The Kriya lineage: Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya, Yogananda and Guruji's own line

My name is Shailendra Sharma. Yes. And I am a disciple in the lineage of Kriya Yoga. My Guru's name was Satya Charan Lahiri. He was a disciple of Tinkori Lahiri, who was the son and disciple of Shyamacharan Lahiri, who was a disciple of Babaji Maharaj, whose name we do not know, so I am just representing them. I am the fifth representative of this lineage. I will tell you a few very basic, simple things. Any man or woman is searching for a true friend. Okay? But they fail because of one thing; the most important thing in their life, they never become friends with it. Your breath; you are breathing from the day you are born until the last day when you die. But we never ever try to make

our breath our friend. And this is the only thing we call the vibration of life; it is inside us. It is directly connecting us with the spirit inside. And I will say, if you make your breath your friend, You will begin to share this air With every living being on this planet, and there will be peace, friendship, love, and so many good things you can think of. So my message is: make your breath your friend, and you will be friendly to everything. Whoever is breathing will be your friend. This is the first time in history that 27 Rudraksha trees have been planted in this area because,

In 1936 Gandhi was initiated by Yogananda .

Q: But then why did he practice if he doesn’t need the practice?

Sh: May be he needed to practice because the body was new. Maybe for a certain purpose. Also another point comes to my mind: after Mahatma Gandhi began to practice Kriya yoga became very famous all over the world. In 1936 it was not so famous. And even Yogananda’s autobiography became the bestseller. May be it was the element which was needed in the flow of life. And may be by initiating Mahatma Gandhi Yogananda himself became world famous. His book is considered as one of the best 100 books of the century. And also it is very interesting to note that after 1936, after he received initiation, we see the rise of Mahatma Gandhi. And he was able to shake the British Empire.

Kriya yoga is an ancient practice of yoga the knowledge of which was lost in the Middle Ages and resumed in XIX century due to Babaji Maharaj . Lots of miracles, including that he defeated death, are connected with his name. Babaji appeared to Lahiri Mahasaya in the hills of Himalayas in 1861. He taught him the forgotten knowledge of kriya yoga and told to spread it all over the world. This meeting is described in the book of Paramahansa Yogananda Autobiography of a Yogi (1946).

Thus Babaji was the first guru in the lineage of kriya yoga. His disciple, Lahiri Mahasaya, passed the knowledge to his eldest son Tinkori Lahiri Mahasaya, who, in his turn, to his son Satyacharan Lahiri Mahasaya, and he – to Shailendra Sharma.

Babaji Maharaj

Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasaya

Tinkori Lahiri Mahasaya

Satyacharan Lahiri Mahasaya

Shailendra Sharma

Guruji. What is your Guru tradition? Please Tell us something about it? our guru tradition Shri Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasaya was a great yogi of Banaras in the 19th century. in 1861 He was a clerk in Army Engineering works. In 1861 he was transferred to Ranikhet. The British were preparing to build the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment there. So as an accountant clerk, he was posted there. There, The Immortal Guru Mahavatar Baba Ji Maharaj. Earlier we knew him only by the name of Babaji Maharaj. Then by Yogananda Paramahansa

"Mahavatar" was also added before his name. Since then he is called MahaAvatar Baba Ji. Mahavatar Babaji called Shri Shyamacharan Lahiri and reminded him of his previous birth. And The Great Mysterious Yog Practice which is famous all over the world today as Kriyayog. He initiated him in it. With this The practice of this mysterious yog was started among the householders Here I would like to say two things. regarding the giving of practice to the householders. Firstly, by doing this he opened a whole new path for women to practice yog.

So I am blessed that I am fifth in this great tradition. Shyamacharan Lahiri. His Mahasamadhi on 26 September 1895. He attained Mahasamadhi in the evening of Durga Ashtami. So today we remember him And we wish that his blessings always be upon disciples like us. Because whatever knowledge there is in the world, Baba Ji Maharaj has given it to the householders only through Shri Shyamacharan Lahiri therefore, the entire householder community will always be grateful to him and will remain indebted to him. After that Shri Shyamacharan Lahiri

After attaining Mahasamadhi, his elder son Shri Teen Kauri Lahiri Mahashay carried forward this tradition. He was also a great yogi. We have also heard the description of his death from the words of our Guruji. He left his body completely with the power of yoga. That time all the people present there they clearly saw that between his eyebrows it seemed as if something was inside. Something is going to come out at the time he left his body So, We are also very grateful to Shri Teen Kaudi Lahiri Mahasaya, the elder son of Shyama Charan Mahasaya. that he carried forward this tradition. After him his youngest sons

Shri Satya Charan Lahiri, my respected Gurudev from there, he carried forward this tradition. He spent his entire life in yog practice. And on October 1, 1982, he took pity on me and accepted me as his disciple. Accordingly, I will complete 41 years doing this practice Kriya Yoga on 1st October And I consider myself very fortunate that he showered kindness on me. After that, on April 28, 1984, he told me He gave me the right to initiate the good disciples and curious disciples into Kriya Yoga. in a way he had written the entire destiny of my life in front of me

and I am following it. The rules he told. I am fifth and Babaji Maharaj's blessings are on this tradition. Here I would like to say one more thing, this Kriya Yoga is practiced to attain only and only Samadhi and then attaining self realization And what we see is that in recent history This is the first time that some immortal yogi has come out of the forests from caves. And he provided such great yog knowledge to the society. We should always be grateful to him. My respected Gurudev, he made my senior Gurubhai, who passed away.

Is there a secret related to the incident when babaji maharaj made Lahiri mahasaya remember his past life ? This is a very good question. Till now this thing was a mystery in our Guru tradition. but i think today It is the day of him attaining Mahasamadhi , his Tirodhan day. So I feel this, today It would be appropriate to tell. Because what Guru Maharaj has told me It was a family thing. Lahiri Mahasaya's diaries are also published, So I don't think one should keep this hidden, regarding this topic At the time when Lahiri Mahasaya was called by Babaji Maharaj, in his cave From what we read, he showed him his seat and his old Kamandalu.

