Sri Sarada Devi (1853–1920)
Sri Sarada Devi (1853–1920), revered as the Holy Mother, was the spiritual consort of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Born on 22 December 1853 in the village of Sihar in the Bankura district of Bengal, she came to represent the Divine Mother in human form — the very embodiment of motherly love, infinite patience, and compassion.
From a young age Sarada Devi exhibited extraordinary spiritual qualities. She was married to Sri Ramakrishna at the age of five, in accordance with the customs of the time. Though they lived apart for most of their lives, she was deeply connected to her husband in the spiritual realm. Sri Ramakrishna recognized her as an embodiment of the Divine and accorded her the highest respect.
After Sri Ramakrishna's passing in 1886, the Holy Mother became the living centre of the spiritual movement he had inspired. Devotees and disciples from all over India flocked to her for guidance and initiation. She gave herself tirelessly and unconditionally to all who came to her, regardless of caste, creed, or background. Her famous saying, “If you want peace, do not find fault with others. Rather, see your own faults,” captures the essence of her practical wisdom.
Sri Sarada Devi was a beacon of strength and inspiration to the early Ramakrishna Order. When asked how she regarded all those who came to her, she replied, “I am the mother of the virtuous, and I am also the mother of the wicked. Whenever you are in distress, just say to yourself, ‘I have a mother.’”
Source of Strength and Inspiration
The Holy Mother remained a source of strength and inspiration to all throughout her life. Her very presence radiated a peace and spiritual power that transformed those around her. She lived a life of utter simplicity, spending her days in prayer, cooking, receiving devotees, and attending to the needs of those who came to her — all the while maintaining an unwavering inner serenity.
She guided the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna with a mother's loving care and instilled in them the confidence to carry on the great work Swami Vivekananda had initiated. She passed away on 21 July 1920, leaving behind a legacy of love and selflessness that continues to inspire millions across the world.
The Ramakrishna Math and Mission regard Sri Sarada Devi as the universal mother of all. Her birthday, Sarada Puja, is observed with great reverence at all centres of the Ramakrishna Order, including the Belagavi Ashrama.
Sayings of the Holy Mother
“If you want peace, do not find fault with others. Rather, see your own faults. Learn to make the world your own. No one is a stranger, my child; the whole world is your own.”
“I am the mother of the virtuous and the wicked alike. Whenever you are in distress, just say to yourself, ‘I have a mother.’”
“One must be patient like the earth. What iniquities are being perpetrated on her, yet she quietly endures them all.”