Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji is a great Radhavallabh saint who has spread spiritual awareness in society through the path of renunciation, devotion, and spiritual practice.
Premanand Maharaj: The land of India has been the land of saints, sages, and ascetics. Many saints have taken birth here and provided spiritual direction to society. One such great saint is Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj, known to his followers as 'Premanand Maharaj.' His life is full of celibacy, spiritual practice, and devotion.
Early Life: From Childhood Towards Renunciation
Shri Premanand Ji was born on March 30, 1969, in Akhari village of Sarsaul block in the Kanpur district of Uttar Pradesh. His birth name was Anirudh Kumar Pandey. His parents – Shri Shambhu Pandey and Smt. Rama Devi – were religious-minded. At the age of 13, he renounced worldly attachments and adopted the path of renunciation. This decision was taken following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who himself lived a renunciate life.
The Journey of Self-Discovery: From the Banks of the Ganges to Vrindavan
After embracing renunciation, he was named 'Anand Swaroop Brahmachari.' Some time later, he received the name 'Swami Anandashram.' He spent a long time on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi, engaged in spiritual practice, meditation, and self-discovery. It was here, one day, while sitting in meditation under a peepal tree, that a saint – Pandit Swami Shri Ram Sharma – invited him to watch the Rasleela. After refusing several times, he finally accepted it as God's will. This was the moment that changed the direction of his life.
Initiation into the Radhavallabh Sect
After this divine experience, Premanand Ji Maharaj entered the Radhavallabh sect. A Radhavallabhi Goswami gave him the 'Sharanagati Mantra,' which is the first step of initiation in this sect. After this, he met Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj (also known as 'Bade Guruji'). Bade Guruji gave him the 'Nij Mantra,' through which he experienced 'Sahachari Bhava' and 'Nitya Vihar Ras.' From this moment, Premanand Ji Maharaj was included in the category of Rasik saints.
Gurudev: Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj
Shri Hit Gaurangi Sharan Ji Maharaj is considered the highest knower of Sahachari Bhava. He is a distinguished saint who has made his disciples proficient in love, devotion, and spiritual discipline. Premanand Ji received the guidance of Bade Guruji on the spiritual path of his life, which established him as a saint.
Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Trust: A Center of Service and Dedication
In the year 2016, 'Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Trust' was established by Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj. This is a non-profit organization whose objective is to serve, uplift, and propagate religion in society. This trust provides facilities for accommodation, food, clothing, medical care, Satsang, Bhajan, and Katha for pilgrims in Vrindavan. This trust has become a spiritual shelter where devotees can spend time in an atmosphere of peace, service, and spiritual practice.
Premanand Ji's Teachings and Philosophy
Premanand Ji Maharaj's teachings are very simple, influential, and useful at every level of life. He believes that spirituality is the essence of life and the Guru is the guide of life. He believes that:
- Observing celibacy is essential for mental, physical, and spiritual health. It makes life balanced, sattvic, and elevated.
- Character is the greatest asset of a person. Wicked tendencies are harmful to both life and society.
- Gurus are the ones who give direction, discipline, and inspiration in life.
- Spiritual power not only develops the soul but also maintains social harmony.
Literary Contribution
Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj is not only a saint but also a writer. He has written many important books on spiritual subjects which are helpful in guiding devotees on the path of spiritual practice:
- Brahmacharya (2019) – A serious reflection on the importance of celibacy in life.
- Ekantik Vartalap (2019) – Guidance on communicating with the soul in solitude.
- Hit Sadguru Dev Ke Vachanamrit (2020) – A collection of Guru's words, which provides direction to the seeker.
- Ashtayam Seva Paddhati (2020) – A detailed description of the service method of the Radha-Vallabh sect.
- Spiritual Awakening – Vol. 1 (2024) – Published in English, which discusses the dimensions of spiritual awakening.
The Saint's Perspective: Message for Society
Premanand Ji believes that the purpose of spirituality is not only individual salvation but also the upliftment of society. He emphasizes devotion, service, and character building, away from worldly pomp. His life is an inspiration to the youth on how a person can become a pillar of light in society through restraint, spiritual practice, and service.
Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj presents an ideal before society as a saint, teacher, guide, and servant. His life is a symbol of sacrifice, penance, love, and service. He is an inspiration not only for those who walk on the religious path but also for all those who are in search of peace, balance, and truth in life. His teachings, institutions, and literary works establish him in the category of a yugpurush (man of the era). He is a symbol of the revival of devotion and celibacy in today's era.
