Indian Skeptic - 2008 09

Magazine Overview

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue: Vol.21 No.5
Date: 15-09-2008
Publisher: B.Premanand
Country: India
Language: English

Editorial Content

Editor's Page

The Editor's Page discusses the health of founder editor B.Premanand, who is undergoing chemotherapy. It notes his resilience and renewed vigor in his campaigns. The page also touches upon the political climate in Karnataka, where the chief minister instructed pujas for the well-being of the government. The editor reflects on the gullibility of people, citing P.T. Barnum's quote about suckers being born every minute and applying it to India. The article mentions the superstition surrounding the Olympic Games opening ceremony date (08/08/08) and how astrologers capitalized on eclipses. It also mourns the loss of two rationalists, Prof. G.T.Narayana Rao and Advocate Moorthy, highlighting their contributions and their decision to donate their bodies to medical colleges.

Articles and Features

Sai Baba's Teachings and Education in Academic Isolation (Posted by robertpriddy on May 30, 2008)
This article critically examines the educational system of Sathya Sai Baba's institutions, arguing that they are isolated from the global research community. It claims that few of the staff are progressively intellectual or up-to-date, and none have published major works of impact. The author suggests that the Sathya Sai University is below the standards of the best Indian education and research. The article also mentions Dr. S. Bhagavantam and Dr. G. Venkataraman, questioning their association with Sai Baba and their scientific credibility.

Some New Postings (Posted by robertpriddy on May 30, 2008)
This section includes a reposting of an article about Joseph, an early whistleblower against Sathya Sai Baba, concerning alleged sex abuse. It references a BBC documentary and interviews with Conny Larsson about sex abuse allegations. It also mentions a book by Brian D. Steel that aims to separate fact from fantasy regarding Sathya Sai Baba.

The Dalai Lama and Sathya Sai Baba (Posted by robertpriddy on May 27, 2008)
This feature presents a quiz with 16 questions designed to compare Sathya Sai Baba and the Dalai Lama, highlighting differences in their humility, openness to criticism, practice of non-violence, and claims of divinity. The answers provided clearly favor the Dalai Lama on most points, while attributing pomp and claims of spiritual superiority to Sathya Sai Baba.

The Sathya Sai Organization's Damage-limitation Efforts (Posted by robertpriddy on May 26, 2008)
The article discusses the unofficial policy of the Sathya Sai Organization to avoid alienating potential converts by downplaying miraculous claims, especially in Western countries. It notes that new members are required to sign a charter accepting Sathya Sai Baba as God. The piece also mentions the organization's efforts to control media contact, particularly after the BBC's documentary "The Secret Swami."

Joseph. Early Sathya Sai Baba Whistleblower (Posted by Barry Pittard on May 27, 2008)
This is a reposting of an earlier blog article detailing the experiences of Joseph, who allegedly witnessed and spoke out against sexual abuse by Sathya Sai Baba. The article discusses the challenges of documenting such claims and the potential unreliability of memory, while also emphasizing the importance of commonsense and established methodologies.

Professor Anil Kumar, Sathya Sai Baba's ‘left-hand' man (Posted by robertpriddy on June 25, 2008)
This article focuses on Professor Anil Kumar, described as Sathya Sai Baba's trusted accomplice. It alleges that Kumar, despite being married, was involved in philandering with Sai Baba's permission. The piece references Conny Larsson's book, which reportedly exposes Sathya Sai Baba as a serial molester and deceiver. It also recounts an incident where Anil Kumar allegedly seduced Tuula, a woman who had a prior relationship with the author.

