Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, known as Bageshwar Dham Sarkar, a spiritual guru from India, addressed over 7000 Fijians on Monday night, emphasizing that he is not in Fiji to collect money in the name of religion.
Speaking at his first public session at Prince Charles Park, he asserted that collecting money in the name of God is wrong.
“I left India with my mala, not to earn money. Religion isn’t a business. I have come here to spread the name of Ram,” he stated in Hindi.
He mentioned discussions with the core organizing committee where concerns were raised about charging people for attending his sessions.
“I won’t allow tickets in the name of God. Just as the wind and sun, which are free, have never sent you a bill, God is free too,” he explained.
Mr. Shastri noted that many people misuse his name to collect money.
“To date, I haven’t established another organization outside of India, nor have I opened any bank accounts in another country. I also don’t accept money from outside of India.
“If I receive money, that’s a different story. That doesn’t mean I don’t get money.
“I don’t refuse because I am a Brahman and a Guru. If a disciple offers money, I accept it.
“That money will be used to treat cancer in India, assist poor families in marrying off their daughters, and build a hospital.
“But my firm belief is that religion isn’t a business.”