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What was the purpose of the ashram founded by Swami Sivananda?
The purpose of the ashram founded by Swami Sivananda was to provide a spiritual retreat for individuals seeking inner peace and enlightenment. Swami Sivananda believed that true happiness and fulfillment could only be achieved through a dedicated spiritual practice and a life of selfless service.
The Divine Life Society ashram, located in Rishikesh, India, was established in 1936 and became a sanctuary for seekers of all backgrounds and faiths. Swami Sivananda envisioned the ashram as a place where people could come to learn and practice the ancient teachings of Yoga, Vedanta, and other spiritual disciplines.
The ashram was also a center for humanitarian work, as Swami Sivananda believed in the importance of serving others and spreading love and compassion. The ashram provided free medical care, education, and food to the local community, as well as to those in need who came from far and wide.
At the ashram, Swami Sivananda emphasized the importance of selfless service, or karma yoga, as a means of spiritual growth. He believed that by serving others, one could transcend their ego and connect with the divine within themselves and others.
The ashram also served as a hub for spiritual education and dissemination of knowledge. Swami Sivananda wrote over 200 books on various spiritual topics, and the ashram became a center for the study and practice of these teachings. Regular lectures, classes, and workshops were held for visitors to learn and deepen their understanding of spirituality.
In addition to spiritual education and service, the ashram also provided a peaceful and serene environment for individuals to retreat and focus on their inner growth. The natural beauty of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and the holy river Ganges added to the tranquil atmosphere of the ashram.
Through the Divine Life Society ashram, Swami Sivananda aimed to create a community of like-minded individuals who were dedicated to spiritual growth, selfless service, and spreading love and peace in the world. The ashram continues to carry on his legacy and remains a popular destination for spiritual seekers from all over the world.