At the Prayagraj Magh Mela 2026, one saint has emerged as a major attraction among devotees and visitors alike—popularly known as ‘Google Golden Baba’. Dressed in gold and silver ornaments worth nearly ₹5 crore, Swami Shri Manoj Anand Maharaj from Kanpur has become a talking point across the mela grounds.
Gold and silver from head to toe
Clad in opulence, the Baba is often seen wearing a massive silver crown, a heavy gold conch around his neck, and bangles and rings worth crores on his hands. He also carries a pure gold Laddu Gopal and uses silver utensils for eating and drinking. According to him, this is not an act of showmanship but a reflection of his Kshatriya lineage, where gold symbolizes courage, strength, and prosperity.
Why the name ‘Google Golden Baba’?
Explaining his unique title, the Baba says people began calling him ‘Google Golden Baba’ because a simple Google search brings up his name instantly. He claims to have been wearing gold ornaments for the past 20 years and attending the Magh Mela regularly for the last eight years. Staying in Sector-2, his camp attracts large crowds, with devotees lining up to catch a glimpse and take selfies.
A vow linked to Yogi Adityanath
A devoted admirer of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Baba has taken a strict vow to remain barefoot until Yogi Adityanath becomes the Prime Minister of India. He earlier wore silver sandals worth ₹5 lakh, but has since given them up as part of his pledge. His silver crown even bears an image of Yogi Adityanath, which he says represents his unwavering faith and commitment.