Premanand Ji Maharaj, a revered spiritual leader, overcame extreme hardships to guide millions through his teachings. Learn about Premanand Ji Maharaj’s age, ashram life, and powerful discourses that continue to inspire devotees worldwide.
Who is Premanand Ji Maharaj and Why His Story Inspires Millions
Premanand Ji Maharaj is a revered saint and spiritual guide whose life has inspired millions in India and around the world. Known for his deep devotion, unmatched stamina and divine wisdom, his journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to becoming a globally respected spiritual guru is truly remarkable. Despite major health challenges – including complete kidney failure – he lives a life of devotion and service. This article traces his early life, spiritual transformation, teachings and his current role in the upliftment of society.
Spiritual Calling from Childhood
Born in 1969 in Akhri, the last village in the Sarsaul block of Kanpur district, Premanand Ji Maharaj’s birth name was Anirudh Kumar Pandey. His spiritual journey began at an early age, he grew up in a religious Brahmin family. His father Shri Shambhunath Pandey and his mother Smt. Rama Devi instilled deep religious values ​​in him. At the age of five, he was immersed in bhajan and kirtan, and had an extraordinary interest in scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana.
At the age of just 13, Aniruddha Kumar took the bold decision of leaving home in search of God. Despite his mother’s emotional insistence, he rose above worldly attachments and set out alone in search of spiritual truth.
Early Struggles and Renunciation in Varanasi
After leaving home, he wandered in search of spiritual guidance and eventually settled in Varanasi. Here he led a life of extreme austerity – bathing in the Ganga, meditating under the peepal tree at Tulsi Ghat and begging for food only once a day. Sometimes, he would go without food and survive only on Ganga water. Despite these hardships, his determination remained unwavering.
During this period he took the initiation of celibacy and was named Anandaswaroop Brahmachari. Later, after receiving the Mahavakya initiation, he became Swami Anandashram and continued his spiritual journey with greater intensity.
Divine Inclination Towards Vrindavan
One day, while meditating in Varanasi, a sudden desire made him think of Vrindavan – a place he had only heard about. This thought, which he believed was inspired by Lord Shiva, eventually changed the direction of his life. A saint invited him to witness the Sri Chaitanya Leela and Raas Leela at the local Blind University. Though initially he hesitated, he accepted it, believing it to be God’s will.
Soon after, Premanand Ji Maharaj moved to Vrindavan, the land of Radha and Krishna, and took formal initiation into the Radhavallabh sect. Here, he received the Sharangati Mantra from Goswami Sri Hit Mohit Maral Ji and later met his Sadguru, Sri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj, affectionately known as Bade Guruji. Under his guidance, Premanand Ji Maharaj received the Nij Mantra and delved deeply into the Sahachari Bhava and Nitya Vihara Rasa traditions of devotion.
Premanand Ji Maharaj Ashram and Teachings
Today, Premanand Ji Maharaj heads the Sri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan, a spiritual retreat for devotees. Established in 2016, the ashram provides food, shelter, and spiritual guidance to pilgrims. His discourses are very influential, encouraging listeners to maintain celibacy, uphold character, and lead a spiritually meaningful life. He emphasizes the role of a true guru in one’s life and believes that spirituality should go beyond rituals and become a way of life.
Controversy and Response with Dignity
In June 2024, Premanand Ji Maharaj found himself in the headlines after he addressed statements made by narrator Pradeep Mishra about the birthplace of Radha Rani. Strongly disagreeing, he called the comments misinformation and urged Mishra to study the scriptures and seek the company of rasik saints to understand the essence of Radha Tattva. The issue attracted widespread attention, culminating in Pradeep Mishra tendering an apology at the Radha Rani temple in Barsana on June 29, 2024.
Conclusion: A life that Continues to Inspire
From sleeping in wheat sacks in harsh winters to becoming one of the most revered saints of the Radhavallabh tradition, Premanand Ji Maharaj’s story is one of divine endurance and unwavering faith. His life teaches that even the most difficult paths can lead to spiritual awakening with devotion, discipline and the grace of a true guru. Despite serious health troubles – such as failure of both kidneys – he continues to guide thousands of people through his discourses and personal example of inner strength.
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