Swami Rama, the founder of the Himalayan Institute, was born on September 15, 1925 in the small village of Toli in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. His birth name was Brij Kiśore Dhasmana and he was the youngest of eight children. His father, a renowned Ayurvedic physician, recognized his son's spiritual potential from a young age and encouraged him to pursue a spiritual path.

Swami Rama's early years were spent in the Himalayan region, where he received traditional education in Sanskrit, yoga, and meditation. He also studied under several spiritual masters, including his own father, who taught him the principles of Ayurveda and yoga.

At the age of 19, Swami Rama left his home and embarked on a 12-year journey across India, seeking spiritual knowledge and guidance. During this time, he studied with many renowned masters and delved deeper into the practices of yoga and meditation. He also spent time in the caves of the Himalayas, practicing intense austerities and meditation.

In 1947, Swami Rama was initiated into the lineage of the Himalayan Masters by his guru, Bengali Baba. This marked the beginning of his formal spiritual training and he was given the name Swami Rama.

After completing his training, Swami Rama traveled to the West in 1969, at the invitation of the American philosopher and psychologist, Dr. Elmer Green. He spent the next 20 years teaching and sharing his knowledge of yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda with students in the United States and Europe. He also founded the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, which continues to be a leading center for yoga and holistic health.

Throughout his life, Swami Rama wrote over 30 books and gave countless lectures and workshops, inspiring thousands of people to incorporate yoga and meditation into their daily lives. He also established several charitable organizations, including hospitals, schools, and orphanages in India.

Swami Rama passed away on November 13, 1996, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, compassion, and spiritual guidance. His teachings continue to inspire people all over the world, and his impact on the world of yoga and meditation is immeasurable.