Swami Kripalvananda, often affectionately called Bapuji, is no longer physically present, so discipleship now takes the form of inward devotion to him as guru combined with study under his living lineage-holders. His stream of Kriya-based practice flows primarily through the Kripalu tradition that arose from his disciple Amrit Desai, as well as ashrams and trusts that bear his name, particularly those associated with Gujarat in India. Centers such as the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health and the Amrit Yoga Institute transmit teachings rooted in his approach, even when the practices are presented under names like Kripalu Yoga or Amrit Yoga rather than explicitly as “Kriya Yoga.” Smaller Kripalvananda ashrams and devotional communities, in India and abroad, also preserve his emphasis on tapas, mantra, and pranic awakening, though they may be less visible and require more personal inquiry to locate.

Becoming a student in this tradition generally involves seeking out authorized teachers who clearly acknowledge Swami Kripalvananda as their root guru and who offer systematic instruction rather than casual, drop‑in classes. In many cases, this includes participation in retreats, workshops, or residential programs at established centers, where one can receive structured guidance in meditation, pranayama, and related yogic disciplines. A central element is formal initiation (diksha), especially mantra initiation, which traditionally marks entry into the inner current of his Kriya-based path and is given only by qualified teachers after some demonstration of sincerity and commitment. Without such living initiation, one may still be inspired by his life and teachings, but is not formally part of his Kriya lineage in the traditional sense.

At the same time, preparation for such a relationship does not depend solely on external circumstances. Immersion in his life story and translated writings, along with the works of his close disciples, helps clarify the distinctive flavor of his path: a blend of intense sadhana, devotion, ethical discipline, and openness to spontaneous inner kriyas arising from awakened prana. Foundational observances such as truthfulness, non‑violence, simplicity, sexual restraint appropriate to one’s station, and regular practice of meditation and japa create the inner soil in which his teachings can take root. Even before formal diksha, a modest daily rhythm of silent sitting, awareness of the breath, and repetition of a sacred mantra, held with humility and reverence, aligns the aspirant with the spirit of his Kriya. In this way, accepting Bapuji as guru in the heart while studying under his authentic successors becomes a coherent and respectful way of entering his living tradition.