List of Hindu gurus and sants

The List of Hindu gurus and sants provides an overview of notable individuals who have been recognized as gurus and sants within the various traditions of Hinduism. These spiritual leaders have significantly influenced the religious landscape, offering teachings, guidance, and enlightenment to their followers. This list includes figures from various sects and movements within Hinduism, such as Advaita Vedanta, Bhakti movement, and others.

Definition

A guru in Hinduism is more than a teacher. In its deepest sense, a guru is one who imparts wisdom and guidance, often considered a spiritual guide who leads a disciple to self-realization. A sant, on the other hand, is a term used more specifically in the context of the Bhakti movement, referring to a saintly person known for their devotion and the purity of their life.

List of Notable Gurus and Sants

Adi Shankaracharya

• Adi Shankaracharya (early 8th century CE) - A revered philosopher and theologian who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, a sub-school of Vedanta that teaches the non-dualism of Atman and Brahman.

Ramanuja

• Ramanuja (1017–1137 CE) - A theologian and philosopher who is the main proponent of Vishishtadvaita sub-school of Vedanta.

Madhvacharya

• Madhvacharya (1238–1317 CE) - The founder of the Dvaita school of Vedanta, which advocates dualism between individual souls and the supreme being.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

• Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486–1534 CE) - A saint and founder of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, known for his role in the Bhakti movement and his devotion to Krishna.

Kabir

• Kabir (1440–1518 CE) - A mystic poet and saint of India, whose writings have greatly influenced the Bhakti movement.

Tulsidas

• Tulsidas (1532–1623 CE) - A poet-saint, reformer, and philosopher renowned for his devotion to Rama and for his text, the Ramcharitmanas.

Ramakrishna Paramhansa

• Ramakrishna Paramhansa (1836–1886 CE) - A mystic and yogi, whose teachings formed the foundation of the Ramakrishna Mission founded by his disciple Swami Vivekananda.

Swami Vivekananda

• Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902 CE) - A key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness.

Sai Baba of Shirdi

• Sai Baba of Shirdi (1838–1918 CE) - Also known as Shirdi Sai Baba, he is revered by both his Hindu and Muslim followers as a saint.

Paramahansa Yogananda

• Paramahansa Yogananda (1893–1952 CE) - An Indian monk, yogi, and guru who introduced millions to the teachings of meditation and Kriya Yoga through his organization Self-Realization Fellowship.

Impact and Legacy

These gurus and sants have played pivotal roles in shaping the spiritual, cultural, and philosophical landscape of Hinduism. Their teachings continue to influence not only their direct followers but also the broader practices and beliefs of Hindu communities worldwide.

See Also

• Hindu reform movements
• Indian saints
• Spiritual practice