Rahul Gandhi’s Voter Adhikar Yatra: Unmasking the Gujarat Model in Bihar’s Heartland

In the sultry August heat of 2025, the dusty trails of Bihar have become the stage for a political spectacle that has gripped the nation's attention. Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, astride a motorcycle or waving from an open jeep, has embarked on a 16-day, 1,300-kilometer odyssey across Bihar, dubbed the Voter Adhikar Yatra. This journey, which began on August 17 in Sasaram and is set to culminate in a grand rally in Patna on September 1, is not just a political campaign but a bold crusade to challenge what Gandhi calls the Gujarat Model—a term he has redefined as a model of vote theft rather than economic progress. With the Bihar Assembly elections looming, his fiery rhetoric and sharp accusations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Election Commission of India (ECI) have ignited a fierce debate about electoral integrity and the state of Indian democracy.

A Yatra Steeped in Symbolism

The Voter Adhikar Yatra is a meticulously crafted campaign, weaving through over 20 districts of Bihar, from the historic plains of Sasaram to the bustling streets of Muzaffarpur and Sitamarhi. Accompanied by a formidable coalition of INDIA bloc leaders, including RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Rahul Gandhi has transformed this yatra into a powerful symbol of opposition unity. The sight of Rahul and Priyanka riding a Bullet motorcycle, with Tejashwi Yadav trailing in a red T-shirt, has become an iconic image, resonating with Bihar's masses who line the roads, chanting slogans like "Vote chor, gaddi chhodo" (Vote thieves, leave the throne).

The yatra's route is strategic, covering constituencies south and north of the Ganga, from Aurangabad to Katihar, and engaging with communities historically aligned with Congress—marginalized groups, minorities, and increasingly, disillusioned upper-caste voters. In Muzaffarpur, on the 10th day of the yatra, Rahul addressed a massive crowd at Jarang High School ground, his voice cutting through the humid air with a clarity that electrified his supporters. "The Gujarat Model is not an economic model; it is a model of vote chori," he declared, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of orchestrating electoral fraud that began in Gujarat before 2014 and was scaled nationally thereafter.

The Gujarat Model: A Narrative of Theft?

Rahul Gandhi's central charge is explosive: the much-touted Gujarat Model, long celebrated by the BJP as a paradigm of development and governance, is, in his view, a facade for systemic electoral manipulation. Speaking in Madhubani and Muzaffarpur, he alleged that the BJP, with the complicity of the ECI, has perfected a system of stealing votes by adding fake voters and deleting legitimate ones from electoral rolls. He pointed to Maharashtra, where he claims one crore votes were mysteriously added post-Lok Sabha elections, all favoring the BJP-led coalition. "We didn't say anything earlier because we had no proof. But in Maharashtra, they overdid it, and we found evidence," Gandhi asserted, promising to unveil irrefutable proof of this alleged fraud within six months.

He further criticized a 2023 law, the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, which he claims grants immunity to election commissioners, enabling them to act without accountability. "A laborer or farmer can face a case, but not the Election Commissioner. Why? Because vote theft is happening," he charged, pointing to the ECI's refusal to share voter lists or polling booth videography as evidence of collusion. In Bihar, he highlighted the deletion of 65 lakh voters' names during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging it disproportionately targeted the poor, Dalits, OBCs, and tribals. "They steal your vote, then your ration card, your land, and your homes, handing it all to Adani and Ambani," he thundered, framing vote theft as an assault on democracy itself.

A Broader Critique: Cronyism and Foreign Influence

Gandhi's critique extends beyond electoral fraud to a broader narrative of crony capitalism and compromised sovereignty. In Muzaffarpur, he accused the Modi government of prioritizing industrialists like Adani and Ambani through policies like the Agniveer scheme, which he claims undermines public sector jobs and pensions. He also raised eyebrows by referencing former US President Donald Trump's claim that Modi halted India's actions against Pakistan-based terror camps during Operation Sindoor in 2019 within five hours of Trump's directive. "Modi claims a 56-inch chest, but he's a shadow of Trump," Gandhi taunted, portraying the Prime Minister as yielding to foreign pressure.

Another startling accusation came in the form of unverified reports about political funding in Gujarat. Gandhi cited a Dainik Bhaskar report claiming that 10 obscure Gujarat-based political parties, which rarely contest elections, amassed ₹4,300 crore in donations between 2019 and 2024. "Where did this money come from? Who runs these parties? Where did it go?" he demanded, questioning the ECI's silence on the issue. This allegation, tied to Modi's home state, aims to puncture the BJP's narrative of clean governance and transparency.

