A senior Maharashtra politician's reliance on a guru for advice has sparked questions about the relationship between politicians and self-styled spiritual leaders. These 'godmen' have drawn the state's elite into their orbit, often using their charisma and leadership skills to broker deals and cultivate a mass base.
Politicians consult these gurus before making major decisions, contesting elections, and even career moves, creating a heady mix of faith, power, and politics. Rationalists and critics rubbish the supernatural powers these gurus claim, but acknowledge their reach and influence.
As the arrest of Nashik 'godman' Ashok Kharat shines a light on this shadowy tribe, the lines between faith and superstition, power and politics, become increasingly blurred.
With politicians like Rupali Chakankar and Eknath Shinde visiting temples run by these gurus, the public is left wondering if their allegiance is driven by genuine faith or a desire for power.
