The legendary Himalayan yogi who claims to have lived for centuries
He has no recorded birthdate or family history, yet disciples claim he has walked the Himalayas for hundreds of years. From 19th-century accountants to the cover of The Beatles' iconic albums, the story of Mahavatar Babaji blends ancient asceticism with modern global culture.
Mahavatar Babally, or the 'Great Avatar Father,' is a figure of profound mystery in the yogic tradition. While many साधु (sadhus) share similar names, this specific figure is identified by his alleged immortality and his role as the guru behind several historic yogis. His presence in the modern consciousness was largely introduced by Paramahansa Yogananda in his famous 'Autobiography of a Yogi,' where he describes Babaji as a master living in the remote Himalayan regions.
The lineage of his influence is documented through a series of encounters. In 1861, Shyāmacharan Lahirī, an accountant for the British government, reported meeting a radiant sadhu in the hills of Dunagiri. This encounter led to the initiation of Kriya Yoga, a practice Babaji instructed Lahirī to spread to the world. Later, in 1894, another disciple, Yukteswar Giri, met him at the Kumbha Mela in Allahabad, noting a striking physical resemblance between the master and his teacher, Lahirī.
The details of his life remain a subject of debate and varying accounts. Some traditions, such as the Kriya Babaji Sangah, claim he was born in 203 CE in a Tamil Nadu village under the name Nagarajan. Other accounts suggest he is much older, potentially dating back 2,000 years due to alleged meetings with Jesus Christ. Regardless of the historical veracity of these dates, his impact is undeniable, influencing everything from the spiritual teachings of the Self-Realization Fellowship to the psychedelic imagery of 1960s rock music.
Source: Mahavatar Babaji
