Mumbai Gym Trainer Turned Godman Arrested for Exploiting Devotees
Cigarettes, Alcohol, Late Night Darbars: How A Gym Trainer-Turned-Godman Duped Devotees In Mumbai
News 18
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Rhythm Panchal, a 30-year-old gym trainer in Mumbai, has been arrested for allegedly cheating and manipulating devotees under the guise of black magic and exorcism. Operating late-night rituals, he exploited the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking solutions to personal problems, demanding offerings like cigarettes and alcohol.
- 01Rhythm Panchal, known as 'Monty Baba', was a gym trainer before claiming to have divine powers.
- 02He conducted late-night rituals, demanding unusual offerings from devotees.
- 03Many of his followers were vulnerable individuals seeking help for personal issues.
- 04Panchal's operation relied heavily on fear and psychological manipulation.
- 05He was arrested after multiple complaints led to a police investigation.
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Rhythm Panchal, a 30-year-old gym trainer from Mumbai, has been arrested for allegedly deceiving and manipulating devotees while posing as a godman named 'Monty Baba'. He operated from Malad, conducting late-night 'darbars' where he claimed to solve personal issues through black magic and exorcism. Devotees were reportedly asked to bring offerings such as cigarettes, alcohol, and animal parts, which he described as essential for rituals. Many followers, including women facing fertility challenges, turned to him out of desperation. Over time, he instilled fear in his devotees, convincing them that only he could resolve their problems. The situation escalated as some devotees began to question his methods, leading to multiple complaints and a police investigation. Panchal was arrested and charged with cheating and exploitation under laws aimed at curbing superstition. This case highlights the ongoing issue of self-styled godmen in India, who continue to exploit vulnerable individuals despite the modern urban context.
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The case underscores the vulnerability of individuals seeking help and the potential for exploitation in urban settings like Mumbai.
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