Introduction

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886) is one of the most revered saints of India. Known for his deep devotion to the Divine Mother (Kali), his life is a testament to Kundalini awakening through Tantra practices, meditation, and unwavering spiritual surrender. His experiences show that divine energy can awaken naturally, safely, and transform one’s consciousness.

Early Life

Born in Kamakrishnapur near Kolkata, Ramakrishna exhibited a spiritual inclination from a very young age. He was drawn to meditation, devotion, and mystical experiences even as a child. Later, he became a priest at Dakshineswar Kali Temple, where he spent long hours in prayer and meditation, developing a profound connection with Goddess Kali. His devotion was marked by simplicity, sincerity, and an intense longing for divine union.

Kundalini Awakening Experiences

Ramakrishna’s spiritual journey included direct experiences of Kundalini energy:

• Tantra guidance: He practiced under Bhairavi Brahmani, a tantric yogini, who helped him understand the awakening of spiritual energy.
• Spontaneous Kundalini rising: Through meditation and devotion, he experienced the rise of Kundalini energy, which activated his subtle energy centers.
• Visions and divine ecstasy: He had visions of Goddess Kali, other deities, and entered deep states of samadhi, where he was immersed in divine bliss.
• Integration of paths: He demonstrated that Kundalini awakening is not limited to rigorous practices but can occur through love, devotion, meditation, and surrender.

Teachings and Philosophy

Ramakrishna emphasized:

• Devotion over ritual: True spiritual experience comes from love and surrender to the Divine Mother.
• Harmony of religions: He practiced different paths – Tantra, Vedanta, Bhakti, and Islam – showing that all lead to the same divine truth.
• Inner awakening: Spiritual energy (Kundalini) rises naturally when the mind is purified, concentrated, and surrendered to divine will.
• Practical spirituality: He encouraged seekers to live a simple, devoted life while nurturing inner awakening through meditation and ethical conduct.

Legacy

Ramakrishna’s teachings were carried forward by Swami Vivekananda, who introduced these spiritual insights worldwide. Today, his life continues to inspire devotees and spiritual aspirants seeking Kundalini awakening, inner bliss, and divine connection. His approach shows that awakening can be loving, safe, and spiritually enriching, not just a mystical experience reserved for the few.

FAQs

1.Who guided Ramakrishna in Tantra?

He was guided by Bhairavi Brahmani, a tantric yogini, who taught him meditation techniques and helped him safely awaken Kundalini energy.

2.Did he practice Kundalini yoga?

Yes, through meditation, devotion, and tantric guidance, he experienced spontaneous Kundalini awakening and deep states of spiritual ecstasy.

3.What visions did Ramakrishna experience?

He had visions of Goddess Kali, other deities, and divine forms, often entering samadhi or states of complete spiritual absorption.

4.How is his teaching relevant today?

His life shows that Kundalini awakening and spiritual growth can be achieved through love, devotion, and meditation, offering a safe and practical path for modern seekers.

5.Who continued Ramakrishna’s teachings?

His disciple Swami Vivekananda spread his teachings worldwide, emphasizing meditation, spiritual awakening, and the unity of all religions.

6.Can anyone awaken Kundalini safely?

Yes, Ramakrishna demonstrated that with devotion, meditation, ethical living, and guidance, Kundalini awakening is natural, safe, and spiritually transformative.

7.What is the role of the Divine Mother in his teachings?

The Divine Mother (Kali) is central in Ramakrishna’s practice, representing love, energy, and spiritual awakening, guiding seekers through devotion and meditation.

At Mimamsa Yoga School, we teach safe Kundalini awakening practices, following the same devotion and guidance that inspired Ramakrishna.