Autobiography
of a Yogi – Sri Paramahansa Yogananda : have
seen this book, repeatedly, in almost all Indian book stores and book fares I
have gone into. Never felt like reading it. It’s not that I have an aversion towards
spiritual leaders or books. In fact, I did read few Osho books, Swami Rama’s “Walking
with a Himalayan Master” etc. in the past. Somehow I missed this one. Of late,
while I was reading some other books /articles, this yogi’s name popped up several
times and that is how I decided to buy and read his autobiography.
On the whole, I liked the
book. It was like reading an interesting story, a mix of facts and fictions. Certain
incidents/narrations are hard to believe, like ‘deathless saints’ and the resurrection
of yogis etc, for a 21st century layman like myself. Could be, my
ignorance or may be, because, I’m too much of a realistic person that makes me
feel this way.
This book takes you through
the mystic world of Indian saints and Yogis. It gives a clear account on their sacrifices,
dedication, knowledge on various subjects and simple way of living. I was
amazed to notice that most of the Yogis were well-educated and could handle
multiple Indian and foreign languages fluently. The efforts taken by Sri Yogananda in
spreading the goodness of Kriya Yoga across the globe indeed is remarkable
and admirable.
The personality impressed me
the most in this book is Sri Yukteshwar Giri, the spiritual guru of Sri
Yogananda. He sounds so real, liked his philosophy, especially this one “Good manners without sincerity is like a
beautiful dead lady. Straightforwardness without civility is like a surgeon’s
knife, effective but unpleasant. Candour with courtesy is helpful and
admirable.” And the strength and power of ancient Indian “Guru (teacher)
Sishya( disciple) “ relationship is remarkable.
Reading this book was a
different experience. It kindled a desire in me to search further in to the
world of Indian Yogis and saints for a better understanding of the spiritual
world.