He reminded him that this is your old Kamandal. You used to meditate while sitting here. But as Guru Maharaj told me He saw Lahiri Mahasaya sitting in a samadhi state in the body of his previous birth. Babaji Showed and told that this is you, you are in samadhi here. So that you can do the work assigned to you smoothly. Because If an ordinary person does a great work then we all have such a nature that we start calling him the Avatara Purusha. Baba Ji Maharaj had this to say that We have to inspire that a very ordinary person Even the one who considers himself ordinary, if he resolves to do so, he can become the greatest of all.

and Can attain highest spiritual state. That's why you were put to Samadhi. You were born in a normal family. There you were born, and you got an ordinary job and you were a great yogi before and you will become one now too. This body of yours is... Also And he also told me that he took great care to take care of the body which was in Samadhi. He has to be looked after. So ashes were spread all over the cave. White. His body was sitting in Padmasana and the Guru himself was looking after him. Because this is such an important topic that you cannot leave it to anyone else, because

Any insect etc. can enter your body and do anything. Guru himself took care of him. When 'Lahiri Mahashay died on 26 September, He reportedly died here in 1895. There Baba Ji raised him from Samadhi. And until the effect of Samadhi was completely gone from his body, till then he remained there. And on Diwali of 1895, he left that cave forever. My respected Gurudev Shri Satya Charanlahiri told me this from his own mouth. When he told me, I was blessed after hearing it and today with the inspiration of Guru I am also telling you this. You also reflect, take inspiration and move forward.

Amazing Revelation!

"Guruji, did Lahiri Mahasaya mention anything about his previous life in his diaries?"

Guruji: "There's only one sentence about his previous life in his diaries, 'my wife was my sister in the previous birth, within her love yourself'. Except this there's nothing else! May be he decided not to reveal anything."

"What does 'within her love yourself' mean?

Guruji: "It may be a philosophical statement - if you love someone, basically you love yourself, because it's reflecting your love. Someone asked me, what is the pleasure in sex? I answered that the pleasure is in yourself. The partner only helps express the pleasure. You are realizing your own self.

"This statement could also mean that since he became a father because of her, he was born as his own son, so love his son as himself.

"He didn't mention anything else about his previous birth, or the materialization of a golden palace in the Himalayas! In fact, meeting Babaji physically is also nowhere mentioned in his diaries. The popular accounts are only from what he verbally told everyone. The only thing in the diaries is, 'Sushuma woke and Guru was seen. Babaji's face was seen in the kutashtha. This is yama and this is dharma'.

"I have read his diaries many times since guruji [Shri Satyacharan Lahiri Mahasaya] used to open them for us. Babaji is nowhere mentioned except in the above two instances. Neither is the golden palace mentioned anywhere. But his experiences were extraordinary! No saint had ever written about such experiences.

"[language] He wrote in Hindi, Bengali, and English, but always in a different script - for example Hindi text in Bengali script, or Bengali text in English script, etc. Never wrote Bengali in Bengali, for example.

"He wrote a lot about visions of Lord Krishna. Saw the same form of Babaji and Krishna. He had many visions of Radha-Krishna and Shiva-Parvati. It was a very mysterious program. Only three years of his experiences are recorded. There was a boom of experiences in the starting, there there were no hints of any experiences. But whatever was recorded is dynamite! And these are guidelines - whoever does kriya should have similar experiences. That is the beauty of this yoga practice.

"Lahiri Mahasaya also never discussed his own experience with his disciples, but kept giving them guidance and guidelines. And after his death, people started different cults based on these statements! He also never liked sanyasis (hermits)! He started the householder yogi's tradition."

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…SO BE THANKFUL FOR THAT…

Lahiri Mahasaya was householder; and Babaji allowed him to teach yoga to other householders, normal people. Before that – people, living in deep jungle, away from society, were practicing it. Very few people had access to it. Even now – not too much.

the form of Kriya yoga is for householders; but before – was it Kriya yoga or…?

Guruji: Kriya yoga is the name, given by Yogananda; it was Yoga before – and still it is Yoga. “Kriya” means “technic” – technical aspect of yoga.

and these are similar technics which Krishna told?

Guruji: yes- that’s why Gita is our main book. Gita is also a book on yoga.

how the technics for living in a jungle and a householder can be the same?

Guruji: most of the householders have been made to feel so low by monks, that they think that what they received cannot be so high thing – because they’re householders. Because you have been told by monks for 2000 years: you’re nothing, you’re nothing. You’re just there to serve us. First time your divinity has been restored – so be thankful for that. You’re receiving the best of the best thing – understand that.

they also have their Guru – that, who practice in jungle?

Guruji: it’s very rare thing to find them – they stay away. Who can find Babaji now? He’s there – we don’t know for how long. Thanks to his grace- he give it to Lahiri Mahasaya so we found the way. But even then I don’t think it will remain public. Yes, you know about it; but very few people are able to receive it. At least – we know about it.

SAMADHI; SELF-AWARENESS; REACTION; SUBTRACT OF KARMA; SACRIFICE

While talking about Samadhi good feeling comes.

why Lahiri Mahasaya had short hair?

Guruji: he must looking like a very ordinary person. If he will look stylish everybody consider him as an avatar, who come down to Earth; so he did especially like that.

It is very easy to discuss Samadhi – but it is extremely difficult to find a single person who may have experienced that.

Guruji: Maybe giving Kriya yoga is not the entertainment – it must be something serious. But still the exact motive is to be found – why he [Babaji] started it; I’m still thinking on it. Even though – I like to boast: he initiated Lahiri Mahasaya – so that Kriya yoga could reach Shailendra Sharma one day.

Will the Shailendra dynasty continue to practice?

Guruji: Hopefully (smiling); this is a new element – Shailendra dynasty. They have been practicing Kriya yoga as well. We’ve discussed that also: Uddhav is a Kriya yogi; he lives in this area – and he simply pulled me here.

Did he call you here?

Guruji: Maybe. He also looks like a youth of 16.

LAST DAYS OF GURUJI’S GURU

Is there any information about the last days of your teacher?

Guruji: Of course. He wanted to leave his body on the Guru Purnima in 1986 and with that purpose in mind he entered the Shiva temple, where the statues of Lahiri Mahasaya and his father were standing.

