Rajnandgaon, June 27:
What appeared to be a peaceful retreat near the sacred Pragya Giri hills in Dongargarh turned out to be a hub of deception and crime. Under the guise of yoga and spiritual healing, a self-styled godman was allegedly running a racket involving drugs, sex paraphernalia, and possibly an international narcotics network. The revelations have stunned both the public and police.
The accused, identified as 45-year-old Tarun Agrawal alias Sonu, dressed like a traditional ascetic—sporting matted hair, a long beard, a nose ring, and a calm demeanor. But behind the walls of his farmhouse, police found 1.993 kg of cannabis, sex toys, narcotic pills and syringes, and other suspicious materials.
Goa to Dongargarh: A Trail of Deception
Sources revealed that Tarun had previously operated in Goa, where he established connections with foreign tourists under the pretext of teaching yoga. Through retreat packages and meditation camps tailored for foreigners, he built a well-packaged but fraudulent empire. He replicated this model in Dongargarh, constructing an ashram near Pragya Giri, promoting it as a “heritage yoga center” offering meditation, spiritual awakening, and wellness programs.
However, police had long harbored suspicions about his activities. Acting on a tip-off, they raided the farmhouse, uncovering not only drugs and illicit items but also electronic recording equipment and boxes imported from abroad. These are now under investigation by the cybercrime unit.
A Web of Lies and International Links
During interrogation, Tarun claimed to be an “international yoga guru” who had traveled to over 100 countries and headed more than 10 NGOs. He also boasted of receiving foreign funding. Authorities are now thoroughly examining his NGOs, passport records, bank accounts, and social media connections. Initial findings suggest a far-reaching web of dubious operations.
Locals reported frequent late-night visits by outsiders to the farmhouse. Some youths were allegedly lured into so-called “peace camps,” where they were offered marijuana as part of a "meditation routine." There is suspicion that rave-style gatherings were in the early stages of planning at the site.
A Threat to Faith and Society
This case has deeply shocked the religious town of Dongargarh. What was marketed as a center of spiritual growth was allegedly functioning as a den of narcotics and vice. Police officials emphasized that the seized materials pose a serious threat not just because they are illegal, but because they undermine public morality and safety.
Tarun is now behind bars, but the investigation is far from over. Authorities are actively pursuing leads on his foreign networks, funding sources, and local collaborators. What initially seemed like a web series plot has turned out to be a disturbing and real story from the heart of Dongargarh. The case is ongoing, and more shocking revelations may still emerge.