Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa (1836–1886) was a mystic saint and spiritual teacher whose life and teachings have left an indelible mark on Hindu spirituality. He underwent intense spiritual practices under various traditions, including Tantra, Vaishnavism, and Vedanta. He experienced profound states of Samadhi and had direct encounters with the divine, including Mother Kali. Ramakrishna’s teachings emphasized the universality of all religions and the direct experience of God. Ramakrishna’s life continues to inspire millions worldwide, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
Sri Sharada Devi
Sri Sharada Devi (1853–1920), also known as Holy Mother, was the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and a central figure in the Ramakrishna movement. She displayed deep spiritual insight from a young age. After Sri Ramakrishna’s passing, she continued to guide his disciples, offering motherly love and spiritual wisdom. Her simple yet profound teachings emphasized the importance of selflessness, love, and devotion in spiritual life. Sharada Devi became an emblem of divine motherhood, embodying the nurturing and compassionate aspect of the divine. She played a crucial role in the Ramakrishna Mission’s formation and remains revered as a spiritual icon.
Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) was a towering figure in the Indian spiritual renaissance of the late 19th century. Born Narendranath Datta in Calcutta, he demonstrated an inquisitive mind and a profound thirst for spiritual truth from a young age. After meeting Sri Ramakrishna,he became deeply influenced by his teachings and eventually became his foremost disciple. Vivekananda’s historic address at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893 catapulted him onto the global stage, where he eloquently spoke about Hinduism’s universality and its message of tolerance and acceptance. He founded the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, dedicated to the service of humanity, and tirelessly worked towards the upliftment of the poor and marginalized. Vivekananda’s teachings emphasized the inherent divinity within every individual and the importance of selfless service, meditation, and spiritual realization. His legacy continues to inspire millions worldwide, promoting harmony, unity, and the pursuit of truth across cultures and religions.
Swami Purushottamananda
Swami Purushottamananda, a prominent personality in the history of Ramakrishna Movement in Karnataka was known for his profound wisdom, compassionate heart, and deep spirituality. He was a guiding light for thousands of people. He was celebrated for his melodious singing. His soulful voice and devotional songs touched the hearts of his listeners leaving a lasting impact in their hearts. Many educated young men and women were attracted, inspired and driven by his magnificent personality to take up the path of renunciation. His vision was to create sacred spaces all over Karnataka where individuals could explore and experience the invaluable teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, Holy Mother Sri Sharada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda – the Divine Trio.
Mata Brahmamayi, Mata Niranjanamayi and Sister Vatsala were amongst those who were motivated by Swami Purushottamananda. Srimata Sharada Ashrama was started by them in Hosakote under his guidance in the year 2004 with the ideals of the Divine Trio.
Inauguration of prayer hall in 2007
Poojya Swami Gautamanandaji, presently Vice President, Ramakrishna Math and Mission and Poojya Swami Harshanandaji during inauguration of prayer hall in 2007 The Ashrama has been blessed with the holy visits of many Sannyasis of Ramakrishna Math and Sannyasinis of Sharada Math. It received a significant impetus in 2007, when Poojya Swami Gautamanandaji Maharaj, presently the Vice-President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission visited the Ashrama to inaugurate the new building. Swami Harshanandaji and Swami Jagadatmanandaji are some of the many Sadhus whose presence has brought blessings and guidance, setting the foundation for the spiritual journey of the institution.um.
Mata Brahmamayi
Mata Brahmamayi is the President of Srimata Sharada Ashrama. Inspired and guided by Swami Purushottamanandaji, she was blessed with Mantra Diksha by Poojya Swami Ranganathanandaji, the 13th President of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. She was initiated into sannyasa by Pravrajika Vedamata Puri at Varanasi. She has been diligently and effectively leading the activities of the Ashrama since 19 years inspiring the students, teachers and devotees of Hosakote.