Hindustan Times

Subscribe to Just PeopleNews FeedSubscribe to Just PeopleComments

HT Home / Blogs Home > Just People / India / Fake ascetic

Fake ascetic



So I was right about Ramdev. The self styled yoga guru could not sustain a fast and discontinued it mid-way. He was unable to stay hungry and gave into “persuasion” by all those who grew concerned about his health.

It was on June 4 that Ramdev began his fast unto death called the “Satyagraha against corruption”. He had vowed to call it off only if the government drafted a strong anti corruption Bill. He had demanded death sentence for the corrupt as the main clause in the proposed legislation.

The Government did not budge. Far from even appearing to take note of Ramdev’s protest or express concern about his health, it watched the events unfolding from the sidelines. And when Ramdev could not carry his cause for more than eight days, it had the last laugh. Rightly and justifiably.

Baba Ramdev arrives to address a press conference in Haridwar.

First the so called guru jumps off the stage in panic when cops descend on Ramlila ground and is among the first few to run instead of facing up to them; then he escapes in a feminine attire which fit him so well that it was difficult to believe that it was borrowed and not tailor-made for him. The he lands in Uttaranchal and announces a fast unto death which he cannot sustain beyond a few days—eight to be precise. And even in those eight days his health deteriorated faster than an average man’s would. He was admitted to hospital given that he was suffering from a low pulse rate and dehydration.

It took little effort for Congress’ Digvijay Singh to call Ramdev a “fake ascetic”. Singh said: “Jain monks fast for at least 25-30 days and drink only water throughout. But this great ascetic could not fast for five days? This is the only difference between a fake ascetic and a real one”. He added: “If he had kept a fast for some demands then he should not have broken it without their being fulfilled. It was all a nautanki”. A farce.

Baba Ramdev tears up as he speaks to journalists from his ashram in Haridwar.

At the risk of being ripped apart by Ramdev’s followers many among them who abused me when I had agreed with Digvijay Singh calling him a thug, I would go along with Singh’s latest observation about his being a fake ascetic.

I have yet another score to settle with Ramdev besides his dubious deals and the large amounts of wealth he has amassed. And that is his call to his cadres for an armed rebellion. Is he engineering a war within the state? Or instigating people to take up arms and disrupt peace? I think Digvijay failed on this count: In addition to taking on Ramdev on his yogic powers, rather absence of them, he should also have rapped him for his provocative statements and branded him as an anti national. To me Ramdev is nothing short of that. Anyone who can call for an armed rebellion and uprising against the state is insane and anti national. Ramdev fits the bill.

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (73 votes, average: 2.38 out of 5)
Loading ... Loading ...

Posted by Kumkum Chadha on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 10:28 pm 
Filed under India · Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

  · Comment (RSS) · Trackback
  • http://- Rajeev

    This blog is sponsored by congress’s dirty tricks department.
    A corrupt journalist is trying to expose other..what a farce!!! I find kumkum and most of the HT journos Thugs and fake journos.

    [Reply]

    rahul@yahoo.com Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 2:32 am

    100% agree with you

    [Reply]

    Guest Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:08 am

    But can you say that what ever he’s written is not true. He’s absolutely right. You so called supporters of Ramdev is blind who can’t see his real intentions.

    [Reply]

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:15 am

    All truths about dhogi babas are ’sponsored’ by congress. And if someone fools massed, then all are happy. lol.

    [Reply]

    Rocky Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:35 am

    This one sided blog is unworthy of a reporter. Basic journalism teach is to write both sides of a story and then let the public decide the verdict. You seem to have already reached the verdict. I think you need to go back to a reputable school for retraining. This article also is a testament to the pro gov stance of HT. Naturally, it is convenient to toe the line to get the goodies. Yes, Ram Dev has many faults. But he has done a tremendous good to the country through popularizing yoga and Ayurvedic medicine. Millions of people all over the world are living healthier lives because of Ram Dev. We have to give credit where credit is due and you, as a rotter have miserably failed in that.

    [Reply]

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:46 am

    Rokey the Journalist………he has not done anything but made billions. You are educated – can you do that? I doubt it…………that is the difference…the media. Unless you have a blind faith in him…it is not difficult to see what is and what he has done foe himself or if he is really a yogic or not when he cannot fast for more than 3 days

    jogesh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:05 am

    So you confess tha Ramdev has many faults? I think he is a slimy gunk. I would like to ask you If you have met anyone who was cured by yoga? If Yoga turns a man into frail/undernourished body like Ramdev, I thinlk Ill rather stick to western gym for toning and muscle building. All of sudden people of India are against corrupt system, something they built for decades. There are corrupt people in UPA, are all BJP ministers clean? Is corruption only limits to politicians? The corruption of hearts among common man is worse than politicians. You go buy anything for Rs 9.50. 90% of the time vendor will try to sell you for Rs 10.

    Niraj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:30 am

    I Believe in what Rocky says. i think their are some decisions which Ramdev would have done better that night, like by standing there for arrest but whatever the issue he have raised is very plausible.i give him all credit in popularizing yoga in India and Nepal. He has got atleast 10 million followers in Nepal only .all the people i know in Nepal, they do his yoga and has been truly thankful to him and many have visited his Ashram. This is a great achievement. He has also popularised the authentic Ayurvedic system which author has very little knowledge Which is gaining popularity in West also. The cause of corruption no matter what his intention is also very laudable and courageous. No one will do nay thing in this world if its not directly or indirectly helpful for him-Vivekananda.we all needs merits even to progress in spiritual life also. Because he is a Baba or ascetic, people like the author want him to be in Himalayas and caves only which is not the case. Everyone has right to go for the call his heart or mind say, specially when the country is so corrupted and Politicians have lost touch with the people and are powerless to do anything for the good of the country. People like the author are the one who are corrupting people’s mind instead of divulging facts that are true. current politicians and ministers are not the only authority of the governace system, they are their for some time, the system itself is great not the particular people of some time. Those who are saying that civilians are gainst elected government shd understand this. Elected Governement doesn’t mean that you can do all the time. When you got license to drive for 5 years, you are not meant to crush common people in the road for five years. they shd be punished and sent to jail, specailly more in politicians because they have acted against the expectancy of the mass of people. India shd make a law that recalls its MPS if its going in wrong tract and looting people. Most of the present leaders in present Government are just trying to save themselves and blaming the crusader Ramdev or Anna or civil society, but not addressing the real issue. i had a lot respect to the Congress, i thought they were truly secular and democratic at least in upper level… Lost all faith the way they are dealing this whole issue and shouting like Hitlers and Gaddafi.

    Niraj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:53 am

    just quoting different poll the zee news has been doing..many has stood against corruption and many has openly doubt abot the Present Government…its not the matter of one party or another.. this has divided and make the real cause weak…people shd unite on the basis of truth not based one comments of Digvijay Singh who cannot control his one tongue in front of whole world.. i can only guess what he will do in his fast in his second day.. and continuously do yoga and travel and address people all throughout it like Ramdev did..he is just maligning Ramdev like his political apponent..when Ramdev didn’t come in the terms of what his party or he believes .after initially trying to placate him..even some congress MPS has said the Goverment has said is wrong.

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:30 am

    It is pathetic that people in India have so blind faith and cannot see beyond religion, faith and these babas. It is a plain truth that the baba is nothing – why he could not sustain even for 5 days while another baba survived for alost 40 days.

    What has he done: Nothing. There is nothing new – yoga is not his heritage but is our culture – he is simply a medium and has manipulated the media. Nothing else. He has gained so much because land and funds were given to him for the purpose of a good cause – human health. He paid no money and no tax and became the richest baba. He is a businessman? Why was he against all multinationals and modern medicines because he wants to sell his stuff. Some of which has been proved contaminated and has no medicinal value. Such a FAKE person can only happen in India.

    Until recently he wanted to context elections from all seats. No he has withdrawn from that…he knows he cannot win a single seat. No education, nothing made him power hungery….now he wants to raise an army…..Come on the media…..you made him for no reason….now it is time to……

    [Reply]

    jogesh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:46 am

    The verbal violence is not a civilized act in public forum Mr Rajeev. Why all Baba’s followers are violent and non-tolerant, towards different opinions? Just amuses me. Why their small brains fails to compute that elected members can be removed by voting, not by violence- verbal, emotional, or physical. Baba himself relied on allopath to save his life, for someone, who claims to cure cancer.

    One thing is for sure, the reason why India is still a third world country after almost 70 years of independence, is because that mental state of educated people like Rajeev.

    [Reply]

  • Rahul

    Clearly sponsored and paid by the COngrass party.. HTee appears to have sold its soul to the Italian. What a shame. 65 years of looting, corruption, nepotism and minority appeasement. And some people still willing to sell their motherland. Shame on u Mr.Editor.

    [Reply]

    Jay Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 2:11 am

    What are the credentials of this Journalist?? Grade 8 Drop out??? Do what Baba Ramdev has done for 20 years , revolutionise Yoga around the world with millions of followers before you write your ****

    [Reply]

    Anup Singh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 2:20 am

    It is shame. The person who wrote article is trying to protect corrupt people, corrupt congress government and on the top of it he is supporting Digvijay Singh. What a big joke. Digvijay Singh is not only a fail CM and corrupt politician, he is also a mentally ill person, he calls baba ramdev nautanki and call world’s worst terrorist Osama, Osama Ji… And this person, Kumkum Chadha, is supporting him.. what can be said about the his mental condition and his ethic value. Person like Kumkum Chadha can sell his own mother for money, I am sure about it.

    [Reply]

    PG Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 3:26 am

    When people go against CONs
    * VP singh suddenly had Saint Kits accounts.
    * Anna is BJP’s supported.
    * Ramdev is probed for black money.
    …

    [Reply]

  • richie

    First of all author has to introspect who she is and where does she stands? What are her contributions towards eradicating corruption from the country? Has she ever taken a 2 day fast in her life forget about 9 days. And whether a person with utmost respect for topmost terrorist ala Osamaji and sympathizer of slain-ed Batla House terrorists is her utmost nationalist icon? A thug is not by name calling but by dubious actions. And this government and its politicians have proved who are the biggest thugs here.
    Well I think its not author’s fault because they most of the times act as “paid” agent. Everyone has right to earn their bread but only a sensible person introspect whether the bread is actually earned by him or he had pawned his ideals when someone throws a loaf of bread in front of him.

    [Reply]

    ANIL Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 2:55 am

    Shame on you for being an instrument of the corrupts! What Ramdev does or not should it really be an issue? By your actions, what you are doing is giving breathing space to corrupts! How much you get paid for this?

    [Reply]

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:17 am

    Writer is not commenting on corruption, but on truth about this ‘baba’ which all can see, but can’t see though.

