A video of a debate between Akhilesh Yadav and Katha Vachak (religious storyteller) Aniruddhacharya regarding the word 'Shudra' has gone viral, sparking a new debate on casteism and the Varna system.
lucknow: Social media is buzzing again, but this time the issue isn't just politics, but social consciousness and the Varna system. A video of a debate between Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav and the renowned Katha Vachak Aniruddhacharya regarding the word 'Shudra' has now gone viral. Although the video is from 2023, the way it has resurfaced has created a stir in both political and religious circles.
What is the truth behind the viral video?
The video captures a brief conversation that took place in public, where Akhilesh Yadav and Aniruddhacharya encountered each other. During the conversation, when Katha Vachak Aniruddhacharya mentioned the Varna system and used the word 'Shudra', Akhilesh Yadav immediately interrupted him and plainly stated – "Don't call anyone a Shudra again." This statement not only made Aniruddhacharya uncomfortable, but also ignited a new debate on social media. The debate was so intense that Akhilesh Yadav even said at the end of the conversation – "This is where our paths diverge."
Political background and the mention of PDA
Akhilesh Yadav's statement came at a time when he was bly promoting the ideology of his PDA (Pichhada, Dalit, Alpsankhyak - Backward, Dalit, Minority) alliance. In 2023, the issue of social justice was at its peak in the country's politics, and Akhilesh Yadav was continuously talking about the rights of the backward classes. In such a situation, when a Katha Vachak supported the Varna system, it was natural for Akhilesh to object.
Who is Aniruddhacharya?
Aniruddhacharya, also known as 'Puki Baba', is famous for his style in religious stories and the interpretation of texts like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He often supports the Varna system in his discourses, which describes the classification of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. But this classification has become a politically and socially sensitive issue in today's time. And when he repeated the same thing in front of Akhilesh Yadav, the matter escalated.
SP supporters' claim – 'Shut him up'
Samajwadi Party supporters are enthusiastically sharing this video on social media. They say that Akhilesh Yadav 'shut up' the Katha Vachak by explaining the true meaning of the scriptures. Some supporters said that they need leaders who talk about respect and equality in society, and not those who support the age-old caste system.
Opponents' reaction
On the other hand, religious organizations and some right-wing leaders have called this video a symbol of Akhilesh Yadav's "anti-religious thinking." They say that the scriptures describe the Varna system, and denying it is an insult to religious values. Some have also alleged that Akhilesh Yadav is deliberately targeting religious leaders to strengthen his vote bank.
The incident in Etawah increased sensitivity
An old incident in Etawah has made this issue even more sensitive, where a Katha Vachak of the Yadav caste and his Dalit associates were subjected to humiliating behavior. After this, Akhilesh Yadav directly attacked Bageshwar Baba and many other prominent Katha Vachaks and said that 'the promotion of caste in the name of religion will not be tolerated anymore.'
Caste versus Religion – The beginning of a new debate
This video once again raises the question of whether the interpretation of religion and caste in today's India should be based on old books, or whether humanity and equality should be given priority according to the changing times? Akhilesh Yadav's statement is being considered a message of 'social equality', while some people are also calling it a 'hit on religious sentiments'.
