Self-Realization Fellowship Blog

In Memoriam: Brother Ramananda (1932 – 2025)

October 02, 2025

 

Our dear Brother Ramananda, a monastic disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda for nearly sixty years, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Self-Realization Fellowship International Headquarters in Los Angeles.

Brother Ramananda is fondly remembered by members of Self-Realization Fellowship for his role as a minister at the SRF Pasadena, Lake Shrine, and Encinitas Temples. He also served as a secretary for Sri Daya Mata in the Office of the President for many years, and traveled to more than twenty countries lecturing on Paramahansaji’s Kriya Yoga teachings.

A memorial service will be held for him in the coming weeks, after which a fuller account of Brother Ramananda’s life will be added to this post.

Please join us in prayers for our dear Brother Ramananda at this time of his transition into the blessed realms of divine light and bliss. Our love and gratitude go out to him for his life of dedication and devotion to God and Guru, and for the spirit of divine friendship and service with which he inspired SRF monastics and members alike.

flower
Leave a comment
Renny

God Bless Brother Ramananda,
For his kind words and life changing Kriya initiation!
What a great spiritual warrior!

Char

So many years of memories of Brother Ramananda at Lake Shrine. In May 1995, he performed our wedding there, so spiritual, and I will remember him always on that day. Brother Ramananda’s services in the Windmill Chapel were also so spiritual, I will remember his voice full of devotion. So many years of incredible devotional service to all. Gurus blessings to you Brother Ramananda, your energy helps me daily!

Tara

I took Kriya from you. You were Master's blessed instrument. Thank you dear Brotherji. Jai Guru Jai Guru

Annemarie Deubl

Thank you for your smiling blessings. Forever in my heart with our blessed Guru. Om….:)

Garth Sheriff

On June 24, 1989 Brother Ramananda started Lauren and I on our married spiritual path. It was a beautiful summer day, with the Sun peeking through from a morning rain; and Brother was the beaming light that shown through him from Devine mother. His words and encouragement were beautiful, and we are now 36 years blessed from having that gentle soul officiate at our wedding. God bless the deepening river you traverse into the ocean of God’s arms, with thanks.

Marc

Though we never met, the light in your eyes joy in your smile, transmute smile, very soul to love and grace. Blessings to you, dear brother.

Andrea Starks

Brother Ramananda presided at the kriya yoga ceremony in Kansas City, Mo., where I received initiation many, many years ago. Master's blessings to you always, dear Brother!

MASTRANGELO Giovanni

I trust in the greatness of Man through Brother Ramananda's life !

Tracy

Thank you Brother Ramananda for the love ❤️ and Light you shined while in your body spreading the teachings and lessons of our Guru. Thank you for performing our wedding ceremony and christening both our girls! You hold a special place in our hearts!

Annette Rohrbach

Deeply blessed I feel to be part of our communtiy, which is giving birth to such precious beeings.
Thank GOD! Thank You GuruDeva!

Damary Rodriguez

Blessed soul , free at last! Enjoy your journey ,in that beautiful realm ,
with God and Gurus
Jai Guru

Scott Taylor

Safe ascending travels, Brotherji, and thank you for precious memories of time spent in proximity in Encinitas during my time as a postulant and novice monk….Onward, never ending, sir!

Clare Douglass

Arno and I were initiated by Brother Ramananda in 1996 in Sydney. Thank you for this ceremony and for travelling such a distance. ☀️

Clare Douglass

Arno and I were initiated by Brother Ramananda in 1996. Thank you for this ceremony. ☀️

Urvashi Sibal

Though we never met you, Swami Ramananda ji, we are inspired by the wonderful anecdotes shared in the comments here that describe what a great soul you are. May you rest in the peaceful embrace of Divine Mother! Jai Guru!

Thacher Hurd

What a positive and glowing soul Bro. Ramananda was. I only saw him speak a few times at Convocation, but I remember once he got all two thousand or so devotees in the California Ballroom to stand up and chant as loud as we could: "I WILL NEVER GIVE UP! I WILL NEVER GIVE UP! I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!!" for about five minutes. I will never forget the experience,. It was electric and I felt that it really strengthened my commitment and devotion to Master. He was so inspiring.

Gita

Saddened to lose such a brilliant gem of a soul. So many memories of his warmth and smiles at the Ashrams and at convocations. His messages with anecdotes of Guruji and Daya Maya will be sorely missed. His place in the beautiful beyond would be certain for his unceasing and dedicated service with devotion and sincere dedication. We are grateful to such magnanimous souls for their guidance

Tara Kadium

Your warm smile is ever in my heart. Thank you for all the support and care you have given to Master's devotees, you are deeply missed.

