Despite the alarming increase in the number of Babas being arrested for unlawful activities, India’s fascination with them never ceases to stop. Case in point: the most recent in a string of arrests, with the latest being Satguru Rampal, a so called ‘deity’ residing in an ashram in Hisar, Haryana. Following his arrest, the ashram and its surroundings showcase a scene taken right from a bloody war movie. All this makes us wonder; what is it with these godmen that fascinate Indians? Is it their ability to perform (feign would be a better word) miracles and contribute to the family lineage? While many may think ‘yes’, we beg to differ. Here are some possible factors we think are the major reasons Indians are drawn to the quintessential Indian Baba.
Politicians Love Them
It would not be surprising to note the sheer number of politicians in India who visit babas before and after every election. Babas are synonymous with vote banks. So while seeking their blessings, politicians are assured of a secure base of followers. If we were to simply gather some photographs of these babas in their more influential times, we would be amazed to note the number of politicians standing with them in public gatherings. So what does this prove? As long as the powerful politicians of this country trust these godmen, they leave little choice for the impressionable and gullible Indian voter.
Businesses Love Them
It is a known fact that babas perform the role of middlemen when it comes to facilitating giant business deals. Reports of popular babas like Chandraswamy and Asaram having links with businessmen and arms dealers as well as investing their black money with these clients have been published in the past. There is no denying the fact that these babas act as international brokers and repositories for slush money. Even the smaller babas seem to have their own network of contacts to facilitate deals at the town and district level. So if you are a growing businessman who is in dire need of contacts to grow your business, where would you go? The answer is but obvious.
Sex Loves Them
An ashram may be devoted to religious disclosure. However, beneath the sastang facade lies a truth that is coming out into the open now. And that is the hint of free sex as preached by most of the babas in India. Consider the recent cases and you will know what we are talking about. Asaram and his son were arrested for raping devotees in their ashram while Swami Nithyanandha’s sexcapades created international headlines. Even Acharya ‘Osho’ Rajneesh’s famous motto ‘Sambogh Se Samadh ki Or’ earned him the nickname of ‘Sex Guru.’ With so many lustful soirees taking place behind the closed walls of these ashrams, there is no doubt people who yearn for the same would queue up outside these places.
Summary
Despite the numerous reports of swamis and babas being arrested for their unlawful activities, there is no dearth to the number of individuals who flock to these ashrams. One wonders as to when India and its people would wake up to these lies and be able to differentiate the real babas from the money laundering, sex hungered ones.
