Ramabhadra Acharya Criticizes Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati for Ritual Violation

Chitrakoot: Jagadguru Ramabhadra Acharya has criticized Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati for attempting to take a ritual bath while seated on a chariot during the Magh Mela, calling it contrary to the scriptures.

Speaking on the controversy, Acharya emphasized that adherence to tradition and scriptural injunctions is paramount in religious practice. “Anyone who acts against the scriptures must face the consequences. Such a person will gain neither happiness, peace, nor spiritual progress,” he said.

Personal Example
Ramabhadra Acharya cited his own conduct and that of his followers as an example, explaining that they always travel on foot to perform ritual baths, in accordance with scriptural guidance.

Controversy During Mouni Amavasya Bath
The issue arose during the Mouni Amavasya ritual bath at the Magh Mela in Prayagraj, where a dispute between Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati and local authorities led to a scuffle involving the Shankaracharya’s followers. Frustrated, the Shankaracharya returned without taking the bath and staged a sit-in protest, escalating the controversy.