Jim Ehrmin

I was very blessed to receive Kriya from Brother Ramananada in Vancouver B.C. so many years ago. The last time I heard him speak was at the Encinitas Temple. He was so immersed in the divine and so radiant. Such a wonderful Monk and divine soul, Jai Guru Brother!

HAZ

Dear Brotherji, I am certain that you are receiving a divine floral reception from the Master’s. Thank you for your service, for leading us onward and upward on the path of Self-Realization, and for your beautiful and fun stories of our beloved Daya Mata. Death ‘has no sting’ for you. Jai Guru, Jai Ma, Jai Brotherji. Undoubtedly, you have reached the shores of cosmic consciousness where Master and the Divine Ones are receiving you now.

Anonymous

Aum Guru! Aum! AUM! AUM! What blessings this benign soul bestowed! Some of the wonderful comments provide charming glimpses of his unique personality. Such a saintly and inspiring soul! One of the “living tomes” that Guruji and the Masters created through the SRF/YSS teachings. A victorious life.! AUM! AUM!AUM! Pronams!

Jaime

We love you Brother. I am saddened that Master’s direct and first generation disciples are gradually leaving us.

Rejeanne Jalbert

Thank you for your unending devotion to serving God and Guru and all of us devotees all these years.
The example of your life has forever uplifted us to do the same!
Jai Gurus!

Leandro Cabrera

All my love to Brother Ramananda´s soul, he´s already in his Guru´s heart. He baptized me and my wife 33 years ago in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Joy Joy Joy!

Paolo

As a minister on tour I met him many times in Rome, but I want to remember the last time I met him: it was in Encinitas (August 2015) and he was so sweet and full of joy; he made me think of a child rejoicing in Divine Mother’s lap. Happy journey brother.

Uday

Br. Ramananda, my deepest prayers and thoughts are with you for a peaceful transition and eternal rest in the company of the Gurus. There are no words to describe your dedication and devotion to the Guru, a true legacy that will continue to inspire thousands of devotees.
Jai Guru

christine céré

dear Brotherji, we never met, yet I feel as if I could feel the angelic simplicity of your soul, as Christ said 'come to me as a child of God'. may Guruji receives you arms widely opened, as infinite as love can be.... prayers...

Sandy Gray

Dear Brother ji
Thank you for initiation into kriya yoga
Sending prayers on your blessed journey home.
With Divine Love and Friendship

Christian Francois

Even without ever having met you dear Brother, hearing of your long dedication to God and Guru is inspiring to me to renew my efforts on this path.

Jody Inman

Living far away from temples, I only had one chance to meet Brother Ramananda; at an Easter Sunrise service at Encinitas Ashram Grounds about 23 years ago. What a blessing it was to be able to hear him speak on that beautiful morning.

Denise Brehm

Dear Brother, I send you my love and eternal gratitude for initiating me in Kriya in Boston those many years ago. Om Shanti. Jai Guru.

Kevin

I didn’t know Brother Ramananda at all, as I live in Germany, but among Guruji’s little ones is everyone special, aren’t they? (-: Now he’s with Master, for sure. God bless you, thank you for your service, Brother.

Gopaldas Farde

May God rest his soul in peace. May God and Guru bless his astral journey back to heaven our real Home.

Joe and Wendy Lowe

We were so blessed to have Brother in our lives. He married us. It was a beautiful ceremony. Through the years we were able to spend time with him aswe lived near the Encinitas Temple. We send you love and blessings . You will always be in our hearts.

Joaquín García Rodríguez

I met Brother Ramananda in Paris in 1969, when he was returning from India with Daya Mataji. At that time, he was known as Brahmachari Philip. I was fortunate enough to be able to help, along with him, find a suitable microphone so Daya Mataji could give her lecture while seated. So we went around Paris until we found one. Beautiful memories of his spirit of service.
Joaquín García Rodrígez

Shailesh and Mina Raja

I remember the first time we met when Brother Ramananda and Brother Bhumananda visited Toronto in the mid 90’s. Sending him lots of love and light as he transitions to the Astral.
Om Guru. Om Guru. Om Guru

Michael Coaten

I first met brother Ramananda when beloved Daya Mataji stopped in London on her way to India in August 1969. I was initiated by Ma into Kriya Yoga at that time. We did not meet again until I saw him surrounded by loving devotees on the lawn at Encinitas during Convocation. His love for Daya Ma was so palpable, his sincerity, his sparkling smile, his gentle wit captivated us all He was a great soul and loyal servant of Guruji and will now certainly be reunited with Master in a glorious heavenly place.

LF

Dear Brother Ramananda,

When you were Brahmachari Phillip, you spoke so fervently of your selfless loyalty to SRF and Sri Daya Mata that I was greatly influenced. It was only a moment in the Convocation book store in the Crystal Ballroom, but it made a lasting memory. I send you my gratitude, love, and goodwill. All Blessings!

