Shri Pagala Baba: Uttara Kaula Guru

Shri Pagala Baba: Uttara Kaula Guru

Shri Pagala Baba

1871–October 1967 | a pivotal figure in the Uttara Kaula tradition, lives on through his Mukteshwardham ashram and spiritual legacy.

Origins and Endearment

Shri Pagala Baba, born Panchanan Mitra, was a revered sadhak and the guru of the Uttara Kaula sect, holding its ancient parampara with great spiritual authority.

Born into a royal family in Dhopadhoha village, Joshor district (Norail subdivision), Bengal, his father’s name was Kalicharan Mitra.

While his initiation name remains unknown, he was affectionately called “Dadu” by people of all ages, a term of endearment reflecting his universal appeal.

He was also known locally as Panch Mistry or Pagal Mistry due to his refusal to touch money, earning him the enduring title of Pagala Baba—meaning “mad father” in a nod to his unconventional devotion.

Mukteshwardham: A Living Sanctuary

Pagala Baba established a modest ashram on the outskirts of Ranchi, Jharkhand, India, now known as Mukteshwardham.

This sacred space remains vibrant with his blessings, serving as a center for spiritual practice and reflection.

His ashram houses his samadhi, alongside those of the Mothers, and continues to be maintained by dedicated trustees.

The site is a testament to his enduring legacy, welcoming visitors and sadhaks seeking darshan and meditation.

Pagala Baba's ashram in Ranchi, marked by a large sign and surrounded by green trees.
Pagala Baba’s Mukteshwardham Ashram in Ranchi

Master of Uttara Kaula

Pagala Baba, revered across northern India as a master of the Uttara Kaula tradition, was deeply respected by his disciple, Shri Gurudev Mahendranath, for his extraordinary spiritual attainments.

Shri Gurudev Mahendranath was initiated by Pagala Baba in 1963 and received the Uttara Kaula parampara in 1967 upon Pagala Baba’s mahasamadhi, cementing a lineage that continues to inspire.

Shri Mahendranath maintained psychic communication with Pagala Baba for over two decades after his passing, a testament to the depth of their spiritual bond.

Enduring Inspiration

Pagala Baba’s influence extended to many, including disciples like LT. COL. C. C. Bakshi, a military officer and author, and M. D. Chhugani, who documented his life in the book Baba of Mukteshwardham.

Their works, along with photographs preserved at the ashram, offer glimpses into the life of this remarkable adept.

Visitors to the ashram, including Sri Kapilnath of the International Nath Order, have described deeply moving experiences meditating in the presence of Pagala Baba’s samadhi, affirming the living power of his spiritual legacy.

A sacred statue draped in yellow cloth, inscribed with devotional markings.
Murti of Pagala Baba
The marble-clad resting place, a focal point for meditation and reverence.
Pagala Baba’s Samadhi
A collection of photographs capturing Pagala Baba's presence and grace.
Pagala Baba Over the Years

Explore Pagala Baba’s Legacy

To deepen your understanding of Shri Pagala Baba and the INO, explore these resources:

Writings by Shri Gurudev Mahendranath

About Pagala Baba

  • Panchanan Mitra: Sri Kapilnath’s blog post on Pagala Baba’s life and Bengal roots.
  • Shri Pagala Baba’s Ashram: Photos and insights from Sri Kapilnath’s visit to Mukteshwardham.
  • Baba of Mukteshwardham by M. D. Chhugani: A disciple’s detailed book on Pagala Baba’s life and ashram (search for purchase if needed).

International Nath Order