Premanand Ji Maharaj, born as Aniruddh Kumar Pandey in the early 1970s, grew up in Akhri village of Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh. His family came from a devout Brahmin lineage, with his grandfather having renounced the world as a sanyasi. His father, Shambhunath Pandey, and mother, Rama Devi, were known for their discipline, simplicity, and dedication to spiritual values. This deeply religious environment shaped his childhood, making devotion a natural part of his life. By the time most children were learning to play, young Aniruddh was chanting bhajans, reading scriptures, and spending long hours in prayer. At just 13, he made the life-altering decision to leave home in search of a higher truth.
Early Life and Family of Premanand Ji Maharaj
- Birth Name: Aniruddh Kumar Pandey
- Birth Year: Circa 1970–1972
- Birthplace: Akhri Village, Sarsaul Block, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
- Parents: Shambhunath Pandey (father), Rama Devi (mother)
- Family Tradition: Rooted in spiritual practice, with ancestral ties to renunciation
His decision to walk away from a regular life at such a young age was inspired not only by his family traditions but also by a personal calling. It was a step that would eventually lead him to Vrindavan the city of devotion where his spiritual identity truly took shape.
Guru and Spiritual Path
The most defining moment in his journey came when he met Pujya Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj, a highly respected saint of the Radhavallabh sect. This tradition places Radha at the center of worship and sees devotion as the highest form of love. Under his guru guidance, Premanand Ji Maharaj embraced a life of humility, selfless service, and deep bhakti. Over time, he emerged as a spiritual leader in his own right, drawing people with his clear, compassionate style of teaching.
Ashram and Teachings
His ashram, Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj in Vrindavan, sits peacefully by the Yamuna river. It serves as a place for satsangs, kirtans, meditation, and community service. Devotees describe it as a sanctuary where the noise of daily life fades into the sound of devotional music.
Core principles of his teachings include:
- True happiness comes from inner peace, not material wealth.
- Chanting God’s name with sincerity can wash away ego, greed, and fear.
- Service should be selfless, without expecting any return.
- Surrender to divine will is the key to a content life.
Influence and Reach
Premanand Ji Maharaj influence extends far beyond Vrindavan. His words resonate with both ordinary devotees and public figures most notably Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, who have visited his ashram seeking guidance. His advice remains the same regardless of status: wealth and fame are fleeting; faith, humility, and gratitude endure.
Many who hear him speak leave feeling lighter, as though they have set down years of burdens. Without relying on aggressive publicity, his following continues to grow through personal connections and the quiet power of his message. In a world often driven by self-promotion, Premanand Ji Maharaj stands apart as a saint whose life reflects the purity of his words.
