Shri Ram Chandra of Fatehgarh, affectionately known as Lalaji, was the first Master of the Shri Ram Chandra Mission and rediscovered the ancient art of transmission. He belonged to a distinguished
family of landowners, originally from the district of Mainpuri in India. His father was a tax superintendent and his mother a devout woman who passed away when Lalaji was only seven years old, leaving upon him the imprint of her strong faith.

From childhood Lalaji was inclined towards God and also displayed a deep love and aptitude for music. He was educated by a private tutor and learned Hindi from his mother, receiving his later education at the Mission School in Farrukhabad. After his mother’s death, he was brought up by another

Shri Ram Chandraji of Fatehgarh, U.P.
(1873-1931)

lady with whom he shared a lifelong affection and regard.

Shortly after Lalaji’s marriage, his father died. Within a brief span of time, he also lost his elder adopted brother and all that remained of his family’s ancestral property. Accepting these misfortunes with grace and courage, he went on to work for one of his father’s associates in Fatehgarh.

It was Lalaji’s conviction that a normal family life was most conducive to self-development and that any sincere seeker could progress to the highest level of spiritual attainment while fulfilling the duties of a householder. He rediscovered and refined the ancient raja yoga method of pranahuti, whereby divine energy is transmitted by the Master into the heart of the aspirant in order to expedite his or her spiritual development. Thus the highest spiritual goal, previously reserved for ascetics and renunciates, was brought within the reach of all.

His personality, mode of living and general behaviour earned Lalaji the respect and affection of his neighbours. He was much loved by Hindus and Muslims alike, and though he loved his followers with all their faults, he was also a strict disciplinarian. In contrast to the practices of his time, he was very much against rituals and idol worship and in favour of the remarriage of widows as well as the education of women.

Display of any kind was repugnant to Lalaji, and he advised aspirants to stay away from powers until they reached their goal and discipline was perfected. He felt that every aspirant needed a spiritual Master, and that great care should be taken in selecting one. His doors were open to all, and he would frequently transmit to his followers until 2 o’clock in the morning. He regarded morality as essential to
Self-realisation and love as the greatest spiritual practice.

On August 14, 1931, Lalaji passed away, leaving Babuji to continue his work for the upliftment of humankind.

Sayings of Lalaji:

God has hidden himself inside your hearts and exposed you. Hide yourselves and expose God! This is the real sadhana (practice).

Afflictions are gifts from God. There are many secrets in them.

Never offer advice unless invited, otherwise it is likely to yield bad results. If you find fault with anybody pray for his freedom from it.