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Kripalu Maharaj

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Jagadguru Shri
Kripalu
Jī Maharaj
Photograph of Kripalu wearing an orange robe
Jagadguru Shrī Kripalu Ji Maharaj
Personal life
Born
Ram Kripalu Tripathi

(1922-10-05)5 October 1922[1]
Mangarh, Pratapgarh, United Provinces, British India (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India)[2]
Died15 November 2013(2013-11-15) (aged 91)[1]
New Delhi, Delhi, India
Home townKripalu Dham, Mangarh, Pratapgarh (present-day Uttar Pradesh, India) [3]
Notable work(s)
  • Prem Ras Siddhant
  • Prem Ras Madira
  • Shyama Shyam Geet
  • Radha Govind Geet
  • Braj Ras Madhuri Part 1-4
  • Yugal Shatak
  • Yugal Ras
  • Yugal Madhuri
  • Bhakti Shatak
  • Radha Trayodashi
  • Kripalu Trayodashi
Religious life
ReligionHinduism
Temple
Lineage
Religious career
Post
  • Shrimat Padavyakya Pramana Paravarina
  • Vedamarga-Pratisthapan Acharya
  • Nikhildarshan Samanvayacharya
  • Sanatana Vadic Dharma Pratishthapana Satsampradaya Paramacharya
  • Bhaktiyoogarasavatar
  • Bhafavadananta Shri Vibhushita Jagadguruttam
Period in office1957–2013
Sanskrit name
Sanskritकृपालु जी महाराज
WebsiteOfficial website
This article contains Indic text. Without proper rendering support, you may see question marks or boxes, misplaced vowels or missing conjuncts instead of Indic text.

Kripalu Ji Maharaj (IAST: Kṛpālu; 5 October 1922 – 15 November 2013)[4][5] was an Indian spiritual guru.[6] He was the founder of Prem Mandir in Vrindavan, one of the ten largest Hindu temples in the world. He was also the founder of Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP), a worldwide Hindu non-profit organization with five main ashrams,[7] four in India and one in the United States.[8][9]

On Makar Sankranti, 14 January 1957,[10][11] he received the title of Jagadguru (world teacher) from Kashi Vidvat Parishat.[6][12][13]

His book Prem Ras Siddhant contains his teachings called Jagadguru Kripalu Bhaktiyoga Tattvadarshan. It expounds "the philosophy of divine love" and the practical path to God realization.

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj was born on 5 October 1922 in the village of Kripalu Dham, Mangarh, Pratapgarh district, Uttar Pradesh.[14] His mother was Bhagwati Devi and his father was Lalta Prasad Tripathi, a Brahmin.

Jagadguru philosophy and title

Jagadguru Kripalu Bhaktiyog Tattvadarshan

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji’s spiritual philosophy known as “Jagadguru Kripalu Bhaktiyoga Tattvadarshan” posits that the soul’s true goal is eternal divine bliss, found not in material objects, but only in God.[15] Since the soul is a part of God, it naturally seeks Him. This bliss is attained through God's grace, received by the complete sharanagati (surrender) of the mind. [16][17]

Detachment from the material world, through understanding its impermanence, is key. As propagated by the saints of bhakti movement, the path of bhakti (devotion) — selfless love for Radha Krishna — is preferred over karma (action) and gyan (knowledge) as it’s the most direct. It automatically brings divine knowledge and detachment.[18] Bhaktiyog, involves loving remembrance of God (Roopdhyan meditation), even during daily duties (karmayog). A true saint’s (Guru) guidance and avoiding bad company (kusang) are essential to advance through this path.[19]

Jagadguru title

Receiving the title of Jagadguru from the scholars of Kashi Vidvat Parishad (the distinguished and exclusive organization of 500 Vedic scholars) (false colour)

In 1955, Jagadguru Kripalu Ji organized a religious convention for spiritual leaders in India.[20] Mahamahopadhyay Giridhar Sharma, President of the Kashi Vidvat Parishat, attended the convention and was impressed by Kripalu's scriptural knowledge.[20][21] In 1957, Kripalu Ji was invited to lecture for ten days on scripture philosophy at the Kashi Vidvat Parishat, a group of 500 scholars of Vedic literature.[20]

The congregation had scholars from Varanasi and other parts of India.[20] Shri Maharaj Ji lectured for seven days about the Hindu scriptures. On 14 January 1957 the scholars honoured him with Jagadguru title.[22][20][23] He was 34 years old when given the title,[11][10][23][24] the fifth person ever to receive it.[6][11] The Kashi Vidvat Parishat also conferred on him the titles Bhaktiyog-Ras-Avtar and Jagadguruttam,[25] as well as the title Samanvaya-Acharya: he who analyses and reconciles the meaning of all the scriptures, the six philosophies and the teachings of other previous Jagadgurus.