    [Reply]

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:32 am

    Make a reasoned point or else shut up!

    [Reply]

    Udayakumar Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:55 am

    I fully agree with you ANIL

    [Reply]

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:20 am

    Excellent response

    [Reply]

    Rohit Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:16 am

    I did not have the patience to read your article. Your first sentence itself tells the kind of journalism you do. Baba Ramdev was fasting for 9 days, that too not sitting in 1 place. Try fasting for a day while in action, you’ll die by evening. You HT journalists like Vinod Sharma, Pankaj Vohra, you guys get bag full of money from Akbar road and you can write anything to support the corrupt congress or discredit anybody who talks against congress….Shameless

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:21 am

    Tx richie, your abusive language notwithstanding, let me clarify that I am neither a yogi nor a crusader. I am a professional journalist and my job is to write and not to fast or publicize what I stand for.

    [Reply]

    josh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:34 am

    Surely, by writing this blog, you have precisely “publicized what you stand for”. Rajeev probably agrees you are a “pro” journalist, not necessarily professional.

    [Reply]

    Ramesh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:37 am

    Wondering where you felt abused in that post.
    And who is the author by the way ?

    [Reply]

    B K Singh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:49 am

    I am deeply saddened by the polarized news paper article. If you read HT, its pro congress and if you read indian express, its pro BJP. This does make me believe that these journalists are paid to write these stuff. Looking at the big picture, Ramdev raised a very genuine issue- these politicians/journalists are trying to deflect the attention to meaningless issues..what difference it makes whether he fast for 8 or 80 days, the real issue whether he brought to our attention a very important issue..Baba popularise the yoga science to the world which was weaning away from India..Instead of finding faults, we should introspect and serve as an Indian rather than raising these trivial facts..By not supporting corruption, we are involuntarily committing corruption- This journalist doesnt deserve a blog in this newspaper.

    [Reply]

    concerned citizen Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:57 am

    Kumkum,

    You did not reply to richie’s point on Digvijay Singh. Was it appropriate for him to say Osamaji? Why does he not rail against corruption in the country? As a journalist, is it not your duty to expose the communal politics that Digvijay and Congress practices?

    Thanks.

    [Reply]

    M Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:09 am

    Well I never read an article praising baba on this issue. So will agree with Richie and people who discount writings like this. Did you ever asked Digvijay singh, whats wrong with his demands? Why we stray over an issue and take a dig on people who stands for the right cause. I think shame on jurno community here.

    [Reply]

    Omar Jama Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:12 am

    I am quoting you “I am a professional journalist “. As a journalist, did you try to find the facts about the “Black money and Corruption” in India. Well, we know the answer.

    Facts are everywhere about India’s Black money. BBC is the main site where you can find the wonderful deeds of corrupt Indians including the GHANDI family. So, the question is, what are the so called Journalists are doing in India? Why don’t you guy’s expose the corrupt especially the rulers?

    Remember, if govt. is doing its job, there will be no need of civil socity and Ramdev to do any protest. Media people like you are biased. Instead of picking on Civil society and Ramdev, find the facts who is stealing India’s wealth and expose them.

    [Reply]

    sam Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:24 am

    please write with some sense writing nonsense does not makes u a journlist ,how many polticians have been framed sofar for corruption look at jayalalita yshe the same person who spent 100 crs on her god sons weeding remember few yrs back do u know the status of that case, or bofors, if someone is trying to work for community you guys want to character assain him by publising all false allegations ,what wrong has anna and ramdev done by taking common man cause ,it seems jouno s r not common person because they are near dear to the policy makers who are far away from realty .pl get a realty check on ur self.
    thanks for nonsense writing

    [Reply]

    Amit Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:56 am

    Who is this Kumkum Chadhdha? Name itslef suggests a female. Then her sirname is wrong, it should have been Chaddi.
    So she is fake journalist. She appears much like bed warmer of congress people.
    What improvement Ramdevji has done to middle and lower midlle class of society can never be imagined to be done by born corrupt and scoundrels of congress or even by hteir paid journalistic prostitute like Chaddi and alikes.

    rana arun singh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 9:52 am

    well said! ramdev came with a tailor made ladies suite. he jumped first after seeing the police. he could not last 8 days of fasting. he is rss-bjp crook.

    And what happened to the black money?

    Didn’t Nehru hired someone to kill Gandhi?

    Prem Aggarwal Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:29 am

    As a Jouralist you should know that wrong writing and reporting is not a healthy sign for the country. Better stand and write against Corruoption and Black Nmoney prevailing in the Country. Try to undertake a Fast even for a Day and Try to do some work for the People of India. Register a Trust like BABA RAM DEV and feel yourself why the People of india are after Baba. On one call during the Elkections, he can change the Pattern of Governing. Only Honest and Sincere people will be elected. You do not understand his Power of People. he is more prominent than any other Politician, even you,. you are nothing just making your bread and Butter by reporting against the people who are doing selfless jobs.

    Be a Good and honest Jouralist. Otherwise, you will be eliminitated like J. Dey. J. Dey was right in his reporting and was fighting against the corrupt System. But you can not because of your timid attitude. You are Coward and Timid.

    [Reply]

    Guest Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:44 am

    Cheap and shallow article. Author is almost blinded by the “anti-ramdev” feeling than “anti-corruption” feeling. I just don’t know how apples like these can lift the pen and write in reputed newspapers like this. Author is clearly also pro-Digvijay (read congress) and that showed in his/her analysis. Wasted my time reading this rubbish. And yes, any one who would disagree with this apple would directly be taken to “abuse” him and be a defacto “ramdev” support. You are such a ****!

    richie Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:51 am

    Ma’am I was not a bit abusive in anyway. I am aghast by the low level of present journalism standard of our country and saying what I perceive and many of my well qualified friends believe in. Even blogs/editorials in Pakistani dailies provide much better analysis of the happenings in their own country. My only problem is that you are willing to accept the argument of a politician of the likes of Digvijay Singh. Have you ever tried to explore the other side of story. What if Baba would not have addressed the crowd to calm down after jumping of the stage in case of his arrest? There may be a chance of even bigger mishap. And another rule of the struggle/battle is that once you are driven out of the battle field there is no point in wielding the sword or shooting the arrows. Baba’s struggle might have its own shortcomings, but it does not mean that he does not have right to speak his mind or we should completely ridicule him. At least he is better than our present PM who don’t even have courage to face the nation in situations of crisis and much better than the ministers in government who have left no stone unturned in looting the exchequer.
    I would only request you to please understand the resentment among general public and regard their opinion. Don’t live in fools paradise that such comments on your blogs are handiwork of some vested interests and it does not bother you at all. If today’s media would have remained focused on the main issue of corruption rather than playing in the hands of politicians whose only intention is to digress the public attention to hide their own faults, Indian media wold have earned a whole lot of respect of the common man of the country.

    [Reply]

    Stay Mum Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:09 am

    Richie — I think you are wasting your time. Being “reasonable” does not make sense on this blog. It is worthy of being outrightly rejected.

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:17 am

    Perfectly said !!! Lets not forget the elite leadership of India that has shamelesly looted the nation where vast majority of Indians still cannot have two full meals to eat. The politicians are hell-bent on distracting from the main issue with nonsensical and irrelevant arguments about how long a man should be able to go without food to proove he is not a evil being..

    jogesh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:20 am

    You just compared our present PM with Ramdev. ‘MMS is a honest man’ even his enemies say that. MMS probably spent more time studying than years Ramdev lived. Ramdev amassed wealth blindly while our PM and his family still leads a mediocre life. Don’t know about you but I think its unjustified to MMS to compare him with what ? a baba?

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:23 am

    I support Richie, KumKum Chadda considering that you are a professional Journalist .
    Considering that fact that you were taking sides in your article and also expressing your opinions(I agree).

    I am seriously re-considering the trust i have in the standards of your Organization.

    Shekhar Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:40 am

    Hi,

    If you are not a yogi, how would you dare to pass comments about them. It is as straight as that. How could you determine if one is fake yogi or not when you yourself admit to know nothing about yoga.

    On another note, I see no comments from you about the main issue “CORRUPTION”. Anybody who fasts even for 1minute for eradicating corruption is appericable. Even if RAVAN will fast a few days for this noble casue I will support him.

    Please introspect yourself. I call your journalism to a be fake one. An absolute fake.

    [Reply]

    Manish Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:09 am

    what do you expect from Ramdev… he should have continued fasting and die like Nigamanand!! Would that have pleased you?? Another yogi committed suicide! Atleast he tried but then refused to die like Nigamanand and thats his personal choice as good as anybody else’s like you and me who don’t want to fast to begin with! What for?? I am a chemist by profession and best wishes to ramdev all the way from Florida. And a big Booooo to this article.

    [Reply]

    Joshi Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:53 am

    Dis Respected Madam ,
    If you feel you are respected enough , pl write some blogs on Digi’s comments on Osama ji’s and Batla House encounter….Pl dont go by the number of days Baba could go on fast , go by the cause of eradicating corruption ….If He has gathered money by unfair means , He should also be tried by the same laws , which He has been advocating….

    What are your comments on mid night lathi charge on innocent people in Democratic country like ours…

    [Reply]

    HPN Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 10:54 am

    @ Joshi

    You are unlikely to get her comments on mid night lathi charge on innocent people. But don’t mind. That will only prove yours and richi’s points. Moreover, if she comments on the lathi charge, she will only try to justify it and that will further expose her bias.

    Shant Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:56 am

    It does not matter if Ramdev is farce or not. At least he is standing upto politicians for the good of the country. Folks who are against his crusade are faggots and corrupt themselves, ask yourself what have you done for your country!!

    [Reply]

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:24 am

    I could ask you the same thing – what is yours or this Ramdev’s contribution to the people? You take 10 dollars in donation, give back 1-2? What about the rest of the 8? Charity is not a profitable business mind you. Making foolish comments doesn’t make you smart – Kumkum questions Ramdev – that’s her right – you, then question Kumkum (not Ramdev) – as if she is obligated in any way, on what basis? Ramdev is seeking public spot light no her, Kumkum is selling an opinion, like you are, so how is her credibility in question and yours not?

    Your question would only be logical should you question Ramdev or Digvijay, people with vested political interests, not the media or people selling opinions.

    I ask you – what have you done to warrant this space at all? If we go by your logic, everyone would have to shut up, including you.

    [Reply]

    Joshi Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:57 am

    I used be asked by my non Indian friends who have very honestly practising Yoga , the why we Indians ( MOST OF US) dont practise it . Yoga was almost forgotten in its country of origin..Baba Ramdev’s contribution is that He has revived YOGA in its country of Origin…

    [Reply]

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:04 pm

    And so we must all tolerate his fraudulence. Surely, the bar to command respect from Indians is higher than that.

