Lives of great men all remind us we can make our lives sublime.

Shri Ram Chandra of Fatehgarh U.P. in northern India, affectionately known as Lalaji, was the adi-guru (first Master) of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. Born on 2 February 1873, Lalaji belonged to a distinguished family of Jagirdars (landowners).

His mother a devout woman who passed away when Lalaji was only seven years old, leaving upon him the imprint of her strong faith. From his mother he developed a thirst for God at a young age. Before his father died, all the family property was stolen by an unscrupulous raja (king). Lalaji started life afresh in a humble position, but he was soon recognized as a spiritual saint of the highest caliber.

It was Lalaji's conviction that a normal family life was most conducive to self-development and that any sincere seeker could progress to the highest level of spiritual attainment while fulfilling the duties of a householder. Not content to pursue such a goal for himself alone, he rediscovered and refined the ancient raja yoga method of pranahuti, whereby divine energy is transmitted by the Master into the heart of the aspirant. Lalaji offered his spiritual training to sincere seekers of any caste or creed, assuring that the highest spiritual aspirations were brought within reach of all humanity.

When he was not at his office, Lalaji imparted training to abhyasis (practicants) day and night; after going to bed, he transmitted to them until two o'clock in the morning. The art of transmission was passed from Lalaji to his most devoted disciple, who coincidentally bore the same name, Shri Ram Chandra of Shahjahanpur. Babuji, as he was known, further refined his Master's teachings into the current practice of Sahaj Marg (the natural path).