Swami Chinmayananda
- Born:
- 8 May 1916, Ernakulam, Kingdom of Cochin, British India
- Died:
- 3 August 1993, San Diego, California, USA
- Nationality:
- Indian
- Profession(s):
- Hindu Spiritual Leader, Vedanta Teacher, Author
Early Life and Education
- Born Balakrishna Menon.
- Studied law and journalism.
- Became involved in the Indian independence movement.
- Sought answers to existential questions, leading him to spiritual inquiry.
Career and Major Achievements
- Initiated into sannyasa (monastic life) in 1949 by Swami Sivananda Saraswati.
- Began a mission of teaching Vedanta in 1951.
- Founded the Chinmaya Mission, a global organization dedicated to spreading Vedanta.
- Conducted hundreds of Jnana Yajnas (discourses on Vedanta) worldwide.
- Established educational institutions, including schools and colleges.
- Pioneered the Chinmaya Youth Movement (CHYK).
- Initiated the Bal Vihar program for children.
Notable Works
- Authored numerous books on Vedanta and Hindu scriptures.
- Commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and other sacred texts.
- Established Chinmaya Publications for disseminating his teachings.
Legacy and Impact
Swami Chinmayananda's enduring legacy lies in his revitalisation of Vedanta and its accessibility to a modern audience. Through his Chinmaya Mission, he established a global network of spiritual centers, educational institutions, and charitable projects, fostering spiritual growth and community service.