    Guest Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 12:16 pm

    @Raj: Dude, you just don’t make sense. Pity!

    [Reply]

    SKS_Mumbai Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 3:35 pm

    So as per you:

    “The Government did not budge. Far from even appearing to take note of Ramdev’s protest or express concern about his health, it watched the events unfolding from the sidelines. And when Ramdev could not carry his cause for more than eight days, it had the last laugh. Rightly and justifiably”

    And as per you a couple of weeks ago:

    “I may not agree with the government bending over backwards and rolling the red carpet for a man who does not deserve any attention, least of all the government’s; neither can I digest that four senior ministers went to the airport to receive Ramdev: Make God out of a minion and the consequences will be yours to suffer. That apart you would be a laughing stock. This is exactly what happened to the Government and this is what it deserves for behaving so stupidly when it has come to self-styled crusaders.”

    So how does
    >>> “bending over backwards and rolling the red carpet for a man”
    turn into
    >>> “far from even appearing to take note of” in about 15 days?

    And how did sumone you had found to have become a

    >>>”a laughing stock and that also “what it deserved for behaving so stupidly”

    >>> turns out to be having the “LAST LAUGH” in 15 days?

    Either you didn’t write the other piece or you just ………………….

  • Anup Singh

    It is same. The person who wrote article is trying to protect corrupt people, corrupt congress government and on the top of it he is supporting Digvijay Singh. What a big joke. Digvijay Singh is not only a fail CM and corrupt politician, he is also a mentally ill person, we call baba ramdev nautanki and call world’s worst terrorist Osama, Osama Ji… And this person, Kumkum Chadha, is supporting him.. what can be said about the his mental condition and his ethic value. Person like Kumkum Chadha can sell his own mother for money, I am sure about it.

    [Reply]

  • vijai lugani

    baba ram dev is natvar lal , he has printed money by teacing yoga in commercial way now he wants to cheat the people by his oratery.his arguments on are so so nonesence and he wants to create choas in the country.

    [Reply]

  • Rahul

    “I had agreed with Digvijay Singh calling him a thug,”

    Why is ramdev a thug again ? Have you & HT come up with your own definition for this word ?

    If i compare the actions of Ramdev and the actions of members of the Congress party in 1984 where 3000 Sikhs were slaughtered in Delhi alone , i would posit that Ramdev is less deserving of your vitriol.

    [Reply]

    Navi Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 3:38 am

    I am surprised that in India journos are still paid by the ruling party to speak in their favor. Are they really journalist or some fake people siting at home and nothing to do have started writing for the sake of writing? What are her (author’s) credentials? Level of national Indian dailies (most of them) is rock bottom these days (except may be The Hindu). I also read other newspapers worldwide and to me Indian journalism look biased in favor of govt. This is really a serious issue and will lead to destruction of society.

    [Reply]

  • Deep

    Ramdev does more for this tormented nation in ten minutes than what the writer of this blog will ever be able to do.

    [Reply]

  • Ashwin

    Quite interesting to see how these pseudo journalists help the govt. in blunting the Anti corruption movement.
    This ‘Kumkum’ will be one of the first ones to complain about the problems in India, about the condition of our cities, the garbage on the streets, condition of the roads, the bribes we have to pay everywhere etc etc, but will not do anything about it, only crib and then just go to her Home and sleep.

    When someone takes up the initiative to spearhead the movement, instead of writing in support of such a movement, she prefers to criticize him/ her. At least Ramdev chose to raise his voice against Black Money, something that should be returned to the country. How many such agitations has the journalist taken part in?

    Ramdev fasted for eight days as his condition deteriorated. He was then taken to the hospital when he was critical. Wonder if this Kumkum could keep such a fast. Probably not, I bet she just prefers to crib and let someone else fight the battle against corruption.

    I am with Anna, Ramdev , Kiran Bedi and all others who raise their voice against corruption

    [Reply]

  • Rakesh

    SHAME ON YOU FAKE BLOGGER and FAKE JOURALIST!

    How much BRIBE did you take from corrupt congress/official?

    Now journalism is also not spared.

    [Reply]

    Dinesh N Patel Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:15 am

    Corrupted congress like you are the real terrorist to Indian public, who deprive gullible & uneducated population from the very same place you get your vote from, sick.

    [Reply]

    Anurag Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:26 am

    I dont care if he has any other political motive, atleast someone is taking a stand against corruption.
    Lady, you have no clue about politics and you call yourself a journalist. Digvijay is a jerk for sure and no denying that. Calculate the plethora of money involved in these scams and people taking a stand against it.

    Use the internet to find a new profession not for high school grade blogs.

    Thank me later.
    Anurag

    [Reply]

  • VG

    It is very easy to criticize someone. I did not know much about Baba Ram Dev until couple of years ago and I am not a big fan of him. But no matter what he has done, he has earned a big following worldwide. One of my best friend’s wife who suffered all her life with serious migraine (headache) problem got cured using some of his techniques (at least that is what she claims), I have no reason to distrust this man even anyone calls him a fraud.

    In my view people like writer of this article and DigVijay Singh are the biggest fraud. They are earning their living by ridiculing others. Can Dig Vijay claim any contribution to a common person except hiding behind a foreign born Sonia Gandhi or appeasing fanatic Muslims by calling world’s #1 terrorist Osama Bin Laden as “Osama Ji”.

    I never used to pay attention to politics in India but lately since I started paying attention, I am fully convinced that India is not in safe hands. We are sitting on a time bomb and people like Sonia, Dig Vijay and Sibbal are playing with people’s patience and emotions by diverting their attention and not addressing the real issue of deep rooted corruption in the Central Government. One day when people will revolt all these politicians will runaway in their own private jet to some foreign countries with all their stolen money.

    Both Ethics and Corruption start from the top. If it is so deep rooted in politics because of the party (that has been in power most of the time since 1947) was busy in promoting corrupt and corruption to stay in power.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:24 am

    Vg it is not criticism for the sake of criticism though I must admit that I am subjective as far as Ramdev is concerned and have always been suspect of his credentials. Having said that I must also add that his recent actions have proved me right.

    [Reply]

    Prem Aggarwal Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:35 am

    Baba Ram Dev’s actions are not wrong, but he has been black mailed. Being an honest and sincere person, he gave in writng that he would end his fast, if his all the demands were met. But Mr. sibal used that letter to defame him. instead he should have goine public that yes his demands were being accepted and should have got issued an ordinance to thatr effect. What to speak of Ordinance, Mr,. Sibal has not even gave anything in writing that Baba’s demaNDS ARE ACCEPTED. bABA IS IS NOT FIGHTING FOR HIM, BUT FOR THE cOUNTRY. hOW MANY SELFLESS , SINCERE AND Honest People can you find who are fighting for the Country. If I am right only a few. But not you.

    You will not understand the prevailing Corruption and the whole corrupt system in every sphere of life, because you have the Power of PEN to report against anyone.

    [Reply]

    Monty Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:45 am

    Looks like the Author is confused. She needs to write as her employer , TOI has asked her to publish an article. Writing without any adequate thought and insight into the subject she is wasting her time and those of the readers . People are not fools that what they saw few days back was a shame for our country . Our own PM should have been sittting on the sidelines of the satya grah with this person instead of watching from the sidelines. He is serving Gandhi’s legacy just like this author is serving the TOI offices . I really pitty the state of the Editors of TOI. Jai Hind.
    Any writing without putting brains or home work is a waste of time for the writer as well as the readers .

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:37 am

    Excellent ….speak up and say the right thing in plain words

    [Reply]

    Udayakumar Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:06 am

    Every Indian knows that the country has become the most corrupt and inefficient fiefdom run by thugs and their accomplices calling themselves politicians. We also know that the best possible solution is the Jan Lokpal bill. Nobody in their right senses would oppose people who struggle to introduce the bill – except these criminal politicians and their accomplices like you.
    Reminds us of Judas who betrayed his own teacher for 30 pieces of silver.

    [Reply]

    Manish Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:14 am

    His recent actions!!! I think he was not well prepared for the ugly politics! and that’s it. after all he is just a baba and not a politician. I just feel sorry for you boasting about your suspicion about baba. his actions proved YOU RIGHT! as if anyone cares!!! Oh my god! I was right! See I was right about him! Dekha Maine kaha tha na main sahi thi!!! Main hi sahi hu! Self obsession. thats what it is open your eyes.

    [Reply]

    SKS_Mumbai Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:46 am

    Wow

    HT has quite a line up of Honest, Unbiased & professional Journalists.

    Poor Vir Sanghvi might have erred once in a while, but rest of these seem to be “On the JOB” full time.

    John Varghese Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:14 am

    I feel Kumkum you asked Ramdev for money and he refused to apy. That why you have strong opposition for him

    [Reply]

    Shant Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:02 am

    Kumkum, it is unbeliable you are still arguing. It is simple you are the epitome of what is wrong with our country. You should be banned from journalism or any blogging until it is proven you did not take money or other favors from vested politicians. Probably even better if they put you behind bars for sometime until sanity dawns on you. Shame on you!!!

    [Reply]

    Joshi Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:04 am

    If his credentials are suspected , why has he not been investigated before . Why no one spoke about this before He has started his anti corrution campaign… No these Conressis are after him to defame him .. You also seem to be part of their game plan…

    [Reply]

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:36 am

    But can the Baba claim anything ….he has not invented anything. It is all in Vedic books……your friends wife could have achieved the same benefit if she had cared to read the books. He is simply a medium and made my the media……..now his time is over?

    [Reply]

    surendra Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:06 am

    The whole world understand the politics of CONGRESS except the JAICHANDS in INDIA.
    Only lunatics and perverted use this kind of phrasiology to saintly people.
    Seeing from comments most people feel outraged about the sponsored blogging
    True to 80:20 rule, how 20% mafia can hoodwink 80% of humanity, this is yet another good example!

    It was also very surpring the way Baba Ramdev’s press conf in Delhi was blanked out by print media when the world saw it live on TV on many channels.

    In very bad taste! Shame on you.

    [Reply]

    HARJAP SINGH AUJLA Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:47 am

    The Baba may have broken his fast, but the cause for which he is fighting is just. No one else dares to talk about bringing the ill-gotten wealth, which is parked in tax havens outside India, back to where it belongs in mother India. Let us not belittle his fight.

    Raja Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:25 am

    Anna Hazare would have done the same thing under the “pursuasion” of his disciples. Unfortunately, the government yielded too soon. In any event, the union should get a cue for the future.

