Sadhguru's Ashram: A Safe Haven or a Pitfall for Women?
Recent incidents at Sadhguru's ashram have raised concerns about the safety of women seeking spiritual growth there. This article delves into the experiences of a visitor and explores whether the ashram truly provides a secure environment for all its female practitioners.
A Personal Account
Living in Palakkad, close to the ashram, my sister and I have been regular visitors for the past ten years. During October 2018, my sister volunteered at the ashram and participated in a program for practitioners. After the main session, she stayed for the correction class, a common practice for volunteers. Unfortunately, an encounter with a Teaching Yogini named Nalandha left my sister feeling uneasy.
During this class, Nalandha expressed inappropriate behavior towards my sister, including touching and talking inappropriately. My sister was initially hesitant to report the incident, fearing a backlash or disbelief. Fortunately, I was in Coimbatore at the time, and upon hearing from my sister, my friends and I rushed to the ashram.
Afraid to enter the premises without proper authorization, we forced our way through. Upon reaching the office, we were met with denied entry, and only allowed to enter after a lengthy argument. The situation was further complicated when the officials refused to acknowledge the incident, failed to bring Nalandha to a meeting, and even laughed off the idea of reporting it to Sadhguru.
Speculation on Authority and Ethics
The meeting went on for about an hour, with heated arguments and deadlock. Eventually, Nalandha apologized to my sister and requested her to let the matter rest. My sister, having had enough, decided to leave, but not before the ashram officials barred her from any future volunteering or program registrations.
The incident raises questions about the overall safety and ethical standards at Sadhguru's ashram. While the ashram promotes spiritual growth and harmony, it seems that the administration struggles with accountability and effective intervention in such sensitive matters.
Conclusion and Reflection
Is Sadhguru's ashram truly safe for women? The answer appears to be a cautious 'no,' at least in cases where allegations of inappropriate behavior are concerned. While the ashram provides a unique and enriching environment for spiritual development, visitors must be aware of the potential risks and the limited recourse for addressing grievances.
For those willing to take the risk, the ashram remains an option, but individuals should assess their personal comfort levels and consider alternative options if they feel unsafe or unsupported. Ultimately, promoting a safe space for all practitioners is not only a moral imperative but also a fundamental requirement for the ashram's integrity.