Sant Siyaram Baba, a revered Hindu spiritual leader known for his devotion to Lord Hanuman and the Narmada River, has passed away at the age of 94.
Sant Siyaram Baba, a renowned Hindu spiritual leader, passed away on December 11, 2024, at the age of 94. His demise occurred at 6:10 AM at his Bhattyan Ashram, located along the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district. Baba had been battling pneumonia for the past ten days and, respecting his wishes, received treatment at his ashram under the supervision of district hospital doctors.
Sant Siyaram : Early Life and Spiritual Journey
Born in 1930 in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Siyaram Baba embarked on his spiritual path at 17. His journey took him to various pilgrimage sites where he underwent rigorous spiritual training under his guru. In 1962, he chose to settle in Bhattayan, where he engaged in deep meditation. After a prolonged period of silence, he broke his vow with the chant “Siyaram,” which subsequently became his spiritual identity.
Devotion and Contributions
Baba’s unwavering devotion to Lord Hanuman and the Narmada River was well-known among his followers. He dedicated his life to the recitation of the Ramayana, reportedly engaging in this practice for up to 21 hours daily without the aid of spectacles. His ascetic lifestyle included wearing minimal clothing regardless of the weather and subsisting on simple meals. Baba was known for accepting donations of only ₹10 from devotees, using these funds to support the restoration of Narmada ghats and the upliftment of various religious institutions and temples in the Nimar region.
Legacy and Impact
Siyaram Baba’s contributions to the spiritual and cultural fabric of Madhya Pradesh are profound. His efforts in renovating ghats along the Narmada River and supporting religious institutions have left an indelible mark on the community. His teachings emphasized simplicity, devotion, and selfless service, inspiring countless followers. Despite his advanced age, Baba remained active in his spiritual duties, often seen participating in the construction and maintenance of religious sites.
Final Rites and Tributes
Baba’s last rites were performed at 4:00 PM on the day of his passing near his ashram on the banks of the Narmada River. The ceremony was attended by thousands of devotees, dignitaries, and fellow saints. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav was present to pay his respects and acknowledge Baba’s significant contributions to the state’s spiritual heritage.
Clarifying Misconceptions
In October 2024, a viral video falsely claimed that a 188-year-old man had been rescued from a cave in Bengaluru. This misinformation was debunked, revealing that the individual in the video was Siyaram Baba, who was approximately 110 years old at the time. The video depicted Baba engaging in activities at his ashram, not being rescued from a cave.
Conclusion
Sant Siyaram Baba’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to spiritual service. His passing marks the end of an era for his followers and the broader community in Madhya Pradesh. However, his teachings and contributions continue to inspire, leaving a lasting legacy of devotion and selflessness. As the community mourns his loss, they also celebrate his profound impact on their spiritual and cultural lives.
Sant Siyaram Baba’s life and legacy will forever be remembered as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and selfless service. His contributions to the community, his teachings, and his unwavering devotion to his beliefs will continue to inspire future generations.
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