President Droupadi Murmu Meets Premanand Maharaj at Vrindavan Ashram; Welcomed with “Radhe-Radhe”

Mathura: On the second day of her visit to the Braj region, President Droupadi Murmu met with Saint Premanand Ji Maharaj at his ashram in Vrindavan, Mathura. The meeting, held at the Radha Keli Kunj Ashram, involved a conversation between the two that lasted for approximately 27 minutes. Upon her arrival at the ashram, Premanand Maharaj welcomed the President with the greeting “Radhe-Radhe.” Subsequently, the two engaged in discussions regarding spirituality, society, and the traditions of the Braj region. It is reported that during this interaction, Premanand Maharaj emphasized the significance of Naam Jap (chanting the Divine Name), stating that it is the simplest path to human salvation.

During the meeting, the ashram authorities presented the President with a dupatta (sacred stole), a mala (prayer beads), and prasad as tokens of blessing. The President was accompanied by her family members throughout this visit. Earlier, on the first day of her tour, President Droupadi Murmu—accompanied by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Anandiben Patel—visited the Prem Mandir to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Radha-Krishna. They entered the temple through the Bhog Ghar entrance, where they were formally welcomed by the temple management. Upon reaching the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), they performed rituals and participated in the Aarti ceremony. At that time, a Sankirtan troupe was singing devotional hymns, creating an atmosphere completely steeped in devotion. The President also watched the laser show organized at the temple and partook of the prasad after offering her prayers. Following this, she performed a Parikrama (circumambulation) of the temple complex.

Worship Performed on the First Floor as Well
Ascending to the first floor of the Prem Mandir, the President and the Governor offered prayers and sought the blessings of various deities, including Shri Sita-Ram. There, too, they performed rituals in accordance with scriptural traditions and completed a Parikrama. The temple management presented them with mementos and religious literature. In the next phase of her itinerary, the President visited the ISKCON Temple (Shri Shri Krishna Balaram Mandir). Here, she was welcomed by the temple’s saints and administrative officials. The President proceeded to the main temple hall to offer prayers to Lord Krishna and Lord Balaram, performing the rituals amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras. She offered worship materials and spent some time meditating within the temple premises. During the cultural program held within the temple complex, he watched and appreciated the dance performances presented by young girls. Additionally, he listened to the kirtan, which imbued the entire atmosphere with a spirit of devotion.

Robust Security and Arrangements
Comprehensive security measures were implemented across Vrindavan in view of the President’s visit. The administration and police remained fully vigilant, and arrangements within the temple premises were maintained in a highly organized manner. The second day of the visit to Braj commenced with a meeting with Premanand Maharaj, an interaction that lent a special significance to the tour. This meeting served as a harmonious blend of faith and dialogue, offering a glimpse of a natural and effortless exchange between the nation’s highest constitutional office and the revered tradition of the saints.