Sant Mat, also known as the Path of Inner Light and Sound, is a spiritual tradition that originated in India thousands of years ago. Its roots can be traced back to the ancient Vedic scriptures and the teachings of various saints and sages.

The term "Sant Mat" literally means "the path of the saints" and refers to the spiritual path of self-realization and union with the divine. It is based on the belief that every human being has a spark of the divine within them and can attain spiritual enlightenment through inner experiences of light and sound.

The history of Sant Mat can be divided into three main phases - ancient, medieval, and modern.

The ancient phase of Sant Mat dates back to the Vedic period, around 1500 BCE. The Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, contain references to the concept of inner light and sound, meditation, and the path of the saints. The Upanishads, a collection of philosophical texts, also mention the importance of inner experiences in attaining spiritual enlightenment.

During the medieval phase, from the 12th to the 18th century, Sant Mat was further developed and propagated by various saints and sages in India. These include Kabir, Guru Nanak, Tulsi Sahib, and Soami Ji Maharaj. They emphasized the importance of a living spiritual teacher, known as a Satguru, who could guide seekers on the path of inner light and sound.

In the 19th century, Sant Mat was brought to the West by Maharshi Shiv Brat Lal, a disciple of Soami Ji Maharaj. He introduced the teachings to Western seekers and established the Radhasoami movement in the United States. Later, in the 20th century, Sant Mat was popularized by Sant Kirpal Singh and Sant Darshan Singh, who spread the teachings to Europe, North America, and other parts of the world.

Today, Sant Mat is practiced by people of all backgrounds and religions around the world. It continues to evolve and adapt to modern times while staying true to its ancient roots. The teachings of Sant Mat emphasize the importance of living a moral and ethical life, meditation, and developing a personal relationship with the divine.

In conclusion, the history of Sant Mat is a rich and diverse one, spanning thousands of years and multiple cultures. It is a spiritual tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to guide seekers on their journey towards inner peace and enlightenment.