Aatmanand Nand ji | Revered Saint | Rajpurohit

Swami Shri Atmanand Saraswati Maharaj (born Achal Singh on 3 September 1924 – Samadhi at Jalore) was a revered spiritual leader, educationist, and social reformer from the Rajpurohit community of Rajasthan. Known for his ascetic lifestyle, unwavering discipline, and dedication to education and social welfare, he played a crucial role in awakening educational consciousness within the Rajpurohit community.

Full Name: Sat Shri 1008 Swami Atmanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj

Birth Name: Achal Singh

Date of Birth: 3 September 1924 (Vikram Samvat 1981, Shukla Paksha, Bhadrapada Chaturthi, Wednesday)

Birthplace: Barwajab, Tehsil Bali, District Pali, Rajasthan

Father: Shri Devisingh Rajpurohit Gundecha (Gundesha)

Mother: Smt. Mangu Devi

From a young age, Achal Singh displayed strong spiritual inclinations and a deep commitment to discipline, knowledge, and service.

Swami Atmanand Saraswati Maharaj was initiated into the spiritual path under the guidance of Shri 1008 Anant Maharaj, a disciple of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Shri Shantanand Saraswati Ji of Jyotish Peeth. Under their tutelage, he adopted the life of a celibate ascetic (brahmachari) and was later conferred the title of Shiksha Sarathi, reflecting his tireless efforts in the field of education.

He lived an austere and disciplined life, strictly adhering to vows and spiritual practices that few could emulate. His presence inspired devotion, discipline, and service among followers.

Swami Atmanand Maharaj is best remembered as a visionary educationist and social reformer. He emphasized equal access to education for boys and girls and dedicated his life to establishing educational infrastructure for the upliftment of the Rajpurohit community.

Key Contributions:

Founded and supported multiple hostels and educational institutions in:

Jalore

Pali Marwar

Falna

Raniwara

Kalindri

Jodhpur (Tisra Vistar)

Sirohi

Bhinmal

Ahore

Played an instrumental role in the construction and development of community buildings and dharamshalas at:

Sanchore

Sirohi

Kalindri

Pali

Nimbeshwar

Actively involved in the restoration and construction of ancient temples, including Mahadev temples. Contributed to the development and upkeep of several gaushalas (cow shelters) in the region. His impact on education earned him the title "Shiksha Sarathi" (Charioteer of Education), and he is fondly remembered as a Karmyogi and spiritual guide in the Rajpurohit community.

Swami Atmanand Saraswati attained Mahasamadhi in Jalore, where his Samadhi has been established and serves as a place of devotion and remembrance for followers. His legacy lives on through the educational institutions and social initiatives he established. 

Every year, on his punyatithi (death anniversary), followers, institutions, and community leaders pay tribute to his life and service. Organizations like the Sugana Foundation and Rajpurohit Samaj - India continue to honor his work and preserve his vision.