Bangalore– In a press conference held in Bangalore on Thursday, renowned thinker K S Bhagwan delivered a powerful critique of Sanatana Dharma, labeling it as “completely against the Constitution of India.” Bhagwan announced the launch of a statewide awareness campaign titled “We are not Sanatani” in response to what he perceives as a perpetuation of inequality within the religion.
During the press conference, Bhagwan emphasized the inherent contradictions between the principles of Sanatana Dharma and the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution. He stated, “The Constitution of India advocates equality without discrimination. But, in Sanatana Dharma, there is an attitude that everyone other than Brahmins are inferior. All Shudras are asserted to be slaves of Brahmins. Is it possible to accept this attitude?”
Bhagwan went on to assert that Sanatana Dharma fosters inequality while restricting individual freedoms. He referenced historical figures such as Buddha, Basava, Gandhi, and Ambedkar, who attempted to address the perceived flaws within the religion. However, Bhagwan argued that these issues have only grown stronger in recent times, calling for the uprooting of Sanatana Dharma, in accordance with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s wishes.
The prominent thinker also pointed out the disparities in religious practices, highlighting that Brahmins serve as priests in Hindu temples, creating a hierarchy not found in other religions. Bhagwan proposed that a fairer system should be implemented, suggesting that priests for all government-owned temples should be selected through examinations, promoting a more equitable approach.
Among the attendees at the press conference were political analyst Bapu Heddur Shetty, Shudra Shakti magazine editor B.R. Ramegowda, and author B.T. Lalita Naik, who joined Bhagwan in addressing the issues raised.
