Neem Karoli Baba’s Deep Devotion to Hanuman
The Bhakt of the Greatest Bhakt
Neem Karoli Baba, known to the world as a mystic saint of unconditional love and miracles, never claimed to be a guru. He often pointed to someone else: Lord Hanuman. In Maharajji’s divine play, Hanuman Ji was not just an idol or deity — he was the Supreme Power himself. Baba once said, "Hanuman Ji is the breath of Ram. And without Ram, there is nothing."
To understand Maharajji, one must first understand Hanuman Bhakti. The entire foundation of Neem Karoli Baba’s spiritual life, teachings, and miracles flowed from his absolute surrender to Hanuman — the epitome of devotion, service, strength, and humility.
This article dives deep into Maharajji’s Hanuman Bhakti, exploring how it shaped his life and continues to transform the lives of his devotees worldwide.
The Spiritual Lineage of Hanuman Worship
Bhakti Traditions and Hanuman’s Legacy
In the spiritual traditions of India, Hanuman stands as the eternal symbol of Bhakti — devotion without ego. From the verses of Goswami Tulsidas to the Ramayana’s sacred episodes, Hanuman has been celebrated as the selfless servant of Ram. Hanuman’s greatness lies in his anonymity. He seeks no name, no fame — only to serve the Lord.
Neem Karoli Baba inherited and exemplified this tradition. He did not initiate disciples, write scriptures, or claim supernatural status. Instead, he quietly pointed everyone toward surrender and service, echoing Hanuman’s way.
Neem Karoli Baba’s Place in Hanuman Bhakti
Many saints have walked the path of devotion, but few have disappeared so completely into the one they worshipped. Maharajji often said, "Hanumanji does everything. I do nothing." Whether it was healing diseases, appearing in dreams, or multiplying food during bhandaras — he never claimed credit. He attributed it all to Hanuman.
Devotees close to him believed Maharajji was an incarnation of Hanuman himself. His love for Ram, his power to serve and bless, his silence, his humor, and even his immense strength all mirrored Hanuman’s qualities.
Hanuman in Maharajji’s Words and Silence
Baba Spoke Little, But Always of Hanuman
Maharajji’s teachings were subtle. He didn’t give long discourses or analyze scriptures. Yet in his few spoken words, Hanuman’s name often emerged. He would urge devotees to read the Hanuman Chalisa, chant Ram Naam, and serve others in Hanuman’s spirit.
One devotee recalled asking him, “Who is your Guru, Baba?” Maharajji simply replied, “Hanuman Ji.” Another time he said, “Without Hanuman, Ram cannot be found. Hanuman Ji is the door.”
"He Does Everything"
Once, a devotee offered gratitude for a miracle that saved his family. Maharajji interrupted, “Not me. Hanuman Ji did it.” This surrender wasn’t performance — it was real. Baba’s eyes would light up at the name of Hanuman. He would weep quietly when someone recited the Hanuman Chalisa from the heart.
It is said that once, in deep ecstasy, Baba declared, “Hanuman is not a story. He is here. He is alive.”
The Hanuman Murti at Kainchi Dham
The Heart of Kainchi
The central Hanuman idol at Kainchi Dham was installed under Baba’s guidance. Simple, powerful, and glowing with spiritual charge, this murti became the heart of the ashram. People reported visions of Hanuman coming alive, eyes glowing, or the idol vibrating with unseen energy.
This murti is not just a statue — it is believed to be a living presence, a channel through which Maharajji’s and Hanuman Ji’s grace flows.
Divine Experiences
Thousands have reported life-changing experiences at this murti — from emotional release to physical healing. Many first-timers who didn’t even know who Neem Karoli Baba was found themselves inexplicably drawn to the idol and left transformed.
Every June 15th, on the day of the Kainchi Bhandara, the presence of Hanuman Ji is palpable. It is said that Baba himself promised Hanuman would always reside there.
