Gurumāyī Chidvilaśānanda

Gurumāyī Chidvilaśānanda is the head of Siddha Yoga, succeeding Muktananda, and is known for teaching Śaktipāt (spiritual transmission).

Life/History

Born Malti Shetty on 24 June 1955 in Bombay (Mumbai), she received shaktipat initiation from Swami Muktananda at age 14. Muktananda designated her and her brother Swami Nityananda as his successors; she became a sannyāsin in 1982 and, on Muktananda’s death that year, the siblings jointly became heads of Siddha Yoga. After her brother left the path in 1985, she became its sole spiritual head. The SYDA Foundation represents her and her teachings, with ashrams in India (Ganeshpuri) and the West (notably Fallsburg, New York).

Teachings/Contributions

She teaches Siddha Yoga, emphasizing meditation, chanting, and Śaktipāt as paths to spiritual awakening. She has authored several devotional books, beginning with Kindle My Heart (1989).

Legacy

Under her guidance, Siddha Yoga has grown into a global movement with centers across the world. She continues the tradition of Muktananda’s teachings.

Verification notes

• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).