As the US Department of Justice released over three million pages of Jeffrey Epstein files earlier this month, the name of spiritual author Deepak Chopra emerged prominently, appearing thousands of times in emails and documents. The wellness guru, known for his books on mindfulness and alternative medicine, issued a statement denying any wrongdoing but faced criticism for what many see as a masterclass in evasion.

With exchanges revealing post-conviction banter about 'cute girls,' the response has left observers questioning its sincerity. This comes amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein's high-profile network, including figures from science to entertainment.

The Epstein-Chopra Emails: Revelations from the Files

Details from the files, unsealed on 1 February 2026, show Chopra and Epstein corresponded from 2016 to 2019, years after Epstein's 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution. One particularly striking email from Chopra quipped, 'God is a construct. Cute girls are real,' in response to Epstein's request for a 'cute Israeli blonde.'

Further messages included invitations to Israel where Chopra urged Epstein to 'bring your girls,' and acceptance of Epstein's offer to send 'two girls' to one of Chopra's events. Chopra met Epstein at least 12 times, though he does not appear on flight logs to Epstein's private island. The documents highlight 4,104 mentions of 'Deepak,' suggesting deeper ties than previously acknowledged.

An Instagram reel that has garnered widespread attention has amplified these revelations, framing them against a backdrop of scandals involving other spiritual leaders convicted of abuse.

Chopra's Epstein Statement: A Response Under Fire

On 4 February, Chopra posted on X: 'I am deeply saddened by the suffering of the victims in this case, and I unequivocally condemn abuse and exploitation in all forms.' He continued, 'I want to be clear: I was never involved in, nor did I participate in, any criminal or exploitative conduct. Any contact I had was limited and unrelated to abusive activity.'

Critics, however, argue that this sidesteps the explicit and jovial nature of the communications, offering broad denials rather than addressing specifics. 'It's a classic non-apology apology,' one social media user remarked, echoing sentiments across platforms.

The statement pivots swiftly to expressions of regret for 'poor judgment in tone' and support for survivors, but lacks granular detail on the exchanges. As of 13 February 2026, Chopra has not issued further clarifications, leaving questions hanging.

Implications for Wellness Gurus and Epstein's Legacy

The controversy has cast a shadow over Chopra's empire, built on 95 bestselling books and global wellness retreats. It also highlights troubling patterns in spiritual circles, where blind faith has enabled predators like India's Asaram Bapu, sentenced to life for raping a minor, and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, jailed for multiple sexual assaults and murder. The viral Instagram reel draws direct parallels, warning of gurus who exploit power.

Fresh allegations have surfaced, with artist Sevda Rubens claiming Chopra behaved inappropriately towards her at a European event in the 2010s when she was 16. These claims remain unverified but add to the pressure. Publishers such as Penguin Random House, which distributes Chopra's works, have stayed silent on the matter.

As investigations into Epstein's network continue, the files serve as a reminder of how influence can obscure accountability. For Chopra, the path forward involves more than words—deeds will determine if trust can be rebuilt.

Originally published on IBTimes UK

Tags
Jeffrey Epstein, Controversy, Scandal