Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Neeb Karori Baba or Maharaj-ji, was a revered Indian saint and spiritual master who inspired many followers around the world, including notable Westerners like Ram Dass (formerly Richard Alpert) and Krishna Das. Although Neem Karoli Baba left his physical body in 1973, his teachings and spirit continue to inspire and guide many.
How to Pray to Neem Karoli Baba
Praying to Neem Karoli Baba is a personal and spiritual practice that varies from person to person. Here are some steps and methods that you can consider when praying to Neem Karoli Baba:
1. Create a Sacred Space
- Find a quiet place where you feel comfortable and can sit undisturbed. This could be a meditation room, a corner of your house, or a place in nature.
- You might place a picture of Neem Karoli Baba, some flowers, and light a candle or incense as an offering. This helps create an environment conducive to prayer and meditation.
2. Invoke His Presence
- Begin by closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths to center yourself.
- Silently or aloud, you can invoke Neem Karoli Baba’s presence. A simple invocation could be:
- "Neem Karoli Baba, I invite your presence into this space. Guide me and protect me with your divine wisdom and love."
3. Chant Mantras or Bhajans
- Mantras: Reciting mantras associated with Neem Karoli Baba can help focus the mind and invoke his energy. One commonly used mantra is:
- “Ram Ram”: Neem Karoli Baba often emphasized the repetition of the name of Lord Ram. This simple mantra can be chanted repeatedly to bring peace and connection.
- Bhajans: Singing devotional songs (bhajans) can also be a powerful way to connect with Baba’s spirit. Krishna Das and Jai Uttal have popularized many such bhajans in the West.
4. Speak to Him
- Prayer is also about speaking from the heart. Share your thoughts, feelings, and desires with Neem Karoli Baba as you would with a loving guide or friend. You might say:
- "Baba, please guide me on my path, help me find peace, and grant me the strength to face my challenges."
- You can also ask for his blessings for yourself or others, or simply express gratitude for his presence in your life.
5. Meditate and Listen
- After chanting or speaking, spend some time in silent meditation. Focus on your breath or simply sit in silence, listening for any inner guidance or feelings that arise.
- Neem Karoli Baba often taught through presence rather than words, so being open and receptive in meditation can be a powerful form of prayer.
6. Conclude with Gratitude
- When you feel ready to end your prayer session, offer thanks. A simple expression of gratitude could be:
- "Thank you, Neem Karoli Baba, for your guidance, love, and blessings. May I always remember your teachings and live in harmony with your spirit."
Sample Prayers
- Prayer for Guidance:
Neem Karoli Baba, divine teacher and protector,
Please guide me on my spiritual journey.
Help me to see the truth in all situations,
And to act with love and compassion.
Keep me close to your presence,
So that I may always feel your guidance and grace.
Ram Ram.
- Prayer for Peace and Strength:
Maharaj-ji, my spiritual father and friend,
I seek your blessings and strength.
Grant me peace in times of trouble,
And courage when I am weak.
May I always remember your words and live with an open
heart.
Ram Ram.
- Prayer for Gratitude:
Neem Karoli Baba, beloved guru,
Thank you for your boundless love and wisdom.
I am grateful for your presence in my life,
And for all the blessings you have bestowed upon me.
Help me to be a light unto others,
And to serve with humility and devotion.
Ram Ram.
Benefits of Praying to Neem Karoli Baba
- Spiritual Connection: Praying to Neem Karoli Baba helps deepen your spiritual connection, fostering a sense of closeness to a wise and loving guide.
- Inner Peace: Many devotees find that praying to Neem Karoli Baba brings them inner peace and tranquility, especially in times of turmoil or stress.
- Guidance and Wisdom: By praying and meditating, you can tap into Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings and gain insights into your life's challenges.
- Emotional Support: Prayer can provide emotional comfort and support, helping you feel less alone during difficult times.
- Inspiration for Selfless Service: Neem Karoli Baba emphasized selfless service (seva). Praying to him can inspire acts of kindness and generosity towards others.
Relevant Facts about Neem Karoli Baba
- Born: Around 1900, in Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Philosophy: Neem Karoli Baba was a devotee of Lord Hanuman and taught his followers to live a life of simplicity, service, love, and devotion.
- Teachings: His teachings were often simple yet profound, focusing on the power of love, service, and repeating God’s name. He famously said, “Love everyone, serve everyone, remember God.”
- Devotees: He attracted many Western followers, including spiritual teacher Ram Dass, musician Krishna Das, and author Bhagavan Das.
- Miracles: Neem Karoli Baba was believed to have performed numerous miracles, which added to his mystique and the devotion of his followers.
- Legacy: His ashrams in India, especially in Kainchi Dham, continue to be places of pilgrimage. His teachings are widely accessible through books and recordings from his followers.
Praying to Neem Karoli Baba is a personal journey that can bring profound spiritual benefits. Whether through chanting, silent meditation, or heartfelt conversation, his presence can be felt as a guiding force in your spiritual practice.