One man's quest to drive out Putin | DW Documentary

Key Concepts

• Shamanism: A spiritual practice involving a practitioner who is believed to be able to communicate with the spirit world.
• Warrior Shaman: A self-proclaimed shaman who believes they are destined for a spiritual battle.
• Exorcism of Putin: The central belief that Vladimir Putin is a "demon" who needs to be removed from power.
• Divine Mandate: The belief that actions are commanded by God or a higher power.
• Punitive Psychiatry: The use of psychiatric institutions to suppress dissent or political opposition.
• Heavenly Warrior: A spiritual warrior fighting for good and light.
• Year of Changes: A prophecy of significant global transformation.

Alexander Gabashev's Journey and Prophecies

The video chronicles the journey of Alexander Gabashev, a shaman from Yakutia, who is walking approximately 8,000 kilometers to Moscow with the stated intention of overthrowing President Vladimir Putin. Gabashev believes he has received a divine mandate to remove Putin, whom he refers to as a "demon" and an "alien."

Prophecies of Change and Conflict

Gabashev predicts significant changes in Russia within the first year of his journey, describing it as a "struggle for good" that will be a "hard fight" potentially involving sacrifice and bloodshed. He foresees victory for the people in the second year, but emphasizes that "good things are not given easily" and that many trials, including the possibility of his own death, must be overcome. His ultimate goal is to create a "good world, a very bright, kind world" for future generations, free from hostility and war.

Motivation and Personal Sacrifice

Gabashev's motivation stems from personal hardship, including the loss of his house and job due to fighting for justice, and his child's suffering from poverty. He states, "Poverty is everywhere in Russia." He is walking for the future of his children and for the freedom and rights of the people, asserting, "We don't have rights now. They took away everything. We have no one to complain to but God."

The "Laws of God" and Political Stance

Upon encountering supporters, Gabashev proclaims, "I bring you the laws of God by which you will live." He declares, "The people are the highest authority on earth. This is the law. The people are the highest power in Russia. This is the law. And from now on, Putin is not your law. Live free. This is the law." He explicitly states his intention is not to demand but to "exercise Putin."

Public Support and Media Attention

Gabashev has garnered significant public support, with people organizing demonstrations and offering financial contributions to his movement. His journey has attracted international media attention, with mentions in outlets like the New York Times, which described him as a "white magician" on a quest to "cast out Putin."

Gabashev's Identity as a "Warrior Shaman"

Gabashev identifies himself as a "warrior shaman," a designation that has been challenged by some individuals who question its authenticity within traditional shamanic practices. He asserts that "Tangry told me to be" a warrior shaman, a claim that is met with skepticism regarding its historical basis in Tangriism.

Personal History and Motivation for Shamanism

Gabashev reveals that his wife's death in 2010 motivated him to become a shaman, stating, "My wife's death motivated me. That's my destiny." He has been practicing shamanism for approximately ten years. He also shares childhood memories and photos, highlighting his early possession of a sword, which he disguised as a staff, symbolizing his premonition of a future battle.

The Sword as a Symbol of Readiness

The sword, which he carried everywhere, represents his readiness for a "battle ahead." He explains, "I came out of the forest knowing that I was a warrior shaman. The sword has always been with me ever since."

Confrontation and Arrest

The video depicts a confrontation where Gabashev is questioned about violating religious fundamentals. He maintains his identity as a "warrior shaman" and asserts his divine calling. Later, the narrative shifts to his arrest, described as a "special operation" by armed special forces who surrounded his camp and took him away without presenting documents. This event is framed as a suppression of his mission.

The "Lightning of God's Anger" Tattoo

Gabashev's tattoo, described as "the lightning of God's anger," is explained as a symbol of divine retribution against those who detain him. He states, "God is angry and these are the lightning bolts of his anger. He says, 'Release the shaman or you'll see my anger and I'll strike with my lightning.' My shaman name is God's lightning."

Gabashev's Philosophy of Light vs. Darkness

Gabashev presents a dichotomy of choices: the "way of darkness" if imprisoned or institutionalized, leading to a violent confrontation with "many warriors" reaching the Kremlin, or the "way of the light" if freed or placed on probation, involving peaceful spiritual cleansing through prayers and songs. He emphasizes that either path will culminate in the "exorcism of the demon."

The Role of Forgiveness and Non-Retaliation

A significant aspect of Gabashev's philosophy is the importance of forgiveness and non-retaliation, even towards his enemies and the "demon." He instructs his followers not to seek revenge but to mobilize globally for information dissemination and to create an "uproar." He believes that those who do not forgive will be "erased by God" and will not survive a coming "tsunami of the new world."

The "Year of Changes" and a New Era

Gabashev repeatedly refers to the current period as a "year of changes" and the dawn of a "new era." He urges people to forget the past and embrace bravery, stating, "From this year on, forget the past, this is the year of change and bravery will arise in the people. A new era is coming."

The Use of Punitive Psychiatry

The video highlights concerns about the potential use of punitive psychiatry against Gabashev. His lawyer is present, and there is discussion about the legal requirements for psychiatric commitment, emphasizing that a court order is necessary. The situation is described as a clear demonstration of the "mechanism of punitive psychiatry" in modern Russia.

Gabashev's Resistance to Medical Examination

Gabashev refuses to allow medical personnel and police into his home for tests, viewing it as an attempt to detain him. He declares, "I will resist. There will be blood. I will not sign it." He frames this as his "last battle" before Russia's potential rise.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The video concludes with Gabashev's continued resistance and his belief in a coming new world order. He reiterates his commitment to fighting for freedom and justice, urging his supporters to mobilize globally and create publicity. He emphasizes that his mission is to banish the "demon" and usher in an era of peace and prosperity, achieved through spiritual warfare and the power of forgiveness. The narrative suggests that Gabashev's actions are seen by some as a pivotal moment in Russian history, potentially leading to profound societal and spiritual transformation.