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India's TV Gurus

Sunita Thackur examines the influence of India's TV gurus, such as Baba Ram Dev, whose shows attract millions of mostly educated middle class followers every day.

Having a guru, or spiritual teacher and guide has a long tradition in Hinduism.

But what used to be a personal relationship between guru and disciple has now become a multi-media business in India.

On Heart and Soul this week Sunita Thakur reports on the rise in popularity of India's TV gurus and the impact this is having on religious practise.

She speaks to yoga guru Baba Ramdev (pictured) whose TV shows attract hundreds of thousands of people.

With a combination of yoga, breathing technique and an emphasis on traditional Indian Aurvedic medicine he claims a range of illnesses can be cured.

And she hears why those who have been turning their backs on the faith of their parents are now rediscovering spirituality through television.

Photo: Baba Ramdev

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27 minutes

Last on

Mon 20 Feb 2012 00:32GMT

Broadcasts

  • Sat 18 Feb 2012 09:32GMT
  • Sat 18 Feb 2012 13:32GMT
  • Sun 19 Feb 2012 04:32GMT
  • Sun 19 Feb 2012 19:32GMT
  • Mon 20 Feb 2012 00:32GMT

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