Premanand Ji Maharaj is one of India’s most revered spiritual figures. Hailing from a simple village in Uttar Pradesh, he embraced monastic life at an early age and dedicated himself to Radha‑Krishna devotion. Over decades, his heartfelt satsangs (spiritual talks), powerful kirtans (devotional singing), and message of inner transformation have drawn millions to his ashrams in Vrindavan and beyond. In This article we explores his life story, core teachings, remarkable health journey, and lasting impact on seekers worldwide.
Early Life and Family Background
| Birth Name | Aniruddh Kumar Pandey |
| Date of birth | 30 March,1969 |
| Place of Birth | Akhri village, Sarsaul Block, Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh |
Aniruddh was born into a pious Brahmin family. His father, Shambhu Pandey, ran a small grocery shop, while his mother, Rama Devi, managed the household and instilled in him a love for bhajans (devotional songs) and temple visits. The family’s devotion to Lord Krishna and early exposure to local saints sparked Aniruddh’s spiritual curiosity from childhood.
A Thirst for Truth: Leaving Home at 13
At the age of 13, Aniruddh felt an overwhelming pull toward spiritual life. With his parents’ reluctant blessing, he left home and travelled to Varanasi, the ancient city on the banks of the Ganges. There, he practiced:
- Meditation for several hours each day
- Regular fasting and simple vegetarian diet
- Chanting of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra
Under the guidance of local sadhus (holy men), he gradually gave up worldly attachments and took on the robes of a monk (Brahmachari), renouncing material comforts.
Meeting His Guru in Vrindavan
While meditating under a Peepal tree near the Ganga, Aniruddh experienced a profound inner calling to visit Vrindavan, the land of Krishna’s childhood pastimes. In Vrindavan, he met Pujya Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj, affectionately known as “Bade Guruji.” Under his tutelage, Aniruddh received:
- Initiation into Sannyasa (formal renunciation)
- New spiritual names: first “Swami Anandashram,” later “Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj”
- Training in Radhavallabh Sampradaya—a lineage emphasizing the sweet pastimes of Radha and Krishna
For over a decade, he served his guru, learning the art of devotional singing, scriptural study, and compassion-driven service.
Core Teachings Made Simple
Premanand Ji Maharaj’s message appeals to people from all walks of life. His main teachings include:
- Bhakti Over Everything: True happiness comes from loving devotion to Radha‑Krishna, not material success.
- Surrender and Trust: Let go of ego and control; trust divine will in every situation.
- Practice Daily Satsang: Gather with like‑minded souls for kirtan, scripture reading, and heartfelt prayer.
- Compassion and Service: Serve others selflessly; this purifies the heart and deepens spiritual awareness.
- Detachment from Negativity: Avoid anger, jealousy, and greed; cultivate patience and humility.
He often says,
“Wealth and fame vanish, but devotion stays with you forever.”
A Modern-Day Miracle: Living Without Kidneys
One of the most astonishing aspects of Premanand Ji Maharaj’s life is his health journey:
- Lost both kidneys due to an illness in his twenties.
- Refused dialysis and transplant surgery, trusting in God’s grace.
- Survived 18 years without medical intervention—something medical experts call “unexplained.”
He attributes his vitality to strict regimen: daily meditation, controlled diet, and unwavering faith. Devotees see this as a living testament to the power of surrender and divine protection.
Ashrams and Daily Routine
His main seat is Shri Radha Keli Kunj Ashram, located near the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan. Thousands visit every day. A typical daily schedule:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 4:15 AM | Morning satsang |
| 5:45 AM | Mangal Aarti (sunrise ceremony) |
| 6:30 AM | Bhajan & scripture reading |
| 7:00 – 9:30 AM | Naam Sankirtan & Q&A session |
| Evening | Evening kirtan & arati |
He also leads special events:
- Vrindavan Parikrama (circumambulation of holy sites)
- Braj 84 Kosh Yatra, a month‑long pilgrimage traversing 84 ancient landmarks
Famous Visitors: Virat Kohli & Anushka Sharma
In May 2025, cricket superstar Virat Kohli and actor Anushka Sharma visited Premanand Ji Maharaj. Their key takeaways:
- Peace over Performance: He reminded them that mental peace matters more than records.
- Simple Guru Mantra: He gave them a short prayer to chant daily for focus and humility.
- Personalized Guidance: Advised Anushka on balancing career pressures with home life.
Media outlets widely covered this meeting, bringing Premanand Ji’s message to a global audience.
Global Reach and Social Impact
- Instagram Followers: 13 million+
- YouTube Subscribers: 9 million+
- Facebook Fans: 1 million+
Each year, his ashrams host hundreds of thousands of visitors. During Nirjala Ekadashi 2025, over 800,000 devotees gathered in Vrindavan, leading authorities to pause the yatra for safety.
Beyond spiritual talks, his charitable initiatives include:
- Free medical camps in rural villages
- Food distribution during festivals
- Educational scholarships for underprivileged children
Legacy and Continuing Mission
Premanand Ji Maharaj’s life is a powerful example of:
- Inner strength born from devotion
- Compassionate leadership through service
- Universal appeal beyond castes, creeds, and nationalities
He continues to travel across India and abroad, leading retreats in the UK, USA, and Australia. His simple yet profound message—“Live for love, not for yourself”—resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced world.
Conclusion
From a curious boy in Kanpur to a globally admired spiritual master, Premanand Ji Maharaj’s journey underscores the potency of faith, discipline, and surrender. His unwavering devotion to Radha‑Krishna, miraculous health story, and tireless service work inspire seekers everywhere. As his followers grow by the millions, his teachings offer a timeless roadmap to inner peace and lasting happiness—reminding us that true wealth lies not in possessions, but in the depths of the heart.
