The new docuseries, *Breath of Fire*, is inspired by Hayley Phelan’s Vanity Fair article, “The Second Coming of Guru Jagat.”It delves deeply into the roots of Kundalini yoga and scrutinizes the exploitative practices associated with its controversial leader, Guru Jagat, whose real name was Katie Griggs, a white woman.
This series showcases exclusive interviews with former staff, disciples, students, and family members, alongside footage highlighting two key figures in the wellness and spiritual industry. A notable interview features Nicole Norton, who previously assisted Guru Jagat. She provides a firsthand account of the systemic abuse pervasive within Guru Jagat’s community and sheds light on the struggles faced by those impacted by her leadership.
*Breath of Fire* is directed by Hayley Pappas and Smiley Stevens, uncovering the hidden truths surrounding the enigmatic lives of Guru Jagat and the late Yogi Bhajan. The docuseries made its debut on October 23, 2024.
Who is Nicole Norton, and what is her current status?
Originating from Green Bay, Wisconsin, Nicole Norton was the personal assistant to Katie Griggs, known as Guru Jagat, who established the RA MA Institute in Los Angeles. In her role, Norton encountered a side of Katie that contrasted sharply with the public’s perception.
To reveal Katie’s authentic character, Nicole anonymously published accounts of her inappropriate conduct and collected further evidence regarding her boss’s troubling behaviors. She stood out as one of the few insiders willing to challenge Guru Jagat publicly.
Nicole Norton became a part of the RA MA Institute for Applied Yogic Science and Technology in March 2018, starting as the Personal Assistant, then advancing to Director of Special Events and Studio Director before becoming a Yoga Instructor. After a brief tenure at the institute, she moved on to pursue other opportunities.
At present, Nicole Norton is in a relationship with Joshua Peguero, a reporter working for 8 News Now. The couple embraced their future together when Joshua proposed on May 12, 2024. Nicole enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and cherishes her time with her cats. From her beginnings in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Nicole’s journey has taken her to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she resides with Joshua and their beloved pets.
Key Details About *Breath of Fire* on HBO
The premiere of *Breath of Fire’s* first episode occurred today, October 23, 2024, airing at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO. Comprising four episodes, the docuseries will also be available for streaming on Max, with new episodes released weekly on Wednesdays until November 13, 2024.
The official synopsis of *Breath of Fire* states:
“YouTube astrologer Katie Griggs gained fame as the face of Kundalini yoga, reinventing herself as Guru Jagat and drawing in followers—including celebrities and paying devotees—with promises of prosperity, good health, and spiritual enlightenment. *Breath of Fire* presents an extensive exploration of the corruption ingrained within Kundalini yoga, depicting a misguided guru and master manipulator, while highlighting the complex intersection of the American dream, self-reinvention, and fervent ideology.”
Guru Jagat, known for her connection with celebrities through the Ra Ma Institute, tragically passed away from a pulmonary embolism after ankle surgery on August 1, at the age of 41. Her legacy is characterized by a loyal following, alongside staunch critics who have condemned her exploitative practices.
Discover the captivating narrative of Guru Jagat in HBO’s *Breath of Fire*.
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