Kainchi Dham, the spiritual ashram and Hanuman temple associated with saint Neem Karoli Baba, has seen a marked increase in the number of devotees over the extended weekend, according to reports and viral social media videos from the site near Nainital. The rise in visitors has been widely linked in public discussion to the commercial success of the film Hanuman Ansh, which portrays aspects of Neem Karoli Baba’s life and teachings. Directed by Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, the film has attracted substantial audiences since its release and has been credited with renewing interest in places connected with the saint.

Daily footfall at the ashram, previously estimated in the range of 4,000 to 5,000, has reportedly risen above 6,000 on some days. On weekends the numbers have climbed further, with estimates of 15,000 to 20,000 or more visitors during the recent long weekend that included a government holiday. Taking note of the heavy crowds and the resulting congestion on the approach roads, director Dr Vishal Chaturvedi issued a public appeal to prospective visitors. In a video message shared on social media, he urged people to ascertain the current conditions at Kainchi Dham before setting out and to exercise discretion in their travel plans.

He specifically asked visitors to prioritise the safety and comfort of women and children, noting the risk of long queues and crowded conditions. Chaturvedi also suggested that those who find the ashram overcrowded could consider alternative sites associated with Neem Karoli Baba, including Neem Karoli village and locations in Vrindavan. The surge in numbers coincided with an extended weekend that brought increased tourist movement across several parts of Uttarakhand.

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Local authorities responded by expanding shuttle services from designated parking areas in nearby towns in an effort to limit the number of private vehicles on the narrow hill roads leading to the ashram. Despite these measures, the combination of the holiday period and the heightened interest generated by the film placed noticeable pressure on infrastructure and access routes. Videos circulating online showed lengthy lines of vehicles and large gatherings of devotees waiting to enter the premises. The situation at Kainchi Dham illustrates the capacity of popular cultural works to influence patterns of religious and spiritual tourism.

While the increased attendance reflects growing public engagement with Neem Karoli Baba’s legacy, it has also brought practical challenges related to crowd management, road capacity and visitor safety at a relatively compact pilgrimage destination. Chaturvedi’s request underscores the importance of careful planning and awareness of on-ground conditions so that the experience remains orderly and accessible for those who choose to visit. As interest in the site continues, authorities and organisers are likely to monitor visitor flows closely in the coming weeks.

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