'Those Who Reject Vedas Will Become Muslims', Claims Bageshwar Dham's Dhirendra Shastri

Jaipur: Bageshwar Dham's head priest, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, has stirred fresh controversy with a statement on religious faith and culture.

Speaking at an event in Jaipur on Wednesday, Shastri said people who do not accept the Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures, risk losing touch with their spiritual roots. He warned that those who turn away from Vedic belief could see their descendants adopt different identities.

What did Shastri say?

Shastri, a well-known religious figure based in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, said he intends to open a gurukul at Bageshwar Dham where children will learn Vedas, Puranas and other scriptures.

"Food lasts for a day, water lasts for an hour, but knowledge stays with you for the whole life. In future, those who don't believe in 'Vedas' will become Naved and Javed. Therefore, we will set up a Gurukul at Bageshwar Dham to promote the tradition of 'Vedas'," he told supporters, adding that preserving Hindu tradition is vital in a changing society.

Is this part of a wider agenda?

Shastri's remarks come amid broader efforts by his trust to promote what he calls Sanatan Hindu culture. He said Bageshwar Dham has launched a Sundarkand group, tasked with spreading spiritual teachings across the country. Shastri described this as a way to strengthen cultural bonds among followers.

He also outlined plans for social events through the year, including a large mass wedding programme for girls from economically weaker backgrounds. The initiative, scheduled in February, aims to support families who might otherwise struggle to hold traditional ceremonies, he said.

What reactions are emerging from the statement?

Shastri’s comment about descendants of those who don’t believe in the Vedas has already drawn attention on social media and among political circles. Critics argue that such remarks can deepen societal fault lines and fuel debate on religion and identity. Supporters say his message is about preserving heritage and faith.