Swami Smaranananda, head of the Ramakrishna Mission, passed away on Tuesday night due to age-related illness, doctors announced.
Swami Smaranananda, 94 years old, was the 16th president of Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda.
„The Most Respected Maharaj President of Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, Srimat Swami Smaranandaji Maharaj, attained Mahasamadhi today at 8:14 pm,“ a statement issued by the organization said. .
The monk was admitted to Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan in Kolkata on January 29 with a pre-existing urinary tract infection. He then developed respiratory failure and was placed on a ventilator on March 3, doctors said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee paid rich tributes to Swami Smaranananda.
„He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations.“ PM Modi said in a post on X. „I have had a very close relationship with him over the years. I remember visiting Belur Math in 2020 and interacting with him. A few weeks ago in Kolkata, I also visited the hospital. I visited and inquired about his health,” he said. Added.
The Prime Minister said the monk would continue to be a source of comfort to millions of believers around the world.
„During his lifetime, this great monk provided spiritual leadership to the Ramakrishnaite world order and continues to be a source of comfort to millions of devotees around the world,“ she said.
The Ramakrishna Mission announced that the cremation will take place at 9 pm on Wednesday at its headquarters Belur Math in Howrah.
„The gates of Belur Math will remain open at midnight on the 26th and till the 27th until the last rites are completed,“ he said.