But denial came from the other side, from the previous Gurus of the Parampara; and he cried like a baby, who had been denied chocolate or a toy. Then he told us, 2-3 of his disciples, who were closer to him, that he was asked to live for 6 more months, and it actually happened.

After that incident he became very weak physically. It was the last week of January, when the Sun was in the northern hemisphere. There were some family obligations which he had to complete… which he did forget about during the Guru Purnima time.

So he did that, he closed all unfinished business and then he waited. He died exactly on his birth day and time. His death time, death date and his birth time, birth date were absolutely the same according to Hindu calendar. His son was away, so people brought some ice and his body was put on ice; but there was no rigor mortis after 1 or 2 days after his death. We have seen photographs – he was looking as if he was still alive, just lying there with closed eyes.

Was anybody with him during his actual departure?

Guruji: I think, there was one Bengali disciple, who used to take care of him. There was another disciple, who was just entering the house when the Guru was dying. Only these two people were there.

Is a yogi of such level supposed to be conscious during the time of death?

Guruji: He was conscious till the last moment, absolutely.

Do you think he performed Omkar Kriya?

Guruji: I’m sure about it. I think he was capable of many things.

Somebody asked you would your Guru take another body – and you said “no”?

Guruji: There is no need. For us, in our Parampara, Babaji decides such things. It is not affected by karma or by anything else. Guru decides.

Was he cremated?

Guruji: Yes. In Manikarnika ghat – it is supposed to bring liberation. Simply by being cremated there. When the bones were picked – there were very small amounts left. It is another sign that most of the karma is no longer there. Otherwise I’ve seen big canisters, full of bones, of many pieces – that means that karmic duties will continue. Fantastic people, fantastic stories!

Yogananda was not cremated, was he buried?

Guruji: Because he was a sannyasi, and sannyasis are supposed to have already gone through the fire of cremation, burnt in the flames of wisdom when they embraced the initiation. All the sannyasis are buried.

At the same time, some yogis who achieved the highest level in sadhana – are they also not cremated?

Guruji: Only those, who are actually yogis. The householders will be cremated – like Lahiri Mahasaya was.

ON YOGA TRENDS AND THE FUTURE

Nath yogis were original yogis; whatever yoga people are trying to put — the roots go back to Nath yogis. They are the founders of it: it’s a direct lineage from Shiva Himself. And Matsyendranath was the first human disciple of Shiva. It’s a very strong organization and they don’t give it to worldly people, very strict rules are there.

Are they still exist?

Guruji: Yes, one of the Nath yogis is the chief minister of UP. They usually don’t move around in society. Sometimes fear comes into my heart: maybe Babaji is pulling back this Kriya yoga art from the society. I’ve been discussing it for quite some time and the feeling is growing. The real art has already disappeared from society: they are now commercial points mostly. He has already withdrawn most of it. I may be the last of my time — and already reached smashan: so we don’t know to which side now the lineage will go.

Do You know Swami Rama?

Guruji: I know Swami Rama, yes.

Is it a strong tradition?

Guruji: Swami Rama became a sannyasi; and then he left sannyasa and married a good lady and produced a daughter. And he created a very big medical institute — so we appreciate what he did for the general public. Maybe that was the final renunciation: that he renounced the renunciation itself. But generally in sannyasa tradition it is not accepted. Once you are committed — you are committed forever.

You remember some old American western movies? That’s a typical hero: he appears out of nowhere, shoots some bad people, stays in the town for some time; when every available girl is pregnant — then suddenly he remembers his mission and rides out to the sunset. It’s a typical cowboy film.

Main point: just be honest with yourself.

Human nature: we like to categorize everything — east, west… now please tell me, where the east begins or from where the west ends? But it’s from our point of view the east is east and the west is west — there is nothing.

TEST FOR THE SEEKERS

is it true that Lahiri Mahasaya took the 5 rupees for initiation and 10 rupees from widows?

Guruji: no idea. I was told nothing so I’m teaching for free. I also don’t believe that siddha like Babaji, who can create the palace made of gold in a single moment – he won’t go for 5 rupees.

so it’s misinformation

Guruji: no, it may be true: it may be just a test for the seeker. Maybe because of that.

FEW GURUJI STORIES

is it true that Lahiri Mahasaya worked as a tutor?

Guruji: yes, he was the tutor of the prince of Benares. Sanskrit teacher.

it was before he achieved Samadhi?

Guruji: he was already go through that. It is on record that maharaj of Kashmir, maharaj of Nepal and maharaj of Benares – they came to him and became his disciples. All this things you can find in Purana Purush. I’m the only one, remain unemployed. I think if you remain unemployed, without work, making money or any effort to make money – your thinking and your attitude develops in a very different way.

Gupyanath Sanyal had been initiated to Nath tradition?

Guruji: no, it’s traditional way of the name – in Bengal they do it more.

TO LEARN THE LANGUAGE OF THE CREATOR.

…he practiced something, yes.

he achieved samadhi?

Guruji: this I don’t know – maybe. Banamali Lahiri was my real friend, I was visiting him when I visit the original house of Lahiri Mahasaya. Then the man in his early 40ies came – very good looking and very shapely physically but very serious. When he was leaving he told me: that was Yogananda in his next life; now he is living alone and just practicing, not talking with people. Sometimes he visits Lahiri Mahasaya. I’ve seen him 2 times but have not talk with him.

what is the purpose for him to take another birth?

Guruji: how can I tell you the purpose? Babaji decides.

You think he did his mission well – previous mission?

Guruji: he made Kriya yoga, Babaji, all the lineage of the Gurus very famous, the world over. Most of the people are getting recognized because the work of him. either somebody starts their “ supermission” by criticizing yoga or by praising yoga: you cannot ignore his work. Even my search was started in 1979 by reading “Autobiography of the yogi” – I think it’s fantastic book. Yogananda was the greatest yogi – maybe one and only – who ever visiting west. No comparison with him.

You think it’s Babaji’s grace?

