Farewell to Yogiraj Achala, Spiritual Teacher

This is a picture of Yogiraj Achala (nee Charles Bates), who left his body unexpectedly on June 18th, 2012.  He was a spiritual teacher in the Hatha Yoga tradition, to me and to many, many others--some who had studied devotedly with him for over 30 years.  Yogiraj had studied with Swami Rama, who brought Hatha Yoga to the West from India.  I had the lovely privilege of being a student of Yogiraj's, attending workshops at the Yoga North Duluth studio, as well as a couple of silence retreats.  Yogiraj was a brilliant man, who explored and expanded for our western minds the concepts of Hatha yoga.  He taught me so much about yogic philosophy and about meditation.  His presence for me was as an amazing spiritual teacher, and a gentle man, who provided a crucible for my growth.

I had the amazing good fortune to attend the ancient Vedic ritual that proceeded his cremation this Saturday in Minneapolis, MN.  The Vedic priest chanted and guided us as Yogiraj's sons covered him with herbs, and ghee, and incense, and fragrant woods, and I'm not sure what else, preparing his body for cremation.  He invited us all to use this moment to forgive Yogiraj, or for us to forgive ourselves, and let it all go, so that we were free to let Yogiraj go, and Yogiraj was free to speed to his next and "joyous" transition.  When these offerings were complete, insuring that Yogiraj had everything he needed (and acknowledging that he loved good food), the priest instructed us in our chants as his sons opened the door to the crematorium and his coffin was guided into the fires.

Later in the afternoon, we attended his memorial service--a service of many colors and many faiths (including a Tibetan monk, an Imam, a Jewish man, the Vedic priest, Christian evangelicals).  There were many speakers, family and others, sharing their love and connection with Yogiraj.  Many members of his amazing family, sang and played instruments.  It was a wondrous occasion.  Vv, his wife, was so loving and gracious, and even nurturing to all who were there.

We adjourned to enjoy the amazingly delicious vegan food in the fellowship of the church, The First Unitarian Universalist Church.  It was a long and momentous day.

I thank you Yogiraj for being my beautiful teacher.  The first time I met you, was the first time I meditated when my mind never wandered from my mantra--not even once.  I know that was because of your amazing ability to hold the space.  I look forward to meeting you in a new way in my life and meditations.  All my love to you, Yogiraj.

(The picture above was the one on his memorial service bulletin.