Subscription and Contact Information

Pages 2 and 3 provide details on subscription rates for "Indian Skeptic" both within India and internationally, including options for annual and life memberships. Contact information for B.Premanand and the Indian Committee for Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal is listed, along with details for renewing subscriptions. The website http://indiansceptic.org is also provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards religious and spiritual claims, particularly those associated with Sathya Sai Baba. The magazine consistently questions the authenticity of miracles, the ethical conduct of godmen, and the validity of pseudoscientific beliefs. The editorial stance is clearly rationalist and critical, aiming to expose what it perceives as deception, superstition, and exploitation within spiritual movements. There is a strong emphasis on scientific temper, critical inquiry, and the importance of evidence-based reasoning.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue: 21(5)
Date: September 2008
Publisher: Indian Skeptic
Country: India
Language: English

This issue of the Indian Skeptic delves into various controversies surrounding Sathya Sai Baba, questioning his divine claims, examining alleged misconduct, and scrutinizing his interactions with public figures and organizations. The articles present a critical perspective, often citing devotee accounts and media reports to support their arguments.

Sai Baba's Actions and Interpretations

The issue begins with a piece reflecting on Sathya Sai Baba's actions being out of accord with human values, referencing a personal account from Conny Larsson. It also critiques Professor Anil Kumar, described as one of Sathya Sai Baba's 'mouthpieces,' for his uncritical acceptance of Baba's claims.

Sai Baba Seen in Ritual Fire

A post by Robertpriddy on June 23, 2008, discusses an image of Sathya Sai Baba supposedly manifesting in a ritual fire during 'Paduka' celebrations in 1998. The author, Robertpriddy, suggests that while the colors orange and black are visible, the form is vague and requires significant imagination to be interpreted as Baba. He contrasts this with the expectation of a clear manifestation from a self-proclaimed omnipotent avatar. The article notes that devotees often interpret natural forms as representations of Sai Baba due to the 'over-heated atmosphere' of ashrams and Sai groups.

Sathya Sai Baba as ‘Divine Mother’ - Photos

Another post by Robertpriddy on June 17, 2008, examines manipulated images of Sathya Sai Baba placed into traditional photos of gods, describing him as looking like a 'transvestite drag queen or a hira.' The article connects this to supposed authentic photos claimed to have been 'materialised' and discusses Sathya Sai Baba's alleged 'divine play' (leela), including acting as a mother figure by 'dancing, cleaning houses, bringing water, wearing saris.' It recounts an incident from the mid-1930s where Satyanarayana Raju (Sathya Sai Baba) impersonated a female dance artist, Rishyendramani, at a school function.

Outright Defenders of Sexual Abuse by Sathya Sai Baba

This section, also posted by Robertpriddy on June 17, 2008, alleges that members of the Sathya Sai Organization have circulated rationalizations of homosexual abuses on boys and young men by Sathya Sai Baba. The document refers to an online source (http://www.saibaba-aclearview.com/contents1.html) where a devotee named Ram Das Awle published his thoughts, which the International Sathya Sai Organisation has not refuted. The article criticizes the organization for its lack of accountability and failure to report to the public and prospective young male visitors.

It further discusses accusations from various quarters and mentions US devotee Bon Giovanni. The article highlights Ram Das Awle's attempt to fit sexual abuse facts into a framework of 'total belief' that Sathya Sai Baba is God, justifying these acts as 'spiritual healing.' It also points to a case by Alaya Rahm against US Sathya Sai leaders that was withdrawn, though Rahm maintains his testimony.

The text mentions that Ram Das Awle's views are allegedly obtained from a pamphlet by 'The Kundalini Foundation for Self-Realisation.' The article concludes that the defense of sexual abuses has been raised to the level of 'pseudo-theology' and that this 'imagination' is a classic example of confused thinking among Sai devotees when their faith is challenged.

Ex-king Gyanendra of Nepal & Sathya Sai Baba

Posted by Robertpriddy on June 11, 2008, this article compares ex-king Gyanendra of Nepal and Sathya Sai Baba, both hailed as Living Incarnations of Lord Vishnu. While Gyanendra stepped down as king, Sathya Sai Baba remains on a pedestal. The article questions their divine status, noting that Gyanendra identified as a pragmatic person, not a god.

Sathya Sai Baba's Claim to Godhood

It explains that Sathya Sai Baba claims to be the reincarnation of Vishnu, as foretold by the sage Markandeya, to intervene and set the world on a new course. Baba is quoted as saying, "When dharma declines... The Lord has come again on this Mission."

