Premanand Maharaj | |
|---|---|
 Premanand Maharaj giving darshan to his devotees | |
| Other names | Anandswaroop Brahmachari, Swami Anandashram |
| Personal | |
| Born | Aniruddh Kumar Pandey 30 March 1971 |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Parents |
|
| Citizenship | Indian |
| Region | Braj |
| Sect | Radha Vallabh Sampradaya |
| Education | Class 9 |
| Teachers | Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj |
| Other names | Anandswaroop Brahmachari, Swami Anandashram |
| Philosophy | Bhakti Rasa, Rasopasana |
| Religious career | |
| Website | vrindavanrasmahima |
Premanand Maharaj (born Aniruddh Kumar Pandey; 30 March 1971), is an Indian Hindu ascetic and spiritual leader based in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh.[1][2] He is an initiated monk of the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya, a Vaishnava denomination that emphasizes devotion to the Hindu deities Radha Krishna, with a particular theological focus on the supremacy of the goddess Radha.[3]
He delivers public spiritual discourses (satsangs) and hosts private question-and-answer sessions known as Ekantik Vartalap at his ashram, Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj, in Vrindavan.[4] Over the late 2010s and early 2020s, recordings of his discourses gained traction on digital platforms such as YouTube, drawing a demographic of young adults and urban professionals.[5] He has maintained a daily routine of public engagement despite experiencing complete kidney failure, requiring daily dialysis for over fifteen years.[6]
Early life and background[edit | edit source]
Premanand Maharaj was born as Aniruddh Kumar Pandey[7] on 30 March 1971 in Akhri, a rural village located in the Sarsaul administrative block of the Kanpur district in Uttar Pradesh. He was born into a Brahmin family. His father, Shambhu Pandey, was involved in devotional practices, and his mother, Rama Devi, was a homemaker who regularly hosted wandering saints.[8][9]
His family had a tradition of asceticism and scripture reading. His grandfather had previously renounced household life to take Sannyasa (asceticism), and his elder brother regularly recited verses from the Shrimad Bhagavatam. According to biographical accounts, Aniruddh was exposed to Hindu scriptures at an early age. By the time he was in the fifth grade, he had begun reading the Bhagavad Gita and the Shri Sukhsagar, displaying an early interest in monastic life.[10]
Spiritual journey[edit | edit source]
Asceticism in Varanasi[edit | edit source]
At the age of 13, Aniruddh left his home in Kanpur to pursue a monastic life. He adopted the vows of a naishthik brahmachari (a lifelong celibate ascetic) and relocated to Varanasi (Kashi), a major religious centre in Uttar Pradesh.[1]
During his time in Varanasi, he lived primarily on the ghats along the Ganga river. Within the monastic community, he was initially given the name Anandswaroop Brahmachari and was later addressed as Swami Anandashram after undergoing further initiation.[8] For several years, he engaged in traditional ascetic practices, which included meditation, studying classical Hindu philosophy, and sustaining himself solely on bhiksha (alms) collected from local residents. According to profiles on his life, his routine in Varanasi involved prolonged periods of fasting and solitude, characteristic of the Shaiva and Vedantic monastic traditions prevalent in the city.[10]
Relocation to Vrindavan[edit | edit source]
Following his period of asceticism in Varanasi, he relocated to Vrindavan, a theological centre of Krishna-centric Vaishnavism. According to narratives from his ashram, this relocation was prompted by an encounter with a fellow monk who advised him to visit Vrindavan to observe the Ras Leela traditions.[5]
Upon arriving in Vrindavan, his early routine consisted of performing the Vrindavan Parikrama (circumambulation of the town) and visiting the Bankey Bihari Temple. He was later introduced to the Shri Radha Vallabh Mandir, which significantly influenced his theological outlook.[4]
Initiation into Radha Vallabh Sampradaya[edit | edit source]
He formally joined the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya, a Hindu denomination founded in the 16th century by the mystic Hith Harivansh Mahaprabhu. This tradition diverges from other Vaishnava sects by placing supreme theological importance on Radha, viewing Krishna as subservient to her divine love (Rasopasana).[3]
_Premanad_ji_Maharaj(right)_Vrindavan_007.jpg)
He received his formal initiation (diksha) and the Sharanagati Mantra from his spiritual master, Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj.[11] It was during this initiation that he abandoned his previous monastic titles and adopted the name Shri Hit Premanand Govind Sharan.[5]
Ashram and operations[edit | edit source]
He is the head of the Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj, an ashram located at Varaha Ghat on the Parikrama Marg in Vrindavan. The ashram serves as the central hub for his spiritual discourses and the philanthropic activities of the Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Trust.[8]
The daily routine at the ashram begins early, with him conducting the morning satsang (spiritual discourse) between 4:15 AM and 5:45 AM. Following this, the ashram hosts Ekantik Vartalap (exclusive conversations), where visitors who have pre-registered ask specific questions related to spirituality, ethics, and personal struggles.
