Paramahamsa Hariharananda (1907–2002) was a fully realised Kriya Yoga master of the twentieth century, a disciple of Swami Sri Yukteswar, who later spread the Kriya Yoga science across the world with a rare depth of stillness and divine love. He was also a respected monk-brother of Paramahansa Yogananda.

Early Life and Calling

Born Rabindranath Bhattacharya in Habibpur, Bengal, in 1907, he showed spiritual depth from a young age. He became a disciple of Sri Yukteswar and later received deeper Kriya Yoga initiations from Yogananda himself. Even in his earliest years of practice, he was known for entering deep states of absorption and for the extraordinary stillness that radiated from his presence.

A Rare Depth of Realisation

Hariharananda’s most striking quality was his profound and effortless stillness. Those who sat with him describe a silence so deep that it seemed to draw the mind effortlessly inward — a living testimony to the state of samadhi made flesh. His disciples speak of entering his room and feeling the activity of their own thoughts simply slow down, as if the very atmosphere were charged with peace.

Worldwide Mission

Despite his preference for solitude and silence, Hariharananda travelled tirelessly to share Kriya Yoga. He established centres in India, Europe and the Americas, and trained a dedicated cadre of teachers to carry the work forward. His approach was warm, direct and unpretentious, marked by a sense of humour and an unwavering compassion for every seeker.

Legacy

Hariharananda passed from the body in 2002, leaving behind a flourishing international mission and a living tradition of Kriya Yoga practice. He is remembered not only for the depth of his own realisation but for his ability to transmit that depth to others. His successor, Paramahamsa Prajnanananda, continues the worldwide Kriya Yoga mission today.