Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, Mount Abu, Rajasthan India

Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University (BKWSU) or Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya is a monastic, renunciate Millenarian new religious movement (NRM) of Indian origin. It teaches a form of meditation adherents called Raja Yoga, but which differs from the classical Raja Yoga described by Patanjali and involves spirit possession.

A neo-Hindu religious movement, the Brahma Kumaris pre-date the New Age movement but have developed characteristics that link them to its thinking. It advocates a lifestyle which includes a vegetarian diet, celibacy, and avoidance of alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Historically, the Brahma Kumaris have not been without controversy and a range of accusations against them have been made. The controversies have involved researchers, previous members, government agency reports and the press. The aim of the BKWSU is to rule the world follow a forthcoming apocalypse which only they will survive. The Brahma Kumaris view themselves as the world’s true rulers and that they will be reborn as leaders amongst 900,000 souls who will reincarnate during a Golden Age and enjoy 1,250 years of peace and plenty on earth. 

Brahma Kumaris’ Raja Yoga is now promoted behind the facade of new age, positive thinking, values based and coporate training courses. Many individuals experience benefit from these. Indeed, some individuals can look back at their time as a “student” of the BKWSU positively. However, whether right or wrong, at the core of BKWSU teachings and lifestyles are identical elements to recognised cult behaviour. Elements that are hidden from the general public and slowly introduced during the process of indoctrination.

The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University acknowledges the intrinsic goodness of all people. We teach a practical method of meditation that helps individuals understand their inner strengths and values. A worldwide family of individuals from all walks of life, we are committed to spiritual growth and personal transformation, believing them essential in creating a peaceful and just world. Acknowledging the challenges of rapid global change, we nurture the well-being of the entire human family by promoting spiritual understanding, leadership with integrity and elevated actions towards a better world.