Celebrating the Birth of Ramana Maharshi: A Journey into the Eternal Self

Ramana Maharshi 30 Decembrie  1879 - 14 Aprilie 1950

Today marks the birth of Ramana Maharshi. According to the Western calendar, this date is fixed; however, in the Indian calendar, it varies. The next celebration will be on January 4, 2026.

Arunachala: The Sacred Mountain

Muntele Arunachala

Ramana Maharshi made a pivotal decision to journey to Arunachala, a sacred mountain located about 200 kilometers southwest of Madras. This choice was not random. As a child, he felt a profound reverence whenever he heard the name "Arunachala." Until a relative corrected him, he believed Arunachala to be a celestial realm.

Later, he would tell people that Arunachala was his Guru, the Master who guided him. He believed that the power of Arunachala was what fulfilled his realization and drew him toward its physical form.

A Transformative Encounter

"I sat down, and Bhagavan looked at me intently in silence for 10-15 minutes. As he gazed at me, I felt an intense sensation of physical relief and relaxation. It was as if I had submerged myself in a cool pool after being out in the sun..."

"It wasn't a brief embrace. Later, Madhava Swami told me that Bhagavan held me tightly for about two minutes. After a few seconds, I completely lost awareness of my own body and the world around me. Initially, there was a feeling of joy and bliss, but soon it was replaced by a state devoid of sensations and experiences. I didn't lose consciousness; I simply ceased to be aware of what was happening around me. I remained in this state for about 15 minutes. When I regained my usual perception of the world, I found myself standing alone in the bathroom."

— Annamalai Swami in Traind dupa invatatura lui Bhagavan by David Goodman, Ed. Herald, 2020

The Essence of Birth

In the context of Ramana Maharshi, the concept of birth transcends the physical. He believed that true birth occurs when one "is born" into the Eternal Being through the realization of the Self. He once remarked that celebrating a birthday is akin to "adorning and glorifying a corpse." Instead, he urged us to ponder, "Who was born?"

The Indian Calendar and Its Significance

In India, the panchangam calendar is followed. Birthdays are celebrated based on the tithi or star of that day, unlike the Gregorian calendar. Thus, birthdays do not always fall on the same date. They are celebrated according to the tithi or the star of birth.

Insights from Annamalai Swami

Annamalai Swami lived in Ramana Ashram from 1928 to 1938. During this time, he oversaw the construction of the building under Ramana's direct guidance. His experiences offer a window into the daily life of the ashram, revealing how Ramana's grace touched everything—from the daily preparation of food to the care of animals and the land. He patiently redirected seekers' attention to their inner Self, even amidst trials and tribulations.

The book serves as an intentional filter, revealing the intricate tapestry of interactions that shape, transmit, and organize what we call the ordinary.

Reflections on the Nature of Existence

"Nobody should be inferior to us. The one who has learned to be inferior will become superior to all." This profound statement reminds us of the inherent equality in existence. Only a person who is nothing can truly dwell in the Self.

In conclusion, as we celebrate the birth of Ramana Maharshi, let us reflect on the deeper meanings of existence and the journey toward self-realization. The teachings of Ramana Maharshi continue to inspire and guide us, urging us to look beyond the surface and seek the eternal truth within ourselves.