Ramakrishna Mission President Swami Smaranananda Maharaj Passes Away; PM Modi, Mamata Banerjee Pay Tribute

Ramakrishna Mission President Swami Smaranananda Maharaj Passes Away; PM Modi, Mamata Banerjee Pay Tribute

Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, the president of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, breathed his last in Kolkata on Monday evening at the age of 95. According to a statement issued by the mission, he had been suffering from age-related ailments.

Swami Smaranananda Maharaj assumed the role of the 16th president of the order in 2017. He joined the organisation in 1952. His cremation is scheduled to take place at Belur Math on Tuesday.

The revered spiritual leader had been admitted to a south Kolkata hospital run by the Mission. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the hospital on March 5 during his second visit to Bengal this year to inquire about Swami Smaranananda Maharaj’s health.

Following the demise of Swami Smaranananda Maharaj, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his condolences in a heartfelt message. He praised the spiritual leader for his dedication to spirituality and service, highlighting his profound impact on countless individuals.

Modi reminisced about his close relationship with Swami Smaranananda Maharaj over the years, including interactions during visits to Belur Math in 2020 and a recent hospital visit in Kolkata.

“Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission dedicated his life to spirituality and service. He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations.” Modi wrote.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her deep sadness at the passing of Swami Smaranananda Maharaj. She lauded his contributions to spiritual leadership and his role in providing solace to millions of devotees worldwide.

Banerjee extended her heartfelt condolences to the fellow monks, followers, and devotees of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.

“Deeply saddened at the news of the demise tonight of Srimat Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj, the revered president of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. This great monk during his lifetime has given spiritual leadership to the world order of the Ramakrishnaites and remains the source of solace for millions of devotees across the globe. I convey my deepest condolence to all his fellow monks, followers and devotees,” she wrote.

President Droupadi Murmu, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President JP Nadda also expressed condolences to all affected by the loss.