On 6th September, 1997 Papaji passed away in the intensive-care ward of a Lucknow hospital, having succumbed to what the doctors there called ‘acute respiratory failure’. Papaji was cremated the following day and his ashes were immersed in the Ganga a few days later by Surendra, his son, and by the devotees who accompanied him.

Though his health had been poor for some time, Papaji continued to give regular public Satsangs till 25th August (Krishna Janmashtami), and the never-ending stream of devotees was made welcome at his home until a severe attack of viral fever, bronchitis and asthma forced his admission to hospital on 2nd September.