Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, widely known as Bageshwar Dham Baba, has landed in controversy once again, but this time, it’s not for his sermons. The spiritual leader is under fire after photos emerged showing him aboard a cruise and airplane wearing designer sunglasses and an expensive-looking jacket during his ongoing Australia tour.
The images quickly went viral, coming just days after a devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad that claimed over 274 lives. Social media users criticized the seer for flaunting luxury during a time of national mourning, accusing him of straying from his once-simple image.
Shastri, originally from Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, responded to the backlash during an event in Fiji. He clarified that the jacket and sunglasses were not self-purchased but were gifted by devotees. “If someone has a problem with my glasses and jacket, let me tell you, they were given to me by my followers,” he said.
He further added that the donations received through his Katha programs go toward welfare projects, not personal indulgence. “We’re building a cancer hospital and helping poor girls. The Dakshina is used for such causes,” he said, urging critics to stop spreading “baseless negativity.”
While his followers defend him, stating the trolling is rooted in jealousy, others insist spiritual leaders should maintain public sensitivity, especially during times of national grief.
