A spiritual leader is precisely that - a leader - and not someone who merely repeats the beliefs and practices of other traditions. Paramahamsa Vishwananda teaches his own spiritual path, and his attire reflects that path authentically. Guruji consistently emphasizes that his Bhakti teachings do not focus on renunciation by physically giving things up, but rather on mentally transcending attachment. Outwardly abandoning possessions while inwardly craving them serves no spiritual purpose. It is entirely possible, and indeed encouraged, to have possessions without being controlled by them. Krishna refers to this state of true internal detachment in the Bhagavad Gita as tyaga, and Guruji exemplifies this teaching.

The divine Godhead, who supports all of creation at all times and in all places, and who is the source of all souls, usually remains aloof, guiding souls back to himself by a gradual evolution through the law of karma. The Supreme One, being personal and all-compassionate, does however manifest in creation as an incarnation to accelerate the return of souls to Him, displaying divine qualities to the extent possible in material creation. This is central to the Hindu tradition and many spiritual personalities have been given the title ‘Avatar’ by their followers in recognition of the divine qualities possessed and displayed by them. Recent and ancient history is replete with Hindu personalities who have been described as an ‘Avatar’. As Paramahamsa Vishwananda has displayed the same qualities to many of his followers, he too has been given this honorific title. 

As described in the answer above, Guruji does express divine qualities which includes not being subject to the same level of physical limitation as souls bound by karma. Many people have experienced extraordinary things in his presence but such experiences are personal and profound and are to promote faith and transformation. They are not ‘displays’ or ‘party tricks’ and Guruji never advertises his abilities. His only wish is that people grow in faith and devotion and realise their own unlimited selves. 

Bhakti Marga is the organisation started by Paramahamsa Vishwananda to spread his teachings which are closely aligned to the Vaishnava branch of Hinduism. People engage with Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s teachings and Bhakti Marga events freely and in the way that suits them, coming and going as they wish.  

Hinduism is different from other religions. It is a culture of exploration into the nature of the soul and one’s eternal connection to God. It’s a journey to realisation, about finding experiential truth rather than following a set of rules to obtain boons in an unknown afterlife. Therefore, for those in Europe who have absorbed the culture of the east over the past fifty plus years, and have an affinity for the goal of transcendence and for whom universal teachings of unconditionall love and devotion resonate, the Hindu tradition is a ‘tried and tested’ means. 

Statues, known as murtis, are sacred embodiments of the Divine that help devotees focus their devotion. In Hinduism, especially within Vaishnava traditions, these murtis do not merely symbolize or represent the deity—they literally embody the living presence and energy of God. During a consecration ceremony known as prana pratishta, the Divine presence is invoked into the statue, making it alive with the deity’s energy from that moment forward. Similar practices exist in other religious traditions, where objects or substances, such as bread and wine, are divinized during ceremonial rituals. Devotees form a personal relationship with the embodied deity (murti) and regularly serve and worship it in temples. Since our five senses naturally pull our attention outward, murtis provide a tangible and sacred way to direct our senses toward connecting deeply with the Divine.

Absolutely not. Women participate fully in all Bhakti Marga activities and rituals, and we uphold equality and honor everyone’s contributions equally. Bhakti Marga initiates women as Swaminis and Brahmacharinis, and women occupy significant roles as community leaders, managers, and directors at every level of the mission. Men and women alike have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities within Bhakti Marga.

We encourage relationships based on love, respect, and responsibility, aligning personal lives with spiritual principles. While some devotees choose a life of celibacy (Brahmacharya) to fully dedicate themselves to spiritual pursuits, the vast majority live typical householder lives. As devotees, individuals commit themselves to maintaining a spiritual focus in all aspects of life, including sexuality, by practicing moderation, fidelity, respect for others, and mindfulness regarding sexual behavior. These principles support spiritual growth and harmony within relationships. However, one can also choose to be a follower of Paramahamsa Vishwananda or Bhakti Marga without formally taking devotee initiation or making these specific commitments.

We engage in environmental projects, such as tree planting and promoting sustainable practices within our communities. 

Yes, questions and doubts can be expressed openly while exploring the Bhakti Marga path. Prior to initiation, individuals are encouraged to ask questions to gain clarity about the teachings and practices. After initiation, the traditional Hindu understanding of the guru-disciple relationship emphasizes faith and trust in the spiritual guidance of one's Guru. Within this relationship, disciples generally approach their Guru respectfully and with humility, focusing questions primarily on personal spiritual growth rather than openly challenging the Guru’s authority or methods. While Guruji himself does not typically engage in prolonged dialogues about personal doubts or critiques, Bhakti Marga provides other avenues - such as appointed Swamis, Swaminis -through whom followers can safely discuss doubts or concerns they may have.

Bhakti Marga’s donations are managed by a registered not-for-profit entity that undergoes regular and independent audits by the German authorities to ensure compliance and accountability. Donors may request tax-deductible receipts and can review independently audited financial reports. We remain committed to openness regarding how donations are allocated, ensuring they serve their stated spiritual and charitable purposes.

No. We embrace universal values of love and respect, welcoming everyone regardless of gender or orientation.

Yes, absolutely. Anyone is free to leave Bhakti Marga at any time. While we encourage commitment to a spiritual path for deeper personal growth, we recognize and respect that Bhakti Marga may not be everyone’s path. Individuals who choose to leave do so without judgment or negative consequence. Our focus remains on each person’s spiritual well-being and their freedom to choose the path that best supports their journey.

Many experience reduced stress and increased well-being through our practices, aligning with a significant body of independent scientific research that confirms the benefits of yoga, meditation, and mantra chanting. Numerous studies have demonstrated measurable improvements in mental, emotional, and physical health through these spiritual practices. Nevertheless, as the saying goes, "the proof of the pudding is in the eating," and the most meaningful evidence comes through personal experience. We therefore encourage everyone to try these practices firsthand and decide their effectiveness for themselves.

Bowing is a traditional gesture of respect, symbolizing reverence for his role as a spiritual guide. It is absolutely normal in Hindu culture and in eastern countries generally, where children often bow to elders not just spiritual personalities. 

To have a Guru requires a certain degree of surrender—an openness to listen and a willingness to put the teachings into practice. However, this decision to surrender is, like any other decision, a personal, free, and self-responsible choice. Surrender must not be confused with giving up one’s autonomy or self-responsible decision-making. Instead, it arises from an inner conviction that typically grows over many years of treading this path.

Bhakti Marga is funded through a healthy mix of voluntary donations and commercial activities. In addition to generous contributions from our community, we generate revenue from courses, retreats, pilgrimages, and a dedicated shop offering spiritual products and services. This blended financial approach supports our mission and sustains our community activities, while ensuring the organization remains a not-for-profit entity dedicated to spiritual growth and service.

No formal initiation is required. Everyone is welcome to participate in our activities at their own pace, without obligations. For those who wish to deepen their spiritual path, it is possible to take a “devotee course” and request initiation.

No. We are a spiritual organization with no political ties. Our focus is on personal spiritual growth and universal values.

The allegations are old, fictitious and unfounded. Paramahamsa Vishwananda has never abused a person, and such behaviour has never been investigated by any authority. The public prosecutor's office in Germany came to the Immediate and clear conclusion that such allegations are false and unfounded. We have therefore obtained a large number of injunctions against media companies and individuals prohibiting the making and dissemination of such false allegations. We will continue to protect Paramahamsa Vishwananda’s personal rights by taking action against  false and therefore inadmissible reporting.