Privacy Policy
Sadhana ("the App") is a Hindu spiritual practice app developed as a personal devotional companion. Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains what information the App collects, how it is used, and your rights regarding that information.
Data Stored Locally on Your Device
The App stores the following data exclusively on your device. This data is never transmitted to our servers or any third party:
- Spiritual practice data — Japa session counts, reading progress, streaks, and milestones
- Personal reflections — Daily journal entries you create within the App
- Preferences — Tab order, selected mantras, Panchang location, ambient sound settings, and other customization choices
- Bookmarks and reading plans — Your saved positions and active reading plans
- Story progress — Katha reading progress, favorites, and downloaded story content cached locally on your device
- Puja content cache — Downloaded puja vidhi (procedure) and samagri (materials) files are cached in your device's local storage for offline access. This content is fetched from GitHub and refreshed automatically in the background when you open a puja.
- App configuration cache — Remote app settings (content URLs, display labels, feature flags) are cached locally so the App works correctly when offline.
- AI chat history — Conversations with the Sadhana AI Bot are stored on your device. If you are signed into iCloud, chat messages may also be synced to your private iCloud account via Apple's CloudKit (see "iCloud Sync" below)
- Purchase status — Whether you have unlocked Premium is cached locally for fast access; the authoritative record is maintained by Apple through StoreKit
- Notification preferences — Whether you have enabled push notifications and your notification prompt responses are stored locally
Push Notifications (Firebase Cloud Messaging)
If you enable push notifications, the App uses Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) to deliver notifications such as weekly wisdom stories, festival reminders, and spiritual content updates.
- Device token — A unique, anonymous token generated by Apple's Push Notification service (APNs) is forwarded to Firebase Cloud Messaging. This token identifies your device for notification delivery — it does not contain personal information and cannot be used to identify you.
- Topic subscriptions — Your device is subscribed to notification topics (e.g., "all_users") to receive relevant content. Premium users may be subscribed to an additional topic for premium-specific notifications. These subscriptions are anonymous and tied to the device token, not to any personal identity.
- No message content is stored — Notification content is delivered in real-time and is not stored on our servers.
You can disable push notifications at any time through your device's Settings. Disabling notifications does not affect any other functionality of the App.
iCloud Sync (CloudKit)
The App uses Apple's CloudKit to sync your AI chat history across your devices via your iCloud account. This data is stored in your private iCloud container — only you can access it. We cannot read, access, or retrieve your synced data. iCloud sync is automatic if you are signed into iCloud on your device; no separate login is required. If you delete the App, synced data remains in your iCloud account and will be restored if you reinstall.
Data We Do NOT Collect
- We do not collect personal identification information (name, email, phone number)
- We do not require account creation or sign-in
- We do not track your location
- We do not use analytics, advertising SDKs, or third-party tracking tools
- We do not store personal data on our own servers (AI chat and iCloud sync are handled by Google and Apple respectively — see details below)
Device Permissions
The App may request the following permissions, each used solely for the stated purpose:
| Permission | Purpose |
|---|
| Location | Show temples near you on the Temple Map. |
| Calendar | Add Hindu festivals and vrats to your calendar. |
| Microphone | Aarti sing-along feature — listens to your singing to highlight the current lyric line. Audio is processed on-device and is never recorded or transmitted. |
| Speech Recognition | Recognizes aarti lyrics being sung to follow along with the text. Processing occurs on-device via Apple's Speech framework. |
| Photo Library (Save) | Save verse cards as images to your photo library for sharing. The App does not read or access your existing photos. |
| Notifications | Send daily reading reminders, weekly wisdom stories, festival reminders, and spiritual content updates via push notifications. You control permissions and can disable notifications at any time in Settings. |
You may deny any of these permissions, and the App will continue to function — only the specific feature requiring that permission will be unavailable.
AI Features and Third-Party Data Sharing
The App includes optional AI-powered features (Sadhana AI Bot, Ask Jyotish, verse explanations, daily insights, and personalized sadhana) that send data to Google's Gemini AI for processing. Before any data is sent, the App displays a consent screen that explains what data will be sent, who receives it, and asks for your permission.
