Early Life and Family Background
Jaggi Vasudev, popularly known as Sadhguru, was born on September 3, 1957, in Mysuru, Karnataka, India, into a Telugu-speaking family. He was the youngest of five children born to Susheela Vasudev and Dr. B.V. Vasudev, an ophthalmologist at the Mysuru Railway Hospital. Growing up in a middle-class family, Sadhguru exhibited a curious and adventurous spirit from a young age. His early years were marked by a deep fascination with nature, spirituality, and the mysteries of life.
In 1984, Sadhguru married Vijikumari, and the couple had a daughter named Radhe. Tragically, Vijikumari passed away in January 1997. Radhe, their daughter, later married Indian classical vocalist Sandeep Narayan in 2014.
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Education and Early Career
Sadhguru completed his formal education in Mysuru and went on to study English literature at the University of Mysore. After graduating, he ventured into entrepreneurship, starting a poultry farm in Mysore. The business required minimal attention, allowing him to pursue his passion for poetry and literature. However, his family disapproved of his involvement in the poultry industry, which led him to explore other ventures.
He later joined Buildaids, a construction company, where he gained experience in the industry. Despite his success in business, Sadhguru felt a deep void within him, which eventually led him to seek a higher purpose in life.
Spiritual Awakening and Founding of Isha Foundation
Sadhguru’s life took a transformative turn when he experienced a profound spiritual awakening at the age of 25. On September 23, 1982, he climbed the Chamundi Hills in Mysuru and sat on a rock, where he underwent a life-altering experience. This moment marked the beginning of his spiritual journey.
In 1983, Sadhguru conducted his first yoga class in Mysuru, sharing his insights and techniques with a small group of people. Over the years, his teachings gained popularity, and he began traveling across India to spread his message of inner well-being and self-transformation.
In 1992, Sadhguru founded the Isha Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting yoga, spirituality, and humanitarian activities. The foundation operates an ashram and yoga center in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, which has become a hub for spiritual seekers worldwide. The Isha Foundation offers various programs, including Inner Engineering, a flagship course designed to help individuals achieve mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Contributions to Spirituality and Humanity
Sadhguru is a prolific author, with his book “Inner Engineering: A Yogi’s Guide to Joy” becoming an international bestseller. The book provides practical tools and insights for achieving inner peace and balance.
Beyond spirituality, Sadhguru is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. He has spearheaded several initiatives to address ecological challenges:
- Rally for Rivers: A nationwide campaign to revive India’s depleting rivers.
- Cauvery Calling: An initiative to support farmers in planting trees and revitalize the Cauvery River.
- Project GreenHands (PGH): A massive tree-planting drive to combat deforestation and climate change.
For his exceptional contributions to spirituality and humanitarian services, Sadhguru was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in 2017.
Personal Interests and Lifestyle
Sadhguru is known for his dynamic and multifaceted personality. He is an avid motorcyclist and is often seen riding bikes like the Ducati Multistrada 1260 and Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled. He also drives cars such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class G 63 AMG and the 1000PS Toyota Scion, though he does not own them personally.
Despite his global influence, Sadhguru maintains a simple and disciplined lifestyle. He emphasizes the importance of inner growth and self-awareness over material possessions.
Legacy and Global Impact
Sadhguru’s teachings have touched millions of lives worldwide. Through the Isha Foundation, he has established numerous educational and social initiatives, including schools, rural development programs, and healthcare projects. His vision of a spiritually awakened and environmentally sustainable world continues to inspire people across the globe.
Sadhguru’s ability to blend ancient yogic wisdom with modern-day challenges has made him a revered figure in the fields of spirituality, environmentalism, and human empowerment. His work remains a testament to the transformative power of inner engineering and conscious living.