Jacqueline

Dear Brother, God/Guru bless you. I always enjoyed your sense of fun which you learnt from Dayama with the water gun!

Andy

Brother Ramananda was very instrumental in helping raise funds and organize the building of the new temple at Lake Shrine, as he was the minister in charge at that time. Counselled many devotees including myself on a few occassions, as well as all the lectures, Kriya ceremonies, Voluntary League meetings and meditations at Lake Shrine and elsewhere during those years (80's and 90's) with Br. T. I remember one lecture where he emphasized reading the lessons and the Guru's writings as an important key to this path. God and Guru bless you Brother Ramananda! Well Done!

Hemant 6

Jai Guru , First time seen Brother Ramananda and I can feel the Guru Grace of him. What a day Divine choose to his soul to merge in Divinity in India called 'Vijaydashmi' where Lord Ram killed Demon Ravan. For SRF / YSS Brother Ramananda remains as Lord Ram.May God & Guru Bless Him.

Lana

Thank you Brother Ramananda for all that you have done in your life of Service to SRF & to the many Devotees in SRF. I personally wish to thank you for initiating me in Kriya Yoga in NY CC.

Nancy Anderson

God and Gurus Bless You Home, dear Brother Ramanandaji. Thank You for serving our spiritual family in Gurudeva’s holy name.

Joel PozenNancy Anderson

I was blessed to serve at Lake Shrine the entire time brother served there. Brother was my friend. He loved me and taught me how to serve. Thank you Brother, God and Gurus!

Carol Shane

I am gateful that I got to be at the services at the Encinitas Temple when Brother Ramananda was serving. He told a lot of stories and was an inspiration to me. Thank you Brother for your services to the Temple and being an example of Master's teachings. Rest in Peace and Love.

Kristin

Brother Ramananda will be greatly missed. He always had such wonderful stories of Daya Mata and such a joyful disposition. He made me laugh when he told us at the Encinitas Temple at one of the Sunday Sermons that we needed to be balanced in life. That we all can't be a "bunch of bliss bunnies" running around Encinitas. Thank you for your service to Master and all of his children.

Linda

Brother Ramananda was the first monastic my family met when we moved to California so many years ago. He was so loving and caring to all of us. Over the years, Brother always stayed in touch with us, and almost always called to see how we were doing at just the right time to offer his encouragement.
Brother helped me so much when my husband became ill. His gentle voice and kind words and prayers were those of an angel.
I am sending prayers and love to you now, dear Brother. Thank you for your inspiration and for all those years of divine friendship.

Sharon Hillis

Rest in Peace, Brother Ramananda, to me - Uncle Phil. Thank you for all of life's lessons you taught me since I was born. I loved visiting you many times at SRF in Encinitas.

Misty Bashara

Uncle , you touched my life as a child. And more as an adult. I hold many of your teaching very close by my side daily.
Your spirit is with me

Shweta jyoti

“Offering deepest gratitude for your lifetime of devoted service to Guruji’s work. Your dedication and humility have blessed so many hearts. While we rejoice in your freedom, the earth still feels deep thankfulness for all you gave.”

Lucky Tanner

Love, hugs, and prayers. Thank you Brother for your kindness, love, and especially your great sense of humor!

Habi

Thank You Brother Ramanada for initiated me. You are with Guruji and others. Sending Love and Light.

Lou

First met Brother in Vancouver BC. Such a glow of Divine mothers love. Heard many stories of Master and the Lake Shrine. Thankyou Brotherji
You’re with Master .. for a short sojourn

Charles Schermerhorn

Thank you Brother for your service and devotion!
Praying for your happy transition to the astral with Master!
Thank you for christening my youngest daughter Alison.
Jai Guru

helena Pasquet

Deep gratitude to you, dear brother Ramananda , for initiating me in Kriya in Milano in 1986, and for your service to Guruji's message for the world. I will allways remember your serene and peace conveying presence. My prayers fly with you to the light and love of God, where your soul rejoices. Jai Guru

Mark Whitley

Brother Ramananda contributed so much to Encinitas over many years and it was always delighted to cross paths and share conversation which almost always included his warm smile and some whimsical humor!

Gregory Alker

I remember just starting on the path when I was 18 and traveling to New York City and meeting with you, Brother Ramananda (45 years ago). I remember your guidance and thoughtful words then and on the future occasions that we met at Mother Center in later years. I have thought about you over the years and prayed for you as I am sure you have for so many. Bless you and may you be immersed in Guru’s and God’s love.

Esther Cramer

Brother Ramananda thank you for your light and blessings that you gave to many. I will always remember you for christening my daughter 29 years ago when she was just 9 months old. You are now with God and the Masters - so happy for you.

