Acharya Paramatman Shanti Prakash
Acharya Shunya's great-grandfather, Acharya Shanti Prakash, is the fountainhead of the Sarayu Sampradaya. Affectionately, Acharya Shunya and her sadasyas call him Badey Baba, which simply means "Elder Baba."
A Great Seer Emerges
Shanti Prakash was revered as a Maharishi (Great Seer) and honored with the title Paramatman (Godly Soul), was recognized by the people of Ayodhya, a historic city in northern India, for his life of deep devotion, compassion, spiritual inquiry, strong righteous principles, and unwavering commitment to selfless service. His profound influence led the community to rename the neighborhood where he lived to Rishi Tola—meaning "the abode of Rishis or Vedic seers." To this day, it remains a tribute to Badey Baba’s legacy as a true Vedic seer and yogi.
A Symbol of Wisdom and Non-Dual Teachings
Shanti Prakash's scholarly brilliance, divine awareness, and dedication to service shone brightly in a world often clouded by ignorance and fear. His teachings, rooted in the timeless wisdom of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita, guided seekers to move beyond the limitations of societal conditioning and discover their own boundless, pure, and limitless inner nature. Through his wisdom and loving guidance, Shanti Prakash inspired a way of living that was both mindful and powerful—encouraging others to live fully, with compassion and integrity, free from sorrow and fear, and in devoted service to the Higher Truth.
Historical Note: A Period of Instability and Renewal
Prior to Shanti Prakash's birth , the lineage faced significant challenges beginning in the 1700s with the onset of colonial rule, which led to the loss of the family’s home, royal patronage to the Vedic work, and general instability. During this period, Subban Lal, the grandfather of Shanti Prakash, had to move temporarily from Ayodhya to Delhi, seeking employment with the last Mughal rulers to support the family. Their time in Delhi was cut short by the upheaval of the 1857 Soldier's Revolt, forcing the family to abandon their new home and the cherished Goddess (Devi) temple they had built in Delhi, and return to Ayodhya, amidst bloodshed and chaos. Despite these hardships, the family remained resilient.
During a period of great instability, Sadhu Summan Lal (Shanti Prakash’s father), made a crucial decision to revive their family’s spiritual heritage. Alongside his work, which provided for their daily needs, he took bold steps to restore what the family had always excelled at—by reopening the family based Vedic Gurukulam (a traditional school for Vedic teachings). Starting humbly with just six young boys, he reignited the sacred tradition of teaching and preserving the Vedas. A new temple dedicated to the Goddess was also established within their new home in Ayodhya, reinforcing their commitment to spiritual renewal. This temple, a testament to their enduring devotion, still stands today, continuing to inspire those who visit.
These efforts brought a renewed sense of purpose and a spiritual awakening to the family. As the sacred city of Ayodhya, a revered place for Hindus, once again echoed with the sacred chants of the Vedas, the family felt their spiritual roots being restored and strengthened. The atmosphere, once clouded by struggle, began to lift, filling with hope and spiritual revival. This renewed energy was further bolstered by the joyful news that Shanti Prakash’s mother was expecting his birth, signaling a new era of spiritual continuity and strength for the family lineage.
A Serene and Gifted Child
Shanti Prakash was born into this atmosphere of spiritual renewal and hope, and from a young age, he exhibited a serene and contemplative nature. Even as a child, he seemed to possess an innate understanding of spiritual wisdom, often reciting Vedic verses with a fluency and depth that astonished his elders. It was as if he had carried this knowledge from a past life, recalling the sacred texts with an ease that suggested a soul already familiar with the path. His calm demeanor, combined with an unshakable sense of purpose, marked him as a child of great spiritual potential. Those around him often remarked that Shanti Prakash was not like other children; he was a soul wise beyond his years, whose presence brought a sense of peace and clarity to all who met him.
