In the year 1983, Swami Prakasananda Maharaj laid the foundation of the Shri Govind Jeevan Ashram. However, his spiritual journey began much earlier, in 1960, on 15th April, when he received initiation from Swami Bodhananda ji Maharaj in Haridwar. Following his guru’s instructions, Swamiji embarked on a tour of India, visiting various states such as Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Gujarat. During his travels, he practiced intense austerity and sought guidance from revered saints like Shri Shri Anandamayi Maa, Shri Akhandananda Saraswati, Shri Omkar Nath Sitaram, Swami Shri Ashishananda Maharaj, Shri Devriya Baba, and many others.
Throughout his spiritual quest, Swamiji engaged in tapasya (austerity) at significant locations such as Songarh in Madhya Pradesh, Rasamgaon in Maharashtra, and Kanchangarh in Kerala. He spent time with Swami Brahmananda, deepening his understanding of the Ramayana. Swamiji also walked a remarkable 70 kilometers with Swami Trilokinath in Himachal Pradesh. In subsequent years, he resided in Kullu, Uttarkashi, and other secluded places, where he immersed himself in rigorous tapa (penance) for extended periods. During winters, he sought warmth in Gujarat, exploring regions like Gandhidham, Anjar, Bhuj, Nareshwar, Koteshwar, Mata ka Math, Dwarka, Ranabav, Porbandar, Somnath Jotirlinga, Valhari, Junagarh, and Shri Girnar.
Swamiji’s spiritual pursuits also led him to Nadiyad, Santram Mandir, Pujya Noraji’s Yon Mandir, and the sacred places along the banks of the Shri Narmada river. He cherished satsangs (spiritual discourses) with holy saints at these locations, embracing the spiritual vibrations that permeated the surroundings. Every year, he made it a point to visit Dwarka, where he sought darshan (sacred sight) of his beloved deity, Shri Krishna. He then immersed himself in devotional singing (bhajan) at villages in Jamnagar, guiding devotees on the righteous path.
Swamiji’s spiritual influence extended beyond India’s borders. Responding to the pleas of his devotees, he embarked on journeys to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and other places. His observations revealed that while these places offered material pleasures, they lacked inner peace and spiritual fulfillment. Swamiji observed that people’s lives were marked by depression, anxiety, and fear, making it challenging for them to embrace spiritual practices and exhibit bravery.
The teachings of Govind Jeevan Ashram emphasize several key principles. Firstly, life’s ultimate purpose should revolve around God rather than familial relationships. Swamiji elucidated the significance of the name “Govind,” representing the divine force that controls our senses and leads us toward spiritual growth. He stressed the importance of knowledge in controlling the mind and senses, highlighting the distinction between external book knowledge and the transformative knowledge gained through sadhana (spiritual practice). Swamiji emphasized the need for humility and surrender in the pursuit of knowledge, as true peace of mind can only be attained through complete surrender to the divine.
Deep within the serene landscapes of Paraor village in Palampur, nestled amidst snow-laden mountains and lush green forests, lies the enchanting sanctuary of Shri Govind Jeevan Ashram. This sacred haven has become a spiritual magnet, attracting people from all corners of the world who seek solace, service, satsang (spiritual discourse), and bhajan (devotional singing). Here, amidst the peaceful surroundings, devotees experience a profound sense of tranquility and spiritual vibrations that resonate within their souls.
The Ashram, founded in 1983, owes its existence to the humble efforts and unwavering dedication of Swami Prakasananda Maharaj. Over the years, countless individuals who crossed paths with Swamiji sought initiation from him and were inspired to tread the ascetic path. These devoted disciples, driven by their deep connection with Swamiji’s teachings, have since devoted their lives to the service of humanity and the pursuit of spiritual growth.
To nourish and invigorate his disciples on their spiritual journey, Swamiji initiated the annual Sant Sammelan (Saints’ Convention) and organized large gatherings at holy places across the country. In 2003, the convention was held in Haridwar, followed by Chitrakoot in 2004 and Sukratam in Uttar Pradesh in 2005. These auspicious events provided devotees with the opportunity to interact with revered saints, absorbing their profound teachings and guidance.
