Disciples

Late Shri V S Page

Shri V. S. Page, an esteemed high-profile politician, a staunch Gandhian, and a devoted patriot, was an authority on Shri Dnyaneshwari, the revered work of the 13th-century Maharashtrian saint, Shri Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. Following the instructions of Shri Maharaj, Shri Page would summarize his teachings in English during functions, benefiting non-Marathi-speaking and foreign followers attending festival celebrations. Deeply inspired by Shree Maharaj’s teachings, Page Saheb wrote a Marathi play, which was later staged.

Late Shri Maurice Frydman

An electrical engineer by profession, Mr. Maurice Frydman arrived in India in the late 1930s and developed a deep interest in Hindu philosophy. While in India, he became a disciple of Mahatma Gandhi and also lived in his ashram. During his extended stay, he had the opportunity to meet Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, J. Krishnamurti, and later, Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in Mumbai. His most significant contribution to the spiritual world was the compilation of the globally renowned book “I Am That”, based on the teachings of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj.

Late Shri Shrikant Gogate (Malvan)

An ardent reader of Bengali literature, Shri Shrikant Gogate had a particular fondness for the poetry of Rabindranath Tagore. While working in the P&T Department, he settled in Malvan, where he learned about Shri Maharaj through acquaintances and was initiated by him in 1962. Soon, he became a devoted seeker, deeply influenced by Shri Maharaj’s teachings on Self-Knowledge. Following the command of his Sadguru, he dedicated himself to long meditation sessions, seeking the Guru’s grace through unwavering sadhana and conviction. Perhaps, he was the only disciple granted permission to stay at Nisargadatta Ashram whenever he visited Mumbai. He was also fortunate to attend late-night discussions between Shri Maharaj and Shri Bhainath Maharaj on Girgaon Beach.

Entrusted by Shree Maharaj with the task of translating I Am That into Marathi, he successfully completed it as Sukha-Samvad. In addition, he authored several books on Shree Maharaj and composed numerous devotional works under the pen name Gurudasa.

Nana & Tatya

The late Dhotre brothers—elder brother Nana and younger brother Tatya—were deeply connected to Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj. Nana, who served as Under Secretary in Mantralaya, was also the son-in-law of Shri Bhainath Maharaj. He was initiated by Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in 1953.

Tatya, the younger brother, was one of Shree Maharaj’s closest aides. During spiritual tours, Shree Maharaj relied entirely on him. New disciples found comfort in Tatya’s warm and approachable nature, as he readily provided guidance and assisted hosts in preparing for Shree Maharaj’s visits. His unwavering devotion made him inseparable from Shree Maharaj, moving like his shadow. Due to his naturally high-pitched voice, he was often entrusted with reading Dasbodha during Shree Maharaj’s discourses.

Late Smt Sunanda Dhotre

Smt. Sunanda Dhotre, the elder daughter of Shri Bhainath Maharaj, was initiated by Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivaratri in 1952. Blessed with a deep spiritual inclination from a young age, she had the rare privilege, as a child, of joining disciples in offering a sacred bath to Sadguru Shri Siddharameshwar Maharaj on the first day of the Diwali festival in Mumbai. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to the path of Self-Knowledge, carrying forward the spiritual legacy of her father and Sadguru. Her unwavering devotion and commitment to Shree Maharaj’s teachings made her an inspiration for many seekers on the path.

Late Shri Hareshwar Joshi

An ardent disciple of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, Shri Hareshwar Joshi was initiated in 1958. Deeply devoted to the Inchegiri tradition, he immersed himself in sadhana and the teachings of Self-Knowledge. Over the years, he played a vital role in preserving and sharing the wisdom imparted by Shree Maharaj. He was known for his unwavering faith, disciplined practice, and commitment to guiding fellow seekers. His contributions to spreading the Jnana Marga made him a respected figure among disciples of Shree Maharaj.

Late Shri Ramakant Sawant (Sadguru Shri Ramakant Maharaj, Nashik)

A banker by profession, Shri Ramakant Maharaj was initiated by Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in 1962 and became a devoted follower of the Inchegiri tradition. Immersed in sadhana and the teachings of Self-Knowledge, he remained steadfast in spreading his Sadguru’s wisdom.

