In the 1990s, Narayan Hari, also known as Bhole Baba, retired from the police force and embraced spirituality after what he described as divine intervention. He quickly amassed a large following in states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. However, tragedy struck when a stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in the deaths of 121 people, all devotees of Bhole Baba.
Hari, a native of Bahadur Nagari village in Etah district, comes from a background that combines traditional values with modern spirituality. His followers come from diverse backgrounds, including SC/ST, OBC, and Muslim communities.
Bhole Baba’s journey began with working on his family farm before joining the police force. After 18 years of service in various roles, including the Intelligence Unit, he voluntarily retired in the 1990s, marking a significant turning point in his life.
Following his retirement, Hari underwent a transformation and adopted the name Sakar Vishwahari. Claiming to have had a divine encounter with God, he shifted his focus to serving humanity and sharing spiritual wisdom. Unlike typical spiritual leaders, Bhole Baba can often be seen in a suit and white shoes, maintaining a unique appearance.
His teachings revolve around devotion to God and the well-being of humanity, without seeking donations or offerings. Instead, his mission is driven by the invitation of his devotees to hold meetings and gatherings, which draw large crowds at his ashram in Bahadur Nagar, Etah.
Hari’s influence extends beyond Uttar Pradesh, reaching neighbouring states where he spreads spiritual teachings. He also has a strong presence on social media, with a significant following on platforms like YouTube and Facebook.
Within his organization, Bhole Baba has a dedicated group of followers called the Sevadar Army, who assist in managing his events and providing services such as water, food, and traffic control. Water distribution at these gatherings is believed to have spiritual significance and the power to resolve personal issues.
Despite his spiritual prominence, Bhole Baba has faced controversies in the past. One notable incident occurred in May 2022 during the Covid-19 pandemic when he organized a gathering in Farrukhabad that exceeded the attendance limit set by the district administration, resulting in logistical issues and legal action against the organizers.
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