New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) The esteemed priest of Bageshwar Dham, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, has passionately advocated for the statehood of Bundelkhand and has urged the authorities to act promptly on the issue of stray cattle, demanding the establishment of shelters for these animals.

During a press interaction in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, Pandit Dhirendra Shastri stated, “If Bundelkhand were to attain its own state status, it would undoubtedly lead to significant development, progress, and momentum in the area. However, any such resolution would require the involvement of the government's legal framework and the wisdom of those in power.”

The spiritual figure also expressed grave concern regarding the treatment of cows in Madhya Pradesh and Bundelkhand, describing it as a “misfortune” for Hindus and the broader Indian society.

“It is the utmost misfortune for Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and for Hindus that our revered cow, seen as a mother, is left to roam the streets,” he lamented.

He called upon the government to construct 5 to 10 large cowsheds in each district to house stray cattle, thus alleviating social problems and preventing religious transgressions.

“If each cowshed can accommodate 4,000 to 5,000 cattle, we could shelter around 40,000 to 50,000 cows. This would not only clear the streets but also provide these animals with necessary refuge and mitigate sin,” Shastri explained.

In a compelling address on unity and patriotism, he underscored, “It is vital for Rashtra and Ram to progress in unison. Every Indian has a duty to exhibit patriotism. We propose that the National Anthem be sung in temples, churches, mosques, and shrines throughout India at least once a week, to foster national unity and keep the spirit of patriotism alive.”

He also conveyed warm wishes to the Annapurna Ramlila Committee, which is commemorating its 75th Amrit Mahotsav this year.

Revealing an upcoming major religious event, Shastri announced, “From November 7 to 16, a padyatra will take place starting from Delhi’s Adya Katyayani Mata Mandir to Banke Bihari in Vrindavan. Covering over 140 kilometers in ten days, this spiritual journey will traverse through Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.”

He added that lakhs of devotees from various states including Bihar, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Uttar Pradesh are anticipated to participate in the yatra, marking it as one of the largest spiritual congregations of the year.