A Glimpse into the Life of Sri Mahant Devendra Das Ji: The Ascetic Visionary of Dehradun

In the heart of Dehradun, where the hustle of modern life meets the serene whispers of the Himalayas, Sri Mahant Devendra Das Ji stands as a towering figure—a man whose life weaves together ascetic devotion, intellectual brilliance, and a relentless commitment to service. With his piercing eyes, calm demeanor, and a memory sharp enough to rival any scholar, he is no ordinary spiritual leader. I had the privilege of meeting him during a turbulent moment involving the Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical Sciences (SGRRIMS), and what unfolded was a story of wisdom, grit, and grace.

It was a crisp morning when I found myself in his presence, amid a heated discussion about regulations at SGRRIMS. The air was thick with tension—bureaucratic hurdles threatened the institution’s progress. Then, with a quiet smile, Mahant Ji leaned forward, his voice steady yet commanding. “Show me where it’s written in the MCI Code that medical college teachers can’t be part-timers,” he said, his tone carrying the weight of someone who’d already won the argument in his mind. The room fell silent. No one could counter him. He was right. The Medical Council of India (MCI) had no such explicit rule, and Mahant Ji’s razor-sharp recall forced a reckoning. Later, the MCI amended its clause, a testament to his ability to challenge the status quo with nothing but truth and tenacity.

That moment revealed the essence of Mahant Ji: a man who blends the austerity of a sadhu with the acumen of a seasoned leader. Handsome, with a radiant fairness that seems to reflect his inner clarity, he carries himself with a quiet dignity. Yet, beneath the saffron robes and the disciplined life of prayer and ritual, there’s a fire—a determination to serve that burns bright.

“Building SGRRIMS was like trying to plant a tree in a storm,” he once confided to us, his eyes distant as he recounted the struggles. “There were hurdles at every step—politics, finances, skepticism. But when you’re serving a higher purpose, you don’t stop.” His words weren’t boastful; they were matter-of-fact, as if overcoming impossible odds was just another part of his spiritual practice. And overcome he did. Today, SGRRIMS stands as a beacon of hope in Dehradun, a hospital and medical college that heals bodies and trains minds, all because one man dared to dream big.

But Mahant Ji’s life isn’t confined to boardrooms or executive decisions. Every year, after the vibrant Jhanda Rohan ceremony at the Shri Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib, he embarks on a pad yatra, circumambulating the city of Dehradun. Barefoot at times, he walks with devotees, his steps a quiet prayer for the community he serves. “The earth speaks to you when you walk with humility,” he once said during one such journey, his voice barely audible over the chants of the crowd. It’s a sight to behold: a man immersed in ritual, yet ever-present, ever-aware, his phenomenal memory cataloging every face, every story he encounters.

Despite his deep spiritual commitments—hours spent in prayer, leading ceremonies, and guiding the Darbar Sahib—Mahant Ji remains a master of balance. As chairman of SGRRIMS, he navigates complex administrative challenges with the same ease he brings to his spiritual duties. “Service is worship,” he told me with a gentle laugh when I marveled at his ability to juggle both worlds. “Whether it’s a hospital or a prayer, it’s all for the people.”

His journey is a living testament to sadhuwad—selfless service rooted in faith. From founding SGRRIMS against all odds to walking barefoot through Dehradun’s streets, Sri Mahant Devendra Das Ji embodies a rare blend of asceticism and action. He’s a man who doesn’t just preach dharma but lives it, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who cross his path.

Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji Maharaj is the current Sajjada Nashin (spiritual head) of the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, and the eleventh Mahant in the lineage of the Darbar Sahib, a prominent Sikh religious institution established by Baba Ram Rai in 1676. As a celibate leader of the Udaseen sect, he has dedicated his life to spiritual leadership, philanthropy, and the preservation of the Darbar’s legacy. Below is a detailed biography based on available information, focusing on his life, contributions, and role in Dehradun’s religious and social landscape.

