ramachandransunilkumar

Today, I reflect on the life and grace of Muni Narayana Prasad Swami, the former Guru and Head of Narayana Gurukulam. A profound philosopher and prolific author, Swamiji spent his life making the complex wisdom of the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and the works of Sree Narayana Guru accessible to seekers worldwide. Beyond his intellectual brilliance, he embodied the very "Awareness" he taught—simple, compassionate, and deeply principled.

​I have known Swamiji since 1985, often meeting him during my time at the Sivagiri Mutt, particularly when he stayed in the cottage near the Nataraja Guru Samadhi. One memory, in particular, stays with me, illustrating his selfless character:

​Years ago, the Sree Narayana Mission UK requested a representative from the Ashram to oversee the Guru Mandir. While Swami Saswatheekananda had recommended me, an elder Swami from the Gurukulam was also interested. When I learned of this, I told Muni Narayana Prasad Swami that if a member of the Gurukulam wished to go, I would step aside. He simply encouraged me, saying that if I wished to go, I should.

​It wasn't until months later that I discovered the depth of his support. His office assistant asked if I was heading to the UK, revealing that Swamiji had written a letter to the Mission. In it, he had recommended that if "Sunil from Sivagiri" came, they should welcome me into the Mission. He had recommended me over his own Ashram's candidate, yet he never once mentioned his help to me.

​This was the essence of Swamiji: a man who acted with pure intention, without the need for recognition or credit. His teachings live on in his books, but his spirit lives on in these quiet acts of grace.

​My humble pranams to a Great Soul. ❤️

Back in 2007, the Portuguese "Blue Travel Magazine" published an article about my yoga classes. The author included a line suggesting that anyone visiting Varkala should invite me for tea and a philosophical discussion.
​When I use that article for my advertisements, I purposely skip that sentence—but it seems the word got out anyway! These days, instead of just tea, I often find myself invited to breakfast. 🥞🍳

Another beautiful breakfast satsang with the best company. ❤️ Nothing beats starting the day with good food, deep conversation, and even better friends. Grateful for these moments.

When friends invite you for a delicious breakfast, it is just impossible to say no! 🥞☕️