The book "Autobiography of a Yogi" by Paramahamsa Yogananda, is
regarded as a "classic" in some spiritual circles, and is sometimes
cited as a reference in raw food circles, because it contains
descriptions of breatharians that *some* people believe have at
least some credibility.

One obvious criticism of the book is that it is an autobiography.
"Masters" or "enlightened souls" as Yogananda's followers claim him
to be, are supposed to be ego-less, and yet writing an autobiography
is seen by many as the conscious act of a very large ego.

The URL below takes one to an interesting article wherein an individual
claims to be the illegitimate son of Yogananda.  If the allegations in
the article are proven, it would damage the credibility of Yogananda
as a "master" who taught celibacy for his disciples. And that would
also raise serious questions about his book and its depiction of
breatharians.

I encourage interested folks to read the article below and form your
own opinions on the issue.

http://www.newtimesla.com/issues/2001-07-05/feature.html/page1.html

PS permission is granted to repost this on other lists or bulletin
boards where it might be appropriate.

Tom Billings