What data is sent: Your messages and prompts; conversation history (for context); birth details (only for Kundli/Jyotish features).
How it is collected: When you type a message, tap a prompt, or use AI-enhanced features, that input is transmitted to Google.
All uses: To generate AI responses, predictions, insights, and personalized content. No other use is made of this data by the App.
Who receives it: Google's Gemini AI (Google LLC). Google processes this data per the Gemini Apps Privacy Notice. Google provides the same or equal protection for user data as described therein.
Your choice: AI features are optional. You may decline consent and use the App fully without AI. If you allow, data is sent only when you actively use an AI feature.
Network Usage
The App may connect to the internet for the following purposes:
- Sadhana AI Bot — When you use the AI chat feature (after granting consent), your messages are sent to Google's Gemini AI model via Firebase AI Logic to generate responses. Google processes these messages per the Gemini Apps Privacy Notice and Firebase Data Privacy. The AI Bot is scoped to dharmic/spiritual topics only. Do not share sensitive personal information in chat.
- iCloud Sync — AI chat messages are synced to your private iCloud account via Apple's CloudKit, enabling chat history to persist across app reinstalls and sync across your devices
- Remote app configuration — On each launch, the App fetches a small configuration file from GitHub containing content URLs, display labels, and feature settings. No personal data is sent. This is used to update dynamic content pointers without requiring an App Store release.
- Puja catalog & content — The puja catalog (list of available pujas) and individual puja vidhi/samagri JSON files are fetched from GitHub. Each time you open a puja, the App background-refreshes its content so you always have the latest version without a new app release. No personal data is sent.
- Scripture content — Download optional scripture content packs (e.g., Vedas, Mahabharata) from GitHub
- Aarti, Chalisa & Lyrics catalog — Fetch the latest aarti, chalisa, bhajan, mantra, and stotra texts from GitHub
- Stories catalog — Download the stories catalog and individual story content from GitHub
- Live Darshan — Load temple live-stream information and embed YouTube video players for in-app darshan viewing
- Temple information (Wikipedia) — When you tap "Learn more on Wikipedia" on a temple detail page, the App opens the relevant Wikipedia article inside an in-app browser (SFSafariViewController). Your interaction with Wikipedia is subject to Wikimedia's Privacy Policy. The App itself does not transmit any data to Wikipedia.
- Push notifications — Receive weekly wisdom stories, festival reminders, and content updates via Firebase Cloud Messaging. An anonymous device token is used for delivery (see "Push Notifications" section above)
- Temple participation — When temple representatives register their temple or add events via "Register your temple," that data (temple name, address, contact info, events) is stored in Google Firebase Firestore. Firebase's Privacy Policy applies.
- In-App Purchases — Communicate with Apple's App Store servers to process Premium unlock purchases and verify entitlements
The App functions fully offline for all bundled content (Panchatantra stories, Ramcharitmanas, Bhagavad Gita, Panchang, core puja guides, and more). Previously fetched puja content, lyrics, and stories are also available offline from local cache. The AI Bot, push notifications, and Wikipedia links require an internet connection.
Data Security
All data is stored locally using Apple's standard frameworks (SwiftData). It is protected by your device's built-in security features, including device passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID. We have no access to your data.
Data Retention & Deletion
You control your data entirely. Deleting the App removes all locally stored data from your device. AI chat messages synced to iCloud via CloudKit will remain in your iCloud account and will be restored if you reinstall the App. To permanently delete synced chat data, use the "Clear Conversation" option in the AI Bot before uninstalling, or manage your iCloud storage through iOS Settings.
Children's Privacy
The App does not collect personal information from any user, making it safe for individuals of all ages.
