Spiritual guru and Padma Shri recipient Baba Sivanand passed away in Varanasi on Saturday night following health complications, his disciples confirmed. The centenarian—who they claim was 128 years old—was undergoing treatment at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Hospital since 30 April.
A revered yoga practitioner and ascetic, Baba Sivanand had been residing in Kabirnagar Colony, where his body has been placed for the public to pay their last respects.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the yoga saint, describing his death as “an irreparable loss.” In a post on social media platform X, Modi said, “It is extremely saddening to hear about the demise of Shivanand Baba Ji, a yoga practitioner and resident of Kashi. His life dedicated to yoga and sadhana will continue to inspire every generation of the country. He was also awarded Padma Shri for serving the society through yoga.
“Shivanand Baba's departure to Shivaloka is an irreparable loss for all of us Kashi residents and millions of people who draw inspiration from him. I pay my tribute to him in this hour of grief,” he added.
Born on 8 August 1896 in the Sylhet district of present-day Bangladesh, Baba Sivanand was orphaned at the age of six after losing his parents to starvation, his followers said. Thereafter, he was taken in by a spiritual mentor, Omkarnand, who nurtured him and guided him into a life of discipline and devotion.
Baba Sivanand is widely recognised for his contributions to yoga and spiritual wellness. In 2022, he was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in recognition of his service to society through the promotion of yoga.
Disciples attribute his reputed longevity to his austere lifestyle. He would wake up at 3 a.m., practise yoga, and perform all his daily chores independently. Known for eating only boiled food and resting on a simple mat, Baba Sivanand espoused the virtues of minimalism and restraint.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also offered condolences. In a message on X, he stated, “It is very sad that famous yoga guru of Kashi 'Padma Shri' Swami Shivanand ji, who made an unparalleled contribution in the field of 'Yoga', passed away. Humble tribute to him!”
He added, “Your sadhana and yoga-filled life is a great inspiration for the whole society. You dedicated your whole life to the expansion of yoga. I pray to Baba Vishwanath to grant salvation to the departed soul and give strength to his bereaved followers to bear this immense grief. Om Shanti!”
Follow us
