Solapur: A major fraud network has been exposed in Maharashtra’s Solapur after the arrest of self-proclaimed godman Manohar Bhosale. The accused, who presented himself as a “miracle spiritual guru” and an incarnation of Balumama, is facing serious allegations including financial fraud, organized cheating, and rape. Police investigations suggest that the entire network systematically exploited religious faith and superstition to manipulate victims financially and emotionally.
According to police officials, Manohar Bhosale allegedly cheated a financially distressed real estate businessman of nearly ₹2.5 lakh by promising relief through “black magic” and “Aghori rituals.” The case has triggered widespread concern in the region and raised fresh questions about exploitation in the name of spirituality.
Fraud Triggered Through a Video Call Trap
Investigators revealed that the scam began on April 21, when the victim was contacted by an unknown individual. The caller claimed that Manohar Bhosale possessed special occult powers capable of resolving financial crises through spiritual rituals.
The victim was then connected to Bhosale via a video call. During the interaction, the accused allegedly demanded around ₹2 lakh for an “Aghori puja” and an additional ₹50,000 as donation to a religious establishment. Immediately after the money was transferred, the call was abruptly disconnected, cutting off all communication.
Within hours, the victim realized he had been defrauded and approached the police to file a complaint.
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Fake Ashram Built on Claims of “Miracles”
Police reports indicate that Manohar Bhosale originally hails from a village in Solapur district. In his early life, he reportedly worked in ordinary jobs but later began projecting himself as a divine incarnation.
He subsequently established a fake ashram, which became the center of his alleged fraudulent activities. Through this setup, he reportedly attracted followers by promising solutions to problems through rituals, prayers, and so-called miracles.
Local complaints had previously led to the shutdown of his illegal ashram, but investigators believe he continued operations by expanding his network to other cities.
Long Criminal History and Previous Cases
Records show that Bhosale has a history of multiple serious criminal allegations. In 2021, he was accused of rape by a woman who alleged that he lured her with promises of a television industry job.
In addition, multiple complaints have been registered against him across different districts. These include allegations of financial fraud, where victims were allegedly deceived with promises of cures, jobs, and miraculous solutions in exchange for money.
Authorities say his pattern of operations remained consistent across cases, often targeting vulnerable individuals facing personal or financial distress.
Superstition-Based Organized Exploitation
Victims have alleged that the accused systematically exploited religious beliefs and superstitions to manipulate people psychologically. Individuals facing financial hardship were allegedly persuaded through claims of “tantra-mantra,” special rituals, and spiritual interventions.
Police suspect that the network may also involve additional associates who helped identify potential victims and facilitated communication, making the fraud operation more structured and widespread.
Financial Trail and Digital Evidence Under Scrutiny
The police have taken the accused into custody and initiated a detailed investigation into his bank accounts, mobile data, and digital transactions. Preliminary findings have already revealed suspicious financial activity, which is now under deeper examination.
Officials believe that more victims may come forward as the network is suspected to have been active for several years across multiple regions.
