AI chatbots become new gurus as seekers look beyond traditional spiritual teachers

A grieving family in Chennai turned to artificial-intelligence chatbots after a high-profile guru offered a brief, karma-focused reply that they found unhelpful. The incident highlights a growing trend of people using AI for spiritual counsel, drawn by round-the-clock availability and the perception of impartiality. Prominent teachers such as Jaggi Vasudev (Sadhguru) and Deepak Chopra have introduced AI features in their apps, and startups like GitaGPT provide chatbot avatars of Lord Krishna that draw on the Bhagavad Gita.

Developers are also experimenting with holographic guru displays and platforms that combine live monks with AI prompts. Academics caution that AI lacks the contextual interpretation and challenging guidance that human gurus provide, and that reliance on algorithms may reinforce echo chambers. Yet proponents argue that digital tools fill a gap for those unable to access or afford traditional spiritual mentors.