David Chidester's Authentic Fakes considers that "even fake religions can be doing a kind of symbolic, cultural, and religious work that is real." (9) The key word in this idea being real. Religion ultimately involves real connections, real advice, and real experiences woven into an identity larger than oneself.
As demonstrated through Vikram Gandhi's documentary Kumaré, a completely fabricated religion filled with seemingly meaningless rituals, like the yoga movements, was able to very intimately connect with different people. Sure Kumaré's fake costume and props could have facilitated his supporters' trust initially, but ultimately people stick by him at the end of the film because he was a real companion. His kind of teaching encouraged peoples' beliefs in themselves, and as such they could trust him in the end because he did not claim to be a prophet or other godly-figure; he merely acts as an enabler for individuals faith in their own powers and abilities.
Similarly, the celebration of the fabricated holiday, Festivus in Seinfeld, encompasses very real and honest dialogue. Through the "feats of strength" and "airing of grievances", very truthful communication can take place. Although the holiday observance evokes humor on the show, its purpose is to acknowledge real experiences, good or bad, and to celebrate life in its entirety.
Although these are two fabricated religious experiences, they honor real experiences and interactions and allow people to connect and grow. If someone benefits from these religions, does it matter if they were fake originally?
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