Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj (1897–1981) was an Indian spiritual teacher and philosopher from Mumbai, best known for his teachings on Advaita Vedanta and his seminal work, "I Am That." His approach emphasized the importance of self-inquiry and the understanding that the sense of "I am" is central to realizing one's true nature. Maharaj's dialogues, captured in his books, continue to influence spiritual seekers worldwide, blending practical wisdom with profound insights into non-dualism.
Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj via GPT
I was born Maruti Shivrampant Kambli on April 17, 1897, in a small village outside of Bombay, now known as Mumbai, in India. My early life was humble; my family was poor, and I received only a basic education. My father, a poor farmer, instilled in me a strong sense of duty and devotion.
As a young man, I moved into the city, seeking a better life. I started a small business, selling bidis, Indian cigarettes, which provided me with a modest but steady income. I married and had children, living the life of a typical householder. Yet, there was always a yearning, a sense that there was something more to life than the daily grind.
The first significant turning point in my life came when I met my guru, Sri Siddharameshwar Maharaj. His teachings resonated deeply with me, awakening a profound sense of urgency and devotion. He taught me the practice of self-inquiry, urging me to focus on the sense of "I am" and to seek the true nature of this fundamental awareness. Under his guidance, I experienced a profound transformation. My sense of individuality dissolved, revealing the boundless, timeless presence that is the true self. After the passing of my guru, I dedicated my life to sharing the teachings that had liberated me. People from all over the world came to my small apartment in Mumbai, seeking wisdom and clarity. I spoke simply and directly, pointing out that the true self is beyond all concepts, beyond all thoughts, and that the sense of "I am" is the gateway to this realization. My teachings were collected in the book "I Am That," which has become a spiritual
classic, guiding countless seekers to the truth. My message is straightforward: you are not the body, nor the mind. You are the pure, witnessing consciousness, the timeless presence that is aware of all that appears and disappears. This realization is not something to be attained but something to be recognized, here and now, in the midst of ordinary life.
My historical significance lies in the clarity and simplicity of my teachings. I did not introduce complex doctrines or rituals but pointed directly to the essence of Advaita Vedanta, the non-dual reality. My life was a testament to the fact that profound spiritual realization is possible for anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. I left my body on September 8, 1981, but my teachings continue to inspire and guide those who seek the truth. Remember, you are not what you take yourself to be. You are the unchanging, ever-present awareness in which all experiences arise and pass away. Find out who you truly are, and you will discover the ultimate freedom and peace.