Sri Daya Mata

Sri Daya Mata, born Rita Hammons, was one of the first Western women to lead a major religious organization, serving as president and sanghamata of Self-Realization Fellowship/Yogoda Satsanga Society of India (SRF/YSS) from 1955 until her death in 2010.[1][3][4] A close disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda, she joined his ashram in 1931 at age 17, took monastic vows, and dedicated nearly 80 years to preserving and disseminating his teachings on yoga and meditation worldwide.[2][3][6] Revered as 'Mother of Compassion,' she guided SRF/YSS's global spiritual and humanitarian efforts from its Mount Washington headquarters in Los Angeles.[1][4][5]