India's 'Rasputin': The Controversial Yoga Teacher Linked to Indira Gandhi Dhirendra Brahmachari, a yoga instructor from Bihar, emerged as a significant yet controversial figure in Indian politics during the Emergency era. Known as the "Rasputin of India" for his alleged influence over political decisions, Brahmachari was closely tied to Indira Gandhi’s inner circle. His role extended beyond spiritual mentorship, as he became deeply involved in the political and administrative affairs of the time. The Emergency period in India, which lasted from June 1975 to March 1977, was marked by authoritarian rule under Article 352 of the Constitution. Brahmachari’s influence during this time was notable, as he reportedly shaped policies and decisions under Indira Gandhi’s leadership. Journalist Shekhar Gupta described him as the "official yogi of India in the Indira era," emphasizing his role in both spiritual and political spheres. His power reportedly persisted even after Sanjay Gandhi’s death, influencing Indira Gandhi’s post-Emergency governance. However, his influence waned during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure, leading to his marginalization. Born Dhirendra Sharma in 1925 in Bihar’s Madhubani district, Brahmachari left home at 13 and traveled to Varanasi to study yoga under Maharshi Kartikeya. He became a renowned Hatha yoga expert and was invited to the Soviet Union in the 1960s to train cosmonauts. His writings, including Yogic Sukshma Vyayama and Yogasana Vijnana, focused on advanced yogic practices. Brahmachari’s connection to Indira Gandhi was central to his prominence. He was one of the few granted private access to her, and his fortunes aligned with her political career. During her tenure, he supported Sanjay Gandhi’s controversial slum clearance and birth control initiatives.#doordarshan #indira_gandhi #dhirendra_brahmachari #sanjay_gandhi #maharshi_kartikeya
Urvashi Dholakia: Prioritizing Self-Respect Over External Validation Urvashi Dholakia shared her reflections on Instagram following her time on a reality show, emphasizing the importance of self-respect and personal growth. She highlighted how the experience reshaped her understanding of loyalty, trust, and relationships. “Always choose yourself first,” she wrote, adding that this principle is not about ego but about clarity, growth, and self-respect. She acknowledged the competitive nature of the show, noting that not every lesson comes from loyalty, not every smile guarantees security, and not every alliance is meant to last. Dholakia stressed that in a setting where trust can shift overnight, prioritizing oneself is a strategic choice. She questioned whether others would risk their own well-being by placing trust in someone unfamiliar, asking, “Would you still choose someone absolutely unknown over yourself?” Her message underscores the value of self-awareness and the importance of safeguarding one’s own interests. The actress also reflected on the fleeting nature of external validation, stating that when the noise of the show fades, the only constant is oneself. This sentiment aligns with her broader philosophy of personal growth, which she has consistently emphasized throughout her career. Dholakia’s journey in the entertainment industry began at age six with a commercial for Revathi. As a child, she appeared in the Doordarshan series Shrikant as Rajlaxmi, marking her early acting debut. Her adult TV roles included Dekh Bhai Dekh, Waqt Ki Raftar, Ghar Ek Mandir, Kabhii Sautan Kabhii Sahelii, Kasautii Zindagii Kay, and Kahiin To Hoga. In 2012, she participated in the sixth season of Bigg Boss, where she emerged as the winner.#urvashi_dholakia #chandrakanta #naagin_6 #bigg_boss #doordarshan
