The Mission
About Prajnana Mission
Prajnana Mission is a spiritual organization founded by Gurudev Paramahamsa Hariharanandaji for the propagation of the ancient science of Kriya Yoga. Rooted in the timeless yogic tradition of India, the Mission serves seekers across the world through meditation programs, spiritual teachings, humanitarian activities, and authentic Kriya Yoga initiation.
The Path
A direct path to inner transformation
India's spiritual heritage has gifted humanity profound systems of philosophy and yoga through sages such as Patanjali, Vyasa, Shankaracharya, and many realized masters. Among these traditions, Kriya Yoga holds a unique place as a direct and practical path to inner transformation.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali describe Kriya Yoga as:
"Tapah, Swadhyaya, Ishwara Pranidhana — Kriya Yoga."Self-discipline, self-study, and surrender to the Divine
Kriya Yoga is a scientific method of meditation that harmonizes body, mind, breath, and soul. The Sanskrit word Kriya means "action," and Yoga means "union." Thus, Kriya Yoga is the path of union with the Infinite through conscious spiritual practice. This sacred technique, practiced by saints and sages since ancient times, was revived in modern times by Mahavatar Babaji in 1861 and passed to Lahiri Mahasaya for the spiritual upliftment of humanity.
The Lineage
The lineage of Kriya Yoga masters
Mahavatar Babaji
The timeless Himalayan master who revived Kriya Yoga for the modern age. Babaji reintroduced this sacred science to accelerate humanity's spiritual evolution.
Lahiri Mahasaya(1828–1895)
Initiated by Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya brought Kriya Yoga into everyday life, teaching both householders and monks that spiritual realization is possible while fulfilling worldly responsibilities.
Swami Shriyukteshwarji(1855–1936)
A great philosopher and realized master, he established Karar Ashram in Puri and authored The Holy Science, harmonizing Eastern and Western spiritual wisdom.
Sanyal Mahasaya(1877–1962)
A realized householder who achieved the supreme state of samadhi between the age of 18 and 19. His worldly life revolved around being a schoolteacher.
Paramahamsa Yoganandaji(1893–1952)
Author of the world-renowned Autobiography of a Yogi, he introduced Kriya Yoga to the West and inspired millions toward meditation and God-realization.
Swami Satyanandaji(1896–1971)
A childhood friend of Paramahamsa Yoganandaji, he met his guru Swami Shriyukteshwarji through Yoganandaji.
Paramahamsa Hariharanandaji(1907–2002)
A direct disciple in this lineage, Gurudev dedicated his life to spreading Kriya Yoga globally. Revered for his profound spiritual realization and compassionate service, he established meditation centers across India, Europe, the Americas, Australia, and New Zealand.
Paramahamsa Prajnananandaji
The present spiritual master of the lineage, Shri Guruji Paramahamsa Prajnananandaji continues to guide seekers worldwide with wisdom, simplicity, and deep spiritual insight.
The Benefits
Benefits of practicing Kriya Yoga
Kriya Yoga is a practical and universal meditation technique that benefits every aspect of life.
Physical
- — Improves health, vitality, and energy
- — Reduces stress and fatigue
- — Enhances overall well-being
Mental
- — Increases concentration and clarity
- — Brings peace, balance, and emotional stability
- — Helps manage daily responsibilities more effectively
Spiritual
- — Deepens meditation and inner awareness
- — Purifies consciousness
- — Accelerates spiritual growth and Self-realization
"An instrument through which human evolution can be quickened."Swami Shriyukteshwarji
Open to All
Who can learn Kriya Yoga?
Kriya Yoga is universal and non-sectarian. It does not require changing one's religion, beliefs, or lifestyle. People from all backgrounds, cultures, and professions can practice it.
Anyone seeking inner peace, clarity, balance, and spiritual growth can learn Kriya Yoga.
The Initiation
How is Kriya Yoga learned?
Kriya Yoga is traditionally imparted through direct initiation from the living Guru or authorized Acharyas of the lineage. This sacred transmission includes spiritual techniques for purification and awakening of inner consciousness.
Introductory programs and initiation seminars are conducted regularly worldwide.
Worldwide
Prajnana Mission worldwide
Prajnana Mission functions globally through:
- Prajnana Mission — Asia
- Kriya Yoga Institute — Americas, Australia & New Zealand
- Kriya Yoga Center — Europe & Africa
There are nearly 250 meditation centers and ashrams worldwide dedicated to meditation, spiritual education, and humanitarian service.
In Service
Service to humanity
Inspired by Gurudev Paramahamsa Hariharanandaji's principle:
"Feed the hungry, teach the students, nurse the sick, and give solace to the distressed."
Prajnana Mission actively supports:
- Spiritual education and meditation programs
- Publication of spiritual literature
- Educational support for children
- Charitable healthcare initiatives
- Disaster relief and humanitarian service
Kriya Yoga is not merely a philosophy — it is a way of living with awareness, compassion, peace, and divine realization.
International Spiritual Headquarters
Hariharananda Gurukulam, Balighai, Puri
P.O. Chhaitana, District Puri, Odisha — 752002, India
Mob: +91 9437343852
gurukulam@prajnanamission.org