U.P. Row Over Notice to Religious Leader Using ‘Shankaracharya’ Title
A controversy has started in Uttar Pradesh after authorities issued a notice to a religious leader over his use of the title ‘Shankaracharya’. The leader, Mr. Saraswati, has been asked to explain why he is using the title, which is traditionally given to heads of established Hindu monasteries.
The dispute began during the Magh Mela, a month-long religious fair held every year. Large numbers of devotees gather at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati meet, to take a holy dip.
Officials said that the use of the Shankaracharya title without proper recognition could mislead devotees. However, Mr. Saraswati and his supporters said that the notice interferes with religious freedom and tradition.
The issue has led to a tug of war between the administration and the religious leader. It has also sparked debate on who has the authority to decide religious titles in India.
