Tirupati Laddu Row: What Is Varahi Declaration, Pawan Kalyan’s 'Mission' To 'Protect' Sanatana Dharma

Pawan Kalyan further advocated for the need for nationwide legislation to safeguard Sanatana Dharma calling for the establishment of well-funded national and state boards dedicated to its protection.

Pawan Kalyan unveiled the Varahi Declaration on October 3 after performing rituals at Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala.

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In a declaration at Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has once again positioned himself as a staunch advocate for Sanatana Dharma. Addressing the gathering, the Janasena Party leader slammed "pseudo-secular" critics and declared himself an "unapologetic Sanatani Hindu." 

His speech came amidst rising controversies surrounding the Sanatana Dharma debate with Kalyan making a direct reference to remarks by Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. "Don't compare Sanatana Dharma to a virus," he said. " You can not wipe out Sanatana Dharma. If anyone tries to wipe out Santana Dharma let me tell you from the feet of Lord Balaji you will be wiped out." 

Kalyan further advocated for the need for nationwide legislation to safeguard Sanatana Dharma, calling for the establishment of well-funded national and state boards dedicated to its protection.

What is Varahi Declaration?

Pawan Kalyan unveiled the Varahi Declaration on October 3 after performing rituals at the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala. The ceremony was significant, coming in the wake of the ghee adulteration controversy and was seen as a symbolic cleansing of the temple's desecration. Following the prayers, Kalyan addressed a massive crowd at Jyotirao Phule Circle in Tirupati from his iconic ‘Varahi’ campaign vehicle.

The Varahi Declaration, according to the Andhra Deputy CM, is not just a political movement but a mission aimed at defending the cultural and religious heritage of Andhra Pradesh. "About 14 months back, when VARAHI first hit the roads, it was more than just a movement, it was a call to action," Kalyan declared.

"Varahi is not just a yatra, it represents the spirit of our culture and the unwavering commitment to protect our state.Now, VARAHI returns for a much bigger mission. The mission is to echo the voice of millions who wish to bring “*Sanatana Dharma Raksha Board”* to life," he said. 

Key Proposals of Varahi Declaration

The Varahi Declaration outlines several key points aimed at protecting Sanatana Dharma:

• The document stresses that secularism should be applied uniformly to ensure equal protection for all religions.
• A call for a national act that specifically defends Sanatana Dharma against actions or statements that harm its core beliefs. This legislation would ensure uniform enforcement throughout India.
• The creation of Sanatana Dharma Protection Boards at both the national and state levels responsible for the implementation of this act and safeguarding the faith's interests.
• Annual budgets should be allocated to support these boards and their activities, ensuring that they have the resources to function effectively.
• The declaration advocates for disengaging with individuals or groups that promote hatred or defame Sanatana Dharma.
• A Sanatana Dharma Certification would be introduced to ensure the purity and authenticity of materials used in temple rituals, such as offerings and prasadam.

Finally, Kalyan's vision extends beyond religious protection—he envisions temples evolving into centers of art, education, economy, and environmental conservation, playing a key role in the broader cultural and social welfare of society.