Baba Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert in 1931, was an American spiritual teacher and author known for his influential book, Be Here Now. He played a significant role in introducing Eastern spirituality to the Western world, particularly through his teachings on mindfulness and presence. In the 1960s, Ram Dass became associated with the Hare Krishna movement and explored various spiritual practices, including meditation and yoga. His work emphasized the importance of love, compassion, and self-awareness, making him a prominent figure in the counterculture movement and a beloved teacher for many seeking spiritual growth.