by A Storm Brews in Surat
On March 3, 2025, a firestorm hit Gujarat. Jnan Prakash Swami, a Swaminarayan sect saint, sparked outrage with comments about Jalaram Bapa during a Surat satsang. The Raghuvanshi community erupted in anger by 07:07 PM IST.
What Swami Said
At Amroli, Jnan Prakash claimed Jalaram Bapa got blessings from Gunatit Swami for his famous Sadavrat food service. He said, “Jala Bhagat begged for it to run forever.” This didn’t sit well with Jalaram’s devotees.
Raghuvanshi Rage Unleashed
The Raghuvanshi Samaj, tied to Jalaram Bapa’s legacy, saw red. They called it an insult to their saint, a Gujarat icon born in 1799. X posts flared up, slamming the Swami for twisting history.
Virpur Roars Back
In Virpur, Jalaram’s hometown, the backlash grew loud. Local leaders and devotees demanded proof. “Bring your books here!” one sarpanch shouted, as per X chatter, showing the community’s hurt.
Swami’s Quick Apology
By midday March 3, Jnan Prakash backtracked. He dropped a video saying, “I bow to Sant Jalaram Bapa—sorry if I hurt anyone.” He yanked the original clip off air fast.
Why It Hit Hard
Jalaram Bapa isn’t just a name—he’s a symbol of kindness. His feeding of the poor, started in Virpur, still runs today. The Raghuvanshi guard his honor like family, making this sting deep.
Book Claim Under Fire
Jnan Prakash said he read it in a book. But devotees aren’t buying it. “Show us the page!” they demanded on X, calling it a cheap shot at their faith.
Protests Pop Up
Across Gujarat, tempers flared. Raghuvanshi groups rallied in Surat and Rajkot, per X posts. They want a public sorry from Virpur—nothing less will do.
A Community’s Pride
This isn’t new—saints clashing stirs trouble often. The Raghuvanshi Samaj sees Jalaram as pure good. Any jab at him feels like a punch to their heart.
Swami’s Defense Fumbles
In his apology, Jnan Prakash said, “It was just a story I found.” But that didn’t cool the heat. X users asked, “Why drag our Bapa into your tale?”
Gujarat Watches Close
The row’s fresh as of March 3, 2025. Will it simmer down or blow up? The Raghuvanshi aren’t backing off—they’re ready to fight for Jalaram’s name.
A Bigger Clash?
Some see a sect rivalry here. Swaminarayan vs. Sanatan tensions pop up now and then. This could be more than one Swami’s slip, it’s a spark in a dry field.
