In Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the head priest of Bageshwar Dham, has sparked conversation with his recent remarks on a prominent Muslim festival. He raised concerns over animal sacrifice during Bakrid (Eid al-Adha) and expressed his opposition to what he referred to as the increasing cases of “love jihad” across the country.
Let’s take a closer look at what Dhirendra Shastri had to say about the Muslim festival and related practices.
What Did Dhirendra Shastri Say About Bakrid?
Speaking about the tradition of animal sacrifice on Bakrid, Dhirendra Shastri stated that violence against animals is wrong, regardless of religion, culture, or tradition. He emphasized, “We do not support Bakrid in its current form. If we don’t have the power to give life, we have no right to take it either.”
He further added that alternatives should be explored to replace animal sacrifice. According to him, had there been different societal systems in place at the time, ritual sacrifice of goats might not have become part of religious practice.
Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh: Dhirendra Krishna Shastri of Bageshwar Dham on Eid al-Adha (Bakra Eid) says, "Violence against living beings is not acceptable in any community, culture, or religion. We do not support animal sacrifice or rituals like Bakra Eid. If we cannot save a… pic.twitter.com/Y8BhvDkgF3
— IANS (@ians_india) May 31, 2025
A Call for Compassion Over Tradition
Dhirendra Shastri also acknowledged that ritual sacrifice exists in Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism) as well, but stressed that times have changed. “Even in our own tradition, there were practices of sacrifice, and we acknowledge that history. However, society evolves, and today, there is a greater understanding of compassion. It’s time we put an end to all forms of violence against living beings,” he said.
Shastri’s comments have ignited debate across social and religious circles, drawing both support and criticism. His statement calls for a broader discussion on balancing religious traditions with modern values of empathy and non-violence.
