Varanasi, May 4 – Swami Sivananda, the celebrated yoga guru and recipient of the Padma Shri, passed away at the age of 128 in Varanasi. As per agency report, the revered spiritual leader had been admitted to Banaras Hindu University Hospital on April 30 due to health complications and breathed his last on Saturday night.
Born on August 8, 1896, in the Sylhet district of present-day Bangladesh, Swami Sivananda overcame immense hardships from a young age. He lost both parents to starvation when he was only six years old and was later raised by Omkarnand, under whose guidance he pursued education and spiritual knowledge.
Swami Sivananda gained nationwide recognition for his disciplined and austere lifestyle. His followers noted that he attributed his longevity to a simple, self-reliant routine. He would rise at 3 AM every day to practice yoga, perform all his chores himself, consume only boiled food, and sleep on a mat. In 2022, he was honored with the Padma Shri for his lifelong dedication to yoga and social service.
The mortal remains of Swami Sivananda have been kept at his residence in Kabirnagar Colony for public homage, and his funeral is scheduled for Sunday evening.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss, calling Swami Sivananda’s demise an irreparable loss for the people of Kashi and countless admirers across the country. In a social media post, he praised the guru’s unwavering commitment to yoga and spiritual discipline, noting that his life would continue to inspire generations.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tribute, describing the passing as deeply saddening. He highlighted Swami Sivananda’s unparalleled contributions to the field of yoga and commended the guru’s lifelong dedication to spreading yogic wisdom. The Chief Minister prayed for the departed soul and offered strength to the grieving followers.
Swami Sivananda's extraordinary life, rooted in self-discipline and devotion, stands as a profound example of the power of simplicity, spiritual commitment, and service to humanity.
