Swami Muktananda, also known as Baba Muktananda, was a spiritual leader and guru of the Siddha Yoga tradition. He was born in 1908 in a small village in India and was given the name Krishna Rai. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in spirituality and spent much of his time meditating and studying scriptures.

At the age of 15, Krishna Rai met his guru, Bhagavan Nityananda, who would later become his spiritual mentor and guide. Under the guidance of Bhagavan Nityananda, Krishna Rai underwent intense spiritual practices and experienced profound spiritual awakening. He was given the name Swami Muktananda, which means "bliss of liberation," by his guru.

After the passing of Bhagavan Nityananda, Swami Muktananda continued his spiritual journey and eventually became a guru himself. He travelled extensively throughout India, spreading the teachings of Siddha Yoga and initiating disciples into the tradition. He also established ashrams and meditation centers, including the famous Gurudev Siddha Peeth in Ganeshpuri, India.

Swami Muktananda's teachings were based on the ancient tradition of Siddha Yoga, which emphasizes the path of self-realization through meditation, selfless service, and devotion. He encouraged his disciples to experience the inner state of bliss and to awaken their own inner guru.

One of the defining moments in Swami Muktananda's journey as a guru was his encounter with the American spiritual seeker, Ram Dass (formerly known as Richard Alpert). Ram Dass had travelled to India in search of spiritual guidance and was deeply moved by Swami Muktananda's teachings. He invited Swami Muktananda to the United States, where he gained a large following and established Siddha Yoga centers.

Swami Muktananda's teachings and presence had a profound impact on his disciples, who experienced spiritual transformation and inner awakening under his guidance. He was known for his charismatic personality, his unconditional love and compassion, and his ability to transmit spiritual energy to his disciples.

Swami Muktananda's legacy continues to live on through the Siddha Yoga tradition, which has a global following and continues to spread his teachings of self-realization and inner transformation. He is remembered as a beloved guru, whose teachings and presence continue to inspire and guide seekers on their spiritual journey towards self-discovery and inner peace.