Swami Smaranananda, the revered president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, passed away on Tuesday night due to old age ailments at the age of 94. The news of his demise was confirmed by the Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, which announced his Mahasamadhi in a statement.
Swami Smaranananda, who became the 16th president of the order in 2017, had been admitted to the Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital in Kolkata on January 29 due to an existing urinary tract infection. Despite medical care, he developed respiratory failure and was placed on a ventilator on March 3.
In a post on social media platform X, the Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, expressed deep sorrow over Swami Smaranananda’s passing, stating, “With deep sorrow, we announce the passing away of Swami Smarananandaji, president of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 8:14 pm at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital, Kolkata.”
With deep sorrow we announce the passing away of Swami Smarananandaji, President of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, on Tuesday, 26 March 2024 at 8:14 pm at Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan hospital, Kolkata. He was 94. #belurmath pic.twitter.com/iFpHugQBA8
— Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math (@rkmbelurmath) March 26, 2024
The cremation will take place at Belur Math on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at about 9.00 pm. 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.
https://twitter.com/rkmbelurmath/status/1772671766537593216?s=20
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Swami Smaranananda, acknowledging his significant contributions to spirituality and service. PM Modi recalled his close relationship with the revered monk, including interactions during his visit to Belur Math in 2020 and a recent visit to the hospital to inquire about his health.
“Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered president of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission dedicated his life to spirituality and service. He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations,” said PM Modi.
Srimat Swami Smaranananda ji Maharaj, the revered President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission dedicated his life to spirituality and service. He left an indelible mark on countless hearts and minds. His compassion and wisdom will continue to inspire generations.
I had… pic.twitter.com/lK1mYKbKQt
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 26, 2024
Swami Smaranananda’s passing marks the end of an era for the Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, as the organisation mourns the loss of a beloved spiritual leader. His legacy of devotion, compassion, and wisdom will be remembered by devotees and followers worldwide.
As the Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission grieves the loss of Swami Smaranananda, tributes pour in from dignitaries and devotees alike, honouring his profound impact on spirituality and service. His teachings and ideals are expected to endure, continuing to guide and inspire generations to come.