Opposition Unity and Bihar's Revolutionary Spirit

The Voter Adhikar Yatra is as much about consolidating the INDIA bloc as it is about exposing alleged electoral malpractices. The presence of leaders like M.K. Stalin, who traveled 2,000 kilometers to join the yatra, and Revanth Reddy underscores a unified opposition front. Stalin, in a Tamil speech translated into Hindi, called the deletion of 65 lakh voters' names "more dangerous than terrorism" and praised Gandhi's courage. Tejashwi Yadav, the RJD's de facto chief ministerial candidate, referred to Rahul as "hamare bade bhai" (our elder brother), signaling a cohesive alliance ahead of the Bihar polls.

Bihar, with its history of revolutionary movements from Champaran to Jayaprakash Narayan's Total Revolution, is a fitting backdrop for Gandhi's campaign. "Bihar has always been the land of revolution," he declared in Darbhanga, invoking the state's legacy to frame the yatra as a fight for justice and equality. Observers note that Rahul's focus on marginalized communities and his ability to draw vibrant crowds echo his grandmother Indira Gandhi's 1980 comeback in Bihar. Yet, the challenge remains: can this groundswell translate into electoral success against the formidable NDA, which holds 131 seats in the 243-member Bihar Assembly?

The BJP's Counteroffensive

The BJP has not taken these accusations lightly. Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai dismissed Gandhi's claims as "frustration over defeat," insisting that the Gujarat Model represents "progress, development, and prosperity." Union Minister Giriraj Singh accused Gandhi of lying, asserting that the BJP's longevity in power stems from its work, not manipulation. The ECI, too, has pushed back, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar defending the SIR process and urging political parties to provide evidence rather than using "dirty phrases" like vote chori. However, Gandhi's retort—that the ECI's refusal to share voter data or preserve polling booth footage raises suspicions—has kept the pressure on.

A Movement or a Mirage?

As the Voter Adhikar Yatra winds through Bihar's heartland, it is clear that Rahul Gandhi is not just campaigning but attempting to ignite a national movement. By reframing the Gujarat Model as a symbol of electoral theft, he challenges the BJP's core narrative of development and seeks to galvanize voters disillusioned by economic inequality and democratic erosion. The yatra's success, however, hinges on whether Congress can substantiate its allegations with concrete evidence and convert public enthusiasm into votes.

For now, the dusty roads of Bihar reverberate with slogans and hope. Rahul Gandhi, once dismissed as a political lightweight, is carving a niche among the state's marginalized and disillusioned. Whether this yatra will reshape Bihar's electoral landscape or remain a fleeting moment of opposition fervor remains to be seen. But as the convoy moves toward Patna, one thing is certain: Rahul Gandhi's Voter Adhikar Yatra has thrown down a gauntlet, challenging the BJP's dominance and demanding accountability in India's democratic process.

Revolutionizing Online Business: Incodev Technologies' E-Commerce 360 Service

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, where online commerce forms the backbone of modern business, companies need more than just a website—they require a holistic ecosystem that drives growth, engages customers, and maximizes revenue. Incodev Technologies, a trailblazing firm renowned for its innovative solutions in digital transformation, delivers exactly that. With a proven track record of hassle-free implementations, seamless transitions, and expert change management, Incodev transforms complex technology challenges into effortless successes. Specializing in areas like Conga Revenue Lifecycle Management (RLM), AI agents, and system integrations, the company has completed over 80 successful projects across diverse sectors, including Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, Healthcare, Financial Services, and Software & Business. At the core of their offerings lies the E-Commerce 360 Service, a comprehensive suite designed to empower businesses with end-to-end online retail solutions, blending cutting-edge technology with strategic marketing to achieve unparalleled results.

The Core of E-Commerce 360: Tailored Implementation for Seamless Online Presence

Incodev Technologies' E-Commerce 360 Service starts with robust implementation, focusing on building customized platforms that are functional, scalable, and user-friendly. Leveraging industry-leading technologies like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce, Incodev's experts craft e-commerce sites with responsive designs that adapt seamlessly to any device, ensuring a smooth shopping experience for customers worldwide. This implementation phase minimizes operational disruption through the company's agile methodologies and stringent quality assurance processes. Whether a business is launching its first online store or upgrading an existing one, Incodev ensures effortless execution by integrating these platforms with clients' CRM and ERP systems, eliminating data silos and automating workflows.

