India has always been a land of mystics, sages, and spiritual legends. Among these towering figures, Devraha Baba holds a unique place in popular lore—revered as a saint who is believed to have lived for over 500 years. Known as the Yogi of Yogis, Baba attracted devotees from all walks of life—ranging from common villagers to celebrities, industrialists, and prime ministers.

But who was Devraha Baba, and what made him so miraculous in the eyes of millions?

The Divine Life of Devraha Baba

Devraha Baba, a mystic yogi, never claimed to possess supernatural powers—yet countless devotees believed in the miracles surrounding him. He lived for decades on a wooden platform (machan) near the Yamuna River, often without stepping down to the ground. It is said that he would stay submerged in the river for over half an hour without breathing and even walked on water, according to local accounts.

Despite living an austere life with no possessions, he distributed Prasad and blessings to everyone who came to him. Devotees believed he could read minds, communicate with animals, and had command over wild creatures.

A Saint with Devotees in High Places

Over time, Devraha Baba became a spiritual guide to some of India's most powerful personalities. Politicians, film stars, bureaucrats, and spiritual seekers all sought his blessings. Yet he remained detached from fame and power, living a simple life in Vrindavan and later near Deoria, Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress Symbol and Indira Gandhi

One of the most talked-about episodes of Devraha Baba’s life was his connection to Indira Gandhi during a politically turbulent time. After the Emergency era, Indira Gandhi had lost power and was struggling to regain her political footing. During this phase, the original Congress party symbol had been frozen by the Election Commission.

It was then that Indira visited Devraha Baba seeking guidance. As per the story, Baba raised his palm to bless her, and it inspired the selection of the open hand (Hath ka panja) as the new symbol of the Congress party. In the 1980 general elections, Congress won by a landslide, and Indira Gandhi returned as Prime Minister—an event many of Baba’s followers attributed to his divine blessing.

Legacy Beyond Time

Whether or not one believes in the legends of Devraha Baba, his influence remains etched in India’s spiritual and political memory. He passed away in 1990, but stories of his life and miracles continue to circulate widely.

To this day, many devotees believe that Baba wasn’t just a saint—but a timeless soul, a siddha yogi, who transcended the boundaries of age, time, and physical existence.