National News: The country's famous storyteller, Pt. Pradeep Mishra, has once again come under the circle of controversy. The alleged 'indecent comment' made on Lord Chitragupt ji during the Shivpuran Katha organized on June 14 in the Beed district of Maharashtra has created intense anger in the Kayastha community across the country. The matter became so serious that Pandit Mishra once again had to publicly apologize.
What was the whole matter?
On June 14, during the ongoing Katha in Beed, Pandit Pradeep Mishra allegedly used the word "Muchhandar" while addressing Lord Chitragupt. On hearing this word, some people sitting in the gathering objected, but the matter did not stop there. As soon as the video went viral on social media, a wave of anger ran through the Kayastha community across the country. At many places, effigies of Mishra were burnt, memorandums were submitted, and massive protests were seen on social media.
Mishra's clarification and apology
In view of the increasing pressure of the controversy, Pandit Mishra spoke to the media at Kubereshwar Dham in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, on June 18. He said,
"The story that was going on in Maharashtra was about the devotion of Yamraj, Chitragupt ji, and Lord Shiva. During that time, that word came out. My intention was not to hurt anyone's feelings. If my words have hurt anyone, then I apologize."
Mishra also added that a great text like Shiv Puran does not allow anyone to be insulted or hurt. He urged everyone to consider this controversy over now and maintain harmony.
He has been surrounded by controversies earlier too
It is worth noting that this is not the first time that Pandit Mishra has had to apologize for his words. Earlier, he had to face strong opposition on a comment related to Radha Rani. Even then, voices of protest had emerged across the country, and ultimately he had to apologize. This repetition has raised questions about whether storytellers need to bring more sensitivity to their language.
Kayastha community's resentment persists
Several organizations of the Kayastha community have called this incident very unfortunate. They say that Chitragupta ji is not just a deity but a symbol of justice and accounting. Such language about him hurts faith. Hashtags #RespectChitragupt and #BoycottPradeepMishra are also trending on social media.
Religious discourse is not just a medium of entertainment or storytelling but is a subject related to people's faith and belief. In such a situation, it is the responsibility of the speakers to speak every word thoughtfully. The apology given by Pandit Pradeep Mishra may provide immediate relief, but this incident shows how important the dignity of speech is in a diverse society like India.
