhan (Calcutta), Deoghar, Shyamla Tal and Rajkot in different capacities. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
10th March 1982 : Swami Ambananda (Ashu Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in April 1982
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Ambananda (Ashu Maharaj), aged 83, at the Varanasi Home of Service, on 10th March 1982 at 9-15 p.m. due to old-age ailments. For the last one week he had developed difficulty in swallowing and respiratory infection, to which he ultimately succumbed.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Varanasi Sevashrama in 1930 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. For many years he worked in Varanasi Sevashrama, and during his later years, he had been leading a retired life at Kishanpur Ashrama. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
2nd July 1982: Swami Sthitananda (Tillainathan), Announced to the Public in August 1982
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Sthitananda (Tillainathan), aged 68, on 2nd July 1982, at a hospital in Singapore, due to cardio-respiratory failure. On June 16th last, he had a massive heart attack and was moved to the coronary care unit of the Singapore General Hospital. Noticing some improvement, the doctors moved him to the General Ward on 21st June, and a pacemaker was attached externally. Though best attention possible was being given, the condition deteriorated gradually and the end came peacefully on July 2nd.
A learned Tamil scholar, and proficient in Sanskrit and English, the Swami was quiet by nature. He was the Vice-president of the Ramakrishna Mission in Singapore and always listened with patience to any one who approached him with a problem. Dedicating all the years of his monastic life until the end to the work of the Mission at Singapore, he played a prominent part in the field of education.
An initiated disciple of Swami Yatiswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Singapore centre in 1945 and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1961. He continued in his joining centre till the last and worked there in different capacities. For his simple life and amiable nature, he was loved by all who came in contact with him.
29th August 1982 : Swami Rakananda (Rajaram) : Announced to the Public in October 1982
Swami Rakananda (Rajaram), aged 76, passed away at the Nagpur Math on the 29th August at 4 p.m. due to acute myocardial infarction and cardiopulmonary failure. He had been suffering from heart trouble for the last two years. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Nagpur centre in 1944 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. He was a scholar, writer and speaker and was one of the editors of the Marathi monthly ‘Jivan-Vikas’. Simple, amiable and jolly by nature, he was loved by all.
16th September 1982 : Swami Atmeswarananda (Gour) : Announced to the Public in October 1982
Swami Atmeswarananda (Gour), aged 72, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on the 16th September 1982 at 11-35 p.m. due to diabetes mellitus with Cerebro-vascular accident. He had been suffering for the last few years and was taken to Seva Pratishthan on 7th July 1982. From 1974 he had been leading a retired life at Belur Math. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Jayrambati in 1923 and had Sannyasa from Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1937. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Bagerhat (now in Bangladesh) and Ranchi Ashrama. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
25th October 1982 : Swami Srikantananda (Satish) : Announced to the Public in November 1982
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Srikantananda (Satish), aged 79, at the Seva Pratishthan on 25th October 1982 at 10-10 p.m. due to acute left ventricular failure with kochs lungs and UTI. He had been suffering from some ailments for the last few months and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan for treatment on 24th August last.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Varanasi Sevashrama in 1926, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1947. Besides the joining Centre, he worked in Kishanpur and Vrindaban and since 1946 in Belur Math Dispensary. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
15th November 1982 : Swami Virajatmananda (Anadi) : Announced to the Public in December 1982
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Virajatmananda (Anadi), aged 61, at the Kankhal Sevashrama on 15th November 1982 at 10-05 p.m. He had a massive heart attack about half an hour before and, in spite of immediate medical attention, the end came suddenly. He had been leading a retired life there on health grounds for the past few years. Of late he had not been keeping well.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Sargachhi Ashrama in 1942 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1950. He worked at Berhampur branch of Sargachhi, Kanpur, and Kankhal Sevashrama, and was Head of Jamtara Ashrama for some time. He was a Sevak of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, and also served Swami Premeshananda ji Maharaj for several years. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
20th December 1982 : Swami Kaleshananda (Biren) : Announced to the Public in January 1983
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Kaleshananda (Biren), aged 80, at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan on 20th December 1982 at 00-30 hours due to myocardial infarction. He had been leading a retired life for the last several years, first staying at the Ranchi Sanatorium, and then at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan since about one year.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Subodhananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Narayanganj Ashrama in 1924 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. Besides the joining centre, he worked in Bhubaneswar, Contai, Belur Math, Ranchi (Morabadi), Jamshedpur, Ranchi Sanatorium and Puri Math in different capacities. He was a Sevak of Swami Subodhananda ji Maharaj for several years. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
27th January 1983: Swami Chandikananda (Jiten Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in February 1983)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Chandikananda (Jiten Maharaj), aged 90, at Seva Pratishthan on 27th January 1983 at 2.15 a.m. due to Urinary Track Infection and Congestive Cardiac Failure. He had been suffering from various ailments for the last several months and was taken to Seva Pratishthan for treatment more than once.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined at Sargachhi Ashrama in 1918 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1931. Besides being the Head of Katihar Centre, he worked in Dhaka, Deoghar, Shella (under Cherrapunji), Saradapitha (Belur) and Shillong Ashrama. He was also engaged in preaching work at Sunamganj private Ashrama (now in Bangladesh) for about six years. He was a good ennger and composed many songs on Thakur, Ma and Swamiji both in Bengali and Khasi languages. He had been leading a retired life since 1961, staying at Belur Math. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
22nd March 1983 : Swami Swaprakashananda (Suren Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in April 1983
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Swaprakashananda (Suren Maharaj), aged 93, at the Varanasi Home of Service on 22nd March 1983 at midnight due to old-age ailments. He had been leading a retired life since long, staying at the Kishanpur Ashrama, and then at Varanasi Sevashrama from 1975.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Barisal Ashrama (now in Bangladesh) in 1912, and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1921. He worked in Madras Math, Kankhal and Belur Math for short periods. He spent most of his time in Tapasya at Uttarkashi and Kishanpur. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved and respected by all.
7th April 1983 : Swami Jnanatmananda (Sudhir Maharaj)) : Announced to the Public in May 1983
Swami Jnanatmananda (Sudhir Maharaj), aged 88, passed away at the Belur Math Arogya Bhavan on 7th April at 8 p.m. due to cardio-respiratory failure following chronic urinary-track infection. He had been suffering from various ailments for the last several months and was sent to Seva Pratishthan for treatment more than once.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1920, and had Sannyasa from Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1927. Besides being the head of Udbodhan, Deoghar, Patna, Dhaka and Barisal centres, he worked at Belur Math, Kankhal, Varanasi Sevashrama and a few other centres. He had been leading a retired life for over a decade, first staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama and then at Belur Math since April 1977. He came in contact with most of the direct disciples and was loved and respected by many.
29th April 1983 : Swami Anuragananda (Nanigopal) (Announced to the Public in May 1983)
Swami Anuragananda (Nanigopal), aged 50, passed away unexpectedly at the Trivandrum Hospital on 29th April 1983 at 4.45 p.m. due to massive cerebral attack. He went to Ootacamund a few days back and performed special Puja in connection with the consecration ceremony of Sri Ramakrishna’s image there on 25th last. After this function he was travelling to Trichur and Kalady, en route to Trivandrum. He became sick on the way with fever, nausea, and severe headache. On reaching Kalady he felt worse and was admitted to the hospital at Ernakulam on the 28th. From there he was shifted the next day to our hospital at Trivandrum for better treatment and care. But in spite of best medical care, the end came quickly and peacefully that same after afternoon.
An initiated disciple of Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1953, and had Sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. He had the rare opportunity to serve his Guru since joining and till 1962. After that he was assigned the work of regular Puja in the main temple at Belur Math which he performed efficiently and admirably for about twenty-one years till the last. He was thoroughly proficient in doing other Pujas too and took much interest in flower gardening. Simple and hard-working by nature, he endeared himself to all. The Sangha has lost in him a sincere and energetic worker.
11th June 1983 : Swami Budhananda (Bhavani) : Announced to the Public in July 1983
Swami Budhananda (Bhavani), aged 66, passed away unexpectedly at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 11th June 1983 at 6 p.m. due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of hypertension, cerebral haemorrhage and diabetes. He came to Math from Delhi some days ago to see Revered President Maharaj who has not been doing well. On 6th June he felt unwell, with fever, and was taken to Seva Pratishthan next day. His condition gradually grew worse, and in spite of best medical care, the end came suddenly.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Madras Math in 1944, and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1954. Besides being the head of Chandigarh, Mayavati and New Delhi centres, he worked in other capacities for fifteen years at his joining centre. In 1959 he was sent to United States, where he worked at New York (Ramakrishna Vivekananda Centre), San Francisco and Hollywood centres as Assistant Minister till 1966. He was Editor of Vedanta Kesari and later of Prabuddha Bharata for several years. He was a good speaker and a forceful writer. He wrote several articles and some books in English and Bengali. To mention some of his more important works: The Mind and Its Control, Can One be Scientific and yet Spiritual, The Challenge of Religion, and The Ramakrishna Movement : Its Meaning for Mankind.
Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all. The Sangha has lost in him an erudite thinker, a sincere worker, and a thoroughly meticulous monk of exceptional qualities.
14th June 1983: Swami Adidevananda (Venkatapathi) (Announced to the Public in July 1983)
Swami Adidevananda (Venkatapathi), aged 71, passed away at Bangalore Ashrama on 14th June 1983 at 9.02 a.m. due to uremia. He had been suffering from cardiac asthma and various other ailments since October last, and was hospitalized more than once at Bangalore. Towards the end he was staying at the Ashrama under expert medical care.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Madras Math in 1934 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. Besides being the head of Vishakhapatnam, Mangalore and Bangalore centres, he worked at Varanasi Sevashrama and as Manager of Madras Math on two occasions. He was elected a Trustee of the Math and a Member of the Governing Body of the Mission in December 1965, and was appointed Treasurer at the Headquarters, in which post he continued till 1970. The Mangalore centre, with an orphanage and charitable dispensary, flourished under him during his 17 years’ stay there as the head. With his profound knowledge of and keen interest in Vedanta scriptures, particularly Vishishtadvaita religion and philosophy, he has made a valuable and substantial contribution to modern religious literature by translating several Sanskrit works, big and small, into English and Kannada, some of the important ones being the major Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, also a portion of Sri Bhashya, Gita Bhashya of Ramanuja, Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and Panchadashi.
For his depth of scholarship and active habits, and his affection and consideration for all, he was much loved and respected. The Order has incurred a great loss by the passing away of an efficient and well-versed senior monk of varied interests.
26th June 1983 : Swami Madhuryananda (Nalini) : Announced to the Public in July 1983
Swami Madhuryananda (Nalini), aged 83, passed away at Vrindaban on 26th June 1983 at 8-30 p.m. due to massive heart attack. He had being leading a retired life there for the past several years, and was maintaining tolerably good health even in his advanced age. On the last day, he took his usual breakfast and lunch, rested well at noon, and went for a short walk in the verandah with his sevak in the afternoon. Then he drank some water and went to bed for rest, but did not wake up any more. The end came peacefully in sleep.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Baranagore Ashrama in 1934, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1944. Besides the joining Centre, he worked at Math from 1937 for ten years and then at Vrindaban since 1947 where, after retiring, he stayed on until the end. He was a qualified homeopath and participated in some relief works. In his later life he had eye trouble which gradually increased and finally resulted in loss of eyesight. Notwithstanding this disability, the Swami lived quietly and patiently at the centre, managing to walk confidently, without help, for his bath, meals etc., and for some years even attended to outdoor patients at the homeopathy department. For his simple sadhu life, he was loved and admired by many.
7th September 1983 : Swami Raghuvarananda (Ramprasad Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in October 1983
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Raghuvarananda (Ramprasad Maharaj), aged 88, at the Varanasi Home of Service on 7th September 1983 at 11-45 a.m. due to respiratory failure following hemiplegia. He was admitted there on 9th August last with malaria (P. Vivax) fever from which he was recovering, but later he developed some complications resulting in both-sided hemiplegia, most likely due to cerebro-vascular accident. The end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Varanasi Sevashrama in 1917 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1928. Besides being the Head of Kankhal Sevashrama, he worked at Belur Math, Kalimpong, Seva Pratishthan (then Sishumangal), and Lucknow Sevashrama in different capacities. Since joining he continued at Varanasi Sevashrama attending to various types of hospital work up to 1937, and then as a retired monk lived there from 1965 to the end. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
15th October 1983: Swami Shuddhatmananda (Devesh Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in November 1983)
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Shuddhatmananda (Devesh Maharaj), aged 88, at Digboi (Assam) on 15th October 1983 at 4.30 a.m., due to cerebro-vascular accident. He was admitted to the local hospital on 12th last and, in spite of the best medical care available there, the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at the Sylhet Ashrama in 1919 and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1929. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Dhaka and Karimganj centres in different capacities. He had been leading a retired life for about three decades, staying at the Ramakrishna Sevashrama, Digboi – a private centre in Upper Assam – where he used to have religious discourses for and later on conversations with the devotees coming to the Sevashrama. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved and respected by all.
31st October 1983 : Swami Chitprakashananda (Tarini Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1983
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Chitprakashananda (Tarini Maharaj), aged 94, at the Varanasi Home of Service on 31st October 1983 at 7 a.m., due to old-age ailments. For the last one year he was almost bed-ridden due to general debility, and had developed hiccups and difficulty in swallowing two days before the end.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1913 and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1923. Besides Belur Math, he worked at Dhaka Ashrama in different capacities up to 1924. Since then he was engaged in Tapasya staying in different places in Varanasi till 1956, after which he had been leading a retired life at the Home of Service there. For his austere sadhu life and amiable nature, he was loved and respected by all.
3rd December 1983: Swami Vishwadevananda (Rajani) : Announced to the Public in January 1984
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Vishwadevananda (Rajani) aged 78, at the Seva Pratishthan on 3rd December last at 9-40 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. During the last few months, he had been suffering from various complications owing to diabetes at Midnapore Ashrama, from where he was brought and admitted to the Seva Pratishthan for treatment in July last.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined Order at Contai Ashrama in 1925, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. Besides being the Head of Garbeta Ashrama, he worked at Lucknow, Almora, Saradapitha (Belur) and Midnapore in different capacities. Simple and amiably by nature, he was loved by many.
2nd January 1984: Swami Hitananda (Hiranmay) (Announced to the Public in February 1984)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Hitananda (Hiranmay) , aged 80, at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 2nd January 1984 at 00.25 hours due to cerebro-vascular accident and other complications.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama in 1928 and had his Sannyasa from his Guru in 1933. Besides the joining centre, he worked at Madras and Delhi. Since 1948 he served as the chief priest (Pujari) of the Main Temple at Belur Math for more than 30 years. Besides working for some months as the Head of Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, then situated at Pathuriaghata, Calcutta, and since shifted to Narendrapur, 24-Parganas, he served his Guru as one of his attendants and also actively participated in several relief operations conducted by the Mission. For the past few years he was leading a quiet retired life, staying mostly at Belur Math, and was a constant source of inspiration to all who came in touch with him.
He had acquired profound knowledge of and experience in the details of ritualistic worship and ceremonies and many monastics would seek authoritative guidance and advice from him on these matters. Exceptionally sweet, genial, loving and kind-hearted, he was loved and respected by all. The Order has lost in him a devoted scholar, a sincere spiritual seeker and a dedicated worker.
6th March 1984 : Swami Punyavratananda (Kalyan) Announced to the Public in April 1984
Swami Punyavratananda( (Kalyan), aged 77, passed away suddenly at Belur Math on 6th March 1984 at 3.30 p.m., due to acute left ventricular failure. He had been leading a retired life, staying at the Math since 1955, and was maintaining fairly normal health. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Belur Math in 1926, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1950. Besides Belur Math, he worked in Faridpur (now in Bangladesh), Varanasi Sevashrama, Jamtara, Ranchi (Morabadi), Chandipur, Bankura and Contai Centres in different capacities. Simple and austere in habits, he was loved by many.
14th March 1984 : Swami Pratyayananda (Vibhuti) : Announced to the Public in April 1984
Swami Pratyayananda (Vibhuti) ,aged 61, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 14th March 1984 at 10-45 p.m. due to acute myocardial infarction in a case of ischaemic heart disease cum diabetes mellitus. He was admitted to Seva Pratishthan about 1st march for treatment. He had been leading a somewhat retired life at the Belur Math for the past two years. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1943 at Sonargaon Ashrama (now in Bangladesh) and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1960. He worked in Mymensingh (now in Bangladesh), Belur Math, Rahara, Katihar, Jamtara, Cossipore, Deoghar, Patna, Saradapitha (Belur) and Bankura centres in different capacities. He was a good singer and an accomplished Tabla player, and composed several Bhajans. For his amiable nature and musical talents, he was loved by many.
27th March 1984 : Swami Jivananda (Ganapati) : Announced to the Public in April 1984
Swami Jivananda (Ganapati) aged 65, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 27th March 1984 at 11-10 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. He had developed a wound under his right foot and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan where he underwent treatment for about two months. As he was a diabetic patient, the wound gradually turned to gangrene, requiring amputation of the leg at knee joint. Though he successfully survived the amputation and was responding consciously to queries, his general condition started to deteriorate and the end came peacefully. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1947, and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1956. Besides Deoghar where he was engaged mostly in teaching, he worked in the editorial department of Udbodhan, and was later a teacher of the Probationers’ Training Centre at Belur Math. He had been leading a retired life at the Math for the last several years. He was well versed in Sanskrit and composed many Sanskrit ‘Stotras’ on Sri Thakur, Sri Ma and Swamiji. Having a simple and amiable nature, he was loved by all for his unassuming sadhu life.
28th March 1984 : Swami Shubhrananda (Govindan) : Announced to the Public in April 1984
Swami Shubhrananda (Govindan), aged 83, passed away at Trivandrum Hospital on 28th March 1984 at 8-20 p.m. He was admitted to the Hospital on 18th last with symptoms of renal failure, but on examination it was found that there was a lump in his stomach, which burst later. An initiated disciple of Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at Tiruvalla Ashrama in 1923 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in the same year. Besides being Head of Tiruvalla and Palai Centres, he worked in Trivandrum, Bangalore, Alleppey and Trichur Ashramas. He had been leading a retired life at the Trivandrum for about 8 years past. For his simple and austere life, he was loved and respected by many.
6th April 1984 : Srimat Swami Nirvanananda ji (Surya Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1984
With deep sorrow we record the passing away of our Revered Vice-president Srimat Swami Nirvanananda ji Maharaj (Surya Maharaj), aged 94, at the Belur Math on 6th April 1984 at 1-08 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure from chronic cor pulmonale.
The Swami had been keeping tolerably well at the Math for the last few years, though he suffered occasionally from bronchial trouble and other old-age ailments. On 4th April midnight he developed breathing trouble, when oxygen was administered to him. The next (5th) morning his condition worsened, and so to give him relief, oxygen was again administered and was continued till the last. As it was difficult for him to lie down, he was helped to sit up on the bed with pillows as back rest, and he remained more or less in that position till midnight. A few spoons of fruit juice was all he was able to take after much insistence of his Sevaks. He was quite alert throughout the day, responding to queries of doctors and monks near him and was often looking intently at Thakur’s and Maharaj’s photographs on the wall of his bed room. In a low voice he had indicated in the morning that this was his last day of mundane existence. All who came to see him felt that he was quite prepared for this day. There was no sign of suffering visible on his face. About half hour past midnight (on 6th) he was given an injection and was requested by the doctors to lie down on his bed and rest, as he had been sitting for long hours, to which he agreed. Half and hour later, at about 1-05 a.m., he wanted to sit again. Soon after he sat up on the bed, he was seen taking a few deep breaths following which he entered into Mahasamadhi. The last rites started at 12 noon and the cremation was completed by 2 p.m., on the 6th April in the presence of a large number of monastics, devotees and friends.
