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A well-known Bengaluru yoga guru, Niranjana Murthy, has been arrested on grave charges of sexually assaulting a minor girl who was his student and participant at his yoga institute. The case, which has sent shockwaves through the local yoga community and beyond, highlights troubling abuse of power within trusted circles.
According to police reports, the complainant, a young woman now 19 years old, had known Murthy since 2019. She began taking yoga lessons and competing in events organized or overseen by him from 2021 onwards. Murthy, who also serves as the secretary of the Karnataka Yogasana Sports Association (KYSA), wielded significant influence in the state’s yoga sports arena.
The girl alleges that the first incident of sexual harassment took place during an international yoga competition in Thailand in 2023, when she was just 17 years old. The trauma caused her to quit competitions temporarily. However, in 2024 she resumed training at Murthy’s Sunshine Yoga Zone center in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, only to face repeated harassment.
In a formal complaint registered in August 2025, the victim described how Murthy exploited his position by promising her medals, placements, and valuable career opportunities if she acquiesced to his advances. On multiple occasions in August, including a particularly disturbing incident on August 22, Murthy allegedly used these false promises to coerce physical contact, further victimizing the minor.
Following her complaint lodged on August 30, Niranjana Murthy initially went into hiding. However, after a sustained efforts by the Rajarajeshwari Nagar police, he was tracked down and arrested. The police have registered cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and other relevant sections addressing sexual harassment and abuse.
Niranjana Murthy, who holds a PhD in Yoga and has captained the national yoga team multiple times, has also received accolades including a Life Achievement Award from the Karnataka government. The stark contrast between his public stature and the serious allegations has caused widespread shock and outrage.
Authorities have assured that the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone with similar experiences to come forward. Counseling and support are being provided to the victim to help in her recovery.
This case not only exposes individual transgressions but also raises awareness about the vulnerabilities faced by minors and young adults in sports and wellness environments. It underscores the urgent need for safeguarding mechanisms to ensure the safety, dignity, and trust of all students within such communities.
The Bengaluru police continue to investigate, promising strict adherence to the law and justice for the victim. Community leaders and activists stress the importance of vigilance and accountability in all spheres where power is entrusted, to prevent abuses and protect the innocent.
This serious incident is a reminder of the responsibilities that come with positions of influence and the vital need for justice and healing for survivors of abuse.
