If Dhirendra Shastri’s Katha is Expensive, Listen to Me: Ramdev
In a recent statement, yoga guru Baba Ramdev has reacted to the controversy surrounding the alleged high costs charged by kathavachaks (storytellers) in India. Specifically, he responded to the statement made by Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav, who claimed that many kathavachaks charge a whopping ₹50 lakh (₹5 million) for an event. Ramdev, never one to shy away from controversy, took to social media to express his views on the matter.
In his statement, Ramdev targeted none other than Pandit Dhirendra Shastri, also known as Bageshwar Baba, who is a well-known kathavachak. Ramdev asked, “Can anyone afford Bageshwar Baba for katha?” He then went on to label Shastri’s kathas as “useless” and claimed that people can listen to his own stories for free on YouTube.
If anyone is willing to pay a hefty sum of money to listen to someone’s stories, then I have a suggestion. Instead of paying ₹50 lakh to someone like Bageshwar Baba, listen to me. I can narrate every story, every katha, for free. And not just that, I can also give you the knowledge and wisdom that comes with it.
Ramdev’s statement has sparked a heated debate in the country, with many people taking to social media to weigh in on the issue. Some have defended Ramdev’s views, arguing that the high costs charged by kathavachaks are indeed excessive and that people should have access to spiritual knowledge without having to break the bank.
Others, however, have criticized Ramdev’s comments, saying that he is undermining the importance of traditional storytelling and the value that kathavachaks bring to their audiences. They argue that the stories told by kathavachaks are not just mere entertainment, but also convey important moral and spiritual lessons that are essential for personal growth and development.
So, what is the truth behind these allegations? Is it true that kathavachaks are charging exorbitant amounts of money for their services? And is Ramdev’s suggestion to listen to his own stories for free a viable alternative?
To answer these questions, it is necessary to understand the context in which kathavachaks operate. In India, storytelling has a long and rich tradition, and kathavachaks are a vital part of this tradition. They travel from town to town, sharing stories of gods and goddesses, mythological events, and moral lessons with audiences of all ages.
Kathavachaks are typically well-versed in Hindu mythology and scripture, and their stories are often based on these sources. They use a combination of music, dance, and drama to bring their stories to life, and their performances are often accompanied by traditional instruments such as the tabla and the harmonium.
In recent years, however, the cost of attending a katha event has increased significantly. This is due in part to the growing popularity of kathavachaks, which has led to an increase in demand for their services. As a result, kathavachaks are now able to command higher fees for their performances.
But are these fees justified? That is a matter of debate. On the one hand, kathavachaks spend years studying and perfecting their craft, and their performances are often highly entertaining and engaging. On the other hand, the high costs charged by some kathavachaks may be prohibitive for many people, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.
In this context, Ramdev’s suggestion to listen to his own stories for free on YouTube takes on a new significance. While it is true that Ramdev is a well-known figure with a large following, his suggestion may not be a viable alternative for everyone. For one thing, his stories may not be as engaging or entertaining as those told by a trained kathavachak. Additionally, his YouTube channel may not be accessible to everyone, particularly those who do not have internet access or who prefer to consume spiritual content in a more traditional setting.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the costs charged by kathavachaks is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While it is true that some kathavachaks may be charging excessive fees, it is also important to recognize the value that they bring to their audiences. For those who are interested in listening to spiritual stories and gaining spiritual knowledge, there are many alternatives available, including free resources on the internet and traditional storytelling events.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pay for a katha event is a personal one that depends on individual circumstances and preferences. However, it is important to approach this issue with an open mind and a willingness to consider the perspectives of all parties involved.