What distinguishes Incodev is their commitment to 100% on-time, high-quality delivery. By adopting a client-focused approach, they conduct thorough process diagnostics and system configurations tailored to unique business needs. This results in platforms that support flexible pricing, accurate product documentation, and centralized data models—critical elements for managing everything from quote generation to contract execution in a revenue-optimized environment. In sectors like Hi-Tech or Financial Services, where precision is essential, Incodev's e-commerce implementations incorporate AI-powered tools to enhance personalization and efficiency, driving sustained growth without the complexities of traditional setups.

Amplifying Visibility: Digital Marketing Strategies That Convert

Beyond the technical foundation, Incodev's E-Commerce 360 Service excels in digital marketing, transforming online stores into revenue-generating powerhouses. Their data-driven strategies include Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, and compelling content creation, all designed to boost brand visibility and engage target audiences. Incodev's consultants collaborate closely with clients to develop campaigns that resonate, using analytics to refine tactics in real-time and drive measurable conversions.

Consider a manufacturing firm struggling to reach global buyers: Incodev steps in with targeted PPC ads that secure top spots in search results, paired with social media initiatives that build community and loyalty. Content creation plays a pivotal role, producing blog posts, videos, and infographics that inform while subtly guiding potential customers toward purchases. This integrated approach reduces operational complexities and enhances user experiences, aligning seamlessly with Incodev's expertise in revenue management. By syncing these marketing efforts with Conga RLM components like Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) and Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM), businesses can automate the entire quote-to-cash process, ensuring marketing leads translate into profitable sales.

Climbing the Ranks: SEO Services for Organic Dominance

No e-commerce strategy is complete without a strong focus on search engine optimization (SEO), and Incodev Technologies delivers this with precision in their E-Commerce 360 Service. Their SEO experts optimize product pages, refine site architecture, and conduct advanced keyword research to boost organic traffic and improve search engine rankings. By incorporating best practices and cutting-edge tools, Incodev helps businesses outmaneuver competitors in the crowded digital marketplace.

This service goes beyond basic tweaks, involving a deep analysis of user behavior and market trends to create SEO strategies that deliver long-term results. For example, in the Healthcare sector, where trust and visibility are critical, Incodev optimizes content for specific medical keywords, ensuring compliance with industry standards while enhancing discoverability. The outcome is increased revenue through higher organic reach, reduced reliance on paid ads, and a competitive edge that positions clients as industry leaders. Incodev's robust change management strategies further support this by providing tailored training and stakeholder alignment, ensuring a seamless transition to optimized e-commerce.

A Commitment to Excellence: Driving Business Success with Incodev

Incodev Technologies' E-Commerce 360 Service is more than a set of tools—it's a catalyst for transformation, enabling organizations to achieve strategic goals with confidence. By combining e-commerce implementation, digital marketing, and SEO into a unified offering, Incodev empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of online retail with ease. Their dedication to compliance, scalability, and ongoing support ensures clients not only launch successfully but also thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.

With a focus on exceeding expectations and fostering sustainable profitability, Incodev remains a trusted partner for companies seeking high-impact technology solutions. Whether integrating with Conga Suite for revenue optimization or deploying AI agents for smarter operations, Incodev's holistic approach ensures every aspect of e-commerce is covered. In an era where digital presence defines success, partnering with Incodev Technologies means embracing a future of growth, efficiency, and innovation.

Connect: https://incodevtech.com

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Mithila Foods and Goldiam Shine Bright: Indian Startups Secure Major Funding for Expansion

Two Indian startups, Mithila Foods and Goldiam International Ltd., are making waves in the FMCG and jewelry sectors, raising significant capital to fuel their ambitious growth plans. These funding rounds highlight the growing investor confidence in India's regional and sustainable consumer brands.

Mithila Foods, a Bihar-based FMCG startup, has secured Rs 1.5 crore in seed funding from AJVC, a venture capital firm led by Aviral Bhatnagar. Launched in January 2025 by founders Shubham Sunderka, Ankit Kumar, and Anshu Kumar, the company celebrates Bihar's culinary heritage with products like sattu, roasted chana, makhana, and katarni chuda. The startup has quickly gained traction, reporting an annualized revenue of Rs 3 crore, over 20 stock-keeping units, and a customer base of 25,000 across 4,000 pin codes in just five months.