Shanti Prakash was educated at the modest Gurukulam established by his father in Ayodhya and under his direct guidance he remembered what he knew from previous lifetimes. His father, Summan Lal, was a respected though deeply humble scholar who instilled in him a deep love for Sanskrit and the Vedic scriptures and pride in his lineage. This education provided Shanti Prakash with a strong foundation in both spiritual and academic knowledge, nurturing his growth as a spiritual leader.
Shanti Prakash: The Making of a Spiritual Luminary
Acharya Shanti Prakash, dedicated many years to the in-depth study of Vedic source texts under the meticulous guidance of his father, Sadhu Samman Lal. This rigorous study of the scriptures, approached one by one with great attention and devotion alongside deep yogic sadhana, formed the foundation of Badey Baba's exemplary spiritual understanding and practice. His father’s guidance was instrumental in nurturing his spiritual insights and dedication to Vedic wisdom.
Yet, Acharya Shanti Prakash's spiritual journey was also shaped by the influence of several other revered figures, for which the Saray Sampradaya remains deeply grateful. Among these figures was Swami Rama Tirtha, a well-known spiritual leader whose teachings, advice, and presence significantly impacted Acharya Shanti Prakash. Although Swami Rama Tirtha’s life was short (he transitioned at the age of 33), his wisdom left a lasting imprint on many, including Shanti Prakash, contributing to the depth and breadth of his spiritual insights.
In addition to Swami Rama Tirtha, two other influential sages, though relatively obscure even within India, were also pivotal in shaping Acharya Shanti Prakash’s spiritual path. Their names, spoken with awe and reverence in spiritual circles, are less known to the broader public, yet their impact was profound. These sages, deeply respected for their spiritual wisdom, would occasionally emerge from their secluded lives to meet the young teenage Shanti Prakash. They treated him not merely as a disciple or a young seeker but as a colleague and spiritual equal, recognizing his potential and the depth of his spiritual understanding. These rare encounters, marked by mutual respect and a shared commitment to the pursuit of higher knowledge, were significant in affirming Shanti Prakash’s spiritual journey and expanding his horizons.
One such teacher was Swami Bhumananda Saraswati, a Vedanta scholar known for his teachings on the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. His beautiful discourses left a lasting impression on Shanti Prakash, igniting a passion for the spiritual path and developing his gift for oratory that would later inspire many toward the pursuit of moksha.
Swami Bhumananda Saraswati too recognized a unique spark in the young Shanti Prakash—a deep spiritual curiosity and a natural inclination toward wisdom. This recognition forged a bond between them, and whenever Swami Bhumananda Saraswati visited the holy city of Ayodhya, he would make time to visit Shanti Prakash and stay a few days teaching at his father's gurukulam, nurturing Shanti Prakash's spiritual growth.
Another influential figure in Shanti Prakash's early development was Swami Ramananda Saraswati, a respected teacher known for his dedication to Vedantic teachings. This sage was known to disappear in the woods for months, But when he emerged from obscruity he would often make his way to Shanti Prakash's home for a meal and a talk with Shanti Prakash. His interactions with Shanti Prakash further fueled the young seeker’s passion for spiritual knowledge, guiding him toward a deeper exploration of Advaita Vedanta.
Along with these valuable encounters, Shanti Prakash continued to immerse in the Vedic tradition under his father. He also felt a profound spirit connection to the root figures of the Sampradaya, divine presence of Sage Vashishtha and Maa Arundhati, whom he regarded as his Maha Gurus. The lineage profoundly shaped his understanding and practice, infusing his life with the wisdom and grace of these revered figures.
Inspired by the Indian freedom movement, Shanti Prakash was also influenced by ideals of social justice and spiritual wisdom. Lala Lajpat Rai, a contemporary who was both a prominent freedom fighter and spiritually inclined, had a significant impact on his vision of a life dedicated to both worldly engagement and spiritual pursuit. This exposure shaped his satsanghas, where he addressed liberation on multiple levels—personal, metaphysical, and social—encouraging listeners to question colonial oppression, bondage, and societal shame.