Life after becoming Jagadguru

After accepting the title of Jagadguru, Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj traveled throughout India for around 14 years between 1957 and 1971. He delivered month-long discourses in various cities, lecturing to tens of thousands of people.[citation needed]

In 1970, he established Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat (JKP), a charitable religious organization, to disseminate his teachings throughout the world.[26]

Shri Kripalu ji Maharaj composed thousands of bhajans and kirtans, including Prem Ras Madira, a collection of 1008 devotional songs. His book on philosophy, Prem Ras Siddhant, discusses the ultimate aim of the individual soul, the importance of attaining divine grace, and the indispensability of surrendering to a Saint. Shri Maharaj Ji's bhajan books include Braj Ras Madhuri, Yugal Madhuri, Yugal Shatak, Bhakti Shatak, Yugal Ras, Shyama Shyam Geet, Radha Govind Geet, Krishna Dwadashi and Radha Trayodashi.[27]

During his lifetime, he personally trained more than 50 Pracharaks, male and female monastic disciples. They continue to travel in India and around the world as his ordained representatives, spreading his teachings.

Temples

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji established three significant temples which serve as centers for bhakti, spirituality, and charitable activities.

Prem Mandir, Vrindavan

Established on the sacred land of Vrindavan, Prem Mandir is among the biggest and most popular Hindu temples in India.[28] It witnesses a high footfall of devotees, with lakhs of visitors each day. Known for its white Italian carrara marble construction and intricate carvings, the temple is a prominent site for religious gatherings, devotional activities and a evening light and sound show. It makes news for its celebration of major festivals such as Krishna Janmashtami.[29][30] [31]

Bhakti Mandir, Mangarh

Bhakti Mandir is located at the birthplace of Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj, in Shri Kripalu Dham near Prayagraj. It was inaugurated in 2005 and is dedicated to Radha-Krishna and Sita-Ram. Constructed using pink sandstone, white marble, and black granite, the temple sees a surge in visitors on Hindu festivals such as Diwali and Guru Purnima. Bhakti Mandir is managed by Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat.[32][33][34][35]

Kirti Mandir, Barsana

Kirti Mandir is situated in Barsana, the birthplace of Radha rani. It is notable for being the only temple in the world dedicated to Kirti Maiya, Goddess Radha’s mother. A unique idol of baby Radha in her mother’s lap is the central attraction of the temple. Lakhs of devotees visit Kirti Mandir around Radhashtami, the birth anniversary of Radha rani. Alongside religious functions, the temple includes a charitable hospital and serves as a site for social welfare activities.[36][37][38][39]

TV appearances

Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj's discourses are broadcast daily on several religious TV channels, including DD India, Aastha TV, Sadhna TV, IBN 7, News24 and Sanskar TV.[40][41] In the United States, his discourses are also broadcast everyday on TV Asia.[42]

Works

Philosophical books

  • Prem Rasa Siddhant (ISBN 978-93-80661-35-3) – 'Prem Ras Siddhant' or 'The Philosophy of Divine Love', a popular book written by Shri Maharaj Ji contains the gist of all the teachings of our scriptures.The philosophy of Divine love [43] was first published (in Hindi) in 1955.[20] It was later published in several other Indian languages.
  • Bhakti Shatak (ISBN 978-93-80661-26-1) – The concise philosophy of the Upaniṣats, Gītā, Brahma sūtras and the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam.[10]
  • Radha Govind Geet (ISBN 978-81-90966-16-0) – Printed in two volumes, with 11,111 couplets of Radha Krishna leelas and the devotional philosophy.[44]
  • Ras Panchadhyayi (ISBN 978-93-80661-15-5) – A series of discourses on the esoteric subject of Raas Leela.[45]

Kirtans

Renditions of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj's bhajans and kirtans have been recorded by singers such as Manna Dey[46] and Anuradha Paudwal. Anup Jalota,[47]

