Mahamuni George Bailin was a founding member of Ananda Ashram (1964) as well as an original signatory to the charters of the Yoga Society of New York, incorporated in 1958. George was the first disciple of our Guru in the West, going back to 1956. He stayed in close contact with Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati until his mahasamadhi and remained actively involved with the Yoga Society for several years thereafter. In more recent times, his life became increasingly contemplative. He passed away peacefully on December 2, 2020, at age 92 in his home near the Ashram.

A prolific poet and published author, George Bailin was a high school English professor in New York City for three decades. He was also co-editor of many of the Guru’s writings and later published numerous articles about him in his monthly Newsletters, as well as a book titled Sage of Ananda.

George was also the first president of the International Schools of East-West Unity (Gurukula), Inc., established at Ananda Ashram by Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati. In 1993, the Guru wrote about him: “George Bailin is the symbol of unity on all levels. He is working with me since 1957 day and night. He is beyond all religion, a poet, scientist and linguist. ‘Beyond all religion’ means that he has love for every religion – in fact, for all of existence.”

A memorial celebration hosted by Ananda Ashram is planned for the fall.

Several times a week, watch our fire ceremony and other teachings online,
beginning at 9:00am.

Although our dear friend and teacher, Joan Suval, left her body on April 24, 2020, she left us a wealth of programs and talks. Joan dedicated her life to the teachings of Yoga and Vedanta and being a "radio" for Guruji. We were so fortunate to have had her in our lives for so many years. Guruji's blessings are surely with her.

The Board of Trustees of the Yoga Society has approved the creation of the Joan Suval Memorial Fund for the Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati Audio Visual Center. Joan had been planning this project as part of her move to the Ashram. Discussions have been ongoing to implement this wonderful endeavor. Your support, as always, would be appreciated.

The Ashram has designated the first Saturday of each month to present a Meditation, starting at 3 pm, in the Temple of Light (upstairs in the Main House) with the recording by Joan Suval, "Witnessing from Second to Second." This will be followed by a recorded Talk by Joan offered in the Meditation room downstairs.

Om Shantih