New questions have emerged in the tragic death of 25-year-old Deepak Lodhi—known spiritually as Rasik Dulari Sharan—a disciple of prominent spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj.
Newly surfaced CCTV footage captures the harrowing final moments before the young disciple’s fatal fall from a fourth-floor building in Vrindavan’s Varah Ghat area.
The incident took place at Gau Kripa Kunj, a residence housing several disciples of Premanand Maharaj.
What the 33-Second CCTV Footage Shows
The newly released 33-second video provides a clearer timeline of the tragedy. It shows Rasik Dulari Sharan sitting quietly on a rooftop for approximately 11 seconds before suddenly standing up and leaping from the building.
In the footage, another disciple can be seen climbing the stairs toward the rooftop, appearing to rush to intervene. However, the tragic jump occurred just moments before the approaching individual could reach him. Local law enforcement authorities are actively investigating the incident, questioning residents of the building, and thoroughly reviewing all available surveillance footage to reconstruct the exact sequence of events.
While social media platforms have been flooded with unverified speculations and claims regarding an alleged prior injury, police have not yet officially confirmed any details concerning the specific triggers that led to the incident.
Major Restrictions and Rule Changes at the Ashram
In the wake of the controversy and the intense public reactions surrounding the death, the Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan has implemented sweeping operational and structural changes:
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Initiations Halted: The ashram has indefinitely suspended final initiation ceremonies for devotees.
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Visitor Access Restricted: Scheduled visits for devotees seeking blessings from Premanand Maharaj have been put on hold, effective October 1.
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Dress Code Overhaul: Initiated disciples living in Vrindavan are no longer permitted to wear traditional yellow and white garments, and must instead dress as regular devotees. Only ascetics and personal attendants of the saint are exempt from this rule.
The impact of these changes was immediately visible, with visitors arriving in regular attire rather than traditional colours. Numerous devotees who travelled from different cities to seek an audience with Premanand Maharaj found themselves unable to enter, forcing many to postpone their spiritual journeys. Meanwhile, Premanand Maharaj is currently staying in seclusion at an ashram in Belvan, Mant.