Third-Party Services
The App does not use any third-party analytics, advertising, or tracking services. The following third-party services are used for specific features:
- Google Firebase AI Logic (Gemini) — Powers the Sadhana AI Bot, Ask Jyotish, palm reading, verse explanations, daily insights, and personalized sadhana. When you use these features (after granting consent), your message text, conversation history, birth details (for Jyotish), and palm photos (for palm reading) are transmitted to Google's servers for processing. Google processes this data per the Gemini Apps Privacy Notice and provides the same or equal protection for user data. No other personal data (name, device ID, location) is sent. AI features are optional — you are never required to use them.
- Apple CloudKit (iCloud) — Syncs AI chat messages to your private iCloud account. This data is encrypted and stored by Apple in your personal iCloud container. Only you can access it; we have no ability to read your synced data. Apple's Privacy Policy applies.
- Google Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) — Delivers push notifications to your device. An anonymous device token (generated by Apple's APNs) is shared with Firebase to enable delivery. No personal data is sent. Firebase's Privacy Policy applies.
- Google Firebase Firestore — Stores temple participation data (temple registrations, events) when temple representatives use the "Register your temple" feature. Data is processed per Firebase's Privacy Policy.
- Google Firebase Storage — May be used for profile photo uploads in future features (e.g., Purohit Seva). Firebase's Privacy Policy applies.
- GitHub (raw.githubusercontent.com) — Hosts downloadable scripture files, story content, lyrics catalog, puja vidhi, and remote app configuration. No personal data is sent; only content files are fetched. Requests are made without authentication for public content.
- YouTube (youtube.com) — Live Darshan temple streams are embedded using YouTube's standard embed player. YouTube's own privacy policy applies to video playback. No user data is shared by the App with YouTube.
- Wikipedia / Wikimedia Foundation — Temple detail pages offer an optional "Learn more on Wikipedia" link that opens inside an in-app browser. When accessed, Wikipedia's standard web privacy terms apply. The App does not send any user data to Wikimedia; it simply opens the public web page.
- Apple StoreKit — Processes in-app purchases for Premium unlock and voluntary donations. Transactions are handled entirely by Apple; the App does not collect or store payment information.
Crash Diagnostics (MetricKit)
The App uses Apple's built-in MetricKit framework to receive crash and hang diagnostics for stability improvements. This data is processed locally on your device. When you have "Share with App Developers" or "Share iPhone Analytics" enabled in iOS Settings, similar diagnostic data may be shared with Apple and made available to developers through Xcode Organizer. We do not send this data to our own servers.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any changes will be reflected with an updated "Last updated" date at the top of this document. Continued use of the App after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.
Contact
Content Disclaimer & Terms of Use
Content Accuracy
The spiritual, religious, and scriptural content provided in the Sadhana app — including shlokas, mantras, aarti lyrics, chalisa texts, puja instructions, stotra, Panchang/tithi data, and translations — is offered for informational and devotional purposes only.
While we strive to present content faithful to traditional sources, we do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or correctness of any content in the App. Variations in scripture texts, transliterations, translations, and interpretations are common across different traditions, regions, and scholarly sources.
Specifically:
- Sanskrit/Devanagari texts may contain typographical variations compared to specific printed editions
- Transliterations follow common romanization conventions but may differ from other systems (IAST, Harvard-Kyoto, etc.)
- Translations and meanings are simplified for general understanding and may not reflect the full depth of scholarly commentary
- Panchang and tithi data is computed/sourced for general reference and may differ from your local pandit's calculations
- Puja instructions are generalized guides and should not be considered a substitute for guidance from a qualified priest or guru. Puja vidhi content is updated dynamically from our GitHub repository and may change between app sessions.
No Professional or Religious Authority
The App does not claim to be a religious authority. Content is curated from publicly available traditional texts and common devotional practices. The App is not affiliated with any specific temple, religious organization, sampradaya, or spiritual lineage.
Users are encouraged to consult qualified religious scholars, pandits, or their own guru for authoritative guidance.
