Ma Jaya has had many spiritual teachers over the years, but she is particularly close to two teachers, Ramana Maharshi and Shirdi Sai Baba. In her day to day teaching, Ma often refers to and quotes from these spiritual teachers or masters.

Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950)

Revered as one of the greatest spiritual teachers of modern-day India. At the age of 17, Ramana Maharshi had an experience of death, in which he realized that one's body dies, but the eternal stream of consciousness is not touched by this death.

This was a profound experience of the True Self, and notably occurred without the guidance and protection of a guru. He remained conscious of his identity with the Absolute at all times, and for the rest of his life. From this awareness, he taught his students to simply ask, "Who am I?"

For books about Ramana Maharshi and his teachings click here. To view websites about Ramana Maharshi click here and here.

Shirdi Sai Baba

Shirdi Sai Baba is worshiped and loved by millions of people in India and throughout the world. He taught tolerance and harmony between Hinduism and Islamic traditions, and in fact, it is not known whether Sai Baba was himself Hindu or Moslem. He often taught in simple parables and stories, using metaphor and paradox. He would sit by the side of the road and beg for one rupee. By this, he would teach individuals about generosity and stinginess. It is said that his presence conveyed a direct experience with the holy and sacred.

Shirdi Baba is remembered for promising his devotees that ... If you look on me, I will look on you. Shirdi Sai Baba left his body in approximately 1918.

For a book about Shirdi Baba's life, click here. To see websites about Shirdi Baba, click here and here.