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:58 pm

    Harjap, the issue is important but if wrong people or those with questionable credentials take it up, it loses credibility

  • Ashok

    Pathetic article by a paid congress agent, Ramdev fasted for 9 days to raise voice against rampant corruption mainly affecting Congress politicians, author of this article would not fast for two days, she is happy to earn her living by working as a paid agent of corrupt leaders of the ruling coalition.

    [Reply]

    Dharma Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 3:31 am

    What Kum kum has written is absolutely correct. Nakli baba Ramdev is not fake but a fraud. Why did he chose is fake name as Ramdev? He could have kept his original name. Has any asked how much money he makes by fake medicines? Who has tested all his fake medicines? Why does he need jet plane? How much time does he spend in looking after the sick and poor? How does one differentiate between him Maya, both wre very poor and suddenly became rich ?

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:24 am

    Ashok my response to you is ditto to what I have said to richi above.

    [Reply]

    Prem Aggarwal Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:21 am

    I am refuting your charge that Baba ram Dev instigated the People to take up arnms. He could have done that in Ram Leela gGround and instigated the people. But he advised the public in the RamLeela Ground to be calm. How can you say he is Anti-National? Is speaking against the state and against Corruption and Black Money a crime and Anti-National;. I think you are Anti-National in reporting wrongly. What is the way to protest? You tell me. The Govt. has gone so corerupt and there is no way to engage this Govt. to perform. It is working against the interests of the People of India. Even if the People of India haver to take up Arms against such a Corrupt Govt. it will not be wrong.
    In your view civil socierty people are also wrong. And when the Govt. Ministers went to the Airport, tghat was also wrong. Then these Ministers engaged Baba ram dev in negotians, it was also wrong. What was the hurry to ask the Police at Mid night to use Teargas shells, Lathi Charge and Raping incidents? Is there any justification? Why the belongings of the people like me were taken away by the Police and NMillions of Rs. were looted. Why their baggages were not returned. Did the Police facilitate to hand over the belonginbgs to the Public that was in Ram Leela Ground.

    Govt. Does not want to talk to the Unelected People Like ram Dev and Anna Hazare. The people of this Country have elected these Politicians to perform , but they have become Rulers and kings. They have no respect for the Representatives of the People. If you say thgey are not the Representatives of the People or Civil Society, then who came Fiorward toi negotiate the Gopvt.?

    If you say only elected Representatives have the right to negotiaste with the govt. then do you think in this age of Money Power, will you be able to win any Election? I think you will onkly forfeit your deposit. These Politicians are Looters. Have you seen any Congress Politician who is not well-off, who is Poor? All are well off and have their Children Doctors, engineerrs, in Big KJobs even in International Bank. They have their Running Businesses and are milliuonaires.

    This the reason, that if People of India protest, they will lose their Bread and Butter. They have looted this Country. I think you are the Mouth Piecer of congress. Kindly stiop indulging in Politics. Just feel the pinch of a Common Man and If Baba and Anna Hazare will noytt stand for the Peoplke of India, who has any guts? Be real , honest and Sincere to the demands of Public.

    BABA is Honest, sincere and so is anna Hazare. Do you think, Baba is a Millionaire? He has opened a Truyst and all money is audited and the report is submitted to Govt. He has already declared that if he has any Black Money, it should be declared as National Wealth. Whatelse you wanbt from him? Does this Govt. has the Courage to declare the Black Money stasghed Abroad as National wealth and can it perform to take action againbst Corrupt Politicians andd Govt. servants?
    ‘
    You go to any Govt. office to get a work donbe, go to Police Station or any Office, are you not black Mailed and forced to pay bribes.
    ‘
    all system is corrupt and you have to be with the peoplke in reporting. Don’t be a Mouth Piece of Congress. Have you seen the Education system? Education has become so Costly, that an ordinary citizen will not be able to impart education to his children. why can’t this Govt. Cleanse the system and Nationalzie erducation. Had you been in front of me, I would have slapped you for writing and reporting wrong things

    [Reply]

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:40 am

    Are you both RRS or BJP men / supporter then? Why bring politics in it. Think objectively if you can

    [Reply]

    Prem Aggarwal Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:45 am

    Did you feel ashamed from the comments you have writtren and you got responses? Kindly be fair in reporting and be favourable to people of India and be fair in reporting against Corruption. You have not felt the real life of people living below porty line. Understand the Problems faced by the POoor Citrizens of india. Don’t just be a Mouth Piece of Congress and its Govt. I have seen the writings inb this Paper from various Journalists of HT, all are Pro ConngressMen. Be fair to Poor People iof India, understand what the hell they are living and how will you cleanse this Corrupt system. Have you seen any Police Station registering any PoorMan’s complant? Then how can you speak in favour ofd Govt? Poor People of India are under so much stress that they could have revolted against this Govt. just Like Egypt, Syria, Bahrin, Libya, etc. It is the culture of indians that they are still keeping patiuence.

    I am an Indian but a USA Citizen , but I myself feel the pinch when I visit india. How could you not feel the pain of Indians. These Buggers Corrupt CongressMen and their Govt. have become Rulkers and Kings. Their most and formost durty is to listen to public, otherwise what for have they been elected?

    Time has come whenb they can not act on their own and they will have toi accept Public participation.

    [Reply]

    Observer Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:08 am

    Another hateful, ignorant and brainless person gets to write on HT. Nice trend. It’s raining idiots in India these days. what a waste of space this.

    ved Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:06 am

    This Kum is worse than ‘Fake ascetic ‘. She is a cheli of Thug of MP-Diggi. How hatefully she writes? I wonder how much she will be paid. A paid cortesan of worst type. Not even good-looking.

    [Reply]

    ahi Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:17 am

    Instead of just writing and supporting corruption….why don’t you go for fasting against corruption….why you are only mentioning Baba Ramdev…another sanayasi died of fasting to save ganga river….where is your digvijay now…

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:41 pm

    ahi, if you take care to read carefully you would know that at no point have I supported corruption. The problem with sponsored readership is, which includes some who have posted comments before you, that their lines are scripted and they are I think paid to abuse irrespective of the content of the blog. So however logical my response may be some readers would continue spewing venom like they have in the past and will do so in future as well

    raj Reply:
    July 14th, 2011 at 5:52 pm

    rightly mentioned by Ahi, what did digvijay said or the govt did when a sanyasi died after fasting for more than 100 days. As per digvijay’s and your theory he fasted for more than 20-25 days and was hence a real sanyasi. why were his demands not met, leave aside demands he was never mentioned in your print / electronic media. HE was not asking the post of PM, but only stopping illegal mining.
    It appears you and digvijay (congress as well) wanted ramdev to fast unto death but sadly he broke the fast and is still alive to annoy and trouble CONGRESS n U (congressis)

  • Dr. Baldev Mishra

    Baba Ramdev is truly Indian in every sense. We must learn science and technology from the West but not imitate the West culturally. Dr. Manmohan Singh is an exceptional person and the Baba must work with Dr. Singh to get rid of corruption etc. in India.

    [Reply]

  • aryan

    indeed the work of dirty congress !!
    they gone to the extreme in search of minority vote banks. before they used to court the mullahas and maulvis, but now they insult hindu icons. they call terrorists like Osama – osama ji and hindu icons as frauds !!
    little do they realise that this will boomrang on them…..
    Indira gandhi sponsered bhindrawala and she was taken out by one of his likes !! rajeev gandhi cultivated tamil tigres and he was blown to pieces with his *** lying naked for everyone to see !! now sonia gandhi is doing the same. It is only a matter of time before she gets the proper lessons…….

    [Reply]

  • Neil

    this is a false issue – real issue is the congress and morons like the writer of this article who need to be ousted from india or their lives should be made difficult as hell. These dogs bark at the wrong tree to divert the attention but they are dogs nothing more. I am sure the author is a congressi and have somehow benefited from corrupt congress or is benefiting from ‘aarakshan’ handouts.

    [Reply]

  • Ankur Bhatnagar

    Shame on Hindustantimes having such an article published. Not a single word mentioned on Corruption. Why people forget the main agenda which is corruption.

    By publishing such article, Hindustantimes is surely diclining its reputation. Please take this as early warning.

    [Reply]

    Yogesh (Delhi) Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:11 am

    Let us assume if Baba Ramdev is corrupt and had political ambitions for what he did at Ramlila ground. But who is not.. Can Mr Kapil Sibbal give in writing that all theblack money in tax havens does not belong to COngress party workers / Sonia Gandhi. It is known fact that Sonia Gandhi is perhaps the richest of all, sitting on the Nehru’s legacy of billions of dollars, which cannot be kept in India anyways.

    Someone had to do this to take this corrupt government to its knees with defunct PM and with loud mouthed miisters like Kapil Sibbal. If they were clean then why they negotiated with Baba on the first place then sending the police to capture him on the pretext that he wanted to use this lawn for Yoga Camp only, whereas his agenda for fasting was announced since past many weeks. I guess Baba may not be a seasoned politician or may not have a backing of a lawyer to prove his motives or roll his tongues like Mr. Sibbal, but many recent instances have proved that how this government has been keeping blind eye to many corrupt practices and depriving the honests of this nation by using the name ‘Gandhi’, which is an irony.

    [Reply]

    nimesh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:21 am

    This blog is only befitting of the school yard. HAHA look at this guy, he couldn’t even keep his fast and was probably even eating on the sly ??!!

    Never mind that Ramdev had legitimate concerns which the government didn’t answer and instead ’squashed’ him like a bug in an almost fascist action.
    Please also note, that the rulers have not challenged Ramdev about his own assets which they must’ve pored over by now and apparently found no wrong doing.
    If an indian has amassed 1100 crores without apparent fraud, that that is the person who should be allowed to ask questions about corruption!

    [Reply]

  • Amit

    writer is a fake blogger for sure.

    [Reply]

  • Suman

    Dear Editor,

    How much has been paid to your company to publish this blog? Shame on you HT. I am not going to open your website now onwards.

    [Reply]

  • C Maurya

    Agreed that the fast didn’t last as long to show his resolve…

    Agreed that he should have faced the police or better yet, get arrested instead of running. That would’ve been a better tactic from a strategic and political perspective, helping him garner more public support.

    Kumkum Chadha fails to realise that what Ramdev stood for is so much more important and needs to be applauded for bringing the corruption issue to the table like no other…

    [Reply]

    mk Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:17 am

    Dear Kumkum Chadha please show this blog to Rahul and Sonia or to Digvijay they will praise it, ask the favours u need from them. You have a lot of choices in Tihar Jail also u can go to Kanimojhi, Raja, Hasan and likes of him.
    HT please dont tarnish your image of a national newspaper by publishing shuch idiotic and senseless blogs

    [Reply]

  • Raj

    what counts is intention and he had right cause to protest, personally whether he had capability to last or long is irrelevant. I would not want Baba Ramdev to die for this cause as this is going to take lot of Baba Ramdev’s and Anna to fix this issue. Writers like you are good for nothing, I can be equally good critic of a person as all you need is words. By the way what have you done Kumkum to fight against corruption.. written an article on that as well?

