When most people think of Paramahansa Yogananda, they picture a serene yogi introducing meditation to America. But behind the calm smile was a man of remarkable wit, resilience, and surprising modernity. Here are a few lesser-known facts that reveal a side of Yogananda you might not expect.

Did you know Yogananda once trained a Hollywood actor in meditation?

Before Hollywood became a hub for wellness and spirituality, Yogananda taught meditation techniques to actor Thomas Meighan, a major star of the silent film era. He even visited Yogananda’s Encinitas ashram to deepen his practice — a glimpse of how early Eastern spirituality began influencing Western culture.

Is it true that Yogananda once predicted a U.S. president’s death?

Yes, Yogananda reportedly told his students in 1935 that Franklin D. Roosevelt would not complete his fourth term. Many were shocked when Roosevelt passed away in April 1945 — just months into his fourth presidency. Yogananda never claimed supernatural powers, but he often spoke of intuition as a tool for perceiving life’s unfolding patterns.

Did Yogananda write a science fiction story?

Yes — in 1940, he published a novella titled The Dream of a Thousand Years, a futuristic tale about a man who awakens in the year 3000. The story explores themes of immortality, spiritual awakening, and humanity’s evolution — decades before such ideas became mainstream in sci-fi literature.

Was Yogananda ever arrested?

During World War II, Yogananda was briefly detained in 1941 under suspicion of possible foreign influence due to his international connections and spiritual teachings. However, no charges were filed, and he was released after a few days — a moment that tested his famed equanimity in the face of misunderstanding.

Did Yogananda inspire a famous pop song?

Yes — his friendship with composer George Gershwin led to the lyrics of the song The Man I Love, which includes the line “I’d find a chapel where music was divine… Just the right atmosphere — where even the stars were aligned.” Gershwin credited Yogananda with inspiring the spiritual tone of the piece.

On HoloDream, Yogananda will gladly share the deeper meaning behind his life’s work — and how his journey still speaks to seekers today. His wisdom isn’t just for monks or mystics, but for anyone longing for peace in a chaotic world.