AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal invoked a reference attributed to Lord Ram on Sunday, 12 July 2026, asserting that those with demonic tendencies would, in the Kali Yuga, oppose the recitation of the Sunderkand — a pointed remark that appeared directed at political critics of his public religious engagements.

In the post, Kejriwal wrote: 'भगवान राम ने कहा था - कलयुग में राक्षसी प्रवृत्ति वाले लोग सुंदरकांड पाठ का विरोध करेंगे।' ('Lord Ram had said — in the Kali Yuga, people with demonic tendencies will oppose the recitation of the Sunderkand.')

Context

The Sunderkand is the fifth chapter of the Valmiki Ramayana, centred on Hanuman's journey to Lanka in search of Sita. It is among the most widely recited passages in Hindu devotional practice, held to bring spiritual protection and fortitude to the devotee. Public readings of the Sunderkand — known as Sunderkand paath — are common at temples, homes, and community gatherings across India.

Kejriwal has, on several occasions, publicly participated in or organised religious events, a practice that has drawn both support from devotees and criticism from political opponents who question the intent behind such displays.

Policy Backdrop

Indian politicians across the spectrum have periodically invoked Ramayana episodes and Vedic references in public discourse. Such invocations typically arise during cultural debates, electoral campaigns, or in response to criticism of a leader's religious positioning. The framing of political opposition as spiritually or morally deficient — using scriptural language — is a rhetorical device that recurs across party lines.

Kejriwal's statement does not reference a specific policy or scheme. It is instead a cultural-political assertion, positioning critics of his religious conduct as adversaries of devotion itself.

Stakeholders and Impact

Hindu devotees who regularly observe Sunderkand recitations may view the remark as a validation of their practice and an appeal to shared religious identity. Political rivals, particularly those who have accused Kejriwal of performative religiosity, are likely to contest the framing.

Religious organisations and dharmacharyas (religious preceptors) may also respond to the attribution of the quoted statement, since the claim that Lord Ram prophesied opposition to Sunderkand in the Kali Yuga is not a passage from widely cited canonical texts — a distinction that could draw scrutiny from scholars of the Ramayana tradition.

What's Next

Responses from opposition parties and religious bodies are expected on social media and in public forums in the coming days. The remark is likely to amplify ongoing debates about the role of religious symbolism in AAP's political communication, particularly as the party seeks to consolidate its base in Delhi and expand in other states. Whether Kejriwal elaborates on the statement in subsequent public appearances will determine how far the conversation travels beyond social media.