Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the head priest of Bageshwar Dham, recently responded sharply to the denial of permission for his Katha (religious discourse) in West Bengal. Expressing his frustration, he made it clear that he would not hold any religious discourse in the state as long as Mamata Banerjee is the Chief Minister. His comments came after the West Bengal government canceled the permission for his scheduled Katha, which was supposed to take place from October 10 to 12, 2025, in Kolkata.
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s Strong Words for Mamata Banerjee
Speaking at a Katha event in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said, “When I was supposed to visit West Bengal, Didi (Mamata Banerjee) denied me permission. The permission was canceled. As long as Didi is in power, I will not go to West Bengal. But if Dada (a reference to a new leadership) comes, I will certainly go. However, I pray that Didi remains in power. I have no issues with her, but I hope she keeps her wisdom intact and stays true to her faith, without opposing religion.”
The Canceled Katha Event in Kolkata
The religious discourse was scheduled to take place in Kolkata from October 10 to 12, 2025. However, the permission was revoked by the West Bengal government due to waterlogging caused by heavy rains in the area. This cancellation deeply disappointed Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri. Despite this setback, he made it clear that his refusal to visit West Bengal was not a personal grudge but a stance based on the political and religious context.
Focus on Hindu Unity and Nationalism
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri is known for his firm stance on Hindu unity and the idea of a Hindu nation. During his religious discourses, he emphasizes the importance of bringing Hindus together and promoting Hindu nationalism. He has been vocal about his belief in the restoration of Hindu values and his opposition to anything that goes against the Hindu faith. In his recent speeches, he made it clear that he was not aligned with any political party but supported the ideology of Hindutva.
While addressing the crowd in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri stated, “The Sanatan Dharma has neither a beginning nor an end, and that is why it is eternal. Three thousand years ago, only Sanatanis lived on this earth. People of other religions, if they trace their ancestry, will find that their roots are in Sanatan Dharma. The true Muslims live in foreign lands. Here, everyone is converted.”
The Political Stance of Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has repeatedly clarified that his mission is not to support or oppose any political party. Instead, his focus is on the unification of Hindus and the promotion of Hindu values. He believes that the concept of Hinduism transcends any particular political ideology and should be preserved and upheld for future generations.
His comments, especially those made about the identity of Muslims in India, have sparked significant controversy. His statements have been seen as a part of his broader discourse on the preservation of Hindu culture and identity in India. However, these views have also attracted criticism, especially from those who argue that such remarks may deepen religious divisions in the country.
A Call for Wisdom and Religious Unity
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, despite his strong views, has consistently called for wisdom and respect for all religions. He made it clear during his speech that his opposition was not directed towards Mamata Banerjee personally but was based on her stance towards Hinduism and religious freedom. He urged the people to respect the wisdom of leaders while also standing firm in their religious beliefs.
Reactions to the Cancellation of Permission for Katha
The cancellation of the Katha in West Bengal has also sparked discussions about religious freedom and the role of politics in such matters. Many of Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s supporters have expressed disappointment, believing that the denial of permission is an attempt to suppress religious expression. They argue that spiritual leaders should be allowed to hold religious discourses freely, regardless of the political climate in a state.
The situation has raised questions about the balance between politics and religion. While some argue that the denial was due to logistical concerns, others believe that it was politically motivated. Regardless, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri remains firm in his belief that as long as Mamata Banerjee holds power, he will not hold his Katha in West Bengal.
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s Influence and Future Plans
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s influence continues to grow, not just in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, but across India. His religious discourses attract large crowds, with his messages of Hindu unity and nationalism resonating deeply with many. Despite the cancellation of the Kolkata Katha, he remains a significant figure in the spiritual and political landscape of India.
He has announced that he will continue to spread his message of Hinduism, unity, and nationalism through his future religious discourses. His supporters eagerly await his next Katha, as they believe his words have the power to inspire and bring about change.
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s strong stance on Hinduism, his focus on Hindu unity, and his political commentary continue to spark discussions across India. His refusal to hold a Katha in West Bengal as long as Mamata Banerjee remains the Chief Minister highlights the deep connection he sees between politics and religion. While his views have garnered both support and criticism, there is no denying the influence he has in shaping the religious and political discourse in the country. As he moves forward with his mission, it will be interesting to see how his words and actions continue to shape the future of Hinduism and politics in India.