Women's Education

Jagadguru Kripalu Ji Maharaj established charitable educational institutions to encourage the education of girls. Kripalu Balika Primary School, Kripalu Balika Intermediate College and Kripalu Mahila Mahavidyalaya (degree college) are located in Kunda, Pratapgarh district, Uttar Pradesh, India. These institutions empower girls from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds by offering free, high-quality education.[48]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Radha Madhav Society, US". RMS, US. Radha Madhav Society.
  2. ^ "मनगढ़ का नाम बदला, अब "कृपालु धाम मनगढ़"".
  3. ^ "Pratapgarh News: कुंडा के मनगढ़ गांव का नाम बदला, नया नाम कृपालु धाम मनगढ़ | Pratapgarh Mangarh village name changed now Kripalu Dham Mangarh". 24 May 2023.
  4. ^ "Spiritual Guru Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj passes away". Zee News. 15 November 2013. Retrieved 25 November 2013.
  5. ^ "कृपालु महराज के निधन पर शोक में डूबा उत्तराखंड". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 24 June 2024.
  6. ^ a b c Singh, Khushwant (28 January 2007). "Varanasi seer's memory is phenomenal". The Tribune. Tribune India. Retrieved 1 June 2015.
  7. ^ Walker, J.K. 2007. The Concise Guide to Today's Religions and Spirituality. Harvest House Publishers.
  8. ^ "कृपालु महाराज ने न किसी को गुरु बनाया, न चेला". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 24 June 2024.
  9. ^ "Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj passes away". India Today. 15 November 2013. Retrieved 24 June 2024.
  10. ^ a b c Melton, J. Gordon (2003). The Encyclopedia of American Religions. Gale. ISBN 978-0-7876-9696-2.
  11. ^ a b c "जगद्गुरु कृपालु के जयकारों से गूंजा वृंदावन". jagran. Retrieved 19 January 2017.
  12. ^ "Spiritual Guru Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj passes away". The Indian Express. 15 November 2013. Retrieved 24 June 2024.
  13. ^ "जानिए जगद्गुरु श्री कृपालु जी महाराज के बारे में, जिन्होंने कराया भव्य 'प्रेम मंदिर' का निर्माण". www.abplive.com (in Hindi). 13 August 2023. Retrieved 24 June 2024.
  14. ^ "UP: सीएम योगी ने राजा भैया के विधानसभा क्षेत्र के एक गांव का बदला नाम, मनगढ़ से किया कृपालु... | News Track in Hindi". 24 May 2023.
  15. ^ "Understanding Jagadguru Tradition: 5 Authentic Jagadgurus of The World". Mid-day. 17 April 2025. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  16. ^ Hindi, Bhaskar (1 February 2025). "मेरा 40 वर्षों का सफर: जिज्ञासा से भक्ति तक | My journey of 40 years: from curiosity to devotion". www.bhaskarhindi.com (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  17. ^ Khanam, Zainab. "Jagadguru Kripalu Bhaktiyoga Tattvadarshan: The Practical Path To Divine Bliss News24 -". News24. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  18. ^ Hindi, Bhaskar (1 February 2025). "मेरा 40 वर्षों का सफर: जिज्ञासा से भक्ति तक | My journey of 40 years: from curiosity to devotion". www.bhaskarhindi.com (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  19. ^ Hindi, Bhaskar (21 November 2024). "रूपध्यान: जानें मेडिटेशन का सबसे असरदार तरीका | Roopdhyan: Learn the most effective method of meditation". www.bhaskarhindi.com (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  20. ^ a b c d e f g Saraswati, Prakashanand (2007). The True History and Religion Of India: A Concise Encyclopedia of Authentic Hinduism (First ed.). New Delhi: Macmillan Publishers. ISBN 978-0230630659. Retrieved 28 April 2016.
  21. ^ "A Wisdom Archive on Jagadguru Kripaluji Maharaj". Archived from the original on 18 October 2012. Retrieved 14 December 2011.
  22. ^ "Kirti Mandir in Barsana Opens in a Grand and Historical Opening Ceremony". Business Standard India. Press Trust of India. 11 February 2019. Retrieved 3 June 2020.
  23. ^ a b Singh, Khushwant (29 January 2007). "Without people or drink". Opinion. The Telegraph. Archived from the original on 22 October 2011. Retrieved 9 June 2015.
