The Madras High Court’s recent questioning of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s teachings on renunciation has ignited a firestorm on social media. The court, while directing the Tamil Nadu government to submit details of criminal cases against Isha Foundation, expressed its bewilderment about why Sadhguru, who married off his daughter, encourages other women to renounce worldly life and become hermits.
The court’s comments, reported by Bar and Bench, sparked a wave of reactions online. Many users slammed the court for what they perceive as a systematic campaign against Sadhguru, while others supported the court’s inquiry, claiming it was asking the right questions.
“Dear @AmitShah & @narendramodi: seems like a systematic campaign against Sadhguru,” a user tweeted, expressing their frustration. Another user, claiming to have followed Sadhguru for seven years, asserted that Sadhguru never encourages people to become hermits or socialites, stating that it’s a personal choice. They further highlighted that even marriage rituals happen at Sadhguru’s ashram.
Supporters of Sadhguru also chimed in, explaining that the process of becoming a sanyasi is not a simple decision, and that it requires a long and dedicated journey where individuals have ample opportunity to reflect and choose their path. One woman argued that the high court’s understanding of ‘living the life of a hermit’ is simplistic, and that Sadhguru encourages individuals to live life fully while respecting the human body.
The debate also extended to Sadhguru’s daughter, who chose a traditional life path of marriage. A user argued that her choice should not be used as a basis to question Sadhguru’s teachings on renunciation. Others emphasized that becoming a sanyasi is a personal choice, and that it’s a challenging path that individuals embark on voluntarily.
The Madras High Court’s intervention has once again brought the spotlight onto Sadhguru’s teachings and the concept of renunciation within his organization. The court’s questioning, though controversial, has sparked a crucial discussion about the nature of choice, personal beliefs, and the interpretation of spiritual practices. This debate is sure to continue as the court delves deeper into the workings of Isha Foundation and the alleged criminal cases against it.
