Disciple of Premanand Maharaj dies after fall at Vrindavan ashram; suicide suspected

A disciple of Sant Premanand Maharaj has died after falling from the fourth floor of an ashram in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, in what police are treating as a suspected suicide.

The man was identified as Deepak Lodhi, also known as Rasik Dulari Sharan, a resident of Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. He was staying at the Guru Kripa Kunj Ashram, which is associated with Keli Kunj.

According to a senior police officer, information was received in the morning that an injured person had been admitted to a hospital. On inquiring, officers learned the man's identity and his connection to the ashram.

Police said Lodhi is believed to have jumped from the fourth floor at around 10:30 am. He sustained severe injuries to his head and other parts of his body, and his private parts were severed.

Evidence has been collected from the spot, and Lodhi's family members have been informed, the officer said.

Premanand Maharaj, born Aniruddha Kumar Pandey, adopted his name after devoting his life to the worship of Radha and Krishna. He belongs to the Radhavallabh sect and has gained a following beyond Vrindavan for his accessible spiritual discourses.

His daily satsang at the ashram, known as Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj, draws hundreds of devotees from India and abroad, and he has a substantial presence on social media.

Those in distress or seeking mental health support can contact the Vandrevala Foundation for Mental Health at 9999666555 or help@vandrevalafoundation.com, or TISS iCall at 022-25521111 (Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 10 pm).