**‘I Love Mahadev’ Disrespectful to God: Shankaracharya Amid Bareilly Controversy**
*By Snehil Singh | October 4, 2025, 03:08 PM*
Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, a prominent religious leader, has recently stirred controversy with his remarks concerning the “I Love Muhammad” protests in Uttar Pradesh.
The protests erupted following the filing of an FIR against 24 individuals accused of putting up posters stating “I Love Muhammad” during a Barawafat procession on September 4. The Hindu community strongly opposed these posters, labeling them as a deliberate provocation.
### Rising Tensions and Violent Protests
The situation escalated into violence with clashes erupting between approximately 2,000 protesters and police outside a mosque following congregational prayers last Friday. The unrest was further fueled by a protest call from Maulana Tauqeer Raza, which he later withdrew. So far, at least 81 people have been arrested in connection with the ongoing protests.
### Controversial Remarks by Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati
Adding fuel to the fire, Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati waded into the controversy, expressing that the phrase “I love Mahadev” is disrespectful to God. Speaking at an event in Bettiah, Bihar, he questioned whether uttering such sentiments towards Mahadev constitutes an honor or an insult.
He further remarked that the controversy might have been engineered to distract people from more pressing real issues. Saraswati also questioned whether Mahadev should be a matter of worship or love, emphasizing his view that saying “I love Mahadev” does not align with true reverence.
### About the Religious Leader
Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati holds the prestigious title of Jagadguru Shankaracharya of the Jyotish Peeth in Uttarakhand. The Shankaracharya tradition is known for its four mathas, which serve as vital centers for preserving and promoting the philosophy and teachings of Adi Shankaracharya.
As the debate continues, Saraswati’s statements have intensified discussions on religious expressions and respect, further complicating the already volatile situation in Uttar Pradesh.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/saying-i-love-mahadev-disrespectful-to-mahadev-shankaracharya/story