Sandy Brooks

I remember well our Beloved Ramananda and the Love and bliss of Master's teachings that poured from his lips. Now he is with Master and the Great Ones. Thank you for sharing Guruji's teachings so generously.

Andre de la Torre

Brother was such a special person. He was always so cheerful and dedicated to Master and Daya Ma. He dearly loved my parents and brothers and was dearly loved by us. I still have two phone messages from him that I have saved for many years. He had a unique sense of humor that was priceless. We love you Brother and thank you for all you that did for us and for so many others. Jai Guru, Jai Ma, Jai Brother!

David Brunk

I fondly remember Him as Br. Philip from New York. He joined Mother center from Hollywood Temple. We contacted each other a few times over the years and He was true blue SRF always. He was a major contribution from the New York Center and there were others, such as Annie Vickerman and Louis remembered always.

Diane & Richard Nares

We will always remember you Brother Ramananda with love and appreciation for the beautiful time that you spent with our 5 year-son Emilio throughout his cancer journey, and the last year of his life. We smile as we visualize the two of you honoring Master and one another in the next realm, until we will meet again.

Linda Brown

Sending gratitude to Brother Ramananda who was my minister at Lake Shrine for many years. His beam of light shone off of his face and his smile radiated love, compasion and wisdom.
We are all so loved by our Guru!

Tahra Charmaine

I’ve always felt so blessed to have had Brother Ramananda marry us in the Encinitas temple 15 years ago. He truly made it so special and his divine presence was felt by everyone. He also came to my mother‘s bedside during the time she was passing. Praying and chanting I know she felt so much better while he was there. He was so close to both my mother and father for years. Thank you Brother for all the love and divine friendship that you gave to us all through the years. We love and miss you…
Jai Guru

Subal Goswami

Brother Ramananda Ji you were such an inspiration to my life’’ Always looked forward to see you in Encinitas temple . PEACE

Rick

Brother Ramananda initiated me in Kriya in 1978 in Perth Western Australia when I was 22. I never met him again but I often thought of him, even this morning when I thought, “I wonder if Br Ramananda is still at Encinitas”. Then I heard the news of his passing tonight. Sending my love and my prayers.

Fiora

Oro con amor y gratitud por el traspaso a la Luz del Hermano _Ramananda. Él fue quien me inició al Kriya Yoga en 1999 en Roma, por lo que le estaré eternamente agradecida. Bendiciones de corazón!

Udo

Bruder Ramananda gab mir eine innere Bestätigung. Danke dafür. Gott habe ihn selig.

Flor

Dearest Brother Ramananda, I'm so very grateful for the work you did for us, SRF-devotees and undoubtedly, many more, during this lifetime.
May your blissful soul, freed from its earthly encasement, forever dwell in Love.

Bette Ober

Our dear dear Brother Ramananda, so many memories with him at Lake Shrine. He was just a wonderful part of our Lake Shrine family , always ready to spend time with my family too. Every Christmas at Mother Center when my daughter Lauren was little he would hold her hand & carefully take her to every Christmas tree from all over the world. A joyous & cheerful time she never forgets. Jai Brotherji sending my love for your journey in the beyond! JAI GURU ! Jai

Martin Madsen

May God and Gurus be with you, Brother Ramanandaji! Thank you so much to everyone who so kindly shared their treasured memories of Brotherji. Jai Guru!

Steve

Brother Ramananda initiated me into Kriya Yoga nearly 40 years ago. I am just one of thousands so blessed to have known him and to have experienced the love of God and Guru through him.

Evelyn Tu

I I first met Bro in the early 80s after a meeting with the monastics at Publication Centre over the printing of Inner Reflections .i was asked where i was heading after. I replied to Lake Shrine.
When i arrived Bro cheerfully took me on a little tour and to a short meditation on the
house Boat. I was told to wait..
In an instant Bro reappeared. grinning with a napkin draped over one shoulder and a plate of food poised head-level like a chef..i was left discreetly to partake of a wonderful repast!

Victoria

Caro Fratello Ramananda, anche se non ti ho conosciuto di persona, ricordati di noi che siamo ancora qua' nella prova, e porta il nostro amore al nostro Amato Gurudeva, digli che lo amiamo più di ogni altra cosa al mondo perche ci fa da canale per tornare a casa dal nostro Amato Padre.

Marsha

May God and Gurus bless you during this transition and beyond. Thank you for your service to our Guru's work. You blessed my life as the minister at my Kriya Initiation. Jai Guru!

Brian

I met Bro. Ramananda many decades ago, at the White Cloud retreat in the beautiful Pennsylvania Pocono mountains. He reminded me of a great, regal king - not arrogant, but a spiritual king and rishi who held the world at his command.

