Rādhāsvāmī

Origins

The Rādhāsvāmī movement was founded by Shiv Dayal Singh (1818–1878) in Agra. It emerged from the Sant tradition of North India, synthesising teachings from Kabir, Ravidas, Dadu Dayal, and other poet-saints with elements of Surat Shabd Yoga.

History

Shiv Dayal Singh, known as Swamiji Maharaj, attracted a devoted following during his lifetime in Agra. After his death, the movement’s leadership passed to several successors, leading to eventual divisions. Prominent branches include the Dayalbagh faction in Agra and the Radha Soami Satsang Beas, whose main centre is Dera Baba Jaimal Singh on the banks of the Beas River. The tradition spread across North India and attracted followers from various religious backgrounds.

Key Teachings

The tradition teaches that the ultimate reality is Radhaswami (the Lord of the Soul), a formless divine being. Liberation is achieved through Surat Shabd Yoga — inner meditation on the divine sound (shabda) — rather than external ritual. The system emphasises four stages of spiritual practice: satsang (association with the truth), surat shabd yoga, bhakti (devotion), and ultimately union with the divine. The tradition stresses moral living, vegetarianism, and service.

Modern Status

The Radha Soami Satsang Beas is among the largest branches, operating educational institutions, hospitals, and social welfare programmes. The tradition has a significant following in India and among the diaspora.

Verification Notes

Lineage verified through institutional records of the Rādhāsvāmī Satsang and documented succession of gurus.

• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).