Guruji: without his blessing I don’t think a person can become legend or world famous. Because human beings are human beings – instead of getting inspire by his spiritual richness people are inspired by his material success, which he attained.

it’s like the side effect – or he wanted this, what do You think?

Guruji: it’s just a side effect. When you’re genuinely a yogi – you will be recognized by people and you cannot remain poor until unless you choose to remain poor – yoga is the magical thing. You will become known .

but all the great yogis were remain poor?

Guruji: they choose it – because it’s a part of a discipline.

to maintain the ego?

Guruji: maybe they will remain in tact with grassroots level people. They always stay in touch with grassroots level people.

STORIES ABOUT GREAT YOGINS

I don’t know whether it’s authentic story – but it’s amazing story; he borrowed Yukteshwar’s Giri ashram from some americans. He purchase this washington’s mountain property – he also saw the photos of some hotels or other buildings there. and he was unable to pay back; it happened in such a way that after 2 or 3 hours the time will be over and property will be confiscated by the loan sharks with the help of the police.

So James j.Linn – he was a sort of millionaire, gas magnate or something; Yogananda has done some great help to him in some way. He was visiting Yogananda – and when he came that loan shark was sitting here with some policeman, waiting for last 2 hours to take the property back. Yogananda was very relaxed, in a very happy mood and he was singing. James Linn was very surprised: how he’s singing, he lost his mind or what? He said – police is waiting to take this property; Yogananda answered – yes, I know that. – and still you are happy and singing? Yoganand said: if god wants me to be kicked out of here – it’s god’s will, so what I can do? Let’s enjoy it! - how you will find money? – absolutely no idea – god will arrange it; maybe you will arrange it? He went out, wrote the check of the account, give it to the loan shark and it was the end of the story. And he was so impressed that he became a monk and a second president of that society.

Lahiri Mahasaya often went barefoot; one day he came into his room - and the family members saw some blood and ask him, what happened? - what happened? - that blood, what is it? – oh, I’ve cut my feet and put a med band on it. Then they saw that he banded one foot and the cut was on the other foot. That is very cute – and also tells us he was a spiritual giant.

you cannot avoid such karma?

Guruji: you have to live 120 years. He was only 64 or 65 then.

if you somehow avoid such accident?

Guruji: it will come: if you take a loan – you have to pay it back; no matter how long you’ll avoid pay back – they will find you.

and it will increase more?

Guruji: compound effect – so better to face it . What experiences Lahiri Mahasaya had and recorded in his diaries – matchless. No one has such experiences. This is specialty of Kriya yoga: you must read and compare. Nowhere such deep spiritual experiences have been recorded. It was my great fortune that my Guru allowed me to browse through his personal diaries. That was the very great honor for me. When you open those pages, see his handwriting… you feel nostalgy: he wrote those pages so long time before and you’re reading it now. That makes Lahiri Mahasaya extraordinary, the first disciple of Babaji, who was sent to society. Very simple man – and extraordinary discipline.

BABA JI AND PARAMPARA

It’s been almost 150 years when Babaji initiated Lahiri Mahasaya and introduced this most mysterious yoga to the world. And what we see – the descent of the yogic descendant. Maybe most of the spirits, which were waiting to take birth – already have taken birth. Babaji is immortal: so whenever he will feel like introducing that thing – he may introduce it again anytime.

Why do You think it’s descending?

Guruji: W hatever is given to society – usually goes down. Very few people are able to maintain the highest standard. And I think – this Kriya yoga was never meant for masses: it was always for a selected few people. And it will remain so. It is not our worry – whether the lineage or the tradition will continue, or what will happen, who will carry on…He is immortal.

But what about Nath yogis tradition – their panths?

Guruji: Actually it was Guru and disciple discipline only. There was no organization, nothing – just the discipline of Guru and disciple.

Because now what I see – only a few people are practicing, others are just sweeping the floor?

Guruji: Now most of them are like that – they are managing the ancient places of the great yogis, that’s it. Even that is important. So we can relax, no problem: whenever Babaji will feel like introducing it – he may do it in a few centuries or after the thousand of years.

Till then we can continue to chant the glorious name of the Lord. It's the best way to pass time. But I think our mahamantra is also great: Hare Prana Hare Prana Prana Prana Hare Hare Hare Apana Hare Apana Apana Apana Hare Hare! That is the real mahamantra.

TO SET THE PARAMETER

Kriya yoga is a very hard core thing, it is the purest form of yoga. It was actually Yogananda, who gave this system of yoga the name “Kriya yoga”, because he was teaching in the west. “Kriya” means technic, “technical yoga”. Lahiri Mahasaya used to say : Yoga ki kriya; but Yoganada gave the name “Kriya yoga”. Have you read any of my books?

No, I saw some videos from Youtube.

Guruji: You should read some; I’ve commented on Hatha Yoga Pradipika – that is the manual of Kriya yoga. I have 9 books on Amazon – so you can read them. I don’t think they are different – but people tell me there are a lot of differences.

Banamali Lahiri was a very good friend of mine, now he is no more. I knew him, he was a very good friend. It was a big difference in us by age – but we can very friendly discuss for hours in Lahiri Mahasaya’s original room, where he used to sit and people were – it is a historical room. His wife has made us chai and brought some rasgullas – those were great times. Very legendary man. In fact, he was the one who suggested that I go in for an MRI of khechari mudra; I did not know about this thing – but he said: you have to set the parameter . Then we did it – I think it’s on the internet also.

WE ONLY LIVE TWICE

but You remember that case with Lahiri Mahasya and the golden palace?

Guruji: there is another catch to it: suppose you remove this story from Lahiri Mahasaya’s initiation: the impact will be less. And it was maybe needed to impress Lahiri Mahasya that such things are possible and even happening today. It’s a big plan. And we discovered Yogananda’s mission: we never thought about it before -but it is working. He was the first yogi to go – and he was discussing Nirvikalpa samadhi and Savikalpa samadhi - maybe people will begin to discuss about them as well. It is just like Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra: they start by discussing samadhi – then the process is given. He started by discussing samadhi - then so many postures and all these things started and the people’s consciousness – I’m sure, it’s developing. Body language directly affects your brain. World is changing.

