Sri Yukteswar Giri was a highly revered spiritual master and guru of Paramahansa Yogananda, the renowned Indian yogi and author of the spiritual classic "Autobiography of a Yogi". Their connection was not just that of a teacher and student, but a deep spiritual bond that transcended time and space.

Sri Yukteswar was born in 1855 in Serampore, India, and was a disciple of the great saint and yogi, Lahiri Mahasaya. He was a highly evolved soul, with a deep understanding of the ancient Vedic scriptures and the teachings of yoga and meditation. He was known for his wisdom, compassion, and spiritual guidance, and many sought his counsel and blessings.

Paramahansa Yogananda, born in 1893, was drawn to spirituality from a young age and had a deep longing to find a true guru who could guide him on his spiritual path. In 1910, at the age of 17, he met Sri Yukteswar for the first time and immediately recognized him as his guru. Sri Yukteswar also saw the potential in Yogananda and accepted him as his disciple.

Under the guidance of Sri Yukteswar, Yogananda delved deeper into the study and practice of yoga and meditation, and also received training in the ancient science of Kriya Yoga. Sri Yukteswar taught him the importance of balancing spiritual practices with practical responsibilities, and how to find the divine within oneself.

Their relationship was one of mutual love, respect, and devotion. Sri Yukteswar saw Yogananda as his spiritual successor and gave him the task of spreading the teachings of Kriya Yoga to the West. Yogananda, in turn, was deeply grateful to Sri Yukteswar for his guidance and often referred to him as his "Divine Father".

Even after Yogananda left for the United States in 1920 to fulfill his guru's mission, he maintained a close connection with Sri Yukteswar through letters and telegrams. Sri Yukteswar continued to guide and support Yogananda in his spiritual endeavors, and Yogananda often sought his blessings and advice.

Their bond remained unbroken even after Sri Yukteswar's passing in 1936. Yogananda often spoke of his guru with great reverence and credited him for his spiritual awakening and growth. He also established the Self-Realization Fellowship in honor of Sri Yukteswar and dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of yoga and meditation to the world.

In conclusion, the connection between Sri Yukteswar and Paramahansa Yogananda was one of a true guru and disciple, based on love, trust, and spiritual growth. Their relationship continues to inspire and guide countless seekers on the path of self-realization.