In a recent move, the Sanatan Rakshak Dal has initiated the removal of Sai Baba idols from various temples in Varanasi, with plans to remove idols from the Bhooteshwar and Agasteshwar Temples in the coming days. Ajay Sharma, the chief of the Sanatan Rakshak Dal, stated that Sai Baba’s disciples can worship him only in temples dedicated specifically to him. He expressed concern that some individuals, lacking knowledge of Sanatan Dharma, had installed Sai Baba idols in other temples.
Sharma emphasized that the installation of idols representing deceased individuals is not permitted in Sanatan Dharma, asserting that only the idols of five deities—Surya, Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, and Ganesha—are allowed to be worshipped in temples. His comments reflect a broader sentiment among certain Hindu nationalist groups who argue that Sai Baba, revered by many, does not belong in temples dedicated to traditional Hindu deities.
This controversy is not isolated, as it resonates with statements from other prominent figures. The Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopananda Sarswati has also opposed the worship of Sai Baba, asserting that there is no mention of him in ancient scriptures. Similarly, Acharya Dheerendra Shastri of Bageshwar Dham has remarked that while Sai Baba can be regarded as a ‘Mahatma,’ he should not be worshipped as a god.
The removal of Sai Baba idols has sparked political controversy as well. Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and member of the UP Legislative Council, Ashutosh Sinha, criticized the action, labeling it a “political stunt” by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He highlighted the respect that Sai Baba commands, especially in Maharashtra, and underscored the inclusive nature of Hinduism, which has historically embraced diverse beliefs and practices.
As this situation unfolds, it continues to raise questions about religious practices, inclusivity, and the intersection of faith and politics in India.
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