Adam

Prayers of love with you and my appreciation to you for all you are and were. Thank you for everything!! Light and peace always, Adam.

Ravi Pathak

May his soul merge in the light and bliss of the Divine mother.

Shivanshi

Dear Brother,

Prayers for your journey back to the lap of Divine Mother.

Mike Masoud

I first met Brother Ramananda in 1974 and since then attended many of his classes at convocations and somewhere else. He was an inspiring example of unwavering loyalty and utmost dedication to Master’s work and the SRF ideals. Until we meet again, love you Brother Ramananda!

Marie

Brother Ramananda was a guiding light with a kind soul. He christened my daughter—she was only a few months old at the time and she laughed with delight. He also visited my husband in the hospital and eventually in hospice, providing him with peace and comfort. Brother Ramananda also led the memorial service for my husband. I am thankful to have known him and I send him bright light and love.

Diane

Dear sweet blessed Brother Ramananda, I will always carry your chants of Om, in my heart and soul, your divinely funny stories about New York , and your paintings of flowers and the ocean, your personal care for your devotes and the postive power of your prayers to help others.Om forever .

Fredericka Smith

Rest in peace Brother Ramanada, I’ll always remember seeing and speaking with you during convocations and the advice you gave me.. I’ll miss your presence.

Kelly Robinson

He was a divine guide to the Gurus. Brother Ramananda always had a smile for you. May he be filled with the joy in the astral realm that he gave in this one.

E Blane

I remember a story that Brotherji told about 40 years ago. As a young postulant, he and the other monks were working overtime into the night on the Encinitas grounds to prepare for an important event. He was exhausted, but just then "important visitors" arrived to inspect the work. He could not restrain himself from blurting out, "I'm gonna collapse if I don't get some rest!" To which one of the "important visitors" responded gently, "Well, I hope you collapse gracefully.” To this day, when I'm on the point of collapse, I remember this story and it helps me remain graceful.

Penney

Bro Ramananda headed Center Dept. in 1979. I received initiation that yr and talked w/ him about starting a meditation group in rural WA where I live. He was encouraging, supportive, even enthusiastic. Later he said, also with enthusiasm, we should have a retreat so devotees in cities could enjoy the peace of the woods where we met. Thank you Brother for your encouragement and enthusiasm, the same enthusiasm we saw on a couples retreat you led a decade later. No doubt you will service Master in the astral with the same enthusiasm!

Patrick

I don't remember the exact year but it was probably around 1975, or later. It was during convocation and there were about 8 ushers. Brother was a Brahmachari then. He was running the convocation with Brahmachari Bruce (Brother Paramananda now). Ramananda told Hal Brown from Hollywood Temple to go over to the group of men and organize the ushering for the convocation. Things have sure changed since then. But that was the beginning. It is much more organized now and there are many more volunteers. That was a big job for those monks to run the convocation back then.

Helen Acosta

Beother Ramananda Thank you for all your counselings during the years in Encinitas
The friendship and love you give to everyone was divine
Sending loving prayers
We will miss you Brother
Rest in Masters arms

Carol

Though my interactions with Brotherji were few, I was always uplifted by his smile, light, humility and joyful humor. Thank you Brotherji!

Mary Jo

Thank you Brother Ramananda for your deepest dedication to Master and SRF. Jai Guru.

Silvia

Dear Brother Ramananda - your courageous and resounding LOYALTY call out to our beloved Gurudeva's work will forever remained etched in my heart.

Usha Bhat Wali

I am sending love and prayers to Brother Ramananda. God & Guruji received him in heaven

Anthea

Sending love and gratitude to you, dear Bro. Ramananda. Thank you for your friendship to my family and for your wonderful example of a Kriya yogi.

Daniel Reed

I met Brother Ramananda when I was 10 years old (I'm now 59)...and I'm sure going to miss him. Thank you, Brother, for your love and friendship, your counsel and guidance, and your exemplary life devoted to serving our Guru, his work, and his chelas.
Jai Guru...Om Chanti...Jai Guru...Om Chanti

UdayDaniel Reed

So blessed, you've been on the path since you were 10 years old and meeting Br. Ramananda.That is such an amazing Guru-Chelas relationship. Thank you for sharing!
Jai guru

Phil

May God's blessings continue to pour into you as you transition back Home. Om Shanti.

DM

Joy to your soul Brotherji. Thanks for the many years of service to God and the Great One’s!!!

Jai Gurus!

Patrick Kennedy

Many good memories of Bro. Ramananda from his Mt. Washington days. Rest in peace. Jai Guru, Jai Ma!

Gene Blake

I was privileged to spend time with him on his Boston visits including trips to places where our Guru had spent time. He was an inspiring and beautiful soul.

