Attended Mayapur ISKCON Event As Devotee; Not Home Minister: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that he attended a religious gathering at the International Society for Krishna Consciousness temple in Mayapur as a devotee, not in his official capacity. The event took place in West Bengal’s Nadia district.

He addressed the congregation on the 152nd birth anniversary of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, the 19th-century Vaishnav reformer and founder of the Gaudiya Math.

During his brief remarks, he avoided political commentary. He focused instead on the spiritual heritage of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and the devotional movement he inspired.

Shah informed the gathering that he had spoken with Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier in the day.

He conveyed the Prime Minister’s greetings and devotional message to the assembled followers.

Amit Shah clarified that he had not come as the Union Home Minister.

He described himself as a humble follower of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. He emphasised that the occasion centred on faith and spiritual reflection.

Shah noted that Chaitanya Mahaprabhu initiated a transformative devotional movement.

He said Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati later institutionalised and modernised that movement. HM Amit Shah credited him with expanding the Vaishnav philosophy in contemporary times.

He stated that the movement did not merely continue tradition. It adapted itself to inspire youth and promote global welfare through spiritual engagement.

Shah observed that Chaitanya Mahaprabhu guided individuals immersed in ignorance towards a path of devotion. He said the saint spread the message of bhakti across eastern and northeastern India.

He added that every individual embodies both virtue and flaw. However, he said, when one surrenders ego and aligns with Lord Krishna, goodness prevails.

He explained that Chaitanya Mahaprabhu used kirtan, devotional music, dance and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to awaken spiritual consciousness.

HM Amit Shah concluded that the devotional tradition continues to illuminate lives and unite devotees beyond political identity.