Ayodhya’s spiritual vanguard has thrown its weight behind Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand amid the brewing storm over his January 3 altercation with Prayagraj Magh Mela officials. Condemning the episode, temple heads are appealing directly to CM Yogi Adityanath for a transparent probe to uncover the truth.
Acharya Amit Das Maharaj from Siddh Peeth Hanumangarhi was forthright: ‘This mistreatment of a Jagadguru is indefensible. Fabricated accusations sought to besmirch the CM’s name. Violating the shikha—our eternal symbol in Sanatan Dharma—demands retribution.’ He stressed the need for CM-led impartiality.
Joining him, Deveshcharya Maharaj decried the affront to the mela’s holy spirit. ‘This festival thrives on saints’ grace; such indignities are a tragedy,’ he noted. ‘Demanding credentials from a Shankaracharya is conspiracy-laden, besmirching governmental credibility. Punish the culprits, honor the shikha’s sanctity.’
Acharya Narayan Mishra acknowledged state provisions for pilgrims but highlighted agitators. ‘Holy dips are a right for all leaders. Yogi ji’s devotion to saints is well-known, but plotters aim to undermine,’ he said.
As voices amplify, the incident tests the delicate balance between tradition and authority, with Ayodhya’s call for justice resonating across the faithful.