Maharaj Shri: An Introduction
If we were to search for a meaningful synonym for the grace of the Lord and the divine voice, it would be Param Pujya Maharaj Shri Ram Kinkar Ji Upadhyay - a wise sage, a seer of devotional principles, and a supreme saint.
Through his divine, calm, and profound voice filled with sweetness, he has been quenching the thirst of devotees seeking the nectar of devotion, providing the divine essence of various Puranas, Nigamas, Agamas, six philosophies, and Vedas to common people and intellectuals alike.
Through his discourses, writings, and disciple tradition, he has been freely distributing the nectar of Ram Katha (the story of Lord Ram), which is irrigating the dry and troubled minds of people, providing peace and awakening spiritual and philosophical consciousness in society.
Therefore, Param Pujya Maharaj Shri's voice is like that flute in which the Lord's voice resonates. The flute has no voice of its own. Similarly, Param Pujya Maharaj Shri is such a flute in which the vibration of the Lord's voice occurs.
Life and Spiritual Journey
Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Param Pujya Maharaj Shri Ram Kinkar Ji was born into a family deeply rooted in Vedic traditions and spiritual practices. From a young age, he showed exceptional wisdom and devotion towards Lord Ram and the teachings of Ramcharitmanas.
His spiritual journey began with deep study of scriptures and meditation. He was blessed with the divine gift of understanding the profound meanings hidden within the verses of Ramcharitmanas, making him one of the greatest exponents of this sacred text.
Maharaj Shri's life was dedicated to spreading the message of Lord Ram through his discourses, writings, and teachings. He established Ramayanam Ashram in Ayodhya as a center for spiritual learning and devotion.
Spiritual Philosophy
Maharaj Shri believed that Ramcharitmanas is not just a religious text but a mirror of life itself. He taught that every verse contains profound philosophical insights that are relevant to modern life and can guide individuals towards spiritual enlightenment.
The Living Embodiment of Ramcharitmanas
Ramayanam Trust is an institution established by Param Pujya Maharaj Shri Ram Kinkar Ji, dedicated to Tulsidas literature and its great objectives. It is believed that only through Param Pujya Maharaj Shri's pen can Tulsidas be truly read, and only through his voice can Tulsidas be truly heard.
Without understanding Maharaj Shri's literature and thoughts, it is impossible to comprehend the heart of Tulsidas. His interpretation of Ramcharitmanas has made this sacred text accessible to millions of devotees worldwide.
Maharaj Shri's teachings emphasize that Ramcharitmanas is a fountainhead of pure, effulgent knowledge - a treatise of philosophy, theosophy, psychology, besides being a great reservoir of myth, folk wisdom, and devotional expression.
Milestones and Achievements
Birth and Early Education
Born into a family of scholars and devotees, Maharaj Shri showed exceptional spiritual inclinations from childhood. He dedicated his early years to the study of Vedas, Puranas, and spiritual texts.
Spiritual Awakening
Deep immersion in the study of Ramcharitmanas and development of unique philosophical insights. Began his journey as a spiritual teacher and guide.
Literary Contributions
Started writing comprehensive commentaries on Ramcharitmanas. Authored numerous books that became essential reading for spiritual seekers and scholars.
International Recognition
Gained recognition as an international orator and scholar. Conducted discourses and seminars worldwide, spreading the message of Ramcharitmanas.
Samadhi
On August 9, 2002, Param Pujya Maharaj Shri took samadhi at Ramayanam Ashram, Ayodhya, leaving behind a rich legacy of spiritual teachings and literary works.
Contributions and Recognition
Prolific Writer
Authored more than 100 books on Ramcharitmanas, spirituality, and philosophy. His works have been translated into multiple languages including Marathi, Gujarati, and Oriya.
Padma Bhushan Awardee
Recognized by the Government of India with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award for his exceptional contributions to literature and spiritual teachings.
International Orator
Renowned as an international speaker who conducted discourses and seminars worldwide, spreading the message of Ramcharitmanas to global audiences.
Academic Leadership
Served as the President of the International Ramayan Conference, contributing significantly to academic discourse on Ramayana and Hindu philosophy.
Spiritual Guide
Established Ramayanam Ashram in Ayodhya as a center for spiritual learning, providing guidance to thousands of devotees and spiritual seekers.
Living Embodiment
Recognized as the living embodiment of Ramcharitmanas, bringing the ancient wisdom to contemporary relevance through his teachings and interpretations.
Legacy and Impact
Despite all his glittering literary merits, countless achievements, recognitions, and laurels with no peer among the galaxy of literates, not even for a moment does he take credit for pioneering a renaissance movement in reflective psychology and spirituality.
"Knowledge is eternal," a keyword and essence of our evolved culture - "For your admiration I am gratified, but I am only instrumental, every individual is finite! Where there is beauty, there is light." Such are the frank admissions of this modest messiah and master to many.
Ramayanam Ashram in Ayodhya, where Maharaj Shri took samadhi on August 9, 2002, continues to serve as a spiritual center. People from various beliefs and backgrounds come here to acquire literature and express their devotion to Maharaj Shri's thoughts.
His increasing universal popularity both among the masses and the classes speaks volumes in appreciation of his classical philosophy. All trustees of Ramayanam Trust are imbued with the feeling that the most important service of the Trust should be to give direction and vision to the public in the propagation of healthy thinking.
A Call to Seekers
I would humbly plead with all our readers to drink from this "Eternal ocean of knowledge", share this infinite, life-giving nectar with your friends and contribute to a peaceful, happier world which we shall leave as a legacy for coming generations to dwell!
May the Lord Bless.
Jai Siyaram!