Ex-king Gyanendra's Claim to Godhood

According to BBC reports, many Nepalese still consider King Gyanendra to have divine powers as an incarnation of Vishnu. Experts note that while Hindu scriptures don't directly link monarchs to Vishnu's incarnations, kings are seen as containing portions of deities. Sudhindra Sharma mentions a Nepali saying about kings acting for the people's welfare. Hardline Hindus, like General Bharat Kesher Simha, believe a king must have divine power and be courageous.

The article notes that Gyanendra's claim is weakened by accusations of orchestrating the killings of protesters. It also mentions that King Birendra and his queen, who were murdered, had visited Sathya Sai Baba.

Miracle Story - Sathya Sai Baba

Posted by Robertpriddy on June 9, 2008, this section recounts a story of Sathya Sai Baba's supposed 'miraculous survival' of a leg fracture in 1963. While going up stairs, he slipped and fractured his right leg. However, he later appeared walking as if nothing had happened. Baba is quoted as saying, "NOTHING HAPPENS TO SWAMI, NOTHING CAN TOUCH YOUR SWAMI... THERE WAS NEVER AN INJURY TO SWAMI, SWAMI NEVER GET INJURED, AS ALL ARE MY CREATIONS CAN MY OWN CREATIONS HARM ME?"

Anil Kumar's experience is also mentioned, questioning the authenticity of the fracture given Baba's subsequent walking. The article notes that despite this, Baba has for years been debilitated by a hip injury and uses an invalid chair.

'Professor' Anil Kumar

This section details Anil Kumar's role as the main interpreter of Sathya Sai Baba's discourses into English. It describes his 'gushing floral word tributes' and 'adulatory comments,' suggesting his professorial title was bestowed by Baba himself. The article criticizes Kumar's 'blind devotion' and his tendency to reveal 'private' traits of Baba that illustrate his ignorance and misjudgment.

Deception Against Sathya Sai Baba

Posted by Robertpriddy on June 4, 2008, this article claims Sathya Sai Baba was deceived by a Swedish imposter, Dr. Michael Nobel. Baba had announced Nobel's visit, believing he was the one who awarded Nobel Prizes. However, Nobel was later discredited. The article states that Nobel was a paid contractor for the Sai Baba organization to set up a satellite radio station, 'Sai Global Harmony.'

It details how the Nobel Foundation warned against Michael Nobel, stating he had no right to create new Nobel Prizes and that his actions constituted copyright infringement. The Nobel Foundation threatened legal action. The article also mentions that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded solely by the Norwegian Government, and they have been privately informed about Sathya Sai Baba's alleged fraudulence and sex abuse allegations.

Sathya Sai Baba Lack of Awards

Posted by Robertpriddy on June 3, 2008, this article questions why Sathya Sai Baba has not received international awards, despite claims of his significant global impact. It notes that while Baba boasts of doing '1000 times more than anyone else,' his 'service' work and organizations have received no international recognition. The article contrasts this with awards given to prestigious journals like 'Science' and 'Nature,' UNICEF, and the Gates Foundation.

It highlights the Prince of Asturias awards, which acknowledge scientific, technical, cultural, social, and humanitarian work. The author argues that Sathya Sai Baba's discourses, filled with repetitive religious mythology and self-promotion, make him ineligible for such awards. The article contrasts the quality of Baba's work with that of award recipients, citing V.K. Narasimhan, former editor of 'Sanathana Sarathi,' who was aware of the low quality of the discourses and had to make editorial changes.

Sathya Sai Baba as Nobel Peace Prize Candidate

Also posted by Robertpriddy on June 3, 2008, this article discusses Sathya Sai Baba's thwarted hope of receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. It mentions that Prime Minister Vajpayee's Indian Government supported this aspiration. The article reiterates that Michael Nobel, who Baba believed was connected to the Nobel Prize, was actually a contractor for the Sai Baba organization and had been warned by the Nobel Foundation.

