Amid mounting criticism, 10-year-old spiritual orator and content creator Abhinav Arora recently addressed public reaction to a viral video where he is seen being scolded onstage by Swami Rambhadracharya. The video, which has sparked widespread discussion, shows Arora singing and dancing next to the spiritual leader at a religious event before Swami Rambhadracharya instructs him to step down, saying, “Please step down. Maintain decorum.”
Arora responded to the backlash, clarifying that the video is from a past event. “The video is not recent. It’s around a year or a year-and-a-half old from Vrindavan,” said the self-styled ‘Bal Sant.’ Addressing viewers, Arora asked, “Have you never been scolded by your parents? Even if such a big guru like Swami Rambhadracharya scolded me, why is it the nation’s biggest news story?” He further revealed that Jagadguru Ramanandacharya later invited him to his room and blessed him after the incident.
The young orator also addressed critiques about his education, as some questioned why he isn’t in school. He explained, “I do go to school. However, I’ve been trolled so much that I haven’t been able to attend, and my sister hasn’t either because of me.” Arora’s role as a spiritual figure has recently drawn public concern, with some alleging exploitation by his parents.
https://youtu.be/4lm6wHeYt2w?si=Cg5VAshQ_c953zPuDuring a press interaction, Swami Rambhadracharya shared his views on children preaching in a saint-like manner, calling it “unfortunate.” He further expressed his disapproval of Abhinav’s actions, referring to him as a “foolish” boy. Swami Rambhadracharya said, “Itna murkh ladka hai wo. Wo kehta hai ki Krishna uske sath padhta hai… bhagwan kya uske sath padenge? Maine to Vrindavan mai bhi usko danta tha” (He is a foolish boy. He claims that Lord Krishna studies with him… Will God study with him? I had scolded him in Vrindavan too.”
Who is Abhinav Arora?
Abhinav Arora asserts that he embarked on his spiritual journey at the tender age of three, inspired by his devotion to Hindu deities like Shri Ram and Shri Krishna. With nearly a million followers on Instagram, he has emerged as one of India's youngest spiritual orators, often sharing posts that feature him with political figures, celebrities, and Bollywood stars, showcasing his growing influence.
However, scepticism surrounds the authenticity of his spiritual claims. Critics, including the YouTube channel ‘Only Desi,’ suggest that his achievements may largely be attributed to his father's influence—an entrepreneur and motivational speaker—raising doubts about the credibility of his spiritual narrative in a landscape that often scrutinises child prodigies.