Our Lineage: A Tradition of Love & Service

Hanuman: The Embodiment of Devotion and Service

Hanuman, the beloved monkey deity of the Ramayana, is the ultimate symbol of selfless devotion (bhakti) and unwavering service (seva). His love for Lord Rama transcends the boundaries of self, embodying the pure surrender of the ego in devotion to the Divine. Hanuman’s strength, humility, and wisdom inspire us to serve others with open hearts and fearless love.

In the tradition of Neem Karoli Baba’s Satsang, Hanuman is not seen as a distant mythological figure, but as an active presence—guiding, protecting, and uplifting those who turn to him. Devotees chant the Hanuman Chalisa and meditate on his form, finding strength in his boundless grace.

“When I do not know who I am, I serve You. When I know who I am, I am You.” – Hanuman

Neem Karoli Baba, affectionately known as Maharajji, was a 20th-century Hindu saint whose presence radiated boundless love. He did not lecture or write books but transformed lives through his simple yet profound message:
Love Everyone. Serve Everyone. Remember God.

Maharajji’s presence was itself the teaching—his unconditional love shattered the ego, leaving only devotion behind. He guided seekers from all walks of life, including householders, renunciates, and Westerners drawn to his grace. His ashram at Kainchi Dham remains a sacred pilgrimage site where his blessings continue to flow.

Maharajji was known for his playful, enigmatic ways—he would know his devotees’ thoughts before they spoke, perform miracles with ease, and yet demand no recognition. He urged people toward simplicity, truth, and love, reminding us that the Divine is always near, closer than we think.

“Where there is faith, there is love; where there is love, there is peace; where there is peace, there is truth; where there is truth, there is God.” – Neem Karoli Baba

“Feed people. Serve people. Love people.”

– Neem Karoli Baba

After Maharajji’s mahasamadhi (passing) in 1973, his closest disciple, Sri Siddhi Ma, became the spiritual mother of the Satsang. Though she shunned recognition and avoided public attention, those who came to her knew they were in the presence of a true saint. She embodied Maharajji’s love, grace, and wisdom, silently guiding and protecting devotees for over 40 years.

Sri Siddhi Ma was the living link to Maharajji’s teachings—she upheld the traditions of the ashram, cared for devotees, and led them deeper into devotion through her presence alone. Her life was a testament to surrender and humility, reminding us that true realization is found not in words, but in absolute love and service.

Even today, her blessings continue to be felt by those who turn to her in prayer, just as Maharajji’s grace is ever-present.

“Maharajji is always with you. Just remember him.” – Sri Siddhi Ma

Ram Dass: Bridging East and West

Ram Dass, formerly known as Richard Alpert, was a Harvard professor turned spiritual seeker whose life was forever changed after meeting Neem Karoli Baba in 1967. Under Maharajji’s grace, he shed his academic identity and became Ram Dass (Servant of Ram), dedicating his life to sharing the wisdom of the East with the West. His seminal book, Be Here Now, became a gateway to spirituality for generations of seekers, offering a roadmap to presence, devotion, and inner awakening.

Through his teachings, retreats, and compassionate service, Ram Dass embodied the fusion of bhakti (devotion) and karma yoga (selfless service), reminding us to keep our hearts open and to see God in everyone. His later years, spent in a wheelchair after a stroke, became an even deeper teaching—of surrender, grace, and loving awareness.

His legacy lives on in the Love Serve Remember Foundation, in the hearts of those he touched, and in the living tradition of this Satsang.

“We’re all just walking each other home.” – Ram Dass