from bbc: One of India’s most revered spiritual leaders, Sri Satya Sai Baba, has died in hospital at the age of 84. Doctors say the guru, who is thought to have millions of followers around the world, died following a cardiac arrest. He had been admitted to hospital in his hometown of Puttaparthi last month, suffering from respiratory problems and kidney failure. He enjoyed support from all areas of Indian society – including Bollywood filmstars and senior politicians. His high-profile followers include former Indian Prime Minster Atal Behari Vajpayee and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. Many devotees considered him a living god, and credited him with mystical powers including the ability to conjure objects out of the air. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh described his death as an “irreparable loss… He was a spiritual leader who inspired millions to lead a moral and meaningful life even as they followed the religion of their choice,” said Mr Singh.