Chinmoy

Chinmoy Kumar Ghose, known widely as Sri Chinmoy, was an Indian spiritual master, poet, artist, and athlete who lived from 1931 to 2007. He founded the Sri Chinmoy Centre in 1964 in New York City, which has since grown into an international organization with branches in over 150 countries.

Chinmoy's teachings focused on the concept of self-discovery and the realization of the divine within. He emphasized the importance of meditation, particularly the silent, seated meditation he called "heart-centered meditation," as a path to inner peace and spiritual growth. He also spoke of the "soul" as the eternal, divine aspect of a human being and believed that by connecting with the soul, individuals could transcend limitations and achieve their full potential.

His philosophy encouraged an active spiritual life, integrating spiritual principles into daily activities. Chinmoy was a prolific writer, publishing over 1,500 books of poetry, essays, and aphorisms. His artistic endeavors included painting, music, and even sculpting, which he saw as expressions of his inner vision.

Chinmoy was also known for his involvement in various humanitarian and peace initiatives. He initiated programs such as the "Peace Run" and "Peace Meditations" aimed at fostering global harmony and understanding. He often met with world leaders and encouraged them to seek inner strength and wisdom. His legacy continues through the activities of the Sri Chinmoy Centre, which offers free meditation classes and promotes his philosophy of self-transcendence and world-peace.