Shastri, invited by BJP MLA Prakash Dwivedi, said, “India will not become a Hindu nation by abusing Muslims, but by correcting malpractices within our own community. If we speak irresponsibly about others, there could be riots.” He highlighted differences in divorce procedures, noting that while divorce occurs frequently in some communities, Hindu law involves extended legal processes. “Wherever you look, there is divorce. May God protect us. We have nothing to say, otherwise riots may break out,” he added.
During the event, Shastri also emphasized faith and devotion, advising followers to maintain consistency in religious practice. “Our job is to go from door to door, their job is to create obstacles, and God’s job is to take care of everything. If you have faith in God, He will never let your faith break,” he said.
Shastri’s Banda visit included prayers at the Kailasheshwar Mahadev temple alongside MLA Dwivedi and participation in a Sundarkand recitation. Mahant Raju Das of Hanuman Garhi and several public representatives were present. Thousands of devotees attended the gathering, with more than 8,000 reportedly arriving to witness the saintly court organized at the legislator’s residence.
This marks Shastri’s second visit to Banda within ten days. Earlier, from January 16 to 20, he conducted a five-day Hanumant Katha event attended by over one lakh devotees, including prominent political and religious figures such as Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, former MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, and Mahant Raju Das. The event featured devotional activities, including spirit possession ceremonies, where young women swayed to songs, creating a festival-like atmosphere.
Shastri described the previous Katha in Banda as “no less than any Mahakumbh,” praising the blessings of Bajrangbali and noting the devotion of followers who traveled several kilometers for darshan. He highlighted the transformative message of faith and perseverance, remarking that devotees’ dedication would yield long-term spiritual and material benefits.
The priest’s remarks underline a continued focus on internal community reform and caution against public disputes along religious lines, reflecting his emphasis on spiritual discipline and social harmony.