In 2000, Sadguru Ranjit Maharaj entrusted him with the responsibility of carrying forward the Sampradayik spiritual work and initiating seekers. Accepting Sadgurupada, he dedicated himself to extending the reach of the Inchegiri teachings beyond India. Having spent nearly two decades in the direct presence of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj, he deeply absorbed the essence of Jnana Marga and shared it with seekers worldwide. His book, Selfless Self, remains a valuable guide for spiritual aspirants. Through his unwavering dedication, Shri Ramakant Maharaj ensured that the light of Self-Knowledge continued to shine for generations to come.

Smt Vanaja Narayanaswami

A Head of the Mathematics Department by profession, she first learned about Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in 1978 through an article in Mountain Path, the house magazine of Ramanashram, shown to her by her American friend, Jean Dunn. Deeply drawn to his teachings, she regularly attended Shree Maharaj’s morning sessions alongside foreign seekers, gaining immense spiritual benefit. She was among the fortunate few who were present at his bedside during his Mahanirvana. Her deep understanding of his teachings made her a valuable contributor to several books that documented and preserved Shree Maharaj’s wisdom.

Late Shri P S Dhamne

Retired as the Charity Commissioner of Mumbai, Shri Dhamnesaheb successfully shouldered responsibility as the first President of Nisargadatta Adhytama Kendra, a spiritual Trust established by the devotees in 1976.

Late Shri M D Hate

A banker and skilled organizer, Shri Hate later became the son-in-law of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj. He played a pivotal role in spreading Shri Maharaj’s spiritual teachings and was the principal force behind the establishment of Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra to further this mission. A talented musician, he had a deep passion for playing instruments like the tabla and harmonium. His musical contributions added a special vibrancy to bhajan sessions, especially during festival celebrations, bringing immense joy to fellow devotees.

Late Shri V G (Bapusaheb)Prabhugaonkar

Elected as an MLA from the Konkan region and later appointed as a minister in the Maharashtra government, Shri V.G.(Bapusaheb) Prabhugaonkar was a lifelong student of Indian philosophy. He regularly attended the lectures of J. Krishnamurti, deepening his understanding of spiritual thought. In 1962, he encountered Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in Mumbai and was subsequently initiated by him. Deeply devoted to his Sadguru, he played a key role in preserving and promoting Shree Maharaj’s teachings. As one of the founding trustees of Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra, he contributed significantly to its establishment and growth.

Late Shri Muraharipattam

A well-known figure in various video clips and old photographs of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, Shri Muraripattam played a crucial role as an interpreter during Shree Maharaj’s Satsangs. His presence was integral to the dissemination of Self-Knowledge teachings, especially among foreign seekers. It was a remarkable experience to witness—Shre Maharaj expounding in Marathi, and Shri Muraripattam, like a finely tuned instrument, instantly delivering precise and fluent English interpretations. His skilful translations ensured that the wisdom of Shree Maharaj reached a global audience with clarity and depth.

Jean Dunn

American author Jean Dunn, who spent several years at Ramanashram in Tiruvannamalai, first learned about Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj around 1978. Deeply drawn to his teachings, she became a regular visitor to Nisargadattashram, immersing herself in Self-Knowledge. Based on Shree Maharaj’s wisdom, she compiled and published two books—Prior to Consciousness and Seeds of Consciousness. Before going to print, these works were presented to Shree Maharaj for his approval. Today, they stand alongside I AM THAT as essential spiritual texts, widely revered in the realm of non-dual wisdom.

Late Shri Ramesh Balsekar

After reading an article on I AM THAT in Mountain Path, the magazine of Ramanashram, Shri Ramesh S. Balsekar was inspired to meet Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in Mumbai in 1978. Deeply moved by his teachings, he remained a devoted disciple until Shree Maharaj’s Mahanirvana.

Following his Sadguru’s passing, Shri Balsekar embraced the role of an Advaita teacher while also pursuing his passion for physical culturist. Influenced by the teachings of both Sri Ramana Maharshi and Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, he went on to author several renowned books, including Pointers from Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, which continues to be a valuable resource for seekers of Advaita Vedanta.

Late Shri Anna Sarak & Late Shri Hira Annar

Visitors were well acquainted with these two familiar faces, both known by the common name ‘Anna’. Completely devoted to Shree Maharaj, they dedicated their lives to his service, always attending to his needs and escorting him wherever he went.

