Sri Yukteswar Giri

Biography

Sri Yukteswar Giri was born as Priya Nath Karar on May 10, 1855, in Serampore, India. A scholar of science, astrology, and the scriptures, he was deeply devoted to the path of Kriya Yoga and was a disciple of the great Lahiri Mahasaya, a master of the ancient technique.

Sri Yukteswar was known for his sharp intellect and disciplined nature, blending Vedantic wisdom with scientific reasoning. He was not just a spiritual master but also a Jyotishi (Vedic astrologer) and a profound teacher of the Sanatana Dharma (eternal truth).

In 1894, while meditating in Puri, India, Sri Yukteswar had a vision of Mahavatar Babaji, the immortal yogi of the Himalayas. Babaji instructed him to write a book that would unify Western scientific thought with Eastern spiritual wisdom. This resulted in his masterpiece, The Holy Science (Kaivalya Darshan), which explained the cyclical nature of time (Yugas), the connection between consciousness and cosmic forces, and the path to self-realization.

Sri Yukteswar was best known as the guru of Paramahansa Yogananda, whom he trained rigorously in the science of Kriya Yoga. His strict yet loving guidance shaped Yogananda’s mission to bring yoga and Vedantic philosophy to the West.

Sri Yukteswar left his body on March 9, 1936, but his teachings continue to guide seekers on the path of self-realization and divine wisdom.

Core Teachings

1. Kriya Yoga – The Path to Divine Realization

Sri Yukteswar emphasized that self-realization is a scientific process. Through Kriya Yoga, a sacred breath-control technique, a seeker can accelerate spiritual evolution and experience union with the Divine.

2. The Yuga Cycles – Understanding Cosmic Time

Unlike traditional interpretations, Sri Yukteswar redefined the Yuga system and explained that humanity is in the Dwapara Yuga, an age of increasing energy consciousness, rather than the dark age (Kali Yuga).

3. The Balance of Devotion & Wisdom

He taught that bhakti (devotion) and jnana (wisdom) must be in balance for true spiritual progress. A person should cultivate love for God while also deepening their intellectual understanding of divine laws.

4. Simplicity & Self-Discipline

He encouraged a simple, disciplined lifestyle, free from material distractions, to focus on higher consciousness. This included proper diet, daily meditation, and truthfulness in all actions.

5. Mastering the Breath to Master the Mind

According to Sri Yukteswar, breath control leads to mind control. He taught that slowing the breath through yogic techniques allows one to withdraw from restless thoughts and experience inner stillness.

Practical Practices to Incorporate Sri Yukteswar’s Teachings into Life

1. Practice Kriya Yoga Daily

• Sri Yukteswar emphasized that regular Kriya practice purifies the body and mind.

• If initiated, follow the techniques given by an authorized Kriya Yoga master.

• If not yet initiated, begin with conscious deep breathing and focus on the third eye (spiritual eye) during meditation.

2. Align Your Life with the Yuga Cycles

• Understand that humanity is evolving in consciousness; therefore, be open to higher wisdom and energy-based living.

• Reduce attachment to materialism and outdated dogmas—Sri Yukteswar emphasized the science of spirituality over blind belief.

3. Live with Simplicity & Self-Discipline

• Eat pure, sattvic (light, plant-based) food to keep the body and mind clear.

• Wake up early and practice meditation, introspection, and study of sacred texts.

• Speak only truthfully and lovingly, ensuring that words align with higher consciousness.

4. Meditate on the Breath to Master the Mind

• Observe your breath throughout the day—whenever the breath is restless, the mind is restless.

• Before reacting emotionally, pause and take deep breaths to center yourself.

• Try alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana) to harmonize mental energy.

5. Develop Detachment While Remaining Compassionate

• Sri Yukteswar was known for his strict yet deeply compassionate nature.

• Practice non-attachment to worldly distractions while still expressing love and kindness toward all beings.

• View challenges and criticisms as opportunities for inner growth, rather than obstacles.

Legacy

Sri Yukteswar’s influence is most powerfully felt through his disciple, Paramahansa Yogananda, who introduced Kriya Yoga to the West through Autobiography of a Yogi. His scientific approach to spirituality, deep wisdom of the Yugas, and practical path of self-discipline and meditation continue to inspire seekers worldwide.

"Forget the past. The vanished lives of all men are dark with many shames. Human conduct is ever unreliable until anchored in the Divine. Everything in the future will improve if you are making a spiritual effort now." — Sri Yukteswar

Final Thought:

Sri Yukteswar’s teachings remind us that spirituality is a precise science, not just faith. By practicing self-discipline, meditation, and right knowledge, one can awaken divine consciousness and master life itself.