Ramana Maharishi : 30th Dec 1879 – 14th Apr 1950
In 1896, at the age of 16, he had a “death-experience” where he became aware of a “force” which he recognized as his true “self” . He travelled to the holy mountain Arunachala, in Thiruvannamalai, where he took on the role of a Sanyasi (though not formally initiated), and remained for the rest of his life.
Ramana is associated with self realisation. “Who am I?” is the title given to a set of questions and answers bearing on Self-enquiry. As recollected and recorded by Sri Sivaprakasam Pillai, there were fourteen questions with answers to them given by Bhagavan. His devotees regarded him as an Avatar. Ramana approved a number of paths and practices, but recommended self enquiry as the principal means to remove ignorance and abide in Self-awareness, together with Bhakti (devotion) or surrender to the Self.