Late Shri Baburao Jagtap, Nashik

In August 1967, Shri Baburao Jagtap was initiated by Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj at Nisargadattashram, marking the beginning of a transformative spiritual journey filled with profound realizations. In January 1979, during a visit to the residence of Shri Phadol in Nashik, Shree Maharaj also visited the nearby fields owned by Shri Jagtap. At that moment, he made a significant prophecy: "A great spiritual work will emerge from this very place in the future. Remember this day and date." True to his words, this very site later became home to the spacious Nisargadattashram Nashik, a revered center dedicated to Self-Knowledge. Notably, Shree Maharaj’s Guru bandhu, Sadguru Shri Ranjit Maharaj, and later his disciple, Sadguru Shri Ramakant Maharaj, played a crucial role in spreading the Sampradayik teachings—not just in India, but across the world.

Late Shri Mamletdar Chavan Saheb (Dapoli)

Despite holding a high-ranking administrative position in the government, Shri Chavan Saheb was a deeply devoted disciple of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj. His most significant contribution was compiling a book based on Shree Maharaj’s discourses on Adi Shankaracharya’s Sadachar, preserving these teachings for future generations. After Shree Maharaj’s Mahanirvana, Shri Chavan Saheb established a Samadhi Mandir at his native place, Gimhavane in Dapoli, District Raigad, Maharashtra. This sacred site continues to serve as a spiritual refuge for numerous devotees in and around the region.

Khot Brothers(Malvan)

Shri Jayprakash Khot and his brother, Dr. Sanjay Khot, both devoted disciples of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, played a significant role in preserving and spreading his teachings. They constructed the Nisargadatta Maharaj Bhakti Gyan Kendra in Kandalgaon, Malvan, near the ancestral residence of Shree Maharaj.This spiritual centre has become a sacred space for devotees, offering a new hub of devotion and learning for seekers in the Konkan region.

Late Shri V S alias Bhau Shetye

At 93 years old Shri Bhau Shetye was one of the senior-most disciples of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj. He held the distinction of being the only surviving Founder Trustee of Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra , till recently till he died on September 2025. He g played a pivotal role in its establishment and growth of Adhyamta kendra Dahisar.

Mrs and Mr Gaitonde

Deeply impressed by the teachings of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, the Gaitonde couple were regular visitors to Nisargadattashram, especially during the morning and evening sessions attended by seekers from around the world. They played a crucial role as interpreters, helping bridge the language gap between Shree Maharaj and his foreign disciples.In addition to their dedicated service, Shri Gaitonde also contributed to the preservation of Maharaj’s wisdom by publishing a few books based on his discourses.

(Late) Smt Chhaya and Shri Bhalchandra Shetye

Smt. Chhayatai Shetye and Shri Bhalachandra Shetye were initiated by Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in 1958. Soon after their initiation, the couple expressed their heartfelt desire for Shree Maharaj to perform Sadguru Puja in their home. To their immense joy and surprise, Shree Maharaj graciously fulfilled their request, blessing their household with his divine presence.

Dr. B G Chavan

After the Mahanirvana of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj, there arose a pressing need to establish a dedicated space for Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra. The credit for making this vision a reality goes to Dr. Chavan, whose tireless efforts and unwavering commitment ensured that the Adhyatma Kendra secured its own premises at Dahisar, Nisarga Society, Mumbai.

Shri Vijay Sawant

Senior Gurubandhu Shri Vijaydada Sawant has been diligently managing the Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra, Dahisar as the Hon. Secretary for several years. Under his capable leadership, the Kendra has flourished as a centre of spiritual learning and devotion. With unwavering dedication, Shri Sawant has ensured that Sampradayik festivals are celebrated on a grand scale, fostering a deep sense of community among devotees. Through his insightful discourses, he continues to propagate the teachings of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, guiding seekers on the path of Jnana and Self-Realization.

Late Shri Satish Awhad

A senior disciple of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj, Shri Satish Awhad has done a remarkable job by undertaking reprinting of many Books which were published years ago and were out of stock for the readers. That was a tremendous service he did for the Sampradaya.

