Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, also known as Gurudeva, was a highly revered Hindu spiritual leader who was born on January 5, 1927 in Oakland, California. He was born to a devout Hindu family of Sri Lankan Tamil descent. His parents, Siva and Shanmuga Subramuniyaswami, were deeply devoted to Lord Murugan, the Hindu deity of war and victory.

Gurudeva's early years were spent in California, where he received a Western education and was exposed to various religions and spiritual traditions. However, his spiritual journey truly began at the age of 19 when he traveled to India and met his guru, the renowned yogi and sage, Siva Yogaswami. Under his guidance, Gurudeva embarked on a path of intense spiritual practice and study.

In 1949, at the age of 22, Gurudeva was initiated into the holy order of sannyas, renouncing all worldly attachments and dedicating his life to the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and service. He received the name Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, which means "servant of Siva, the auspicious one."

Gurudeva spent the next several years traveling and studying under various spiritual masters in India, Sri Lanka, and other parts of Asia. In 1957, he founded the Saiva Siddhanta Church in Hawaii, which became the headquarters of his spiritual organization, Himalayan Academy. He also established Kauai Aadheenam, a traditional Hindu monastery and spiritual retreat center, on the island of Kauai.

Throughout his life, Gurudeva tirelessly worked to spread the teachings of Hinduism and promote interfaith understanding and harmony. He authored numerous books on Hindu philosophy, meditation, and yoga, and also founded the international magazine, Hinduism Today, which is still in publication today.

Gurudeva's teachings were deeply rooted in the ancient Saiva Siddhanta tradition, which emphasizes the path of self-realization through the worship of Lord Siva. He also emphasized the importance of living a balanced and harmonious life, incorporating spiritual practices into everyday activities.

On November 12, 2001, Gurudeva peacefully left his physical body at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. His teachings continue to inspire and guide countless seekers on their spiritual journey, and his impact on the global Hindu community is immeasurable.

In conclusion, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami was born on January 5, 1927 in Oakland, California and spent his life dedicated to the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and service. His teachings continue to touch the hearts and minds of people around the world, and his legacy lives on through the many spiritual organizations and institutions he founded.