Ayodhya saints back Dhirendra Shastri over ‘No Sharma, No Verma’ remark

January 20, 2026

Ayodhya: Saints and seers of Ayodhya on Tuesday rallied behind Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, popularly known as Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, following his recent remark that sparked widespread controversy and intense debate on social media. Shastri had said at a public event, “The day the moon finds a place on the national flag, Hindus will cease to exist,” triggering sharp reactions across social and political circles.

Saints call for unity among Sanatan Dharma followers

Several Hindu saints, speaking to IANS, defended Shastri’s statement, asserting that followers of Sanatan Dharma must remain rooted in their traditions and united, warning that disunity could weaken the community and pose a threat to the nation’s sovereignty.
Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das Ji Maharaj said Shastri’s message was meant for the Hindu community, which, according to him, is increasingly divided. “Brother is turning against brother, and unity is weakening. If Hindus do not awaken, they will scatter and face destruction,” he said, adding that Ayodhya saints support Shastri’s views and urge Sanatanis to remain vigilant against emerging threats.

Warnings over erosion of traditions and national identity

Arya Sant Varun Das Vedanti Ji Maharaj said that while a moon would never appear on the tricolour, people must stay alert to forces that threaten India’s sovereignty.
Mahant Sitaram Das of Saket Bhavan Temple echoed similar sentiments, saying saints possess foresight. “Given how extremist elements are attempting to erase Sanatan culture, the day a moon symbol appears on the tricolour, no Verma, Sharma, Pandit, Thakur, Dalit or OBC will survive,” he claimed. He also referred to alleged persecution of Hindus in neighbouring countries and warned that similar situations could arise in India if vigilance is lost.

References to Partition and demographic concerns

Swami Jitendranand Saraswati, National General Secretary of the All India Saints’ Committee, cited the country’s Partition, stating that religion was its basis and that similar forces continue to operate even today. “Those who challenge the tricolour may not allow India to remain united,” he said, adding that minority rights are often not protected in several Islamic nations.
Sant Deveshacharya Maharaj of Siddhpeeth Hanumangarhi expressed concern over demographic shifts, claiming that if certain communities’ numbers increase further, Hindus could be endangered. He asserted that in the current scenario, Shastri’s remarks were justified and called upon the majority community to unite and remain alert.