Bengaluru: A 29 year old software engineer has alleged that a self proclaimed Ayurvedic healer and a local pharmacy duped him of ₹48 lakh with promises of curing his sexual health problems, ultimately causing kidney damage due to the consumption of the so called medicines.
How the Fraud Began
The techie, originally from Shivamogga and working in Bengaluru, had developed sexual health concerns after his marriage in March 2023. Dissatisfied with hospital treatment, he sought alternative remedies.
On May 3 2025, he noticed a roadside tent near KLE Law College claiming Ayurvedic cures for sexual issues. Inside, he met a self styled healer who called himself “Vijay Guruji” who assured him of a complete cure using “Rare Ayurvedic medicines.”
Costly Medicines and Cash Payments
The healer convinced him to purchase a substance named “Devaraj Booti” allegedly procured from Haridwar and available only at Vijayalakshmi Ayurvedic Shop in Yeshwanthpur. The price claimed was a staggering ₹1.6 lakh per gram, to be paid only in cash. The victim was also persuaded to buy a special oil called “Bhavana Booti Oil” priced at ₹76,000 per gram.
Over several months, he was repeatedly pressured to buy more “Medicine” including:
- 18 gm of Devaraj Booti (after taking a ₹20 lakh bank loan)
- 4 gm of “Devaraj Rasabooti” at ₹2.6 lakh per gram, paid using borrowed money from a friend
- Additional amounts arranged from his wife and parents
In total, he spent ₹48 lakh to continue the so called treatment, after being warned that his condition would become life threatening if he stopped taking the medicines.
Health Declines Instead of Recovery
Despite following the instructions, his condition did not improve. Subsequent medical tests revealed kidney damage, which doctors attributed to the consumption of the herbal substances. Realizing he had been cheated, he approached police.
Criminal Case Filed, Accused Absconding
A complaint was registered at Jnanabharathi Police Station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including cheating, criminal breach of trust and poisoning. Police confirmed that both the alleged healer, “Vijay Guruji” and the Ayurvedic shop owner are currently absconding and a manhunt has been launched.
Authorities have been instructed to remove unlicensed roadside Ayurvedic tents advertising quick cures for sexual problems. Officials have warned that such claims are medically dangerous and financially exploitative.
Public Advisory
Doctors caution that unverified Ayurvedic products without clinical testing can cause organ failure, particularly when consumed in large quantities. Experts encourage the public to seek treatment only from accredited medical practitioners.
