Celebrating 125 Years of Shanti Ashrama: The First Hindu Ashrama in the West

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The Vedanta Society of Northern California, a branch of the Ramakrishna Order, invites you to join us in commemorating the 125th anniversary of Shanti Ashrama, an early beacon of Vedanta in the West, nestled in the picturesque San Antonio Valley. Swami Turiyananda, a direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, established this tranquil sanctuary in August 1900, naming it Shanti Ashrama. The land, a generous gift of 160 acres from Minnie Boock was accepted by Swami Vivekananda in the name of the Ramakrishna Order as a place for spiritual development, far from the clamor of the world.

Located eighteen miles southeast of Mt. Hamilton, the ashrama’s setting amidst sparsely wooded hills offered an ideal environment for spiritual practice. Life at the early ashrama revolved around a daily routine that harmoniously blended spiritual disciplines with practical work. Students lived closely with Swami Turiyananda, who inspired them with his profound spirituality, fostering spiritual growth through a Vedantic approach to life.

Over the years, Shanti Ashrama became a vital center for Vedanta students. Swami Trigunatitananda, another direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna,lead monthlong retreats and gave classes under the famed “Om Tree.”

Though normally closed to the public, Shanti Ashrama remains a place of pilgrimage once a year. To honor this enduring legacy, we invite you to a special commemorative event on Saturday, April 26, at Shanti Ashrama. Join us for a day of meditation, worship, and satsang as we celebrate the Ashrama’s 125 years of peace and spiritual inspiration. Come and experience the serene atmosphere that has drawn spiritual seekers for generations and learn more about the profound history of the first Vedanta retreat in America.

A practical note: The Ashrama is extremely remote. Please bring your lunch and drinking water. Only coffee, tea, juice, and a dessert will be provided at lunchtime. You may also wish to bring a pillow or chair to sit on, a sun hat, and a warm jacket, since the weather can be quite variable.

For directions and further information, please RSVP here.