* * * * * *

Guruji: "We were looking at Kriya websites, found one about Yogananda which also had a few video clippings of him, with Ramana Maharshi, Yukteshwar Giri, etc, one going into super-conscious state. They were all good; felt good after seeing them."

"Guruji, earlier you had said that Paramhansa Yogananda commercialized Kriya yoga which was not the right thing to do."

Guruji: "That he did. That is one aspect of his personality, this is another. How can we understand in totality by looking at only one thing? One aspect of his commercialization is that he's the only one who has been able to get his gurus worshiped alongside Jesus Christ. No one before him could do that. We should think from all angles. We also shouldn't forget that his book (Autobiography of a Yogi) inspired so many people, including myself! How can one deny that? Even today it feels good to read that book.

"The videos are good, especially what he said in the one about super-consciousness, that yoga is not magic, it is a art of high living."

* * * * * *

BABAJI TEAM

You remember the episode when the mother of LahiriMahasaya was at the temple and sadhu came and said that he will take care of him?

Guruji: I think because he had a special birth guided by Babaji – maybe one member of Babaji’s group was appointed to take care of the child.

it could be Babaji himself?

Guruji: no. this sadhu was not mentioned again – but he don’thave to be seen taking care.

do You know how many members are in Babaji’s group?

Guruji: maybe every thousand years he takes a new member. Because whoever will become the part of that group will become immortal. Maybe once in a thousand years or 500 years one is selected.

how the information of his team became known?

Guruji: Lahiri Mahasaya talked about it - because there were several other yogis also.

after him someone mentioned about this group?

Guruji: then only yogi Ramaya and Nilakanth and Marshal Govindan; otherwise – no one. When they were lefting camp – the saying was on northern Hindi: here everybody knows what does it mean.

You remember the picture done by Lahiri Mahasasya – the person with the big round around him; he said it is AtmaSurya?

Guruji: it is the thing inside kutastha. That is the main thing – but we keep looking at the light.

he said that it is Atma Surya and Chandananda – and today the very long period is over and finally his aim on Earth became clear?

Guruji: it simply mean that what mission Babaji gave him finally came to know; otherwise it remain at the back of his mind, in subconsciousness. He will not act differently, he will appear absolutely normal – because he was to propagate this thing in absolute normal people. In India, if you are extraordinary - you will be held as an avatar or extraordinary person and everybody will begin to expect miracle at the drop of any cult; so to remain normal maybe was very important. I think it is important. And he died soon after – not much time after that.

Usually you realised your mission after you fulfilled it. Then nothing left to do – so he go back to his immortal body and said good-bye to that body.

that body was sitting in the cave?

Guruji: yes, Babaji was taking care of it.

that person, who wrote this book…

Guruji: that is obvious.

one person should be cured, and Yogiraj said: come and buy the bottle of rose water, then…(This is about tthe book Puran Purusha, the biography of Lahiri Mahasaya)

Guruji: (laughing) – yes, I remember, he cured cholera with that. It actually happened, yes. It is nowhere mention in ayurveda. I think, when you’re a siddha – whatever you will say, will go.

I think he just did it for fun – or to test the devotion?

Guruji: maybe if you go from today’s scientific point of view – that was the surest way to create antibodies in his intestines. Think on that!

what do You think about the herbs which are strengthen the immune system?

Guruji: very good. You should try them from time to time.

(This is about tthe book Puran Purusha, the biography of Lahiri Mahasaya)

sushumna awakened by the grace or by the affect of the Guru- and in that moment he felt shining power; and he saw sushumna by his all nights – in a dreams or in a deep sleep – he always talked with Gurudev in that state?

Guruji: this the saying that – Guru ki kripa se sushumna jagrathogi; by the grace of the Guru sushumna opens; -it’s the way of saying in India. Nobody will ever say that by my own effort my sushumna awaken -no. always by Guru’s grace this happen.

but he said that he talked with Gurudev in this state?

Guruji: he said: Babaji ka jap sushumna jaega, Babaji ka darshan – whenever sushumna was awaken, he was able to see Babaji and talk with him. Why do you think in my MRI Babaji’s face appeared? If here he can appear – it was appearing there as well. I’ve given good parameters.

You didn’t talk about it with Babaji?

Guruji: I’m nervous, I have nothing to ask: if he’s saying something – I listen. I’ve never ask him any question. I think it is best this way. We must never forget the incident which Yogananda described – in Purana Purush also; in Danapur he invoked Babaji because his friend was curious and Babaji scolded him. Such powers you should not disturb.

and after that he couldn’t invoke, because Babaji prohibit?

Guruji: yes, and he saw him again in Kumbha Mela. And when is son Tinkori Lahiri invoked Babaji and Babaji appeared; Lahiri Mahasaya came running and forbid him – never to do it again. He was aware of status of Babaji and his power. We must never irritate these big powers out of curiosity.

he was asking for something?

Guruji: yes, mentally – please, give me darshan.

so You think who is in paramapara if he is

praying to this power – the power hears, at least?

Guruji: they hear. But to fulfil or not – it’s their decision. And it is best this way. Even you don’t have to invoke them; if you’re a good yogi – then.

(This is about tthe book Puran Purusha, the biography of Lahiri Mahasaya)

in 13th august of 1873 he wrote in his diaries: today I found Mahapurush; what is it? What stage of practice it could be?

Guruji: means he realized Ishwar in his heart and whatever the result of yoga he achieved.

it is the result of Hridaya granthi? Or Rudra granrhi?

Guruji: these are subdivisions of Kriya yoga – so let’s say this is the result of Kriya yoga. That he became accomplished one. Great one: Mahapurush – great.

Many scientists and doctors are monitoring Arnold Schwarzenegger’s routine, his diet and everything, they were testing on him – but nobody started to look like him. We need to keep that in our mind.

maybe again it’s mistranslation; but he wrote that in the night I’m not coming to the dream because I overcome this habit?

Guruji: rat ko nidh nahayes: he is saying – I must overcome sleep so I will practice more in the night. The translation is absolutely different.

what if in the practice someone starts to fall asleep?

Guruji: it happens. If some extra experience is coming – body will feel different.

with the practice we must overcome this state?

