An interfaith community known for its controversial leader and allegations of cult-like practices.
Founded in 1976 by Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati, born Joyce Green, Kashi Ashram has been a center of spiritual exploration and controversy for over four decades. Located on an 80-acre property along the St. Sebastian River in Sebastian, Florida, this unique community has attracted followers from diverse backgrounds while also facing significant criticism and allegations of abuse.
Ma Jaya’s spiritual journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where she experienced a profound awakening in her thirties. This transformative event led her to become a disciple of the Hindu guru Neem Karoli Baba and eventually establish Kashi Ashram. The name “Kashi” is derived from the ancient name for Varanasi, a holy city in India revered in Hinduism.
The ashram’s teachings reflect Ma Jaya’s eclectic approach to spirituality, blending elements from various religious traditions including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and Christianity. This syncretic philosophy emphasizes compassion, kindness, and selfless service, attracting a diverse following and establishing Kashi as a unique spiritual community.
Central to life at Kashi Ashram is the practice of seva, or selfless service. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in various service activities both within the ashram and in the wider community. These efforts include work with people living with HIV/AIDS, feeding the homeless, and environmental conservation projects.
The ashram’s daily spiritual practices are equally diverse, incorporating meditation, chanting, yoga, and ritual ceremonies drawn from various traditions. Ma Jaya also developed unique spiritual practices such as “fire pujas” and “river puja,” which blend elements from different religious backgrounds.
Over the years, Kashi Ashram expanded its reach, establishing satellite centers in other parts of the United States, including New York and California. The community also operates several affiliated organizations, such as River Fund, a non-profit focused on humanitarian work, and Kashi School of Yoga, which offers yoga teacher training programs. Additionally, Kashi Publishing produces books and audio recordings of Ma Jaya’s teachings.
The ashram’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation has been a notable aspect of its mission. Kashi has hosted representatives from various religious traditions and participated in numerous interfaith events and initiatives, promoting understanding and harmony among different belief systems.
However, alongside its spiritual and humanitarian endeavors, Kashi Ashram has faced significant controversy and criticism. Former members and critics have leveled serious allegations against Ma Jaya and the ashram’s leadership, including claims of emotional and physical abuse, substance abuse, and the promotion of cult-like behaviors.
One of the most troubling accusations involves Ma Jaya arranging the marriage of her then-14-year-old daughter to a 25-year-old man, among other forced marriages between devotees. Critics, including former members and spiritual leaders such as Ram Dass, have described Kashi Ashram as displaying characteristics typical of a cult.
Other allegations have also emerged from former residents, including claims of physical violence and extortion. Court records and interviews reveal accusations of Ma Jaya either personally striking residents or ordering them to be beaten, demanding money from followers, and engaging in other forms of psychological and physical abuse.
Particularly disturbing are claims of child abuse and the manipulation of family dynamics within the community. Some ex-members report incidents of children being taken from their biological parents and raised as Ma Jaya’s own, sometimes even having their birth certificates altered to reflect this change. Allegations of physical punishment and other forms of coercion used against both children and adults have also surfaced.
Despite these serious accusations, Ma Jaya and the ashram have consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that Kashi is a place of love and spiritual growth. The community continues to function as a spiritual retreat and center, promoting its mission of compassion and service.
Following Ma Jaya’s passing in 2012, the leadership of the ashram transitioned to a group of her long-time students. While the community continues to operate, maintaining its focus on spiritual practice, service, and interfaith understanding, the loss of its charismatic founder has inevitably led to changes in the community’s dynamics and direction.
via prnewswire
