Sadhguru's maiden trip to Bihar overshadowed by major statewide controversy over Isha crematorium
Sadhguru’s first visit to Bihar was completely eclipsed by public fury over Isha Foundation’s takeover of a Patna crematorium on a ₹1-per-year lease. The crematorium was built by the government at taxpayers’ expense for ₹89 crore. His satsang drew just over 5,000 people, but the reported ₹3,500 cremation charges triggered widespread outrage across the state and among Bihar natives worldwide.
Major regional media led with the “VIP crematorium” story rather than the spiritual programme. On X, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, leading Bihar journalists, influencers, and YouTubers slammed the privatization of last rites, while opposition leaders joined the attack, demanding answers from the government.
The visit was ruined. Instead of celebrating Bihar’s vibrant spiritual legacy, the entire narrative around Sadhguru’s visit was dominated by the crematorium controversy. What should have been a spiritual homecoming turned into a major PR disaster, leaving Sadhguru looking totally out of touch with Bihar’s ground realities.