EARLY LIFE AND ASCENSION

Background: THE TENTH SHRI MAHANT DEVENDRA DASS JI
Everyone cannot renounce the world, be free from the worldly attachment, be a stoic and an ascetic. It is only with God’s grace that one is initiated to sainthood. Some of the saints attain spiritual enlightenment for self whereas others become the role model for the public welfare. It all depends on the virtues of the person concerned.
Shri Mahant Devendra Dass Ji Maharaj born in Adibadri, District Chamoli, would decide to become the disciple of Shri Mahant Indiresh Charan Dass Ji and follow the rigid rules of asceticism in 1998-99. He had become a teacher after doing his M.Sc., B.Ed. He started to work as lecturer in Biology in Shri Guru Ram Rai Public School, Jhanakpuri in 1994 and in 1997 he was appointed as Principal.
His Holiness Shri Mahant Devendra Dass Ji was declared Shri Mahant on 10th February 2000. After renouncing all his worldly relations he became the disciple of Shri Mahant Indiresh Charan Dass and embarked on the new journey of the life. On the 10th of June 2000, Shri Mahant Indiresh Charan Dass Ji left for his heavenly abode and on 25th June 2000 Shri Mahant Devendra Dass Ji shouldered the responsibility of 10th Mahant Shri Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib. Thus a new chapter started in the history of Darbar Sahib. Shri Mahant Ji supervises the activities and affairs of Shri Darbar Sahib and its Education Mission with complete devotion and dedication.
Specific details about Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji’s early life, such as his birth date, birthplace, or family background, are not widely documented, as is typical for many spiritual leaders who avoid self-praise and focus on service. The Darbar Sahib’s tradition emphasizes that Mahants lead lives of celibacy and humility, and their personal histories are often overshadowed by their contributions. It is likely that he was groomed within the Darbar’s spiritual environment for his role, given the tradition of Mahants nominating their successors during their lifetime.
Ascension as Mahant: Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji succeeded his predecessor, likely Shri Mahant Indresh Charan Das Ji, to become the eleventh Mahant of the Darbar Sahib. His 25th anniversary as Mahant was celebrated on February 10, 2025, indicating that he assumed the role around the year 2000. This milestone was marked by devotees gathering at Shri Jhanda Sahib to offer their respects, reflecting his widespread reverence.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Spiritual Leadership: As the Sajjada Nashin, Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji leads the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib, overseeing its religious activities, including the annual Jhanda Mela, a historic fair commemorating Baba Ram Rai’s arrival in Dehradun. He personally leads the ceremonial ascent of the Shri Jhande Ji, a 90-foot flagpole, during the fair, which draws devotees from across India and abroad.
Celibacy and Dedication: Following the Udaseen tradition, he leads a life of celibacy, dedicating himself to the spiritual and social welfare of society. His leadership is characterized by humility and a focus on serving the community, in line with the Darbar’s ethos of benevolence.
Philosophical Outlook: He has emphasized values such as love for nature, self-study (swadhyaya), and yoga, particularly during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging devotees to use such periods for spiritual growth.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE

Shri Guru Ram Rai Education Mission: Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji has significantly expanded the Darbar’s philanthropic efforts through the Shri Guru Ram Rai Education Mission, established in 1952. Under his leadership, the mission has grown to include institutions like Shri Guru Ram Rai University, which he serves as Chancellor. The university, known for its 70+ years of educational excellence, provides education to over 10,000 students, including those from underprivileged backgrounds, reflecting his commitment to inclusive education.
Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital: He serves as the chairman of Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital in Dehradun, a key healthcare institution associated with the Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences. The hospital has advanced medical capabilities, such as the Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization (MMAE) procedure for treating brain conditions, a technology available in only a few medical centers in India. He congratulated the hospital’s team for successfully implementing this minimally invasive procedure in 2025, showcasing his role in promoting cutting-edge healthcare.
Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical & Health Sciences: Established as part of the Education Mission, this private medical college, which began admitting MBBS students in 2006 and postgraduate students in 2011, was propelled to success under his leadership. It became a constituent college of Shri Guru Ram Rai University in 2017, with an annual intake of 150 MBBS and 97 postgraduate seats. He dedicated the institute to Baba Ram Rai, reinforcing the Darbar’s legacy in healthcare education.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/9dgYTvrnKDM?feature=oembedMehant Shri Devendra Das ji at SGRRIMS

