Should this discussion really be here?

Sure.  Why not?  Years in a cult impinges on all areas of life, informs us about some, warns us of dangers, sets us up to spot parallels.  Where were we at, what were we believing when we got involved? etc.  You can't deal with Maharaji in a bubble.

I agree with your analysis, BTW.

Nigel  (who has been reading a few days to re-acquaint with ongoing issues and participants, but finally couldn't resist joining in.)