Special Puja and Bhandara were held at the Math on the 17th April when about 6,500 devotees took Prasad. A well-attended memorial meeting, presided over by Swami Gahanananda, was held in the afternoon on the lawn to the east of the main temple.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Varanasi Sevashrama in 1912, and had Sannyasa from his guru in 1916. He had the rare opportunity to serve his Guru for many years. He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and a member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1929 and was also made the Treasurer of the twin organizations in 1946. He was appointed a Vice-president in February 1966, which office he held till the end. He was the Manager of the Belur Math for several years. He was also nominated a member of the Working Committee when it was first formed in 1926. He was the Head of Bhubaneswar centre for many years. He also conducted several relief works. He accompanied Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj to the United States in 1956, and visited our centres in that country as well as those in U .K., and France. On their return journey, they visited Geneva, Rome, Athens and Cairo.
His sad demise is an irreparable loss to the Organization and creates a void difficult to be filled up. The devotees lost in him a loving spiritual guide whose understanding, affection and sympathy were an invaluable asset to them. For his long and close association with Maharaj and many of the direct disciples, as also for his extraordinary spiritual life, and his loving ministration as Guru, he was deeply loved and respected by all.
12th April 1984 : Swami Sureswarananda (Bidhu Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1984
Swami Sureswarananda (Bidhu Maharaj), aged 81, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 12th April 1984 at 2-30 a.m. due to old-age ailments. He was a patient of chronic bronchitis and mild hypertension, and was bedridden for about nine months past due to general debility.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined at the Rangoon Sevashrama in 1925, and had Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. Besides Rangoon, he worked at Midnapore for a short period and then at Kankhal and Varanasi Sevashrama up to July 1959. Since then he had been leading a retired life at Varanasi Sevashrama until the end. Simple and amiable by nature he was loved by all.
25th June 1984 : Swami Videhananda (Gangacharan) : Announced to the Public in July 1984
Swami Videhananda (Gangacharan), aged 78, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 25th June 1984 at 6 a.m. due to cerebro-vascular accident with cardio-respiratory failure. He developed some complications a few days back, and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan on 23rd last in an unconscious state. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math for more than two decades.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Kankhal Sevashrama in 1927, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. He worked at a number of our Centres such as Ranchi (Morabadi), Contai, Bombay, Udbodhan, Delhi, Varanasi (Sevashrama), Rangoon, Jamtara, Kankurgachhi, Puri (Math) Shyamla Tal, Almora, Kamarpukur, Rajkot, and a few others. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by all.
11th July 1984 : Br. Dayachaitanya (Dipen) : Announced to the Public in August 1984
Brahmachari Dayachaitanya (Dipen), aged 35, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan, on 11th July 1984 at 7-10 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of spinal cord tumour with paraplegia. He had some spine trouble while at Katihar Ashrama, and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan for treatment about a year back. In spite of the best medical care, his condition had been gradually deteriorating, and the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, the Brahmachari joined the Order at the Katihar centre in 1974 and had Brahmacharya from his Guru in 1980. He served the Sangha by working sincerely at his joining Centre. He was loved by all for his simple nature and diligent work.
16th August 1984 : Swami Medhananda (Dinesh) : Announced to the Public in September 1984
Swami Medhananda (Dinesh of Ranchi Morabadi centre), aged 45, passed away at Kurji Holy Family Hospital, Patna, on 16th August 1984 at 11 a.m., due to cerebral malaria. He went to Patna Ashrama on 11th ultimo en route to attend a function at Chhapra the same day. On the way to Chhapra, he became indisposed with fever which persisted even after he returned to Patna Ashrama that night. Medical treatment continued for the next two days at Patna Ashrama, and on 14th August the doctors diagnosed the case as cerebral malaria, and treatment was started accordingly. But as Medhananda’s condition grew worse on 15th morning, he was hospitalized at Patna and admitted into intensive care unit. In spite of the best medical care, he passed away unexpectedly but peacefully the following forenoon.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Saradapitha, Belur, in 1964, and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1974. He continued in his joining centre till 1977, and then was posted to Ranchi (Morabadi). He was a sincere, efficient and dedicated worker, and was loved and appreciated by all for his sweet and amiable nature and obliging behavior.
20th August 1984 : Swami Nilkanthananda (Krishnan) : Announced to the Public in September 1984
Swami Nilakanthananda (Krishnan), aged 71, passed away at Trichur Ashrama on 20th August 1984 at 11-45 p.m., due to acute myocardial infarction. He had a mild stroke on 8th August and was being treated by Ashrama doctor and a specialist. There was some improvement, but suddenly at 11-30 p.m. on 20th night he had a massive heart attack to which he soon succumbed.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Alleppey Ashrama in 1934, and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1943. Besides his joining centre, he worked in different capacities at Salem, Calicut, Tiruvalla and Belur Math. In 1943 he was posted to Trichur where he continued till the last. For his steady Sadhu life, simple habits, wonderful service and Sanskrit erudition he was loved and respected by many.
12th September 1984 : Swami Shravanananda (Gaurgopal) : Announced to the Public in October 1984
Swami Shravanananda (Gaurgopal), aged 55, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 12th September 1984 at 5-10 a.m. due to diabetes mellitus with kidney failure. He had been suffering from diabetes since long and been admitted to Seva Pratishthan for treatment more than once, the last time on 17-8-84.
An initiated disciple of Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Sargachhi Ashrama in 1951, and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1961. He stayed mostly at the Berhampore sub-centre of the said Ashrama, looking after the Students’ Home and Library there. Simple and amiable by nature, he was loved by many.
15th September 1984 : Swami Dhyanananda (Manindra) : Announced to the Public in October 1984
Swami Dhyanananda (Manindra), aged 66, was found drowned and dead in tragic circumstances on the right bank of the Ganges near a Ghat in Belur on 15th September 1984 morning. His dead body was brought to and cremated at the Math. He had been suffering from various physical ailments for which he was regularly taking medicines and diet. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math for the last two years, occupying himself with some literary work.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Organization at its Delhi centre in 1947, and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1956. Besides New Delhi, he worked in Vrindaban, Belur Math, Seva Pratishthan, Institute of Culture and Baghbazar Math in different capacities. He was Joint Editor of the 'Udbodhan' for about eight years from 1974 to 1982. He also served at the Headquarters office for about one and a half years from February 1965. An erudite scholar in Sanskrit, the Swami was well versed in Ramakrishna Vivekananda and Vedanta literature. He was loved and respected for his simple and austere sadhu life and for his scholarship and literary abilities.
26 November 1984 : Swami Parishuddhananda (Narottam) : Announced to the Public in December 1984
Swami Parishuddhananda (Narottam), aged 81, passed away at the Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math, on 26 November 1984 at 2.35 p.m. due to cardio-respiratory failure with chronic bronchitis, severe multiple arthritis and anaemia. He was feeling well and cheerful till about 9 a.m. that morning, after which he had pain in his chest. Doctors immediately attended to him and did everything possible. As his condition deteriorated, he could not be removed to Seva Pratishthan, and in spite of best medical care the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Subodhananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Dhaka in 1925 and had Brahmacharya and Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1929 and 1931 respectfully. Besides Dhaka, he worked in our Centres at Delhi, Kankhal, Varanasi Advaita Ashrama, Baliati and Sonargaon (both in Bangladesh), Kankurgachhi and some others. He was leading a retired life at Belur Math from July 1979. For his simple and austere life and amiable nature, he was loved by all.
26 November 1984 : Swami Nirmayananda (Vibhuti) : Announced to the Public in December 1984
Swami Nirmayananda (Vibhuti), aged 73, passed away at the Nanavati Hospital, Bombay, on 26th November 1984 at 8-35 p.m. due to acute pulmonary oedema. He had gone to Bombay on 20th ultimo for participating in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of our centre there. He became seriously ill with high fever the same evening and was admitted to our hospital there. On 22nd November his condition became more serious, with other complications, and he was removed to the intensive cardiac care unit of Nanavati Hospital in Bombay. Later an external pacemaker was administered. Though he showed signs of improvement, his condition continued to be serious. Before the end came, he experienced much difficulty in breathing.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1938 and had Brahmacharya and Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942 and 1946 respectively. During his student life he had the good fortune of coming into close contact with Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj as his personal attendant. Besides the joining Centre he worked at Belur Vidyamandira (Saradapitha), and was the Head of Manasadwip, Cherrapunji, Asansol, Kankurgachhi, Bombay and Baghbazar Math Centres. He worked as editor of ‘Udbodhan’ from 1956 to 1964 and was formally holding the position of Editor from July 1981, in addition to being the President of Ramakrishna Math (Holy Mother’s House), Baghbazar, Calcutta, till the end. He was a good writer, speaker, and scholar, with deep knowledge of the scriptures and a flair for poetry and literature. He contributed many articles to various journals. He edited the ten volumes of “Swami Vivekanander Bani o Rachana”, and wrote three books in Bengali, namely, “Chhotader Vivekananda”, ”Sri Sri Ma Sarada” and “Swami Akhandanander Smritisanchay”.
In his death the Order has lost a very good Sadhu, endowed with many excellent qualities and abilities. For his serene and unassuming disposition and his loving, gentle and genial nature he was loved and respected by all.
12 December 1984 : Swami Yadavananda (Srinath) : Announced to the Public in January 1985
Swami Yadavananda (Srinath), aged 62, passed away at the Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math, on 12th December 1984 at 11-30 a.m., due to acute heart (left ventricular) failure. For the last few years he had been suffering from various ailments, and was admitted more than once to Seva Pratishthan for treatment.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Sargachhi Ashrama in 1953 and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1973. Besides the joining Centre, he worked in Bankura, Udbodhan, Puri (Math and Mission) Contai and Gadadhar Centres. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math for about three years past. He was loved by many for his simple sadhu life.
13 March 1985 : Srimat Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj : Announced to the Public in April 1985
The passing away of our President, Srimat Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj at the Belur Math at 3-17 p.m., on Wednesday, the 13th March 1985 was intimated through a special Announced to the Public in with a heavy heart to all our centres.
During the last two years he had attack of laryngeal carcinoma for which he was given radiation twice and was declared cured of the disease by the specialists under whose treatment and care he was. Since the middle of February last he did not feel well and began experiencing much weakness and physical exhaustion and difficulty in swallowing food. He had two bouts of fever with rigor, fluctuating temperatures and a high pulse rate. The cause could not be diagnosed but he responded to treatment. He was under treatment of an experienced medical team of doctors and experts from Seva Pratishthan. On the 13th Morning, the day of his passing away, he was feeling some what better, but shortly after noon his condition grew serious with greater difficulty in breathing. At about 2-30 p.m. he insisted to sit up and he was propped up on the bed. He sprinkled Ganges water on his head and mouth and took charanamrita with great satisfaction. Then he raised his hands up to the forehead and made Pranams to Sri Thakur, Ma, Swamiji, and Maharajji, mentioning their names. Afterwards he was, with his permission, turned towards his left side. About 3 p.m., he appeared completely indrawn, with slow hard breathing. Gradually he appeared restful and finally entered into Mahasamadhi at 3-17 p.m. He was 93.
Special Puja and Bhandara were held at the Math on 25th March when Prasad was handed out to about 60,000 devotees. A largely attended memorial meeting, presided over by Swami Bhuteshananda ji, was held in the afternoon in a well-decorated pandal on the lawn to the east of the Main temple.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Madras Math in 1916, and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1920. He had the rare opportunity to come into close contact with most of the direct disciples. He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and a member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission in 1929. He was also the President of the Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, from 1927 to 1937. He was appointed Assistant Secretary of the twin organizations from 1938 to 1949, and again from 1951 to 1961. In the absence of the then General Secretary, Swami Madhavananda ji who was on leave, he was appointed General Secretary for two years from April 1949 to March 1951, and again from May 1961 till his becoming President in February 1966, which office he held till the end. He also conducted several relief works, and was very much interested in integrated rural development work for the uplift of the common masses.
The Swami was a deep scholar with profound knowledge in various branches of knowledge. He had to his credit besides occasional writings, the English translations, with his own lucid notes, of Brahma Sutras based on Shankara’s commentary, the Bhagavad Gita with the gloss of Sridhara Swami and part of Brahma Sutras based on Ramanuja’s commentary.
His sad demise is an irreparable loss to the Organization and creates a void difficult to be filled up. The devotees lost in him a loving spiritual guide whose understanding, affection and sympathy were an invaluable asset to them. For his long and close association with most of the direct disciples, as also for his extraordinary spiritual life, and his loving ministration as Guru, he was deeply loved and respected by all.
10 May 1985 : Swami Stavyananda (Sukhamoy) : Announced to the Public in June 1985
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Stavyananda (Sukhamoy), aged 64, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 10th May 1985 at 3-10 p.m., due to acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis “c” emphysema. He had been experiencing breathing difficulty now and then because of his asthmatic troubles. He felt very unwell, and was admitted to Seva Pratishthan for treatment. His condition grew worse and in spite of best medical care the end came peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined our Asansol Ashrama in 1946 and had his sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in the year 1957. Besides his joining Centre he worked in Gadadhar Ashrama, Sargachhi, Bankura and in Belur Math where he looked after the vegetable garden for many years. He was living a retired life at Math from 1978. He was simple and jovial by nature and led an austere sadhu life.
12 May 1985 : Swami Vyomakeshananda (Warriar) : Announced to the Public in June 1985
Swami Vyomakeshananda (Warriar) passed away at our Trichur Ashrama on 12th May 1985 at 6-45 p.m., at the age of 77, due to cardio-respiratory failure. He was practically bed-ridden for the last four years because of his suffering from various ailments. Though best medical treatment was given all these years his health condition was poor all through. The end was very peaceful. He was an initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj. He joined the Order at Belur Math in the year 1932 and had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1944. Apart from his joining Centre he rendered valuable services in educational activities in our centres at Trichur, Cherrapunji and Palai. He was the head of Tiruvalla Centre for sometime. From 1981 onwards he had been leading a retired life. Being always cheerful, contended and considerate the Swami bore his physical pains and sufferings during the last days with fortitude and patience.
13 May 1985 : Swami Mukundananda (Sashadhar Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in June 1985
Swami Mukundananda (Sashadhar Maharaj) passed away at the Ramakrishna Mission Home of service, Varanasi, on 13th May 1985, at 9-40 p.m., at the ripe old age of 90, owing to cardio-respiratory failure. He was staying at our Varanasi Advaita Ashrama and on 3rd May 1985 he was admitted to the Sevashrama for treatment for intra-capsular fracture of the neck of left femur sustained the same morning due to a fall. Four days before his passing away he developed an ulcer in the throat and stopped taking solid food. In spite of best medical treatment the end came suddenly. The Swami was blessed with initiation by the Holy Mother. He joined the Order in 1917 at the Varanasi Home of Service (Sevashrama) and had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in the year 1923. During first four years of his stay at Varanasi he mainly served Srimat Swami Turiyananda ji Maharaj apart from doing other duties. Since he hailed from a traditional family of priests he was well versed in Puja, Sanskrit study, etc. He did Puja of Sri Ramakrishna at Belur Math for about 12 years. He also served at Jamtara, Bankura, Almora and Jamshedpur Centres. He had been leading a retired life from 1972 onwards staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. In his passing away we lose a very elderly sadhu of simple habits and sweet nature.
23rd May 1985 : Swami Turiyatmananda (Panditji) : Announced to the Public in June 1985
Swami Turiyatmananda (Panditji), aged 87, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 23rd May 1985 at 12-25 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure following cerebro-vascular accident. He had been bedridden and his bodily movements were restricted for a long time owing to various old-age ailments before being admitted to the hospital. In spite of contact and best medical treatment his health condition turned critical during the last few days from which he never recovered. He had his initiation from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in the year 1926. He joined at Madras Math the same year and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1933. Besides working for about 27 years in his joining Centre, he rendered services in our Centres at Ootacamund and Deoghar and was the Head of Nattarampalli Centre for 7 years. He was known for his scholarship in Sanskrit and many monastics studied scriptures under him. He had been leading a retired life from 1973 staying at Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math. He led a simple and austere life.
4th June 1985 : Swami Shamananda (Bhuban) : Announced to the Public in July 1985
Swami Shamananda (Bhuban), aged 87, passed away on 4th June 1985 at 1-50 p.m., at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, due to acute Myocardial Infarction with cardiogenic shock. He had been suffering from various old-age ailments. He was admitted to the Hospital during the end of May last for treatment for swelling in his legs. He was provided with best medical care but the end was sudden and without any prolonged suffering. He was quite conscious till his last. The Swami joined the Order at our Habiganj Centre (now in Bangladesh) in 1922. Initiated by his traditional Kulaguru he had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1929. Besides his joining Centre he worked in Baranagore, Rajkot, Midnapore, Kankurgachhi and Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. He led a retired life from 1971 and was staying at Belur Math. He was known for his quiet and austere sadhu life.
12th June 1985 : Swami Ashutoshananda (Batakrishna) : Announced to the Public in July 1985
Swami Ashutoshananda (Batakrishna), aged 78, passed away at our Varanasi Home of Service on 12th June 1985 at 3-55 p.m. He was admitted to the Hospital on 2nd June for an operation of right inguinal hernia. He was successfully operated upon, but during the post-operation days his health condition registered deterioration. In spite of best medical aid the end came peacefully. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1927 at Dhaka Centre. He had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. Apart form his joining Centre he worked in our Ashramas at Bombay and Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. He also did Puja in the Main Shrine at Belur Math for some time. For his simple and amiable nature he was respected by all those who came in contact with him.
19th June 1985 : Swami Uttamananda (Souren) : Announced to the Public in July 1985
Swami Uttamananda (Souren), aged 83, passed away at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama on 19th June 1985 at 5-00 a.m. He was doing tolerably well for the last one month and was admitted once at our Home of Service for treatment of dehydration and constipation. He was freed from these troubles and subsequently regained his normal health. On the day of the sad event he attended Mangala Arati as usual and returned to his room. However, an hour later it seems he felt very uncomfortable and the end came suddenly and unexpectedly. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at our Kankhal Ashrama in 1924. He had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in the year 1932. Besides being the Head of Puri Math and Kishanpur for many years he rendered service at our centres in Rangoon and Bombay. He was leading a retired life since 1970. He was staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama from 1976 till his last days. For his austere habits and unassuming nature he was respected by many.
30th June 1985 :Swami Rudrananda (Muthukrishna), Announced to the Public in August 1985
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Rudrananda (Muthukrishna), aged 84, at our Centre in Fiji on 30th June 85 at 6 a.m., due to severe congestive cardiac failure. He had been suffering from diabetes mellitus for many years past and had a mild cerebrovascular attack last year from which he made a near-normal recovery. In May 85 he had another severe attack and was hospitalized twice. Since then his condition deteriorated considerably and thereafter he did not recover his normal health. Inspite of all possible care and best medical service the end came gradually and peacefully.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Madras Math in 1924 and had his sannyasa from his Guru in 1929. Besides being editor of our Order’s Tamil Magazine ‘The Ramakrishna Vijayam’ for some years he served in other capacities in his joining Centre. About 1930 he organized a voluntary body called ‘Thondar Sangam’ to give relief to fire victims near Mylapore, Madras, and founded a colony for those victims under the name ‘ Ramakrishnapuram’ which is still existing. In 1938 he was sent to Fiji as Head of the Centre there. From his early period he concentrated his energies and efforts towards the betterment of poor and weaker section of that society. He made a profound impact on the economic life of that country through his contribution in cultural, educational, agricultural and various other fields. Though widely acclaimed and respected by all for his selfless and dedicated service the Swami never lost his humility and touch with the common masses. In his passing away the people of Fiji in general and the Order in particular lost an austere sadhu of unassuming nature who lived true to his ideals.
