Debate Ignites Over Sanatana Dharma and Caste System

Swami Satchidananda, head of Sivagiri Mutt, argued there is no connection between Sanatana Dharma and the Chaturvarnya caste system. This statement follows Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's comments on Sree Narayana Guru and Sanatana Dharma. The BJP and Congress have criticized Vijayan's remarks, sparking political tensions.

Swami Satchidananda, the head of Sivagiri Mutt, stated on Friday that his research shows no link between Sanatana Dharma and the Chaturvarnya caste system.

The statement arrives amid a heated debate following Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's comments regarding Sree Narayana Guru, founder of Sivagiri Mutt, suggesting he reinvented a Dharma for the new age rather than following the traditional Sanatana Dharma.

Political backlash ensued, with BJP and Congress leaders criticizing Vijayan, accusing him of insulting Sanatana Dharma and claiming exclusivity to Sangh Parivar ideology.

(With inputs from agencies.)