Naropa is a highly revered figure in the history of Indian Buddhism, known for his great wisdom and spiritual teachings. He is particularly significant to the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, as he is considered one of the founding fathers of this tradition.

The Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism was founded by the great Indian master, Tilopa, who was a disciple of Naropa. Tilopa passed on his teachings to Naropa, who in turn transmitted them to his own disciple, Marpa. Marpa then brought these teachings to Tibet and passed them on to his disciple, Milarepa, who is considered one of the most renowned masters of the Kagyu lineage.

Naropa's connection to the Kagyu school can be traced back to his own spiritual journey. He was born into a Brahmin family in Bengal, India and received a traditional Hindu education. However, he was drawn to the Buddhist teachings and renounced his Brahmin heritage to become a monk. He studied under several Buddhist masters and eventually became a renowned scholar and teacher himself.

Naropa's encounter with Tilopa was a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. Tilopa was a tantric master who imparted the teachings of Mahamudra, a form of meditation that focuses on direct realization of the nature of the mind. Naropa became Tilopa's disciple and spent 12 years under his guidance, mastering the practices of Mahamudra.

Naropa's teachings and spiritual practices were deeply rooted in the Mahamudra tradition, and he passed on this knowledge to his disciples, including Marpa. Marpa then brought these teachings to Tibet, where he established the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism.

One of the key teachings of the Kagyu school is the transmission of the Mahamudra teachings from master to disciple in an unbroken lineage. This lineage can be traced back to Naropa, making him an important figure in the Kagyu tradition.

Furthermore, Naropa's teachings and practices have had a profound influence on the Kagyu school, shaping its unique approach to meditation and spiritual realization. His teachings on the Six Yogas of Naropa, a set of advanced tantric practices, are still an integral part of the Kagyu lineage.

In conclusion, Naropa's connection to the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism is significant and multifaceted. He not only played a crucial role in the transmission of the Mahamudra teachings, but also left a lasting impact on the philosophical and spiritual foundations of the Kagyu tradition. His teachings continue to be revered and practiced by Kagyu practitioners, making him a revered figure in this lineage.