    [Reply]

  • http://dasukrishnamoorty.com krishna

    Any fourth grade student could have written this composition. First, there was no occasion for the blog, second, it is simply a recap of what happened in the last few days. Agreed that Ramdev is not an ascetic. You only weaken your critique by quoting that loudmouth Digvijay Singh. It is waste of space.
    Kumkum, you haven’t made any new point. Verbiage.

    Krishna

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:27 am

    Krishna I think the objection is that I am agreeing with Digvijay. Well I can understand your disgust at that but my agreeing with Digvijay is only in what he has said about Ramdev and not Digvijay’s politics or the way he goes about propping Rahul Gandhi as PM. On that I disagree with him like I do with many policies of the Congress party.

    [Reply]

    John Varghese Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:48 am

    Dear Kum Kum
    What do you know about Digvijay Singh. I am from Madhya Pradesh. I remember that during time of Kargil war this Digvijay Singh used kargli Martyr’s money to dristibute salary for political resaons.The money which baba Ramdev is demanding is ournational money. This Congress government and party , why are thinking to make Rahul Prime minister. Is he only the icon in India .What experience he has? I am impressed with your writing style but plaese don’t write as a congress agent. i challenge you to do at least something good about .0001 percent of what Baba Ramdev has done? Also I am achristian and I have seen asecular person in Baba but sorry Congress is fake secularist

    [Reply]

    Manish Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:17 am

    Now I am feeling really sorry for you. Please stop replying to the posts it will only make you look like a complete idiot!! Have a nice day.

    [Reply]

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:18 am

    I think the article is accurate. Bottom line being, yogis are renunciants – so, on that basis Ramdev is not an ascetic, if he pretends to be one then he needs to be treated like a lying fraud. Secondly, he gave his word that he would fast unto death unless the government bows down to his demands, the government didn’t do what he said they should do – why is he alive and running his mouth? If he gave his word to fast unto death – he has to really fast unto death.

    Is it just me or that he never intended to die in the first place? People like Ramdev give Hinduism a bad name.

    Rishabh Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:32 am

    Dear Mrs Chadha,

    I am writing such a long comment because I am impressed that you have atleast cared to respond to the comments on your blog. I want to clarify that I am not a RSS man nor am anticongress.

    Like all other old faithful readers of your daily, I am shocked to see a national daily stooping to such sycophancy. You have made HT a congress propoganda machine. It seems that you are under the false impression that unlike the news channels you cater to an upper-upper middle class indian society which are still procongress. I hope the invectives hurled at the Congressi Chamcha brigade of HT and NDTV thanks to their senseless blogposts, have opened your mind. But again journalism is not about depicting the popular perception. It is about bringing out the reality. Unfortunately you are far from reality.

    Thanks

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:55 pm

    Rishab, if readers raise a logical point or argue constructively I would always reply because to me my readers are sacred. Yes often I find it difficult to respond to abuse or conclusions and allegations which have no basis. Therefore I have nothing to say to the latter part of your response.

    Venky Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:54 am

    Please give your congress membership card number please. Do you know he saved congress rule by breaking fast. If he would have died, can you imagine what would have happened. Thank Murari Bapu and Sri Sri Ravishankr who persuaded him to break fast.

    rss.polishboys Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:11 am

    why dont you deshbhakts speak of nigamanand and the uttarkhand bjp with this zeal? that swami died and the thuggish bjp did nothing, and you thugs are criminally silent on that. better give your rss khakhi size and payment slip.

    Rajeev Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:49 pm

    If you ask Raj about What goes on in churches, he will go silent?

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:13 pm

    I visit a Shiv temple on a weekly basis, but am a mentally stable person to realise the premise of the affair in question with logical assessment of a complex political spectrum that is India. Hinduism needs to grow up with the times, we aren’t like desert bandits who founded Islam or the merchants who found Judaism (or those who rebelled against the Jews due to circumcision requirements and went on to find Christianity).

    B/S like caste, politics (Hindu supremacy) and crazy baba leadership needs to go.

    Besides, if you want to know what goes on in churches, the catholic churches, just ask Richard Dawkins.

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:08 pm

    Congress is as great as the BJP who are as valuable as my tattered show that was recently changed, none of the political parties rule by merit or some form of public value. India needs a credible 3rd party by the likes of it’s IITs and IIMs… credible CEOs and notable entrepreneurs leading the nation – not retarded Digvijays or loudmouth babas and dhongis…

    My suggestion is simple, no Master’s degree (from an Ivy or Oxbridge or Indian IITs et al.) + 5 years of credible work experience at the minimum – no Ministerial portfolio or MP seat – simple – go by merit.

    richie Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 10:47 pm

    How do you rove if any body is dhongi? Based on some insane person’s utterances or based on proofs? The only proof on ground today is that under the nose of an “overly qualified” PM there has been a loot worth 2 Lakh crore. Degrees don’t earn you basic moral values but your upbringing does. Man do you seriously believe that writing essays should be a criteria to decide who can lead us? And I believe you are definitely talking about English language per se. What if one does not know english? Can you write a decent essay in hindi or in your mother tongue? Common give me a break. Science and faith are not adversaries. Science answers how but faith answers why? Faith keeps humanity motivated. Yes to day’s age is knowledge based but unfortunately the humanity today is most morally backward. To acquire knowledge do one need to shun his ancient moral wisdom? Well you are free to choose and say whatever you want and think is right. Let others have their right to choose too. Also FYI Ramdev is not a spiritual guru but a mass yoga teacher. If you have studied Plato or Aristotle and not our ancient scriptures than its not anybody’s fault. How can without properly studying you can disregard anything. I can also say that Plato aur Aristotle ka jamana gaya.

    Raj Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 7:24 pm

    Oh yeah, do you also buy into this propaganda that had him break his fast on camera? Being fed by 3 others who somehow ‘persuaded’ our crusader? Don’t make me laugh – now he is back in Delhi – claiming police rape. So next time, he will be persuaded to sell our country’s assets because others ‘persuaded’ him, eh?

    Goodness, I don’t know what you see in him. Coming from an orthodox background too, but I look at Baba/Amma/Ravi Shankar/whatever else there is, and know that they are frauds. They just peddle shallow philosophy. Ved Vyas ka samay gaya. Chanakya ka samay gaya… don’t look for value where there is none, this is the age of knowledge.

    If you want the essence of human thinking, read Plato, Aristotle, Schopenhauer (he knew more about our Upanishads than a good load of us currently do) – or reflect your thinking by picking up Dharmshastra or Manusmriti. Look and cherry-pick for modern relevance, avoid fakers like most of them.

    For a person who I doubt could even compose a well-written essay, how would you expect him to lead? Sure, Ramdev can still win me over – by getting a Harvard MPA, I am sure he has the money – how about the challenge? Get into harvard and earn an MPA degree..?

    I will surely notice this – or do we want to lead via the easier method (lying and mindless rhetoric). Not to mention that the foolish Ramdev managed to completely destroy Hazare’s campaign as well.

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:52 pm

    Thanks Raj just my point though my issue is not about giving Hinduism a name but about taking people for a ride

    Shant Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:14 am

    Even in countries such as Egypt or Bharian which have had seen dictators for decades, the press has stood up and led the crusade of the people. The so called ‘Free Press’ of a free India has duped its countrymen by falling wayside to what could have been a decisive movement against corruption. Few days back the headlines on the cover in TOINS were Abishek and Ashwaryia were very happy. INCREDIBLE. If the press does not come out to support the prevailing public sentiment of weeding out corruption in the highest places the country will keep mirred in these issues. It will go to hell, thanks all to the ‘Free Press’.

    [Reply]

    Preacher Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:42 am

    What are you? A fifth grade! It is annoying when people fail to see the objectivity

    [Reply]

    Shant Reply:
    June 30th, 2011 at 3:19 am

    Preacher you are a ******

    [Reply]

  • http://none varinder

    what a pathetic attempt to hurt Ramdev’s image . shame on you for witting and publishing this

    [Reply]

    Rahul Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 4:43 am

    The author just like the Congress policiians makes losts of straw-man arguments against Ramdev. Everyone, please check up the definition of “strawman arguments” to understand what it means. The following is the explaination of a “straw-man argument”:

    A straw man is a component of an argument and is an informal fallacy based on misrepresentation of an opponent’s position.[1] To “attack a straw man” is to create the illusion of having refuted a proposition by replacing it with a superficially similar yet unequivalent proposition (the “straw man”), and refuting it, without ever having actually refuted the original position

    So lets see some of the various strawmans in the arguments.
    1. “Ramdev is a ascetic”. — No Ramdev never claimed to be a ascetic. He is a Yoga teacher.
    2. A fundamental charecterstics of a true “ascetic” is that he should he should be able to starve himself for weeks. — This is another strawman. Many ascetic dont believe in fasting for such long periods and neither do they believe this is a litmus test for being declared true or false (unlike what houndog DiggVijjy would like the naive people to believe)
    3. “First the so called guru jumps off the stage in panic when cops descend on Ramlila ground and is among the first few to run instead of facing up to them;” — Yet another strawman. How does the author and his guru DiggyVijjy know that he jumped in “panic”. Maybe the Guru decide to save his life..thats all..why not ? Why give up a life cheaply..? . The police could have easilly finshed him off in the night and blamed it on someone else..If a Indian soldier retreats to fight another day…should he be declared a “bloody coward” ?
    4. I have yet another score to settle with Ramdev besides his dubious deals and the large amounts of wealth he has amassed: Yet another strawman. Running a buisness is not a crime..nor is it evil. Having large amount of wealth (Ramdev does not have it..his trust has it) does not necessary means its based on Fraud. You want to see Fraud….ask ..DiggiWiggi , Sibal and rest of the hundog gangsto declare there assets.. Atleast Ramdev has declared his assets…

    [Reply]

  • jogesh

    Very rightly said Miss Kumkum!. Problem in India is lack of progressive mentality. Education can help, but no guarantees there.. Present or future govt need to understand the emotional state of Indians at present while inflation all across sub-continent is sky rising. Poor are becoming poorer because they can’t stop breeding. Chinees put their country back on track by some really harsh law in relation to population growth. Until we are poor, orthodox, withered people, these Babas and Hazares will keep manipulating us emotionally. So who can we trust? What’s the best way to create anti-corruption environment in India?

