2025.02.20 (Vrindavan Today News): There have been conflicts between Sant Premananda followers and local inhabitants of Braj (Brajwasis), after the locals objected on the manner of the padyatra conducted every night at 2pm by the sant and his associates (parikars). Thousands of his followers gather on the parikrama marg to have a glimpse of the popular sant.
With conflicts igniting and escalating online, social media platforms, the local brajwasis question the pomp & show staged for the padyatra.
Both the sides are throwing accusations on each other. While Baba ji’s side claims that the local brajwasis are against Premananda Maharaj, and is envious of his popularity, the brajwasis say that there have been scores of sants who lived in Braj for centuries, they never disturbed the inhabitants of Braj.
On behalf of the local brajwasis, Shri Sudhir Shukla wrote an open letter to Sant Premananda ji Maharaj which is as follows:
Respected Shri Premanand Ji Maharaj,
Jai Shri Radhe! Your Holiness reside in the sacred land of Vrindavan, upholding Vaishnav devotion while respecting the traditions and sanctity of Braj culture. As the leader of your congregation, it is your responsibility to ensure that your followers and visitors adhere to the dignity and decorum befitting this holy land.
For centuries, Braj’s inhabitants, including my own family, have extended their unwavering support to saints by offering them shelter, food, and a space for devotional activities. Esteemed saints such as Shri Dhananjay Das Kathia Ji, Santdas Das Nimbarki, Gawariya Baba, and many others have been welcomed and honored by Brajvasis.
Legends such as Haribaba, Udiya Baba, Neeb Karoli Baba, Hathi Baba, Leelanand Thakur, Pagal Baba, Venu Vinod Kunj Baba, Sripad Baba, and Sudama Baba have all been embraced and celebrated by the people of Braj, and this tradition of reverence shall continue. However, we firmly oppose any deviation that compromises the sacred traditions of Braj. Indulgence in frivolous celebrations under the guise of devotion—such as midnight revelry, fireworks, ostentatious displays, and decorative floral arrangements—disrespects the sanctity of this land. These practices are reserved solely for the divine celebrations of the Lord Himself.
In Barsana, the revered saint Vinod Baba continues to conduct his daily Padayatra (foot pilgrimage) with humility and sincerity, devoid of any pomp or spectacle, serving as an exemplary model of devotion.
It is disheartening that certain followers have propagated a false narrative, alleging that Brajvasis oppose the Radhanam Yatra. This claim is entirely untrue. Our objection is not against the Yatra but against the manner in which it is conducted—with unnecessary noise and ostentation. How does spreading falsehoods against the very custodians of Braj align with the principles of Bhakti?
We the Brajwasis make an appeal to you, which you may kindly consider:
1. Respect for Bal Krishna: The people of Braj are ardent devotees of Bal Krishna. Loud drums and blaring instruments during midnight processions disturb the Lord residing in every household. Such disturbances amount to a great offense.
2. Traditional Instruments: The use of loud drums and extravagant musical arrangements is unnecessary. The mridanga, kartal, and manjira—traditional instruments revered by Vaishnavas—are adequate for spiritual elevation and should be used in their place.
3. Reverence for Nature: It is the fundamental belief of Brajvasis that every blade of grass, leaf, and flower is imbued with the presence of Krishna and His divine associates. Even Uddhav Ji, Ashtayami poet Kumbhan Das, and Surdas have sung of their desire to be reborn as mere flora in Braj. Your rigid footwear crushing these sacred elements is unbearable for the true devotees of Braj.
4. Unobstructed Passage: While Padayatras are a noble tradition, they should not completely block main roads. Emergency services must have access at all times to ensure the well-being of all.
5. End to Defamation: Some of your devotees have taken to branding Brajvasis as “global sinners.” This is not only false but also deeply troubling. As a spiritual leader, you are accountable for the actions of your followers. If their words contradict your teachings, then it calls into question the direction in which your guidance is leading them.
Brajvasis hold Sri Radha as their very life force, and you, Sant Premanand Ji, are regarded as one of Her foremost devotees. Numerous videos exist where you have lovingly declared Brajvasis to be your own soul and essence. We reciprocate this love, for saints are the true ornaments of Braj.
Since time immemorial, the people of Braj have stood as steadfast supporters of saints and devotees, and this tradition shall continue. This is the essence of Braj’s culture. We humbly urge you, in the spirit of our revered Acharyas, to ensure that the sanctity of Braj remains pure and untainted.
With folded hands, we, the original inhabitants of Braj, make this earnest plea.
