Vadtal Swami’s Remarks on Jalaram Bapa Spark Controversy

Surat : Swami Gyan Prakash of the Vadtal Swaminarayan Sampradaya is presently at the center of a significant controversy.  His provocative comments regarding Jalaram Bapa during a satsang in Amroli, Surat have sparked significant backlash within the Raghuvanshi community.  In the wake of this incident, many individuals are voicing their intense responses.  In light of the growing controversy, Gyan Prakash Swami has issued an apology and removed the contentious video.

During the satsang, Gyanprakash Swami, affiliated with the Vadtal sect, remarked on the connection between the history of Jalaram Bapa and Gunatit Swami.  “Jala Bhagat received blessings from Gunatit Swami,” stated Gyanprakash Swami.  He went on to say, “Jalaram Bapa requested blessings from Gunatit Swami for the Sadavrat, expressing, ‘Swami, my sole aim or wish is that the Sadavrat should persist here eternally and that everyone who visits should receive prasad.'”

He mentioned, “Jala Bhagat provided Gunatit Swami with dal and rice… Gunatit Swami bestowed a blessing upon Jala Bhagat, assuring that his storehouse would always be full.”  This statement has deeply affected the hearts of the devotees of Jalaram Bapa.

Gyan Prakash Swami’s remarks regarding Jalaram Bapa have sparked significant controversy.  Raghuvanshi Samaj has voiced strong discontent towards Gyan Prakash Swami.  Widespread demonstrations and outrage have erupted following the viral video of the satsang.

Gyan Prakash Swami issues an apology and removes the video amid growing controversy.

 In light of the escalating controversy, Gyan Prakash Swami has issued an apology through a video released in Surat.  In the video, he stated, “Sat-sat vandanam at the feet of Sant Shiromani Jalaram Bapa.”  I am also sharing my perspective.  Not long ago, I came across an incident in a book.  I came across the same incident in a magazine as well.  I believe that Jalaram Bapa has been portrayed positively in this.  He further stated, “I discussed the contributions of Jalaram Bapa in Ayodhya and the narratives surrounding the food offered to the almighty.”  Nonetheless, I extend my heartfelt apologies to any society or individual who may have found my words to be hurtful.  He added, “This video has been taken down without delay.”

Outrage has surged among the residents of Virpur Jalaram following the contentious statements made by Surat’s Gyan Prakash Swami regarding Jalaram Bapa.  The statement made by the Swami has drawn strong condemnation from the business leaders and Sarpanch of Virpur.  Everyone expressed a unified stance that such remarks are unacceptable. 

If the Swami possesses any related literature, it would be beneficial for him to bring it to Virpur.  The remarks from Gyan Prakash Swami could potentially serve to promote his faith.  Calls have emerged for him to retract the statement and for Virpur to issue an apology.  The Sarpanch of Virpur announced that a meeting has been scheduled for tomorrow to determine the upcoming strategy.