As the number of disciples grew, the Ashram expanded its infrastructure to accommodate their needs for sadhana (spiritual practice) and satsangs. In the border village of Khijaria in Gujarat, an Ashram was constructed, which has flourished into a vibrant center for spiritual seekers in the region. Annually, the Ashram hosts service activities and Guru puja (reverential worship of the spiritual master) at these locations. In Telka village, near Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, Swami Praladananda guides devotees on the path of service, satsang, and devotion. Swami Premananda, another disciple of Swamiji, has been actively involved in propagating yoga in Jamnagar and Telka. Similarly, Swami Permananda has been traveling along the Narmada River, spreading his guru’s message far and wide.
Swamiji’s spiritual quest took him on a pilgrimage across various holy sites in India and neighboring Nepal. In Nepal, he visited Kathmandu, Cholgiri, Annapurna, Pokhra, and Bodh Temple, immersing himself in the divine presence. At the revered Pashupatinath Temple, Swamiji contemplated the tradition of animal sacrifice and urged devotees to symbolically sacrifice their animal nature for spiritual growth. He also sought blessings at the Kamakhya Devi Temple, renowned as the abode of Tantra. Swamiji’s journey further led him to explore the spiritual landscapes of Kerala, Kanyakumari, Kanchangarh, Kanchipeeth, Arunachalam, Pondicherry, and the ashram of Maharishi Aurobindo. He also visited Daman & Diu, tracing the footsteps of revered saints and gaining deep insights into their teachings.
Throughout his travels, Swamiji took every opportunity to immerse himself in the local culture, traditions, and saints associated with each place. He would stay at the hermitages and sacred sites where great saints had resided, engaging in rigorous spiritual practices and absorbing their wisdom. Swamiji would then share these profound teachings with his disciples, offering them invaluable guidance on their own spiritual journeys. He also made a significant impact by fostering connections with contemporary saints and engaging in satsangs with them.
In 1998, Swamiji embarked on a transformative journey to the United States and Canada. He conducted satsangs in temples, where numerous disciples received initiation from him. In 2004, he ventured to Scotland, England, and America, highlighting the significance of Indian culture and its profound teachings amidst the Western traditions. Swamiji’s enlightening satsangs served as a bridge between cultures, nurturing a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian spirituality.
One particular incident exemplifies the spiritual potency of Swamiji’s blessings. Vijay Siyal, a disciple, received mantra diksha (initiation) from Swamiji, who assured him that this mantra could unlock any door. After six years of unsuccessful attempts to obtain a visa to the United States, Vijay Siyal’s application miraculously moved forward, leading to an interview at the US Consulate and the subsequent granting of a temporary visa. Vijay Siyal later cleared the entrance exam, securing a bright future for himself and his family in the United States. This momentous event marked the beginning of Swamiji’s connection with the Indian diaspora, nurturing spiritual growth even in distant lands.
With the ardent requests of his disciples, Swamiji chose Paraor village in Palampur as the site for his hermitage. Through the combined efforts of devotees from Gujarat and Punjab, the hermitage was built, marking the foundation of Shri Govind Jeevan Ashram. Swamiji’s simple yet powerful presence, accompanied by regular satsangs and bhajans, soon transformed the Ashram into a spiritual home for nearby villagers. Many seekers renounced their vices and embraced a virtuous path after receiving initiation. As the number of disciples swelled, the Ashram expanded, constructing temples dedicated to various deities to facilitate the sadhana of the devotees.
Swami Prakasananda Maharaj’s remarkable journey continues to inspire countless souls, drawing them towards the path of spirituality, service, and devotion. Through his tireless efforts, he has created an oasis of peace and enlightenment, offering solace to those who seek it. The Ashram’s annual rituals, such as Sakranti celebrations featuring service, satsang, and food for guests, along with Swamiji’s profound insights into yoga, have become cherished traditions. The grand celebrations of Guru Puja, filled with enthusiasm and reverence, further reinforce the spiritual bond between Swamiji and his disciples.
In the serene embrace of Shri Govind Jeevan Ashram, the divine essence of Swami Prakasananda Maharaj permeates every corner, enveloping all who visit in a blissful aura of spirituality. Here, people from diverse backgrounds and corners of the globe find a common ground, united in their quest for inner peace and higher truths. The legacy of Swami Prakasananda Maharaj continues to illuminate the path, guiding disciples towards the eternal light of spiritual enlightenment.
