Controversy Erupts Over Firecracker Ban, Bageshwar Baba Calls It 'Misfortune' for Hindu Festivals

In response to the controversy surrounding the firecracker ban during Diwali, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri of Bageshwar Dham expressed his concerns, stating that it is a misfortune for the country that conspiracies arise whenever Hindu festivals are celebrated. He emphasized that there is often scrutiny directed towards Hindu celebrations like Holi and Diwali, while similar questions are rarely posed during other religious festivities, such as Bakrid. Bageshwar Baba further lamented that every time a festival related to Sanatan Hinduism approaches, discussions about legal violations emerge, often leading to demands for restrictions. He criticized the selective nature of these discussions, highlighting the inconsistency in the application of laws concerning different religious observances. He pointed out that the lighting of oil lamps during Diwali could bring about significant benefits for the poor, questioning why such contributions to welfare are overlooked when discussing the environmental impact of celebrations. Shastri's remarks underline a broader sentiment regarding the perception of Hindu festivals and the legal restrictions imposed on them.