Spiritual Leader's Shivaji Claim
A significant controversy erupted following statements made by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, also known as Bageshwar Baba, regarding Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Speaking at a public event in Nagpur, attended by prominent figures including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Shastri presented a narrative where Shivaji Maharaj, weary from warfare, sought solace and guidance from Ramdas Swami. According to Shastri's retelling, the Maratha king relinquished his crown, expressing exhaustion and a desire to cease fighting. He portrayed a scene where Shivaji Maharaj declared himself a disciple of Ramdas Swami, who then, in turn, took control of the kingdom and appointed Shivaji Maharaj to manage the administration. This account, suggesting a subservient role for Shivaji Maharaj under Ramdas Swami's spiritual authority, deviated from the widely accepted historical understanding of the Maratha warrior king's leadership and independence. The narrative implied a spiritual overreach, positioning Ramdas Swami as the ultimate decision-maker in state affairs, a portrayal that quickly drew sharp criticism and ignited public outcry across Maharashtra.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Shastri's controversial claims immediately triggered strong condemnations from various political factions within Maharashtra. MPCC chief Harshavardhan Sapkal vehemently denounced the narrative, urging the people of Maharashtra to reject 'hypocritical babas' nurtured by the RSS-BJP who, he claimed, sought to undermine the state's pride. Sapkal specifically criticized the notion of Shivaji Maharaj being exhausted and relinquishing his crown, attributing such narratives to the 'manuvadi ideology' of the RSS-BJP, which he stated has always been challenged by the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj and the Hindavi Swarajya he established. He further alleged that the presence of senior political leaders like Fadnavis and Bhagwat on stage while Shastri made these remarks indicated their tacit approval. Similarly, MLA Rohit Pawar voiced strong disapproval, labelling Shastri a 'fraudster' and expressing dismay that political leaders were present during what he termed an 'insult' to Shivaji Maharaj. Pawar called for Bageshwar Baba to be banned from Maharashtra, warning of consequences if he were allowed entry. The reactions highlighted a deep-seated sentiment of pride in Shivaji Maharaj's legacy and a fierce opposition to any attempt to distort or diminish his historical significance.
Fadnavis's Damage Control
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stepped in to manage the escalating controversy, attempting to douse the flames ignited by both Shastri's remarks and the separate incident involving Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad. In response to Shastri's narrative about Shivaji Maharaj and Ramdas Swami, Fadnavis stated that historical records and available texts do not support such claims. He suggested that 'folk legends' are often created around great personalities, drawing parallels with narratives surrounding the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Fadnavis emphasized that these legends are often born from historical context or prevailing circumstances, but he reiterated that the specific account presented by Shastri lacked historical corroboration. Regarding another controversy, where Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad allegedly threatened a book publisher over the use of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's first name, Fadnavis urged for understanding the context before reacting. He pointed out that the book had been in print for 40 years, questioning the timing of the uproar. While acknowledging that using foul language was inappropriate and indicating that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde would address it, Fadnavis sought to de-escalate the situation by advocating for a more measured approach to such matters, highlighting the universal respect for the Maratha king.
Dhirendra Shastri's Other Remark
Beyond his comments on Shivaji Maharaj, Dhirendra Shastri also made a statement suggesting that citizens should have four children, with one child dedicated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). This remark, made in the presence of Chief Minister Fadnavis and other dignitaries, also drew attention. Fadnavis offered an interpretation of Shastri's statement, suggesting that the underlying intent was to highlight the RSS's role in preserving Hindu and Sanatan culture and providing a sense of new consciousness. He posited that Shastri's suggestion was likely aimed at encouraging greater participation in the RSS, viewing it as an organization that contributes to cultural preservation and national consciousness. Fadnavis’s attempt to contextualize Shastri’s remarks aimed to steer the conversation away from potential misinterpretations and towards a perceived positive intent, aligning with the broader ideological framework that emphasizes cultural continuity and national identity.
