“Those Who Create Controversy Are Not True Sanatanis”: Satua Baba’s Remarks Spark Speculation on Swami Avimukteshwaranand

Prayagraj: During the ongoing Magh Mela in Prayagraj, which coincides with the auspicious Basant Panchami bathing festival at Triveni Sangam, a significant number of devotees have gathered to participate in the rituals. Amidst this, tensions surrounding Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati continue to simmer.

In this context, Jagatguru Mahamandaleshwar Santosh Das, popularly known as Satua Baba, made a strong statement addressing those who spread unrest during the inauguration of a four-month-long dhuni (sacred fire) ritual by sadhus. Satua Baba emphasized that individuals should reflect on whether their actions serve the nation or cause harm.

Without directly naming Swami Avimukteshwaranand, Satua Baba stated in a media interaction, “If we are true followers of Lord Shankaracharya, our role is to unite society, not divide it.” He further clarified that the law of the land governs everyone, and any violation will be investigated and addressed accordingly. Commenting on the use of ‘Kalanemi’ and other controversial practices, he remarked that the role of sadhus is to bring people together and that spiritual practitioners should never act as obstacles. He also criticized comparisons between sadhus and Emperor Akbar, calling such views unacceptable.

Emphasis on Unity and Spiritual Significance
Satua Baba highlighted the spiritual significance of the four-month dhuni, explaining that Vaishnav saints and mahants take vows during this period, and their meditation and penance are meant for the welfare of the society. “Their spiritual practices are for the well-being of society, for unity, and to strengthen bonds among people,” he added.

On Basant Panchami, he stressed the importance of uniting communities through prayer and language. “We pray to Maa Saraswati for words that connect society. Those who fail to promote unity should observe the devotion of sages and learn from it. Nature—whether earth, fire, water, air, sun, or sky—does not discriminate; why should we?”

Zero Tolerance for Unrest
Addressing the ongoing tensions in Magh Mela, Satua Baba said, “There is no place for unrest at the Mela. Those who spread discord are not acting righteously. Sanatan Dharma cannot be broken by such efforts. The public recognizes these attempts, and even sadhus understand it.”

He urged spiritual leaders to invest their time in dialogue and spiritual knowledge rather than controversies. “Our saints, sadhus, and mahants should share their experiences for the benefit of society. Those seeking to create unrest must reflect on whether their actions serve India’s interests. We belong to India, the land of Lord Ram and Lord Shiva,” he said.

Reference to Shankaracharya
Satua Baba reminded that Jagatguru Shankaracharya worked to unite India and established four major Peeths (seats of learning). “True followers of Shankaracharya must unite people, not divide them.”

Regarding reported misconduct against sadhus and young devotees, he stated, “India has a rule of law. Any violations will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.”

He also addressed the inappropriate remarks made against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, noting, “Sadhus hold a unique place in India. Comparing them to Mughal rulers is unacceptable and constitutes a disrespect to Sanatan Dharma and the saffron tradition. Such situations must be avoided.”