The fresh capital will enable Mithila Foods to expand its distribution network, strengthen supply chains, and introduce new product categories inspired by regional flavors. Starting from a warehouse in Dumka, the company has already established a nationwide presence through e-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart, alongside offline retail in tier-I and tier-II cities. AJVC's investment, which typically involves Rs 1.5 crore for a 9 percent equity stake, aligns with its mission to back early-stage startups in underrepresented regions like Jharkhand and Assam.

In a parallel development, Goldiam International Ltd., a diamond jewelry exporter and emerging player in lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), has raised Rs 202 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP). Facilitated by Monarch Networth Capital, the QIP saw participation from prominent investors like Morgan Stanley. The funds will drive the expansion of Goldiam's consumer-facing LGD brand, ORIGEM, which plans to open 70 to 90 stores across India in the next 18 to 24 months.

Goldiam's fundraise is the largest in India's lab-grown diamond retail sector, nearly doubling the size of competing venture capital-backed deals. With six stores opened in the past 10 months, a debt-free balance sheet, and a history of returning nearly Rs 200 crore to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, Goldiam is poised for sustainable growth. The company projects 15% to 20% growth in sales and profitability this year, fueled by its global B2B operations and expanding B2C retail presence in India.

Anmol Bhansali, Director at Goldiam, emphasized the transformative potential of the fundraise: "This capital will help us accelerate ORIGEM's expansion and make lab-grown diamond jewelry more sustainable, accessible, and aspirational for Indian consumers."

These funding successes underscore the vibrant potential of India's startup ecosystem, with Mithila Foods and Goldiam leading the charge in their respective domains. As they scale up, both companies are set to redefine consumer experiences, blending regional authenticity and sustainable innovation.

TikTok and AliExpress Unblocked in India After Five-Year Ban

The Chinese video-streaming platform TikTok and the shopping website AliExpress have been unblocked in India after a five-year ban, marking a significant development in the country's digital landscape. However, the TikTok app remains unavailable on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The Indian government had imposed a ban on TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps in June 2020, citing national security concerns during heightened tensions with China following the Galwan Valley clash.

According to a report by Business Today, several users can now access TikTok's website in India, although the app itself is still not available for download. Neither TikTok nor its parent company, ByteDance, has issued an official statement regarding the platform's return to India. Similarly, AliExpress, a popular Chinese e-commerce platform, has also been unblocked, allowing users to access its website once again.

The ban on these apps was enforced under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which allows the government to block access to digital platforms deemed a threat to national security. Alongside TikTok, other apps like ShareIt, UC Browser, and UC News were also prohibited in 2020. The decision came at a time when India-China relations were strained, particularly due to border tensions.

The unblocking of TikTok's website coincides with signs of improving diplomatic relations between India and China. Recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi focused on maintaining peace along the border, resuming border trade, and encouraging investment. However, the Indian government has not yet made an official announcement regarding the lifting of the ban on the TikTok app itself.

Meanwhile, TikTok faces challenges in other parts of the world. In the United States, ByteDance has been issued an ultimatum to sell its operations or face a potential ban. Interestingly, the White House recently launched its official TikTok account, with its first post featuring a video of President Donald Trump. In the video, Trump stated, "Every day, I wake up determined to deliver a better life for the people of this country. I am your voice." The caption read, "America, we are back."

The partial return of TikTok and AliExpress in India has sparked discussions about the future of Chinese apps in the country. While the websites are now accessible, the absence of the TikTok app on major app stores suggests that the Indian government is proceeding cautiously. For now, users await further clarity on whether these platforms will fully resume operations in India.

Mrunmayi Desai: India's Leading Expert in CLM and CPQ

In India's fast-paced IT industry, where efficient contract management and smooth sales processes are vital for success, Mrunmayi Desai stands out as the country's top expert in Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) and Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ). As the Director, Technical at Incodev Technologies Pvt Ltd, based in Vadodara, Desai has transformed how businesses handle contracts and pricing workflows. With a perfect success rate across over 100 major CLM and CPQ projects, she is the go-to professional for companies in India seeking reliable, game-changing solutions.

Strong Academic Background

Desai's path to becoming India's leading CLM and CPQ expert started with a Masters' in Computer Science from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, a top global institution for technology and engineering. This strong academic foundation gave her deep knowledge in algorithms, software engineering, and systems design. These skills drive her innovative approach to CLM and CPQ. Her education sharpened her problem-solving abilities, allowing her to tackle complex IT challenges with precision and creativity, making her a key figure in India's tech scene.