The trust manages several charitable initiatives in the Braj region. This includes a daily Bhandara (community kitchen) that provides free meals to visiting pilgrims, sadhus (ascetics), and local widows. The ashram also operates free medical dispensaries and distributes clothing to the underprivileged. The ashram maintains a policy of not providing preferential seating or fast-track entry for politicians, celebrities, or wealthy donors; all attendees sit together on the floor during discourses.[2] In recent years, the ashram has issued public advisories warning devotees against fraudulent organizations soliciting donations or selling property in his name, reiterating that all services at Radha Keli Kunj are free.[8]
Teachings and philosophy[edit | edit source]
His teachings are anchored in the theology of the Radha Vallabh Sampradaya. His primary instruction revolves around Radha-Dasyam—the concept of selfless servitude to the goddess Radha, whom the sect considers the absolute supreme deity.
A central element of his discourse is Naam Japa, the continuous internal repetition of the divine name "Radha" with every breath, which he teaches as the most accessible path to spiritual liberation in the current age of Kali Yuga. He also emphasizes brahmacharya (celibacy) and sensory control, frequently addressing younger audiences on the spiritual and psychological discipline of redirecting physical energies toward religious devotion.[12][10] Additionally, during his Ekantik Vartalap sessions, he advises individuals experiencing personal or occupational distress to apply the principle of Nishkam Karma (selfless action) by performing their worldly duties without attachment to the results, relying instead entirely on divine will (Sharanagati).
Spiritual accounts and teachings[edit | edit source]
In his public discourses, he has shared personal encounters that he states shaped his spiritual journey.[13] While observing austerities as a sannyasi in Varanasi under the vow of akash-vritti—a monastic practice of relying entirely on providence without begging for food—he recounted experiencing a vision (darshan) of the Hindu deity Shiva. According to him, this encounter acted as a catalyst, directing him to relocate to Vrindavan and dedicate his life to the worship of Radha and Krishna.
