Baba Bageshwar Dhirendra Shastri stirred political waters in Patna with a bold proclamation that could have far-reaching implications for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. While addressing a massive gathering during his religious program, Shastri declared:
🔴BREAKING | पटना में बाबा बागेश्वर का बड़ा बयान
‘हमारा सपना भगवा-ए-हिंद बनाने का, भारत हिंदू राष्ट्र होगा तो पहला राज्य बिहार होगा.’ #BabaBageshwar | #Patna pic.twitter.com/aJrfCxSrgc
— NDTV India (@ndtvindia) July 6, 2025
“Humara sapna Bhagwa-e-Hind banane ka hai. Bharat Hindu Rashtra banega, aur agar banega toh pehla rajya Bihar hoga.”
The statement instantly went viral on social media and is now at the centre of political discussions, especially in a state like Bihar where religion, caste, and identity politics remain crucial electoral factors.
Religious Message or Political Signal?
Though Dhirendra Shastri, head of Bageshwar Dham, is primarily known for his spiritual sermons and “Divya Darbar,” his open advocacy for a Hindu Rashtra—and specifically choosing Bihar as the symbolic starting point—has sparked speculation about indirect political messaging ahead of the polls.
With Bihar heading for assembly elections by the end of 2025, his statement may polarise public opinion, especially when the state is already witnessing a reshuffling of alliances. Shastri enjoys a large following across North India, including youths and rural believers, making his remarks politically significant.
Political Reactions Likely
While no formal political reaction has come yet from either the ruling Mahagathbandhan or the NDA, both alliances are likely to weigh in. For the BJP, which has long advocated cultural nationalism, such statements may indirectly bolster its narrative. On the other hand, secular parties may accuse Shastri of communalising the atmosphere ahead of elections.
Analysts believe this comment will further intensify debates around religion and nationalism in Bihar’s political discourse.
A Test for Bihar’s Social Fabric?
Bihar has traditionally been known for its composite culture, strong backward-caste movements, and secular coalitions. Dhirendra Shastri’s statement challenges that space, potentially sharpening religious polarisation, especially in urban and semi-urban pockets of the state.
As the state gears up for a politically charged 2025, whether Baba Bageshwar’s remarks mobilise a segment of the electorate or provoke a secular backlash, remains to be seen.