Larry

I met Bro. Ramananda at Encinitas during one of my retreats. I asked him to check my Kriya. Afterwards he asked about my family and other things. What I remembered was that when I left his presence I felt bliss! He might not have known it, but Master used him to transmit bliss to me!
Thank you,Brother, for that wonderful blessing that came through you!

Gary Young

Thank you! Brother Ramananda for Christening my 2 daughters at the Encinitas temple.
We always enjoyed your sermons, and saying hello to you, on your morning walks in Encinitas.
God & Guru bless you!

Mitchell Conley

Thank You Brother Ramananda for the gift of spending time with you and doing my wife and I the honor of performing our marriage ceremony. We are eternally grateful and blessed to know you. You touched so many hearts and souls. Your unforgettable smile is etched in my mind forever. God's blessings to you.

Malcolm Kirby

I have fond memories of Brother Ramananda giving Sunday service in the 1980's and back when service was held in the beautiful Windmill.
Rest in Peace and Joy, Sir

Bill Brennen

I am so happy for dear Brother Ramananda that he is free. He was so strong and what a sense of humor he had! He made loyalty to the guru his guiding principle in life, and I know he is in great joy now. He was a true friend to all sincere devotees, and I’m sure we will meet in future as friends.

Mukesh Agarwal

For a highly evolved soul passing into the realms of God's causal world is a joyous event.
We pray for great Guru's to welcome you with open arms.
Your Guru's seva will be remembered by your humble nature.

Rama

Praying for a peaceful transition of his soul to the higher realms! Jai Gurudeva.

Richard GoldenRama

Way to go, Brother! I always loved your candid talks, and your delightful spontaneity. Now you get to REALLY dance with the infinite!

ShawnRama

Brother came to NYC. He was always smiling. Thank you Brother for your love and inspiration. Godspeed! Jai guru!

Bradley BernsteinRama

Brother, you were a dear friend Min Encinitas for many years I remember very vividly. He walks every day around Encinitas and your big smile and you are an amazing artist.

Rhonda

Thank you Brother for your divine friendship and love and service to God, Gurus and all of us!
Jai Brother-ji Jai!

Ruth Messing

I also have been a Kriyaban for almost 60 years and having lived in San Diego most of that time am astonished that I never had the privilege to meet this wonderful soul. Blessings for his Transition

Tara

Thank you, Brother Ramananda, for sharing your Light and blessed inspiration. With heartfelt prayers.

Charles Burditt

Brother was my first minister in Encinitas. I always enjoyed his talks. Brother Ramananda, you will be missed, but you will always be loved. Now you are with Master and the others who preceded you.
AUM

LindaMCharles Burditt

I remember the sweetness and joyfulness of Brother when he was Brahmachari Philip and Daya Mataji’s secretary and would greet devotees at opening of so many early Convocations. And, he loved receiving and sharing stories of children and their take on God. Rest in peace dear soul for being such a spiritual role model. Jai Jai

mare baranski

Dear Brother, You initiated me in Kriya at the 2001 convocation. I am very blessed that you did. Thank you.

Anahid

I always remember my dear Brother ji, with his sweet smile. His kind and loving words were most healing when I was sad, but strong and direct when I needed discipline.
God and Gurus bless your soul.

Robert Hudson

Brother Ramananda was such a strong influence during my time in Encinitas. I remember many times when brother would be out for a walk in town, he would call out my name in front of my house to go for a walk with him. He always kept the conversations light, yet they always had a subtle teaching quality to them. Sometimes when he would talk about master, there was such an aura about him. I could feel a tangible bliss emanating from him. Brother had a great sense of humor and was very kind to all of us and yet could be stern when we needed it.

Sharon Campbell

Dear Brother was so welcoming to me in my nascent days at Encinitas temple. He gave me the Om Technique and Hong Sau. He told wonderful stories. Such a humble and humorous soul. Rest now Brother with the Great Ones, while we remember your example of pure devotion to our Guru. Om. Peace. Amen.

Paul William Friedman

Beloved Brother, a friend to all. Kind, open-hearted, and bubbling with mirth. He will be remembered as a friend.

Sergio F.

Brother Ramananda was the first monk who married my wife and I in 1992 when he visited Argentina. A very charming monk indeed!! Sending peace and harmony to his soul. Jai Guru!!

Shankar Narayanan

Thank you, Brotherji, for the Ma's stories that you shared during the Encinitas pilgrimage open house

Jamme K. Chantler

Brother Ramānanda gave me kriyā dīkṣa. It saddens me that he is gone, but he is happy!

Miriam Betty Veiga and Jose Francisco Veiga

Brother Ramananda was the first Monastic we met from SRF with my husband in 1992 in São Paulo/Brasil.
At the time we had just received English Lesson 8,
so his talks and presence were sublime.
We were much blessed when he performed our Spiritual Wedding Ceremony and the Christening of our daughter.