  24. ^ The Meaning of Makar Sankranti and Jagadguru Divas Archived 16 March 2012 at the Wayback Machine. 14 January 2011. Retrieved 16 December 2011.
  25. ^ Pandey, V.K. 2007. Encyclopaedia of Indian philosophy – Part 1. Delhi: Anmol Publications
  26. ^ "Prime Minister Narendra Modi sends his congratulations to Jagadguru Kripalu Parishat on the auspicious occasion of the 100th Birth Anniversary of Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj | Entertainment".
  27. ^ "Spiritual guru Kripalu Maharaj's last rites performed". Business-standard. 18 November 2013.
  28. ^ "List Of Top 10 Largest Hindu Temples In The World: Akshardham Temple To Angkor Wat That Showcase Grandeur Of Hinduism". www.thedailyjagran.com. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  29. ^ Shah, Arti ShahArti. "Prem Mandir". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  30. ^ "5 must-visit iconic temples in Vrindavan: A spiritual journey". The Times of India. 13 May 2025. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  31. ^ "5 interesting facts about Vrindavan's Prem Mandir". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  32. ^ "भक्ति मंदिर में शरद पूर्णिमा का भव्य उत्सव: भक्ति, आनंद और आध्यात्मिक जागृति का अद्वितीय संगम". outlookhindi.com. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  33. ^ "प्रतापगढ़ का भक्तिधाम मनगढ़...यहां श्रीकृष्‍ण की भक्ति में रम जाते हैं भक्‍त, कृपालु जी महाराज ने बनवाया - Unique specimen of architecture is Bhaktidham Mangarh temple of Kunda in Pratapgarh which was built by Kripalu Ji Maharaj". Jagran (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  34. ^ "भारत में है विश्व का 'इकलौता मंदिर' जो ग्रेनाइट के पिलर पर है खड़ा, 100 देशों के भक्तों की है गहरी आस्था". News18 हिंदी (in Hindi). 10 March 2023. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  35. ^ "आप भी जानिए, ग्रेनाइट पिलर्स पर खड़ा विश्व का पहला मंदिर है प्रतापगढ़ स्थित भक्तिधाम मनगढ़ - Bhaktidham Mangadh situated in Pratapgarh is the world first temple standing on granite pillars". Jagran (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  36. ^ "कीर्ति मंदिर दुनिया का इकलौता मंदिर जहां मां की गोद में सो रही हैं राधारानी, आप भी कर आएं दर्शन". Navbharat Times (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  37. ^ "Kirti Mandir: Where even the wind whispers 'Radhe Radhe'". The Times of India. 25 May 2025. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  38. ^ "राधाष्टमी पर बरसाना जाएं तो इनका दर्शन करना न भूलें, देवी राधा की होगी परम कृपा". Navbharat Times (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  39. ^ "यहां बनकर तैयार हुआ राधारानी की मां कीर्ति का पहला मंदिर, भव्यता देख भक्त हो रहे भाव विभोर". Amar Ujala (in Hindi). Retrieved 6 June 2025.
  40. ^ Csordas, Thomas J. (2009). Transnational Transcendence: Essays on Religion and Globalization (illustrated ed.). University of California Press. p. 287. ISBN 9780520257429. Retrieved 30 October 2016.
  41. ^ "Teachings". Archived from the original on 23 January 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2015.
  42. ^ "Jagadguru Kripalu Maharaj on TV Asia". Archived from the original on 2 September 2015. Retrieved 9 October 2015.
  43. ^ Prem Rasa Siddhant (ISBN 1-881921-08-5) lth 5 & 6, le "Kripalu ji Maharaj". Archived from the original on 8 August 2017. Retrieved 1 June 2015.
  44. ^ "Radha Govind Geet". Retrieved 29 January 2016.
  45. ^ "Raas Panchadhyayi". Archived from the original on 5 April 2017. Retrieved 26 May 2016.
  46. ^ Kinnear, M. 1985. A discography of Hindustani and Karnatic music. Greenwood Press.
  47. ^ Rang De with Anup Jalota at Radha Madhav Dham, Austin Archived 5 April 2016 at the Wayback Machine. 20 October 2011. Indo-American News. Retrieved 15 December 2011.
  48. ^ "नई दिल्ली: महिला सशक्तिकरण की बात सब करते हैं, डॉ. विशाखा त्रिपाठी ने उसे कर के दिखाया". firstindianews.com. Retrieved 29 May 2025.
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