(INDIA). (GODMEN). PREMANAND, B[asava]. Lure of Miracles.

Investigating Miracles

(INDIA). (GODMEN). PREMANAND, B[asava]. Lure of Miracles. [With two related works]. (Podayur, India: B. Premanand, 1982) 115, [1] pp. (182 x 120 mm.) Second Edition. Original pink printed wrappers. With black & white photographic illustrations. Light staining around spine (from binder's glue), lower wrapper with a couple creases, contents excellent.

A denunciation of the charismatic godman Sathya Sai Baba, calling for the scientific investigation of his alleged miracles.

Sathya Sai Baba (1926-2011) was an Indian spiritual teacher who blended Hindu traditions with an emphasis on values such as truth, peace, love, and nonviolence. Claiming to be the reincarnation of the saint Shirdi Sai Baba (1838-1918), he was widely known for reported miracles--such as clairvoyance and materializing objects--which devotees considered divine acts. Although he established a large spiritual and philanthropic movement that included free hospitals, schools, and clean drinking water projects, he also faced allegations of fraud, money laundering, and abuse.

The present work was written by one of Sathya Sai Baba's most vocal opponents, skeptic Basava Premanand (1930-2009), who promoted rational thinking and worked to expose claims of miraculous or supernatural powers. Not only does Premanand call into question the guru's alleged miracles and invite scientific inquiry in search for rational causes, he also points out the unseemly extravagance of Sathya Sai Baba's lifestyle, noting that he "travels only by air-conditioned imported cars, [and] stays only with the Ex-Mahajaras and Ex-Ranis, Princes and Princesses, Business Magnates, Politicians and people with influence."

This is an uncommon work, with just three copies of the first edition found on OCLC, and no copies of this second edition. Offered with this book are two additional items: a petition by Premanand titled "Satya Sai Baba and Gold Control Act" (1986), citing the guru's supposed materialization of gold objects as a violation of Indian law, as well as a printed letter and press release for the work, dated 1989. (C1136)