VHP Slams Vivek Agnihotri Over Religion and Tax Remark, Says 'Don't Lecture Hinduism'

Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has launched a sharp counter-attack against filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri over his recent remarks regarding religion, religious gatherings, and taxation. VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal targeted the filmmaker, stating that he should refrain from giving unsolicited lectures on Hindu dharma. The controversy erupted after Agnihotri shared a video of massive crowds at a prominent spiritual site and posted critical remarks about India's economic focus.

VHP's Strong Counter to Agnihotri's Comments

VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal questioned whether Agnihotri's concerns about superstition and unscientific practices were limited only to Hindu traditions. Bansal asked if the filmmaker fails to notice questionable practices or blind faith associated with religious gatherings, shrines, madrasas, churches, or healing meetings of other communities. He suggested that if Agnihotri is genuinely concerned about victims of exploitation, he should broaden his perspective rather than targeting Hindu beliefs alone.

What Did Vivek Agnihotri Say?

Recently, sharing a video of a massive crowd gathered at a spiritual retreat on his 'X' (formerly Twitter) handle, Vivek Agnihotri wrote that if the government were to start taxing religion, India would become the richest country in the world overnight. He reasoned that people would shift their focus from blind religious devotion towards innovation, progress, productivity, and modern ideas instead of relying on divine miracles.

'Clear Your Own Doubts Before Preaching Others'

Concurring that there is no medicine for deep-rooted delusions, Bansal retorted that one must clear their own internal confusion before pointing fingers at society. He emphasized that individuals should not meddle in matters beyond their expertise, and when speaking on profound subjects like religion, one must consult accomplished saints and scholars.