VRINDAVAN — Astrologer and spiritual speaker Shivashree Ritu Singh has entered the viral debate surrounding Vrindavan-based spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj, arguing that his massive following has nothing to do with celebrity visitors like Indian cricket star Virat Kohli.
Addressing recent comments across social media, Ritu stated that Maharaj’s popularity is rooted in his simplicity, daily spiritual teachings, and the genuine faith of his devotees—not high-profile endorsements or online PR.
‘Devotees Follow Faith, Not Influencers’
Ritu, who described her own deep personal ties to Vrindavan, firmly rejected claims that famous faces are the driving force behind Maharaj’s growing influence.
“I am closely connected to Vrindavan and know that Premanand Maharaj never pays anyone to visit him,” she stated. “He does not need Virat Kohli or any other influencer.” She added that his widespread respect is drawn from the blessings of Radha Rani and the affection of regular devotees.
Ritu also challenged the assumption that youngsters visit spiritual teachers simply because they saw a sports icon or film star do so. She questioned whether everyday people decide to seek peace and guidance merely by watching a famous cricketer, or whether their own intellect and personal spiritual seeking lead them there. Her argument puts personal choice and faith at the center of the discussion, rather than social media hype.
Broader Context Behind the Controversy
The conversation began gaining traction online after several commentators suggested that high-profile celebrity visits were turning traditional ashrams into influencer hotspots.
Ritu contended that while visits from stars like Kohli certainly bring intense media attention, cameras and viral clips cannot build a genuine spiritual bond that lasts. She also framed the scrutiny within a wider pattern, asserting that Hindu traditions and respected gurus have faced regular criticism and politically driven questioning in recent times. According to her, questioning an authentic guru’s integrity is often viewed by devotees as an attempt to undermine Sanatan traditions.
Who Is Shivashree Ritu Singh?
Known popularly as Astrologer Ritu Singh, she is a Vedic content creator and speaker who blends traditional astrology with philosophical discussions:
- Spiritual Roots: She frequently speaks on concepts like the Shiva Sutras and Shiva Tattva. She was conferred the title “Shivashree” by Mahant Janmejay Sharan at the Janakighat Bada Sthan temple in Ayodhya.
- Media Programmes: She is associated with digital and television initiatives such as The Rhythm of Shiva and Katha Mere Mahadev Ki, which aim to explain traditional concepts to younger audiences.
- Public Predictions: She has previously made public astrological predictions regarding prominent personalities—including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amitabh Bachchan, and Govinda—as well as the Indian cricket team.
