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Chronicling his stays in India from 1958 to 1962 and again in the winter of 1972–73, Swami Kriyananda shares inspiration from his visits to many saints, including Anandamayee Ma, Yogi Ramiah (Sri Rama Yogi), Swami Muktananda, Swami Narayan, and Sathya Sai Baba. As a swami steeped in Hindu spiritual heritage but coming from the West, Swamiji reveals unique glimpses into Indian society and culture, ashram living, the devotee-guru relationship, and the daily experience of high souls. He offers these insights primarily through letters he wrote while in India. His relationship with Anandamayee Ma is especially revealing. Swamiji writes, “I could have the sense of familiarity with her that I never had with my own Guru, whom I held too much in awe”, explaining that he considers her as his true spiritual mother. Through the pages of this slender but treasure-filled book, even Indian readers will find a closer connection with the saints and holy ones of their homeland. About the Author Swami Kriyananda , a direct disciple of the great master, Paramhansa Yogananda, is an internationally known author, lecturer, and composer. Widely recognized as one of the world\'s foremost authorities on meditation and yoga, he has taught these principles and techniques to hundreds of thousands of students around the world. In 1968, Kriyananda founded Ananda Village in Nevada City, California, dedicated to spreading the spirit of friendship, service, and community throughout the world. Ananda is recognized as one of the most successful intentional communities in the world; over 1,000 people reside in Ananda communities in the US, India, and Italy. The European retreat and community located in Assisi, Italy, also serves Ananda meditation groups in Europe, Croatia, and Russia. Ananda India has been serving people all over India for the last 5 years. With centers in Gurgaon, Pune, Delhi, Noida, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai, Ananda\'s influence is beginning to be felt all over India. Swami Kriyanandaji can be seen nightly on AASTHA TV, where his message reaches over 27 million viewers across India and southeast Asia.