When the internet first fell in love with Aniruddhacharya Maharaj, affectionately dubbed “Pookie Baba,” it wasn’t just for his mesmerizing kathas or the sudden bursts of spiritual wisdom that lit up a crowd. It was also for the memes. The viral reactions. The expressive eyebrows and one-of-a-kind cadence that turned his religious discourses into social media phenomena. But behind the viral fame, behind the saffron robes and folded hands, lies a question that now refuses to stay buried—how rich is he really?

In recent weeks, a series of reports and insider whispers have peeled back the curtain on the financial empire surrounding the spiritual guru. What was once thought to be a humble life of devotion and discipline is now emerging as something far more complex, and perhaps even controversial.

According to multiple financial digests and Hindi news outlets, Aniruddhacharya Maharaj’s net worth is estimated between ₹20 to ₹25 Crore. That’s roughly 2.5 to 3 million USD—an amount that, for a man who preaches simplicity and humility, has startled both devotees and critics alike.

But where does the money come from?

The answer begins with his kathas, spiritual storytelling events that often attract thousands in attendance and millions via livestream. Sources suggest that for a single day’s katha, Aniruddhacharya may earn between ₹1 to ₹1.5 lakh. Multiply that over months of touring and events across India and abroad, and the numbers quickly start to stack up.

Then there’s YouTube—a platform that has become one of the largest spiritual stages in the world. With nearly 4 million subscribers and countless viral clips, his channel reportedly generates ₹2 lakh per day, amounting to ₹45 lakh per month in passive revenue. Add to this merchandise, DVD sales, sponsorships, and donations, and the financial web begins to reveal its true scale.

Critics point out that while he is not a businessman in the conventional sense, he is the face of a spiritual-industrial complex that includes charitable trusts, real estate holdings, media production houses, and event management firms.

One of the most discussed assets is his ashram in Vrindavan, a sprawling center that houses devotees, staff, and spiritual learners. Though registered under a trust, its daily upkeep and grandeur have raised questions about operational transparency. Is it funded by donations alone? Or does it draw from the personal wealth of its founder?

Surprisingly, sources close to the guru claim that most of his income is redirected to charity and religious outreach. A former disciple, requesting anonymity, stated, “Baba doesn’t keep money for himself. It’s all for dharmic work. But that doesn’t mean he’s not aware of every rupee.” The disciple also hinted at the guru’s strict financial discipline and reluctance to use luxurious items or live lavishly.

Still, the public perception is harder to manage.

When a spiritual figure becomes a meme icon, scrutiny follows closely behind. Social media users have begun comparing his income with that of mainstream celebrities. Some ask whether it’s appropriate for a monk-like figure to command such wealth—even if it is for “religious use.” Others wonder whether the growing commercialism around kathas is diluting their spiritual essence.

The controversy escalated when rumors of private cars, expensive accommodations during tours, and VIP-level hospitality began to circulate online. One viral tweet read, “Is he a guru or a CEO? ₹45 lakh a month from YouTube alone? This is a startup in saffron.”

His team, however, has consistently denied such claims, stating that Aniruddhacharya lives a “minimalist life,” and only uses what is essential for his health and duties. In a rare interview, the guru himself said, “Whatever comes, comes from the people’s love. I do not ask, I only serve.”

But transparency remains a sticking point.

India’s spiritual landscape has long been dotted with guru-figures who walk a delicate tightrope between divinity and commerce. For every revered saint, there is a scandal waiting to erupt. And in a post-digital world, where spiritual content is just another niche on YouTube, the line between bhakti and branding has never been blurrier.

The numbers don’t lie, though.

₹25 Crore in assets. ₹45 lakh monthly income. Over 100 million views across platforms. These aren’t just spiritual milestones—they’re financial ones.

Yet, his followers continue to grow. In fact, many argue that his rise in wealth is a testament to his impact. “If millions feel peace through his words, why should he not receive support?” said one Twitter user.

Still, questions remain. Does spiritual service justify multi-crore earnings? Should religious figures be held to higher standards of financial disclosure? And most crucially—can humility and opulence coexist?

As the news of his financial standing continues to ripple across media, Aniruddhacharya Maharaj himself remains largely silent, choosing to let his kathas speak for him. But the world is watching. In an age where viral fame meets spiritual fervor, silence may no longer be enough.