Shastri’s remarks come amid criticism from opposition parties, who often allege that he appears in certain states only during election periods. Rejecting political links, he said, “We are not in favour of any political party, so we have no political opposition. The rest is your perspective.”
When asked about the ongoing controversy in West Bengal over proposals to build a Babri Masjid replica and a Ram Temple, he refused to comment on the political dispute. “These are matters for politicians. We are religious gurus. Ask us about Gita recitation and Ramayana,” he said.
Shastri arrived in Jaipur to attend the wedding of storyteller Indresh Upadhyay. He was accompanied by poet Kumar Vishwas, and both were questioned at the airport about their upcoming visit to Kolkata.
The row in West Bengal began in late 2024 after TMC MLA Humayun Kabir proposed building a small structure named “Babri Masjid,” prompting objections from the BJP. The BJP later announced plans for a Ram Temple in Murshidabad. The dispute escalated when Kabir issued provocative statements in November 2025, warning of consequences if the mosque proposal was opposed.
Meanwhile, Kolkata is preparing for one of its largest religious gatherings. The Sanatan Sanskriti Sansad will host a mass Gita recitation on 7 December 2025 at the Brigade Parade Ground to mark Gita Jayanti. Organisers expect around 2,000 saints and nearly five lakh devotees. Shastri and Yoga Guru Ramdev are scheduled to participate.
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