A global spiritual movement inspired by the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, dedicated to living in joy through meditation, yoga, and community.
Religion: Hinduism
Founder: J. Donald Walters (Swami Kriyananda)
Founded: 1968
Location: Nevada City, California, United States
Size: Several thousand members
Other Names: Ananda Sangha Worldwide
Website: ananda.org
The Ananda Church of Self-Realization is a worldwide spiritual movement that emerged from the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda, a pivotal figure in bringing the ancient practice of Kriya Yoga and other spiritual practices to the West. This movement was founded by Swami Kriyananda, originally named James Donald Walters, who was a direct disciple of Yogananda. After Yogananda’s passing, Kriyananda sought to fulfill his guru’s vision of establishing spiritual communities—referred to as “World Brotherhood Colonies”—where individuals could live and work together in a spiritual environment.
Swami Kriyananda, born in 1926, embarked on his spiritual journey after reading Yogananda’s “Autobiography of a Yogi,” which led him to become Yogananda’s disciple at the age of 22. His life thereafter was devoted to the teachings of his master, leading to the establishment of Ananda in 1968. Ananda distinguishes itself from the Self-Realization Fellowship, the organization founded by Yogananda, while sharing the common goal of disseminating his teachings. The primary difference lies in Kriyananda’s focus on community living as a path to spiritual development.
The Ananda movement has grown significantly since its inception, now boasting six communities in the United States, one in Europe, and over 45 teaching centers and 102 meditation groups globally. This expansion reflects the movement’s commitment to Yogananda’s teachings on meditation, Kriya Yoga, and living a spiritually oriented life.
Kriyananda was a prolific author, musician, and teacher, dedicating his life to spiritual service and the creation of a successful cooperative community, the Ananda World Brotherhood Village. Living in accordance with the principles of Kriya Yoga and Yogananda’s teachings, Ananda Church has about 3,000 members and over one hundred ordained ministers. The movement’s outreach is supported by publications such as the Clarity Newsletter and materials from Crystal Clarity Publishers.
Ananda’s teachings are made accessible through various means, including online courses, retreats, and in-person events aimed at spiritual growth and self-realization. Kriyananda’s role as a spiritual leader continued until his passing in 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy of teachings and a vibrant, living community that continues to inspire followers around the world.
image via Ananda
