Dhirendra Shastri to lead Sanatan Hindu Unity Padyatra:Highlights need for Hindu unity against caste, regional foreign-driven divisions

Bageshwar Dham’s Peethadheeshwar, Pt. Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, will lead a ‘Sanatan Hindu Unity Padyatra’ from Delhi to Vrindavan from November 7 to 16 . The procession will pass through Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. For the first time in his journeys, members of the Muslim community will also take part. He stated that the padyatra aims to promote unity and awareness among Hindus and is not linked to any political protest or demand. He also expressed concern that individuals might disguise themselves as pilgrims to cause disruption. Dainik Bhaskar had a special conversation with Pt. Shastri about the purpose of the journey at Bageshwar Dham, security arrangements, participation of other communities, and his personal discipline during the journey. Read the full conversation… Q1: What is special about this second padyatra? Dhirendra Shastri: The journey will pass through Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, promoting unity between Balaji and Banke Bihari. Amid rising caste and regional divisions among Hindus, the aim is to maintain Hindu unity without government demands or political protests. The padyatra, from 7 to 16 November, will include saints from across India, the Kamandal of Bageshwar Dham, and the Sunderkand Mandal. Q2: What security measures are in place? Dhirendra Shastri: We rely on God and Hindu devotees for protection. However, there is concern that individuals may disguise themselves as pilgrims to create trouble or defame the yatra. We urge both the administration and participants to remain vigilant. Q3: Will people from other communities join the journey? Dhirendra Shastri: Yes, it is encouraging that people from other religions are supporting this journey for Hindu unity. Those aligned with Hindutva are with us, while those seeking to create division oppose us. Q4: What will the food and daily routine be like? Dhirendra Shastri: (laughing) We will eat sattvic food, accepting prasad offered by devotees. With only about three hours of sleep each night and continuous walking for ten days, fasting isn’t practical. The journey itself serves as a penance, considering age and health. Q5: Will leaders from parties like SP and AAP join the journey? Dhirendra Shastri: We have invited everyone. No party matters to us specifically. Since all parties have Hindu members, our focus is on the welfare of all Hindus, irrespective of political affiliation. Q6: Is there a special date for people from Bundelkhand? Dhirendra Shastri: People from Bundelkhand are invited to join, especially on 15 and 16 November from Chhatarpur district. Those unable to attend can support from home. This is a fight against divisions created by external forces, and every Hindu should respond. Q7: Muslim community support—what can you say? Dhirendra Shastri: For the first time, about 300 Muslims, led by Faiz Khan, will join the padyatra. In a recent Delhi meeting, they pledged their support, recognising that the journey promotes unity and committing to walk alongside us. Appealed to maintain dignity and peace Dhirendra Shastri has requested the pilgrims to participate in the journey with complete dignity. Do not comment on any particular caste, sect or community. The use of weapons will be completely prohibited. He said that the administration has been requested to provide special security for the pilgrimage route and other religious places so that no conspiracy can take place. Journey’s echo will reach 5 crore people Baba Bageshwar said that this journey carries the message of eliminating casteism, regionalism and linguism. This journey will reach 422 gram panchayats, towns and cities of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. It is estimated that its message will reach about 5 crore people.