- Posts: 135
- Joined: 29 Dec 2018
I guess it would be okay to call them "cultist religion". In reality, their transformation has been more towards mainstream religious orgs. In India, we have ISHA Yoga, Art of Living, Nithyananda, Ramdev and a host of others. All with a good number of followers, and definitely rolling in money, much of it was in display just this past week during Maha Shivrathri. The current political environment is also very conducive for these organizations.
The main difference between BKs and others, is that BKs don't project a single figure as "the guru", while others do. This gives BKs the flexibility to change their projections according to their location - one for India, one for Australia, one for UK, one for USA, and so on. Unless someone is deeply involved with the BKs they wouldn't see these differences - to the point of being an issue.
As you have mentioned, as the "old" BKs pass away, the new ones and strategy are what is being cultivated now. Very much visible, with all the "Bhakts" approaches including statues, rituals etc. Add to it the media promotions. Why not, when you can fly business/first class, have a comfortable stay at whatever Center you are in. You will always have the "bottom of the totem pole" willing to take care of your needs and wish for your "drishti" on them.
The main difference between BKs and others, is that BKs don't project a single figure as "the guru", while others do. This gives BKs the flexibility to change their projections according to their location - one for India, one for Australia, one for UK, one for USA, and so on. Unless someone is deeply involved with the BKs they wouldn't see these differences - to the point of being an issue.
As you have mentioned, as the "old" BKs pass away, the new ones and strategy are what is being cultivated now. Very much visible, with all the "Bhakts" approaches including statues, rituals etc. Add to it the media promotions. Why not, when you can fly business/first class, have a comfortable stay at whatever Center you are in. You will always have the "bottom of the totem pole" willing to take care of your needs and wish for your "drishti" on them.