Hathras Stampede — Who Is 'Bhole Baba', Whose Satsang Led To Chaos? Here's What We Know

Sant Narayan Saakar Hari is a renowned saint in Western Uttar Pradesh. Wearing a white suit and tie, he imparts spiritual knowledge to devotees encouraging them to rise above materialism.

Here's what we know about 'Bhole Baba', whose satsang led to chaos in Uttar Pradesh's Eta. (Image Source: ABP News/File Photo)

Hathras Stampede: At least 100 people were killed on Tuesday when a stampede occured during a satsang on the Hathras-Eta border in Uttar Pradesh. According to the initial reports, the Satsang was led by Sant Bhole Baba. A large number of people had gathered in Ratibhanpur, near the Hathras-Eta border, to listen to his discourse. The stampede occurred due to severe humidity and heat in the pandal. 

Among the deceased were 25 women and two children, and the death toll could rise. Many women, elderly people, and children were injured, with several reported to be in serious condition. The CMO of Eta confirmed the deaths of 25 women and two children due to the stampede. Later the administrative officials of the area stated that the death toll has reached over 50, and the toll is likely to rise. 

Who Is Narayan Saakar Hari A.K.A Bhole Baba?

Sant Narayan Saakar Hari is a renowned saint in Western Uttar Pradesh. Wearing a white suit and tie, he imparts spiritual knowledge to devotees encouraging them to rise above materialism and embrace devotion to God, as per the information available with ABP News. 

As per reports, he also worked in the government's secret service department in Bahadur Nagar, Etah district, but resigned in 1990 to pursue spirituality. During Covid-19 pandemic, he gained prominence for conducting satsangs and participating in discussions with his wife on stage. 

An inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident. Reports mentioned that Narayan Hari also has political connections. Several prominent leaders from Uttar Pradesh have been seen on his platform on several occasions. This includes the National President of the Samajwadi Party, Akhilesh Yadav, an ABP News report said. 

For the investigation of this incident, a committee has been formed under the leadership of ADG Agra and Commissioner Aligarh, The CM's office stated that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the grieving families of the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He directed district officials to immediately transport the injured to hospitals for appropriate treatment and expedite relief efforts at the scene. Click here for more updates. 

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