Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - Spiritual leader Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, known as Bageshwar Dham Baba, sparked controversy during a Dharma Sabha in Nagpur on April 24, 2026, calling on Indian families to have four children and dedicate one to the RSS. Speaking at a temple foundation ceremony alongside RSS leaders, Shastri praised the organization's disaster relief work, saying RSS volunteers help when others hesitate. The remark has exploded across social media, generating heated debate.

Shastri declared, "I appeal to all Indians have four children, but give one to the RSS so they can serve society and help others in times of need." He highlighted RSS workers' rapid response during crises, contrasting it with slower government aid, and positioned RSS service as a noble societal contribution. The event at Bharat Durga Temple's foundation stone laying drew RSS and BJP figures, amplifying the statement's political weight. This marks Shastri's boldest population growth advocacy yet, building on earlier calls for Hindu families to have four children for demographic balance. Social media erupted with #DhirendraShastri trending, split between supporters praising RSS patriotism and critics decrying it as communal mobilization. Opposition voices question the logistics and ethics of donating children to ideological organizations.

Shastri's RSS child appeal fuses spiritual authority with Hindu nationalist messaging, positioning population growth as patriotic duty in Nagpur RSS's birthplace. While galvanizing supporters, the viral controversy highlights India's deepening cultural fault lines over family, faith, and ideology ahead of elections.