In search of the inner path

His search for inner journey made him quit his band, The Rubettes and encouraged him to start a new one in India -- a spiritual journey as he thought his life was unfulfilled. Meet John Richardson a.k.a Jayadev from UK for whom India is second home.

Talking about his association with India, Jayadev, says, “In the UK, I had an Indian neighbour who gave me a copy of the Ramayana which actually started me on my spiritual journey. I was so touched and influenced by the epic that I quit alcohol and non-vegetarian food!”

In 1980, Jayadev became an alternative therapist devoting his life to helping others through music, hypnotherapy, past-life regression therapy and reflexology. As a world-renowned healer, musician, and accomplished spiritualist, Jayadev introduced Supersoul Yoga to the West in 2001 as he wanted to establish a potent process of self-healing relevant to the pressures and demands of the new millennium. “I have healed nearly 30,000 people till date with past-life therapy which is also mentioned in the Bhagavat Gita. It helps in removing negativity and encourages people to lead a positive life.”

“In 1983, I became a Krishna devotee because he is one God with whom I  relate to. I also did an opera on Bhagavat Gita the same year. I am so attached to Krishna and connect him to my life, my music and my therapy,” shares Jayadev.

Sharing his experiences in Delhi, Jayadev says it was a test for him to live here because of the traffic. “Although the people here are very religious and it is amazing to see how they deal with their lives, but it was also a complete cultural shock for me when I first came to India. I also felt bad seeing people suffer financially.”

Jayadev who was in Delhi to be part of a social cause of saving the holy cow, says the country has few issues. “The core problem is that this country is trying to ape the Western culture too much. That is the saddest part. They should not forget their roots and where they belong. India is tempted to rise as high as the US and it is dangerous for India. Because the people will lose their essence.”

Although not well versed with the national language, Hindi, he says, “I am trying to learn it and I know a bit of Sanksrit.” The therapist is in love with the Indian cuisine too. “I first tasted Indian food when I was just 16 years old and I think it is the best food in the whole world.”