His teachings often utilize these encounters to impart spiritual lessons. He has recounted an incident on the banks of the Ganges where an intoxicated man approached him and taught him the value of spiritual endurance (titiksha). The man pointed to a nearby temple, noting that both the worshipped deity and the floor were made of the exact same marble; however, only the stone that endured the painful strikes of the sculptor's hammer became divine.[14]
Other subtle interventions central to his public discourses include a local girl in Vrindavan whose brief question in the regional dialect—"Jayego baba?" (Will you go, baba?)—prompted him to change his plans to leave the town. Additionally, he describes an encounter during the rigorous Dandavat Parikrama around Govardhan Hill, where a young boy asking for a single rupee was interpreted by him and his guru as a manifestation of Krishna.[15]
Public presence and media[edit | edit source]
While traditional saints of the Radha Vallabh sect historically preferred solitude and obscurity, he has gained a large public following due to the proliferation of his videos on social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram. His official YouTube channel, Bhajan Marg, broadcasts his daily discourses and Q&A sessions to millions of subscribers.[6]
His method of directly addressing modern psychological and lifestyle issues through the lens of traditional Hindu scriptures has attracted a demographic of young professionals. Consequently, his ashram has become a frequent destination for high-profile public figures seeking guidance.[1]
Notable visitors to Radha Keli Kunj include former Indian national cricket team captain Virat Kohli and his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma,[16] whose visits received media coverage when they were photographed sitting barefoot on the floor alongside other attendees.[17][18] Other prominent figures who have publicly met with him include Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, singer B Praak, and actress Shilpa Shetty.[6]
Social views and reception[edit | edit source]
Comments on temple attire[edit | edit source]
In November 2024, during a question-and-answer session with a temple priest regarding women wearing short clothing in temples, Premanand stated that individuals should first discipline their own gaze rather than confronting visitors about their attire. He added that religious guidance on dress should only be offered when specifically sought.[19]
2025 remarks on relationships[edit | edit source]
In July 2025, a video circulated on social media in which Premanand spoke on contemporary relationships and sexual morality. In the recording, he commented on marital fidelity, questioned whether individuals with multiple prior partners could maintain faithful marriages, and criticized live-in relationships.[20]
The remarks drew criticism from sections of the public, social commentators, and women's rights organizations, while several religious figures expressed support for his views.[21] Following the public discussion surrounding his statements, local media reported that a death threat against him was posted on Facebook.[22]
Health condition[edit | edit source]
He has been diagnosed with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD), a genetic disorder that causes clusters of cysts to develop within the kidneys. This condition resulted in complete kidney failure approximately 15 to 20 years ago.[6] He undergoes daily dialysis treatments that last up to five hours.[1]
Since being diagnosed, numerous devotees have offered to donate their kidneys for a transplant. In September 2024, British-Indian businessman Raj Kundra publicly offered to donate a kidney to the ascetic.[23] However, he has consistently declined all organ donation offers. He has publicly stated his refusal to cause physical harm or discomfort to another individual for his own survival, expressing a preference to accept his physical deterioration as the will of God.[1]
Bibliography[edit | edit source]
Several compilations of his teachings and discourses have been published under the Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Trust:
- Brahmcharya - Kab, Kyon aur Kaise? (2025) – ISBN 978-81-980039-1-1
- Celibacy - When, why and how? (2025) – ISBN 978-81-980039-0-4
- Shri Hit Harivansh Charitamrit (2025) – ISBN 978-81-980039-9-7
- Spiritual Awakening (Vol 1) (2024) – ISBN 978-81-971056-5-4
- 365 Divine Sutras Quotation (2026) – ISBN 978-81-996765-1-0
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 "Who is Premanand Ji Maharaj, whom devotees are offering their kidney?". India Today. 14 October 2024. Retrieved 21 August 2026.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Growing inclination towards more inclusive and personal understanding of spirituality: Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj". The Times of India. 1 February 2024. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "वृन्दावन वाले प्रेमानंद महाराज किस संप्रदाय से ताल्लुक रखते हैं? जानें सिर्फ पीले वस्त्र ही क्यों पहनते हैं".
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "आध्यात्मिक साधकों के पथप्रदर्शक बने हुए हैं नैष्ठिक ब्रह्मचारी प्रेमानंद जी महाराज". Lokmat News Hindi (in हिन्दी). 6 February 2024. Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "Premanand Maharaj: A Spiritual Guide from Vrindavan". Bru Times News. Retrieved 21 August 2026.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 "Premanand Ji Maharaj Health Update: What Is Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Explained". Zee News. 29 October 2024. Retrieved 21 August 2026.
