Remembering an extraordinary mother

Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Shrivastava

Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Shrivastava, fondly known as 'Shri Mataji', dedicated her life to spreading spiritual enlightenment through Sahaja Yoga Meditation. As the world commemorates her birthday on March 21, her profound teachings continue to inspire millions globally.

Sahaja Yoga Meditation, pioneered by Shri Mataji, facilitates Self-Realisation, a process where inner Kundalini energy is awakened, leading individuals into a state of meditation. This practice, founded on the principle of simplicity ('Sahaja' in Hindi), emphasizes the innate connection between humanity and the divine.

Throughout her life, Shri Mataji never sought monetary gain for teaching Sahaja Yoga, emphasizing its innate nature as a divine gift rather than a commodity. This altruistic approach underscores her belief in the universal accessibility of meditation as a pathway to inner peace and balance.

Central to Sahaja Yoga Meditation is its focus on the subtle energy system within individuals, comprising seven energy centers (chakras) and three channels (naadis). By awakening the dormant Kundalini energy, individuals can address physical and mental imbalances, promoting overall health and well-being.

Shri Mataji's journey began in India, where she actively participated in the country's freedom movement alongside Mahatma Gandhi. Her commitment to social change and spiritual awakening led her to establish Sahaja Yoga Meditation in 1970, marking the beginning of a transformative global movement.

Recognized for her humanitarian efforts, Shri Mataji was awarded the UN Peace Prize in 1989 and was twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Her contributions to world peace were acknowledged by various governments and institutions worldwide, including the Italian Government, which honored her as 'Personality of the Year.'

Beyond accolades, Shri Mataji's legacy is evident in the tangible impact of Sahaja Yoga Meditation. The establishment of International SY Research and Health Centers in India stands as a testament to her vision of holistic healing, offering treatment for a myriad of health conditions through meditation.

In addition to health initiatives, Shri Mataji extended her compassion to vulnerable communities, establishing charitable organizations to support destitute women and children. Her philanthropic endeavors reflect her unwavering commitment to uplifting society's most marginalized.

Shri Mataji's teachings continue to resonate globally, with Sahaja Yoga practitioners from over 100 countries benefiting from her wisdom. In the UAE, her legacy lives on through dedicated practitioners who convene weekly for collective meditation sessions and extend outreach to corporates, government organizations, and schools.

Though she passed away in 2011, Shri Mataji's influence endures, inspiring countless individuals to embark on their spiritual journeys and discover the transformative power of meditation. As the world honors her memory, her legacy of love, compassion, and self-realization continues to illuminate the path to inner harmony and enlightenment.