2020 - Sri Shyamacharan Lahiree Mahasaya | Commemorative Coin

The 3rd commemorative coin of 2020 was released to mark the 125th Departure Anniversary of Sri Shyamacharan Lahiree Mahasaya.

Sri Shyamacharan Lahiree Mahasaya, revered as Lahiri Mahasaya, remains one of the most influential spiritual masters of modern India, remembered for bringing the ancient science of Kriya Yoga back into the lives of householders and seekers from all walks of life. Born on 30 September 1828 in Ghurni, a village in Nadia district of Bengal, he grew up in an environment steeped in devotion, culture, and spiritual inclination. From an early age, Lahiree Mahasaya displayed qualities of humility, discipline, and a deep inner stillness—traits that would later define his spiritual stature.

Lahiree Mahasaya’s life took a transformative turn in 1861 when he was posted to Ranikhet as a government accountant. It was here, amidst the Himalayan foothills, that he encountered the legendary Mahavatar Babaji, who initiated him into the sacred practice of Kriya Yoga—an esoteric technique believed to accelerate spiritual evolution by harmonizing breath, mind, and life force. This initiation not only awakened Lahiree Mahasaya’s latent spiritual potential but also marked the revival of Kriya Yoga for the modern age.

What made Lahiree Mahasaya extraordinary was his steadfast commitment to demonstrating that spiritual realization was not confined to renunciates or ascetics. He lived the life of a devoted householder, balancing his responsibilities as a family man and government employee while attaining the highest states of yogic consciousness. In doing so, he became a bridge between ancient yogic wisdom and contemporary life, proving that inner awakening was achievable amidst worldly duties.

As disciples gathered around him in growing numbers, Lahiree Mahasaya taught Kriya Yoga discreetly and sincerely, allowing seekers from diverse backgrounds—scholars, officials, soldiers, householders, and monks—to experience the transformative power of yogic discipline. He maintained no formal institution and encouraged a life of simplicity, truthfulness, meditation, and devotion to the Divine. His message remained clear: spiritual progress is rooted in personal effort, self-discipline, and direct inner experience.

Lahiree Mahasaya’s influence extended far beyond his immediate disciples. His teachings inspired a whole lineage of spiritual luminaries, including Swami Sri Yukteswar, Swami Pranabananda, and ultimately Paramahansa Yogananda, who carried the message of Kriya Yoga worldwide through his renowned work Autobiography of a Yogi. Through this lineage, Lahiree Mahasaya became known globally as a silent saint whose life transformed millions without publicity or institution-building.

He attained mahasamadhi on 26 September 1895, leaving behind a legacy rooted in inner realization, quiet strength, and universal love. Today, Lahiree Mahasaya is remembered not only as a great yogi but as a symbol of spiritual democratization—a master who showed that divine communion lies within the reach of every sincere seeker. His life continues to inspire generations to pursue the path of meditation, introspection, and self-realization, carrying forward the timeless flame of Kriya Yoga.

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