The saint community has been stirred into controversy following recent remarks made by Jagatguru Swami Avimukteshwaranand Maharaj, particularly concerning Uddhav Thackeray, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Swami Jitendranand Saraswati Ji Maharaj and Mahant Shaileshanand Giri have both expressed strong disapproval of Avimukteshwaranand’s comments, labeling them as politically motivated and detrimental to the sanctity of their positions.
Swami Jitendranand Saraswati Ji Maharaj criticize Avimukteshwaranand for allegedly remaining silent during the Palghar incidents, where saints tragically murdered under Uddhav Thackeray’s governance. Saraswati Ji asserted that Avimukteshwaranand’s recent statements were opportunistic and aimed solely at garnering publicity.
In addition to questioning Avimukteshwaranand’s intentions, Saraswati Ji challenged the validity of accusations regarding missing gold from Kedarnath Dham, demanding transparency regarding funds collected for the Ramalaya Trust post the Ram Mandir Janmabhoomi verdict.
Injustices Against Saints
Mahant Shaileshanand Giri echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that high-ranking sadhus should refrain from making political statements. Giri lamented the lack of response from Avimukteshwaranand on past injustices against saints, suggesting that such actions diminish the dignity of their revered positions.
Meanwhile, Mahant Harisiddhi Giri of Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara added a stern rebuke directed at Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that the consequences faced by Thackeray were a direct result of his perceived negligence towards the Palghar murders. Giri underscore that justice for slain saints adequately pursue under Thackeray’s administration.
Persist Until Justice
Avimukteshwaranand Maharaj’s remarks during his visit to Mumbai for Anant-Radhika’s wedding, where he publicly lamente feeling betray by Uddhav Thackeray, emphasizing that his anguish would persist until justice.
In a separate development, the construction of a temple resembling Kedarnath in Delhi has sparked interest. The Shri Kedar Trust Burari has obtained authorization for a three-acre plot in Hiranki, Burari, citing the symbolic importance of replicating the Kedarnath temple, which remains closed for six months each year.
The controversy surrounding Avimukteshwaranand’s statements continues to reverberate within the saint community, highlighting deep-seated divisions over the appropriateness of mixing spiritual leadership with political discourse.
