Sa vidya ya vimuktaye (सा विद्या या विमुक्तये)

Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, commonly known by his spiritual name Shrii Shrii Anandamurtijii, founded Ananda Marga in 1955 in Jamalpur, India. Born on May 21, 1921, in Bihar, India, Sarkar exhibited profound intellectual and spiritual capacities from a young age. He created Ananda Marga, meaning “The Path of Bliss,” to promote individual and social upliftment through spiritual practice and service. Sarkar’s teachings are encapsulated in a system called PROUT, which stands for Progressive Utilization Theory, advocating for economic democracy and social justice.

Ananda Marga combines various spiritual disciplines, including yoga, meditation, and a moral lifestyle, aiming to achieve both personal and collective enlightenment. Sarkar introduced the concept of Neo-Humanism, extending humanism to include love and respect for all living beings and the environment. His vision was to transcend social, racial, and religious boundaries, promoting universal brotherhood.

Shrii Shrii Anandamurtijii was a prolific writer, producing over 250 books on philosophy, spirituality, socio-economics, and linguistics. His teachings emphasize the importance of a balanced life, incorporating physical, mental, and spiritual development. He created several social service programs, including education, healthcare, and disaster relief initiatives, to address the needs of the underprivileged.

Despite facing political repression and imprisonment during the Indian Emergency period in the 1970s, Sarkar continued to inspire his followers with his resilience and commitment. His arrest and subsequent imprisonment were viewed as politically motivated due to his criticism of government policies. After his release in 1978, he continued his work with renewed vigor, spreading his teachings globally.

Ananda Marga now operates in over 135 countries, with numerous educational, medical, and social service projects worldwide. Sarkar’s influence extends to various fields, including arts and music, where he introduced Prabhat Samgiita, a collection of over 5,000 spiritual songs. He emphasized the importance of integrating spiritual practice with social activism, coining the term “self-realization and service to all.”

Shrii Shrii Anandamurti’s life was dedicated to the betterment of humanity, and his legacy continues through the work of Ananda Marga. His teachings remain relevant, addressing contemporary global challenges such as economic inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice. Followers of Ananda Marga strive to embody his principles, working towards a more equitable and compassionate world.

Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar left his physical body on October 21, 1990, but his vision and teachings continue to inspire millions. His contributions to spiritual thought and social theory remain significant, influencing scholars and activists alike. Ananda Marga’s comprehensive approach to human development reflects Sarkar’s holistic vision of a society where spiritual and material progress go hand in hand.

Shrii Shrii Anandamurtijii’s legacy is a testament to his profound impact on spiritual and social thought. His life and teachings offer a roadmap for achieving personal enlightenment and social transformation. Today, Ananda Marga continues to grow, fostering a global community dedicated to his ideals of love, service, and spiritual awakening.