Swami Rama Tirtha, a contemporary of Shanti Prakash, became both a friend and a mentor. The two often attended each other’s satsangs, exchanging insights . After Swami Rama Tirtha's early passing, Shanti Prakash was requested to serve as the Adhyaksha (President) of the Ram Tirtha Pratishthan (an organization dedicated to promote Swami RAma Tirtha's teachings).
Though Shanti Prakash had a near death experience leading to a full and final awakening at a relatively young age (at age 22), understanding the significance of preserving and formalizing his spiritual heritage before he transitions, Shanti Prakash took a pioneering step by renaming the lineage when he turned 60, to give it a formal roopa (form) and changed its name. He redefined the lineage as the Sarayu Veda Sampradaya, or simply the Sarayu Sampradaya, in honor of his spiritual experience in the sacred Sarayu River, where he believed he received direct Diksha from the Divine Mother herself. This act of renaming was not merely a change in name but a deepening of the lineage’s connection to its spiritual roots, aligning it with the divine feminine guidance and sacred energy of the Sarayu River.
The lasting Legacy of Shanti Prakash
Through these transformative encounters, the guidance of his father, and the connection to his Maha Gurus, Shanti Prakash was blessed with various divine resources to aid his spiritual growth. He inherited his father's deep and accurate knowledge, his grandfather's devotion, and the sacred foundation of a goddess temple built within their home. Standing on the solid ground of his ancient lineage, he was further motivated by teachers sent his way, inspired by contemporaries who supported his journey, and ignited by leaders who embodied the spirit of freedom and justice. The sacred river goddess, Sarayu, ultimately awakened him to his true purpose. With these blessings and divine support, Shanti Prakash grew into a spiritual luminary, an awakened being, a respected teacher, an adored and revered citizen on the planet, who balanced worldly duties along with spiritual enlightenment... a true yogi.
Badey Baba's rich legacy of wisdom and spiritual practice has been passed down through the generations, his son, Baba Ayodhya Nath and continues to sparkle in the teachings of Acharya Shunya today. Drawing from the deep spiritual foundation laid by her great-grandfather, Acharya Shunya weaves these timeless principles into her own teachings, making them relevant for modern seekers around the globe.
Through her, the same Vedic teachings, the emphasis on integrating spiritual wisdom with everyday life, and the pursuit of self-realization (Atmic realization) continue to inspire and guide students worldwide. Whether delving into Vedic texts, exploring the pathways of yoga, or engaging in spiritual practices, students under Acharya Shunya's guidance experience the timeless truths cherished by Acharya Shanti Prakash and his ancestors. This vibrant continuation ensures that the teachings of her great-grandfather remain alive and relevant, enriching the spiritual journeys of seekers in today’s world. Rare photographs and stories of these influential figures capture the spirit of their connection, preserving the essence of their teachings that still resonate within the lineage today.
Jai Guru Dev, Jai Shanti Prakash.
Established the Universal Dharma Sabha and Sangha
In 1922, at the age of 52, Shanti Prakash founded the Sadharan Dharma Sabha and Sangha in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, to extend the light of the Vedas beyond his immediate circle of disciples. This initiative aimed to broaden the scope of spiritual practice, moving beyond study and meditation to embrace a deeper commitment to social service and compassionate action. The Sabha was devoted to a range of activities—spiritual, devotional, educational, charitable, and community health-focused. It provided medical relief, social support, education, and access to medicinal herbs, along with meditation tools, and encouraged spiritual activism for achieving both inner peace and societal freedom. The name ‘Sadharan Dharma’ translates to “Universal Dharma,” reflecting the inclusive and expansive vision of this endeavor to serve humanity.
A gathering of the Dharma Sabha and Sangha
With Householder Seekers with Shanti Prakash in Center.