Guruji: but if you’re working hard – some sleep will definitely come. We are not supermen. Some sleep is important. But he was retired and he was preparing for the final exit – so he overcame sleep. It is said that he was available for almost day and night – no sleep. Sleeplessness, breathlessness, pulselessness – these symptoms were coming habitually in his physical body.

so great things You’re telling; but why he did nothing with his physical body?

Guruji: why? It was just a short-termed mission, which he did successfully. No need.

I remember he said that he will come back?

Guruji: he is saying: I will awaken again. You can take it any way.

does Shri Krishna had disciples in Kriya yoga?

Guruji: he is one of the Gurus, the revivor of Kriya yoga in Mahabharata time – that’s why Gita his name book. I think too much confusion has been spread by vaishnavs and by ISCON people. Shaivism is this, vaishnavism is this; - for a normal hindu everything is ok. They are all our gods. We have no problem to celebrate Krishna’s birthday, I’m living in the place of Krishna, worshipping Shiva – it’s all same to me.

does it mean that disciple practicing Kriya yoga doesn’t feel influence of his own karma?

Guruji: in the beginning he will feel. Only after reaching Samadhi it will disappear.

YOGANANDA TEACHINGS

Yogananda’s teachings were so esoteric and deep; and he was representing Babaji and Kriya yoga lineage – which in my opinion is still the most mysterious thing. And he started to talk about god realization, self-realization, nirvikalp samadhi, savikalp samadhi; he was talking about so many fantastic fairy-tales like incidents; he never taught yoga postures.

then how that stereotype that yoga is asanas developed?

Guruji: after that some other yoga instructors went from India to make some money and then they commercialize it. It is a big business in America: maybe 50 million dollars annually – maybe more. But it’s not a bad thing: because commercial touch is there, so now people are taking real interest in that. And even if you are doing yoga postures, it will create a certain body language, which will directly affect your consciousness and your mind. Everybody has to start from somewhere.

That’s good point: read Yoga Darshan: they start by discussing samadhi – then they go into different chapter in the process. Yogananda was the first chapter of Yoga Darshan: he started by discussing samadhi; then the people followedand the practice started – from yoga postures. It looks like it now! And I will say: even yoga postures are not so easy to do – especially nauli.

have You asked Your Guru about it?

Guruji: no, he was in a very different mood; and he was not so talkative as me – that was the main point.

now so many people are claiming they received the teachings from Babaji directly ?

Guruji: they should give thanks to Yogananda Ji because he made this world-famous and now people are realizing the commercial value of it.

VISIT OF SHIBENDU LAHIRI;

Q : how he’s (Shibendu Lahiri) guiding his students?

Guruji : by confusing them into philosophy of j. Krishnamurti. I’m hearing the same lecture – it’s his 5 th visit, so fifth time. For 20 years same.

Q : how people can listen the same all the time?

Guruji : that’s why he’s always looking for new disciples. Old one disappear.

Q : what do you think – how Lahiri Mahasaya is reacting seeing all these?

Guruji : I think he’s beyond reacting – he doesn’t care.

You see: any art will not last more than three generations in family – no family can claim copyright on anything. It will always remain Guru to disciple.

I think Lahiri Mahasaya is very happy that it comes to the disciple.

Q : when You become Guru – how he reacted

Guruji : very jealous all the time. Till last visit he was always confronting me. This visit was really extraordinary. He was holding my hand – what never happened before, I’ve never saw such behavior in him. Jealousy was there from the beginning.

But I will say – if you can’t make even one person jealous of you – you have achieve nothing in your life. Think like that!

He is my Guru’s son. I’m respecting him – he’s 18 years older me also. As a tradition goes in India – I should offer him money. But because he knows – I have success and I’m a Guru – he gives me money. No matter what he say – but he gives me money. 34 years of confrontation can not end like this.

Q : he is living in Benares?

Guruji : he’s visiting India now – most of the time he is living in Paris or moving around.

What happen: my Guru gave me a small notebook, where was some elementary introduction to Kriyas. He gave it to me and say to give it to Shibendu after 2 years of his death. Maybe after it he will start practicing. And he told him many times in front of me that when you will start practice – go to Shailendra, he will guide you. I gave him that notebook – and suddenly he was all over the world.

You saw his disciples, - you can sincerely judge on their condition. He stops them from reading yoga books also. That’s why he’s roaming about for new disciples. This time so many photos of his visit were taken – and it is good.

BLESSED ARE MEEK FOR THEY SHALL INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF EARTH

Because we have no parallel with our ghost program – we just see the developing. Lahiri Mahasaya written that he saw Shiva and Parvati, Bhairav also.

bhairav of Benares?

Guruji: yes. After him – no one.

Guruji: no, that’s why he aged.

but he has gone through 4000 samadhis?

Guruji: whatever – he was a householder. His work was different.

He came and did his work very successfully introduced yoga – he broke the ice; living the very ordinary way of life and even looking very ordinary – it inspires ordinary people. If such ordinary person can be such great spiritually – why not we? I think that objective was different then. But here we are discussing pure yoga, which we should. If we are practicing yoga - there is always a possibility that we may also achieve it, experience it. Think big, always!

Never ever compromise your ambitions according to a situation. Let your situation develop to the level of your ambition. Never bring it down!

We can observe that nowadays yoga became popular. There are so many different styles, technics… Could you please tell us what is the essence of Kriya Yoga?

A: Babaji gave Kriya Yoga to a very humble person who was just a clerk in the army in the Engineering department at the time of Monarchy. He could easily call a King or a Prince and initiate him into Kriya. But he called a very humble, a very ordinary person. So, I think it was the beginning of Democracy in the World. In Democracy our individual rights are respected; our individuality is respected. Everyone is equal. Yogis for 1000 of years keep telling us that everybody is equal. Everybody can have the same opportunity if they are actually seeking something and if it is inside them enough enterprise, they can achieve everything. So this is absolutely natural outcome of Democratic time that yoga has become so popular. I think as democracy will become more refined, yoga will become popular very much. And many many good and deep seekers will come out of it. So I have very high hopes.

