Introduction
Narayan Saakar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba and Sakar Vishwa Hari Baba of Patiali, was a spiritual leader from Patiyali in Etah district, Uttar Pradesh.
He hosted a ‘satsang’ event in Hathras where a tragic stampede occurred, resulting in 120+ deaths.
Early Life
Narayan Saakar Hari, born Suraj Pal, grew up in Bahadur Nagari village.
His parents were Nanne Lal and Katori Devi, who were farmers.
He completed his early education locally and later worked as a head constable in the Local Intelligence Unit of the UP police.
Career Shift
He claimed to have worked with the Intelligence Bureau but left the police force in the 1990s to focus on spiritual teachings.
Unlike many other spiritual leaders, Narayan Saakar Hari prefers wearing white suits with ties or kurta-pyjamas instead of saffron robes.
He emphasizes using donations solely for his devotees and is often accompanied by his wife, Prem Bati, during his sermons.
Spiritual Journey
After serving 17 years in the intelligence department, he retired to become a preacher.
He is known for giving lessons in a white suit and tie and organizing ‘satsang’ programs with his wife.
He is also known as ‘Sakar Vishwa Hari Baba of Patiali’. Hundreds of people usually attend his events.
Voluntary Retirement and Low Media Presence
His following extends beyond Uttar Pradesh to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Both Narayan Saakar Hari and his followers maintain a low media profile.
According to a devotee, Bhole Baba had no religious mentor. After retiring from the police, he had a ‘vision’ of a deity, which led him to pursue a spiritual path.
He used to hold ‘satsangs’ every Tuesday and had held a similar event in Mainpuri district the week before the Hathras incident.
Controversy During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he requested permission for a ‘satsang’ in Farrukhabad district in May 2022, intending for only 50 people to attend.
However, the event drew over 50,000 people, causing significant challenges for the local administration.