8th July 1985 : Brahmachari Shrutichaitanya (Vittal) : Announced to the Public in September 1985
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Brahmachari Shrutichaitanya (Vittal) on the night of July 8, 1985, at the Ramakrishna Ashrama, Mysore. He had been suffering from acute stomach trouble for the past some months and all possible medical care did not relieve him from pain. He was an initiated disciple of Swami Bhuteshananda ji Maharaj and joined in our Bangalore Ashrama in 1978.
19th December 1985: Swami Vimalananda (Madhavan Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in January 1986)
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Vimalananda (Madhavan Maharaj), aged 81 years, at the Ramakrishna Ashrama Hospital, Trivandrum, on 19th December 1985 at 5.30 p.m. due to acute renal failure with acidosis. He was admitted there on 6th August last for treatment of urinary retention complications. Though he showed slight improvement occasionally, his general condition was not satisfactory and he finally failed to recover.
An initiated disciple of Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Tiruvalla in 1930 and had his sannyasa in 1939. Besides the joining centre, he served at our centres at Rangoon, Trivandrum and Mangalore. He was also editor of Vedanta Kesari magazine for some years. He had acquired deep knowledge in Sanskrit and is known for his profound scholarship in the Shastras. Many would seek authoritative guidance from him with regard to scriptures and Sanskrit language. Very sweet, gentle and kind-hearted, he guided many spiritual seekers in their path. The Order has lost in him a devoted scholar and a sincere spiritual seeker
31st December 1985 : Vipapmananda (Raman) : Announced to the Public in February 1986
Swami Vipapmananda (Raman), aged 77, passed away at P.V.S. Hospital, Calicut, on 31st December 85 at 9-50 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. He was admitted in the Hospital twice earlier during November and December 85 with complaints of chest pain. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1934 at Trichur Centre and had his Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in the year 1942. Besides his joining Centre he served at Mysore Ashrama, Madras Math and Trivandrum. He was the Head of Calicut Centre from 1952 onwards until his retirement in 1982. He tirelessly worked for the education of children especially of the local Muslim community. He led a simple and austere sadhu life and was held in high respect by the local people for his dedication and devotion to the cause of education.
8th January 1986 : Swami Vedyananda (Basanta), Announced to the Public in February 1986
Swami Vedyananda (Basanta), aged 69, passed away at Belur Math on 8th January 86 at 8.30 a.m., its cause being respiratory failure due to motor-neuron disease. Though he was terribly suffering from the disease for the past some years and was almost bedridden he bore them quietly and cheerfully. He was fully conscious till his last moment and the end was rather sudden and peaceful. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order at our Saradapitha centre in 1945 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in the year 1953. He served also at Mayavati, Lucknow, Kishanpur and Kankhal centres. After retirement from active life he was staying at Belur Math from September 1982 onwards. For his unassuming and contented monastic life and pleasing manners he was admired by all those who came in contact with him.
22nd February 1986 : Swami Gauriswarananda ji (Rammoy Maharaj): Announced to the Public in March 1986
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Gauriswarananda ji (Rammoy Maharaj) at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 22nd February 1986, at 9-20 p.m., due to acute bronchopneumonia in a case of chronic cor pulmonale. Born in 1897, he was 89 years old. He had been in failing health for the past few years.
Swami Gauriswarananda ji hailed from Jagannathpur (Midanapore district), and had the good fortune of receiving initiation (Mantra Diksha) from the Holy Mother in the year 1915 at Jayrambati. He read up to 4th year B. A. but left his studies in 1920 after the Holy Mother’s passing away and joined the Noncooperation Movement. Two years later he joined the Order at the Jayrambati centre and had his Brahmacharya from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1924 and Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1928. He served in various capacities in our centres at Deoghar, Mysore, Bombay and Almora. He was the head of Lucknow Sevashrama and Jayrambati from 1952 to 1966 and 1966 to 1978 respectively. He had a special knack of horticulture, especially of growing roses, dahlias and other season flowers. He became an expert in this field so much so that he was invited every year by many floriculture societies to act as judge in their shows. Simple and austere in his habits the Swami was full of sympathy, love and goodwill towards all those who came in contact with him and he was deeply respected by a large number of devotees and friends. Exceptionally sweet, genial and kindhearted he endeared himself to one and all.
26th March 1986 : Swami Dhyanatmananda (Nripendra) : Announced to the Public in April 1986
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Dhyanatmananda (Nripendra), aged 80, at the Ramakrishna Mission Calcutta Students’ Home, Belgharia, on Wednesday, 26th March at 6-10 p.m., due to sudden cardiac failure owing to hypertension and diabetes mellitus. His body was brought to Math the next day and cremated here.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. He joined the Order at the Calcutta Students' Home in 1933 and continued there till his last days. Even while he was at Students’ Home in the early years of his monastic life he served as a Lecturer of History for several years at the Vidyamandira College. He also took part in Arakan (Burma) flood relief (1936), Narayanganj riot relief (1942), Burma refugee relief and Midnapore flood relief in 1943. Himself a product of the Students' Home, he spent his long monastic life in totally dedicated service of this old and valued institution of the Order. He looked after the best interests of the younger inmates of the Students' Home with unfailing care and understanding. He had acquired profound knowledge of and experience in the details of ritualistic worship and ceremonies and many monastics would seek guidance and advice from him on these matters. Exceptionally sweet, genial, and kindhearted, he was loved and respected by all. The Order has lost in him a devoted scholar, a sincere spiritual seeker and a dedicated worker.
8th April 1986 : Swami Sthirananda (Gostha Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in May 1986
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Sthirananda (Gostha Maharaj), aged 92, at the Ramakrishna Mission Home of Service, Varanasi, on 8th April 86 at 4.30 p.m., due to terminal pneumonia. He was admitted to the hospital on 8th March for general debility and oedema in feet owing to hypoproteinaemia.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Abhedananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in the year 1918 at the Kankhal Centre and had his Brahmacharya and Sannyasa Diksha from his Guru in the year 1922. Apart from his joining centre, he served at our Dinajpur, Malda and Katihar Centres. For the past several years he led a retired life and was staying at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. For his austere habits and unassuming nature he was respected by many.
4th May 1986 : Swami Muktidananda (Shyamal), Announced to the Public in June 1986
With deep sorrow we announce the unexpected passing away of one of our young monks Swami Muktidananda (Shyamal), aged 44, at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Asansol, on 4th May 1986 at about 4-30 p.m., due to sudden cardiac arrest. Though he felt some pain in the chest and uneasiness in moving his left hand freely on the previous day, it seems, he did not take it seriously. Even on the last day till noon he attended his office and felt indisposed while taking his lunch.
An initiated disciple of Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1968 at the New Delhi centre and had his Sannyasa from his Guru in 1979. Apart from his joining centre he served in our educational institutions at Narendrapur, Deoghar and Asansol. For the last 9 years he served as Headmaster of the Asansol High School. He was widely known and appreciated for his hardworking nature and active habit.
18th June 1986 : Swami Parameshananda ji (Dharani Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in July 1986
We are very sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Parameshananda ji (Dharani Maharaj), aged 87, on 18th June 86, at 2-50 p.m., at the Ramakrishna Mission Home of Service, Varanasi. He was admitted there on the previous day when he developed mild fever and slight mental confusion and death came suddenly.
An initiated disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1920 and had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1923. Besides his joining centre he served at Bankura, Udbodhan, Varanasi Sevashrama, Ceylon, Madras Math and Lucknow. Also he was a worker of Varanasi Advaita Ashrama where he led a retired life for the last 15 years or so. Being simple and austere by nature he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
11th July 1986 : Swami Kashikananda (Indreshwar) : Announced to the Public in August 1986
Swami Kashikananda (Indreshwar), aged 83, passed away at the Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math, on 11th July 86 at 3 a.m., the cause of his death being cardio-respiratory failure due to bronchogenic carcinoma. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Varanasi Home of Service in 1927 and had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. He served the Sangha through the centres at Kishenpur Taki, Kankhal, Bankura, Gauhati, Shillong, Baghbazar Math and Belur Math. For the last few years he had been leading a retired life at Math. Very simple and kindhearted by nature he was respected by many.
12th July 1986 : Swami Mahavirananda (Gopal) : Announced to the Public in August 1986
Swami Mahavirananda (Gopal), aged 78, passed away at the Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math, on 12th July 86 at 9 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure owing to oesophageal carcinoma. He was keeping indifferent health for quite some time and confined to bed for the last few months. A disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1926 and had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1943. He served in our Ashramas at Dhaka, Midnapore, Baliati, Tamluk Dinajpur, Saradapitha, Shyamla Tal, Bankura, Purulia, Kankurgachhi, Baghbazar Math and Belur Math. Also, he participated in some relief works. A hardworking monk of austere habits, he endeared himself to many.
15th August 1986 : Swami Nirodhananda (Jatin Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in September 1986
We are sorry to announce that Swami Nirodhananda (Jatin Maharaj), aged 88, passed away at the Kankhal Sevashrama on 15th August 86 at 10.55 a.m. He was suffering from various old-age ailments for the last 10 years or so. He was admitted in the hospital on 15th February this year and since then he was receiving constant medical care. However he did not register any improvement in his health condition and ultimately he succumbed.
The Swami, a disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, joined the Order in 1930 at Belur Math and had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in the year 1940. He served in Gadadhar Ashrama, Bhubaneswar, Barisal, Jalpaiguri and Varanasi Home of Service and was the Head of Puri Math, Bankura and Faridpur centres. After retirement from active work he had been living at Kankhal Centre. A monk of simple habits and amiable nature he endeared himself to those who came in touch with him.
8th October 1986 : Swami Bhudevananda (Bhupen) : Announced to the Public in November 1986
Swami Bhudevananda (Bhupen), aged 66, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 8th October 1986 at 7-35 a.m., due to cirrhosis of liver and viral hepatitis with hepatic failure.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1945 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji. Besides his joining centre he served in our Ashramas at Cherrapunji, Kankhal, Shyamla Tal, Udbodhan, and for the past some months he was staying at the Math, having retired from active work. For his quiet, contented and austere sadhu life he was admired by all.
20th October 1986 : Swami Kirtanananda (Bhupen) : Announced to the Public in November 1986
Swami Kirtanananda (Bhupen), aged 57, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 20th October 1986 at 9-50 p.m., its immediate cause being cardio-respiratory failure. He complained of severe stomach pain on the previous day for which he was admitted to the hospital on 19th. The end came suddenly and unexpectedly.
A disciple of Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at our Silchar centre in 1952, and had his sannyasa from his Guru in 1961. Apart from his joining centre he served in our centres at Bhubaneswar, Bombay, Purulia, Karimganj, Bankura, Jayrambati and Malda. Having relieved from active work because of an earlier setback in his heart condition he was staying quietly at the Cossipore Math for the last 2½ years. Simple and jovial by nature, he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
17th November 1986 : Swami Sutrananda (Sailesh) : Announced to the Public in December 1986
We are sorry to announce the sudden passing away of Swami Sutrananda (Sailesh), aged 69, on 17th November 1986 at 2-40 p.m., at the Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math, due to cardio-respiratory failure. After he had a serious setback in his heart condition some years back he was leading a retired life.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at the Habiganj Ashrama, now in Bangladesh, in 1940 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji in 1952. Apart from his joining centre he served at Sargachhi, Faridpur, Bankura and Silchar, and was the head of Puri Math. After retiring from active work he was staying at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama since 1981, and then moved to Silchar where he stayed for some time before coming to Math last year. For his simple and unassuming sadhu life he was respected by many.
18th January 1987: Swami Sandhyananda (Narayan Sastri) : Announced to the Public in February 1987
We are sorry to announce the sudden passing away of Swami Sandhyananda (Narayan Sastri), aged 64, at the Seva Pratishthan on 18th January 87 at 9-28 p.m., due to hepatic carcinoma and diabetes mellitus with hypertension. He was admitted in the hospital on 29th December 86 with complaints of severe arthritis and other ailments. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Vishakhapatnam Ashrama in 1944, and had his sannyasa in 1955 from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj. Besides his joining centre, he served in our centres at Mysore, Madras Math, New Delhi, Cherrapunji, Ranchi Sanatorium, Seva Pratishthan, Patna, Mayavati Advaita Ashrama, Shyamla Tal, and Bangalore. He was the head of Vishakhapatnam centre from Mach 1976 to July 1983. Being an erudite scholar and well versed in our Shastras, he served as an Acharya in the Training Centre at Belur Math from 1984 till his last. He was sweet and amiable by nature.
30th January 1987: Swami Aprameyananda (Madhu) : Announced to the Public in March 1987
Swami Aprameyananda (Madhu) passed away on 30th January 1987 at 9-15 a.m. due to sudden cardiac arrest at our Bombay Ashrama. He was 56. He was suffering from diabetes for the last few years. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1951 at Malda. He received his Sannyasa initiation from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1963. Apart from his joining centre he served at Midnapore, Asansol, Bankura and Bombay. He also participated in relief work at Malda. Simple in his habits, he was popular for his amiable and gentle disposition.
24th February 1987 : Satyaswarupananda (Vishesh / Dwijen Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in March 1987
Swami Satyaswarupananda (Vishesh / Dwijen Maharaj), aged 87, passed away at the Ramakrishna Mission Home of Service, Varanasi, on the 24th February 1987 at 11-20 a.m. owing to cardio-respiratory failure. He was admitted to the hospital there about a week earlier for treatment of herpes zoster affecting the face on the right side. He was also suffering from high blood pressure and other ailments during his last days. He was blessed by the Holy Mother and received initiation from her in 1919 at Koalpara. He joined the Order at Belur Math the same year and received sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in the year 1927. He served in our centres at Dhaka, Varanasi Advaita Ashrama, Kankhal, Vrindaban and Almora. From 1979 onwards he was leading a retired life at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. He was admired by all for his kindheartedness, childlike simplicity and austere and contented life.
11th April 1987: Swami Satyabodhananda (Sonawane) : Announced to the Public in May 1987
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Satyabodhananda (Sonawane) at the Ramakrishna Ashrama, Rajkot, on 11th April at 8.25 p.m. due to acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock. He was 79. He had been suffering from various old-age ailments for quite some years past. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami had his Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1948. He joined the Order at our Kankhal Ashrama in 1936 and later served at the Belur Math, and Shyamla Tal and finally at Rajkot Ashrama where he continued from 1961 till his last. Before his joining he was acclaimed as a good cricketer. His active and austere sadhu-like qualities blended with his unassuming nature were admired by all those who came in contact with him.
16th May 1987 : Swami Kamakhyananda (Rajendra) : Announced to the Public in May 1987
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Kamakhyananda (Rajendra) at Karimganj Ashrama on 16th May 1987 at about 9-40 p.m., due to acute respiratory infection. He was 87. From December last his health condition deteriorated and he had been lying in an unconscious state for more than a month because of cerebro-vascular insufficiency. An initiated disciple of Indradayal Bhattacharya (later Swami Premeshananda), the Swami joined the Order in 1922 at Karimganj and had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1929. He spent his entire monastic life in Sylhet and Karimganj centres. He was simple and austere in his habits and was appreciated for his hardworking nature and pleasing manners.
29th June 1987 : Swami Balaramananda (Shrikant) : Announced to the Public in July 1987
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Balaramananda (Shrikant), aged 57, on 29th June 1987 at 8-30 p.m., in Reunion Island Hospital near Mauritius where he was admitted in an unconscious condition following cerebral stroke on 24th May. Brain scanning revealed that there was a blood clot in the brain. In spite of the best medical care provided to him he had not registered any progress in his condition.
An initiated disciple of Swami Shankarananda ji, he joined the Order in 1961 at our Nagpur centre and received Sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji in 1970. Besides his joining centre he worked in Calcutta Advaita Ashrama and later served as joint editor of Prabuddha Bharata from Jan. 1977 to February 1979. Thereafter he became the head of Mauritius centre. He was a good writer and speaker and was endowed with scholarly attainments. He possessed an amiable and gentle disposition. The Order has lost in him a promising member.
24th June 1987 : Swami Srinathananda (Narayan) : Announced to the Public in August 1987
Swami Srinathananda (Narayan), aged 73, met with an accident on 24th June around 6 p.m. at Trivandrum. Immediately he was taken to Sri Chitra Thirunal Medical Centre in the city for brain scanning and thorough investigation. The scanning there revealed that he had severe brain injury resulting in paralysis and disability in speech. In spite of the best medical care he did not show any sign of recovery from his unconscious state. His condition grew worse and finally he succumbed to his injuries on 5th July 1987 at 4 p.m. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order at Vidyapith, Deoghar, in 1943 and had his Sannyasa in 1952 from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj. Apart from his joining centre and Belur Math, he served in our Ashramas at Kalady and Mysore. Later he became the Head of Trivandrum centre from November 85. In him the Order has lost a very active, energetic and devoted soul who tried to help all centres for getting aid from the public and the Government.
14th July 1987 : Swami Satswarupananda (Sukumar) : Announced to the Public in August 1987
Swami Satswarupananda (Sukumar) passed away at the Ramakrishna Mission Home of Service, Varanasi, on 14th July 1987 at 2-25 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. He was 94. He was admitted in the hospital there on 8th July for continuous fever and it was diagnosed that he was suffering from respiratory infection leading to terminal bronchopneumonia. The Swami was in indifferent health for the last few years. The Swami was blessed with initiation by the Holy Mother at Jayrambati and later he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1923. He had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1928 and had the rare opportunity of coming in contact with some other direct disciples. Besides Belur Math he served in our centres at Garbeta, Deoghar, Mayavati, Madras, Lucknow and Varanasi Advaita Ashrama where he led a retired life. He served as the editor of Prabuddha Bharata from 1955 to 1956. He was also an Acharya in the Training Centre at Belur Math for some time. For his sweet nature and contented life he was admired by many.
31 July 1987 : Swami Akhileswarananda (Uday) : Announced to the Public in September 1987
We are sorry to announce the sudden passing away of Swami Akhileswarananda (Uday), aged 84, on 31st July 87 at Varanasi. In the early morning of 31st July he went alone to take bath in the Ganges but later he was found missing in the Ashrama. After search his dead body was found floating in the Ganges at about 11 a.m. It is a great tragedy for our organization. He had been leading a retired life for the last several years, mainly at Ramakrishna Advaita Ashrama, Varanasi.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Contai Ashrama in 1925 and had his sannyasa in 1931 from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj. Apart form his joining centre he served in our Ashramas at Kanpur and Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. He was appreciated for his simple and austere sadhu life.
5th November 1987: Swami Mantrananda (Haragobinda) (Announced to the Public in December 1987)
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Mantrananda (Haragobinda), aged 73, on 5th November 1987 at 11.00 p.m. at the Kankhal Sevashrama. He was suffering from acute Pulmonary Koch’s recently, and also from hypertension, mild diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis for the last few years. He was admitted in our hospital on 7th October for investigation and treatment. Though he responded initially, his condition deteriorated fast thereafter.
An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Varanasi Sevashrama in 1939 and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1949. He served in his joining centre till 1972. Later he was posted at Kankhal where he continued to stay till his last. Simple, austere and jovial by nature, he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
12th December 1987 : Swami Atalananda (Devendra) : Announced to the Public in January 1988
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Atalananda (Devendra) at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 12th December 87 at 9 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of Emphysema with left bundle branch block. He was 87. He was bedridden for quite some days and was experiencing breathing difficulty for the last few days.
