Swami Kripalvananda, also known as Swami Kripalu, was a renowned Kriya Yoga master who dedicated his life to the practice and teaching of this ancient spiritual science. He is known for his deep devotion to his guru, Paramahansa Yogananda, and their relationship is one of great significance and inspiration.

Swami Kripalvananda first met Paramahansa Yogananda in 1947 when he attended one of his lectures in Allahabad, India. At that time, Swami Kripalu was already a well-respected spiritual teacher and had a large following. However, after listening to Yogananda's teachings and experiencing his divine presence, Swami Kripalu was deeply moved and felt an immediate connection with him.

From that moment on, Swami Kripalvananda became a devoted disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda and eagerly absorbed his teachings on Kriya Yoga. He spent the next few years studying and practicing under Yogananda's guidance, and in 1952, he received initiation into Kriya Yoga from him.

The relationship between Swami Kripalvananda and Paramahansa Yogananda was one of love, respect, and deep spiritual connection. Swami Kripalu often referred to Yogananda as his "beloved guru" and saw him as a divine incarnation of God. He considered Yogananda to be his spiritual father and credited him for his spiritual awakening and growth.

Yogananda also had great admiration and love for Swami Kripalvananda, recognizing him as a highly advanced spiritual soul. He saw in Swami Kripalu a pure and sincere devotion to God and a deep understanding of the Kriya Yoga teachings. Yogananda often referred to Swami Kripalu as his "spiritual brother" and praised his dedication to spreading the teachings of Kriya Yoga to the world.

Their relationship was not only one of guru and disciple but also of close friends. Yogananda and Swami Kripalvananda would often spend hours together in deep discussions about spiritual matters and shared a deep bond of brotherhood and mutual love.

Even after Yogananda's passing in 1952, Swami Kripalvananda continued to honor and follow his guru's teachings, dedicating his life to spreading the message of Kriya Yoga. He established several ashrams and centers in India and the United States, where he taught and guided countless students on the path of Kriya Yoga.

In conclusion, the relationship between Swami Kripalvananda and Paramahansa Yogananda was one of deep love, respect, and devotion. Yogananda was not only Swami Kripalu's guru but also his spiritual brother and friend. Their bond serves as a beautiful example of the guru-disciple relationship and continues to inspire many on the path of Kriya Yoga.