The following article appeared in the Hindustan Times - UK edition.
Wednesday, June 18, 2003 | Updated: 15:46 GMT
India-born religious guru's organisation under probe
Nabanita Sircar
London, June 18
An inquiry has been launched into an organisation linked with Prem Rawat, an Indian-born self-claimed Guru Maharaj ji. The Charity Commission has confirmed that it is investigating Elan Vital, the UK-registered charity that was set up in 1997.
Rawat, from Bristol, was called a motivational speaker when he addressed two sell-out crowds at the Colston Hall at the weekend. Until a few years ago Rawat was the head of the Divine Light Mission. He was once called Lord of the Universe by followers who lined up to kiss his feet.
But it was a former follower of his who got suspicious of certain irregularities. Andrew Carpenter, 48, whose name has been changed on his request, spent three months investigating Elan Vital before making a submission to the Charity Commission this month. He alleges that between 1996 and 2002, Elan Vital gifted more than £4.5 million in grant aid to organisations in Switzerland, America and Australia, all exempt from providing public statements on their activities and spending. He claims that Elan Vital fails to meet its stated objectives as an educational charity.
Carpenter from South Bristol, said: "I find it difficult to understand how initial registration was granted."
A Charity Commission spokesman said: "We have received a complaint about the administration and status of the charity which will be given our full consideration."
Elan Vital is yet to make any comment.
Prem Rawat's "Knowledge" has three parts: regularly listening to his speeches, doing voluntary work for organisations serving him or donating money and daily meditation correctly practicing the four techniques he recommends. The techniques are so simple it's hard to see how they could be practiced incorrectly. First technique ("Divine Light") involves sticking your thumb and middle finger on your eyeballs (NB: with eyes closed) and your index finger between your eyebrows. Second technique: ("Heavenly Music") poking your thumbs into your ears and listening. Third technique: ("Holy Name") thinking about your breathing (NB: continue to breathe). Fourth technique: ("Nectar") curling your tongue backwards and tasting. Rawat's father taught slightly different techniques but either way it's difficult to see how these could produce the benefits claimed for them especially as Rawat claims His Knowledge is the only method of attaining real happiness and love in this life.