    [Reply]

  • N. Sharma

    Prior to this I have never read any of Kumkum Chaddha’s blogs, and after this never intend to read any
    more. I agree with other comments that she looks like a paid agent of the highly corrupt Congress Govt. The fact that she agrees with the loose and uncontrolled motor mouth Digvijay Singh indicates that along with her mentor Digvijay she needs to get her head examined. It is quite clear that the
    Central Govt. wants to get Baba Ramdev out of their way since he has taken up a very important but
    inconvenient issue for the Govt. that threatens to expose all their black deeds, and they will go to any extent to eliminate Baba and any others that stand in their way. Kumkum does not identify with the
    corruption issue that not only demoralizes the entire country but causes economic hardships to many
    citizens. She is perhaps sitting comfortably in her A/C home/office with lots of black money in her possession,and so it is also inconvenient for her to look at the problems of a common man. Shame on you, Ms. Chaddha !

    [Reply]

  • madan

    KUMKUM CHADHA..u shud be ashamed of..so low level article..i m sure u r shit of a corrupt leader or some wealthy dog..and thats how u get a space in HT..shame on you…india ll never rise till shit like u are in media..

    [Reply]

  • Sheetal

    How low the standards of journalism have gone in India!!!
    I am no fan of this Baba..maybe he is fake
    .. But why your ministers were so keen on licking his feet ????
    Why you had to use force to disperse him and his followers ????

    Sure when Congress failed to make a fool out of him or make him agree they started beating him up out of frustration. As simple as that. why don’t you accept it ?

    You should be investinh your resources on helping the country against unbelievably corrupt political leadership and bureaucracy you seem to be issuing ceritficates of sadhus !!! HOw much money you got it to write this….? Shame on such journalism.

    [Reply]

  • Rahul

    The author just like the Congress policiians makes losts of silly straw-man arguments against Ramdev. Everyone, please check up the definition of “strawman arguments” to understand what it means. The following is the explaination of a “straw-man argument”:

    A straw man is a component of an argument and is an informal fallacy based on misrepresentation of an opponent’s position.[1] To “attack a straw man” is to create the illusion of having refuted a proposition by replacing it with a superficially similar yet unequivalent proposition (the “straw man”), and refuting it, without ever having actually refuted the original position

    So lets see some of the various strawmans in the arguments.
    1. “Ramdev is a ascetic”. — No Ramdev never claimed to be a ascetic. He is a Yoga teacher.
    2. A fundamental charecterstics of a true “ascetic” is that he should he should be able to starve himself for weeks. — This is another strawman. Many ascetic dont believe in fasting for such long periods and neither do they believe this is a litmus test for being declared true or false (unlike what houndog DiggVijjy would like the naive people to believe)
    3. “First the so called guru jumps off the stage in panic when cops descend on Ramlila ground and is among the first few to run instead of facing up to them;” — Yet another strawman. How does the author and his guru DiggyVijjy know that he jumped in “panic”. Maybe the Guru decide to save his life..thats all..why not ? Why give up a life cheaply..? The police could have easilly finshed him off in the night and blamed it on someone else..
    4. I have yet another score to settle with Ramdev besides his dubious deals and the large amounts of wealth he has amassed: Yet another strawman. Running a buisness is not a crime..nor is it evil. Having large amount of wealth (Ramdev does not have it..his trust has it) does not necessary means its based on Fraud. You want to see Fraud….ask your Guru..DiggiWiggi to declare his assets..

    [Reply]

  • http://None HT Fan

    I can’t imagine such pathetic piece of Journalism coming from Hindustan times. Just because you are a journalist does not give you a right to voice your opinion. Instead you being very condescending & arrogantly defending yourself to everyone who is not agreeing with you.
    Stupidity & arrogance is a deadly combination.

    “I am a professional journalist and my job is to write and not to fast or publicize what I stand for.”
    BTW, Journalism is about reporting events and stating facts & not tooting your own horn.

    [Reply]

    Ananth Desai Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 5:14 am

    These guys are fake because they use religion as a business. The way he escaped from the venue dressed as a woman and Nithyananda indicating that he is not a man is a mockery of Hinduism. These guys use the religion for their personal interests. I fully agree that he could not sustain a fast and created a drama. In fact his antics diluted the issue which was started by Anna Hazare. It gave congress a chance to prove the drama created by Ramdev, which we cannot deny. We should support Anna Hazare and his team to lead the war on corruption in our country.

    [Reply]

  • Aditya

    Weather Baba is a fraud or a terrorist, that’s should be a minor point in this debate. I support the cause he is pursuing. You mention precious little about the cause that baba is supporting but gloat at his physical limitations.And those somhow make him a fraud. If tomorrow you pursue the same cause againt BJP in Karnataka I will support you, even if in past you have been a paid agent of congress.

    [Reply]

  • MAK

    Ever since Ramdev picked up this issue of corruption in a naive manner I lost my confidence in him. Such changes need tact and diplomacy and not the way that Ramdev chose. Moreover, if he had choosen to go ahead with fasting then he should have stuck to his ground. Backing off only reassures the politicians that they can mock others who demand positive changes. By the way I strongly disagree that corruption should attract a death penalty (as per Ramdev). There are worst crimes in our country which should get death penalty before corruption. And how can somebody create a bunch of gundas to fight against our own police?

    Although I did not enjoy the harsh language of Kumkum, I still appreciate her point of view. I also applaud her way of coming out with rational responses to the emotionally filled charges against her by some of the readers of this blog.

    A question for everyone which may differentiate the two approaches adopted for the same cause: Why did Anna Hazare garner a positive response from political circles and public at large?

    [Reply]

  • http://harrypotterfan.me Saarthak

    Sorry Kumkum but this paper has obvious pro-Congress leanings…and your blog is just one among the many that leads to this conclusion. I wonder why Hindustan Times now has an anonymous Sunday columnist christened ‘Chanakya’ (big insult to the real legend) who mostly pens Congress propaganda. I mean…why do you need a columnist – that too your main Sunday columnist – to be anonymous..surely there is no threat to his life when he’s only writing pro-govt stuff? I cancelled my HT subscription a couple of months back but keep checking the website to see how much worse can this paper get…it never disappoints me.

    [Reply]

  • Sumit

    Trying to fast and failing an attempt shouldn’t earn someone a title of being phony. I believe raising our voice against any sort of corruption is a good move & encourages people who live with the hope of seeing some justice done this lifetime.

    I have lived overseas for nearly 10 + years and my years are no longer used to hearing any political debate but I must admit that I did hear a lot of good things about this Yogi.

    K C, while your article aims at uncovering the truth I must admit there is more negative impression portrayed in u r article than positive. Look at this world with your inner eyes and you’ll be getting a lot more positive

    Best Regards
    Sumit

    [Reply]

  • Guest

    Just as a mule is a cross-breed between a horse and a donkey, ‘indians/pakistanis/bangladeshis/sri lankans’ are cross-breeds between Aryan and Dravidian (austral-african, black, negrito).

    Now, with low IQ and hence poor planning, these half-blacks have become 3 billion. The massive population explosion is fueling ills like poverty, starvation, corruption, unemployment, pollution etc.

    No Lokpal can rid the sub-continent of corruption.

    Only proper family planning can ease these problems in the distant future.

    [Reply]

  • Prem Aggarwal

    Don;t utter even a siungle word against Baba Ram Dev. He feels the Pain of Poor People of India. He commands millions of Peioople who are his Voice.So is Anna Hazare.

    Speaking against People who are selfless works, will derfinitel liquidate you one day.

    [Reply]

  • Rajesh (USA)

    CONGRESS – START COUNTING DAYS FOR YOUR FALL. Congress Agents, please stop publishin such foolish news which shows immaturity that makes all world laugh.
    Baba Ramdevji has done great work for a cause and will continue his journey.
    All this foolish statements will only help Ramdevji for a good for his campaign. So what if he creating his new Party for 2014. We are all with him. True Indian. Jai Hind.

    [Reply]

  • Varun

    I guess HT should seriously introspect about the credibility of such articles on much publicised blog space.
    Off lately i can observe the growing criticism in the HT against the corruption campaign rather than highlighting the issues which the whole movement is facing. Criticising the front runners of the Anti Corruption crusade.
    Just because someone wasn’t able to sustain too long for fasting author of the blog space is highly biased, if she is judging a yoga guru’s ability to fast as only aspect of his personality ignoring the gigantic contribution he has made to common person’s life through yoga and ayurvedic medicine.

    She should rather question the credentials of the people who are trying to derail the campaign.

    [Reply]

  • Real Good Try

    Hi Kumkum, i appreciate your desperate efforts to find out faults with Baba. Would be glad if you can Answer some questions.

    a) How many days fast would have been enough for you to approve that Baba is genuine and not fake-one?? Should he have fasted till death if his demands were not met by the govt.

    b) If a marauding ploice comes to hurt you, is it wrong to save one self?? Or should one worry about disguising in Women’s attire?? Does jumping from stage and saving one life by any means makes Baba fake ??

    c) Even if he is fake by your standards– has he given up his right to protest against a gross corrupt government. By being a fake-yogi is he not entitled to protest on genuine issues?? Can you suggest anyone in India who meets your standard and is eligible to protest??

    d) Do you have any score to settle with scores of Politicians who have stashed billions of dollars abroad illegaly — do they fit the bill of being an Anti National ??

    e) Subhash Chandra Bose raised Indian National Army against Britishers was he Anti National ??

    [Reply]

    SKS_Mumbai Reply:
    July 1st, 2011 at 2:09 pm

    Excellent questions.

    But you know what they are not into answering right questions, they’ll only pick those which are abusive. This is how all the establishment journos behaves go and see twitter you will know what I am talking about.

    [Reply]

    SKS_Mumbai Reply:
    July 1st, 2011 at 2:20 pm

    Kumkum

    I think my questions didn’t come out too well. I will just give a link to what you wrote not many days ago

    Can you enlighten is as to how does:
    …………… …. “bending over backwards and rolling the red carpet for a man” turn into
    ……………………………… “far from even appearing to take note of” in about 15 days ????

    And how did sumone you had found to have become :
    …………:”a laughing stock and that also “what it deserved for behaving so stupidly”
    turns out to be having the “LAST LAUGH” 15 days later ?????????

    So shouldn’t you explain whether you were misleading us earlier or you are trying to do it now?

    If neither, then I can bet that the two pieces have been written by different people. Of course both of these assume that HT Journalists write when they are in their senses and that, at the very least, they do understand what they write.

    You fool no one lady.

