New Delhi: In today’s digital era, many messages to spirituality are reaching people through social media. In this context, a video of Swami Premanand Maharaj is becoming increasingly viral these days, in which he has explained in simple words the subtle but very important difference between devotion and ego. This message is especially for those people who are walking on the path of devotion and desire spiritual progress.

In the viral video, Premanand Maharaj clarified that the purpose of devotion is self-purification and love for God, and not to prove oneself superior. He says that where ego takes birth, the real form of devotion gradually disappears.

How does ego enter into devotion?

According to Premanand Maharaj, when a devotee starts thinking that he is doing more devotion than others or that his practice is the best, then devotion starts turning into ego. This feeling increases the “I” in the mind and makes God-centered devotion self-centered. As a result the seeker is deprived of the real fruits of devotion.

What is the mark of true devotion?

Maharaj explains that in true devotion there is no sense of “I”. Humility, dedication and love are prominent in it. Remembering God’s name, praising Him and thinking – all these are fruitful only when there is purity in the mind. The goal of true devotion is not to show one’s greatness, but to immerse oneself in the love of God.

Simple ways to avoid ego

Premanand Maharaj also gave some practical measures to avoid ego while walking on the path of devotion –

• Constant remembrance of God: Keep God at the center of every action and thought.


• Respecting the devotion of others: Instead of considering your own practice as the best, respect the experience of every devotee.


• Consider yourself an instrument: Have the feeling that you are only an instrument of God’s will, not the doer.


• Adopt humility and love: Instead of ego, adopt love and compassion in life.

What is Maharaj’s message?

Premanand Maharaj clearly says that devotion done with ego does not yield spiritual benefits. Devotion is meaningful only when there is complete dedication, humility and pure love for God. This is the path of true devotion, which provides peace to the mind and satisfaction to the soul.