This refers to the article, “Why babas and matas thrive” (August 30) by Navneet Anand. There are several notable self-styled gurus who have faced criminal action or are presently locked up in different jails across the country for numerous reasons like sexual assault and other felonies. These self-styled babas want nothing but cheap publicity, money power and fame. This is why they loot their gullible followers and also indulge in nefarious activities.
As India becomes wealthier, increasing number of people are feeling left behind. This is why they turn to gurus for spiritual and material sustenance. Though health, well-being and spirituality are what they profess, some of the likes of Gurmeet Ram Rahim have made headlines for the controversy they create — be it financial irregularities, sexual abuse and sometimes even murder. These modern-day gurus are nothing like the wandering saints about whom we read in ancient Hindu religious texts, who meditated and lived on alms, renouncing worldly possessions. Doesn’t it seem as in the past two decades, spiritual life in the country has undergone a negative transformationIJ People are embracing hectic urban lifestyle and moving away from their cultural roots of devoted worship.