NEW PRESIDENT OF THE RAMAKRISHNA ORDER (Sep )
By Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj
Summary
Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj, born in 1929 in Andami, Tamil Nadu, became the 16th President of the Ramakrishna Order in July 2017. Raised by his aunt after his mother’s early death, he excelled academically, completing secondary education in Chennai and later pursuing commerce in Nasik. Influenced by Gandhi’s teachings and Napoleon Hill’s self-help books, he began repeating “Sri Rama,” a practice that profoundly impacted his life. A transformative moment occurred during a solitary walk at Worli Beach in Mumbai, where he experienced a profound realization of his inner divine presence. This led him to explore Ramakrishna-Vivekananda literature, including *The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna* and *Jnana Yoga*. In 1952, at age 22, he joined the Mumbai Ashrama as a Brahmacharin on Sri Ramakrishna’s birthday, later receiving Mantra Diksha and Sannyasa ordination under Swami Shankaranandaji Maharaj. His monastic journey included roles at Advaita Ashrama, Mayavati, and Saradapitha, where he contributed to education, rural welfare, and disaster relief efforts. As Secretary of Saradapitha, he expanded its educational and welfare programs, notably during the 1978 West Bengal floods. In 1991, he became Head of Sri Ramakrishna Math, Chennai, overseeing the construction of the current temple. Appointed Trustee and Governing Body Member in 1983, he later served as Assistant Secretary and General Secretary, leading the global Ramakrishna Movement for a decade until 2007. As Vice-President, he traveled extensively, spreading Vedantic teachings and providing spiritual guidance. His election as President in 2017 followed a decade of service as Vice-President, marked by dedication to propagating the Ramakrishna legacy worldwide.
Conclusion
Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj’s election as the 16th President of the Ramakrishna Order marks a significant chapter in the organization’s history, blending spiritual leadership with practical service. His journey—from a self-driven seeker influenced by Gandhi and Napoleon Hill to a monk deeply rooted in Ramakrishna-Vivekananda’s teachings—underscores the transformative power of introspection and devotion. His leadership across various roles, from disaster relief in Aurangabad to expanding educational and rural welfare at Saradapitha, reflects a commitment to the Order’s mission of service and spiritual upliftment. As President, his extensive global engagement and dedication to spreading Vedantic principles will likely strengthen the Ramakrishna Movement’s worldwide presence, ensuring its enduring relevance and impact.