Spiritual leader Bhayyuji Maharaj commits suicide

In a shocking incident, eminent spiritual leader Bhayyuji Maharaj has committed suicide. He shot himself and was rushed to Indore's Bombay hospital where he was declared dead. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Indore H C Mishra has confirmed the development to media, reports PTI.

According to media reports, he retired from active public life in 2016. At that time, he was quoted as saying, "I have done whatever is possible for me. Now, I cannot do anything as I am not getting any support from the society. At this moment, I am announcing my retirement not out of frustration but because my conscience is telling me so". 

Bhayyuji Maharaj has a significant support base in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. He was accorded MoS status by Madhya Pradesh along with 4 others recently. However, he refused to accept the recognition.  Bhayyuji Maharaj whose original name was Udaysinh Deshmukh had several political leaders among his followers.

His ashram is situated in Indore city and top political leaders including Devendra Fadnavis, legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar among others are his disciples. He also played the role of a mediator when India Against Corruption (IAC) movement led by Anna Hazare was at its peak.  

With PTI inputs