Banyan Tree

This banyan tree was revealed to Paramahamsa Nithyananda in a spiritual vision.  He spent months searching and upon finding it, established the ashram in 2003.   Today, this sacred banyan tree is considered to be the guiding spirit of the ashram.

The vast umbrella of this ancient tree encloses a space resonant with spiritual energies.   It is under this umbrella the majestic statue of Dakshinamurti resides, the first-ever guru, imparting the deepest spiritual truths to his disciples in silence.

Over the years, this sacred space has acquired a powerful reputation for healing, wish-fulfillment and awakening spiritual clarity, and draws visitors and seekers from around the world.   The vibrations in this space are so distinct that even the casual visitor can feel its effects.  

This is the first where Nithyananda visits every morning before he starts his day.  Take the visual treat of the different moods (at least 108) of the sacred banyan tree.

Some facts about the Sacred Banyan Tree 

The banyan tree is a kalpa vriksha (boon giving tree) that has manifested scores of sincere prayers till date.

At the base of the banyan tree is a cave-like hollow in which was found a swayambhu lingam (naturally formed Shiva lingam), which has now been consecrated at the Sri Anandeshwar Temple.

The cave and the swayambh lingam have been here for centuries. Over 1000 years, the banyan tree has grown and spread its foliage here.

Impregnated with healing energy, this space heals at the physical, emotional and spiritual levels. It bears a mystical connection to Shambhala – the metaphysical space of enlightened Masters.

Here, one can find three trees: Athi (holy Fig), Ala (Banyan) and Arasa (Peepal), known to bear fruits without bearing flowers. In the Vedic tradition, these are sacred trees, known as Vanaspati or 'Lord of the forest'. It is said that Shiva resides in the place where these three trees are found together.