COMING BACK TO HOME OF THE GURU

You said once that it’s extremely hard to achieve the realization in one life time – but it’s more possible to achieve in 6 lives time?

Guruji: if you’re in the final – it will take 3 years, 6 years, 12 years, 24 years, 48 years – something like that. It can be done in one life time – in the final one.

we can also suppose or imagine that Babaji has a plan that some of your disciples will start to practice with Lahiri Mahasaya?

Guruji: I think so. Nowadays the level of questions and understanding is very different. When persons are coming for the first time – their questions are different; somehow the communication with the old people were different.

can we suppose that many of your disciples will achieve…?

Guruji: as Babaji told me in 1995 – many of my disciples will achieve. That makes me happy Guru. What is the reason to be a Guru if your disciples are not successful?

and sometimes You have the feeling that Babaji will take Kriya back from society?

Guruji: I’m also observing, that the real essence of yoga – nowadays it’s so many Kriya yoga organizations – the real knowledge will be withdraw. This feeling come and go from time to time. If Babaji initiated Lahiri Mahasaya – so Kriya yoga reached Shailendra Sharma.

how it will continue with the disciples and teachings?

Guruji: I think Kriya yoga will be withdraw from the society. Now it become the very great commercial project. People were so inspired by success of Yogananda – so they do it but with very less spiritual flavor. Another point: now Kriya reached the cremation area – this is the end of the road for most of the people. We don’t know in which direction it will go further. You’re learning on the cremation area, which is supposed to be the home of Shiva also. We’re finally coming back to home of the first Guru of Yoga.

GURUJI ABOUT DISCIPLES

what was Your personal experience with déjà vu feeling?

Guruji: when I ‘ve visited Lahiri Mahasaya’s house. When I stood there in front; the day I was declared a Guru – I went to Lahiri Mahasaya’s house with another brother-disciple. And when I stood there at the gate – I knew exactly what is inside. And it turned out to be exactly that. That was a very strange feeling there.

Guruji, can You recognize some of Your disciples who were Lahiri Mahasaya’s disciples?

Guruji: some of them,yes.

and Paramahamsa Yogananda was also familiar to You?

Guruji: yes, I saw him – Banamali Lahiri introduced me to him, yes. But he was not that familiar; Lahiri Mahasaya’sphoto in the book was more familiar. And the lane I recognised: I may visited him. Because I know for sure: I was not Lahiri Mahasaya.

so some of disciples of Lahiri Mahasaya became Your disciples in that life?

Guruji: yes, 4 or 5. Only one man is still alive – three are gone.

when they became Your disciples – they achieved a little bit higher level this lifetime?

Guruji: a little bit, yes.

Guruji, what if I feel that this lifetime is not a first lifetime being with You?

Guruji: you’re right, it’s not a first life.

Guruji, what level You were practicing when You achieved samadhi the first time?

Guruji: I was doing the highest level what my Guru told me. We shall overcome some day. Deep in my heart I do believe – we shall overcome some day( smiling)

Guruji, You have some disciples from other lineages? Who was in Nath lineage?

Guruji: not yet.

maybe some bhaktas?

Guruji: no, they have not enough understanding for yoga. Their attitude is not to that level.

and maybe some ex-abhichara masters?

Guruji: not yet( smiling)

if we take time frames – it couldn’t be one lifetime to be the disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya and then to be Your disciple?

Guruji: no, maybe one or two lives in between. But one man directly took birth and became my disciple. He is still alive.

when new people come to You – You can see whether they were practicing?

Guruji: yes, very easily.

why other disciples of Lahiri Mahasaya didn’t come?

Guruji: they are there – in the plantation. In astral form.

that special man: he has some special purpose to attain the body again?

Guruji: only, yes. He committed some grave things which Lahiri Mahasaya did not like; so he took another birth.

what do You think about the book about Lahiri Mahasaya? I think it’s too much useless comments of his disciple…

Guruji: yes, I can agree with that. He is no more now. 150 years after you’re trying to decipher his spiritual experiences. But I will say – such spiritual experiences, which is recorded, is incomparable. It is more or less like light for any Kriya yogi.

You have many disciples who started to practice yoga only in this incarnation?

Guruji: many who are first-timers – but they have done yoga in their previous lives.

like yoga postures?

Guruji: not only yoga postures – some deeper practices. Otherwise they will never become interested, they will never progress in Kriya Yoga.

they were in other lineages – or how it can happen?

Guruji: I think Babaji has sent few selected people. For Indian people it is impossible to imagine that I’ve been asked so deeper questions by you and others. It cannot be without any reason.

now in that present moment only You’re in samadhi?

Guruji: there has to be more.

Guruji: I’ve never had any theories – only Kriya yoga. And he allowed me to read Lahiri Mahasaya’s personal diary – that was a big permit. You can read the memories of saints or holy men; but what experiences Lahiri Mahasaya had written – they are matchless. Nobody has even thought about it. That gives bigger hope to Kriya yogis: they are like guidelines to us.

In the printed version are they cut?

Guruji: What is published – concerning everything about yogic experiences, most of them are there. Few things about private life – they are not there.

What about kaya kalpa, which he was taught?

Guruji: Maybe taught or maybe just given some information: he never tried it.

If someone is really immortal – he just has this kaya kalpa like an educational program?

Guruji: The kaya kalpa, if you’re doing it successfully, makes you live longer. That particular type of kaya kalpa should be done for 100 years: this is a big catch here.

Before you attain the vajra body?

Guruji: No, any body – so in the same body you can attain everything which is there to be attained.

Do you think it’s impossible to attain vajra kaya before 100 years?

Guruji : No, that’s a very different type of achievement.

So even vajra body will need this kaya kalpa?

Guruji: No.

…many times we were going the same route Lahiri Mahasaya was doing – it’s a good feeling!

YOGANANDA’S MISSION

but Yogananda achieved with Shaktipat?

Guruji: it’s a controversial point, we don’t know exactly. He was surrounded by direct disciples of Lahiri Mahasaya, including his parents and tutor – so he must be practicing the original thing, there is no doubt about it.

have You seen his chart?

