An American-born spiritual teacher, founded Kashi in 1976, carrying forth the wisdom of her beloved Guru, Neem Karoli Baba. At the heart of this lineage lies a sacred call: Be kind, be compassionate, and serve one another. In our Baba’s words, “Love Everyone, Serve Everyone, Feed Everyone.” Her passion demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social justice, interfaith harmony, and advocacy for the marginalized. Championing the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS at the height of the epidemic, Ma Jaya provided care and dignity when few would. Our Kashi Ashram strives to honor her example to support those in need and stand with the oppressed. Kashi Ashram is more than a place; it is a way of living with an open heart. In 2012, Ma Jaya left her physical body through Mahasamadhi - but her light continues to shine through our community practices, her written/recorded teachings, and several charities she inspired.