{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ↑ Live, A. B. P. (24 May 2023). "प्रेमानंद जी महाराज वृंदावन का जीवन परिचय जान आप रह जाएंगे हैरान, यहां पढ़ें इनकी जीवनी". ABP News (in हिन्दी). Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 "Premanand Ji Maharaj: Biography, Pravachan & Ashram Address". YatraDham. 24 June 2025. Retrieved 21 August 2026.
- ↑ Live, A. B. P. (2 August 2023). "प्रेमानंद जी महाराज का क्या है असली नाम, कैसे बनें संन्यासी, जानिए वृंदावन वाले प्रेमानंद महारा". ABP News (in हिन्दी). Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 "The Spiritual Journey Of Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj". The Free Press Journal. 12 February 2024. Retrieved 21 August 2026.
- ↑ "समस्त शास्त्रों में गुरु की उपयोगिता तथा महत्ता : प्रेमानंद गोविन्द शरण महाराज | Mathura Vrindavan Premanand Maharaj Guru". Patrika News (in हिन्दी). 2 February 2024. Archived from the original on 21 August 2026. Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ "Reviving the Tradition Of Brahmacharya: A Call For Modern Youth". Archived from the original on 30 May 2024.
- ↑ "भगवान शिव के आदेश पर काशी से वृंदावन आए बाबा प्रेमानंद महाराज, अस्सी घाट पर मुर्दे ने क्या कहा उनसे | Premanand Maharaj Came To Vrindavan From Kashi On The Orders Of Shiva". Patrika News (in हिन्दी). 23 December 2023. Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ Sharma, Hema. "शराबी से मिला था प्रेमानंद को असली ज्ञान, महाराज ने भक्तों को खुद सुनाया किस्सा". News24 Hindi (in हिन्दी). Retrieved 27 August 2026.
- ↑ "प्रेमानंद महाराज ने तीसरी बार शुरू की गोवर्धन परिक्रमा, खराब स्वास्थ्य में भी अटूट आस्था, भक्त बोल उठे राधे-राधे". Navbharat Times (in हिन्दी). Retrieved 27 August 2026.
- ↑ "Meet Premanand Maharaj Who Shared Amazing Spiritual Wisdom With Virat Kohli And Anushka Sharma". TimesNow. 14 May 2025. Retrieved 31 August 2026.
- ↑ "Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma visit Premanand Ji Maharaj's ashram in less than 6 months. Watch". The Indian Express. 22 July 2026. Retrieved 27 August 2026.
- ↑ "Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma spotted barefoot in Vrindavan after visiting Premanand Ji Maharaj on Wednesday, videos go viral on the internet - WATCH". The Times of India. 22 July 2026. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 27 August 2026.
- ↑ "'मंदिर में छोटे कपड़े पहनकर आती हैं कुछ लड़कियां...' पुजारी के सवाल पर प्रेमानंद महाराज ने दिया ये जवाब". www.livehindustan.com (in हिन्दी). 30 November 2024. Retrieved 29 August 2026.
- ↑ Kumar, Nilesh (28 July 2025). "अनिरुद्धाचार्य के बाद ये क्या बोल गए प्रेमानंदजी महाराज?". ndtv.in/india/.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ↑ Mishra, Shubhankar (30 July 2025). "Premanand Maharaj Controversy: महिलाओं और Live In Relationship पर टिप्पणी | Shubhankar Mishra | NDTV". ndtv.in.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link) - ↑ "समाजात गर्लफ्रेण्ड-बॉयफ्रेण्ड-ब्रेकअप वाढलेत, प्रेमानंद महाराजांचं मत; चिडलेल्या तरुणाची शिरच्छेदाची धमकी". Maharashtra Times (in मराठी). Retrieved 29 August 2026.
- ↑ "'Meri hai, main kisiko bhi doon': Raj Kundra on donating kidney to Premanand Ji Maharaj, who has been on a 5-hour daily dialysis for 20 years due to renal failure". The Indian Express. 4 September 2025. Retrieved 27 August 2026.