Dhirendra Shastri reacts to 'I love Muhammad row', says, Hindu khatre mein hai

Spiritual leader and priest Acharya Dhirendra Shastri of Bageshwar Dham responded to the 'I love Muhammad' row, saying that he has "no problem at all" with the slogan, but stressed for "mutual respect" among communities. 

In an interview with ANI, he said, "We supported it. But when I say 'I love Muhammad', you should not have any problem. And, secondly, do not make statements like 'Sar tan se juda'. This is against the law of the country. It is against the Constitution of the country. Look at all our statements so far. We have said only one thing. We do not believe in sword fights. We believe in the battle of ideas." 

Shastri talked about several aspects, including unity, communalism, and the condition of the Hindu community. 

Yet again, he reiterated firmly, "Hindu khatre mein hi hai. (Hindus are indeed in danger)", as he cited instances of alleged atrocities, declining population, and the lack of pride among Hindus in various states of India. Shastri further called Hindus to unite and awaken, stating that only "grassroots connection" build from village to village, street to street can ensure survival and strength. 

He also urged against "caste-based conflicts", saying that all Sanatanis need to remain united, stressing that the real evolution should be ideological, not violent. While speaking in Hindi, he stated, "Taalon ki kranti nahi, vicharon ki kranti honi chahiye." 

Further on his views about radicalism, the self-styled seer shared, "If radicalism does not involve violence against anyone, then it is okay. Radicalism does not mean violence; it means protecting oneself...If in the name of radicalism, you slit throats, destroy temples and mosques, tear down banners of Gods, burn the Ramcharitmanas and Ramayana, slaughter cows, and demand the proof of the existence of Ram, then it is foolishness. This is stupidity. Radicalism means promoting your culture. It is a law of the Constitution that you can freely propagate your culture, your Sanatan." 

Shastri also questioned why Hindu festivals are targeted and criticized for pollution and celebration. He said, "When fireworks are used for cricket wins, political victories, or Christmas, no one objects. But why lecture only on Hindu festivals? If you want to stop fireworks, stop them everywhere, for everyone." 

In the interview, Shastri announced a 10-day Padyatra from Delhi to Vrindavan, which will begin on November 7, aiming to promote Hindus, Hindutva, and Hindustan, as he rejected casteism and fostered unity.

At the same time, he clarified that the initiative was not directed against Muslims or Christians, and was all-inclusive. Adding, "We want no poison to spread in the name of casteism...We want Hindus, Hindutva, and Hindustan to be celebrated in this country. We are not against Muslims or Christians."