Autobiography of a Yogi (Annotated)

Autobiography of a Yogi is both a spiritual memoir and a modern scripture of cross-cultural encounter. Written in lucid, devotional prose, it recounts Yogananda's childhood in India, his search for a guru, his discipleship under Sri Yukteswar, and his mission to bring Kriya Yoga to the West. Blending autobiography, hagiography, philosophical exposition, and miraculous anecdote, the book stands in the literary context of Indian spiritual testimony and twentieth-century global religious modernity. Paramahansa Yogananda (1893¿1952), born Mukunda Lal Ghosh, was a Bengali monk of the ancient Swami order and a central figure in introducing yogic spirituality to America. His education, monastic training, and long residence in the United States shaped his conviction that the deepest truths of Hinduism and Christianity were inwardly harmonious. The book reflects his life's work: to present yoga not as exotic ritual, but as a disciplined science of God-realization. This work is recommended to readers interested in mysticism, comparative religion, Indian philosophy, and the literature of spiritual self-discovery. Its enduring value lies not only in its remarkable narrative, but in its invitation to regard human consciousness as a field of disciplined exploration, moral refinement, and transcendent possibility. This enriched edition has been carefully crafted to add value to your reading experience. A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. Hand¿picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Paramahansa Yogananda(1893 ¿1952) was an Indian guru, monk, and yogi who introduced the Hindu meditation tradition and the teachings of Kriya Yoga to the Western world. He was a disciple of the Bengali yoga guru Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri. The teacher gave him a commission to spread the teachings of yoga to the West and help people find a balance between Western material growth and Indian spirituality. In twenty years of his activity in the United States, he became the first yogi to be hosted in the White House by President Coolidge, founded several organizations and monastic orders, bought the property for his schools throughout the country, and established over 100 centers of his organization Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) in the United States and India.