Who is Haidakhan Babaji

Shri Haidakhan Babaji appeared in the Himalayan region of northern India in the early 1970s. Over the following years, thousands of people from India and around the world traveled to Haidakhan to receive his darshan, participate in spiritual practice, and assist in the work he inspired.

Babaji did not establish a complex philosophy. Instead, he emphasized direct spiritual practice through devotion, service, discipline, and remembrance of the Divine.

He encouraged people of all backgrounds and religions to live according to universal principles and repeatedly emphasized:
Truth, Simplicity, and Love.

Babaji left his physical body in 1984, yet devotees throughout the world continue to experience his presence, guidance, and inspiration.

One of his most cherished statements remains: “I am always with you.”

He also gave us the mantra “ Om Namah Shivay ” ॐ नमः शिवाय
(literally meaning “I surrender to God”) to repeat aloud or silently.

The Core Teaching

The foundation of Babaji’s teaching rests on three principles:

Truth

Living honestly, courageously, and in alignment with what is right.

Simplicity

Reducing unnecessary complexity and returning to a life that is natural, sincere, and balanced.

Love

Serving others and recognizing the divine presence within all beings.

These principles continue to guide devotees throughout the world and form the spiritual foundation of Babaji Hawaii.

Work Is Worship

One of Babaji’s central teachings is karma yoga—selfless service performed without attachment to personal reward. Babaji taught that spiritual realization is not achieved by escaping life but by engaging fully in it with the right attitude. Service to others. Care for the land. Preparation of food. Building community. Daily responsibilities. All can become spiritual practice when performed in remembrance of the Divine.

Babaji often reminded devotees that:
“Work is Worship.”

The Mantra: Om Namah Shivaya

Babaji encouraged the repetition of the ancient Sanskrit mantra: Om Namah Shivaya ॐ नमः शिवाय

This mantra is traditionally translated as: “I bow to the divine within.” Babaji taught that repeating the divine name helps quiet the mind and keeps the heart centered in spiritual awareness. Devotees are encouraged to repeat the mantra during prayer, meditation, and even while performing daily work.

A Life of Prayer and Service

During Babaji’s time in Haidakhan, the daily rhythm of life followed a simple spiritual pattern:

Morning began with aarti (devotional chanting).

The day was devoted to karma yoga, working together in service.

Evening concluded with aarti and prayer. 

This rhythm continues today in ashrams globally throughout the Haidakhandi tradition.

Pohoiki Ashram follows the same structure, integrating prayer, service, and community into daily life.

The Haidakhandi Samaj

The Haidakhandi Samaj is the organization established to preserve Babaji’s teachings and maintain the primary ashrams connected with his work. Its main centers are located in the Himalayan region of northern India, including the Haidakhan and Chilliyanaula ashrams. Through temples, devotional gatherings, and charitable activities, the Samaj continues to share Babaji’s message and support communities throughout India and around the world. More information can be found at:

https://haidakhandisamaj.in/ 

Our Connection

Babaji Hawaii exists to support and connect devotees, practitioners, and friends inspired by the teachings of Shri Haidakhan Babaji throughout Hawaiʻi. Through aarti, sacred fire, karma yoga, spiritual practice, and community, we seek to carry these teachings forward in a spirit of Truth, Simplicity, and Love.