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL IMPACT

Community Engagement: Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji is a revered figure in Dehradun, often visited by prominent individuals, such as environmentalist Dr. Anil Joshi, who met him to discuss environmental conservation initiatives. His leadership during events like the Nagar Parikrama, where devotees honor Guru Ram Rai, strengthens community bonds.
Inspiration to Youth: He has been a source of inspiration for figures like Sneh Rana, a member of India’s Women’s Cricket Team and brand ambassador of Shri Guru Ram Rai University. During a 2021 event, Sneh Rana credited his blessings and the Darbar’s support for her success, highlighting his influence on young achievers. He praised her as a role model for the “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” campaign, emphasizing gender equality and education.
Cultural Preservation: He has overseen the preservation of the Darbar Sahib’s unique Indo-Islamic architecture and its historical wall paintings, some dating back to 1707–1710. His leadership ensures the continuation of traditions like the Jhanda Mela, which remains a significant cultural event in Uttarakhand.

RECOGNITION AND LEGACY

25th Anniversary Celebration: On February 10, 2025, devotees thronged Shri Darbar Sahib to celebrate his 25 years as Mahant, a testament to his enduring impact. The event underscored his role as a spiritual guide and community leader.
Public Perception: Described as a source of divine blessings and inspiration, he is seen as a charismatic figure whose leadership attracts devotees and fosters faith in the Darbar’s mission. His emphasis on education, healthcare, and environmental consciousness aligns with modern societal needs while preserving the Darbar’s spiritual heritage.
Biography of Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji Maharaj
Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji Maharaj is a prominent spiritual leader and the current Sajjada Nashin (spiritual head) of the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. He serves as the eleventh Mahant in the historic lineage of this revered Sikh religious institution, which was established by Baba Ram Rai, the eldest son of the seventh Sikh Guru, Guru Har Rai, in 1676. As a celibate ascetic of the Udaseen (Udasin) sect, Mahant Devendra Das has devoted his life to spiritual guidance, religious preservation, philanthropy, and social welfare, embodying the principles of humility, service, and devotion central to the Darbar Sahib’s tradition.
Early Life and Background
Detailed personal information about Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji’s early life, including his exact birth date, birthplace, and family background, is not extensively documented in public sources. This is common for spiritual leaders in the Udaseen tradition, who prioritize selfless service over personal narratives and lead lives of celibacy and renunciation. The focus of available records is on his spiritual journey and contributions rather than biographical minutiae. He is believed to have been groomed within the Darbar Sahib’s monastic order, following the sect’s emphasis on detachment from worldly affairs and dedication to the guru’s teachings.
Ascension to Leadership
Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji ascended to the position of Mahant on June 25, 2000, succeeding his predecessor, Shri Mahant Indresh Charan Das Ji (1945–2000). His tenure marks a significant era of continuity and expansion for the Darbar Sahib. In February 2025, the institution celebrated the 25th anniversary of his leadership with grand ceremonies at Shri Jhanda Sahib, where devotees from across India and abroad gathered to pay respects. This milestone highlighted his enduring influence and the deep reverence he commands among followers.
Spiritual and Religious Role
As Sajjada Nashin, Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji oversees the daily religious activities of the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib, a unique Sikh shrine that blends Sikh, Mughal, and Islamic architectural elements, including minarets, domes, and gardens. The Darbar, located in Dehradun’s heart, is a major pilgrimage site believed to have given the city its name (“dera” meaning camp and “doon” referring to the valley). He leads key rituals, such as the annual Jhanda Mela—a historic fair commemorating Baba Ram Rai’s arrival in Dehradun. During this event, he personally oversees the ceremonial hoisting of the 90-foot Shri Jhande Ji flagpole, drawing thousands of devotees for prayers, processions, and cultural festivities.
Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji is also deeply involved in the broader Udaseen community. He holds the position of Akhil Bhartiya President of the Udasin Bhes Sanrakshan Samiti, an organization overseeing around 350 ashrams and institutions of the Udaseen Sampradaya (sect). In November 2024, he received an official invitation from the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad to participate in the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela in 2025, where the Samiti was allocated 1 lakh square feet of land for activities. He emphasized the event’s spiritual significance, including sacred dips at the Yamuna Sangam, and committed resources like free medical camps from the affiliated Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital.
His leadership upholds the Darbar’s legacy of interfaith harmony, as Baba Ram Rai himself navigated complex relations with Mughal authorities, leading to the shrine’s distinctive syncretic style.
Philanthropic and Social Contributions
Beyond spiritual duties, Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji has been instrumental in advancing education, healthcare, and community welfare in Uttarakhand and beyond. Under his guidance, the Shri Guru Ram Rai Education Mission has expanded significantly:
Education: He chairs the Shri Guru Ram Rai University and affiliated institutions, including schools like Shri Guru Ram Rai Public School (established in 1973), which provides CBSE-affiliated education from nursery to Class 12 in a supportive, skill-building environment. The mission emphasizes holistic development, with facilities like large playgrounds and modern amenities to prepare students for global challenges.
Healthcare: As chairman of Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital, he has overseen innovations such as the inspection and implementation of modular operation theaters to enhance surgical capabilities. During events like the Kumbh Mela, the hospital provides free medical camps, medicines, and ambulance services, reflecting his commitment to public health.
Cultural and Social Welfare: His initiatives promote cultural preservation through festivals and community programs. He has also been involved in land management for the Darbar’s properties, though a 2023 case was registered against him and others in Haridwar for alleged fraud involving forged documents to seize a property in Kankhal—details remain sub-judice, and no conviction has been reported.
Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji’s work has transformed Dehradun into a hub of spiritual and educational excellence, fostering societal welfare in line with the Darbar’s 350-year-old ethos.
Legacy and Influence
Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji Maharaj is widely regarded as a transformative figure whose celibate life and service-oriented approach have strengthened the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib’s role in Uttarakhand’s religious landscape. His 25-year tenure has seen the institution grow in stature, with affiliations to national bodies like the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad. For more details, the official Darbar Sahib website (www.sgrrdarbar.org) provides insights into ongoing activities. His story exemplifies the Udaseen ideal of selfless devotion, inspiring devotees to prioritize spiritual and communal harmony.

CONNECTION TO PREVIOUS MAHANTS

Predecessor – Shri Mahant Indresh Charan Das Ji: Based on prior conversations, you inquired about Mahant Indresh Charan Das, who was a significant figure in the Darbar’s history, managing its properties and establishing the Education Mission in 1952. Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji succeeded him, continuing and expanding these initiatives. Legal battles during Indresh Charan Das’s time clarified the Darbar’s status as a religious trust, and Devendra Das Ji has built on this foundation to strengthen the institution’s modern relevance.

CONCLUSION

Shri Mahant Devendra Das Ji Maharaj is a pivotal figure in Dehradun’s spiritual and social landscape, leading the Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib with a commitment to celibacy, service, and societal welfare. His contributions to education through Shri Guru Ram Rai University, healthcare via Shri Mahant Indresh Hospital, and cultural preservation through events like the Jhanda Mela have solidified his legacy as a transformative leader. While personal details about his early life remain sparse, his public works and spiritual guidance speak volumes about his dedication. For further information, you can explore the Darbar’s official website (www.sgrrdarbar.org) or contact its administrative offices.