An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1928 at Belur Math and received his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. He served in our centres at Dhaka, Sunamganj, Sylhet, Katihar, Jayrambati and Faridpur. Finally he came to Belur Math in 1976 and since then he was leading a retired life. With his unassuming and jovial nature and contented monastic life he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him
8th January 1988 : Swami Sarvajnananda (Bhajahari) : Announced to the Public in February 1988
Swami Sarvajnananda (Bhajahari), aged 86, passed away while asleep on the 8th January night at the Nattarampalli Ashrama owing to cardio-respiratory failure. Though he was a patient of angina of heart for the past few years he was very active and seemed all right even on the fateful night. The Swami was blessed with initiation by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj. He joined the Order in 1924 at Madras Math and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1930. Apart from his joining centre he served in our ashramas at Ootacamund, Coimbatore and Nattarampalli where he was the head from 1972 till his last. He also participated in various relief and rural activities. Very simple and jovial by nature he had dedicated himself fully to the service of Sri Guru Maharaj till his last moment. He served with all his might for the uplift of poor and backward people in and around Nattarampalli and for propagating among the rural people the lives and message of Thakur, Ma and Swamiji with the aid of audio-visual equipment. In his passing away the Order has lost an elderly sadhu who was admired by one and all
18th January 1988 : Swami Anupamananda (Kiran) : Announced to the Public in February 1988
Swami Anupamananda (Kiran) passed away at Belur Math on 18th January 1988 at 1-35 p.m., the cause of death being ventricular fibrillation in a case of myocardial infarction. He was 92. He had been suffering for the last few months from various old-age ailments. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1922 at Belur Math and had his Sannyasa from his Guru in 1926. He served in our centres at Baranagore, Almora, Rangoon, Rajkot, Bhubaneswar, Varanasi Advaita Ashrama, and was the Head of Katihar centre from 1954 to 1968. He also participated in relief works during the forties. Retired from active work he was staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama from 1972 onwards and finally came to Belur Math four years ago. A monk of genial temperament and austere habits he was respected by all those who came in contact with him.
6th May 1988 : Swami Sharmananda (Sadhan) : Announced to the Public in June 1988
Swami Sharmananda (Sadhan), aged 70, passed away at the Belur Math on 6th May 88 at 3-30 a.m. due to acute myocardial infarction in a case of diabetes mellitus and hypertension. He was brought to Arogya Bhavan the previous day from Kankurgachhi after being discharged from Seva Pratishthan where he received treatment for diabetes and other ailments. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1942 at Gadadhar Ashrama, Calcutta, and received sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Except for serving at Barisal centre from 1948 to 1965 as its in-charge he all along continued in his joining centre and became its head in 1977. Retired from active work a year ago, he was staying at the Kankurgachhi Ashrama. A sadhu of simple habits and sweet nature he was respected by many.
3rd May 1988 : Swami Sridevananda (Amal) : Announced to the Public in June 88
Swami Sridevananda (Amal), aged 48, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on 3rd May '88 at Deoghar Ashrama owing to massive heart attack. He was having a severe dilation of heart. Initiated by Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order in 1965 at Asansol Ashrama and had his sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1975. He was at Belur Math for about one and half years and later worked at Deoghar Vidyapith till his last. Gentle and amiable by nature he was admired by those who came in touch with him.
18th June 1988 : Swami Hamseswarananda (Bibhuti) : Announced to the Public in July 88
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Hamseswarananda (Bibhuti) on 18th June '88 at 3-30 p.m., in Seva Pratishthan. He was 86. He had cerebral stroke about a year ago and thereafter he was bedridden in paralytic condition. Initiated by Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1922 at Koalpara Ashrama and had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1933. He spent his monastic life mostly in Koalpara and Jayrambati Ashramas. Retired from active service for the past few years he came to Math and was staying in Arogya Bhavan since 1983. An austere and kindhearted sadhu, he was full of sympathy and love towards the rural poor. Sweet and gentle in his dealings he endeared himself to one and all.
11th September 1988 : Swami Shivarupananda (Ramesh) : Announced to the Public in October 88
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Shivarupananda (Ramesh), aged 73, at the Seva Pratishthan on 11th September 88 at 4-40 p.m., owing to cardio-respiratory failure. He was suffering form chronic renal failure and heart problem for which he was admitted into the Seva Pratishthan on 16th July. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order in 1940 at our Bombay Ashrama and received Sannyasa from his Guru in 1950. Apart from his joining centre he served at the headquarters office Shillong, Rajkot and Shyamla Tal. He was also the Head of our Almora Ashrama from 1978 to 1981. Thereafter he was serving in our Institute of Culture, Calcutta, till his last. Gentle and jovial in his dealings he was admired by many.
28th September 1988 : Swami Jyeshthananda (Jaykrishna) : Announced to the Public in November 88
Swami Jyeshthananda (Jaykrishna), aged 65, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on 28th September 88 at about 6 a.m. Nearly six years ago he had an attack of left-sided hemiplegia followed by myocardial ischaemia and afterwards by acute left ventricular failure. Though he recovered from the ailments to some extent, he was virtually leading a retired life. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1948 at Varanasi Sevashrama and received Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1958. He served at the Sevashrama till his last. He was known for his simplicity and amiable nature.
2nd October 1988 : Swami Maitreyananda (Hiralal) : Announced to the Public in November 88
Swami Maitreyananda (Hiralal) passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 2nd October 88 at 8.05 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. He was 84. He was suffering from uremia and was brought to the hospital from Deoghar for treatment. In spite of all medical care he failed to register any improvement. The Swami received initiation from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj and joined the Order in 1934 at Barisal. He had his Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. Besides his joining centre he served at Deoghar, Belur Math, Vrindaban, Kankhal and Ranchi Sanatorium. He was admired by many for his simple and austere sadhu life.
18th October 1988: Swami Punyatmananda (Prasad) : Announced to the Public in November 88
Swami Punyatmananda (Prasad), aged 66, passed away at Kankhal Sevashrama on 18th October 88 at 12-15 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1945 at Bangalore Ashrama and received sannyasa in 1966 from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj. He served in our Ashramas at Kankhal, Narendrapur, Chandigarh and Raipur. Retiring from active life he was staying in Kankhal Ashrama for some years past. Known for his ascetic life, he endeared himself to many.
12th November 1988: Swami Aniketananda (Dinesh) : Announced to the Public in December 88
Swami Aniketananda (Dinesh), aged 77, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 12th November 88 at 3-30 a.m. because of cardio-respiratory failure due to a cerebro-vascular accident. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1936 and had his Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1945. Besides his joining centre he served in our Ashramas at Asansol, Barisal, Narendrapur (then Pathuriaghat Ashrama), Sargachhi, Tamluk, Jamtara and Bombay. He also took active part in Noakhali riot relief and other famine relief works. Retired from active work he was staying at Belur Math since 1974. He was known for his unassuming and contented monastic life.
19th November 1988 : Swami Ajapananda (Purna) : Announced to the Public in December 88
Swami Ajapananda (Purna), aged 86, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 19th November 88 at 9-25 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order at our Contai Ashrama in 1928 and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1942. He served in our centres at Midnapore, Baranagore, Malda, Belur Math, Balaram Mandir and Gadadhar Ashrama. Since 1985 he was staying at Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math. In spite of his physical sufferings the Swami maintained cheerfulness and departed chanting the name of our Master.
11th December 1988: Swami Saradeshananda (Gopesh Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in January 1989)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Saradeshananda (Gopesh Maharaj), aged 94, at Vrindaban Sevashrama on 11th December 1988 at 9.07 a.m. due to cerebral hemorrhage. On 9th at about 1.30 a.m. he had respiratory distress and lost consciousness, and his right side became partially paralyzed. Physicians on examination found that he had suffered a cerebral stroke and his blood pressure was quite high. However, he responded to treatment and regained his consciousness. On 11th morning he had another serious stroke to which he ultimately succumbed. His body was put into salil samadhi in the river Yamuna.
Blessed by initiation from the Holy Mother in 1917 he joined the Order in 1923 at Jayrambati and received sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1930. He served the Holy Mother for some years and also served later at Jayrambati as a monastic worker for the second term. Except for his participation in massive relief work in Cachar, Manasadwip, Hingalganj and Madras, he spent the major part of his life in tapasya in different parts of UP and Punjab. Since 1972 he was leading a retired life at Vrindaban Sevashrama. However, he stayed for about one year in 1975 at Agartala Ashrama. He had to his credit two excellent works in Bengali, Sri Sri Mayer Smriti Katha and Sri Chaitanya Dev. Combined in his life a high idealism with practical wisdom, he was a guide and friend to many monastic members. His deep insight into the problems of monastic life, simple and austere life and selfless affection drew young and old to him. He was respected and loved for his sweet nature and loving concern for others.
27th December 1988: Srimat Swami Gambhirananda ji Maharaj (Announced to the Public in January 1989)
With profound sorrow we inform you that Srimat Swami Gambhirananda ji Maharaj, the eleventh President of the Math and Mission, entered Mahasamadhi on Tuesday, the 27th December 1988 at 7.27 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta. He was 90.
On 15th December he left Math for a short tour to Bamunmura, Sikra-kulingram, Barasat and Navadwip. On 19th while at Barasat he developed mild coughing. But without paying much attention to it he proceeded to Navadwip the following morning. There he was not feeling well and the cough became severe. A local physician was called in but nothing serious could be detected. On 23rd evening blood stains were noticed in his sputum and he showed mild temperature. He was put on an antibiotic course. A trunk-call message was received at the Headquarters about the seriousness of his illness. The treatment continued and he returned to Math the following morning. Arrangements were made to get the doctors soon after his arrival and immediately he was examined by a team of specialists. On their advice he was admitted into Seva Pratishthan that very noon. Investigations revealed that he had developed severe lung infection and congestive cardiac failure. However, he responded to the treatment favourably and improved satisfactorily. Even on 27th morning as also in the evening he talked with those Swamis who visited him in the hospital. This was at 5.30 p.m. Around 6 p.m. he wanted to answer nature’s call. Immediately thereafter he developed severe respiratory distress, possibly due to pulmonary infarction and he felt quite uncomfortable. It finally led to his cardio-respiratory failure at 7.27 p.m.
His body was brought to Math at about 10.30 p.m. and kept in a spacious room near Relief Office opposite to the old Arogya Bhavan building. The sad news of Revered Maharaj’s Mahasamadhi was broadcast over radio and television that night and in the following morning and also it was carried in the newspapers. Monastic members from our branch centres and thousands of disciples, devotees and sympathizers poured in to pay their last respects. On 28th at about 11 a.m. his body was taken in procession to the courtyard in front of the Math Office and kept on a high platform decorated with flowers and garlands where it remained till 1.30 p.m. The last rites of cremation started at 2.15 p.m. and were over by 5 p.m. It was estimated that around 50,000 people came to pay their last homage to Revered Maharaj. Special Puja and Bhandara will be held on 8th January.
Born on February 11, 1899, the Swami, known in his pre-monastic days as Jatindra Nath Dutta, hailed from Sadhuhati, a village in the district of Sylhet (now in Bangladesh). After graduating from Scottish Church College, Calcutta, he served in military accounts department in Rangoon for some time before joining the Order in May 1923. A disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he had his sannyasa from him in 1928.
The Swami had an outstanding record of service to the great Organization. He became the Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapith, Deoghar, in 1926, and continued there up to December 1935. He studied Sanskrit scriptures at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. He served as a member of the Working Committee of the Math and Mission during 1936-41 and 1944-47. In the intervening period, he was Editor of Prabuddha Bharata for three years. Later, from 1953 to 1963, he was President of Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati. Appointed as a Trustee of the Order in March 1947, he became one of the Assistant Secretaries in April that year. He served in that post till 1953, and again from 1963 to 1966. Then he became the General Secretary of the Math and Mission. He was elected one of the Vice-presidents in April 1979, and continued in that position till he became the eleventh President of the Order in April, 1985.
He was an erudite scholar. His English version of the nine major Upanishads, the Bhagavad-gita and the Brahmasutras with Shankara’s commentary, and the Bengali version of ten major Upanishads, Stavakusumanjali, Siddhanta-lesha-sangraha, have earned appreciation from all quarters. In addition to his translations, the fruits of his scholarship consist in some of his masterly works of an original nature. Of them, Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi and History of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission in English and Sri Ma Sarada Devi, Yuganayak Vivekananda (in 3 volumes), and Sri Ramakrishna-Bhaktamalika in Bengali, deserve special mention. He edited the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda (in 8 volumes) thoroughly, and provided an independent ‘Index’ to each of the volumes. He also compiled and edited Apostles of Sri Ramakrishna in English. In the last few years he was busy in translating into English Madhusudan Saraswati’s commentary on the Bhagavad-gita which he had completed. He was to edit it before sending it to press but unfortunately death snatched him away.
His sad demise is an irreparable loss to our Organization. Endowed with rich qualities of head and heart, the Swami had endeared himself to the monastic brothers as a towering personality entirely dedicated to the lofty ideals of the Organization. Members of our Order held him in their highest esteem for his prompt decisions, steadfastness, punctuality, straight-forwardness and the high qualities of monastic life. His disciples lost in him a direct guide whose understanding, sympathy and silent loving concern as their Spiritual Guru had sustained them.
27th January 1989: Swami Diptananda (Prabodh) (Announced to the Public in February 1989)
Swami Diptananda (Prabodh), aged 92, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 27th January 1989 at 10 a.m. at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan, the cause of death was cardio-respiratory failure in a case of acute myocardial infarction with complete heart block. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1922 at Belur Math and received Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1936. Since his joining he served in Thakur Bhandar at Belur Math with utmost devotion and dedication. He suffered a heart attack in April 1977 and since then he was staying at Arogya Bhavan. He was of a very sweet nature and his smiling face was ever a sign of contentment which he displayed till his last.
24th January 1989 : Swami Dhairyananda (Rajani) : Announced to the Public in February 1989
Swami Dhairyananda (Rajani), aged 89, passed away on 24th January '89 at 5-40 a.m. at the Belur Math Arogya Bhavan due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of cerebro-vascular accident. Old-age ailments made him bed-ridden for quite some months. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order in 1935 at Belur Math and received sannyasa in 1943 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Having a liking for medical services, he mostly worked in dispensaries and hospitals in our centres at Belur Math, Mayavati, Madras, Lucknow, Kankhal and Deoghar. Very simple by nature and jovial in his dealings he endeared himself to many.
26th January 1989 : Swami Anantarananda (Kesav) : Announced to the Public in February 1989
Swami Anantarananda (Kesav) passed away on 26th January ’89 at 3-15 p.m., at the Seva Pratishthan. He was 84. His was a case of diabetes mellitus with prostrate problems for which he was undergoing treatment at Seva Pratishthan for some months. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1937 at Kankhal Sevashrama and received Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1947. Apart from his joining centre he served in our Ashramas at Saradapitha, Seva Pratishthan, Bhubaneswar, Ramharipur, Belur Math, etc. He also participated in several relief works in early forties. He had considerable experience in construction work and worked hard for years until he had to retire due to illness and stay at the Belur Math. He was known for his methodical and well-regulated life.
9th March 1989 : Swami Dhruvatmananda (Suren) : Announced to the Public in April 1989
Swami Dhruvatmananda (Suren), aged 89, passed away on the 9th March '89 at 12-05 p.m., at the Seva Pratishthan due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of neck femur fracture. Initiated by Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1924 and had his sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1930. Besides serving in our centres at Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Udbodhan, he was also the Head of Jamshedpur, Bankura, Bagerhat and Deoghar centres. For his simple and amiable nature he was respected by those who came in contact with him.
30th March 1989 : Swami Sandrananda (Manik) : Announced to the Public in April 1989
Swami Sandrananda (Manik) passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on the 30th March '89 at 8-45 a.m., the cause of his death being cardio-respiratory failure in a case of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He was 81. For the past few years he was suffering from various old-age ailments. He received initiation from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1922 and joined the Order in 1924 at Garbeta Ashrama. He was initiated into sannyasa by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. He served in our centres at Chandipur, Rangoon, Ranchi, Bankura, Sargachhi and Belur Math. A lover of vocal music he was known for his austere and simple life.
20th March 1989 : Brahmachari Tripureshachaitanya (Kishore) : Announced to the Public in April 1989
Brahmachari Tripureshachaitanya (Kishore), aged 32, passed away prematurely on the 20th March '89 at Kankhal Sevashrama leaving every body sad. The body was found lying just behind the six-storied building under construction. Police inquiries revealed that he had fallen accidentally from the building. Initiated by Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Kankhal in 1982 and had his Brahmacharya from Swami Gambhirananda ji Maharaj in 1988.
25th April 1989 : Swami Nityayuktananda (Mahendra) : Announced to the Public in May 1989
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Nityayuktananda (Mahendra), aged 86, at Sargachhi Ashrama on 25th April '89 at 4-25 p.m., due to sudden heart failure. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1921 at Dhaka Ashrama and had his Sannyasa in 1943 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Besides his joining Centre he served in our Ashramas at Varanasi (Home of Service), Lucknow, Vrindaban, Kankhal, Karimganj, Silchar and Sargachhi where he continued till his last. Simple and austere by nature he was admired by many for his unassuming and contented sadhu life.
26th May 1989 : Swami Bodhamayananda (Giridhari) : Announced to the Public in June 1989
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of one of our young monks, Swami Bodhamayananda (Giridhari), aged 54, at the Seva Pratishthan on 26th May '89 at 8-35 a.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of renal failure. Though he was suffering from chronic stomach problems, recently he developed kidney trouble for which he was admitted into the Seva Pratishthan on 27th April. In spite of the best medical care he did not make any improvement. An initiated disciple of Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at our Asansol Ashrama in 1958 and received sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1968. He was a Sevak of later Swami Nirvanananda ji Maharaj for about 15 years and later he served in our centres at Kankhal, Contai, Bankura and Varanasi Sevashrama. Unassuming by nature, he was known for his austere habits and simple life.
27th August 1989 : Swami Atmananda (Tulendra) : Announced to the Public in September 1989
With deep sorrow and shock we announce the sudden passing away of Swami Atmananda (Tulendra), aged 60, who met with a car accident near Rajnandgaon village, about 75 kilometers from Raipur, on 27th August '89 at 2-30 p.m. He was returning from Bhopal when his car suddenly skidded and overturned, trapping the Swami under it. He was rescued with the help of local villagers and rushed to the nearest hospital. All efforts to save his life proved abortive and he breathed his last at 3-00 p.m. The driver and another occupant were injured seriously.
Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj the Swami joined the Order in 1951 at Nagpur Ashrama and had his Brahmacharya in 1957. He left the Order in 1959 and organized an Ashrama at Raipur. He was readmitted into the Order and the Raipur centre became a branch of the Mission in 1968. He received sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in December 1967. He was the Secretary of Raipur Ashrama till his last. The extensive tribal development work in Abujhmarh that he undertook recently drew enormous support and appreciation from the Government and the public. An erudite scholar, a forceful writer and a versatile speaker, Swami Atmananda had been the instrument in spreading the cause of Ramakrishna Movement, particularly in the Hindi-speaking area. Gentle and dignified in his dealings with others, he attracted everyone who came in contact with him. His death in an irreparable loss to the Order.
11th September 1989 : Swami Narayanananda (Indra) : Announced to the Public in October 1989
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Narayanananda (Indra), aged 90, at the Seva Pratishthan on 11th September '89 at 10-30 p.m., due to cardio-respiratory failure. He was suffering from diabetes mellitus and had a cerebral stroke on 28th August before he was admitted in the hospital. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1931 and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1939. Besides taking part in Noakhali relief work in 1946 he served in our centres at Delhi, Kankhal, Madras (Math), Puri (Mission) and Jayrambati. Since 1976 he was leading a retired life in Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math. With his simple and unassuming nature he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
18 November 1989 : Swami Abhayananda ji (Bharat Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1989
With profound sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Abhayananda ji (Bharat Maharaj) on 18th November '89 at 0007 hours at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta. He was admitted in the hospital on 2nd June this year for treatment of urinary tract infection and diabetes mellitus. Under the treatment by a panel of specialists he responded variably. But his health condition slowly deteriorated and on 17th November it became critical and at about five minutes past midnight the rate of his respiration, blood pressure and pulse fell rapidly. However, he was conscious till the end. His body was brought to Math at 8-45 a.m., and laid at rest in the spacious hall near the relief office for the public. The last rites ended at 6-15 p.m. The sad news of Maharaj’s passing away was broadcast over radio and T. V. and also was carried in the national dailies. Monastic members from our different centres, devotees and admirers poured in to pay their homage. Floral wreath sent by the Prime Minister was offered at his feet. The Governor and the Chief Minister of West Bengal and many distinguished persons from all walks of life came and paid their last respects.
