Saturday, March 29, 2025
Varanasi, May 4 (NewsUp9) – Legendary yoga guru and Padma Shri recipient Swami Sivananda Saraswati, revered for his unparalleled discipline, spiritual devotion, and service to humanity, passed away in Varanasi on Sunday at the remarkable age of 129.
A wave of grief swept through Varanasi as devotees, followers, and locals gathered to pay homage to the spiritual stalwart who lived an austere, purpose-driven life. Known not only for his deep knowledge of yoga but also for his dedication to the marginalized, Swami Sivananda continued practicing yoga and living independently until his final days.
Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2022, Sivananda Baba was a symbol of resilience and selfless service. Born in colonial India, his life journey spanned over a century, during which he touched countless lives, including those suffering from leprosy and poverty.
Local resident and long-time devotee Dharmendra Singh Tinku shared his memories with NewsUp9:
“We had been seeing Swami Sivananda Baba since 1998. Even at 129, he practiced yoga with incredible agility. He was a saint who treated everyone with equal warmth and respect. He never relied on anyone and maintained a lifestyle of complete discipline and simplicity.”
Another follower, Parimal Mukherjee, who spent six years closely associated with the yogi, described the impact Sivananda had on his life:
“He was a divine force. Just watching him changed me. He dedicated himself to helping the poor and the sick. Such souls are rare.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), sharing a heartfelt tribute and a previously clicked photo with the centenarian monk. The Prime Minister praised Swami Sivananda’s unwavering commitment to health, harmony, and humanitarian work.
Swami Sivananda’s demise marks the end of an era, but his teachings and actions will continue to inspire generations. His remarkable longevity, coupled with an unshakable spirit of seva (service), made him not just a yoga guru but a living legend.
