KKN Gurugram Desk | Spiritual leader Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, popularly known as Baba Bageshwar, addressed a massive gathering in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, during the Vishnu Mahayagya at Radha Nagar, Patahi Chausima, Madhubani. During his sermon, he made several strong remarks on religious identity, national defense, social development, and the caste census.

Addressing thousands of followers, some of whom came from neighboring Nepal, Baba Bageshwar emotionally recalled the Pahalgam terrorist attack, praised the Indian Army’s retaliatory actions in Pakistan, and called for a Hindu Rashtra. He also voiced his preference for an economic census over caste-based enumeration, urging focus on poverty and inequality.

Baba’s Bond with Bihar: ‘I Wish to Be Reborn Here’

Opening his address with a traditional Bhojpuri greeting — “Ka haal ba, Muzaffarpur walon?” — Dhirendra Shastri expressed his deep affection for the land of Bihar.

“After Bageshwar Dham, if I am granted a second birth, I want it to be in Bihar,” he said, adding that he would return again next year for a three-day spiritual session.

He praised the people of Muzaffarpur for their patience and devotion, declaring the soil of the region to be sacred and powerful. Though he arrived late at around 10 PM, he humbly apologized to the crowd and promised to return to make up for the delay.

Strong Reaction on Pahalgam Attack: ‘They Killed by Asking Religion, We Responded by Entering Pakistan’

Reacting to the Pahalgam terror attack, where civilians were reportedly killed based on religious identity, Baba Bageshwar said:

“They [terrorists] asked for religion before killing. They wiped the sindoor (vermilion) from the foreheads of our mothers and sisters. But our brave soldiers responded by entering Pakistan and eliminating the enemies.”

He applauded the Indian Army’s precision strikes, hinting at operations like Operation Sindoor, and reiterated his belief in a strong and assertive national defense policy.

Satirical Swipe at China-Pakistan Relations

In a lighter yet politically charged remark, Baba Bageshwar mocked Pakistan’s defense acquisitions from China:

“People in India don’t use Chinese mobile chargers, but Pakistan bought missiles from China. And we all saw the results,” he said, drawing laughter and applause from the audience.

The comment subtly referenced failed missile tests and defense mishaps, often attributed to low-quality military imports by Pakistan.

Spiritual Message: ‘Durbar Is Just a Medium to Connect with Lord Hanuman’

Baba Bageshwar conducted a brief spiritual durbar, where he individually listened to 12 selected devotees’ appeals and offered blessings. He emphasized that the real purpose of the gathering was to connect people with Lord Hanuman, not just to run a ritual.

“This durbar is just a way to bring people closer to Balaji. May every prayer reach Him,” he said.

The large audience included families, elderly followers, and youth, highlighting his cross-generational appeal in the Hindi-speaking belt.

Commentary on Caste Census: ‘More Important to Count the Poor’

Addressing the issue of caste-based census, which has been a hot topic in Indian politics, Dhirendra Shastri provided a nuanced view:

“Caste census is fine. But more important is an economic census — to identify the poor. Only when the marginalized are uplifted will the nation develop.”

He questioned the overemphasis on caste and identity politics, stating that true justice lies in reducing the gap between the rich and the poor.

“A shoulder has no chest, and no caste is above religion,” he added, suggesting that faith and humanity must prevail over divisive identities.

Supporters Gather from Bihar and Beyond

Thousands gathered at the event from across Bihar and neighboring states, with significant representation from Nepal as well. The crowd size underscored Baba’s growing popularity, especially among traditional and nationalist communities.

The gathering was managed by local spiritual committees, and despite delays in the schedule, the attendees waited patiently for his arrival.

Cultural and Political Undertones

While primarily a spiritual discourse, Baba Bageshwar’s event carried clear socio-political undertones — from nationalism and security to social justice and economic reform.

His call for India as a Hindu Rashtra, though not new, echoed sentiments gaining traction in certain parts of the country. However, he framed it within the spiritual ethos rather than political activism.

Dhirendra Shastri: Rise of a Religious Influencer

Dhirendra Shastri has emerged as one of India’s most prominent young spiritual leaders, combining traditional storytelling with commentary on contemporary issues. His sessions are known to draw crowds in lakhs, and his social media presence has amplified his voice among the youth.

Critics often question his political affiliations and influence, while supporters view him as a spiritual reformer who dares to speak uncomfortable truths.

Baba Bageshwar’s address in Muzaffarpur was more than a religious event. It reflected the intersections of faith, nationalism, and socio-economic discourse in modern India. From invoking Lord Hanuman to defending national honor and calling for economic equality, his words resonated with a diverse crowd.

As he left with a promise to return, the message was clear: faith must not only heal the soul but also uplift society and defend the nation.