A disciple of the Holy Mother, the Swami, known as Atul Chandra Guha in his pre-monastic life, joined the Order in 1909 at Belur Math and received sannyasa from Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj in 1920. During his school days he was drawn into the group of freedom fighters known as “Anushilan Samity” but, after coming in contact with the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna, he gave up political pursuits in search of spiritual fulfilment he was seeking. He was fortunate to have come in touch with twelve direct monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna.
After spending about five years at Belur Math, he was posted as Manager at the Mayavati Advaita Ashrama where he served for sixteen years. Then he was called back to Belur Math. He first served as one of the two Managers of the Math from 1930 and then as its only Manager from 1966. He was a member of the Working Committee from 1936 to 1940 and again from 1944 to 1946. He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and a Member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission since 1947. Also he temporarily served as President during vacancy occurring in office of the President twice.
Bharat Maharaj possessed a dynamic personality. The charisma of his towering personality left a lasting and vivid impression in the minds of all who met him. Distinguished persons from every walk of life were drawn to him and they remained devoted to him ever afterwards. His prodigious memory, strong common sense, deep concern for others and his selfless and yet personal readiness in helping men and women to sort out their problems made Bharat Maharaj a household name. He was a source of strength and encouragement to all who came in contact with him. He gave the most unstinting and tireless service to the Order in innumerable ways.
The centenarian monk’s demise is an irreparable loss to the Order and has created a void difficult to fill up.
In his memory special Puja and 'Bhandara' were held at the Math on 29th of last month. Devotees thronged in large number from early hours of the day. Prasad in packets was distributed to about 27,000 persons. In the evening a public meeting presided over by President Maharaj was held. A booklet titled 'Swami Abhayananda' was published in Bengali on this occasion.
16th December 1989 : Swami Yatirajananda (Venkata Raman) : Announced to the Public in January 1990
We feel deeply sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Yatirajananda (Venkata Raman) at the Rajahmundry Ashrama while he was attending the public meeting there on 16th December '89 at 10.20 a.m. He was 57. Though he had a history of heart problems, he was keeping fairly well of late and was doing his normal work. From Vizag he had gone to Rajahmundry to attend the Sri Ramakrishna image installation ceremony. There he had a massive heart attack and suddenly collapsed in his seat. An initiated disciple of Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1953 at Madras Math and received sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. He served in our Kanchipuram Ashrama before he was appointed head of Chengalpattu Centre in 1973. Later he participated in relief and rehabilitation work at Malda. In 1983 he took charge of Vishakhapatnam centre and remained its head till his last. And during this short period he took up a major development project consisting of construction of temple, dispensary building, monks' quarters, etc. He was known for his simple and unassuming nature and austere sadhu life.
7th April 1990 : Swami Varishthananda (Kamal) : Announced to the Public in May 1990
Swami Varishthananda (Kamal), aged 81, expired at Seva Pratishthan on 7th April '90 at 5-35 a.m., as a result of cardio-respiratory failure. A disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1928 at our Bankura centre and had his Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1937. After serving in his joining centre for 37 years he moved to Bhubaneswar Ashrama in 1966 and served there until came to Belur Math in 1975 to lead a retired life. Since then he was living in the Arogya Bhavan here. He was a monk of simple habits and sweet nature.
8th April 1990 : Swami Prematmananda (Mahavir) : Announced to the Public in May 1990
Swami Prematmananda (Mahavir) passed away in our Bombay Ashrama on 8th April 1990 at 1.10 a.m., due to left ventricular failure. He came to Bombay towards the end of January last for treatment of his throat cancer. Also he had a history of ischemic heart. The Swami joined the Vivekananda Ashram, Kuala Lumpur, in 1924 and came to Belur Math the following year. He had his initiation from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1925 and received sannyasa in 1929 from his Guru. Besides Belur Math he served at Advaita Ashrama, Kanchipuram, Ootacamund, Kankhal, Institute of Culture and Kataragama (Sri Lanka) centres. He was also the Secretary of Rangoon Sevashrama for one year. Since 1954 he was the Head of our Colombo centre until he retired in 1987. Gentle and dignified in his bearing he was highly respected for his spiritual qualities.
19th May 1990 : Swami Samprajnananda (Suri) : Announced to the Public in June 1990
We are deeply sorry to announce the sudden passing away of Swami Samprajnananda (Suri), Head of our Colombo centre, on 19th May '90 at 2-55 p.m., in a hospital in Colombo. He was 71. On 15th may at about 7-45 p.m., he went to the bathroom and there he fell flat on his face. Followed by it he vomited blood and was rushed to a nearby nursing home immediately. During the next two days he had blood vomiting three more times. To tackle his internal hemorrhage the doctors suggested surgical operation. Transfusion of five liters of blood did not help to normalize his condition. Rather his condition deteriorated fast and finally he succumbed. The Prime Minister of Sri Lanka and many other distinguished persons from all walks of life paid their homage in person.
Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1940 at Madras Math and had his Sannyasa from him in 1949. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Saradapitha and the Salem Ashrama where he worked for a number of years and subsequently became the Head of that Centre. He was also in charge of Almora and Ponampet centres before his joining the Colombo centre as its Head. His active habits and unassuming nature blended with austere sadhu-like qualities were admirable. His sudden passing away is a great shock and loss to the organization.
7 August 1990 : Swami Shivaramananda (Achintya) : Announced to the Public in September 1990
We are deeply sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Shivaramananda (Achintya) at Seva Pratishthan on 7 August '90 at 6.45 p.m. due to cardio-respiratory failure in a case of acute myocardial infarction. He was 88. Initiated by Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1922 at Sylhet. He received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1943. Besides his joining centre he served in our Ashramas at Karimganj, Dhaka, Koalpara, Narayanganj and Puri (Math). He was also the head of Karimganj Ashrama from 1954 to 1969. Retired from active work he was staying at the Belur Math since 1983. The Swami was known for his steadfastness in spiritual pursuits and his kindheartedness towards all who came in contact with him.
11th October 1990 : Swami Apurvananda (Shankar Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in November 1990
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Apurvananda (Shankar Maharaj) at Varanasi Sevashrama hospital at 1 p.m. on 11th October '90. He was 90. For the last couple of years he was keeping somewhat indifferent health due to various old-age ailments. Admitted to the hospital on the 1st September he was responding to medical treatment satisfactorily. But since the 8th October he had fever which was followed by acute urinary infection. He condition deteriorated and he finally succumbed to cardio-respiratory failure. He was given salil samadhi in the Ganga.
Swami Apurvananda hailed from Madhupur (now in Bangladesh). He received initiation from the Holy Mother in 1919 at Jayrambati and joined the Order at Belur Math the same year. The Swami had his Brahmacharya from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1920 and received sannyasa from him in 1923. During his stay at Belur Math from 1919 to 1937 he had the privilege of serving Revered Mahapurush Maharaj and also of coming in contact with several other direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. He served at Shyamla Tal Centre from 1937 to 1954 -- the last three years as the Head of the Centre. From 1954 to 1969 he was the President of Varanasi Advaita Ashrama. Then he took charge of Bhubaneswar centre before being appointed once again as Head of Varanasi Advaita Ashrama in 1974 and he continued in this capacity till his last. He had to his credit many books in Bengali and Sanskrit and translation of some of them in other languages. The Swami was full of love, sympathy and goodwill towards all those who came to know him closely and was highly respected by many. He endeared himself to one and all by his rich qualities of head and heart.
4th November 1990 : Swami Vagiswarananda (Amarnath) : Announced to the Public in December 1990
Swami Vagiswarananda (Amarnath) died in a rail accident the morning of the 4th November '90 at Ajni railway station near Nagpur. He was 42. The accident occurred when he was returning from his usual morning stroll. On the fateful day at about 9 a.m., one railway police constable brought the sad news. Initiated by Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1971 at Nagpur centre and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1981. Since his joining, he served at the Nagpur centre in various capacities and was one of the editors of the Marathi monthly “Jivan Vikas”. A talented and versatile person, the Swami was of simple nature and was loved by everyone for his qualities of head and heart. In his passing away, the Order has last a promising young monk.
20th November 1990 : Swami Amareswarananda (Samir) : Announced to the Public in December 1990
Swami Amareswarananda (Samir) passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on the 20th November '90 in a tragic condition. He was 42. For the past few months he appeared much depressed and of unsettled mind. Of late, he was hospitalized for treatment of acute hepatitis. A disciple of Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1972 at Rahara Boys' Home and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1982. Apart from his joining centre he served at Belur Math, Ranchi Sanatorium, Purulia, Almora and Puri Math. The Swami had simple habits and used to work hard in his early days.
25 January 1991 : Swami Sharanananda (Santosh / Doctor Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in February 1991
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Sharanananda (Santosh, also known as Doctor Maharaj) at the Lucknow Sevashrama on the 25th January '91 at 2-30 a.m., due to renal failure and myocardiac infarction. He was 90. Following cardiac complaints, he was admitted to the hospital on the 24th January afternoon. The best available medical care was provided, but to no avail. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Sargachhi Ashrama in 1933 and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941. Besides serving the joining centre, he worked at Kankhal Sevashrama for some years and then at Belur Math dispensary for decades. From 1968 onwards he was leading a retired life at the Lucknow Sevashrama. For his dedicated and austere life and his unassuming nature he was loved and respected by many.
26th June 1991: Swami Vaidyananda (Kishori) (Announced to the Public in July 1991)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Vaidyananda (Kishori) at Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital on the 26th June 1991 at 11.55 a.m. due to cerebral stroke. He was 69. A disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1946 at Deoghar. He received Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1956. Besides his joining centre he served at Belur Math from 1960 to 1989. After that he stayed at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama for a few months. He was leading a retired life in our Barasat Ashrama for the past one year. The Swami was hard-working and was known for his simple and austere life.
4th August 1991 : Swami Premarupananda (Haripada) : Announced to the Public in September 1991
Swami Premarupananda (Haripada) breathed his last on the 4th August 1991 at 9.40 p.m., at Lansdowne Nursing & Research Centre, Calcutta, due to sudden heart failure. He was 74. On his falling seriously ill at Jayrambati, he was brought from there and admitted into the Nursing Home. His was a case of ischaemic heart disease and diabetes. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1938 at our Bhubaneswar Centre. He had his sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. Besides his joining Centre, he served at Katihar, Allahabad, Udbodhan, Rangoon and Madras Math. He was the pujari of Sri Ramakrishna temple and other temples at Belur Math between 1947 and 1949. He also participated in Mission's relief work in Surat (Gujarat). The Swami was head of Kanpur and Shillong centres before taking up one of the Manager's duties at Belur Math for about two years from 1976 to 1978. Thereafter, he was appointed Head of Jayrambati centre in which capacity he remained till his last. Exceptionally sweet and loving by naturthand kind-hearted, the Swami endeared himself to one and all.
17th August 1991 :Swami Sushantananda (Phanindra) : Announced to the Public in September 1991
Swami Sushantananda (Phanindra), aged 77, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service hospital on the 17th August '91 at 2-15 a.m., due to cardio-respitatory failure. He was admitted into the hospital on the 24th July with complaints of left-sided Bell’s palsy and tremors. The Swami joined the Order in 1936 at Bankura. He had his initiation from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1935 and received sannyasa in 1945 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Besides his joining centre he served at Asansol, Katihar, Midnapore, Udbodhan, Belur Math, Bhubaneswar, Jayrambati and the two centres at Varanasi. He was also the Head of our Tamluk and Bankura centres. Of late, he was staying at the Varanasi Advaita Ashrama as a retired monk. The Swami was known for his simple habits and austere sadhu life.
11th September 1991 : Swami Nityasatyananda (Murty) : October 1991
With deep sorrow we announce the sudden passing away of Swami Nityasatyananda (Murty), aged 72, at the Varanasi Home of Service hospital on the 11th September '91 at 5 p.m. He was admitted to the hospital on the 4th September, and investigation revealed that he was suffering from diabetes, uraemia, acute pneumonia and anaemia. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Madras Math in 1940 and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1948. Besides his joining centre, the Swami served at Belur Math, Saradapitha, Bangalore, Mysore, Vishakhapatnam, Vrindaban, Delhi, Kankhal, Almora, Shyamla Tal and Chandigarh. From 1973 he was a worker of Varanasi Advaita Ashrama and became Head of the centre in November '90. He remained in that capacity till his last. Simple, gentle and kind-hearted, the scholarly Swami was admired by all who came in contact with him.
3rd October at 1991 : Swami Tapasyananda ji Maharaj : Announced to the Public in November 1991
Our Vice-president Swami Tapasyananda ji Maharaj passed away at 6-32 p.m., on the 3rd October '91 at BSS Hospital, Madras. He was 87.
On the 19th February last he was hospitalized with symptoms of hypoglycemia, in a nursing home in Madras. Though improved a little, later in June he had serious complications due to, among other ailments, acute broncho pneumonia. Admitted again into Vijaya Hospital from the 27th June to the 18th July, he was attended upon round the clock by monastic members and a team of reputed specialists. He showed some improvement but there was a setback on the 31st August. Then on the 6th September he was admitted to the BSS Hospital. After a detailed examination the doctors confirmed the earlier diagnosis of T. B. On the 25th September, at 11 a.m., he went into a coma. As he experienced breathing difficulty he was put on a 'ventilator'. On the 3rd October he attained Mahasamadhi.
The sad news was broadcast over radio and television that evening and was carried by newspapers the next morning. His body was brought to the Madras Math at 8-30 p.m., and kept for darshan in the library building. A large number of devotees and friends came to the Math to pay homage. The next day around 2 p.m., the body was taken in a huge procession to the Mylapore burning ghat for the last rites.
Special Puja and Bhandara were held both at Belur Math and Madras Math on the 15th October . The memorial meeting held at Madras Math on the same day was presided over by the General Secretary.
The Swami was born in 1904 at Ottapalam in Kerala and came in contact with the Ramakrishna Vivekananda Movement and its literature at a young age. In 1921 he met Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj and Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj when they visited Madras. He received mantra diksha from Revered Mahapurush Maharaj in December 1924, joined the Order at the Madras Students' Home in 1926 and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1932 [1933]. From 1931 to 1939 he was the editor of the Vedanta Kesari. In 1940 he was appointed Head of the Trivandrum Ashrama, where he spent the next three decades, developing the small dispensary there into a big hospital. From 1971 till the end he was head of the Madras Math. In November 1965 he was appointed a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and a Member of the Governing Body of the Ramakrishna Mission, and in 1985 he was elected one of the Vice-presidents of the Order.
The Swami was an erudite scholar. He translated many Sanskrit scriptures into English, the most outstanding of which is his 4-volume translation of Srimad Bhagavatasm. The last notable title he wrote was Bhakti Schools of Vedanta which is a masterly study of the philosophies of Ramanuja, Madhva, Nimbarka, Chaitanya, and Vallabha.
His sad demise is an irreparable loss to our organization, and creates a vacuum difficult to fill up. An inspiring personality entirely dedicated to the ideals of the Sangha, the Swami was respected by all for his austere life, self-discipline, dedication, service, and devotion. The devotees have lost in him a loving spiritual guide whose understanding, affection and sympathy were an invaluable asset to them.
10th October 1991: Swami Yogasthananda (Sanat) (Announced to the Public in November 1991)
Swami Yogasthananda (Sanat), aged 76, passed away at the Belur Math on the 10th October 1991 at 3.55 p.m. due to acute respiratory failure in a case of bronchial asthma. A disciple of Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1941 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. Besides being the Head of Khetri and Cossipore Centres, he served at Allahabad, Asansol, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Mayavati, Purulia and Kankurgachhi centres. He was well versed in Sanskrit studies. Since 1982 he was staying in the Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math as a retired monk. Very simple and unassuming, the Swami endeared himself to all who came in contact with him.
25th October 1991 : Swami Mananananda (Kalipada) : Announced to the Public in November 1991
Swami Mananananda (Kalipada), passed away at Belur Math on the 25th October '91 at 00-40 a.m. He was 81. For sometime past he was suffering from pulmonary oedema and was being treated for it. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Sylhet Ashrama in 1937 and had Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. Apart from his joining Centre, he served at Bagerhat, Mayavati, Almora, Rajkot and Karimganj centres. From 1972 onwards he was leading a retired life at Karimganj Ashrama and since 1984 he was staying at the Arogya Bhavan here. Well known for his austerity and simplicity, the Swami was ever cheerful and contented.
28 October 1991 : Swami Shivaswarupananda ji (Moti Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in November 1991
Swami Shivaswarupananda ji (Moti Maharaj) passed away at Belur Math on the 28th October '91 at 1-20 p.m. He was 89. Though the Swami had been suffering from various old-age ailments for quite sometime past, his condition deteriorated fast of late in spite of the best available medical care, and the end came peacefully. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at our Vrindaban Sevashrama in 1922 and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1928. He had the rare privilege of serving Revered Mahapurush Maharaj from 1926 to 1934. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Math, Mysore and Udbodhan centres. He was Head of Kalimpong centre (now not existing), Shyamla Tal, Puri Math and Jamtara centres. Since 1976 he was leading a retired life, first staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama for a year and then at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan. The Swami was loved and respected by one and all for his exceptionally sweet nature, and spiritual fervor.
29th October 1991 : Swami Vijnananda (Jambava Bhat) : Announced to the Public in November 1991
Swami Vijnananda (Jambava Bhat), aged 66, passed away under tragic circumstances. He came to Belur Math on the 27th October '91 for attending the Heads' and Monks' Conferences. The Swami was found missing the next morning. His dead body was seen floating on the Ganges on the 29th morning. The body was cremated at Belur Math the same night. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1946, the Swami joined the Order the same year at Mysore Ashrama and had his Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1956. Besides his joining centre, he served at the Mangalore Ashrama as an assistant to begin with, and later became its Head in 1966. He assumed charge of Salem Centre in 1981 and was continuing in that position till his last. Very gentle and kind-hearted, the Swami was loved by all who came in touch with him.
18th November 1991 : Swami Kalyaneswarananda (Prafulla ) : Announced to the Public in December 1991
Swami Kalyaneswarananda (Prafulla), popularly known as “photographer Swami”, passed away on the 18th November '91 at 10-10 p.m., at the Saradapitha, Belur. He was 81. For the last couple of years he had been suffering from some old-age ailments and was feeling weak during his last few days. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1932, the Swami joined the Order at Mayavati in 1938 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1948. After serving for about eight years at Mayavati and its branch at Calcutta, he moved to Saradapitha in 1946 where he continued till his last. He also participated in cyclone and flood relief work at Midnapore during his stay at Advaita Ashrama. With the knack of photography, he dedicated himself to improving the photography section of the Saradapitha. The Swami endeared himself to one and all with his simple, unassuming and jovial nature.
21 November 1991 : Swami Suryananda (Saroj) : Announced to the Public in December 1991
Swami Suryananda (Saroj), aged 83, died at the Kankhal Sevashrama hospital on 21st November '91 at 5-46 p.m. On the 18th November at about 1 p.m., when he was heating water at our Uttarkashi Kutia, his clothes caught fire. He got severe burns and was rushed to the Uttarkashi hospital. For better care and treatment he was later shifted to our hospital at Kankhal. However, in spite of all efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1941, he joined the Order at Belur Math the same year. He received Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Apart from his joining centre, he served at the Calcutta Institute of Culture, Udbodhan, Varanasi Home of Service and Saradapitha and was head of our Rangoon Society and Bankura centre. The Swami was looking after legal matters at the Headquarters for some time. From 1977 he was Manager of our Uttarkashi Kutia till his last. He was admired for his austere habits and simple sadhu life.