It explains that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded by a Norwegian committee, who have been privately informed about Sathya Sai Baba's alleged issues. The article also mentions the Danish documentary 'Seduced' about Baba's fraudulence and sex abuse allegations, as well as his past appreciation of dictator Idi Amin and visits from convicted Italian Prime Minister Bettino Craxi.

Sathya Sai Baba official website deceit exposed

Posted by Robertpriddy on June 3, 2008, this section exposes fraudulent claims on the official Sathya Sai Baba website regarding an award from the Duke of Edinburgh. The Guardian newspaper reportedly exposed that the claim was misrepresented, and the Palace authorities confirmed that the event was not as presented. The article states that the official website was forced to remove the promotion but later sneaked the false information back under an archive.

Swamijis funeral leads to tension near Royan Circle

This brief news item from Deccan Herald on April 10, 2008, reports on a funeral procession for an unclaimed 'Swamiji' in Bangalore that led to chaos near Royan Circle due to a dispute over the burial site.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Indian Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of Sathya Sai Baba's claims to divinity, his alleged involvement in sexual abuse and other misconduct, and the deceptive practices attributed to him and his organization. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical and critical, aiming to expose what the magazine perceives as falsehoods and manipulations surrounding Sathya Sai Baba. The articles consistently question his miracles, highlight inconsistencies in his teachings and actions, and expose instances where his organization or he himself have allegedly misrepresented facts or engaged in cover-ups. The magazine appears to be dedicated to challenging the narrative presented by Baba's followers and presenting an alternative, critical perspective based on reported evidence and investigative journalism.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue: 21(5)
Date: September 2008
Publisher: Indian Skeptic
Country: India
Language: English

This issue of the Indian Skeptic delves into a series of controversial incidents primarily involving self-styled godmen, criminal activities, and subsequent legal battles across India.

Boodi Mutt Seer's Death and Land Dispute

The magazine reports on the death of Boodi Mutt seer Siddalinga Swamiji (67) following a road accident on March 23. He passed away on March 30 at Bowring Hospital. The incident brought to light a land dispute surrounding the Mutt, with over two dozen families of various religions residing there for decades. Residents claimed that no Swamiji had resided there recently and expressed shock at the burial. Neighbours recalled a grave dating back to 1874 belonging to Veeramma of the Uppar community, suggesting the land was also being fought over by land-grabbers.

Ashram Attack in Kolkata

In a shocking incident on April 18, two nuns were brutally killed and another monk injured at an ashram in Kolkata. An unidentified assailant attacked the nuns and monks after being refused entry. Sangeeta Devi, the head of the mission, and nun Dulu Datta were killed, and monk Anandakamal Brahmachari was critically injured.

Controversial Godman Santosh Madhavan

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the legal troubles of Santosh Madhavan, also known as Amrita Chaitanya. Reports detail his alleged involvement in fraud, leading to an Interpol red corner notice. He sought anticipatory bail from the Kerala High Court. Police raids on his premises in Kochi uncovered evidence of sleaze, including links with politicians, policemen, and film stars. Recovered items included a tiger skin, liquor bottles, and pornographic CDs. Madhavan was accused of cheating a Dubai-based woman of Rs 55 lakh. The police faced criticism for delays in action, with allegations that political parties were influencing the investigation. Madhavan was eventually arrested and charged with rape of a minor girl, pornography, and possession of narcotic substances. The investigation also revealed that he had allegedly made pornographic films using starlets and used them for blackmail.

Other Godmen and Incidents

Another self-styled godman, Himaval Maheswara Bhadrananda, caused a scare at a police station in Kochi by brandishing a gun and threatening suicide. He was charged with attempt to commit murder and suicide. The issue also highlights police raids on the premises of several fake godmen and pastors in Kerala, following the arrests of Madhavan and Bhadrananda. These raids were part of a broader crackdown on individuals allegedly making a business out of religion.

