top of page
Dr Ananth Nalabanda

The Plight of Guru Braṣṭa: Navigating the Maze of Pseudo-Spiritual Leaders



In the spiritual marketplace brimming with diverse paths and guides, the phenomenon of 'guru braṣṭa'—a term often used and appropriate for fallen pseudogurus—emerges as a significant concern. These pseudo-gurus masquerade as spiritual leaders, only to exploit their devotees financially and emotionally. They often misuse concepts from sacred texts and spiritual practices, by using Vasikaran, to weave a deceptive web that binds their followers.


A quintessential example of spiritual discourse, the Bhagavad-gita, discusses the concept of 'yoga-bhraṣṭa' in a much different light than how these pseudo-gurus present themselves. The Gita teaches that even if one fails to complete their spiritual journey, they are reborn into circumstances conducive to spiritual growth—either in wealthy or spiritually enriched families. This doctrine, intended to inspire perseverance in spiritual practice, is twisted by pseudo-gurus who claim that monetary offerings to them can erase karmic debts and ensure a prosperous future. They claim adverse consequences to those who question their integrity.


In a lecture from Stockholm in 1973, Śrīla Prabhupāda clearly articulates the notion of 'yoga-bhraṣṭa', highlighting the mercy of obtaining a human life conducive to continuing spiritual pursuits. Unfortunately, this compassionate allowance is contorted by those self-anointed 'gurus', who claim divine status to justify their demands for money and blind obedience. Beware of their true intent.


These gurus often possess a troubling past, marked by materialistic scams or even mental health issues leading to delusions of grandeur. They manipulate their followers' aspirations for a better spiritual and material life, promising returns that never materialize. Their real skill lies in rhetoric that entices and ensnares rather than enlightens.


Alarmingly, as much as these pseudo-gurus profess a non-violent and accepting facade, they do not hesitate to use their half-baked siddhis (supernatural powers) to harm detractors or even their families, in an effort to instill fear and maintain control. This misuse of spiritual power is a grave deviation from the principles of any true spiritual path. This proves their heinous past and unholy intentions.


In my opinion, 'guru braṣṭa' is the one who cheats and fools their innocent followers in the name of elevated masters such as Saibaba of Shirdi and Sathya Sai Baba of Puttaparthi. By invoking these revered names, they lend themselves an unearned spiritual authority that beguiles and betrays the trust of their followers.


As seekers of truth, we must be vigilant. The authentic path of spirituality is marked by humility, integrity, and the genuine upliftment of disciples, not by the accumulation of wealth or power by the guru. True spiritual leaders embody the principles they preach and guide their followers with wisdom and compassion, without any hidden agendas.


It is essential for sincere seekers not to fear the consequences of adhering to the truthful path. The nefarious actions of these pseudo-gurus will inevitably meet their end through the true blessings of Baba. By educating ourselves and others about these distortions, we can protect our spiritual journeys and honor the true essence of the guru-disciple relationship.


My sincere wish for seekers who find themselves under the influence of these pseudo-gurus is to tap into your strength and do not give away your time, money, and energy to them. Recognize your inherent power to direct your spiritual and worldly life with autonomy and wisdom.


This marks my final blog article on these pseudo-gurus, who are no longer worth my time. Some may interpret silence as acquiescence to their deceit and manipulation. Yet, their real frustration stems from their inability to control me by holding onto the funds they owe me. By appropriating my hard earned earnings in deceit, in the name of Saibaba they accrue karma, which will ultimately address their misdeeds. They tried to threaten me using some members of the path and spreading false rumours within the community - which once again proves their guilt and fear.


Pseudo-guru's concern that their spiritual fraud and path will "fizzle out" will definitely come true with the blessings of the divine masters. They know within themselves that truth will one day triumphs. I pity their confidence as they masquerade as Gurus when they know within themselves thay they have cheated many people of their dreams in name of business in the past.


Liberation from the influence of pseudo-gurus starts with awareness and in maintained through a streadfast commitment to authentic spirtual values and practices. Now is the time for earnest spiritual seeks to question, seek answers and truly open their eyes.


Reach out to us, if you too are a victim of spiritual fraud and need to share your stories. Dont be scared to face these pseudogurus. If you are a true seeker, Baba will protect you.


Why fear when Baba is here.


Sairam and Stay Blessed.



160 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page