21st November 1991 : Sri T.S. Avinashilingam : Announced to the Public in December 1991
Sri T.S. Avinashilingam, the founder of the Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya, Coimbatore, and its Secretary till March 1987, passed away on the 21st November 1991 at 9-15 p.m. He was 89. He was keeping indifferent health for the past two years. In the evening of the 18th November he developed severe lung congestion and breathing trouble. He was admitted the next morning to the intensive care unit of a private clinic at Coimbatore. He appeared to show some signs of improvement on the 20th, but the end came the next day.
Born in Tiruppur (Tamil Nadu) on the 5th May 1903, Sri Avinashilingam graduated in Politics, Economics and Law in Madras. During his college days he came in contact with the Ramakrishna Movement when he met two of the direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna: Revered Swamis Brahmananda ji Maharaj and Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1923 (sic). Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1923, he derived inspiration from the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda, and in preference to a life of ease and pleasure, chose to live a life of sacrifice for the freedom of the country and for the education and uplift of its masses. After independence he served the country as the first Education Minister of the Madras state for three years and subsequently as a Member of Parliament for several years. The Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya, founded by him in 1930, has now grown into the major educational complex of the Ramakrishna Mission in the South with as many as twelve institutions and more than 3500 students in the campus, offering facilities for education from pre-school to Ph.D., levels. Service to the poor, the well-being of students, and the growth and prosperity of our nation -- these were uppermost in his mind till the last. He was a source of inspiration to many who came in contact with him. He led a simple and regulated life of devotion to Sri Guru Maharaj and was well known for his affectionate and hospitable nature.
23rd November 1991 : Swami Asthananda (Ramapati) : Announced to the Public in December 1991
Swami Asthananda (Ramapati) passed away suddenly on the 23rd November '91 at 5 a.m., at our Cossipore centre due to acute myocardial infarction. He was 75. The Swami was in fairly good health and visited Belur Math the previous day. Blessed with Mantra Diksha by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1935, he joined the Order at Sarisha in 1941 and received sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1955. Besides his joining centre, he served at Ranchi Sanatorium, Belur Math, Seva Pratishthan, Kamarpukur, Ramharipur, Patna, Tamluk and Varanasi Home of Service. Also, he was Head of Puri Mission for a short period. Gentle, amiable and kind-hearted, he endeared himself to everyone.
23 November 1991 : Swami Nihsreyasananda (Raman Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in Dec. 1991
Swami Nihsreyasananda (Raman Maharaj) passed away at Johannesburg, South Africa, on the 23rd November '91 at 3-40 p.m., owing to cardio-respiratory failure. He was 92. Though the Swami had been suffering of late from some old-age ailments, his general health was considerably good. He was even touring in different places of his work till his last days. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1924 at Madras Math, the Swami joined the Order the same year at Trichur and received Sannyasa from his Guru in 1932. Besides Trichur Ashrama, he served at our centres in Ceylon, Madras (Math), Rajahmundry and Ootacamund. He founded Vishakhapatnam Ashrama in 1939 and was its Head till 1948 when he was appointed Head of our Mauritius Centre. Between 1950 and 1959 he served at Madras Vivekananda College, participated in relief work and was also the joint editor of Prabuddha Bharata for two years. In 1959 he left for South Africa with an adventurous mission to spread the message of Ramakrishna Vivekananda there. He successfully established several small private centres and formal groups of devotees in South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. A scholar and expert in yogasanas, the Swami was an eloquent speaker and worked with indefatigable energy all through his life. In his passing away, the Order has sustained a great loss, no doubt.
30th November 1991 : Swami Dakshananda (Basanta) : Announced to the Public in December 1991
Swami Dakshananda (Basanta), aged 88, passed away at Belur Math on the 30th November '91 at 8 p.m., the cause of death being sudden heart failure. Except for a few geriatric problems, the Swami had no serious complaints. Blessed by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj with Mantra Diksha, he joined the Order in 1937 at Faridpur (Bangladesh) Ashrama and received Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. He was the Pujari of Swami Brahmananda temple at Belur Math for six years from 1944 and thereafter he served at Chandipur Math till 1963. Then he retired from active life and was staying in Arogya Bhavan at Belur Math. Always cheerful and contented, he was popular among the monks and devotees.
6th December 1991 : Swami Shaktirupananda (Sudhin Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 1992 Swami Shaktirupananda (Sudhin Maharaj), aged 90, passed away at Jayrambati Ashrama on the 6th December 1991 at 9-55 p.m. For the past few years the Swami was suffering form general debility and old-age ailments. Initiated by Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1926 at Deoghar and received Sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1932. He served at Belur Math, Jamshedpur and Narendrapur centres and was the Head of Gadadhar Ashrama. The Swami also participated in flood relief work in Gujarat for some time. Since 1981 he was staying at the Matri Mandir, Jayrambati. The Swami was unassuming and austere in habit.
9th December 1991: Swami Ritatmananda (Kuttappa Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in January 1992)
Swami Ritatmananda (Kuttappa Maharaj), aged 94, passed away at the Ulsoor (Bangalore) Ashrama on the 9th December 1991 at 00.35 a.m. He had been suffering from intestinal cancer for some years. In recent months his condition became acute. On the 25th October he was admitted into a nursing home for treatment and was discharged on the 22nd November. But his health continued to deteriorate, although the best available medical care was provided. The Swami joined the Order in 1929 at Ponnampet, received Mantra Diksha from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. Except for one year at the joining centre, the Swami spent his monastic life at Mysore (1931-39) and Bangalore (1939-91). Simple and jovial by nature, he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
2nd January 1992 : Swami Nityabodhananda (Balan /Balkrishnan) : Announced to the Public in February 1992
Swami Nityabodhananda (Balan /Balkrishnan) passed away in a hospital at Calicut on the 2nd January 1992 at 00-15 a.m. due to liver abscesses and kidney failure. He was 78. A fortnight prior to that the Swami had suddenly become indisposed with cough, cold, fever and jaundice. On examination liver abscesses and kidney failure were detected. In spite of best medical attention, his condition rapidly grew worse. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1937 and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1947. After serving at Trichur Ashrama for three years, he became the editor of “The Vedanta Kesari”. He was the head of Rangoon and Rajahmundry centres before being sent to Gretz (France) as assistant Minister. From 1958 onwards he was the Head of Geneva (Switzerland) centre. The Swami returned to India for good in 1988 and since then he was leading a retired life at Ulsoor, and finally settled at Quilandy. Very gentle and a good conversationalist, the Swami was admired for his amiable nature. With a few publications in French to his credit, the Swami continued his scholarly pursuits till his last.
5th January 1992 : Swami Satyamayananda (Sunil) : Announced to the Public in February 1992
Swami Satyamayananda (Sunil), aged 59, passed away at Belur Math on the 5th January 1992 at 9-45 p.m., the cause of death being acute myocardial infarction. He had been suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular problems for some years, but the end came most unexpectedly. Initiated by Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj he joined at our Karimganj centre in 1959 and received sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1968. Apart from his joining centre he served at Shillong and Narendrapur, and looked after Belur Math kitchen garden from 1981 onwards. Outspoken, jovial and warm-hearted, the Swami was quite popular among his brothers.
29th February 1992 : Swami Nrisimhananda (Subrayan) : Announced to the Public in March 1992
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Nrisimhananda (Subrayan) at Adur (Kerala) on the 29th February (1992) night. He was 98. The Swami had been suffering from various old-age ailments for the past few years. Initiated by Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj in 1918, he joined the Order at Haripad in 1924 and had sannyasa from his Guru in 1925. Besides his joining centre, he served at our Ashramas in Alleppey, Tiruvalla and Trivandrum (in those days Ashramas at Haripad and Alleppey were our centres). For about 58 years he had been staying at Adur independently and serving the Harijans there. He also worked tirelessly over four decades amongst the lepers of the Leprosy Sanatorium at Nooranad (Kerala), a place about 14 km From Adur. Austere by nature and simple in habits, the Swami was respected much for his service to lepers.
10th June 1992 : Swami Vareshananda (Ramanath) : Announced to the Public in July 1992
Swami Vareshananda (Ramanath), aged 73, passed away at the Varanasi Home of Service on the 10th June 1992 at 1-30 a.m. He was admitted into the Sevashrama hospital for congestive heart failure on the 9th April. He had been suffering from hypertension and diabetes for the last few years. His body was consigned to the Ganga in accordance with the local tradition. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Ponnampet centre in 1941 and had Sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Besides being Head of Kankhal Sevashrama and Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, he served in our centres at Madras (Math), Varanasi (Sevashrama), Mayavati, Ranchi (Sanatorium) and Delhi. After retiring from active life he had been staying in the Sadhu Nivas at Varanasi Sevashrama since September '88. Hardworking and jovial by nature, the Swami had a loving personality.
21st June 1992 : Swami Vedantananda (Anukul Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in July 1992
Swami Vedantananda (Anukul Maharaj) passed away at Varanasi Home of Service on the 21st June 1992 at 3 a.m., owing to renal failure. He was 92. He was admitted into the Sevashrama hospital on the 14th June for acute urinary infection. His body was given Jalasamadhi in the Ganga. Blessed with initiation by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Sarisha Ashrama in 1922 and received sannyasa from his Guru in 1928. He was one of the founders of our Ranchi Sanatorium centre; he was also its Head from 1948 to 1971. He was appointed Secretary of Patna centre in 1973. He had been leading a retired life since 1986, spending his time mostly at Patna and Varanasi Sevashrama centres. The Swami was a scholar and has a few books to his credit. He was respected for his austere Sadhu life.
22nd June 1992 : Swami Mitrananda (Nanigopal) : Announced to the Public in July 1992
Swami Mitrananda (Nanigopal), aged 73, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on the 22nd June 1992 at 4.30 p.m. The Swami was suffering from blood cancer for the last five years. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1947 and received sannyasa from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj in 1957. Besides his joining centre, he served at Jamshedpur, Belur Math Headquarters office, Allahabad and Madras Math. He was also Head of Jalpaiguri, Katihar, Deoghar and Asansol centres. He had been leading a retired life since 1988. Unassuming and very kind-hearted, the Swami endeared himself to all those who came in touch with him.
26th August 1992 : Swami Devananda ji (Devendra Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in September 1992
Swami Devananda ji (Devendra Maharaj) passed away at Seva Pratishthan on the 26th August 1992 at 2-15 a.m. He was 95. Though he had been suffering from various old-age ailments for quite some time, his condition deteriorated fast during the last few days. Nevertheless he was quite alert and cheerful till the end. Blessed with initiation by Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1917 at Kankhal Sevashrama and had sannyasa from his Guru in 1921. He was the Head of Mymensingh, Dinajpur, Shillong, Faridpur, Barisal and Balaram Mandir centres. From 1961 to the beginning of 1976 he was staying in Cossipore Ashrama; then onwards he was leading a retired life at Belur Math. The Swami was loved and respected by one and all for his extraordinarily sweet and loving nature.
20th September 1992 : Swami Smaraharananda (Achyutan) : Announced to the Public in October 1992
Swami Smaraharananda (Achyutan), aged 95, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on the 20th September 1992 at 11-30 a.m. He was admitted into the Hospital on the 14th September following chest complaint. An initiated disciple of Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1934 in Ottapalam (Kerala) Ashrama and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1943. The Swami spent most of his life in Kanchipuram centre, initially as a worker and from 1972 as its Head. After retiring from active service in 1976, he stayed at Nettayam, Ulsoor and Varanasi Home of Service, and then finally came to Belur Math in December 1990. Always cheerful and jovial, he was known for his simple and unassuming nature.
22nd October 1992: Swami Nityaswarupananda ji (Chintaharan Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in November 1992)
Swami Nityaswarupananda ji (Chintaharan Maharaj) passed away at the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, on the 22nd October 1992 at 12.30 p.m. owing to acute myocardial infarction. He was 93. Four months ago he had been hospitalized for about nine weeks. He was keeping tolerably well even up to his last day, and the end came quite suddenly. Blessed with initiation by the Holy Mother, the Swami joined the Order at Belur Math in 1925 and received sannyasa from Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj in 1927. He was fortunate to have the holy association of some of the direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. He was the founder Secretary of the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, and was also the head of Udbodhan (Baghbazar Math) centre for a few years. After retiring from active life in 1973, the Swami mostly stayed in Delhi, the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, and Belur Math. He was well known for his meticulous way of doing things and was a good conversationalist and idealistic by nature. The Swami has a couple of books to his credit.
29th October 1992 : Swami Kashishwaranada ji (Balai Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in November 1992
Swami Kashishwaranada ji (Balai Maharaj), aged 95, breathed his last at the Seva Pratishthan hospital, Calcutta, on the 29th October 1992 at 9-20 p.m. He had been admitted into the hospital that morning. Though he was keeping fairly well for his age, his health broke down during the last two months. Initiated by Srimat Swami Brahmananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the order at Mihijam Vidyapith (now Deoghar Vidyapith) in 1922 and received sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1928. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Math and our centres in Bhubaneswar, Garbeta and Dhaka. He spent many years at our Lalgarh retreat centre and a private Ashrama at Khatra (Dist. Bankura). Since 1974 he was staying at our Kamarpukur Ashrama and moved to Belur Math in 1986. He was held in high respect for his holy life, simplicity, kindheartedness, and austere and self-effacing nature.
30th December 1992 : Swami Anamananda (Kenneth R. Critchfield) : Announced to the Public in February 1993
Swami Anamananda (Kenneth R. Critchfield) passed away at our Trabuco Canyon (Hollywood) monastery on 30th December 1992 at 1-30 a.m. He was 79. The Swami was often bed-ridden for the last few years due to complications resulting from a broken hip. An initiated disciple of Swami Prabhavananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1948 at our Hollywood centre and was ordained into sannyasa by Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. Besides his joining centre, the Swami served in our centre in Chicago and spent the last 11 years at the Trabuco monastery. A memorial service was held in the Hollywood monastery on 16th January in which tributes were paid to the Swami for his 44 years of dedicated service to the cause of the Master. He served senior monks with much love.
29th January 1993 : Swami Jneyananda (Bharat) : Announced to the Public in February 1993
Swami Jneyananda (Bharat), aged 77, passed away at Ulsoor Ashrama on 29th January 1993 at 11-30 p.m. For the past some months he was confined to bed because his lungs and other vital organs were severely affected by cancer. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1945 at Karachi centre and had sannyasa in 1957 from Swami Sankarananda ji Maharaj. Besides participating in the East Punjab Refugee relief at Kurukshetra in 1947, he served in our centres at Rangoon, Puri (Math), Kankhal, Chandigarh, Bombay, Salem, Institute of Culture (Calcutta), Kamarpukur, Bangalore and Seva Pratishthan (Calcutta). Since 1989 he was staying at our Ulsoor Sadhu Nivas. Simple and jovial, the Swami endeared himself to many.
20th February 1993 : Swami Marshananda (Narayan) : Announced to the Public in March 1993
Swami Marshananda (Narayan) passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 20th February 1993 at 4-50 a.m. He was 69. He had been admitted into the hospital in mid-October last year for the treatment of cancer. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1947 at Kankhal Sevashrama and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1957. Besides his joining centre, the Swami served our centres at Varanasi (both centres), Shyamla Tal, Bombay, Gadadhar Ashrama (Calcutta) and Patna. He was pujari of Sri Raja Maharaj temple at Belur Math for a few years. From 1983 he was leading a retired life at Belur Math. He was known for his simple and austere life.
8th April 1993 Swami Nirvairananda (Rohini) : Announced to the Public in May 1993
Swami Nirvairananda (Rohini) passed away at Varanasi Home of Service hospital on 8th April 1993 at 2 p.m. He was 81. The Swami was admitted into the hospital on 8th March for acute gastroenteritis and anal fissure troubles. In spite of best medical care, his health deteriorated rapidly. He was a diabetic patient also. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj , he joined the Order at Silchar Ashrama in 1937 and received sannyasa in 1946 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Besides his joining centre, the Swami served at Gadadhar Ashrama (Calcutta), Saradapitha (Belur) and Jalpaiguri Ashrama. He also participated in Deoghar drought relief work. From 1968 onwards the Swami was staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama, first as a monastic assistant and later as a retired monk. Kind-hearted, jovial and always ready to serve others, the Swami endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
24th May 1993 : Swami Jitananda (Dinabandhu) : Announced to the Public in June 1993
Swami Jitananda (Dinabandhu) passed away at the Varanasi Sevashrama hospital on 24th May 1993 at 10-10 p.m. He was 76. The Swami had gone to New Delhi for eye treatment where he had a cerebral stroke. He had preliminary treatment there. In accordance with his earnest wish, he was brought to Varanasi and the treatment continued. But he failed to recover. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1948 at New Delhi centre and received Sannyasa in 1957 from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj. The Swami also served at Seva Pratishthan (Calcutta), Kankhal, Rajkot and Vrindaban centres and participated in Jammu & Kashmir relief work during 1965-66. He was the Head of Shyamla Tal centre form 1968 to 1980. Retired form active life, the Swami was staying at our Varanasi Sadhu Nivas since 1991. He had a special interest in flower gardening and mountaineering. Simple and unassuming by nature, the Swami was known for his amiable disposition.
15th June 1993 Swami Prasannananda (Kantaraj) : Announced to the Public in July 1993
Swami Prasannananda (Ksantaraj) passed away on 15th June 1993 at 4.15 p.m. at the Seva Pratishthan (Calcutta) hospital. He was 79. His was a case of cerebral atrophy. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1936 at Bangalore Ashrama and had Sannyasa in 1945 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Apart from his joining centre, he served at Institute of Culture (Calcutta), Kankhal, Mysore and Seva Pratishthan (Calcutta) centres. He was leading a retired life from March '92 onwards at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan. With his simplicity of life, unassuming nature, kindheartedness and strict adherence to duty, he endeared himself to all those who came in contact with him.
30th September 1993 : Swami Uddhavananda (Sitarama) : Announced to the Public in October 1993
Swami Uddhavananda (Sitarama) passed away at Vijaya Health Centre in Madras on 30th September 1993 at 4-45 a.m. He was 65. He was suffering from stomach cancer and had been confined to bed for the last couple of months. He was conscious, cheerful and contented till his last. An initiated disciple of Swami Yatiswarananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Madras Math in 1954 and received sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. Apart form his joining centre, he served at Mangalore, Vrindaban, and Madras Students’ Home centres. He was the Head of Madras Mission Ashrama from 1976 and continued in that capacity till July this year. During his tenure the centre underwent considerable development. He did extensive relief work in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and for Sri Lankan refugees. Everyone who came in contact with him was touched by his loving concern for others, affection, and unstinted hospitality. Large-hearted and simple, he endeared himself to one and all.
2nd October 1993 : Swami Saukhyananda (Murari) : Announced to the Public in November 1993
Swami Saukhyananda (Murari), aged 76, passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 2nd October 1993 at 12-45 p.m. He had been suffering from diabetes and ischaemia of the heart and other old-age ailments for several months. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Dhaka (Bangladesh) centre in 1941 and received sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1953. He served at Belur Math and our centres in Allahabad, Kankhal, Vrindaban and Varanasi (Advaita Ashrama). He was also engaged in Bihar relief work for a short period. From August '91 he was leading a retired life at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan. He was a monk of unassuming nature and simple habits.
17th October 1993 : Swami Sanmayananda (Achintya) (Announced to the Public in November 1993)
Swami Sanmayananda (Achintya) passed away at the Seva Pratishthan on 17th October 1993 at 5.25 p.m. He was 81. His was a case of brochopneumonia and Parkinson’s disease. Blessed with initiation by Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in Dinajpur (Bangladesh) in 1938 and received sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1947. Besides his joining centre he served at Sargachhi, Bhubaneswar, Gadadhar Ashrama (Calcutta), Tamluk, Bankura, Ramharipur and Narendrapur. Retired from active life, he was staying at Belur Math Arogya Bhavan from 1984. Very kind-hearted and sweet-natured, the Swami endeared himself to all who came in touch with him.
