Who was Baba Sivanand, the Padma Shri awardee who allegedly died at the age of 128 in Varanasi?

Renowned spiritual leader and Padma Shri awardee Baba Sivanand passed away in Varanasi on Saturday night due to health complications. He was reportedly 128 years old, according to his disciples.

Baba Sivanand had been admitted to the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Hospital on April 30 after complaining of health issues. Following his death, his body has been kept at his residence in Kabirnagar Colony for devotees and well-wishers to pay their last respects. His last rites are scheduled to be performed later this evening.

All about Padma Shri awardee Baba Sivanand

Born on August 8, 1896, in the Sylhet district of present-day Bangladesh, Baba Sivanand faced hardship from an early age. His disciples say he lost both his parents to starvation when he was just six years old. Following the tragedy, he was taken in by Omkarnand, who became his mentor and spiritual guide.


Under Omkarnand's tutelage, Baba Sivanand embraced a life of asceticism, spiritual learning, and strict discipline. He reportedly survived on a simple diet, eating only half a stomach of food and consuming only boiled meals. His daily routine included waking up at 3 a.m., practicing yoga, and handling his personal chores independently. He also chose to sleep on a mat and lived without any luxuries.

In recognition of his lifelong contributions to yoga and spirituality, Baba Sivanand was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2022.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute to the spiritual leader, expressing deep sorrow over his passing. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, "It is very sad that famous yoga guru of Kashi 'Padma Shri' Swami Shivanand ji, who made an unparalleled contribution in the field of Yoga, passed away. Humble tribute to him!"

He further added, "Your sadhana and yoga-filled life is a great inspiration for the whole society. You dedicated your whole life to the expansion of yoga. I pray to Baba Vishwanath to grant salvation to the departed soul and give strength to his bereaved followers to bear this immense grief. Om Shanti."