God and Gurus bless you Brother.

Maria Rosaria Caracchi

Having meet you 45 years ago in Milano for the Kriya yoga initiation, I will always remember your wonderful smile and light. Thank you so much

Kerry Lovell

Beloved Br Ramananda, sending loving prayers. You made such an impact on the NZ devotees when you visited us. We all often reminisce on your visit, how powerful, inspiring and full of humour and wisdom it was for us. You really impacted and inspired us. Thank you for Christening my children for your wise words in Encinitas as you shared wonderful stories about our Beloved Ma. God bless you for ever Dear Brother, you will be missed here on the earth plane. Jai Guru, Jai Ma

Shivani

A great soul has returned to the Divine. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spiritual light will continue to guide and inspire many generations to come. Jai Guru

Sreeram Iyer

On Vijaya Dashami Day
The Anniversary Of Rama's Triumph {Defeating Ravana(Evil) Rescuing Sita(The Soul)}
And The Apostle Of Peace Gandhiji's Birthday...
Ramanandaji joined the
Astral Celebrations Departing
The Physical @ 93 years, with
His Crown of 60 years of Guru Seva.
What Joy!! What a Celebration There Must Be! What Smiles!!

Chitra and Jugesh Saxena

Truly a blessed soul who led such a perfect life.
We have lived in Encinitas and saw him many times outside of the ashram. Also taking a walk on the beach etc
His name is the same as my Father so we had special affinity with. We shall miss you deeply.

Jeffrey Faus

Favorite memories: He said that the first time he read the Autobiography, when he read about Master's mother dying he started crying uncontrollably. He already felt that close to Master! Another time I left him a phone message, and he called back and left a message that started sweetly, "I hope I'm getting through now. The first time I called, it said your mailbox was full -- and that amused me." Then he read the passage from the Guru Gita that I had asked about. I kept that message on my phone, just so I could hear his voice reading that. Love and prayers for our dear Brother!

Pradeep

May you be enjoying the freedom, that is rightfully yours.. Jai Guru...

Verna Wulle

A life well lived! Thank you Brother Ramananda for your service and friendship.
I will always be grateful for the guidance you gave me. and for the wonderful wedding you officiated for my husband and I. May Guru hold you in his arms always. We will miss you.

Sônia maria

Obrigada irmão Ramananda por escolhido ser devoto de nosso amado Guru Paramahansa Yogananda e espalhar tanto amor a todos nós ensinamentos de Guruji.

Krishnaswami Raja

Brother Ramanada was an is one of my guardian angel who trained and helped and poured his love, practical incisive wisdom, prayers to me.
On numerous occasions when I was at a cross road in my life or a hard situation he was there for me. He truly reflected and radiated embodied the perfect Harmony of Body, Mind and Spirit and he provided me invaluable practical tips on all the three fronts in my life. Brother Ramananda is sitting on the Lap of Divine Mother as he transitioned on Vijayadashami day!

Nancy Waters

Dear Brother Ramananda, I confess, I am sad that you are no longer on this earth plane, yet I know that many angels are lifting you up to heaven, and I will see you again. I attended a retreat with you years ago, and I will always remember the wonderful impact you had on me. Thank you for your sweet, brave, and loving service to Master. What a dedicated and beautiful soul you are! Jai Guru! Jai Ma!

Rafaelina Rodriguez-Ruiz

My family and I have so much love, admiration and gratitude for Brother Ramananda. My late husband and I were young teenagers when we met him in 1978 and over the years he became very close and dear to us. We miss him, but rejoice in his freedom and blessed reunion with Guruji and the Great Ones.
Jai Guru!

Cindy Adams

Such love and joy dear Brother gave to us. His sense of humor and lightness touched even those of us who only met him a few times. Jai Guru for his peace in God and Guru.

Gamila Smith

My Entire family met Brother Ramananda at the rose garden at Srf Lake Shrine and from then on he was part of our family, he preformed my wedding ceremony , christening both my children & guiding & teaching us with so much devotion and love throughout our Srf journey we are blessed for having known him and have him in our spiritual family. We are sending extra love and light and blessings .

Mavis Jean Beynon

Loved him dearly as I visited
As I read how Guru came as the wind of Heaven bearing the fragrance of truth from the father!

I felt and experienced that in Brother
Eternal Gratitude.

Ana Nava-Colin

Thank you dear Brother Ramanandaji for all your Service and the divine Friendship that you gave to us!

Liam Breslin

Thank you for carrying the message of Kriya Yoga which continues to bless the life we live through Guru and his teachings

Ruth

Dear Brother Ramananda christened both my daughters, he was an exceptional representative of SRF and I will always remember his wise and loving advice, a. very dear soul.

