Kriya Yoga, a sacred and transformative spiritual practice, finds its roots in ancient yogic traditions, particularly within the broader scope of Raja Yoga. The systematized form of Kriya Yoga, as taught by the renowned yogi Paramahansa Yogananda, gained prominence in the 20th century. Let's explore the origins of Kriya Yoga and its journey through time.
Ancient Yogic Roots:
The principles and techniques of Kriya Yoga can be traced back to ancient Indian scriptures, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita. These foundational texts outline various yogic practices aimed at spiritual awakening and self-realization. Kriya Yoga, as a distinct path, emerged from these classical teachings, evolving as a synthesis of ancient wisdom and transformative techniques.
Revival by Lahiri Mahasaya:
Kriya Yoga gained prominence in the 19th century through the revival efforts of the revered yogi Lahiri Mahasaya. Lahiri Mahasaya, a householder yogi and a disciple of the legendary Mahavatar Babaji, reintroduced the Kriya Yoga teachings, which had been kept in a more esoteric and secluded tradition until then.
Lahiri Mahasaya's decision to share Kriya Yoga with sincere seekers marked a turning point, democratizing access to this profound spiritual practice. He emphasized the universality of Kriya Yoga, asserting that it could be practiced by individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their background or societal status.
Paramahansa Yogananda and the Spread of Kriya Yoga:
The global dissemination of Kriya Yoga reached its pinnacle through the efforts of Paramahansa Yogananda, a prominent yogi and spiritual teacher. Yogananda, who authored the spiritual classic "Autobiography of a Yogi," introduced Kriya Yoga to the Western world in the early 20th century.
In 1920, Paramahansa Yogananda established the Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in Los Angeles, California, as a vehicle for disseminating the teachings of Kriya Yoga. The SRF serves as a spiritual organization that provides instruction, guidance, and a community for practitioners of Kriya Yoga.
Kriya Yoga Today:
Today, Kriya Yoga continues to be practiced globally by individuals seeking a direct and transformative path to self-realization. The teachings emphasize the importance of regular practice, ethical living, and the cultivation of inner stillness and awareness. Kriya Yoga is often regarded as a comprehensive system that addresses the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of human existence.
The evolution of Kriya Yoga from ancient yogic principles to its modern dissemination is a testament to its timeless relevance and efficacy in guiding individuals on the path of spiritual awakening. As practitioners embark on the journey of Kriya Yoga, they inherit a legacy that spans centuries, connecting them to the wisdom of the sages and the transformative power of self-discovery.