Premanand Maharaj, the highly respected spiritual leader from Vrindavan, is currently facing a severe health crisis that has raised significant concern among his millions of followers worldwide. The renowned saint, known for his dedication to spiritual teachings and his daily padayatra (spiritual walk), has had to suspend his public activities due to worsening health. This move has deeply affected his devotees, sparking widespread concern about his well-being and raising questions about his ongoing spiritual journey amidst such adversity.
Health Crisis in October 2025: A Turning Point
In early October 2025, Premanand Maharaj’s health took a dramatic and concerning turn. His condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to the official suspension of his renowned daily padayatra on October 4, 2025. The announcement came through a statement issued by Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Ashram, which confirmed that Maharaj’s 4 AM pilgrimage from Sri Krishna Sharanam Society to the ashram would be paused indefinitely due to health complications.
Recent footage shared on social media has shown a visibly weakened Premanand Maharaj, with swollen eyes that struggle to open fully, a reddened and puffed-up face, and a shaky voice. Despite the physical toll, Maharaj has continued to conduct private spiritual sessions, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his devotees and his work.
Premanand Maharaj’s Battle with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
Premanand Maharaj has been suffering from Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) since 2006, a condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, slowly impairing their function. This genetic disorder has led to complete kidney failure in both of his kidneys, and he is now required to undergo daily dialysis sessions that last 4-5 hours. Initially, he had to undergo dialysis five times a week, but his condition worsened, necessitating daily dialysis treatments.
In a deeply spiritual gesture, Maharaj has named his kidneys “Krishna” and “Radha,” symbolizing his devotional perspective on his medical battle. This reflects his holistic approach to health, where he integrates spirituality into his healing process.
Advanced Medical Care and Infrastructure at Premanand Maharaj’s Residence
Maharaj’s medical care is managed at his residence in Sri Krishna Sharanam Society, where he occupies two flats. One of these flats serves as his living space, while the other has been converted into a fully equipped dialysis center, allowing Maharaj to receive treatment at home rather than requiring frequent hospital visits. His medical care is provided by a team of six doctors, who are dedicated to ensuring his well-being. This team includes specialists from different fields, including a cardiologist from Australia who relocated to Vrindavan specifically to provide care for the saint.
The decision to have a home-based dialysis center highlights the severity of Maharaj’s condition and the deep commitment of his medical team. This setup allows for continuous, personalized care in a familiar environment, which is crucial given Maharaj’s delicate health.
Considerations for Kidney Transplant
Medical experts have suggested that a kidney transplant may be the only permanent solution for Premanand Maharaj’s condition. Several prominent devotees, including businessman Raj Kundra, have offered to donate their kidneys to Maharaj. However, Maharaj has consistently declined these offers, accepting his medical condition as a part of his spiritual journey. His decision to not undergo a transplant underscores his belief in accepting divine will and the spiritual path, even in the face of severe physical challenges.
Impact on Spiritual Activities and Daily Routine
The suspension of Premanand Maharaj’s daily padayatra has had a profound impact on his massive following. Typically, thousands of devotees would gather along his 2-kilometer walking route, with daily crowds reaching around 20,000 and up to 300,000 during major festivals. The sudden halt of these spiritual processions has left many devotees waiting in hopes of Maharaj’s return, creating a somber atmosphere in Vrindavan.
Local businesses that relied on the daily presence of these devotees have also been significantly impacted. Street vendors and shop owners have reported a sharp decline in sales due to the absence of the usual large crowds, affecting the local economy.
Continued Private Spiritual Sessions Despite Health Struggles
Despite his severe physical condition, Premanand Maharaj has continued to provide spiritual guidance through private sessions known as “Ekantik Varta.” These intimate gatherings allow him to share his teachings with select devotees while conserving his energy. These sessions are a testament to Maharaj’s resilience and his deep commitment to his followers, even when faced with intense physical suffering.
Addressing Misinformation: Clarifying False Claims
Recently, viral videos circulating on social media falsely claimed that Premanand Maharaj had been hospitalized or admitted to an intensive care unit. During a private spiritual session on October 8, 2025, Maharaj addressed these rumors directly. He clarified, “Those who say I am hospitalized should observe that I continue private discussions and remain healthy.”
Maharaj also used the occasion to address the wider issue of misinformation, urging his followers to be cautious about the content they consume online. He stressed that lying has become widespread, and encouraged his devotees to verify information before accepting it as truth. Maharaj called out the role of technology and social media in spreading falsehoods, describing it as a characteristic of the current age, known as Kaliyuga.
Celebrity Devotees and Spiritual Influence
Premanand Maharaj’s influence reaches far beyond his followers in Vrindavan. His spiritual guidance is sought after by numerous celebrities and public figures, including cricket captain Virat Kohli and actress Anushka Sharma, who have been frequently photographed visiting the ashram. Other notable devotees include actress Shilpa Shetty, businessman Raj Kundra, actor Ashutosh Rana, and several singers and entertainment personalities.
The waiting list to meet Maharaj personally extends up to one year, as he typically meets only 50-60 people each day due to his health limitations and the overwhelming demand from his followers.
The Saint’s Unwavering Resilience Despite Physical Weakness
What is perhaps most remarkable about Premanand Maharaj is his unwavering commitment to spirituality despite his severe physical condition. Medical experts have stated that most patients with complete kidney failure do not survive for long, yet Maharaj has maintained an active spiritual life for nearly two decades while undergoing dialysis.
Maharaj’s positive approach to his condition has been highlighted as a key factor in his resilience. Dr. BPS Tyagi, a noted medical professional, remarked, “No disease cures itself. If a patient’s thinking is positive, they win half the battle against the illness.” Maharaj’s ability to accept his condition as divine will rather than a burden is an embodiment of this principle.
Continued Spiritual Teachings Through Adversity
Despite his physical distress, Premanand Maharaj continues to impart spiritual messages to his followers. In a recent video where his physical discomfort was apparent, Maharaj stated, “This has become our practice. Even in suffering, service does not stop. Until we remember our beloved deity, we cannot find peace. God sees our effort, not our excuses.”
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of October 8, 2025, Premanand Maharaj remains at his Vrindavan residence under constant medical supervision. Although his daily padayatra remains suspended indefinitely, he continues to offer spiritual guidance through private sessions. His ashram has requested that devotees maintain patience and focus on praying for his recovery rather than gathering along his usual pilgrimage route.
Premanand Maharaj’s health crisis represents not only a personal challenge but also a significant moment for his millions of followers. His resilience, despite severe physical limitations, continues to inspire many. Through his unwavering commitment to his spiritual duties, Maharaj has demonstrated the profound connection between faith, resilience, and human dignity in the face of illness.
His journey is a powerful reminder of how spiritual leaders navigate the complexities of physical mortality while maintaining their responsibility to serve others. The global outpouring of support for Maharaj reflects both his profound spiritual impact and the deep human connection he has with his followers.
