Cherished Memories

Drawn to the Maharshi at a young age, Kanakammal describes how, under the watchful eyes of Sri Ramana Maharshi, she pursued her spirtitual practice at Arunachala. The book was originally written in Tamil and has been ably translated into English by Ms. Lalitha Kirtivasan.

Ms T. R. Kanakammal is well known as a blessed long time resident of the ashram. She had the good fortune of living near the Master for decades.

In “Cherished Memories” Kanakammal narrates a number of anecdotes relating to Sri Ramana Maharshi. In her account she brings in the glory of Arunachala Hill and insightful explanations of Maharshi’s personality and teachings.

Kanakammal’s presence near Sri Ramana Maharshi and her close association with eminent devotees like Muruganar coupled with her sound knowledge of languages spoken by the Maharshi makes her work an authentic source of information on Maharshi’s life and teachings.

Since Maharshi never adopted a pontifical attitude, it was left to devotees to record with care his utterances as well as actions (which had a deep significance). The author has played her role as the recorder/narrator well. Through a study of this book devotees and seekers will also get a clear picture of life at the Ashram. pp 217