I wasn't aware that Elan vital was saying those things.  I don't read Elan Vital's website ordinarily, but will definitely check it out.  As for the hate group part - from what I've read here, I can definitely feel different degrees of  hatred toward maharaji, his organization  & even toward premies at times.  I don't know exactly what they mean by "hate group", but it doesn't seem like they are too much off the mark with that comment.

Though I don't consider Elan Vital an embarrasment, I can't say that I trust them (them being whoever is in charge these days).  I ended my involvement with them when I was no longer allowed to help without undergoing the proper "training."  I have enough experience with corporate bullshit at work, and am not going to put up with it as a volunteer.

As for the ashrams, I can't agree with their comment that they were shelters from drugs.  My intent when moving into the ashram was to have a sheltered environment where I could concentrate on knowledge.  and for awhile it was just that.  But toward the end it became a financial nightmare - so many people were sick (mentally & physically) and they could not even work to help support the ashrams, much less maharaji's work.  To the best of my knowledge, arti was a devotional song I sang to Maharaji - whether others sang it to different masters I can't say. 

So I tried to answer the questions - that should get me some bonus points. I am pressed for time at the moment & can't really elaborate, but thanks for being civil.