Virpur: Swaminarayan sect monk Gyanprakash Swami visited the Jalaram temple in Virpur to apologize for his controversial remarks about Jalaram Bapa. His comments, which went viral, triggered a widespread outrage across the state, with devotees demanding a public apology. In response, Swami today personally visited the temple and sought forgiveness.

The controversial remark by the monk had sparked protests from devotees, community leaders, and even MPs, as many accused Swami of disrespecting other faiths in an attempt to assert religious superiority. The Brahmin community also objected to passages in the Neelkanth Charitra book, which they claim insult Jalaram Bapa, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati.

Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani condemned the remarks on social media, calling them unacceptable and urging Swami to visit Virpur to atone for his statements.

Although Gyanprakash Swami initially apologized via video, public anger remained high. Devotees, including members of the Raghuvanshi community and local villagers, insisted on a personal apology. Arriving in Virpur under heavy police security, Swami was escorted through the temple’s rear entrance to the sanctum sanctorum. His visit and apology may help defuse tensions surrounding the issue. DeshGujarat