Mahavatar Babaji Maharaj is revered as the fountainhead of Kriya Yoga sadhana, yet there is a lack of concrete evidence regarding his birth and life history. His existence remains shrouded in mystery, contributing to his enigmatic presence within spiritual traditions.
Yogiraj Shyama Charan Lahiri, also known as Lahiri Mahasaya, referred to him as Babaji Maharaj. Babaji is also known by various other names, including Mahamuni Babaji, Trayambak Baba, Babaji Nagraj, and Shiva Baba.
Maintaining a high degree of secrecy, Babaji Maharaj has occasionally blessed fortunate seekers (sadhaks and sadhikas) by granting them his divine darshan (vision). Advanced practitioners of Kriya Yoga, known as higher kriyabans, have reported feeling his presence and essence during their spiritual practices.
There is much hearsay about the invincibility and immortality of Babaji Maharaj, with some seekers even claiming him to be the reincarnation of Lord Shiva. His legendary status has led to various accounts emphasizing his divine nature and eternal existence.
In the Kriya Yoga lineage, Babaji Maharaj holds the highest position. He is credited with transmitting the Kriya Yoga techniques to the revered Shyama Charan Lahiri Mahasaya. This transmission was pivotal for the propagation of Kriya Yoga among ordinary householders, aiming for the betterment of mankind.
Originally, these Kriya Yoga techniques were given to Arjuna by Bhagavan Sri Krishna, as described in ancient texts. Over time, they remained mainly confined to sannyasis (renunciates) as a means to self-realization. Through Babaji Maharaj's guidance, these teachings were made accessible to laypeople, bridging the gap between monastic practices and everyday life.