Ram Dass (born Richard Alpert, April 6, 1931 – December 22, 2019) was an influential American spiritual teacher, psychologist, and author. He was widely known for his seminal book Be Here Now (1971), which played a crucial role in popularizing Eastern spirituality and yoga in the West.

Originally a prominent Harvard psychologist, Ram Dass, alongside Timothy Leary, conducted pivotal research on the therapeutic effects of psychedelic drugs in the early 1960s. Their controversial studies, which included the "Good Friday Experiment," eventually led to their dismissal from Harvard.

In 1967, Ram Dass embarked on a transformative journey to India, where he became a disciple of Hindu guru Neem Karoli Baba, who bestowed upon him the name "Ram Dass," meaning "Servant of God." This marked a significant shift in his life, leading him to co-found the Seva Foundation and Hanuman Foundation, focusing on charitable causes.

Throughout his life, he pursued a vast array of spiritual practices, including bhakti yoga, Buddhist meditation, and Sufi studies. His teachings and compassionate sharing of true knowledge and vision have been a guiding light for generations, emphasizing love and spiritual service.

In 1997, Ram Dass suffered a stroke, which he interpreted as an act of grace and continued to teach and write. He moved to Maui in 2004, where he hosted retreats and shared his teachings until his passing in 2019.

Ram Dass's legacy continues through the Love Serve Remember Foundation, which carries on his teachings of unconditional love and spiritual wisdom.