Sai Baba Idols Kashi: In an ongoing debate surrounding the worship of Sai Baba has reignited, with several Sai Baba idols being removed from temples in Kashi. This controversy, which has been a point of contention for years, was earlier raised by Shankaracharya Swaroopanand Saraswati and more recently by Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, Dhirendra Shastri, both of whom have opposed the worship of Sai Baba as a deity.In a new development, a Brahmin organization has taken matters into its own hands and has started removing Sai Baba idols from temples across Kashi. The movement began with the removal of the idol from the renowned Bada Ganesh temple in Varanasi. Another Sai Baba idol was taken down from the Purushottam temple located in the Godaulia area of the city. The organization claims that many more temples in Varanasi will follow suit in the coming days.Sai idols removed from 10 templesAjay Sharma, a representative of the Sanatan Rakshak Dal, said that they have so far removed Sai Baba idols from about 10 temples. According to him, many people have been worshipping Sai Baba out of ignorance, and the organization believes that it is now necessary to remove the idols to uphold traditional Hindu values.He explained, We are not against Sai Baba as an individual. However, according to our scriptures, the installation of idols representing deceased humans is prohibited in temples. We believe that only the five deities—Surya, Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, and Ganapati—should be worshipped in Hindu temples.Historical opposition to Sai worshipThis controversy is not new. Shankaracharya Swaroopanand Saraswati had previously opposed the worship of Sai Baba, stating that Sai Baba could not be considered a god. Recently, Dhirendra Shastri of Bageshwar Dham also voiced his objections. He clarified, People think I am against Sai Baba, but thats not the case. Sai Baba can be honored as a Mahatma, but not as God.Idols removed respectfullyIn line with their beliefs, members of the Sanatan Rakshak Dal have been removing Sai Babas idols from temples in Varanasi by wrapping them in cloth, an act they view as respectful. The process started with the Bada Ganesh temple, and other temples are expected to follow.While the debate continues, it has raised questions about the broader issue of idol worship and who is considered a deity within the Hindu religion. For now, the Sanatan Rakshak Dal is adamant that they will continue their efforts to remove Sai Babas idols from more temples in Kashi.
