Dwarka: The temple town Dwarka witnessed a massive protest today against controversial remarks made by a Swaminarayan saint, questioning the presence of Lord Dwarkadhish in Dwarka. The priests of the Dwarkadhish Jagat Mandir, the entire Googli Brahmin community, and various Hindu organizations organized a large rally. The protest march began at the Dwarkadhish temple and proceeded to the SDM office, with participants chanting slogans under tight police security.

The controversy stems from the book Shreeji Sankalpamurti Sadguru Gopalanand Swamini Vato, which recounts a conversation where a devotee asks about experiencing the divine presence in Dwarka. In response, Sadguru Gopalanand Swami says, “How can God be in Dwarka now? If you want to see God in real, go to Vadtal; there, Bhagwan Swaminarayan will fulfill your wishes.” Additionally, the saint allegedly made indecent remarks about the Googli Brahmins, who serve and worship at the Jagat Mandir. These statements have triggered widespread outrage.

In a meeting held at Brahmapuri, protesters demanded the removal of the controversial saints from the sect. They also called for the destruction of books containing objectionable writings about Hindu gods and goddesses.

Organizations including Bhudev, Brahm Samaj, Ahir Sena, and Hindu Sena participated in the rally. After offering prayers at the Jagat Mandir, the protestors marched through the main roads, chanting slogans against the Swaminarayan Mandir.

Brahmachari Nayanayanand Ji Maharaj told the media, “A saint of the Swaminarayan sect has denied the existence of Bhagwan Dwarkadhish, which is utterly wrong. If you are making such statements just for publicity on social media, you are making a grave mistake. The leaders of this country must now take note that the Swaminarayan sect is repeatedly creating controversies. Their swamis and elders should hold discussions and retract the writings that disrespect the gods and goddesses of Sanatan Dharma.”

Kapilbhai Vayada, Secretary of the Googli Brahmin community, said, “The monks of the Swaminarayan sect have made such remarks in Chapter 33 of the book Shreeji Sankalpamurti about Bhagwan Dwarkadhish and the Googli Brahmins. Such statements are inappropriate and do not suit their stature.” DeshGujarat

A petition has been submitted to the provincial officer, urging Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi to take action. The Googli Brahmin Yuva Team has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to those who made the controversial remarks. DeshGujarat