Over a Decade of Expertise

With more than 10 years of experience in IT consulting and implementation, Desai has successfully completed over 100 high-profile CLM and CPQ projects for clients in industries like manufacturing, hi-tech, healthcare, financial services, and software. Before starting Incodev Technologies in 2021, she worked with Conga (formerly Apttus), a global leader in CLM and CPQ solutions. This experience sharpened her skills in using enterprise-grade tools and integrating CLM and CPQ with Salesforce platforms to boost efficiency and revenue.

As Managing Director of Incodev, Desai has made the company a trusted Conga Partner, delivering over 20 CLM and CPQ projects with flawless results. Her leadership focuses on innovation and client success, aligning with Incodev's mission to provide cutting-edge consulting services. Desai's blend of technical and functional expertise allows her to excel in improving business processes, designing enterprise systems, and mentoring teams, cementing her reputation as a thought leader in India's IT industry.

Certified Expertise and Unique Methods

As a certified CLM and CPQ expert, Desai is known for streamlining contract and pricing processes, improving efficiency, compliance, and risk management. Her work with Conga has made her an authority in integrating these systems with Salesforce, creating solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market. Desai's innovative implementation approach ensures smooth transitions for clients, with user-friendly integrations and proactive problem-solving that minimize disruptions and save costs.

Her 100 percent success rate reflects her meticulous attention to detail. Her projects consistently surpass client expectations, delivering faster processes, better scalability, and improved performance. This has made her a trusted partner for businesses across India, from startups to large enterprises, looking to optimize their contract and pricing systems.

Transforming Indian Industries

Through Incodev, Desai has led transformative CLM and CPQ projects that provide excellent user experiences and clear business results. Her work has empowered companies in critical sectors like finance and healthcare, where efficient contract management and accurate pricing are essential for compliance and growth. By addressing India-specific challenges, such as diverse regulations and complex processes, Desai has set a new standard for CLM and CPQ implementations in the country.

Beyond her technical achievements, Desai is a strong advocate for women in technology. Her LinkedIn article, "Women in Corporates & Startups," reflects her commitment to empowering women and fostering innovation in India's tech industry. Her leadership inspires the next generation, especially women, to break barriers and succeed in IT.

Looking Ahead

Desai's vision goes beyond CLM and CPQ. She plans to expand Incodev's expertise into emerging areas like IOT, Automation, and AI agents to meet the changing needs of Indian businesses. Her client-focused approach and technical skills position Incodev as a leader in connecting technology with business success in India.

Mrunmayi Desai's unmatched expertise and dedication have made her India's top authority in CLM and CPQ. As she leads Incodev Technologies, her influence is shaping the future of IT in India, showing that true expertise can deliver transformative results. With a legacy of innovation and success, Desai is a trailblazer and an inspiration, encouraging businesses and professionals to embrace seamless contract and pricing solutions.

Hema and Dharmendra's Secret Sholay Love Story Unveiled by Stunt Double

Fifty years after Sholay revolutionized Indian cinema, the off-screen romance between Hema Malini and Dharmendra continues to enchant fans. Their love, which sparked during the film's production, was a closely guarded secret on set, as revealed by Reshma Pathan, Hema Malini's stunt double. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, the 71-year-old Reshma shares juicy details about the couple's discreet affection and her own thrilling role in the iconic film.

Reshma, who executed all of Hema's daring stunts in Sholay, recalls, "Everyone on set knew Hemaji and Dharamji were in love, but they kept it under wraps. They stayed apart during shoots, each with their own crew." Despite staying in the same hotel, they maintained separate rooms and entourages. "Back then, actors kept their personal lives private. Hemaji spent time with her team, including me, while Dharamji stuck with his," she explains. Reflecting on their lasting bond, Reshma says with pride, "Seeing them together today is heartwarming. They're a true Bollywood love story."

Directed by Ramesh Sippy and written by Salim-Javed, Sholay, featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, and Jaya Bachchan alongside Hema and Dharmendra, remains a cinematic landmark. For Reshma, the film was life-changing. "I became 'The Sholay Girl' after this. No other project earned me such respect," she shares. Her close bond with Hema led to collaborations in multiple films. "We'd eat and chat together; she even welcomed me into her home," Reshma recalls.

