About Us

A life immersed in self-awareness, untouched by worldly attachments – this is the hallmark of a truly liberated soul, a detached saint who spends his lifetime absorbed in inner bliss. Whether in an isolated cave or amidst the rugged mountains, he remains indifferent to worldly engagements, choosing solitude over social interactions — a truly Self-realized saint.

Despite residing in the bustling area of Vanmali Bhuvan in Girgaon, Mumbai, Param Pujya Sadguru Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj lived as a detached ascetic. Always absorbed in the awareness of the Self, he maintained a distance from worldly affairs. Until his last breath, he resided in a modest 15 x 10 feet attic, his humble abode reflecting his complete renunciation.

Just as the sun's radiance cannot be hidden, Maharaj’s spiritual wisdom could not remain concealed. Over time, truth-seekers naturally gravitated toward him. By 1951, Maharaj formally accepted the role of Sadguru, bestowing Naam Diksha (initiation through the sacred name) and imparting knowledge following the tradition of the Inchegiri lineage. Though his disciples gradually increased in number, he never abandoned his small attic room, which he considered his 'cave.' He continued to live in the same humble residence, never seeking grandeur. Even the residents of Vanmali Bhuvan remained unaware for years that a great enlightened soul resided among them.

Maharaj’s teachings eventually spread beyond India, thanks to Bhartanand Shri Maurice Frydman, who played a crucial role in introducing his wisdom to the world. His book, ‘I Am That’, based on conversations with Maharaj, became a beacon of guidance for seekers across the globe. Maharaj’s words drew thousands, igniting a spiritual awakening in many. His small attic transformed into a haven for seekers—a laboratory for the science of self-realization. This led to the establishment of Adhyatma Kendra (Spiritual Centre).

On September 8, 1981, Maharaj left his physical form. The following morning, on September 9, his final journey took him to Banganga, South Mumbai, where his last rites were performed. It was only then that many realized the true significance of the enlightened being who had lived in their midst. The sentiments of the residents of Vanmali Bhuvan reflected the broader reality of Maharashtra, where many were unaware of the depth of wisdom that had once walked among them.

In South Mumbai, Banganga, near Walkeshwar, is considered a sacred place. Maharaj’s Guru, Shri Siddharameshwar Maharaj, attained Mahanirvana in Mumbai in 1936, and his last rites were performed at Banganga Crematorium. In 1951, his disciples built a small white marble memorial in his honour at the same location. After Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Mahanirvana, Adhyatma Kendra made efforts to establish a Samadhi (memorial shrine) for him at Banganga, but due to various challenges, the project could not progress at that time.

Years went by, and during this time, the Samadhi Mandirs of Sadguru Shri Siddharameshwar Maharaj's Mumbai disciples, Swami Shri Kadsiddheshwar Maharaj and Sadguru Shri Ranjit Maharaj, were built at Banganga after their Mahanirvana. However, despite the passage of four decades since Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Mahanirvana, his Samadhi remained unrealized. This lingering absence deeply concerned many devoted Guru-bandhus and Gurubhaginis, who continued to cherish the hope that Maharaj’s memorial would one day become a reality.

Finally, by the grace of the Sadguru, after nearly two years of dedicated effort, this sacred vision materialized on March 12, 2022.

One of the greatest challenges was locating Maharaj’s remains after so many years. However, through the unwavering devotion of his disciples - Shri Sujan Shete, Shri Anil Chube, Shri Dinkar Kshirsagar, Shri Ramnath Ghuge and Shri Prakash Mudye, this became possible. Moreover, Gurubhaginis - Smt. Kamala Ben Lund, Smt. Sujata Chavan, Smt. Lalita Belvalkar, Smt. VanajaTai and Maharaj’s granddaughter, Smt. Savita, who had lovingly preserved his sacred ashes for their daily puja, willingly handed over their sacred urns.

On the Punyatithi (death anniversary) of Sadguru Shri Bhausaheb Maharaj, a grand ceremony was held to inaugurate the beautiful marble Samadhi Mandir of Sadguru Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj at Banganga.

Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj and Shri Bhainath Maharaj shared a deeply affectionate bond as Guru-bandhus (spiritual brothers), united by profound love and spiritual connection. Maharaj had once suggested that during the Nama Ghosh (final chant) at the end of the daily bhajan, Shri Bhainath Maharaj’s name should be recited after his own. This tradition continues faithfully within the disciple lineage even today.

On the occasion of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj’s Samadhi Mandir inauguration, a small memorial for Shri Bhainath Maharaj was also established, allowing devotees to pay homage to both spiritual masters. Today, this sacred site—where the Guru, Shri Siddharameshwar Maharaj and his four direct disciples (Shri Bhainath Maharaj, Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, Shri Kadsiddheshwar Maharaj and Shri Ranajit Maharaj) rest together—holds immense spiritual significance. It stands as a beacon of wisdom, inspiring countless seekers and transforming Banganga into a holy pilgrimage site.

Shree Nisargadatta Samadhi Charitable Trust has been established to preserve and sustain this sacred legacy for future generations. This trust is dedicated to upholding Maharaj’s teachings and ensuring the continued provision of spiritual guidance at this revered site. The trustees are committed to maintaining the spiritual tradition and heritage in an organized manner and extend a heartfelt invitation to all seekers and devotees to become part of this noble mission by enrolling as members.

Thank you!
With gratitude,

- Mrs. Anagha Dhotre-Kamat
President, Shree Nisargadatta Samadhi Charitable Trust