OMKARA ASHRAM was founded in 1960 at Mayiladuthurai in Nagai Quaide Millet District of Tamilnadu, India, on the birthday of Parabrahma Sadguru Om Sri Siddhar Swamigal, its founder. On 1/19/1962 he told his chief disciple "Take charge of the Ashram and through its activities spread divine wisdom. Occupy the Omkara Peeta and render selfless service to the entire world. I bless this effort to promote Sathya, Dharma and Nyaya (Truth, Righteousness and Justice)".

The swami trained his disciples to help all beings human and subhuman to live in peace and happiness. He orderd them to take that work as their life's mission. Before laying down his mortal coils, on 8/31/1964, he directed his chief disciple not to stay in Mayiladuthurai but to go north and choose an area for intensive service. On 7/21/1965, that chosen one, Srilasri Swami Omkarananda came to Pondicherry, a place sanctified by the stay of great saints and seers over several centuries, established Omkara Ashram and started his spiritual and social service.