Swami Smaranananda, the 16th president of Ramakrishna Mission, passed away Tuesday night due to age-related ailments, according to doctors treating him. He was 94.
The revered monk, who was admitted to the Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan in Kolkata on January 29 with a urinary tract infection, later developed respiratory failure and was put on a ventilator on March 3, doctors said.
A statement issued by the organization confirmed his passing, stating, "Srimat Swami Smarananandaji Maharaj, most revered President Maharaj of the Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission attained Mahasamadhi today at 8.14 pm."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee paid tribute to Swami Smaranananda.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, "He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations." He added, "I had a very close relationship 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."
The chief minister hailed the monk's spiritual leadership, saying, "This great monk during his lifetime has given spiritual leadership to the world order of the Ramakrishnaites and remains the source of solace for millions of devotees across the globe."
The Ramakrishna Mission announced that the cremation will take place at its headquarters, Belur Math in Howrah, at 9 pm on Wednesday.
"The gates of Belur Math will remain open all through the night of the 26th and through the 27th till the last rites are completed," the organization said.
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