Nora

Thank you brother Ramananda for your love, and for giving me Kriya at convocation, I love you

Allia

Brother Ramananda exemplified the teachings of SRF. I have been so fortunate and deeply grateful to have known him my entire life. Brother Ramananda played such a significant role in my families spiritual life at SRF. He officiated my parents wedding and many other momentous occasions! I am crying tears of joy knowing that he has returned to his true abode and to his beloved Guruji. A million flowers of gratitude to this beautiful soul.

Joseph

Peace and bliss to all. Thank you Spirit for your wonderful gift of Brother Ramananda!

Farida irani

Brother Ramananda had been to Sydney many years ago but I remember him distinctly with his vibrant personality! Wish him eternal peace in his heavenly realm! Thank you brother for all your valuable contribution to SRF! RIP! Jai gurus Jai Ms

Theresiu Janicki-Hardy

In deep gratitude and with all our love, we remember Brother Ramananda in our prayers today and over the coming time. Thank you dearest Brother for all your selfless service to us all. We remember with love your beautiful Kriya-ceremony at Convocation, your sweet talks at the retreats at Encinitas, our little meetings during the Encinitas pilgrimages. May God and Guruji bless your divine soul deeply now and always, and may you soar high on wings of light into the arms of Divine Mother and our beloved Guru! Thank you with all our hearts!

Kassandra

Brother was a big inspiration in my early years as a devotee. I have always remembered him with deep gratitude.

Jalane Speer

Thank you Brother for all the dedication, loyalty and love you gave to us all.
Jai Guru

Bernadette

Blessings to our dear Brother Ramananda. There are no words that can describe the deep impact he had on my life as a devotee over the last 40+ years. . He was a friend and family - always there to guide, support and serve. Thank you to dear Brother Ramananda. A true disciple of our Guru. I will miss him but am very happy for his joyous release into Spirit. He is now with God and Gurus.

Kamal Raj Rupakheti, Kathmandu, Nepal

I had an opportunity to receive blessings of Swami Ramananda in June 2010 in Encinitas Ashram.
Goddess Durga Ma Bless Him Always In Divine World.

Grainne

What a wonderful life to have lived and now he is in the arms of the Gurus and our Heavenly Father. We are grateful for his life.

Catherine Jennings

We Aussies very much enjoyed having Brother as our guest in Perth. He told some great stories of his own life and inspired us very much. Sad to hear this planet is without him… a tad envious of the warm welcome he’ll be receiving on t’other side. Thank you Br R.

Richard Manuputy

I remember him fondly from his days at the Lake Shrine. God and Guru bless you brother.

Laurena Brown

Thank you for your prayers for my son for many years and for your loyal service to our Guru. May you be enjoying the freedom that is rightfully yours. Jai Guru! I love you. Laurena

Bonnie Sellstrom

What a good friend Brother was to all of us. Strong, giving good common sense answers to any problem one might have. Also his deep love for dear Daya Ma and the stories he shared about her was always so special to hear. He served the Encinitas Temple for a long time and I deeply thank him for his service to Master and all of us, his devotees.
Thank you and God bless you Brother Ramananda
I send him my friendship, love and goodwill

Pamela Ryland

Beloved Bro Ramananda,
Visited our Sydney Centre several times (in the 1980's/90's ?) Always very warm and loving.
Gave Billy Kriya Diksha
Christened 2 of our 4 Children
Conducted our Spiritual Wedding Ceremony all during same visit, April 1981. Thankyou Bro.

Brenda

Brother was always an inspiration. He would walk through when we were doing flowers to bless us; and the energy in the room changed. I know Master greeted him and is giving him a tour right now.

Martha Wright

Thank you dear Br Ramanada, we were blessed to have you visit Australia. I am grateful for your personal counsel which was unmistakenly clear and straight like an arrow of Rama

Meeta Mukerjee

Will miss you Brother . You were a great light shining upon the world. Sending Love & light

Kimberly

I am sending loving prayers for Brother Ramananda. What a blessing for so many to have had his divine friendship for all these years and be inspired by his dedication to God and Guru. I look forward to hearing more about his life of devotion.

Sara

Thank you Brother Ramananda for all the good you spread by sharing Guruji's words.

Comments Policy
More from the SRF blog
Brother Chidananda in Buenos Aires 01

October 17, 2025

SRF/YSS President Brother Chidananda Visits South America 2025 — Updated

Read more
A Heaven on Earth Chidananda 1440x1080

October 08, 2025

Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the SRF International Headquarters — Special Livestream With Brother Chidananda

Read more
Paramahansa Yogananda standing in front of Mother Center

October 01, 2025

“Where Truth’s Spirit Shall Reign” — Paramahansa Yogananda’s Inspiration From the Dedication of the Mother Center, 1925

Read more