UDUPI: A major controversy has erupted at the historic Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt after a Harikatha performance by a group of girls reportedly included disrespectful and objectionable remarks targeting Adi Shankaracharya. The performance, which took place in the Rajangana (royal courtyard) of the temple complex, has drawn sharp criticism from the followers of Shankaracharya and various Hindu outfits who demanded an immediate and unconditional public apology.

The issue started when video clips of the Harikatha performance began circulating extensively on social media platforms. Critics and viewers pointed out that during the narration of the life and spiritual philosophy of Dvaita exponent Sri Madhvacharya, the young performers allegedly presented unverified stories and derogatory statements regarding Advaita philosopher Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya.

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Following the massive backlash, the lead Harikatha artist released a video message tendering a public apology. Clarifying their stance, she stated, “We had absolutely no intention of insulting or hurting anyone’s religious sentiments. Neither the Udupi Sri Krishna Mutt nor the Paryaya Shiroor Mutt had any hand in or control over the script of our performance. No Madhva Mutt pontiff or scholar instructed us to make those remarks; we had simply read those accounts in a book. If our narration has hurt the sentiments of followers of other philosophies or Mutts, we offer our sincere apologies.“

Concurrently, the management of the Paryaya Shiroor Mutt issued an official clarification expressing deep regret over the incident. The Mutt authorities revealed that the organizers had originally sought permission solely for hosting a Bharatanatyam recital at the Rajangana. However, they integrated the Harikatha segment without the Mutt’s prior knowledge.

Upon realizing that objectionable remarks were made against Adi Shankaracharya during the event, the Shiroor Mutt administration immediately directed the performers to issue a public clarification and apology, which was subsequently done. The Shiroor Mutt Diwan termed the entire sequence of events as highly unfortunate and unintended.

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