Sir,

I respond to the article, “Spiritual Spinners” by Vikram Muthanna, in his column Black and White (SOM dated Oct. 19). But, the last word is not said yet about, what Vikram calls, Spiritual (money-spinning) Industry. His simple but very sincere concern about, ‘How much money is enough money’ for these over-greedy fakes who come with different brand names and suitable costumes, is not easy to answer.

We also can’t predict where and when it will stop. Where are those well-meaning Saints like Kabir, Guru Nanak, Shankaracharya, Kanaka Dasa and Purandara Dasa? These saints gave meaning to life and its mystery through their own lives and teachings. But these days we find ‘Godmen’ (not Saints or Sanyasis) living in posh Ashrams (!) constantly guarded by bouncers dressed as ‘Shishyas.’ These modern Gurus openly flaunt their political connections. Even a darshan or a blessing costs thousands of rupees. Advance bookings are sometimes mandatory.

It is not that these very famous Swamijis, Gurus and Godmen are not exposed by many rational organs of society, but they are smart enough to escape quickly, astonishing their admirers who are overeager to believe in their superpower. Whenever a fake is arrested, you see, followers in thousands, in a state of hypnosis, acting as a private army, indulge in rampage and unbelievable anarchy forcing the release of their idol. Be it Haryana or elsewhere, it is the same, stunning the rationale of the sceptics.

It is very unfortunate and sad that our gullible brethren do not see, behind the pomp and show of their icons, lurks such crimes as paedophile, sexual assault, money racket and unlimited violence.

Again and again people get enthralled by the cheap tricks which are glorified as miracles. Why don’t they see the arrogance when one says that the Sun and Moon move at his command insulting the common sense of a school-going child !! 

It is disturbing that well-educated scholars and recognised scientists fall victims to these fake Godmen and take pride in falling at their feet.  So it is not social or economic insecurity that drives people into the arms of these charlatans. It is the sense of SIN and the hope of easy DELIVERANCE that makes them go crazy.

So how can they, these fake Godmen, themselves being sinners offer help and solace for others? Most often the remedy suggested by the fake Godmen is funny, bizarre and generating a sense of fright and forceful surrender.

Very often these Godmen or women get queerly dressed, dance around on a stage as if in a trance, gesticulate wildly to create the required dramatic  effect. The turmoil in society today being what it is, many feel rootless, disoriented and frustrated in their pursuit of peace and happiness.

Well, here are waiting in the wings, these fake people who pretend to be the anchors of these aimless ones. In reality, the ANCHOR should be the awareness of TRUTH and the place without doubt the heart, and the tool simply, honest prayer. No Babas, Bhagawans, Bapus, Gurus or Anandas can provide solace, if you don’t discover your own prayer (a path), a channel to GOD, who is very much within yourself.

– Prof. K.V. Satyan, V.V. Mohalla, 20.10.2019

Note: “You are the architect of your own destiny.”— Swami Vivekananda.

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