Anagarika Govinda was born on May 17, 1898 in Waldheim, Germany. He was born into a middle-class family and given the name Ernst Lothar Hoffmann. His father was a respected judge and his mother was a homemaker. Govinda's childhood was marked by a deep interest in spirituality and a longing for inner peace and understanding.

At the age of 20, Govinda left Germany and traveled to India, where he was deeply influenced by the teachings of Buddhism. He spent several years studying and practicing Buddhism, eventually becoming ordained as a monk in the Theravada tradition. He adopted the name Anagarika, which means "homeless one," and Govinda, which means "master of cows."

Govinda's spiritual journey led him to various parts of Asia, including Sri Lanka, Burma, and Tibet. He studied under renowned Buddhist masters and delved deeper into the philosophy and practice of Buddhism. He also became proficient in several languages, including Pali, Sanskrit, and Tibetan.

In 1930, Govinda met and married his wife, Li Gotami, who shared his passion for Buddhism. Together, they traveled and studied extensively, eventually settling in India. Govinda became a respected scholar and teacher, and his writings on Buddhism and Eastern philosophy gained international recognition.

Throughout his life, Govinda continued to explore and practice various forms of Buddhism, including Zen and Vajrayana. He also became interested in the mystical aspects of Buddhism and delved into the study of tantra and esoteric practices.

Anagarika Govinda passed away on January 14, 1985 at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of profound teachings and writings that continue to inspire and guide spiritual seekers around the world. His life and work serve as a reminder of the transformative power of Buddhism and the universal quest for inner peace and understanding.