    [Reply]

  • ahi

    For baba Ramdev we all know from where he gets his wealth.. he either sells Ayurveda medicines or from donation or paid yoga. It is not crime. Since ancient India Rishi Munis works in conjugation with kings. Atleast we all know from where he gets his money. But what about politician.. Exactly from where they gets there money. If we talk about DIgvijay…In Madhya Pradesh he was also know as Diggi Raja…”Raja” For what.. Please go and check the development of MP from year 2000 during his tenure.. What he did for MP..exactly nothing…MP has top of the class colleges, but no good professors and lecturers to teach student.. student don’t attend colleges because there is no body to teach them..

    [Reply]

    Parkash Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 6:38 am

    First of all what was the necessity of attacking baba and his followers in the mid of night?

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:46 pm

    Absolutely right Prakash. There is no justification of the way the government mishandled and messed up the situation.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:43 pm

    ahi agreeing with Digvijay on Baba Ramdev does not mean that one is his supporter. As I said many readers conclude what they wish to irrespective of the content of what I write.

    [Reply]

  • Sandeep

    I would like to primarily comment on the now frequently heard question, why did Baba Ramdev last only 5 days when other yogis of different yoga schools last even 30 days. I would like to draw everyone’s attention to the fact that when yogis normally fast, it is in calm and peaceful conditions. There is little or no activity, no mental stress, no threats and no running around to escape the police. Baba had all of these and no peaceful environment. Under such conditions, I am actually surprised that he lasted even 5 days.

    I do how ever believe that he has done tremendous service to yoga by demystifying it and taking it to the masses. How I wish he had stuck to that. We all should recognise what our strengths are and stick to it. Politics is clearly not his strength and has proved to be his waterloo. Clearly there has been a desire to rule, lead and make money. These ambitions don’t justify his status as an ascetic. Being able to fast for 5 days hardly contributes to this opinion.

    [Reply]

    reena Reply:
    July 1st, 2011 at 9:09 am

    yes, right on!

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:45 pm

    Sandeep, I think you have a point there when you say that yogis fast under peaceful conditions and Ramdev was actually battling odds hence it was tough. Makes sense.

    [Reply]

  • Ramesh

    Who is the writer ?
    No offense but who so ever he/she may be, is devoid of writing skills. Starting and ending with an ‘I’

    PS: My first comment was not published (or should I say it was gagged)

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:49 pm

    Ramesh, nothing is gagged. You are attaching too much importance to your views. And as for starting and ending with an “I” blogs are meant to be such. And about who is the writer please do a google search

    [Reply]

  • Shammi

    Another CON party’s chamchee …Like Miss B Dutt….How much you got paid …or maybe a flat after a few articles like this one .No wonder politician’s are getting away with murder(1984) cause of ppl like you….shame on you for calling yourself a prof. journo haaaak thoooo tere munh pe

    [Reply]

  • EMKAY, USA

    It is very easy to say him a Fake ascetic, without knowing entire background; Why there were 4 top central ministers at the airport to receive him, before he arrived? Were they deemed to be set of fools representing the UPA govt? They betrayed him, they played conspiracy against him after seeing the sea of masses, they used police force to defame him, and finally. they branded him fraud, which is absurd?! If people like Digji are there, this nation cann’t survive!

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:51 pm

    Emkay, your questions are valid and as I have said the Congress and the government has a lot of explaining to do. But none of that will change my opinion about Ramdev. To me he is fake

    [Reply]

  • Mahboob Saeedi

    Madam Chaddha,I am not writing against Baba Ramdev ji, i basically believe donation amount in every country is comparatively small and the donar needs a receipt of this amount for the rebate in income tax.The question is why the people, individual, organisations, parties get huge and unaccounted donations?It is obvious such donners want some favour by those individuals, parties , trusts,organisations like grabing of some property (OF OTHERS) favour in criminal cases, to reach the height of their ego,etc, for this all such individuals, parties, trusts,companies they try to reach at such heights so that by their reputations they get more and clients.Simlarly some players do not play for the country reputatin they play for their own so that they may get more and more advertisements and more money.Almost all the women become pregnent after marriage but they are not in the news media is giving wide coverage Why? Some spiritual leaders,are masters in religious teaching but they have a squad of marketing experts to get more hidden donners and donations

    [Reply]

  • Arun Arya

    I know congress more than Ramdev. It will harass and defame those who talks against its corruption and misrule, and this cheap article is part of it. People like kumkum is a tool for our corrupt system, and more dangerous than underworld mafia or terrorist.

    [Reply]

    NRI Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:32 am

    You have admitted that you do not know Ramdev well enough. Obviously, you are not qualified to make any judgement here.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 9:56 pm

    Thanks NRI

    [Reply]

  • http://www.hindustantimes.com rana

    The blog writter is just as stupid as his congessi dongs are.these kind of people who really like to lick boots of italian ***** and his followers.
    Thye cannot see India “corruption free country”.

    [Reply]

  • hafeez

    When was there any doubt ,that he was a fake or not

    [Reply]

  • Venky

    Guys don’t bother to post your comments to the blogger’s articles. Have you ever seen a blogger to reply to almost all the criticisms of her article implying that she is on defensive. In India most journalists are as corrupt as politicians. She does not know, Baba Ramdev has been made to realize by the likes of Murari Bapu, Sri Sri Ravishankar that it is not Gandhian days where rulers cared for individual liberty to live rather corrupt people who wish the good to die. Whenever I am depressed of our plight against our own rulers and media, I remember the Mahabharata words ” Dharmashetre Kurushetre” and keep waiting….

    [Reply]

    Jason NY Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:10 am

    So True !! 100% agree

    [Reply]

    Guest Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 12:09 pm

    Agree 110%! You nailed the BS from this self-proclaimed, modern day, Jurno. You and me can write more sense than the defensive-attacking writing style that this fella has adopted. Your following comment almost made me giggle :-) …

    “Have you ever seen a blogger to reply to almost all the criticisms of her article implying that she is on defensive.”

    Jurno’s are actually in a much better position to influence society in a positive way. Unfortunately, people like “kumkum chadha” just abuse this bigger responsibility that Jurno’s of modern times ought to carry. Sad!

    [Reply]

  • Vimal

    Blog is sponsored by Congress!!!!..We should encourage Baba intiative..His movement will definately help India to move in right direction.

    [Reply]

  • oldtimer

    Ramdev is a fake. He has no idea of how to get rid of corruption. Selling high price drugs to believers and amassing a fortune.

    [Reply]

  • Shishir Shivhare

    I appreciate a lot that Kumkum is coming back to discuss and reply to the comments.

    HT calls these blogs but mostly the authors write anything (a lot of time rubbish) and do not care to come back to reply to the comments.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:00 pm

    Thanks Shishir but I think that as we have a license to write, the readers views must be answered so I am doing no favour by replying. I owe it to all those who read me with an unbiased mind.

    [Reply]

  • R.K.Malhotra

    Call him Swami Dramadev!I only wish to know what happened to this claim made on the TV that his chelas had rediscovered the mythical herb–Sanjivini-in the Drongiri ranges of Hiamalayas?If the claim was genuine why the magical herb -a panacea for all maladies- is kept under wraps even about three years after making the claim? Right from the beginning of his ‘fast’ at the RamLila grounds he was taking lime water and honey and when the need arose he was administered Glucose .No ayurvedic potion could be a substitute for glucose.

    [Reply]

    HT Fan Reply:
    June 29th, 2011 at 8:09 am

    I just submitted my comments disagreeing with her & they removed it !!!

    Shame on you

    [Reply]

  • Som

    All of you have been side tracked. The issue is not Baba Ramdev. The issue if corrupt money hidden in foreign banks. Focus on this issue. Every ruling party has been able to avoid this issue. Be united and donot listen to paid kumkum chadha. Many young people are frustrated with unjust system of our country. Many have left and many more will leave because they cannot fight entrenched corruption at all levels. With the help of internet we can express our views and let these selfish individuals know that we have all have a voice.

    [Reply]

  • ishver sharma

    after going through the comments jotted down by my fellow citizens,I am of the view that majority of them are from the hate Digvijay or congress party forum. We forget that there are Digvijays in every political party.Yes Ramdev was fine until he was the yoga teacher.Even I followed his teachings but I am dead against his business empires.He even used to charge people who attended his yoga camps. A business man does not qualify as a leader of anti corruption campaign. And why blame the author who is expressing her views in a democratic and free press in India.

    [Reply]

    My Thoughts. Reply:
    July 7th, 2011 at 7:48 pm

    “A business man does not qualify as a leader of anti corruption campaign” — Who is qualified then ??? Corrupt Politician ?? or an Armchair critic like you??
    Even if he is fake ascetic or a business-man in guise of sadhu , does he not have right to protest — only Afzals and Kasabs have democratic-rights in this country — fake sadus dont have right to fight against corruption???

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:02 pm

    thanks ishver

    [Reply]

  • Yogesh (Delhi)

    Another thought: Who says that a Yoga guru can keep fast for more than 8 days. Yoga does not makes you a fasting expert, stupid!!

    [Reply]

  • NRI

    Even Kumkum has failed to nail this fake idiot. He had an island gifted to him by a couple in Scotland. That is a subversivel procedure when you deposit black money in someone’s Swiss account and get them to gift you some asset to escape taxation on both sides. And this imposter and yoga guru who despite his yogic powers could not live without five star food for more than 8 days, is trying to become a crusader against black money. The govt should agree with him,introduce death penalty for tax cheats, enquire into his assets and make an example by hanging him first. And Kumkum, please ignore the abusive language of BJP/RSS acolytes. That is all that they have been taught and it is not their fault. It is in their genes.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:03 pm

    You could not have put it better NRI.

    [Reply]

  • kps

    Telegraphically speaking -
    Raising a voice and generating awareness against corruption – Very good.
    Diverting the attention of the youth from drugs towards a healthy life – Very good.
    Fasting as a protest against corruption – Very good.
    But a saint showing impatience in his statements – Very bad.
    Giving a call to raise an armed rebellion within a state – Very bad.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:03 pm

    interesting KPS

    [Reply]

  • S B SINHA

    I am pained at the extra level of scrutiny focussed always on a crusader (agreed for author’s sake that a ‘fake’ one): what he wears, how he travels, why he jumped from a dais against police lathi, why he adopted a strategy to escape, why he not died at the spot, why he is a suiccessfull business man etal..but these microscopic lenses are not put with same intensity at the powerful offenders. Has HT and its slew of bloggers as well as likes of Digvijay Singh (I am full of hatred even tying his name) been so vigilent on likes of Raja, Arjun Singh and numerous others right from the making of a huge huge scam, India would have been a much cleaner state. Diggy never analysed Arjun Singh wealth and his ‘business’, about his long list of scandals, but he is always focussed on even minutest actions of Anna, Ramdev, Bhushans !! Agreed, Baba had some political motive in prolonging his fast in Delhi, but atleast he somehow he put focus on corruption which CON- gress has been nourishing over decades.

