2025.02.09 (Vrindavan Today News): Sant Premanand Govind Sharan has now discontinued his nightly padyatra conducted at 2:00 AM. The padyatra was an event that was affecting Vrindavan’s spiritual landscape. The padyatra attracted thousands of devotees from around the country, who wanted to have a glimpse of the sant known for his discourses on social media. Additionally, the sant has ceased passing by the NRI Green Colony, following objections raised by its residents regarding disturbances caused by the large gathering of devotees.
Previously, Sant Premanand would embark on his padyatra from Shri Krishna Sharanam, located on Chhattikara Road, and traverse through various neighborhoods before reaching his ashram, Shri Radha Keli Kunj in Raman Reti. However, citing concerns over the escalating crowd and his own health, the sant has indefinitely suspended this ritual.
Community Concerns and the Decision to Modify the Route
Residents of the NRI Green Colony had expressed grievances about the noise generated by the large congregations accompanying the saint. The constant influx of devotees and the resulting commotion reportedly disrupted their sleep, leading to discontent within the community. In response to these concerns, as well as considerations regarding his personal well-being, Sant Premanand made the decision to alter his routine.
Instead of the padyatra conducted at 2:00 AM, the sant now commutes to his ashram by car at 4:00 AM. To further mitigate conflicts, he has shifted his route, opting to pass through the area in front of Prem Mandir instead of the contested Sunrakh road.
The suspension of the saint’s nightly journey has had a noticeable impact on Vrindavan’s religious ecosystem. Previously, between 10,000 and 12,000 devotees would accompany Saint Premanand on his early morning padyatra, using the opportunity to seek his blessings and participate in the spiritual atmosphere.
A New Route and Adjusted Routine
On Saturday, instead of passing through NRI Green Colony, Saint Premanand’s entourage took a new route via Prem Mandir and Raman Reti Police Chowki before reaching Shri Radha Keli Kunj. Upon arriving near the ashram, he was greeted by a gathering of devotees eagerly awaiting his blessings.
Despite the alterations, Sant Premanand continues to maintain his spiritual engagement with followers. Upon reaching his ashram, he briefly stepped out of his vehicle, walked a few steps to interact with his devotees, and then proceeded inside.
A Delicate Balance Between Devotion and Civic Harmony
This episode underscores the challenges of balancing large-scale religious processions with the practical concerns of urban residents. While Vrindavan remains a sacred hub for spiritual seekers, its evolving demographics have introduced new dynamics that require negotiation between tradition and modernity.
Sant Premanand’s decision to adjust his pilgrimage reflects a willingness to respect the concerns of local residents while still maintaining his connection with thousands of devotees. The spiritual community now awaits further developments to see if a more sustainable solution can be found to accommodate both devotion and civic order in this holy city.
