The Inspirational Ananta Dās Bābājī: Excerpts from My Diary

Abstract

The article "The Inspirational Ananta Dās Bābājī: Excerpts From My Diary" by Advaita Dās offers an intimate glimpse into the life and teachings of Ananta Dās Bābājī (1925–2018), a revered mahānt of Rādhā-kuṇḍa and a prominent teacher within the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition. Through diary excerpts, the author chronicles Bābājī's journey from a young scholar, born Amulya Ratan Singh, to a deeply renounced spiritual master known for his vast scriptural knowledge, particularly of the Bhāgavata Purāṇa, and his profound understanding of Rāga-mārga and Mañjarī-bhāva. The abstract highlights Bābājī's dedication to service, his rigorous daily spiritual practices, his prolific literary contributions as an author and commentator, and his leadership in establishing educational and community initiatives. It also portrays his humility, his ability to attract thousands of disciples from diverse backgrounds, and his enduring impact as a guide for serious practitioners of devotion (bhakti).