Ramesh Balsekar
How did Ramesh Balsekar become an Advaita teacher?
Ramesh Balsekar was born in Mumbai, India in 1917. He was a successful banker and had a successful career in the corporate world. However, in his early 40s, he started to question the purpose of life and the meaning of existence. This led him on a spiritual journey, seeking answers to his questions.
He came across the teachings of Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj, a renowned Advaita teacher, and was deeply influenced by them. Maharaj's teachings revolved around the concept of non-duality, where the individual self is an illusion and the ultimate reality is the oneness of everything.
Balsekar became a devoted student of Maharaj and spent several years studying and absorbing his teachings. He also had the opportunity to attend satsangs (spiritual gatherings) with Maharaj, where he could ask questions and clarify his doubts.
After Maharaj's passing in 1981, Balsekar continued to study and deepen his understanding of Advaita. He also began to give talks and share his insights with others. His talks were well-received, and many people started to seek his guidance and teachings.
In 1989, Balsekar retired from his corporate career and fully dedicated himself to spreading the message of Advaita. He started conducting satsangs and giving talks regularly, both in India and abroad. He also began writing books and had a prolific career as an author, with over 20 books published on Advaita and related topics.
Balsekar's teachings were simple and practical, making them accessible to people from all walks of life. He emphasized the importance of living in the present moment and accepting life as it is, without resistance or attachment. He also stressed the idea that everything happens according to the divine will, and there is no separate individual doer.
Balsekar's teachings gained widespread recognition, and he became known as a leading Advaita teacher. He had a unique way of presenting complex concepts in a simple and understandable manner, making him a popular speaker and writer.
Until his passing in 2009, Balsekar continued to share the message of Advaita and guide seekers on their spiritual journey. He left behind a legacy of wisdom and insight that continues to inspire and guide people towards self-realization.
In conclusion, Ramesh Balsekar became an Advaita teacher through his own spiritual quest and devotion to his teacher, Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj. His deep understanding and ability to communicate the teachings in a practical and relatable way made him a beloved teacher and a significant figure in the world of Advaita.