Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s open challenge to ‘ANiS’

• Open invitation for face-to-face discussion

• Satsang and ‘Divya Durbar’ Programme at Pune

Pune – The Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti (MANS) opposed the Satsang and ‘Divya Durbar’ programme of Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri alias Bageshwar Dham Sarkar in Pune. In response, on the 20th of November, Bageshwar Baba issued an open challenge to the committee. He said, “Come to my Durbar, present your perspectives. We will separate the truth from falsehood. Let’s engage in a face-to-face discussion”. He also stated that the constitution should be changed to declare India a Hindu Rashtra. Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri is conducting a 3-day Satsang at Sangamwadi in the city from 20th November. Before that, he interacted with the journalists.

Shastri further said that, “While speaking in Satsang, a single word often holds multiple meanings. The significance it assumes is contingent on the interpreter who selects it. I have never spoken with Ravan over the phone However, during the narration of a Katha (religious story), allegories are employed for illustrative purposes. My statements should be understood in that figurative sense. Also, one must visit the Doctor to cure illness. If ‘Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti’ has any objections, they should visit my durbar, no one will stop them”.

India should be declared as the Hindu Rashtra

Concerning his stance on Hindu Rashtra, he offered clarification, stating, “The Constitution of India has undergone numerous amendments in the past. I propose that it should be amended once again to declare India as the Hindu Rashtra. By Hindu Rashtra, I mean a state akin to Ram Rajya, emphasising principles of equality and good governance. In such a nation, there is no necessity for Muslims or Christians to relocate; they can coexist. However, those who oppose the country and its values will face consequences and be taught a lesson”.

What was ANiS’s objection ?

ANiS had called for action against Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, claiming that he engages in miraculous activities during his Satsang, purportedly curing diseases, conversing with Ravan over the phone, and making defamatory remarks about saints.

Editorial Perspective

ANiS should clarify whether it will accept this challenge or maintain its customary silence. Failing a clear response, it becomes imperative for the Government to take action against such organisations that tarnish the reputation of Hindu saints.