Bageshwar Baba Takes London by Storm: Hanuman Chalisa Resonates in British Parliament

Bageshwar Baba, also known as Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, is on a global mission to promote Sanatan Dharma and foster unity among Hindus. Known for his dynamic Ram Katha sessions and his untiring commitment to his cause, he recently made headlines during his visit to London, where the grandeur of his welcome surprised even the British.

During his visit, Baba participated in a historic event inside the British Parliament, where he recited the Hanuman Chalisa. This unprecedented moment left many astonished, as the ancient Hindu verses echoed within the halls of British governance—once the seat of colonial power in India. “Even the English were seen joining in the recitation,” remarked a participant.

Bageshwar Baba’s mission stretches beyond mere religious propagation. He seeks to eliminate caste-based divisions and unite the global Hindu community, alongside projects such as the construction of a hospital at Bageshwar Dham in India.

A Voice for Global Sanatan Dharma

Traveling regularly to countries including Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, Baba urges those of Indian origin to stay connected to their culture and values. “I am proud of Sanatan Dharma, which embraces the philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family,” he declared in Parliament. “Sanatan is about both revolution and peace, anger and wisdom, enthusiasm and awareness.”

Taking Questions and Winning Hearts

In a memorable Q&A, a Pakistani-origin attendee, Mohammad Arif Azakia, asked if changing one’s name is necessary to be ‘accepted’ as a Hindu. Baba’s response drew applause and laughter: “Even Pakistan is originally ours—before 1947, we were all together. No matter where you are born, if your thoughts align with ours, you are one of us.” He further emphasized that Sanatan Dharma and Hindutva are more about embracing humanity than any specific identity or name. “We sing the songs of Rahim and Raskhan; we salute Abdul Kalam.”

An Inclusive Message

Baba highlighted that following Sanatan principles is not predicated on one’s name, appearance, or nationality. “If you read and follow the Bhagavad Gita, it does not matter what your background is.” He appealed for pride in one’s traditions without any sense of shame or embarrassment.

Humor and Humility

Known for his wit, Baba also joked about his command of English: “I don’t speak English, and the English don’t speak Hindi. So it is fair! When people ask me to learn English, I say—ask the English to learn Hindi.” He quipped, “My English is very high-level: ‘Yes, No, Very Good, Thank You!’ That’s more than enough for me.”

Challenging Social Ills–Even in the UK

Not limiting his observations to India, Baba addressed issues facing British society. He spoke about rising substance abuse among youth in the UK and encouraged young Indians abroad to uphold positive values. He even launched a meditation initiative aimed at keeping British youth away from addictions.

A Standing Ovation

Bageshwar Baba’s visit ended with rituals and worship at a London Hindu temple and left a strong impression, both among the Indian diaspora and local Britons. Parliamentarians honored him, recognizing his efforts in bringing Indian spiritual heritage to the world stage.

As Bageshwar Baba continues his journey across continents, his message remains clear: Sanatan Dharma unites, uplifts, and transcends boundaries—one recitation and one story at a time.