At the inauguration of the Sadharan Dharma Sabha and Sangha, Acharya Shanti Prakash articulated a visionary mission: “Sarva Arogyam Sarva Mukti,” meaning "Health and Spiritual Liberation for All." This mission extended beyond the pursuit of personal enlightenment to embrace the well-being of the entire community and, by extension, the world. It became a source of inspiration for the members of the Sangha and the organizations that followed, including Vedika Global in the USA. These groups continue to serve humanity with the transformative power of Vedic education, focusing on fostering true health and freeing people from the suffering caused by spiritual ignorance. In doing so, they carry forward the compassionate spirit of Shanti Prakash’s teachings, embodying his vision of a spiritually awakened and healthy society.
The Satsang Tradition
A Legacy of Spiritual Discourse
Bade Baba's Satsangs (spiritual discourses) were renowned for drawing hundreds of attendees each night, fostering a vibrant community of seekers. His gatherings were honored by the presence of esteemed spiritual personalities of the time, such as Swami Rama Tirtha, Neem Karoli Baba, Maharishi Kartikey Maharaj, Datun Wale Baba, Netraheen Baba, and Narayan Swami Ji.
Shanti Prakash sitting with His Sadhu and Yogi Colleagues after a Satsang
Front row, extreme Right.
Today, Acharya Shunya continues this rich tradition, upholding the Satsang's original purpose of offering more than just spiritual lectures. Her Satsangs are profound transmissions aimed at transforming consciousness through the study of traditional Vedic scriptures and the pursuit of Truth found in the Vedas and Vedic Darshans like Yoga and Vedanta. Like her great-grandfather’s gatherings, Acharya Shunya’s Satsangs remain open to all sincere seekers who are drawn to Vedic self-knowledge, regardless of their background.
Through this continued dedication, Acharya Shunya honors and expands the Satsang tradition, fostering a space where seekers can engage deeply with the timeless wisdom of the Vedas and experience genuine spiritual awakening.
The Giver of the Adi Gita
A Precursor to the Bhagavad Gita
An esteemed Vedic scholar, Bade Baba was the first known compiler of the 84-verse Adi Gita, an ancient scroll discovered through archaeological investigation. Many Vedic scholars believe the Adi Gita of 84 net verses to be the original text that predates the 700-verse Bhagavad Gita known today. It is thought that the Adi Gita's key shlokas were the words spoken by Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, later expanded by scholars over time. In this sacred text, Bade Baba beckons all sincere seekers:
“Be a true seeker after Truth, and the light will then flash upon you, not only from books and sages of this world but also from your own inner intuition (knowingness). Not only this, the sages of the next world (loka) with astral bodies will also come forward to help you if you are truly eager to uplift yourself—to find and reclaim your inner Self.”
(Adi Gita, page 86).
Continuing the Legacy
Today, the teachings of Sadhu Shanti Prakash continue to inspire and guide new generations of seekers through the efforts of his descendants, like your teacher, Acharya Shunya.
One of the last photographs taken of Bade Baba, Acharya Shanti Prakash, before his transition in 1958. He is surrounded by two of his most dedicated followers and Karmayogi sadhus from the lineage, who were deeply committed to his mission and spiritual teachings.
गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुः गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः।
गुरुः साक्षात् परं ब्रह्म तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः॥
The Guru is Brahma (the Creator), the Guru is Vishnu (the Preserver),
The Guru is Maheshvara (Shiva, the Destroyer).
The Guru is verily the Supreme Brahman (the Absolute Reality);
To that revered Guru, I offer my salutations.
अखण्डमण्डलाकारं व्याप्तं येन चराचरम्।
तत्पदं दर्शितं येन तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः॥
Salutations to the Guru, who revealed to me the truth of the Supreme Being,
Who pervades the entire cosmos in the form of the indivisible and all-encompassing presence,
The one who is both the moving and the unmoving.
ध्यानमूलं गुरोर्मूर्तिः पूजामूलं गुरोः पदम्।
मन्त्रमूलं गुरोर्वाक्यं मोक्षमूलं गुरोः कृपा॥
The root of meditation is the form of the Guru,
The root of worship is the feet of the Guru.
The root of mantra is the word of the Guru,
The root of liberation is the grace of the Guru.