The much-anticipated program of Bageshwar Dham Peethadheeshwar Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has encountered a surprising halt as the Bihar administration has denied permission for his event at Gandhi Maidan, Patna. Despite a groundswell of public enthusiasm and spiritual anticipation, authorities have cited concerns over crowd control and law and order as the decisive reasons behind the restriction.
This decision comes even as Patna gears up for a massive religious congregation on July 6, 2025, featuring prominent Hindu saints and religious leaders, including Jagadguru Rambhadracharya and other revered figures.
Why Was Dhirendra Shastri’s Program Blocked?
The refusal by the Patna administration to permit the event stems from past experiences with uncontrollable gatherings. Officials referenced the Naubatpur incident, where an overwhelming crowd at Dhirendra Shastri’s court pushed security systems to their limits. Emergency responses were activated, and the situation tested the capacity of local law enforcement.
Despite the rejection, there is ongoing consideration. Sources from within the administration indicate that a special task force of officials may soon be formed to assess the feasibility of the program. The team will evaluate the city’s preparedness, infrastructure for crowd regulation, and possible security protocols before issuing a final verdict.
Dhirendra Shastri’s Deep Connection with Bihar
Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri is no stranger to Bihar. He has visited the state four times, always greeted by throngs of devotees and religious followers. On one occasion in Gopalganj, he emotionally declared, “I am also a Bihari,” and sang the iconic anthem ‘Jiya Ho Bihar Ke Lala’ after tying a traditional murhetha on his head.
For Shastri, Bihar represents not just a venue but an emotional and spiritual homeland. His bond with the state has been nurtured over years through participation in grand religious gatherings, his distinct storytelling style, and his vocal support for Sanatan Dharma.
Massive Saint Gathering Scheduled in Patna
Even with the uncertainty surrounding Dhirendra Shastri’s participation, July 6 will see Patna transformed into a hub of spiritual activity. Jagadguru Rambhadracharya, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri, and other high-profile saints are expected to convene in Gandhi Maidan, addressing thousands of followers on issues ranging from religious unity to caste discrimination and conversion controversies.
This gathering is being projected as a symbolic resistance to modern-day social evils and a spiritual awakening movement rooted in the revival of traditional values.
Religious Conversions Under Scrutiny
In a hard-hitting statement, Swami Kailashanand Giri of the Niranjani Akhara voiced firm opposition to forced religious conversions, especially in states like Chhattisgarh, which he described as deeply rooted in Sanatan Dharma. He emphasized that “conversion by force is a sin”, and urged governments to enact stringent measures against such activities.
Giri further noted that spiritual leaders are actively working to curb these practices. His assertion that “Sanatan is the only caste I believe in” struck a chord with the gathering of sadhus and emphasized a unifying vision of Hinduism beyond caste lines.
Call for Caste Unity Among Devotees
Swami Kailashanand addressed recent caste-based discrimination against a storyteller in Uttar Pradesh, urging people to transcend caste divisions in religious contexts. He passionately stated that all castes originate from Lord Vishnu, and hence, every individual is part of the same divine family.
His words underscore the larger inclusive philosophy being propagated by saints across India—that religion must rise above man-made boundaries and unite communities under a shared spiritual heritage.
Controversial ‘Fake Babas’ Under Fire
Strong condemnation was also issued against self-styled godmen like Asaram, Ram Rahim, and others who have been implicated in criminal activities. Swami Kailashanand clarified that none of these individuals are connected to any established akhara, and reiterated that “those who are not part of a spiritual lineage should not be called sadhus.”
He revealed that the Niranjani Akhara, one of India’s largest and most disciplined religious institutions, maintains strict codes of conduct. Even minor infractions can lead to expulsion, maintaining the purity and sanctity of the akhara tradition.
Gang Rape Cases Spark Outrage Among Saints
In response to the recent gang rape case in Kolkata, Swami Kailashanand demanded swift and impartial justice, emphasizing that no criminal should be spared—regardless of religion. He called upon governments across states to ensure zero tolerance policies against crimes involving women.
This marks an important shift where spiritual leaders are stepping into social commentary, advocating justice and protection beyond just spiritual matters.
Pending Permission and Possible Outcomes
Despite the administration’s firm stance, backchannel efforts are reportedly ongoing. Local organizers are in touch with Patna’s municipal authorities, and influential saints are believed to be engaging in dialogue with government representatives.
If the proposed official task force gives a favorable report, conditional approval may be granted. However, this would require the event organizers to commit to enhanced crowd control mechanisms, deployment of security personnel, and clear evacuation plans to avoid another Naubatpur-like episode.
Bihar’s Religious Landscape in Focus
Bihar has long been a cradle of spiritual traditions, from ancient Buddhist centers like Nalanda and Bodh Gaya to contemporary Hindu spiritual leaders who continue to gather massive audiences. The controversy over Dhirendra Shastri’s denied permission has once again thrust the state into national headlines.
With growing concerns over religious conversions, caste discrimination, and moral policing in the name of religion, Bihar is at a crossroads. Saints like Shastri, Rambhadracharya, and Kailashanand are using their platforms to spark public debate, spread awareness, and reinvigorate faith rooted in timeless values.
What Lies Ahead for Devotees and Organizers?
Whether or not permission is granted in the coming days, one thing is certain: the spiritual fervor among Bihar’s devotees remains unshaken. The anticipation for the July 6 Patna Mahasammelan is surging. From Muzaffarpur to Gaya, from Gopalganj to Naubatpur, followers are mobilizing, prepared to travel, pray, and stand in solidarity with their spiritual icons.
For now, the spotlight remains fixed on the Patna administration, whose upcoming decision will likely determine the future of public spiritual gatherings in the region. With emotions running high and faith stronger than ever, the coming days will reveal whether spirituality can find a peaceful stage amidst bureaucratic caution.
