I just discovered this website and when I saw your post, I just had to reply! These folks, Deva and Lakshmi, were renting a townhome in the community where I live and advertised yoga classes. I used to practice yoga so I replied and was invited to come over. What I found was what I would definitely call a cult, although I didn't know it at the time! I went a few times and it gradually evolved from them helping me improve my health through yoga to attempted total control. After a while, they asked me to give up my husband!!!, my way of life, and told me I needed to eat particular foods, let my hair grow, etc.
I was upset and went home to think things over after one particularly trying afternoon at their place because Deva used to make me cry or feel bad a lot, and decided I didn't want to go any more. I called and spoke with Lakshmi and told her I couldn't do the things they were asking me to do and that I didn't like the way Deva treated her and she said I didn't deserve to be a disciple and hung up on me. Thank goodness I got away from them before it went any further. They moved away shortly thereafter. I would warn anyone who considers private yoga lessons in someones home to be very wary if they start acting the way these people did and stop going if you feel uncomfortable.
I was upset and went home to think things over after one particularly trying afternoon at their place because Deva used to make me cry or feel bad a lot, and decided I didn't want to go any more. I called and spoke with Lakshmi and told her I couldn't do the things they were asking me to do and that I didn't like the way Deva treated her and she said I didn't deserve to be a disciple and hung up on me. Thank goodness I got away from them before it went any further. They moved away shortly thereafter. I would warn anyone who considers private yoga lessons in someones home to be very wary if they start acting the way these people did and stop going if you feel uncomfortable.