In the sacred land of Bharat, Nabadwipa Dham stands as a revered holy site, marked by the footsteps of Sri Sri Gaurang Dev. Here, the legacy of Paramahansa Sri Sri Nigamananda Saraswati Deva began, born into a Brahmin family in Kutabpur, Nadiya district, in the year 1287 during Jhulana Purnima.
Nalinikanta (Nalini), as he was named after his sacred thread ceremony at age 11, exhibited deep devotion from a young age. His life took a pivotal turn when he experienced a divine vision of Goddess Bhagabati while lighting the evening lamps at a Devi temple. However, following the untimely demise of his mother, Smt. Manikya Sundari Devi, Nalinikanta struggled with his faith, leading him to 1287 question the existence of divine connections.
Determined to live a life of truth and integrity, he focused on character-building and benevolence. His early interests in community service and social reform were evident. At 17, he married Sudhanshubala (Sudha Devi), but tragedy struck when she passed away unexpectedly.
This loss propelled him into a quest for understanding death and the afterlife, leading him to explore theosophy and the teachings of Hindu yogis. After numerous trials, he met Sri Purnananda Swami, who guided him toward finding his Sadguru.
One fateful night, Nalinikanta received a one-lettered mantra from a divine figure in his dreams. This led him to a relentless search for knowledge, culminating in a profound encounter with Siddha Mahatma Bamakshepa at Tarapith. Under his guidance, Nalinikanta realized his spiritual potential and was renamed Nigamananda.
His quest continued as he traveled across India, seeking deeper truths and mastering yoga under the tutelage of Udasinacharya Sumeru Das Jee Maharaj.
Nigamananda's spiritual journey brought him to Kamakshya , where he attained Sabikalpa Samadhi . Despite his enlightenment, he felt incomplete until he received AbaraBrahma Gyana from Prema Siddha Gauri Maa, achieving the highest spiritual perfection.
Driven by a desire to share his knowledge, Nigamananda established the Shanti Dham in Kokilamukh, Assam, aiming to guide others from material pursuits to spiritual enlightenment. His teachings emphasized the importance of community, charity, and the pursuit of truth.
He published numerous sacred texts and initiated gatherings to promote true education and the propagation of Sanatan Dharma.
Nigamananda's influence spread across Bengal, Bihar, Assam, and beyond. He founded the Nilachala Saraswata Sangha in 1934 to unite devotees and propagate his spiritual ideals. His teachings and presence brought solace to countless followers.
He attained Maha Samadhi on the 29th Margasira Sukla Chaturthi in 1935, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His words resonate with wisdom: “Batsa! I am and will be forever.”
