Who is 'Google Golden Baba' at Magh Mela 2026, a seer who wears gold and silver worth Rs 5 crore

Amid the saffron-clad saints, chanting pilgrims, and spiritual fervour of the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, one seer has unexpectedly become a visual spectacle at the Sangam. Nicknamed ‘Google Golden Baba’, the Kanpur-based ascetic has been drawing massive attention for a look that gleams unmistakably - layered in gold jewellery, using silver tableware, and always accompanied by a miniature gold idol of Laddu Gopal.

The man behind the glitter is Manoj Anand Maharaj, who says the ornaments he wears collectively are valued at nearly ₹5 crore. Thick gold bangles wrap both his arms, each finger carries a ring etched with Hindu deities, and multiple chains -crafted from gold, silver, rudraksha, and conch - hang around his neck. In a sea of simplicity, his presence stands out instantly.

According to the seer, his association with gold is not recent. He claims to have worn precious metals for almost twenty years and identifies himself as a follower of Karauli Wale Baba. The small Laddu Gopal idol, made entirely of gold, never leaves his side. He calls it his spiritual armour, brushing aside concerns about personal safety or theft, insisting that unwavering faith is his only security.

Golden Baba also traces his beliefs to his lineage. Identifying as a Kshatriya, he says gold has long represented valour, power, and abundance in his community. To him, the ornaments are not indulgence but a visible expression of inherited values and spiritual conviction.

Interestingly, the Baba revealed that he once wore silver footwear worth ₹5 lakh but later gave it up. He now walks barefoot, a decision he links to a vow associated with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. A silver crown worn by the seer features the chief minister’s image, and he says he will not wear shoes again until Adityanath ascends to the post of Prime Minister.

From dawn till dusk, his camp remains packed. Visitors gather not only to seek blessings but also to capture photographs with the gold-clad seer—turning Golden Baba into one of the most talked-about and photographed figures at this year’s Magh Mela.