Ram Dass first went to India in 1967. He was still Dr. Richard Alpert, a prominent Harvard psychologist and psychedelic pioneer with Dr. Timothy Leary. He continued his psychedelic research until that fateful Eastern trip in 1967, when he traveled to India. In India, he met his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, affectionately known as Maharaj-ji, who gave Ram Dass his name, which means “servant of God.” Everything changed then – his intense dharmic life started, and he became a pivotal influence on a culture that has reverberated with the words “Be Here Now” ever since. Ram Dass’ spirit has been a guiding light for three generations, carrying along millions on the journey, helping to free them from their bonds as he worked through his own.

Years later, with the blessings of his teacher, Ram Das returned from India and established himself as a Spiritual teacher and a leader in the Spiritual movement at that time. His influence was truly far and wide and his work touched many. Ragaia was fortunate to connect with Ram Dass initially at "Creating our Future" events each year that were created by Ram Dass and other Spiritual leaders at the time to support young spiritual seekers and activists. Ragaia would also frequent Satsang / Kirtan events in the Bay Area and namely, "Open Secret" bookstore in San Rafael, CA. After such events Ragaia and Ram Dass had the opportunity to share quality time having profound conversations that engrossed them both equally and eventually became a friendship. Ultimately, it was out of such sharing and conversations that Ragaia found his clarity and connection with Ayurveda and what became a dharmic journey to envision an Ayurvedic Healing Sanctuary. Ragaia remains grateful to this day for the kindness Ram Dass shared with him and the inspiration to pursue such a profound path - Om.