Title: AWAKENER – Authorized Biography of a Yogi
Author: Katia Mossin
Pages: 668
Publisher: Evincepub Publishing
ISBN: 9788194234838
Language: English
Introduction
Every now and then, a book comes into our life that doesn’t just entertain or inform—it transforms. AWAKENER: Authorized Biography of a Yogi is one such rare book. Written by Katia Mossin, a disciple and close student of the yogi Shailendra Sharma, this book goes beyond a simple life story. It is not only a biography but also a spiritual journey, a deep reflection on yoga, consciousness, time, death, nature, and the purpose of human life.
In a time where “yoga” is often reduced to physical exercise or Instagram aesthetics, this book reminds us of the true purpose of yoga—self-realization and union with the divine.
About the Book
The subject of the book is Shailendra Sharma, the fifth Guru in the lineage of Mahavatar Babaji and Lahiri Mahasaya, which was popularized worldwide by Paramahansa Yogananda in his famous book Autobiography of a Yogi.
Shailendra Sharma, however, is not a public speaker or a traveling spiritual celebrity. He is a deeply realized yogi who lives in Govardhan (near Mathura) and continues to practice and teach the powerful technique of Kriya Yoga in its most authentic form.
The book is a result of more than a decade of close observation and spiritual training. Katia Mossin, originally an architect from New York who moved to India, writes with honesty, humility, and insight. Her deep personal connection with the subject gives this book a rare emotional and spiritual depth.
Structure of the Book
The book is divided into various sections:
- Introduction
- Early Years
- Puri
- The Beginning
- Gods, Avatars, and Nature
- Alchemy
- Waves of the Future
- And many more…
It also contains reflections, memories, philosophical thoughts, stories from students, descriptions of yogic practices, mystical experiences, and glimpses into ancient traditions.
Why This Book Is Special
1. More Than Just a Biography
Yes, this is a biography. But unlike most biographies that simply list dates and achievements, AWAKENER is an inner biography. It captures not only what Shailendra Sharma did, but what he felt, saw, learned, and became through the path of Yoga.
You learn about his family history, his grandfather’s bravery and spiritual experiences, his childhood friendships, his struggle with the school system, and his early signs of being different from others.
But the real journey starts when he discovers Kriya Yoga and begins walking the path towards Samadhi—the final state of yogic union.
2. A Unique Teacher
Shailendra Sharma is not a typical guru. He is straightforward, sometimes humorous, sometimes silent, and sometimes brutally honest. He doesn’t claim to be a godman. In fact, in his own words:
“These are the stories of my life experiences, independent and personal observations from a yogic point of view… If you find these stories useful and entertaining—great; if not, then it is fine too.”
He talks openly about Samadhi, Time, Void, Spirits, Nature, and even about the limits of religious dogma. He believes that Nature is the real deity and that the spirit must guide the mind.
3. Clarity on Real Yoga
Today, yoga is often misunderstood. This book clears all confusion. Real yoga, as shown in this book, is not about flexibility or complex postures. It is about controlling the breath, understanding the mind, and going beyond the body to realize one’s true nature.
You learn about Kriya Yoga, the method introduced by Babaji and taught by Lahiri Mahasaya and Yogananda. But unlike other teachings, here you also see the inner alchemy of the yogic path—the transformation of ego into awareness, of pain into realization.
Some Highlights and Insights from the Book
Nature as the Ultimate Guru
Sharma always had a deep connection with nature—from animals to trees to rivers. One powerful lesson in the book is how Nature becomes the Guru, teaching us through its silence, beauty, balance, and power. His connection with dogs, peacocks, cows, and even fog or stones becomes almost spiritual.
Samadhi and Death
Unlike many spiritual books that talk about death in a poetic way, this book gives a clear explanation of what death is—and how it can be conquered through Samadhi. Sharma himself describes experiences where the body and soul separate, and how yogis learn to remain conscious even after physical death.
The Discipline of Yoga
The book also does not hide the struggles. The discipline, the physical suffering, the mental battles, and the continuous tests from the universe are part of the journey. Yoga is not a quick path—it is lifelong, and even dangerous if not done sincerely. This truth is explained with complete honesty.
Spiritual Humor
One surprising element in the book is Sharma’s sharp wit and sense of humor. He sometimes jokes about his “perfect imperfection,” or uses sarcasm to break the ego of the seeker. This makes the book enjoyable and very human.
Writing Style
Katia Mossin’s writing is deep, yet readable. Her language is poetic in some places, philosophical in others, and very personal throughout. She does not try to “impress” the reader. Instead, she invites the reader to experience the journey with her.
You feel like you are walking beside her—through Indian cities, temples, forests, and quiet moments in the ashram. Her confusion, doubts, awe, and realizations become ours too.
What You Will Take Away from This Book
- A deep understanding of what real yoga is
- A realistic picture of a modern-day yogi who lives the ancient way
- A powerful reminder that spirituality is not about escaping the world, but understanding it
- A sense of humility—knowing that we are all seekers, and the path is long but beautiful
- A feeling of inspiration—that there are still people in the world who are genuinely awake
Who Should Read This Book?
- Anyone interested in spirituality or yoga
- Readers of Autobiography of a Yogi who want to know “what happened next”
- Seekers who feel lost or confused in today’s commercialized spiritual world
- People who enjoy deep stories, Indian culture, and philosophical questions
- Even skeptics—because the book does not try to convince you, only to share
A Few Limitations (Honestly Speaking)
No book is perfect. AWAKENER is not for casual readers. If you are looking for a light, motivational book or a quick spiritual fix, this is not it. It demands patience, presence, and attention.
Some chapters go deep into metaphysical ideas that may confuse beginners. But if you stay with the book, everything starts making sense slowly.
Also, the book is long (over 600 pages), so it’s better to read in parts, like a slow spiritual meditation.
Final Thoughts
In today’s world of “fast food spirituality,” AWAKENER is like sitting down to a slow, nourishing meal cooked with love and truth. It is a book you don’t just read—you live with it. You think about it even after closing the pages.
Shailendra Sharma may not be famous like some gurus, but through this book, he becomes unforgettable. His story is not about miracles, but about mastery. Not about fame, but about freedom.
And Katia Mossin, with her gentle but powerful pen, has gifted the world a rare gem of spiritual literature.
If you are tired of the noise and want to hear a real voice… if you are seeking not comfort, but truth… if you want to see the living continuation of India’s yogic legacy, then read AWAKENER.
About The Author
Katia Mossin translated several books, including “Song of the naked heart, poetry by Lalla Ded”, as well as “Kundalini: The Energy of the Depths” by Lilian Sillburn. She also had written short stories, published in “Lost and Found: Stories from New York”. She earned a Master’s degree in architecture and worked in New York, USA, as an architect and urban planner. Since 2009 she lives and works in India.
The author began to practice Kriya yoga under the guidance of Guru Shailendra Sharma in 2008; in 2011-2021 she edited, structured and translated several of his books: “At the Right Hand of God”, “The twilight language of Gorakhboth” and “Upanishad of Immortality”.
