Within India’s rich tapestry of spirituality, numerous revered gurus and babas stand out, their teachings resonating far beyond the confines of their ashrams and devotees. Boasting millions of followers worldwide, these spiritual leaders have amassed substantial wealth and wield immense influence, molding the country’s spiritual terrain. Let’s delve into the lives of the seven wealthiest and most influential spiritual gurus and babas.
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev:
Renowned for his pragmatic outlook on spirituality and yoga, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, the founder of the Isha Foundation, stands as a prominent spiritual figure. With a global following numbering in the millions, his estimated net worth, according to the Times of India, stands at Rs 18 crore, as of 2023. Sadhguru’s influence extends across yoga centers, educational institutions, and ecological projects within his empire. Through his teachings, he imparts wisdom on inner engineering and holistic living principles.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the esteemed founder of the Art of Living Foundation, stands as a global spiritual luminary, renowned for his unwavering commitment to peace, meditation, and humanitarian endeavors. With an extensive following exceeding 300 million individuals across 151 nations, his influence resonates far and wide. According to India Today, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar embarked on his study of Vedic literature at the tender age of six, completing his education by seventeen. His transformative Art of Living courses have touched the lives of millions worldwide, fostering stress-free living and fostering harmonious coexistence. The Times of India estimates his net worth to be Rs 1000 crore, inclusive of assets such as healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and Art of Living centers.
Baba Ramdev:
Baba Ramdev, a yoga guru and visionary entrepreneur, has spearheaded a transformation in India’s wellness industry through his Patanjali Ayurveda empire. Hailing from a farming background in Haryana, he endured a 15-year struggle, teaching yoga in Haridwar along the way. Presently, he presides over Patanjali Yogpeeth and Divya Yog Mandir Trust, along with numerous branches. His net worth is estimated to surpass Rs 1600 crore.
Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma):
Mata Amritanandamayi, a Hindu guru and humanitarian, hails from Kerala, where she was born on September 27, 1953. Fondly known as Amma, she oversees the Amritanandamayi Trust, reportedly possessing assets valued at around Rs 1500 crore, as per The Times of India.
Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh:
Ram Rahim stands out as one of India’s wealthiest spiritual leaders. Since 1990, he has led the organization with remarkable influence. A significant number of Harijans and Dalits rally behind Ram Rahim Singh. His estimated net worth is approximately Rs 1455 crores.
Asaram Bapu:
Asaram Bapu oversees a network of 350 ashrams globally, along with ownership of 17,000 Bal Sanskar Kendras. As of 2021, his Trust generated an annual revenue of around 350 crore rupees, as per several reports.
Sadhguru Nithyananda:
Swami Nithyananda established the Nithyananda Dhyanapeetam Foundation, which spans temples, gurukuls, and ashrams worldwide. His estimated net worth is around Rs 10,000 crore, The Times Of India reported.
