06/05/2026
Official Statement From Devipuram
https://forum.amritananda.org/d/781-statement-from-devipuram-regarding-vikram-vanam
Devipuram is a sacred Śrī Vidyā temple and teaching institution founded by Śrī Amṛtānandanātha Sarasvatī (Guruji), who left his body in 2015. Our tradition is founded on the principles of love, respect, and the protection of all beings. It is in this spirit that we issue the following statement.
It has come to our attention that an individual named Vikram Vanam, who presents himself online under the names "Swaprakashanandaguruji Avadhuta" and "Guruji Avadhuta" and falsely associates himself with the Śrī Vidyā lineage of Devipuram, has been the subject of serious and repeated allegations of psychological manipulation, sexual coercion, harassment, and financial extortion — targeting multiple women over a prolonged period.
His social media presence includes:
Facebook: facebook.com/vikramvanam
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vikram-vanam-6524b78
YouTube: youtube.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/swaprakashanandaguruji/
We state clearly and without reservation:
Vikram Vanam is not part of Devipuram's paramparā. While he did at one time receive dīkṣā from Śrī Amṛtānandanātha Sarasvatī, he subsequently entered into a serious conflict with Guruji, during which he himself rescinded the mantras he had received and severed all connections with Devipuram. He has no authorization — and has had none for many years — to teach, initiate, or represent Devipuram or the lineage of Śrī Amṛtānandanātha Sarasvatī in any capacity. Any association he claims or implies with Devipuram, its Guruji, or the Śrī Vidyā tradition as transmitted through our institution is false.
The use of titles such as "Guruji" and "Avadhuta" by this individual is not sanctioned by our institution or by any recognized authority within our tradition. These titles carry significant spiritual weight and their appropriation to lend credibility to abusive conduct is a serious breach of dharma.
The behaviors described by those who have come forward — including psychological domination, sexual pressure, emotional abuse, and financial coercion — are completely contrary to the teachings and spirit of our tradition. A genuine teacher never seeks control over a student's body, mind, or finances. A genuine teacher never uses spiritual language or claimed supernatural powers to intimidate, isolate, or exploit. These are the methods of manipulation, not of dharma.
We extend our deepest compassion to all those who have suffered harm as a result of contact with this individual. We commend those who have come forward, filed reports with authorities, and spoken publicly. Your courage protects others.
We urge everyone — seekers, students, and the general public — to exercise the greatest caution before engaging with any person claiming spiritual authority online. Before giving any teacher your trust, your money, or your personal information, please verify their credentials through established institutions, consult with trusted members of a community, and take time to observe their conduct over an extended period. Authentic spiritual transmission does not happen through social media coercion.
We are aware that formal complaints have been filed with law enforcement in India and abroad. We support a thorough investigation and call on the relevant authorities to take these allegations seriously.
If you have had contact with Vikram Vanam and have been harmed, we encourage you to report your experience to the appropriate authorities in your country and to preserve any records or communications you may have.
Devipuram stands with those who have been harmed. We do not stand with those who misuse sacred teachings to exploit the vulnerable.
Devipuram Temple, Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh, India
