Harsha Richhariya counters critics in renunciation controversy:Cites examples of Meera, Buddha and Sita, says destiny written by Ram

Amid the ongoing controversy over her renunciation in Ujjain, Swami Harshanand Giri has released a video on social media responding to allegations made by seers. She said she has endured humiliation for the past one and a half years and has now become mentally stronger. Calling it her path of faith, she stated that if Lord Ram has destined renunciation for her, no one can stop it. It is worth noting that Harsha Richhariya , who came into the spotlight during Mahakumbh 2024, has recently taken formal renunciation and will now be known as Swami Harshanand Giri. She was initiated at Mauni Teerth Ashram by Mahamandaleshwar Sumananand Ji Maharaj. However, her renunciation has been opposed by Maharaj Anilanand. Cites Meera, Jesus and Buddha In the video, she said history shows that those who choose truth and their path of duty often face opposition and humiliation. She cited examples of Meera, Jesus, Gautama Buddha, Lord Ram and Sita, saying that in every era, those walking the path of truth have faced trials, especially women. “I have been tested for 1.5 years” She said questions are being raised over her renunciation, but she has been undergoing mental and social trials for a long time. “I have been swallowing humiliation for the past one and a half years; now I have become strong,” she said. Transformation is always possible, Valmiki is an example of this Harsha also questioned the saints’ argument that sannyasa is adopted from childhood itself. She said that in Sanatan Dharma itself, there are examples like Maharishi Valmiki, where a person can transform at any point in life. If transformation is not possible, then why are such examples cited. Change is always possible Responding to claims that renunciation must be adopted from childhood, she cited the example of Valmiki, saying Sanatan Dharma itself shows that transformation can happen at any stage of life. “I was deliberately targeted” She alleged that some people were targeting her only for publicity. “You needed an issue to go viral, and you made me your target,” she said. She also expressed displeasure over the language used by some seers, saying such words against a woman go against the dignity of saints. Appeal to connect youth with religion She urged the saint community to connect youth with religion rather than push them away, saying such controversies could alienate young people. She concluded by saying her path is decided by God and she needs no one’s approval, ending her message with a line invoking faith in divine will.