Self-Styled 'Bal Sant' Abhinav Arora Miffed By Online Trolling, Says 'Ab Hum Bardasht Nahi Karenge'

Amid increasing criticism, 10-year-old spiritual speaker and content creator Abhinav Arora recently responded to the public reaction surrounding a viral video in which he is seen being scolded onstage by Swami Rambhadracharya.

The widely discussed video shows Arora singing and dancing beside the spiritual leader at a religious event, before Swami Rambhadracharya asks him to step down, instructing, "Please step down. Maintain decorum."

In response to the backlash, Arora clarified that the video was from an earlier event.

"The video is not recent. It's about a year or a year-and-a-half old from Vrindavan," said the self-styled 'Bal Sant.'

Addressing the audience, Arora questioned, "Have you never been scolded by your parents? Even if such a prominent guru like Swami Rambhadracharya scolded me, why is it the nation's biggest news story?"

He also revealed that Jagadguru Ramanandacharya had later invited him to his room and blessed him after the incident.

The young orator addressed criticism regarding his schooling, as some have questioned why he is not attending school. He explained, "I do go to school. However, I've faced so much trolling that I haven't been able to attend, and neither has my sister because of me."

Arora's role as a spiritual figure has recently prompted public concern, with some alleging that his parents may be exploiting him.

During a press interaction, Swami Rambhadracharya voiced his views on children adopting saint-like roles, calling it "unfortunate."

He further criticised Abhinav's actions, describing him as a "foolish" boy. Swami Rambhadracharya remarked, "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 claims to have embarked on his spiritual journey at the age of three, inspired by his devotion to Hindu deities such as Ram and Krishna.

With nearly a million followers on Instagram, he has become one of India's youngest spiritual orators, frequently sharing posts with political figures, celebrities, and Bollywood stars, showcasing his growing influence.

However, doubts persist regarding the authenticity of his spiritual persona. Critics, including the YouTube channel 'Only Desi,' suggest that his achievements may largely be due to his father's influence-an entrepreneur and motivational speaker-casting doubts on the legitimacy of his spiritual narrative in a world that often scrutinises young prodigies.