Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Ji Expresses Displeasure Over Dhirendra Shastri’s Statement
Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Ji Maharaj of Jyotish Peeth has voiced strong objections to the remarks made by storyteller Dhirendra Shastri regarding the tragic deaths caused by a stampede at the Prayagraj Mahakumbh. Expressing his deep displeasure, Shankaracharya questioned the rationale behind calling such deaths a form of salvation. He challenged Dhirendra Shastri by asking that if he truly believes in his statement, why does he not seek such salvation himself at the ongoing Mahakumbh?
Accusation of Insensitivity and Political Motivation
Shankaracharya directly accused Dhirendra Shastri of attempting to trivialize the grave incident to gain favor with certain groups. He criticized the storyteller’s remarks as highly inappropriate, stating that instead of easing the pain of the bereaved families, his words have only intensified their sorrow. According to the spiritual leader, the loss of loved ones should be mourned with empathy, not ridiculed.
Reaction from Paramhansa Peethadheeshwar Shivyogi Mouni Maharaj
Adding to the criticism, Paramhansa Peethadheeshwar Shivyogi Mouni Maharaj also condemned Dhirendra Shastri’s remarks. He warned that such statements from saints and storytellers only exacerbate public anger and suffering. The situation has reportedly led to such outrage among devotees that some have openly declared they would push Dhirendra Shastri if they see him, to give him the so-called ‘salvation’ he speaks of.
Allegations Against Government Actions
Furthermore, Shivyogi Mouni Maharaj alleged that the government is attempting to downplay the severity of the stampede incident. He accused the authorities of erasing and weakening critical evidence related to the tragedy, thereby obstructing the truth from coming to light.
Collective Discontent Among Saints
Apart from Shankaracharya, several other saints have also condemned Dhirendra Shastri’s statement. They have unanimously labeled his comments as insensitive and inappropriate. Shivyogi Mouni Maharaj, who had taken Bhu Samadhi for several hours on Friday as a mark of grief over the deaths, described the statement as immature and disrespectful towards the grieving families. He insisted that such remarks are unacceptable and urged Dhirendra Shastri to retract his words and issue a public apology.
Calls for Government Intervention
Many saints have also called upon the government to take note of the situation and take necessary action. They pointed out that devotees are attending the Mahakumbh in large numbers based on official invitations, and their safety should be a top priority. Their message was clear: pilgrims come to Mahakumbh for spiritual merit, not to face untimely deaths under the guise of ‘salvation.’
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