Shankaracharya Row: Avimukteshwaranand Calls It War Between Real and Fake Hindus

The ongoing controversy surrounding Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj has taken a significant religious and political turn, while swami Sadanand Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Dwarka Sharda Peeth, has openly come out in support of Avimukteshwaranand. During the Narmada Janmotsav program in Jabalpur, he questioned the administration's authority and stated that three Shankaracharyas stand firmly with Avimukteshwaranand. He condemned the alleged brutality against innocent Brahmins by the police and asserted that the administration has no right to demand certificates of title from a spiritual leader.

The Debate of Real vs Fake Hindus

Protesting outside his camp at the Magh Mela, Avimukteshwaranand hoisted the national flag and made a provocative statement. He claimed that the current struggle isn't against Muslims or outsiders but between 'Real Hindus' and 'Fake Hindus. ' Drawing parallels from the Mahabharata, he compared the situation to the battle between Dharma and power. He directly addressed the UP government, stating that he would only take the holy dip in the Sangam when Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath permits it, while he alleged that traditional Sanatan followers are being targeted by the current system.

Political Reactions and Keshav Maurya's Appeal

Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya visited Prayagraj and attempted to de-escalate the situation. He expressed his reverence for the Shankaracharya and requested him to end the dispute by completing the ritual bath. However, Avimukteshwaranand dismissed the appeal, suggesting that Maurya is being pressured by higher authorities. The administration has issued two notices to the Swami, questioning his title and the chaos during Mauni Amavasya, even threatening to ban him from the Magh Mela area. This has further fueled the fire of the protest.

Opposition Slams BJP Government

The Samajwadi Party has used this opportunity to criticize the BJP. SP spokesperson Nidhi Yadav stated that the government's actions against a religious leader show their fear and intolerance towards any form of dissent. MP Ziaur Rahman Barq added that the mistreatment of religious leaders is a new low for the administration. On the other hand, Acharya Pramod Krishnam took a different stance, advising the Shankaracharya to return to his monastery. He warned that certain elements are trying to turn the Shankaracharya into a 'Shukracharya' to create division within the country.

Kumar Vishwas Calls for Restraint

Renowned poet Kumar Vishwas also weighed in on the matter, urging the administration to act with sensitivity. He emphasized that those who wear saffron and dedicate their lives. To religion deserve a certain level of respect and dignity in communication. He appealed to the Shankaracharya to let go of his 'righteous anger' and bless everyone, while also apologizing as a common citizen for any disrespect shown to the saintly tradition. The standoff continues to draw national attention as both sides remain firm on their positions.