NEW DELHI — A controversy surrounding religious preacher Dhirendra Shastri's comparisons of Hindu deities has taken a political turn, with opposition leaders joining the criticism.
The row originated during a Shri Ram Katha programme in Karera, Madhya Pradesh on October 29, where Shastri compared the physical postures and attributes of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. Shastri described Lord Krishna's Tribhangi posture — in which the body is bent at three places while playing the flute — as "crooked" and contrasted it with Lord Ram, whom he described as standing straight. He also stated that playing the flute was something ordinary musicians could do, whereas shooting arrows with a bow was no ordinary accomplishment.
Shastri further compared the sacred cities of Ayodhya and Vrindavan, associating Ayodhya with straightness and Vrindavan with crookedness. The remarks, made while addressing devotees including members of the Yadav community, drew sharp criticism from Lord Krishna followers.
Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel entered the debate with a sarcastic social media post suggesting Shastri undergo a rabies test, calling him a "so-called religious preacher" who makes fun of deities. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has since joined the demand for a rabies test.
The controversy has sparked debate about remarks on Hindu deities and the response of those who claim to be their protectors. Short clips of the discourse circulated widely on social media, drawing criticism from Krishna devotees and prompting political reactions from across the spectrum.