A standout memory is a risky Holi sequence stunt, after which Dharmendra gifted her ₹100. "I hesitated, but my mentor urged me to accept it, saying Dharamji was thrilled with my work," she chuckles. Another iconic moment, Basanti's tonga crash, came with a price. "The crew forgot to use a prop wheel, and the tonga collapsed on me. I needed 17 stitches in my leg, bruised my other leg, and injured my back, but that scene became legendary," she says.

Hema and Dharmendra's romance began in 1970 on Tum Haseen Main Jawaan. They tied the knot in 1980 and have two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. The pair starred in blockbusters like Seeta Aur Geeta and Dream Girl, solidifying their status as Bollywood's golden couple. As Sholay marks its 50th anniversary, Reshma's tales remind us why the film and its real-life romance remain unforgettable.

The Price of Devotion: Art of Living’s “Mandatory Donation” Sparks Exodus

In the heart of India's spiritual landscape, where the teachings of Sudarshan Kriya—a powerful breathing technique—have uplifted countless lives, a growing unease is rippling through the Art of Living (AOL) community. The organization, built on the pillars of Seva (selfless service), Satsang (community in truth), and Sadhana (spiritual practice), has long been a beacon for those seeking inner peace. Yet, a recent policy requiring a "mandatory donation" of 2 lakhs (200,000 rupees) for teachers aspiring to become Sahaj Samadhi instructors has ignited a firestorm of criticism. This steep financial barrier, coupled with the organization's non-paying teacher model, has led many dedicated teachers to question the alignment of AOL's practices with its preached philosophy—and many are walking away.

For years, AOL teachers have embodied the spirit of seva, offering Sudarshan Kriya and Happiness Program workshops without financial compensation. These teachers, often sacrificing stable careers and personal savings, travel to urban slums and rural villages, spreading messages of joy and mindfulness. Their work is rooted in the belief that service is its own reward, a tenet echoed in AOL's teachings. But the introduction of a 2-lakh "donation" to access Sahaj Samadhi teacher training—a program that promises to deepen one's ability to guide others into effortless meditation—has shattered this idealism for many.

The term "mandatory donation" itself is a point of contention. Framed as a contribution to support the ashram's global initiatives, it functions as a non-negotiable fee. Teachers, already stretched thin by unpaid service, face a stark choice: pay a sum equivalent to months of income or forgo advancing their spiritual and teaching journey. For many, this feels less like seva and more like a transaction—one that contradicts the non-materialistic ethos AOL promotes. The suggestion that this payment is an "investment" only deepens the unease. Teachers aren't salaried; course fees flow directly to the organization. Recovering such a sum would require pushing more enrollments or subtly prioritizing paid programs, turning selfless service into a business model. "Is this what sadhana has become?" one former teacher wrote anonymously online. "A paywall for devotion?"

This policy is not an isolated grievance. Whispers in teacher circles and online forums reveal a broader pattern. Volunteers pay hundreds to learn how to volunteer, teachers shell out thousands for mandatory trainings, and advanced courses come with hefty price tags—$5,500 for teacher training in the US, with similar "donations" in India piling up. Critics argue this creates a hierarchy where only the financially privileged can ascend, while grassroots teachers, often the backbone of AOL's outreach, are left struggling. Reports of the organization's leadership enjoying lavish lifestyles—private jets, grand events—while teachers scrape by have fueled accusations of a spiritual empire profiting off devotion.

The fallout is evident: many teachers have started going away from Art of Living after this. Disillusioned by what they see as a betrayal of the organization's core values, they are leaving quietly or voicing their dissent in anonymous blogs and forums. "True seva doesn't demand a bank balance," one ex-teacher wrote. "Satsang shouldn't exclude the poor. Sadhana isn't a product to be sold." These voices, once drowned out by the organization's global reach, are growing louder, joining a chorus of former devotees who feel AOL has strayed from its mission.

The Sahaj Samadhi training fee is more than a financial burden; it's a symbol of a deeper rift. For those who remain, the question lingers: Can an organization preaching the art of living justify turning devotion into a commodity? For the many who have left, the answer is clear—they've found their own "Sahaj," a spontaneous freedom, not in the ashram's halls but in walking away from a philosophy that feels increasingly like a business. As the exodus grows, AOL faces a critical challenge: reconcile its practices with its preachings or risk losing the very souls who once carried its message to the world.