At the age of 85, Shri Mangalanath Maharaj passed away peacefully. Born in 1936 into a family following the Nath tradition, he was the eldest son of Shri Vyankatnath Maharaj. While Madhavanath Maharaj was residing in Nagpur, an extraordinary event occurred in Devgaon: a wandering sadhu appeared at their house, chanting “Om Bhavati Bhikshandehi.” Upon hearing this, the family’s Guru Mata came out to offer alms. The sadhu told her, “A divine son will be born in your womb, he will be part of our lineage,” and then disappeared. It was later realized that the sadhu was manifestation of the family Guru.
Shri Mangalanath Maharaj’s son, Sudhakar Ratnaparkhi, was born in the Nath lineage. Maharaj completed his college education in Nagpur, which later became the center of his spiritual activities. During his studies, many witnessed miraculous events connected to him, which strengthened the faith of countless devotees.
Shri Mangalanath Maharaj had a deep personal connection with the narrator, Shri Narendra Nath Maharaj, rooted in their shared guidance under Vyankatnath Maharaj. On one occasion, Vyankatnath Maharaj advised, “There is no age limit for service in the lineage; the work continues through the dedicated practitioner,” inspiring Shri Narendra Nath Maharaj to seek the blessings of Mangalanath Maharaj.
Many anecdotes illustrate his remarkable life. Once, during a journey from Devgaon to Nagpur at the age of eight to ten, Maharaj was carried by Vyankatnath Maharaj across train platforms in an extraordinary act of divine care, arriving safely into a first-class compartment, showcasing his miraculous protection.
As Maharaj’s spiritual work grew, he expressed the desire to visit Chitrakoot with Vyankatnath Maharaj to further his spiritual mission, but this could not be realized due to circumstances. His spiritual efforts continued independently, spreading the teachings and propagation of the Nath Sampradaya tirelessly.
Shri Mangalanath Maharaj dedicated his entire life to the service of the Nath tradition, promoting spiritual guidance and societal upliftment through unceasing efforts. Today, the Nath Panth work remains vital to counter the challenges of Kali Yuga, offering spiritual direction and liberation.
Those fortunate enough to benefit from his guidance are encouraged to focus on the spiritual greatness of the Nath lineage, remain under its protection, and practice devotion and meditation as prescribed by the Gurus. This is the heartfelt tribute of Shri Narendra Nath Maharaj, Nath Shakti Peeth, Akola.