AI-Generated Content
The Sadhana AI Bot provides responses generated by artificial intelligence (Google Gemini). While the AI is configured to discuss only dharmic and spiritual topics, AI-generated content may contain inaccuracies. The AI Bot is not a substitute for a qualified guru, pandit, or religious scholar. Users should verify important spiritual guidance with authoritative sources. The developers are not responsible for any actions taken based on AI-generated responses.
In-App Purchases & Financial Transactions
The App offers core features at no cost, including the complete Panchatantra story collection, all scriptures, aarti, chalisa, mantra, stotra, puja guides (Ganesh Puja, Shiva Puja, Sri Ramanavami Puja), Panchang, Japa counter, Temple Map, and a free trial of the Sadhana AI Bot. Additional premium features are available through the following purchase options:
- Yearly Subscription ($12.99/year) — All premium features + 500 Sadhana AI Bot messages per month. Billed annually. Auto-renews unless cancelled at least 24 hours before the end of the billing period.
- Monthly Subscription ($1.99/month) — All premium features + 500 Sadhana AI Bot messages per month. Billed monthly. Auto-renews unless cancelled.
- Lifetime ("Forever Yours", $39.99) — A one-time, non-consumable purchase that unlocks all premium features + 100 Sadhana AI Bot messages per month, permanently. Tied to your Apple ID and restored on any device signed in with the same Apple ID.
- Voluntary donations (Dakshina) — Optional tips offered in good faith as seva (service) to support continued development.
Premium features include:
- Jyotish & Astrology — up to 20 Kundli charts (3 free), Ashtakoot compatibility matching, AI-generated predictions & PDF horoscope reports, and Ask Jyotish AI chat
- Sadhana AI Bot — extended monthly message allowance and access to all spiritual topics
- Ask AI about any verse — AI explanations for scripture verses
- Premium story categories — Puranic stories, Epic tales (Ramayana, Mahabharata), and Saints stories
- Story audio narration
- Any future premium content added to the App
Subscriptions can be managed and cancelled in your Apple ID Settings → Subscriptions. All transactions are processed entirely by Apple through StoreKit. The App does not collect, store, or have access to any payment or billing information. No spiritual outcomes are guaranteed in exchange for any purchase. Refunds are handled by Apple per their standard refund policies.
Not Medical Advice
The App does not provide medical, psychological, or health advice. Spiritual practices described in the App — including chanting, fasting, meditation, and devotional routines — are voluntary and undertaken at the user's discretion. Consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, or lifestyle based on any fasting or practice guidelines referenced in the App.
Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law:
- No warranties — The App and all its content are provided "as is" and "as available", without warranties of any kind, either express or implied.
- No liability for content — The developers shall not be held liable for any claims, damages, or legal actions arising from: errors or inaccuracies in content; any interpretation or use of content; any offense, hurt sentiment, or disagreement from content presentation; or reliance on Panchang data, tithi calculations, muhurat timings, or fasting guidelines.
- Waiver of claims for content — To the fullest extent permitted by law, users waive the right to bring claims against the developers arising solely from religious or spiritual content presented in the App.
- Indemnification — You agree to indemnify and hold harmless the developers from any claims, liabilities, damages, costs, and expenses (including legal fees) arising from your use of the App or any dispute related to its content.
Intellectual Property
- Scripture texts (Ramcharitmanas, Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, Upanishads, etc.) are ancient texts in the public domain
- Aarti and chalisa lyrics are traditional devotional compositions in the public domain
- Stories (Panchatantra, Puranic tales, Epic tales, and Saints stories) are retellings of traditional Indian narratives in the public domain
- App design, code, artwork, and curation are the intellectual property of the App's developers
- The Om (ॐ) symbol and other religious symbols used are universal sacred symbols and are not claimed as trademarks
Arbitration
Any disputes arising from use of the App shall be resolved through binding arbitration in the State of California, rather than in court, except where prohibited by law.
Governing Law
This disclaimer shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United States of America and the State of California, without regard to conflict of law principles.
Acceptance
By downloading, installing, or using the Sadhana app, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to this Privacy Policy, Content Disclaimer, and Terms of Use.