Anagarika Govinda was a highly respected Buddhist scholar and mystic who made significant contributions to the understanding of Buddhism in the Western world. However, like any other influential figure, Govinda also faced some controversies and criticisms surrounding his work.

One of the main controversies surrounding Govinda was his claim to have achieved enlightenment and become a fully ordained monk in the Tibetan tradition. Some critics argued that his claims were not supported by any official recognition from the Tibetan Buddhist authorities. This led to doubts about the authenticity of Govinda's spiritual experiences and his qualifications as a teacher of Buddhism.

Moreover, Govinda's emphasis on the esoteric and mystical aspects of Buddhism was also met with criticism. Some scholars argued that his interpretations of Buddhist teachings were too heavily influenced by his own personal experiences and beliefs, rather than being rooted in traditional Buddhist texts and teachings. This led to debates about the validity of Govinda's teachings and their relevance to the wider Buddhist community.

Another controversy surrounding Govinda was his involvement with the Nazi party during his early years in Germany. While Govinda later distanced himself from the party and publicly denounced their ideologies, his association with them was seen as problematic by many. This raised questions about his moral character and credibility as a spiritual leader.

Despite these controversies, it is important to note that Govinda's work and teachings were also widely praised and respected by many. He was seen as a pioneer in bringing Buddhist philosophy and practices to the West and was highly regarded for his deep understanding of the subject. His writings, including his influential book "The Way of the White Clouds," continue to be read and studied by Buddhist practitioners and scholars around the world.

In conclusion, while Anagarika Govinda faced some controversies and criticisms during his lifetime, his contributions to the understanding and dissemination of Buddhism cannot be overlooked. His work continues to inspire and influence people, and his legacy as a Buddhist scholar and mystic remains strong.