2nd December 1993 : Swami Bhavyananda (Arjun) : Announced to the Public in January 1994
Swami Bhavyananda (Arjun) passed away on 2nd December 1993 at 2 p.m. in St. Mary’s Hospital, Westminster, UK, the cause of death being cardiogenic shock due to severe coronary artery disease with acute renal failure. He was 74. Following acute heart pain the Swami was admitted to the hospital on 30th November. Experts attended on him and he was feeling somewhat better, but on 2nd December at about 11 a.m., his heart functioning stopped for a minute and with prompt medical aid and emergency treatment it was restored. However, at 2 p.m. the end came suddenly after a massive heart attack. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Karachi in 1943 and received sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. After the closure of Karachi centre he was transferred to Vrindaban and then to Mayavati. In 1952 he was sent to Shillong Ashrama; he became its Head in 1961. He assumed charge of London centre in August '69 and continued in that capacity till his last. Extremely generous and kindhearted, the Swami was loved and respected by one and all. His was a life absolutely resigned to the Master, and in him the Order has lost one of its best soldiers.
22nd January 1994 : Swami Ritajananda (Parasuram Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in February 1994)
Swami Ritajananda (Parasuram Maharaj), aged 87, passed away in Gretz centre on 22nd January 1994 at 00.15 a.m. owing to cardio-respiratory failure. Since February ’93 he had been hospitalized four times for his ischemic heart disease. During the last few days of his illness he experienced little pain and was in a serene state of mind. He was conscious and cheerful till his last. Blessed with initiation by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1932 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. The Swami served at Deoghar, Colombo and Madras Students’ Home centres. He was also the editor of the Telugu monthly journal Ramakrishna Prabha published by Madras Math. Between 1954 and 1961 he served as an Assistant Minister in the Ramakrishna-Vivekananda Centre, New York, and at the Hollywood centre. He was appointed the head of Gretz centre in 1961 and continued in that capacity till the end. An erudite scholar, the Swami has a few books to his credit. Very loving and compassionate, he was a helpful spiritual guide and sympathetic friend to all those who came in touch with him.
24th January 1994 : Swami Sauryananda (Naren Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in February 1994
Swami Sauryananda (Naren Maharaj) breathed his last at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 24th January 1994 at 1 p.m. He was 88. Following a sudden heart attack on 16th January he was admitted to the hospital the same day. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Calcutta Students’ Home (now at Belgharia) in 1931 and had sannyasa in 1941 from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj. Apart form his joining centre, he served at Belur Math, and Deoghar, Seva Pratishthan (Calcutta) and Rajkot centres. The Swami also participated in the Punjab refugee relief work in 1947. From 1975 he was staying at Belur Math as a retired monk. Austere, simple and unassuming, the Swami endeared himself to one and all.
18th March 1994 : Swami Samahitanada (Vasudev) : Announced to the Public in April 1994
Swami Samahitanada (Vasudev), aged 85, passed away at Varanasi Home of Service hospital on 18th March 1994 at 12.15 p.m. He had been suffering from various old-age ailments for quite some time. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order in 1932 at Kankhal Ashrama and received Sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1943. Besides his joining centre, he served at Ranchi (Morabadi), Narayanganj, Varanasi Advaita Ashrama and Home of Service, Vrindaban, Kalimpong, Jayrambati and Deoghar. Retired from active life, he had been staying at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama for the last few years. Simple and unassuming, the Swami was respected for his austere life.
24th March 1994 : Swami Indrananda (Sushil) : Announced to the Public in April 1994
Swami Indrananda (Sushil) passed away at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta, on 24th March at 00.55 a.m., owing to cerebral stroke. He was 72. The Swami was hale and hearty till 21st early morning. At about 9 a.m. that day he had a fall on the steps leading to the Ganga at Swamiji’s Ghat in Belur Math which left him unconscious. Immediately he was taken to the Hospital. Although all available medical care was provided, he did not recover. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Jalpaiguri Ashrama in 1947 and had Sannyasa in 1956 from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj. He served at Vrindaban, Ranchi Sanatorium, Seva Pratishthan, Kankhal, Varanasi Home of Service and Belur Math. He was the Sevak of Swami Shantananda ji Maharaj for a long period (from 1956 to 1974). Since 1984 he had been staying at Belur Math as a retired monk. Jovial and very kind-hearted, the Swami endeared himself to one and all.
29th May 1994 : Swami Stutyananda (Sunil) : Announced to the Public in June 1994
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Stutyananda (Sunil), aged 71, at the Lucknow Sevashrama on 29th May at 11.45 a.m. owing to myocardial infarction. He had a history of ischaemic heart and hypertension. Following persistent cardiac problems, he went to Lucknow on 2nd April for a thorough check-up and treatment. He showed considerable improvement and was expected to return to Varanasi on 6th instant. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, the Swami joined the Order at Kalimpong in 1948 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1957. He served in our centres at Bankura, Vrindaban, Madras Math, New Delhi and Varanasi Home of Service and was a Sevak of Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj during 1952-53. He was in charge of Varanasi Home of Service for about six Months in 1974 and that of Bhubaneswar centre from 1975 to 1989. The Swami was also engaged in relief work in Cooch Behar, Agartala and 24-Paraganas in the 1950s. Retired from active life on health ground, he had been staying at Varanasi Home of Service Sadhu Nivas since 1989. Always cheerful, he endeared himself with his pleasing manners to one and all.
31st May 1996: Swami Shantaswarupananda (Parvati Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in June 1996)
Swami Shantaswarupananda (Parvati Maharaj), aged 95, passed away at Ramakrishna Math, Lucknow, on 31st May 1996 at 00.20 hrs owing to sudden cardio-respiratory failure. The Swami was keeping fairly good health for his age. He had supper around 9 o’clock that night, had a brief chat with monastic brothers, and retired as usual. Around midnight he complained of breathing difficulty, and doctors were rushed in. However, all efforts to save his life failed. The Swami was cheerful and conscious till the last. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1922, he joined the Order at Calcutta Students’ Home in 1925 and had Sannyasa from his Guru in 1930. After spending about two years in the Study Circle of Mysore, from 1934 to 1936, he served at Rangoon Society from 1937 to 1940 and Mayavati Advaita Ashrama and its branch at Calcutta from 1940 to 1948. He was sent to San Francisco (USA) in 1948 to assist Swami Ashokananda. During his stay at the Vedanta Society of Northern California from 1948 to 1970 he spent about 20 years at the Berkeley sub-centre as Resident Minister. He was Head of San Francisco centre for about a year in 1970. He was leading a retired life at the Lucknow centre after his return from USA in December 1970. Known for his exceptionally sweet and kind-hearted nature, many found peace and solace in his holy company. He was loved and respected by one and all.
15th June 1996: Swami Muktananda (Banbehari Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in July 1996)
Swami Muktananda (Banbehari Maharaj) aged 93, passed away on 15th June 1996 at 8.40 a.m. at Varanasi Home of Service. He had been disabled and almost bed-ridden for the last one year due to osteo-arthritis. Otherwise, for two or three months prior to his passing away he had had no complaints. Even on the day of his passing away, he followed his daily routine, had his breakfast and visited the Advaita Ashrama temple on a wheel chair. At about 8.35 a.m. he complained of breathing difficulty, and in a few minutes he expired due to cardio-respiratory failure. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Contai centre in 1926 and had Sannyasa from Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1937. Besides his joining centre, he served our Midnapore Ashrama from 1927 to 1928 and Varanasi Home of Service from 1929 till he became disabled a year back. For more than 35 years he worked in the outdoor department of the Home dressing the wounds of thousands of patients with his own hands. Very kind-hearted and self-effacing, the Swami was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
25th May 1997: Swami Swananda (Sunil) (Announced to the Public in June 1997)
Swami Swananda (Sunil), aged 77, breathed his last on 25th May 1997 at 4.15 p.m. at the Varanasi Home of Service hospital. He had been admitted to the hospital on 27th April for a thorough medical check-up for his digestive problem. Investigations revealed nothing serious and he was about to be discharged. However, on 18th May, while going to the toilet attached to his room, he fell down in the room itself and had a deep cut on the forehead which was immediately stitched. But the head injury made him unconscious due to severe haemorrhage in the brain. He remained in a coma till the end and, despite the best available medical care, he did not recover. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1947 and received Sannyasa vows in 1957 from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj. He was the Head of Patna, Saradapitha (Belur), Berkeley (USA), New Delhi, and Mayavati centres. Besides, he served at our Cherrapunji Ashrama, Rangoon Society, and the Headquarters Office. He had been leading a retired life at the Varanasi Home of Service for the last three years. His unassuming and austere nature, simplicity, and scholarly pursuits earned him the respect and admiration of the entire monastic community.
23rd September 1997: Swami Yogishananda (Umesh Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in October 1997)
Swami Yogishananda (Umesh Maharaj) aged 89, breathed his last at our Varanasi Sevashrama hospital on 23rd September 1997 at 00.40 hours. He had been almost bed-ridden for the last two years owing to various old-age ailments. On the 18th he developed fever due to urinary tract infection and was admitted to the hospital. His condition showed some improvement on the 20th and the 21st, but on the 22nd evening he developed respiratory distress and, despite all possible medical aid, he did not recover. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Dhaka centre in 1928 and had Sannyasa from Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1937. He served at our Ashramas in Mymensingh, Mayavati, Calcutta (Advaita Ashrama), Kankhal and Varanasi (Home of Service). The Swami had a calm and quiet nature. He led a dedicated life and was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
16th February 1998: Swami Pavanananda ji (Colin Edward Reid / Shambhu Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in March 1998)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Pavanananda ji (Colin Edward Reid/Shambhu Maharaj) at Seva Pratishthan on 16th February 1998 at 00.30 a.m. He was 89. He had been suffering from diabetes and prostate problems and was admitted to the hospital on 14th February. Initiated by Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1930, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1931 and received Sannyasa vows from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1940. Apart from Belur Math, he served the Order at Deoghar, Mayavati and Rahara centres and also did East Pakistan Refugee Relief in 1948. He was the head of Deoghar Vidyapith for one year in 1963-64. He had been leading a retired life at the Vidyapith since 1972. The Swami was simple, ever cheerful, and kind-hearted to everyone. In him the order has lost one of its venerable senior monks.
2nd March 1998: Swami Sundananda (Gopal) (Announced to the Public in April 1998)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Sundananda (Gopal), head of Mangalore centre, on 2nd March 1998 at 6.15 a.m. at the Mangalore Ashrama owing to acute myocardial infarction uraemia and gastrointestinal haemorrhage. He was 72. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the order at Madras Math in 1946 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1956. He served at Mangalore centre from 1951 to 1981 as a monastic assistant and then onwards as the head of the centre till the last. The Swami was affectionate and kind-hearted and was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
6th April 1998: Swami Amalananda (Siddheswar Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in May 1998)
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Amalananda (Siddheswar Maharaj), Head of Belgharia centre, on 6th April 1998 at 3.35 a.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to cancer of gall bladder. He was 80. He was admitted to the hospital first from 12th January to 6th February and finally on the 31st of March. Initiated by Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj in 1934, he joined the Order at Calcutta Students’ Home in 1942 and had Sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1953. He was appointed head of the Students’ Home in 1986 and served it in that capacity till the end. Simple, affectionate and unassuming, the Swami was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
18th June 1998: Swami Adityananda ji (Vibhuti Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in July 1998)
Swami Adityananda ji (Vibhuti Maharaj), aged 98, passed away on 18th June 1998 at 12.50 hrs at Seva Pratishthan. He had been suffering from various old-age ailments and was admitted to the hospital on 10th June. He joined the Order at Sarisha Ashrama in 1928, had brahmacharya diksha from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1933 and sannyasa from Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1938. He served at Sarisha Ashrama till 1990 after which he was leading a retired life there. The swami was simple, cheerful and devoted to scriptural studies.
28th June 1998: Swami Ijyananda (Dhurjati Maharaj) (Announced to the Public in July 1998)
Swami Ijyananda (Dhurjati Maharaj), Head of Guwahati centre, expired on 28th June 1998 at 3.30 a.m. at Guwahati Ashrama owing to massive heart attack. He was 85. Although he had been suffering from hypertension and diabetes, he was quite active till the previous night. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj in 1936, he joined the Order at Jamtara Ashrama in 1941 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Apart from his joining centre, he served at Belur Math and Tamluk, Jalpaiguri, Bombay and Rangoon (Sevashrama) centres. He was the head of Jalpaiguri centre for 10 years from 1965 and that of Guwahati centre from 1975 till the last. The Guwahati centre at its new site owes its present well-planned development and beautiful atmosphere almost entirely to the dedicated work of the swami. He was loved for his simple and devout nature.
11th July 1998: Swami Jayadevananda (Deviprasad) : Announced to the Public in August 1998
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Jayadevananda (Deviprasad), aged 75, on 11th July 1998 at 1.55 p.m. at Seva Pratishthan, Calcutta. He had been suffering from high blood pressure, kidney problems and ischaemic heart disease, and was admitted to the hospital on 6th February. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1945, he joined the Order at Saradapitha (Belur) in 1970 and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1978. Apart from his joining centre, he served at Malda Ashrama, and was the Principal of the Training Centre at Belur Math for five years and the Head of Seva Pratishthan and Singapore centres for two and five years respectively. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math since the end of 1996. Simple, austere, affectionate and hard-working, the Swami was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
10th August 1998: Srimat Swami Bhuteshananda ji’s Maharaj : Announced to the Public in September 1998
The sad news of the passing away of our dear and revered President, Srimat Swami Bhuteshananda ji Maharaj, at Kothari Medical Centre, Calcutta, on Monday, 10th August 1998, at 2.28 p.m. was communicated to all our centres over the phone and by fax on the 10th and also through a letter dated 13.8.98 sent by fax and speed post.
During the last one year he had been admitted to the hospital three times for investigation and treatment of gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The intensity of bleeding on those occasions was much less and it was stopped successfully. However, on 4th August, the bleeding started again, and the next day noon excessive bleeding was noticed. Immediately he was rushed to Peerless General Hospital, Calcutta, for intestinal angiography and treatment. But the bleeding spots could not be pin-pointed, and being left with no other option, and after examining the general condition of his health, the doctors decided on surgical intervention. For this purpose, he was shifted to Kothari Medical Centre on 7th August around 4.00 p.m. Till he was taken to the operation theatre at about 8.00 p.m., in spite of the discomfort, revered Maharaj was cheerful and was cracking jokes with the doctors, and blessed the visiting swamis. The operation was performed that very night, and he was kept in the ICCU of the hospital under close observation. Around 10.00 a.m. the following day (8th) it was noticed that, in spite of the operation, profuse bleeding continued; so he was operated upon once again at about 1.30 p.m. Doctors quickly detected and sealed the bleeding points. He was brought back to the ICCU and was put on life-saving support. His condition began to cause anxiety from 8th evening. On 9th morning his blood pressure fell very low and his overall condition worsened to such an extent that the doctors lost almost all hope. However, with medicines his blood pressure began to rise, and by 8.10 p.m. that day he underwent ultra-filtration and dialysis for about 6½ hours for removal of accumulated water and other fluids in the system. He continued to maintain adequate blood pressure, and on the 10th morning at 10.30 a.m. he underwent a second dialysis. But, unfortunately, around 2.10 p.m. his condition rapidly deteriorated, and he attained Mahasamadhi at 2.28 p.m. According to the medical report, the cause of death was “post-operative multiple organ failure in a case of massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage”. He was 97.
The sad news of revered Maharaj’s passing away was broadcast over radio and television the same night and published in the newspapers the following morning. His body was brought to
the Math at 6.00 p.m. and was kept in a spacious hall opposite to the old Arogya Bhavan. Our monastic members from branch centres, and thousands of disciples, devotees, friends and sympathizers, with floral offerings, poured in all through the night in an unending stream, and paid their last respects. On 11th morning at 10.30 a.m. the body of revered Maharaj was taken in a procession to the courtyard in front of the Math Office and kept on a high platform in a decorated pandal where it remained till 1.45 p.m. The last rites of cremation started at 2.20 p.m. and were over by 6.00 p.m. It is estimated that more than 1.5 lakhs of people came to pay their last homage to revered Maharaj.
Special Puja and Bhandara were held at Belur Math on 22nd August when Prasad was served to about 60,000 devotees. The memorial meeting, presided over by Swami Atmasthananda ji and addressed among others by the General Secretary, was held in the afternoon in a well-decorated pandal on the lawn to the east of Sri Ramakrishna Temple. It is estimated that over two lakhs of people attended the whole-day function.
Born on 8th September 1901 at Somsar village in the district of Bankura, West Bengal, Swami Bhuteshananda ji was known in his pre-monastic days as Bijoy Chandra Roy. After graduating from Government Sanskrit College, Calcutta, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1923. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1928. He had the privilege of meeting Holy Mother and several direct disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. He served in various capacities at Dhaka, Mysore and Madras centres. He was the Head of Shillong centre from 1936 to 1945 and of Rajkot centre from 1945 to 1966. He also did relief work at several places : flood relief in Midnapore district in 1926, flood & cholera relief at Dhaka in 1931, Burma evacuees’ relief at Dimapur in 1945, and the earthquake relief in Kutch in 1956. He was elected a Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and Member of the Governing Body of Ramakrishna Mission in 1965 and was made an Assistant Secretary of the Math and Mission at Belur Math the next year. In 1975 he became a Vice-President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission and concurrently the Head of Kankurgachhi centre. He was elected the President of the twin organizations in 1989.
Both as Vice-President and President he travelled extensively in India, the Far East and the West. He gave spiritual initiation to more than a lakh of disciples, and was an unfailing source of inspiration and guidance to thousands of people. He was an erudite scholar and original thinker. From his speeches and class-talks some books have been brought out, of which Sri Sri Ramakrishna Kathamrita Prasanga (in six volumes), Kathopanishad, Mundakopanishad, Upanishad o Ajker Manush, Sharanagati, Mantra Diksha, Sri Ramakrishner Bhavadarsha, Sri Ramakrishna o Yugadharma, Swami Vivekananda evam Ajker Yuva Samaj, Bhagawan Labher Tatparya, and Bhagwan Labher Upay are in Bengali, and Thoughts on Spiritual Life in English. During his last days he was engaged in editing his lectures on Narada Bhakti Sutras which are expected to be published shortly both in English and Bengali.
His Mahasamadhi has created a big void in the lives of monastics and devotees, and is an irreparable loss to the Organization. He was a beacon of spiritual light at Belur Math for nearly a decade, and was loved and revered by all for his affectionate and sympathetic nature, profound scholarship and wisdom, unassuming simplicity, and spiritual fervour.
18th August 1998: Swami Bhagavatananda (Shashikant) : Announced to the Public in September 1998
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Bhagavatananda (Shashikant), aged 60, at Varanasi Home of Service hospital on 18th August 1998 at 12.00 midnight. He had been suffering from malignant brain tumour, which was diagnosed in January this year. He underwent surgery for the same at Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, followed by radiation therapy at Tata Institute of Cancer Research, Mumbai. As desired by him he was brought to Varanasi in April, where it was found that the tumour had reappeared and was growing. His general health gradually deteriorated and the end came peacefully on the 18th. Initiated by Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Bombay Ashrama in 1962 and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1972. Besides his joining centre, he served at the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, and Advaita Ashrama (both at Mayavati and Calcutta), and was an Acharya in the Training Centre, Belur Math, for four years, and the Head of Katihar and Kanpur centres for eight and four years respectively. The Swami was affectionate and hard-working, and a good speaker.
9th November 1998: Swami Shikshananda (Kudva Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1998
Swami Shikshananda (Kudva Maharaj) passed away on 9th November 1998 at 2.00 p.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to cancer of the colon. He was 83. He was admitted to the hospital on 29th October. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1946 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1954. He served at Saradapitha (Belur) for about 20 years, and was an Acharya at the Training Centre, Belur Math, and the head of Ootacamund centre for 18 and 6 years respectively. He had been leading a retired life since 1990--first at Ulsoor Ashrama, Bangalore, and finally at Arogya Bhavan, Belur Math. The Swami was simple, austere, and devoted to scriptural studies, and had earned the respect and love of one and all.
