Sanatan Dharma: Anand Akhara President Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati, in a special conversation with IANS on Tuesday (31 December), expressed his views on Shahi Snan, Sanatan Dharma, Kumbh Mela and many other issues. He clarified his views on various religious and social issues which remain a topic of discussion in the society.
Mahant Shankaranand gave his reaction on the uproar over the royal bath. He said that if there is any objection to the term Shahi Snan, it can be called ‘Amrit Snan’. He believed that this word is related to culture and there is no harm in any word which is related to our tradition. Mahant also told that it was correct when kings and emperors used it with respect.
Supported Mohan Bhagwat’s statement
Mahant supported the statement of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat. He said that he is respected, but context and complete information is necessary to understand any statement. Mahant also said that political statements should be avoided in this matter and the decision should be taken on the basis of facts.
Mahant’s clear answer on the crisis of Sanatan Dharma
On the question of Sanatan Dharma being in danger, Mahant Shankaranand said that Sanatan Dharma can never be in danger. They believe that whenever there is a crisis, some incarnation comes who protects the religion. His view was that the foundation of Sanatan Dharma is strong and its existence will always remain.
Mahant’s opinion on Kumbh Mela and Muslim shopkeepers
Mahant Shankaranand also expressed his opinion on the presence of Muslim shopkeepers and government officials in the Kumbh Mela area. He said that there is no opposition to Muslims, but some restrictions are necessary to maintain purity. He believed that Kumbh Mela is a religious event and it is very important to maintain its sanctity.
On the purpose of Dharma Sansad, Mahant Shankaranand clarified that this event is to discuss the concept of Hindu Rashtra. He also said that this is a religious event and it should not be politicized. Their demand is that religion, culture and faith should be protected.
Mahant’s reaction on political announcements
Shankaranand described the water of Ganga as naturally pure and suitable for bathing. He said that there is a need to take concrete steps for the conservation of Ganga. Along with this, he talked about keeping religion and politics separate and welcomed all the leaders in organizing the Kumbh.
On Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal’s plan to give Rs 18,000 monthly to priests and priests, Mahant called it a political announcement. He said that such tempting promises cannot be trusted in politics. He considered it just an election trick.
Vote bank politics also criticized
Mahant Shankaranand criticized Akhilesh Yadav for giving assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of the victims of Sambhal violence. He called it a step inspired by vote bank politics and said that such steps promote vote bank rather than secularism. On the question of passing the Hindu Rashtra resolution in Kumbh, Shankaranand said that it is in the hands of the government. He clarified that this can only be a demand which the government can pass whenever it wants.
Through his statement, Mahant Shankaranand shared his understanding on many issues and expressed the need to maintain religious and political balance in the society. He believed that protecting religion, culture and purity is the primary responsibility of our society.
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