Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev’s Fall From Grace
NEW DELHI — Once revered by millions, popular Indian yoga guru Baba Ramdev’s reputation has been tarnished after India’s top court demanded he apologize for false claims that his company’s products can “cure” serious illnesses. So, how did it all unravel for the man and his empire?
The Claims and The Court
In videos on his YouTube Channel Swami Ramdev, with over 10 million subscribers, the yoga guru promotes his Patanjali Ayurved products, alleging they can cure various ailments. From fever to cancer, he touts the benefits of his “herbomineral preparations” over “poisonous, synthetic” medicines.
However, the Supreme Court of India recently ordered him to apologize, citing misinformation and consumer deception. They slammed his “unconditional apology” as insincere, warning of consequences for flouting the law.
Controversies Galore
Patanjali, founded in 2006 by Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, has a history of controversial claims. From the alleged cancer-curing juice to the Covid-19 treatment Coronil, the company has faced scrutiny for its unverified assertions.
Moreover, Patanjali’s products, including edible goods like cow ghee, have been criticized for quality issues. Despite legal notices and failed safety tests, the brand has managed to skirt regulatory action.
Defiance and Defense
Despite court orders and fines, Baba Ramdev stands by his products, accusing detractors of bias against traditional medicine. Patanjali continues to run ads promoting its wares, even in the face of mounting legal challenges.
Experts remain skeptical of Patanjali’s claims, citing poor manufacturing practices and unproven efficacy. While the brand insists on its products’ safety and research-backed protocols, the controversies surrounding Baba Ramdev and Patanjali show no signs of abating.
The Guru of All Things Natural: Baba Ramdev’s Close Ties with Modi Government
Baba Ramdev, at 58 years old, is revered by his followers as an expert in all things natural and traditional, shielding his brand Patanjali from any form of criticism. But his influence extends beyond just the realm of wellness – he is believed to have strong connections with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The yoga guru has been vocal in his support for Modi, openly endorsing the BJP in the 2014 general election and urging his followers to do the same. A 2017 investigation by Reuters revealed that Baba Ramdev’s business empire had flourished under the BJP government, with Patanjali acquiring vast amounts of land in BJP-ruled states at discounted rates to expand its operations.
The BBC reached out to both the BJP and Patanjali for comment, but has yet to receive responses. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing saga.
