Hathras stampede: Who is Narayan Sakar Hari Bhole Baba? All you need to know

On Tuesday, a tragic stampede occurred during the satsang of Narayan Sakar Hari Bhole Baba, a renowned saint known for conducting programs across several districts in western Uttar Pradesh.

The incident took place at the Hathras-Etah border in Uttar Pradesh, where 116 people have already lost their lives during a satsang conducted by Sant Bhole Baba. The gathering, held in Ratibhan Pur near Hathras-Etah border, attracted a large crowd who had assembled to listen to Sant Bhole Baba's sermon.

The stampede-like situation arose due to extreme humidity and heat inside the pandal, according to reports. Meanwhile, many women, elderly individuals, and children sustained critical injuries.

Who is Narayan Sakar Hari?
Narayan Sakar Hari hails originally from Bahadur Nagri village in Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, where he began his education. After completing higher studies, he secured a job in the intelligence department and served there for an extended period before turning towards spirituality. Upon embarking on his spiritual journey, he changed his name from Surajpal to Narayan Sakar Hari and established an ashram in Patiyali village.

A baba in white suit
Unlike other spiritual leaders, Narayan Sakar Hari is often seen clad in a white suit, tie, and shoes, sometimes opting for traditional kurta-pyjama attire. During his congregations, Sakar Hari himself recounts that his mind frequently gravitated towards spirituality during his tenure in the job, prompting him to selflessly serve devotees and eventually commit to this path.

Spiritual pursuits
Resignation from his position in the intelligence department came in the 1990s, marking his full immersion into spiritual pursuits. Some sources suggest he also served in the UP Police before opting for voluntary retirement and assuming the role of a spiritual leader, delivering sermons. Narayan Sakar Hari emphasiSes that any donations, dakshina, or offerings received during his congregations are not kept for personal use but distributed among devotees.

Ideology of Narayan Sakar Hari
Regarding ideology and belief, Narayan Sakar Hari identifies himself as a disciple of Hari, proclaiming in his discourses that he is the master of the entire universe. He asserts that even Brahma, Vishnu, and Shankar have acknowledged him as their guru.

(With inputs from agencies)