Location: Delhi / Shivpuri (Madhya Pradesh)
Political Update: Demands for FIR and cancellation of programs over Dhirendra Shastri's statement; Shastri clarifies, "Spoke out of emotional devotion, tender an apology"
A political storm has erupted over comments comparing Lord Ram and Lord Krishna made by Bageshwar Dham's Dhirendra Shastri (Dhirendra Krishna Garg). He made these remarks during an event in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh. As social media debates intensify, several opposition leaders have joined the attack, while the VHP and select NDA leaders have stepped in to defend Shastri.
Who Said What?
Akhilesh Yadav (SP): Questioned, "Why are Sanatanis silent?" He remarked that comments were first aimed at Lord Krishna and now regarding Lord Ram's father. Demanding the cancellation of all of Shastri's public events for disturbing social harmony, he asked where the "Sanatanis' bulldozers" were.
Pappu Yadav (Independent MP): Visited the Parliament Street police station in Delhi demanding an FIR. He called for strict regulations for religious preachers and a 'Model Code of Conduct' for speaking on religion, alleging that Shastri is sponsored by specific political leaders and a party.
Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shivsena UBT): Questioned how comparing Ram and Krishna could be justified and why the party that promoted him remains silent.
Surendra Rajput (UP Congress): Stated that anyone seeking to divide Ram and Krishna cannot be considered a true religious leader.
Rae Bareli Lawyers: Staged protests outside the District Magistrate's office demanding an FIR and strict action.
Who Came to His Defense?
OP Rajbhar (UP Minister): Taunted Akhilesh, asking what connection he has with Krishna since he never visits Mathura and only speaks on Twitter and in press conferences.
Shriraj Nair (VHP Spokesperson): Stated that every Hindu is a 'Hindu', whereas Akhilesh Yadav is merely an "electoral Hindu."
Shastri's Clarification
Dhirendra Shastri clarified, "I offered a loving complaint (ulahna) to Shri Thakur Ji (Krishna) in an emotional moment, which people misinterpreted. We never intended to differentiate between Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. I am myself a devotee of Krishna. If anyone's sentiments were hurt, I sincerely apologize. We did not attempt to divide God."
Past Controversies
In September, demands for an FIR against him were raised at the Bhawanipore police station in Kolkata. South Kolkata District Congress President Pradeep Prasad accused him of calling Bengalis 'hypocrites' for consuming meat during Durga Puja.
Shastri is the head priest of Bageshwar Dham located in Gada village, Chhatarpur. He first gained national spotlight in 2022 following allegations of promoting superstition during an event in Nagpur.
