One of the most prominent religious figures of India during the nineteenth century, Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa was a mystic and a yogi who translated complex spiritual concepts into a lucid and easily intelligible manner.
Born on February 18, 1836, Ramakrishna was a spiritual guru. However, in 2022 his birth anniversary is celebrated on Dwitiya Tithi during the month of Phalguna, Shukla Paksha, as per the Hindu lunar calendar. The Dwitiya tithi starts at 9.36 pm on March 3 and ends at 8.45 pm on March 4, 2022.
Ramakrishna was as simple yogi. He pursued the Divine throughout his life in various forms and believed in divine embodiment of the Supreme Being in every individual. Sometimes believed to be the modern day reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, Ramakrishna was the embodiment of spiritual salvation to troubled souls from all walks of life.
He was a key figure in revival of Hinduism in Bengal at a time when intense spiritual crisis was gripping the province leading to predominance of young Bengalis embracing Brahmoism and Christianity. His legacy did not end with his death in 1886; his most prominent disciple Swami Vivekananda carried on his teachings and philosophy to the world through Ramakrishna Mission. In essence, his teachings were as traditional as ancient sages and seer, yet he remains contemporary throughout the ages.
Sri Ramakrishna was rewarded the title of ‘Paramahamsa’ by one of his Guru from Punjab who was a naked monk, Vedantic guru Totapuri.
The 19th-century saint was recalled for his service and dedication to Hindu philosophy, which attracted followers. He earned respect and affection from his devotees, who desired spiritual enlightenment. Ramakrishna was a devotee of Goddess Kali (Maa Kali) and dedicated his life to Maa Kali at Kolkata’s popular Dakshineshwar Kali temple.
Ramakrishna’s teachings were dedicated to Maa Kali, and he later became the Dakshineshwar temple priest.
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