Asaram Bapu Gurukul Deaths and Protests

The magazine covers the mysterious deaths of two young students, Dipesh Vaghela (10) and Abhishek Vaghela (11), at Asaram Bapu's ashram gurukul in Ahmedabad. Their bodies were found mutilated. Following this, Asaram Bapu supporters staged a rampage, attacking media personnel and setting vehicles on fire. In a separate incident in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, the deaths of two four-year-old students, Ram Krishna Yadav and Vedanta Manmore, at another Asaram Bapu gurukul raised suspicions of foul play. Police initially registered a natural death for Ram Krishna, but suspicions grew when Vedanta's body was found later in similar circumstances. Eventually, police claimed that a 14-year-old senior student admitted to killing the two younger boys, allegedly motivated by a desire to leave the school and teasing due to obesity.

Other Legal Cases

The issue also briefly mentions the arrest of a Sai temple priest in Rajkot for allegedly molesting a woman and a case where a school principal allegedly beat up a 13-year-old boy for not completing homework. The Kerala High Court questioned the proper conduct of a narco-analysis test in the Sister Abhaya case, suspecting tampering of evidence. Another report details the arrest and subsequent release on bail of seer Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swami of Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore for alleged forgery and land encroachment. The case was recommended for a probe by the Corps of Detectives. Finally, a notice was issued to Pejawar seer Visvesha Theertha Swami in connection with an attempt-to-murder case.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of fraudulent godmen exploiting religious sentiments for personal gain, the involvement of influential figures in criminal activities, and the subsequent police investigations and legal proceedings. The editorial stance appears critical of these practices, highlighting the alleged corruption, exploitation, and criminal behavior associated with some religious figures and institutions. The magazine focuses on reporting these incidents with a tone of exposé, aiming to bring public attention to these issues.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue: Vol. 21, No. 5
Date: September 2008
Publisher: Indian Skeptic
Country: India
Language: English

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated September 2008, covers a spiritual event in Udupi, India, featuring the visit of spiritual leader Jayendra Saraswati. The content highlights the public reception, the involvement of local political figures, and the cultural performances that accompanied the event.

Event Coverage: Visit of Jayendra Saraswati to Udupi

The magazine reports on the arrival of spiritual leader Jayendra Saraswati in Udupi, just before a downpour. The seer was greeted and felicitated by the local MLA and his devotees with garlands and shalyas. In turn, Swamiji blessed priests from over 20 temples, who also presented him with shalyas. The event saw the presence of V. S. Acharya, the Home Minister, who came to pay his respects. Acharya expressed his admiration for the opportunity to seek the Swamiji's blessings and stated his liking for the fact that Swamiji visits their state, emphasizing the pride they feel. He conveyed a desire for Swamiji to visit Udupi more often.

Acharya highlighted Swamiji's consistent encouragement of education and health measures for the underprivileged. He offered government support for any education or health projects that Swamiji might wish to initiate in the state, stating, "We assure all help and will be more than happy. It is a long cherished idea that a medical institution will be set up."

A priest present at the program shared his observations, noting that "Anybody is welcome to come and be with him and listen to his discourses." He emphasized that "There is no distinction of community made among people who want to be his devotees," and that "Like everybody else, Swamiji has a universal appeal to people."

The report also mentions that many attendees were visibly moved by the songs performed. The event included a performance by singer Kavitha Subramaniam, organized as part of a "Guruvandana programme" to pay respect to Sri Jayendra Saraswati. Violinist L. Subramaniam was also in attendance.

The article concludes with an email address for correspondence: [email protected].

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This particular excerpt from Indian Skeptic focuses on a specific event that blends spirituality, community engagement, and political figures. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on such events factually, highlighting the positive aspects of spiritual leaders' influence on society, particularly in areas like education and health. The magazine seems to document instances where spiritual figures interact with the public and political spheres, suggesting an interest in the intersection of faith, social welfare, and public life in India. The mention of "Indian Skeptic" and the URL suggests a publication that might critically examine or at least document phenomena often associated with belief systems, though this specific piece is largely descriptive of a positive event.