    [Reply]

  • http://------- Aam Aadmi

    I think this journalist has not written an objective article
    She doesnt have all the facts right,.
    It seem like, she is bribedor directed to write such an article
    HT journalists are known for destorting the facts .
    my observationis that the whole of the urban India & NRIs understand that
    The country is not in the hands of this power hungry foriegners & their underlings , After reading & known what these politians have broght shame to India in CWG & other scams & have looted & robed the country left & rigfht & Cheated the Aam Aadmi won the elections on false promises
    the country is up and boiling for reformd but
    congress is not ready to listen & do anything about that. would not let anyone protest ! it is like a dictatorship
    Then,one should not wonder if out of 1.2 billion people new Bhagat singh or Ramdev emerge & listen to the call of the Nation speak and stand against the suppression & evil,
    What they did to him his peaceful followers on the V hrs of the night oif the 4th is a shame , they have proven it is dynasty rule in India, there is no democracy !
    , majority of the people say It was nothing but A GUNDAGIRI of Sibal & Co, That action was not approved by Delhi CM & Delhi Mayor Who were actually responsible for law & order of Delhi at that time ,had rented the Ramlila Grounds for certain time against certain fee to Guru Ramdev .
    I hope This Kumkum as a journalist is aware of all that . Public is waiting for Supreme courts verdict on that.
    In Congress I dont see even one single polititian who has a national character like Ramdev & millions are behind him inspite of Congress Huge defaming Propaganda
    Sibal played a very bad & dirty politics . 4 ministers respected Ramdev Gave him a red carpet & they kicked hin without any official notice
    In actual terms India has no Prime minister is all remote controled fromJanpath 10 by an italian woman & by her Italian Son dreaming of becoming the Prime minister of This huge INDIA.
    I would not like to imagine what will happen to 1.2 billion people hhow thzey will react & what all will they do when Congress will try to enforce Rahul as PM through the back doors.
    It is a bad situation,Kumkum is just a litle Pawn of Congreess HT media politics,
    I

    [Reply]

  • Ritika

    Aunty, please stop writing. It hurts, mind and eyes both.

    [Reply]

  • Rakesh Katyal

    Kumkum all elites from Suhel Seth to you will go to any length to bring down a person who has come up on the atrength of common man. I don’t know what is your contribution to society but let us admit Baba Ramdev has revolutionaised good health and good eating habits. Leave aside his weak points his contribution to Indian society will be worth remembering. Ask people in villages and small towns. Perhaps people like you sitting in airconditioned Delhi offices never get to meet a large cross section of India. That is why the result is such a poor article.

    [Reply]

  • Praveen Saxena

    To a commoner like me Baba Ramdev comes across as a person whose intentions are unquestionable and beyond doubt. To me he comes across as an ” Alhad Kissan Yogi ” fired by idealism which in present day times may be considered out of place , naive and gullible. It is true he does not have a team of shrewd and erudite people like Anna Hazare has, and that is why he could handle the vile tactics of the scoundrels of the Congress Party.
    The Congress party scoundrels have levelled many allegations against him , but why did three Cabinet Ministers go to the Airport to receive such a person and then held nogotiations with him for so many days. Did they come to know about his wrong doings only later.
    And why has the government with its vast adminstrative machinery has not been able to disclose concrete findings on his wrong doings . We would not be surprised if another “Shoot and scoot” story like “St Kitts” and “Fairfax” do come up in the end.
    The fact is neither do we trust this government nor the party which runs it.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:05 pm

    Praveen I have said that the Government has a lot of explaining to do.

    [Reply]

  • Guest

    Tip for you (kumkum chadha): If you really think you are made of something, then I would like you to target the main agenda and that is “corruption” and not individuals, even if they are flawed, (On 2nd thought) Especially if they flawed. You will serve the society (and India) better that way!

    ps: You sharing opinions is not “news reporting” but influencing. You have tried to create an influence with flawed thinking or any ground work. You seem to be driven by your pre-notions and personal likings and dis-likings. You are a journalist and not a general public, who can freely blabber their opinions without much thought. You have a bigger responsibility. Don’t misuse it, but rather embrace it and think how you can server your people better! That should be your moral conduct.

    [Reply]

  • http://www.crapnocrap.com crapnocrap

    If Baba is so concerned abt corruption, he can start from himself and set an example. He claims he has crores of followers. He can first ask his followers to not give and not take bribes. As simple as such. When changes come from bottom, it will uproot the top easily. He claims he has support of so many people and in fact he claims whole nation, then he can ask them to not give and not take. Why a Baba should have 1000 crores properties of listed companies. And after all of this, If he is so genuine and wants to fight corruption, talk against all corruptionist. Eddy, Karuna, Jaya, Reddy bros, Advani, etc. Dont target only cong.

    [Reply]

    kumkum chadha Reply:
    July 10th, 2011 at 10:16 pm

    crapnocrap agreed

    [Reply]

  • RAMESH AGARWAL

    I AM NOT SURPRISED TO READ THIS BLOG WRITTEN BY KUMKUM CHADDA OF HT WHO ARE AGENTS OF CONGRESS AND SEEMS PRESSURISED TO DO SO.IS IT NOT SURPRISING THAAT 4 SNR CABINET MINISTERS WERE SENT TO AIRPORT TO MEET RAMDEVJI AND TWO DAYS THEY WERE DISCUSSING BUT WHEN RAMDEV REFUSED TO SUCCUM TO PRESSURE OF GOVT.10JANPATH ORDERED POLICE CRACKDOWN WHICH WAS SHOWN BY WHOLE MEDIA AND CONDEMNED BY ALL EXCEPT SOME MEDIA LIKE HT/TOI PAID BY GOVT FOR THAT.IF RAMDEVJI IS A THUG WHAT ABOUT KUMKUM CHADDA SHE IS EXPERT IN TELLING LIES AND CONFUSING PUBLIC.SHE COULD NOT SEE POPULARITY OF RAMDEVJI AND HIS EFFORTS INPROPOGATING YOG/AYURVEDA IN EVERY NOOK AND CORNER OF INDIA AND ABROAD.MILLIONS ARE BENEFITTED BY HIM PEOPLE SIT DOWN IN FRONT OF AASTHA CHANNEL AT 5AM TO JOIN IN YOG.HE HAS NO BALANCE IN BANK OF HIS OWN BUT RUN ALL COMPANIES UNDER COMPANY ACT BEFORE STARTING HIS FAST HE TRAVELLED MILLIONS OF KM IN LAST 9 MONTHS TO TELL PEOPLE ABOUT CORRUPTION AND BLACK MONEY SO HE WAS VERY TIRED.CHADDA HAS FORGOTTEN CORRUPTION AND BLACK MONEY AND FOCUSSING ON FINDING FAULTS OF RAMDEVJI.HE HAS WAGED A WAR AGAINST MNCS SO THEY ARE ANNOYED AND MIGHT HAVE INFLUENCED MEDIA TO DEFAME HIM.AT LEAST DUE TO HIM THERE IS A TALK ABOUT CORRUPTION AND BLACK MONEY.PEOPLE ARE RAGED AND ENLIGHTEN.NOW UPA HAS ASK HER INSTITUTIONS LIKE ED,CBI,IT TO FIND FAULTS WITH HIS COMPANIES INSTEAD OF CHASING CORRUPT AND CRIMINALS LIKE MAYAWATI,MULAYAM,LALOO AND UNDERWORLD IN MUMBAI.IT IS MISUSE OF POWER.COUNTRY IS RUN BY ITALIA MOTHER/SON WHO HAVE NO LOVE FOR INDIAN CIVILISATION/CULTURE/RELIGION/SAINT BUT WANT TO RUIN THIS NATION AND TO SEE RAHUL AS NEXT PM WHICH WILL BE DISASTER.DIGVIJAYA SINGH IS AGENT OF TERRORIST AND MAY BE ON PAY ROLL OF MNCS AND ISAMIC GOVTS TO DO AGAINST NATIONALISM AND SUPPRESS THEIR VOICES.CHOR CHOR MAUSERE BHAI WHICH IS TRUE WITH KUMKUM AND DIGVIJAYA SINGH.

    [Reply]

  • Abhi

    Before attacking the Baba for his (supposed) imperfection as a perfect yogi, the commentator should ask herself whether she is “perfect” enough as a journalist. Is she sufficiently unbiased to attack other people for whatever reason. If she looks at herself, she may be surprised at what the person in the mirror says about her.

    [Reply]

  • Madhurendra

    What you want Ms Kum? If could not be murdered by Congress fake police at Ramlila Maidan, he should have died by fast unto death? Good appeasing article for Sibbal, Sonia and Singh(Digvijay) You have got 163 comments till now, keep it up your fantasy will bring more laurels!!!????

    [Reply]

  • abhi

    Before attacking the Baba for his (supposed) imperfection as a perfect yogi, the commentator should ask herself whether she is “perfect” enough as a journalist. Is she sufficiently unbiased to attack other people for whatever reason. If she looks at herself, she may be surprised at what the person in the mirror says about her.
    And let us not forget the contribution of Baba in stopping corruption in India ,due to whose efforts the SC has already ordered an enquiry.
    And let us not forget that people like, MMS, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Digvijay Singh, etc. are part of the machinery in India today which has made India, perhaps the single, most corrupt country in the world, pushing the corruption lavels to stratospheric levels.
    But, you madam, being the most faithful servant of the QUEEN, would not understand the anguish of India.

    [Reply]

  • Anonymous

    Very well analyzed article. But I fail to understand (and blame it to my non-financial background) how would they use the financial system to their benefit if the companies from two nations involved in trade only deal in cash or other foreign securities.

    I also like to see the analysis how India can safe guard its interests in this game.

    [Reply]

    geekay Reply:
    November 4th, 2011 at 11:28 am

    Indian goods are cheap. Even if they do not to import directly, they have indian goods via gulf and Singapore. Dealing directly with India makes these Indian imports much cheaper. The trade currently 2.6 Billion between India and Pakistan is in India ’s favour .Pakistan has 14% of that and rest belongs to India. So, that ’s why, if they decide on importing directly, they can reduce more of their import bill. For India, there is nothing to be worried about. After all, India needs to grow as well and more trade and dependency between two nations means Pakistani Hawks will be on their back feet and less terrorism for India. War and tensions do not help the growth and objective to lift people above poverty line. So, whatever you can trade, it is good even if it is Pakistan or China as same arguments applies to China.

    [Reply]