Guruji: I have seen his chart, Vivekananda’s chart, Yukteshwar Giri’s chart and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s chart. And I will say, that they received grace from their Gurus: Gurus charts are extraordinary. Yukteshwar Giri’s chart is very extraordinary and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s chart is also very extraordinary. Yogananda’s and Vivekananda’s charts are not on that level.

if Yogananda was able to create such an empire – his 11th must be very strong?

Guruji: it was strong and I think 10th was also very strong. It was many years back when we discussed their charts.

Yogananda wasn’t growing old?

Guruji: no, he was growing old.

but his body remained unperishable after his depart for the long time?

Guruji: yes, for 21 days: that means he was a good yogi.

B.Lahiri showed me another incarnation of Yogananda, and I have more faith in B.Lahiri’s words. He was very good looking person, very serious, practicing in Benares

but maybe even creating the empire was his mission?

Guruji: he used the empire – whatever he did there; he struggled a lot. For 15 years his father was sending him money every month – so he was able to make out there. Then slowly – slowly success came his way and he became famous. His main mission was to introduce Guru Paarampara and the Kriya yoga to the entire world – which he did very successfully. creating the empire – this is american thing: so he had to do it to be successful there. The very fact: his body remained without any corruption after 21 days still after his death: that proves he was a very good yogi himself, successful yogi.

I’ve read somewhere – there were different promises in Kriya, given by disciple to Guru?

Guruji: who was writing that – Satyashwarananda from Santyago? I’ve read that book: he was writing that disciple promises - I will give everything to my Guru including my wife. We were told to respect a woman married to another man as a mother. I have no explanation of this statement. I have read Lahiri Mahasaya’s diaries personally – no such promises there.

he is also saying – I promise not to drink and not to smoke?

Guruji: this is for americans. He was settled in Santyago, USA. And he was saying that Jesus Christ came to him and invite him to see Babaji. Babaji was sitting on a stone; then he asked so many questions to Babaji – and Babaji was too happy to answer his questions. One of the question was – can the pregnant woman practice Kriya? I’m the very simple man and I fail to understand: when you’re facing the immortal being – will you ask him such a stupid question? He’s not a yoga instructor. There is a photo in book: he is standing in g-string holding the pot in his hand like this( hand is holding the upper part from above)? When a person is holding a pot like this – he is going to jungle to answer the call of the nature. Somehow he read some portion of Lahiri Mahasaya’s diaries and quoting them there. He became very rich.

My monkey is taking water only from me – this is my duty to give it to her. And breakfast – there must be 1 tamarind and 4 almonds and something more. When she is drinking water she’s holding my hand – only then she will drink.

62 YEARS OF KHECHARI

I did khechari and when my Guru told me to teach me more – 1984 april I went there. After he taught me i was declared as successor and all this things happen; foolishly I asked: when you achieve khechari? He thought for a moment and said: maybe 62 years or 60 years before. Then silence begin. You cannot even begin understand the depth of a person who was having khechari for the last 62-63 years. I think it was the last question I’ve asked him – how he did that.

you said that even Mahatma Gandi start to be most popular, when he start to practice Kriya Yoga?

Guruji: he was already very popular, but when Yogananda gave him initiation in Kriya Yoga, which Mahatma Gandi himself requested, when Yogananda was visiting his ashram – this incident was given in “Autobiography of the Yogi” – after that his rise is phenomenon. Till then he was doing so many things, but after this – extraordinary rise.

I am Shailendra Sharma, son of Shri Himmatbahadur Sharma

and Shrimati Gyani Devi. I am a Yogi and I belong to the lineage of the

great Yogi guru - Babaji Maharaj (who gave the world the message of Yoga

expounded in Shrimad Bhagvad Gita after a long time), his disciple Shree

Shyamacharan Lahiri Mahasay, his son and disciple Shree Teenkaudi Lahiri

Mahasay; his son and disciple - my guru Shree Satyacharan Lahiri Mahasay.

Shri Babaji Maharaj

Shri Shyamacharan Lahiri

Shri Teenkori Lahiri

Shri Satyacharan Lahiri

Shri Shailendra

I visited Lahiri Mahasaya’s room many times. His great grandson was my friend Bhee Lahiri. He is no more now – he died at the age of more than 90. The vibration in this room was very peaceful. I think he was like that. Very powerful.

We would just sit there for hours. Sometimes we would be having tea, discussing something, or we were sitting in silence.

It is a very small room, with low ceiling. A narrow long room. One feels highly nostalgic sitting in that room. A small wooden dice is there on which Lahiri Mahasaya used to sit, one of his Dhotis, his shoes, the watch which he brought is hanging there, his copy of Geeta, copy of Chandi is also there.

It was a very great feeling.

Now it is locked, nobody lives there. Bhee must have been keeping, but his son is working somewhere.

Among the famous traditions, the tradition of Shri Yukteshwar Giri, disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya, became world

famous through his able disciple Paramhans Yogananda. Paramhans Yogananda graced the Father of Indian

Nation - Mahatma Gandhi with Kriya yoga diksha, who initiated the entire human race onto the path of non-violence

in the blood-soaked century.

Tradition (Guru lineage) of Shri Bhupendranath Sanyal, disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya did astounding work in India,

which was later carried on by Shri Jwalaprasad Tiwari - a capable disciple of Shri Sanyal. It is well known that

the great bard Rabindranath Tagore was a beneficiary of pious association with Shri Sanyal for a long time.

Influence of this pious association upon the compositions of the great bard is evident.

Among other traditions, the tradition of Shri Panchanan Bhattacharya, a disciple of Lahiri Mahasaya has done

some important work. His disciple Shri Varadacharan Majumdar initiated in to Kriyayog the famous revolutionary

Netaji Subhashchandra Bose, who contributed extra momentum to Indian freedom struggle, as also the revolutionary

poet Kazi Nasrul Islam and the renowned revolutionary Arvind Ghosh who later became world famous yogi.

All these revolutionaries benefited from the pious association of Shri Varadacharan Majumdar.

Apart from above traditions, Swami Pranavanand and Keshavanand Brahmachari also established their traditions,

but these are almost extinct as of now.