In a strongly worded eight-page response, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has hit back at the Prayagraj Mela Authority over a controversial notice issued against him. The spiritual leader, through his legal representative, has categorically denied all allegations leveled by the authority and demanded immediate withdrawal of the notice.
The notice, served on Monday, accused the swami of unauthorized use of the Jagadguru Shankaracharya title during religious activities at the ongoing Kumbh Mela. However, the swami’s counsel dismissed these claims as baseless, malicious, and discriminatory, aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
Detailed in 15 points, the rejoinder meticulously outlines the swami’s legitimate appointment as the Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth Jyotirmath. It references the will of the late Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati of Shardamath Dwarka, which paved the way for this succession.
On July 1, 2021, a formal declaration named Swami Avimukteshwaranand as the head of Jyotish Peeth. This was followed by his formal installation on October 12, 2022, through sacred rituals including pattabhishek at Parmahamsi Ganga Ashram, witnessed by millions chanting Vedic mantras.
The response highlights how false narratives questioning his title have created confusion among devotees and officials, leading to severe financial, social, and reputational damage. The swami has urged the authority to retract the notice forthwith, warning of legal action against those responsible for the defamation.
This escalating dispute underscores tensions between religious traditions and administrative oversight at one of India’s largest religious gatherings. As the Kumbh Mela continues, all eyes are on how the authority responds to this robust defense.