Amidst the sands of the Magh Mela, the most talked-about pavilion is undoubtedly Satua Baba’s. It’s a brilliant blend of grandeur, opulence, and influence that compels both devotees and VIPs to pause and marvel. Be it photos in a charter plane or a procession of luxury cars like Defender and Porsche, not forgetting occasional rides on elephants and camels; Satua Baba’s style lends this Magh Mela a unique identity.
Known to be close to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Satua Baba is in the spotlight not only for his striking tent or lifestyle but also due to popular discussions on social media. His tent features photos with prominent national saints, celebrities, and politicians, with several images alongside Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath particularly capturing attention. Satua Baba’s canopy is not only majestic in size but is also renowned as one of the most well-organized setups, with a constant flow of visitors, including followers, saints, and guests, throughout the day and night. The arrangements for security, food, accommodation, and sermons are prepared on a completely different level.
On the Video of DM Making Bread
Recently, Satua Baba made social media waves with the viral video of the District Magistrate making bread, which prompted various questions and political jibes. Baba responded articulately, stating that making or eating bread is not a crime. District Magistrates are human too, and on their visit to the tent, they wanted to relive childhood memories by making bread. He clarified that cooking with guests and saints is nothing unusual in the Sanatan tradition, and making it a controversy reflects a negative mindset.
Source: aajtak
Targeting Akhilesh Yadav
Openly commenting on Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya’s remarks and the reaction of the Samajwadi Party, Satua Baba expressed that some view everything through the lens of politics, while in Sanatan culture, service and participation are integral to life. He specifically criticized Akhilesh Yadav, stating that his family has always been against Ram and has a history of violence against Ram devotees. He believes that caste-based politics will no longer thrive.
Beyond politics, discussions on international issues happen at Satua Baba’s tent. Expressing deep concern for the current situation in Bangladesh, Baba stated that what happens there is very saddening. While India has always been accepting, there seems to be a deliberate attempt in Bangladesh to harass Indians. He claims that serious discourse on this topic is ongoing among the sadhus and saints at the Magh Mela, and if necessary, a decision to embark on a mission to Bangladesh may even arise from the discussions.
Responding to Questions about Luxuries
Confidently addressing questions on his lavish lifestyle and luxury vehicles, Satua Baba stated that spiritual grandeur is not confined by limits. Devotees express their devotion in various ways, be it through cars, horses, or elephants. He doesn't focus on the brands or price but rather on his path and purpose. Satua Baba also mentioned that the legacy of the Satua Baba institution is over 300 years old, and the Sanatan tradition has always been magnificent. Grand endeavors require grand preparations. While discussing the religious significance of the Magh Mela, Satua Baba emphasized the importance of bathing on Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya. Makar Sankranti marks the sun's northward transition, symbolizing purification and new resolutions, while bathing on Mauni Amavasya purifies the mind, speech, and deeds. He urged pilgrims to view the Magh bath not just as a ritual but as a form of spiritual practice.
Praising CM Yogi as the Torchbearer of Sanatan
Commenting on his relationship with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Satua Baba stated that Yogi Ji is the torchbearer of Sanatan. He interacts with everyone with such warmth, it feels like a bond that spans years. Yogi Ji has understood the pains and sorrows of every sector of society and works with that sensitivity. However, unbothered by critics, Baba continues on his path, emphasizing that a saint's role is to guide society, not to be swayed by criticisms. His pavilion on the sands of Magh Mela stands testament to the expanding role of saints today, encompassing not just religion, but also societal, political, and global issues.