New Delhi: A statement by Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji of Udupi Sri Krishna Math has sparked a significant controversy after he claimed that learning Sanskrit is essential for those wishing to enter heaven. The religious leader made these remarks at the conclusion of the Sri Krishna Masotsava program, a month-long celebration held at Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi, coinciding with Sri Krishna Janmashtami. The event, attended by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, took place in the royal hall of the Matha.During his speech, Swamiji asserted that Sanskrit is the root of all languages and is necessary for communication in the divine realm. He emphasized that just as English is an international language needed for global communication, Sanskrit is the language required for dealing in heaven. His statement quickly went viral on social media, leading to widespread backlash and debate.Swamijis controversial remarksCritics of Swamijis remarks have expressed strong opposition, questioning the connection between language and spiritual realms. Lokesh Pujari sarcastically commented, “Those who know Sanskrit should not still live in this hell. They should go to heaven.” Another critic, Vanam Shivaramu, who is 67 years old, remarked, “I still cant learn Sanskrit. So I wont get heaven. I dont want it.” Meanwhile, Satish Kumar K labeled the statement as “insulting,” questioning the existence of heaven and its correlation with language.Amidst the growing controversy, some social media users responded humorously, with Vadagere Nagarajaiah joking, “I have become eligible to go to heaven because I learned Sanskrit… But my family did not, so I dont want to go without them.”
