Book review: Autobiography of a yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda

Paramahansa Yogananda was a Hindu holy man who travelled to America in 1920 to introduce ancient Indian meditation techniques to the west. Yogananda is hardly a gifted writer but he has some fascinating stories to tell. Stories of his meetings with Tagore, Gandhi and other major historical figures were interesting to read.

Yogananda claims to have been taught an ancient yoga technique that allows one to achieve “direct, personal experience of God”. The book contains no description of the technique (which can only be taught by certified instructors).

Since Yogananda’s life was dedicated towards spreading Kriya Yoga in America it comes as no surprise that he tries to highlight ‘the essential unity’ of Hinduism and Christianity by quoting the Bible repeatedly.

Yogananda was definitely a profoundly holy man who loved God deeply. However I doubt some of his more interesting interpretations of Christian theology have much merit.