The Saint of Unconditional Love and Devotion
Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Neeb Karori Baba, was a revered Hindu guru, mystic, and devotee of Lord Hanuman. Known for his divine presence, boundless compassion, and miraculous leelas (acts), Baba inspired thousands of followers around the world. His teachings-simple yet profound-centered around love, service to others, remembrance of God, and inner devotion.
Neem Karoli Baba was born as Lakshmi Narayan Sharma around 1900 in Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Not much is publicly known about his early years, as he chose to live a life of renunciation and anonymity. After marrying and briefly living a householder's life, he set off on a spiritual journey, ultimately becoming one of India's most loved saints.
Early Life
Saint Neem Karoli Baba was born as Lakshmi Narayan Sharma around 1900 in Akbarpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Not much is publicly known about his early years, as he chose to live a life of renunciation and anonymity. After marrying and briefly living a householder's life, he set off on a spiritual journey, ultimately becoming one of India's most loved saints.
The Name "Neem Karoli"
Baba's association with the village of Neeb Karori (or Neem Karoli) in Uttar Pradesh gave him the name by which the world would come to know him. It was in this village that one of his early miracles led to the construction of a temple and the spread of his fame.
Teachings and Philosophy
Though he gave few formal discourses, Neem Karoli Baba's entire life was a teaching. His core messages were:
"Love Everyone, Serve Everyone, Remember God."
"Sub Ek (All is One)."
"Sab ka malik ek (Everyone’s God is one)."
Baba emphasized bhakti (devotion), seva (selfless service), truth, and simplicity. He often reminded devotees that God resides in all beings, and the highest spiritual practice is to serve others as manifestations of the divine.
Miracles and Divine Presence
Devotees have recounted countless miracles-healings, visions, control over nature, and appearing in multiple places at once. However, Neem Karoli Baba discouraged focus on miracles, urging instead the pursuit of inner transformation and selfless love.
International Influence
Neem Karoli Baba's teachings crossed oceans, especially during the 1960s and 70s when many Western seekers found their way to him. Ram Dass (formerly Richard Alpert), an American spiritual teacher and former Harvard professor, became one of Baba's most well-known disciples. His book "Be Here Now" introduced millions to the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba and Eastern spirituality.
Other admirers include Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, and musicians like Krishna Das, who credit Baba's influence in their spiritual journeys.
Neem Karoli Baba Ashrams and Legacy
Neem Karoli Baba left his physical body in 1973, but his presence is felt strongly by devotees even today. Major ashrams include:
Kainchi Dham Ashram (Uttarakhand), India - The most famous ashram, visited by devotees worldwide.
Vrindavan Ashram, India
Taos Ashram (New Mexico, USA)
Other centers in Lucknow, Rishikesh, and Hanuman Gadi
His legacy lives on in the hearts of millions who experience his grace through prayer, service, and remembrance.
Neem Karoli Baba Quotes
"Love is the strongest medicine. It is more powerful than electricity"
"Serve everyone as God. Even when you are serving food, it is God who is being fed."
Krishna: Dresses, Tulasi Mala and Paintings
