Ramakrishna Mission President Swami Smaranananda Dies At 94, PM Modi Expresses Grief

Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission died on Tuesday at 8:14 pm, the mission said in a statement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid condolences on the demise of the 94-year-old monk and said he left an “indelible mark” on countless hearts and minds. “His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations,” the prime minister said.

“With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Smarananandaji, President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, on Tuesday, 26 March 2024 at 8:14 pm at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital, Kolkata. He was 94,” Ramakrishna Mission said in a statement on microblogging site X.

PM Modi recalled his interaction with Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, who had “dedicated his life to spirituality and service” during his visit to the Belur math in 2020.

“I had a very close relation with him over the years. I recall my visit to Belur Math in 2020 when I had interacted with him. A few weeks ago in Kolkata, I had also visited the hospital and enquired about his health. My thoughts are with the countless devotees of the Belur Math. Om Shanti,” the prime minister said in an X post.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj saying his “absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill”.

“Srimat Swami Smaranananda Ji Maharaj of Ramakrishna Math was a spiritual giant whose scholarly knowledge ignited minds with enlightenment and whose compassionate presence could fill hearts with divine bliss. Maharaj Ji’s absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill but the legacy of his wisdom will remain our guiding light. My condolences are with his countless followers,” the Home Minister said in an X post.