New Delhi , India ( CNN ) -- Famed Indian spiritual guru Sri Sathya Sai Baba died Sunday of respiratory failure , his doctors said . He was 85 . The orange-robed spiritual leader with a puff of dark hair is considered a living god by his followers in India and overseas . His followers believe he has supernatural powers . However , critics have accused him of fraud and sexual abuse , allegations he has denied . The guru claimed to be a reincarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi , one of India 's greatest spiritual figures , who died in 1918 . Sri Sathya Sai Baba was hospitalized last month in his southern India hometown of n Puttaparthi . Authorities have tightened security around the town since his condition started worsening . In a hospital bulletin , doctors did not use the word death to announce his passing . It said he was `` no more with us physically '' and that he left `` his earthly body '' on Sunday . Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed his condolences and said the nation mourns his passing . He inspired millions to lead a meaningful life regardless of their religions , the prime minister said . `` His teachings were rooted in the universal ideals of truth , right conduct , peace , love and nonviolence , '' he said . `` I express my sincere condolences to the millions of his followers , disciples and well wishers . '' The guru has set up various health , education and charity organizations . His body will lie in state for two days so his followers can pay their respects , according to the hospital , which is funded by his organization .
The spiritual leader dies after cardio - respiratory failure . His followers believe he is blessed with supernatural powers . Sri Sathya Sai Baba was hospitalized last month .