Autobiography of a Yogi

In November 1935, Yogananda and his secretary spend a month in Mysore state, in southern India. Yogananda gives lectures, some of which attract audiences of several thousand. Yogananda enjoys visiting ancient archeological sites and learning about the history of Hyderabad. He also learns about the history of Mysore State, visiting an 11th-century temple at Belur. Yogananda discusses Alexander the Great’s unsuccessful invasion of India, which began in 327 BC. Alexander expressed great interest in Hindu philosophy and Hindu holy men. Yogananda quotes some favorable opinions of Hindu society written by ancient Greek historians, who praised the freedom Indians enjoyed and noted that healing was accomplished in simple, natural ways. Yogananda also notes the numerous religious shrines in Mysore. Continuing their travels, he and Wright stop at a shrine that memorializes Sadasiva Brahman, who lived in the 18th century and performed many miracles. Finally, the travelers make a pilgrimage to meet Sri Ramana Maharishi, a great sage, at his ashram near Tiruvannamalai.

In Calcutta, Yogananda speaks to a large audience and also gives a talk to alumni of Serampore College. At a winter solstice festival at the Serampore hermitage, Sri Yukteswar’s followers come from far and wide.