Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaj-ji, was a Hindu guru, mystic, and devotee of Lord Hanuman. He was born as Lakshmi Narayan Sharma on December 11, 1900, in the village of Akbarpur, in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India. Neem Karoli Baba is known for his teachings on love, service, and devotion, which attracted followers from various walks of life, including Westerners.

He was particularly influential during the 1960s and 1970s, when many Western seekers traveled to India in search of spiritual enlightenment. Prominent figures like Ram Dass (formerly known as Richard Alpert), Bhagavan Das, and Krishna Das were among those who were profoundly influenced by Neem Karoli Baba.

Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings emphasized love for all beings, selfless service (seva), and the importance of devotion (bhakti) to God. He was known for his simple and unassuming lifestyle, often living in ashrams and temples, and he had a reputation for performing miracles and displaying profound spiritual insight.

Despite his passing in 1973, Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings continue to inspire millions of people around the world, and his legacy remains influential in various spiritual communities, particularly in the West. Many devotees still visit his ashrams and temples, seeking guidance and blessings.