Smt Kamlaben Lund,Pune

An ardent disciple, Smt. Kamlaben Lund first met Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj in 1978 in Mumbai. Deeply devoted to his teachings, she, along with her late husband Shri Lund, actively participated in preserving and spreading Maharaj's wisdom. Shri Lund meticulously recorded Shree Maharaj’s morning and evening discussions, which later culminated in the publication of the book "I AM Unborn" (Talks with Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj)—a valuable resource for seekers of Self-Knowledge. Even after her husband's passing, Smt. Kamlaben Lund continues to extend her active support and guidance for various projects related to Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj's Samadhi and other spiritual centres, ensuring the ongoing preservation and expansion of his teachings.

Late Shri Uday Naik

The Naik Family was well-known in Nisargadattashram, with brothers Uday and Tushar regularly attending to its upkeep. Uday, a highly educated and deeply analytical seeker, had a profound understanding of Maharaj’s teachings. Despite battling a prolonged illness, he left behind a valuable legacy—an English translation of Granthraj Shri Dasbodha—before his recent passing.

Shri Dinkar Kshirsagar

Shri Dinkar Kshirsagar is among the few disciples of Shree Maharaj who has deeply studied not only Maharaj’s teachings but also those of Bhagwan Sri Ramana Maharshi and J. Krishnamurti. His pivotal role in publishing several books on Maharaj’s teachings has been invaluable. Many seekers turn to him for a deeper understanding of the intrinsic wisdom of Self-Knowledge.

Prabhakar Nandoskar | Late Shri Pandit kaka | Late Shri Tawde

After the Mahanirvana of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj, his revered Gurubandhu, Sadguru Shri Ranjit Maharaj, took on the responsibility of guiding disciples and seekers. Following Shri Ranjit Maharaj’s Mahanirvana in 2000, a profound void was felt among seekers. During this time, Shri Panditkaka, Shri Tawade, and Shri Raghunath Chaowkekar, ShrinSatish Avhad and few others played a crucial role in simplifying and explaining the Self-Knowledge Teachings of Shri Maharaj, ensuring that his wisdom continued to illuminate the path for sincere aspirants.

Late Shri Munna Prasade

Shri Prasade was known for his frank and fearless nature, with a strong determination to expose false Babas and Sadhus. He actively sought out such individuals to unveil their true nature. However, during his first visit to Nisargadattashram, he recognized a truly realized saint in the form of Shree Nisargadatta Maharaj. Apart from his deep devotion, he was also skilled in clay moulding and created beautiful busts of Shri Maharaj, one of which is still preserved at the Dahisar Kendra.

Late Shri Suresh Chube

Shri Sureshchandra Chube, a senior disciple of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj, was initiated in 1965. His father-in-law owned the printing press where the first-ever book of Nisargadattashram, Bhakti-Dnyan-Pradip, was printed. Shri Chube continued his dedicated service by reprinting few books for Nisargadatta Adhyatma Kendra, ensuring the teachings of Maharaj remained accessible to seekers.

Late Shri Pundalik Lad

A senior disciple, Shri Pundalik Lad was a regular presence at the Ashram, always seen with a warm smile. He played the harmonium during evening prayers, adding to the devotional atmosphere. His daughter, Lalita, and son Shashank continues his legacy in actively organizing Sampradayik festivals at Banganga Samadhi Sthan

Mudaye Brothers (Shri Prakash and Shri Nandu)

The Mudaye Brothers, nephews of Shree Maharaj, are not only family but also ardent disciples devoted to his teachings. After Maharaj’s Mahanirvana, Prakash Mudaye composed a poetic homage, which devotees sing every year on his anniversary. Fondly known as Nandu, he is the default choice for reading Dasbodha during festival celebrations.

Anvita Ramakant Sawant

Sadguru Shri Ramakant Mahraj under the guidance of Sadguru Ranajit Maharaj founded Ranjitashram at Nashik Jagtap Mala. He continued to spread Sampradaya Teachings through this Ashram till his end. Since then the work of the Ashram is looked after ably by his spouse Anvita Tai who herself is a senior disciple of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj.

Sadguru Sahajdatta maharaj

Shri Satam is a senior disciple of Shri Nisargadatta Maharaj. He got inspiration from within that the spiritual work of his revered Sadguru should be carried on further,r he stepped into the role of Sadguru. He bestowed himself new name ‘Sahajadatta’ and is engaged fully in the spread of Nisargadatta Teachings on Self-knowledge. The Adhytama Kendra has recently published a book “Geet Nisargadatta” composed by him.