12th November 1998: Swami Dhireshananda ji (Girija Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in December 1998
Swami Dhireshananda ji (Girija Maharaj), aged 91, breathed his last at Kankhal Sevashrama hospital on 12th November 1998 at 10.40 p.m. He had been suffering from chronic bronchiectasis for the last several years and had also developed renal failure four years ago. He was admitted to the hospital about 10 months back. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Saradananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Varanasi Home of Service in 1925 and had sannyasa from Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj in 1932. Besides his joining centre he served at Deoghar, Barisal, Kishanpur, Rajkot, Mysore and Kankhal centres. He had been leading a retired life at Kankhal Sevashrama for the last 11 years. He was an erudite scholar deeply versed in Vedantic scriptures, and led an austere life. He translated a few scriptures into Bengali, and was respected by all for his scholarship and genial nature.
28th November 1998: Swami Vikashananda (Chittaranjan) : Announced to the Public in December 1998
Swami Vikashananda (Chittaranjan), Head of Manasadwip centre, passed away on 28th November 1998 at 10.50 p.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to massive heart attack. He was 66. He had been suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure, and was admitted to the hospital with fever on the 26th. Initiated by Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Kamarpukur Ashrama in 1956 and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1966. Besides his joining centre, he served at Seva Pratishthan, Cherrapunji and Baghbazar centres, and was the head of Katihar and Manasadwip centres for 8 and 10 years respectively. Simple, calm and quiet by nature, the Swami was loved by all who came in contact with him.
6th December 1998: Swami Srivatsananda (Gour) : Announced to the Public in January 1999
Swami Srivatsananda (Gour), aged 74, breathed his last on 6th December 1998 at 9.40 a.m. He had a cerebral stroke followed by paralysis about 16 years ago, and was also suffering from high diabetes. Most of these years he spent as a patient at Seva Pratishthan, except for brief spells at Arogya Bhavan in Belur Math. Initiated by Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1952 at Mumbai Ashrama and had sannyasa from his guru in 1961. Besides his joining centre, he served at Seva Pratishthan, Mayavati, Kanpur, and Varanasi (Home of Service) centres. The Swami was liked for his simple and jovial nature.
31st December 1998: Swami Lokeswarananda ji (Kanai Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 1999
Swami Lokeswarananda ji (Kanai Maharaj), Head of the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, passed away at Kothari Medical Centre, Calcutta, on 31st December 1998 at 7.25 a.m. He was 89. He was admitted to the hospital on the 28th with a ventral hernia complicated by obstruction and infection. His condition deteriorated suddenly around 10 o'clock that night and he suffered severe respiratory distress, for which he was put on ventilator. On the 29th and 30th his condition improved marginally. However, at 5 a.m. on the 31st, the doctors noticed sudden fall in oxygen saturation in blood followed by cardiac arrest. Resuscitation measures failed and he was declared dead at 7.25 a.m. An initiated disciple of Srimat Swami Shivananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order at Deoghar Vidyapith in 1933 and served it as its headmaster. He had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1944. Besides his joining centre he served at Mayavati and Cherrapunji Ashramas, in the latter centre as the headmaster of the school there. He also did relief work in Burma and East Bengal (now Bangladesh). He was the head of Pathuriaghata centre from 1946. It was under his stewardship that the Pathuriaghata centre, started in a humble way, was moved to Narendrapur in 1957 and developed into the huge educational complex that it is today. He was the head of the Institute of Culture from 1973 till the end. Well-read and scholarly, he authored several books in English and Bengali. Some of the major Upanishads were also translated by him into English. He travelled extensively in India, Russia, the Far East, and the West. His affectionate manners, charismatic personality, and boundless energy won him a large number of friends and admirers, in India and abroad. In his demise the Sangha has sustained a great loss. His absence will be felt for a long time.
1st January 1999: Swami Divyarupananda (Samir) : Announced to the Public in January 1999
Swami Divyarupananda (Samir), Head of Cherrapunji centre, expired suddenly at the Institute of Culture, Calcutta, on 1st January 1999 at 7.25 a.m. owing to massive heart attack. He was 54. He had come to Calcutta for some work and was staying at the Institute. Initiated by Swami Omkarananda ji Maharaj he joined the Order at Rahara Boys' Home in 1972 and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1982. Besides his joining centre, he served at Along and Itanagar centres. He had taken charge of Cherrapunji centre only five months ago. The Swami was a good singer. Cheerful, hard-working, and affectionate by nature, he was loved by all who came in contact with him.
1st February 1999: Swami Jivanmuktananda ji (Vasudevan Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in March 1999
Swami Jivanmuktananda ji (Vasudevan Maharaj), aged 86, breathed his last at Kankhal Sevashrama hospital on 1st February 1999 at 8.00 a.m. He had a cerebral stroke followed by paralysis about two weeks ago. Initiated by Swami Nirmalananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Tiruvalla Ashrama in 1931 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1945. Besides his joining centre he served at Kalady, Madras Math, Trichur, Rajahmundry, Varanasi Home of Service, Trivandrum and Kankhal centres. He had been leading a retired life at Kankhal Sevashrama for the last five years. The Swami was cheerful, austere and hard-working.
14th February 1999: Swami Digananda (Parvati Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in March 1999
Swami Digananda (Parvati Maharaj) passed away on 14th February 1999 at 1.45 a.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to kidney failure. He was 69. He had been suffering from Parkinson's Disease and urinary tract infection for a long time and was last admitted to the hospital on 29th January. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Saradapitha (Belur) in 1948 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1958. He served at Belur Math from 1966 to 1990 after which he was leading a retired life at Arogya Bhavan. Simple, affectionate and hard-working, the Swami was loved by all who came in contact with him.
26th February 1999: Swami Vicharananda (Gadai) : Announced to the Public in March 1999
Swami Vicharananda (Gadai), aged 75, expired on 26th February 1999 at 5.15 p.m. at Seva Pratishthan, owing to gastro-intestinal haemorrhage. He joined the Order at Dhaka centre in 1951 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1960. Besides his joining centre, he served at Kanpur, Bombay and Bhubaneswar centres. He served at Belur Math from 1963 to 1976 when he withdrew from active life owing to ill health. He had been leading the retired life at the Math itself. The Swami was loved by all for his affectionate and jovial nature.
20th March 1999: Swami Murtyananda ji (Srikanta Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in April 1999
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Murtyananda ji (Srikanta Maharaj) at Varanasi Home of Service hospital on 20th March 1999 at 3.50 p.m. owing to cerebro-vascular accident. He was 83. He had been suffering from heart disease (arrhythmia) and other old-age ailments for the last several years. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1942 at Bankura centre and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Math and Katihar, Varanasi Home of Service, and Kanpur centres. He had been leading a retired life at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama since 1975. The Swami was proficient in music. Austere and affectionate, he had earned the respect and love of one and all.
9th May 1999: Swami Vyomarupananda ji (Sadashiv Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in June 1999
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Vyomarupananda ji (Sadashiv Maharaj) on 9th May 1999 at 7.20 p.m. at Nagpur Math owing to a massive heart attack. He was 89. He had been suffering from various old-age ailments for the last nine years. Initiated by Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1937 at Nagpur Math and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1946. He was the editor of the Marathi monthly Jivan Vikas and translated a large portion of The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda into Marathi. He was the head of Nagpur centre from 1976 to 1996 when he retired from active life owing to various health problems. Simple, unassuming and cheerful, the Swami was loved and respected by all who came in contact with him.
6th August 1999: Swami Mahendrananda (Basanta) : Announced to the Public in September 1999
Swami Mahendrananda (Basanta) expired at Seva Pratishthan on 6th August 1999 at 6.40 a.m. He was 69. He had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, psychiatric disorder and diabetes, and was admitted to the hospital two months ago. Initiated by Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1952 at Jamtara Math and had sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1963. Apart from his joining centre, he served at Katihar, Manasadwip, Purulia, Saradapitha, Bhubaneswar and Cossipore centres. He served at Belur Math for a year till 1977 when he withdrew from active life owing to ill health. Since then he had been leading a retired life at the Math itself. The Swami was simple by nature.
24th August 1999: Swami Tattwajnananda ji (Jagadananda Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in September 1999
Swami Tattwajnananda ji (Jagadananda Maharaj), aged 77, passed away peacefully at Lucknow Math on 24th August 1999 at about 11.30 a.m. owing to sudden cardiac arrest. He had been suffering from various ailments for many years with frequent hospitalizations. In spite of his chronic ill health, he was always cheerful. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1947 at Belur Math and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1958. He served at Belur Math, Rangoon Sevashrama, Almora, Chandigarh and Lucknow centres. Austere and amiable, he was loved and respected by all who knew him.
25th August 1999: Swami Swabhavananda (Kanai / Saroj) : Announced to the Public in September 1999
Swami Swabhavananda (Kanai / Saroj) expired at Seva Pratishthan on 25th August 1999 at 6.00 a.m. He was 68. He had been suffering from metabolic encephalopathy and Parkinson’s Disease, and was admitted to the hospital three months ago. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Varanasi Home of Service in 1949 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1960. He was a sevak of Swami Atulananda ji Maharaj for two years and served at Kankhal Sevashrama for 24 years. He had been leading a retired life at Belur Math since 1994. The Swami could sing fairly well and was ever smiling despite his various ailments.
28th August 1999: Swami Dhyeyananda (Gopal) : Announced to the Public in September 1999
Swami Dhyeyananda (Gopal), aged 79, expired at Seva Pratishthan on 28th August 1999 at 3.00 a.m. owing to massive heart attack. He had been suffering from diabetes and hypertension and was admitted to the hospital on 11th June. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Baghbazar Math in 1949 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1960. Besides his joining centre, he served at Balaram Mandir, Lucknow Sevashrama, Rahara Boys' Home and Belur Math. He had been leading a retired life at the Math since 1988. Cheerful and affectionate, the Swami was an expert cook and used to supervise cooking for mass feeding during the festivals.
14th September 1999: Swami Dhrityananda ji (Shankar Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in October 1999
Swami Dhrityananda ji (Shankar Maharaj) passed away at Nagpur Math on 14th September 1999 at 7.10 p.m. owing to brain haemorrhage. He was 79. He had been suffering from diabetes and osteo-arthritis for the last few years. An initiated disciple of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1948 at Nagpur centre and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1957. The Swami served the poor people of Indora, a suburb of Nagpur, through our homoeopathy dispensary there for more than 35 years with exemplary zeal. He continued serving at Nagpur till 1994 when he retired owing to ill health. The Swami was loved and respected for his simple and unassuming nature.
17th September 1999: Swami Jnanatitananda (Ganapati) : Announced to the Public in October 1999
Swami Jnanatitananda (Ganapati), aged 49, passed away at Jaipur Ashrama in the early hours of 17th September 1999 in a tragic condition. He used to have moods of depression occasionally. Initiated by Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1973 at Raipur Ashrama and had sannyasa from his guru in 1982. Besides his joining centre he served at Rajkot and Jaipur Ashramas. Calm and quiet by nature, the Swami was liked for his pleasing manners.
24th December 1999: Swami Nagendrananda (Lalmohan / Lalu Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in January 2000
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Nagendrananda (Lalmohan/Lalu Maharaj) on 24th December 1999 at 9.45 p.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to septicaemia. He was 93. He had been suffering from lung disease and other old-age ailments, and was admitted to the hospital on 7th December. Initiated by Srimat Swami Vijnanananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Patna in 1940 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1948. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Math and Shyamala Tal, Kanpur and Narendrapur Ashramas. He had been leading a retired life at Arogya Bhavan (Belur Math) since 1983. The Swami was simple and affectionate by nature.
31st January 2000: Swami Yogamayananda (Narayan) : Announced to the Public in February 2000
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Yogamayananda (Narayan), aged 50, on 31st January 2000 at 6.20 a.m. at Seva Pratishthan owing to cancer of urinary bladder. He had been suffering from it for the last couple of years and had to be hospitalized for it several times. Initiated by Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Jayrambati in 1978 and had sannyasa from Swami Gambhirananda ji Maharaj in 1987. Besides his joining centre, he served at Belur Math for a short period. The Swami was simple and affable by nature.
22nd March 2000: Swami Vidyatmananda (John Yale) : Announced to the Public in April 2000
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Vidyatmananda (John Yale), aged 87, on 22nd March 2000 at 8.05 p.m. at Gretz (France) centre owing to cardiac arrest. Initiated by Swami Prabhavananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Hollywood (USA) centre in 1950 and had sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. He served at Gretz centre from 1966 till the end. His book The Yankee and the Swamis, published under his premonastic name, was widely read in the 1960s. His sense of dedication to the cause of Vedanta, scholarly bent of mind and sense of humour marked him out among those who joined the Vedanta Movement in America in the post-War period.
5th June 2000: Swami Satyaghanananda ji (Priyalal Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in July 2000
Swami Satyaghanananda ji (Priyalal Maharaj) passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 5th June 2000 at 8.40 p.m. He was 84. He had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, diabetes and other old-age ailments for the last couple of years and was last admitted to the hospital on 23rd January. Initiated by Srimat Swami Akhandananda ji Maharaj in 1936, he joined the Order at Calcutta Students’ Home in 1940 and had sannyasa from Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj in 1949. He became a Trustee of the Math and Member of the Governing Body of the Mission in 1983 and was appointed Treasurer of the Math & Mission in 1985. He served at Belur Math for about 14 years. He had been leading a retired life at the Math for the last three years. The Swami was kind-hearted and affectionate and was loved by all who came in contact with him. In him the Order has lost a much-loved and respected senior. His passing away was a great loss, especially to a large number of devotees to whom he had endeared himself by his affection, understanding and kindness.
15th June 2000: Swami Mahavratananda (Jivan) : Announced to the Public in July 2000
Swami Mahavratananda (Jivan), aged 50, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 15th June 2000 at 9.30 a.m. owing to sudden cerebral haemorrhage. Although he had been suffering from hypertension, diabetes and pneumonia for a few years, he was doing his work in the normal way and the untimely end was quite unexpected. An initiated disciple of Swami Bhuteshananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1976 at Narendrapur centre and had sannyasa from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj in 1985. Besides his joining centre he served at Gol Park, Ranchi Sanatorium, Quilandy, Saradapitha and Baranagore centres. He also did drought relief work in Bihar for a couple of months in 1993. The Swami was simple, affectionate and jovial by nature.
15th July 2000: Swami Ishananda ji (Parameswar Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in August 2000
Swami Ishananda ji (Parameswar Maharaj) passed away at Belur Math on 15th July 2000 at 5.30 p.m. He was 79. He had been suffering from hypertension, diabetes and severe dementia for about three years. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Karachi centre in 1944 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1952. Besides his joining centre he served at Vrindaban, Rangoon Sevashrama, Bombay, Kanpur, Rajkot, Ranchi Sanatorium, Singapore and Rajahmundry centres. He was the Head of Almora Ashrama for 5½ years. He had been leading a retired life for the last 11 years, first at Kishanpur, then at Ulsoor and finally at Belur Math. Affectionate, jovial and hard-working, the Swami was loved by all who came in contact with him.
28th July 2000: Swami Kalikatmananda (Harendra) : Announced to the Public in August 2000
Swami Kalikatmananda (Harendra), aged 69, passed away at Seva Pratishthan on 28th July 2000 at 8.15 a.m. owing to renal failure. An initiated disciple of Swami Vishuddhananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order in 1955 at Sylhet centre and had sannyasa from Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj in 1964. Besides his joining centre he served at Bagerhat, Jalpaiguri, Jayrambati, and Visakhapatnam centres. He served at Vidyamandira (Saradapitha) from 1979 till the end. He was also the Head of Dhaka and Dinajpur centres. Simple by nature and regular in habits, the Swami was known for doing his work methodically and meticulously.
12th August 2000: Swami Gaurananda (Prabhash Maharaj) : Announced to the Public in September 2000
Swami Gaurananda (Prabhash Maharaj) suffered a massive heart attack and passed away at Varanasi Home of Service on 12th August 2000 at about 1.00 a.m. He was 78. Initiated by Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama in 1945 and had sannyasa from Swami Shankarananda ji Maharaj in 1954. Besides his joining centre he served at Belur Math, Madras Math, Puri Math, and Baghbazar, Cossipore, Kamarpukur, Almora and Kankhal centres. He was the Head of Jamtara Math for 10 years. He was also a sevak of Swami Virajananda ji Maharaj, Swami Madhavananda ji Maharaj and Swami Atulananda ji Maharaj. He had been leading a retired life for the last 8 years, first at Varanasi Advaita Ashrama and then at Varanasi Home of Service. The Swami was kind-hearted and affectionate by nature, mixing freely with young and old alike.
26th August 2000: Swami Bhadrananda (James Worton) : Announced to the Public in September 2000
Swami Bhadrananda (James Worton), aged 83, died peacefully, owing to heart failure, at the Trabuco monastery of the Vedanta Society of Southern California, Hollywood, USA, on 26th August 2000 at 3 p.m. He had been ailing for nearly three years. He joined the Order at Trabuco in 1957, and was initiated by Swami Prabhavananda ji Maharaj. He took sannyasa in 1971 from Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj and, besides Trabuco, served at Hollywood Vedanta Society and its sub-centre at Santa Barbara. He served Swami Prabhavananda ji Maharaj for two years during the latter’s last illness. The Swami, though somewhat reserved on the surface, was cheerful and warm-hearted by nature. He faced his long illness with patient resignation, maintaining his good cheer to the end.
26th August 2000: Swami Purushatmananda (Bikas) : Announced to the Public in September 2000
Swami Purushatmananda (Bikas), aged 48, of our Delhi centre expired prematurely and unexpectedly at Sadar Hospital, Jalpaiguri, on 26th August 2000 at 7.05 p.m. owing to meningo-encephalitis. He had halted at Jalpaiguri for a couple of days on his way from Delhi to Cooch Behar where he was to go to see his ailing father. An initiated disciple of Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Belur Math in 1976 and had sannyasa from Swami Gambhirananda ji Maharaj in 1986. Besides Belur Math, he served at Bangalore, Kankurgachhi, Mangalore, Mayavati and its branch at Calcutta, and Delhi centres. He was also a sevak of Swami Nirvanananda ji Maharaj for 10 months. The Swami had a simple and affectionate nature. In him the Order has lost a young, energetic member.
2nd September 2000: Swami Archanananda (Mukundan) : Announced to the Public in October 2000
We are sorry to announce the untimely death of Swami Archanananda (Mukundan), aged 48, of our Thrissur centre at Palai Math on 2nd September 2000 at 11.45 p.m. owing to cardiac arrest. He had gone to Nattarampalli Math for a few days on leave and then went to Palai Ashrama. An initiated disciple of Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Thrissur Math in 1969 and had sannyasa from his Guru in 1980. He worked at Thrissur Ashrama in various capacities till his death which occurred most unexpectedly. In him the Order has lost a young, energetic and amiable member.
17th December 2000: Swami Kamaleswarananda (Vasudeva) : Announced to the Public in January 2001
We are sorry to announce the passing away of Swami Kamaleswarananda (Vasudeva) of our Mysore centre on 17th December 2000 at 11.50 a.m. at Ulsoor Ashrama where he had gone to stay for a few days. He was 63. He had been suffering from rectum cancer for the last seven years. Initiated by Swami Vireswarananda ji Maharaj, he joined the Order at Advaita Ashrama, Calcutta, in 1966 and had sannyasa from his guru in 1976. Besides his joining centre, he served at Shillong, Thiruvananthapuram, Chennai Math and Mysore centres. The Swami was known for his punctuality and meticulousness and, in spite of his poor health in later years, always insisted on rendering services in whatever little way he could.
Respected Maharaj,
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