Swami Sivananda, the founder of the Divine Life Society, was born on September 8, 1887, in Pattamadai, a small village in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. His birth name was Kuppuswami, and he was the third son of his parents, Sri P.S. Vengu Iyer and Srimati Parvati Ammal.

From a young age, Swami Sivananda showed a keen interest in spiritual matters and was deeply influenced by the teachings of his mother, who was a devout and pious woman. He excelled in his studies and went on to graduate with a degree in medicine from the Tanjore Medical College in 1913.

After working as a doctor for a few years, Swami Sivananda felt a strong inner calling to renounce the material world and dedicate his life to the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. In 1923, at the age of 36, he left his home and family to become a wandering monk.

He traveled extensively throughout India, visiting holy places and meeting with various spiritual masters. He studied and practiced various yogic disciplines, including Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Jnana Yoga, under the guidance of renowned teachers.

In 1924, Swami Sivananda arrived in Rishikesh, a small town in the foothills of the Himalayas, and was immediately drawn to the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the place. He decided to make Rishikesh his permanent home and established the Sivananda Ashram there in 1936.

Swami Sivananda's teachings were a unique blend of the ancient wisdom of Yoga and Vedanta with a modern, practical approach. He emphasized the importance of selfless service, devotion, and meditation as the means to attain inner peace and spiritual realization.

In 1936, Swami Sivananda founded the Divine Life Society, with the aim of spreading the message of Yoga and Vedanta to the world. The society has now grown into a worldwide organization with branches in many countries, dedicated to promoting spiritual and moral values.

Swami Sivananda's simple and practical teachings, along with his compassionate and loving nature, attracted people from all walks of life to him. He wrote over 200 books on various spiritual topics and tirelessly served humanity until his Mahasamadhi (final liberation) on July 14, 1963.

Today, Swami Sivananda's legacy continues through the Divine Life Society and the thousands of individuals who have been inspired by his teachings and strive to live a divine life. His birthplace in Pattamadai has also been converted into a spiritual center, where people can come and learn about his life and teachings.

In conclusion, Swami Sivananda's birth in the humble village of Pattamadai marked the beginning of a great spiritual journey that continues to inspire and guide countless individuals towards a life of