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In the video, Swami Anild Khacharya says that the 25-year-old unmarried woman has a loose personality. He also suggested that girls should get married at age 14.
The statement was made in a religious event at the Gauri Gopal Ashram in Vrindavan. (Photo source: x)
The video of spiritual speaker Swami Anild Khacharya sparked outrage over the mild comments about the 25-year-old woman, especially among women. The reportedly taking place during a religious event at the Gauri Gopal Ashram in Vrindavan led to protests and sharp criticism from many groups.
The widely distributed online clips work while talking at events. He said, “Ab ladki late hai 25 Saalki. ab25 Saalki ladki chaar jagah mu maar chuki hotihai. Sabnahi parbahut. aurwo 25 saal ki jab aati hai toh puri jawan hoke aati hai. Fisal Jaegi (the current girl is married at the age of 25. By then, not all but many people were already with multiple men. When the girl turns 25, she grows to perfection.
He also mentioned the incident of Sonam Raghvansi and Maskan Rastgi, saying, “Jaise ki ek honeymoon manane gayi, par wo kisi aur ke sath reh chuki thi, uske sath chakkartha. wodrum wala case purana nahi jyada drums are not even old.” He also said that the girl should marry at the age of 14 and get married so that she can better coordinate within the family.
Protests erupted and legal action was called for.
After the footage was distributed online, widespread outrage began, especially from women and social groups. According to the Navbharat Times, women advocates for the Mathura Bar Association called the statement anti-constitutional and sexist and filed a complaint with the Police Commissioner (SSP). Supporters also protested the collectors and called for strict legal action against Anildhacharya.
Gunjan Sharma, the state president of Sri Krishna Janmabumi Sangarsh Nyas, responded strongly to the video. According to the Navbharat Times, she said she would kill such an Acharya with her shoes. Meanwhile, Pandit Dinesh Farahari, the main petitioner in Krishna Janmabhumi's case, also condemned the statement, saying that such insensitive comments were not suitable for people in their spiritual roles.
Swami Aniruddhacharya makes an apology
As the backlash intensifies, Aniruddhacharya released a video apology through his official Instagram account. In it, he claimed that the viral video was edited to create a misleading story. He said only a portion of his speech was circulated, while the rest was removed which provided clarification.
In his statement, he said, “I apologize if my imperfect words hurt someone. Both men and women, should be character-oriented. My comments were directed at some individuals, not entirely society.” He repeated that this explanation was compiled from a circular video.
AI Editorial Claim
When asked about the authenticity of the video, Aniruddhacharya suggested the possibility of AI manipulation. He said, “Today, it's the age of AI. Anyone can present my words.
Despite the apology, protests continue from various women and social organizations.
The News18.com team of writers brings you stories about what's making the internet buzz while exploring science, cricket, technology, gender, Bollywood and culture.
The News18.com team of writers brings you stories about what's making the internet buzz while exploring science, cricket, technology, gender, Bollywood and culture.
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Delhi, India, India
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