Shri Kalki Dham, in Sambhal. gained national attention last February when Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid its foundation stone. In a candid and insightful conversation with Organiser’s Senior Assistant Editor Nishant Kumar Azad, Shri Acharya Pramod Krishnam Ji, Peethadhish of Shri Kalki Peeth, gives an insight into the historical, spiritual, and cultural significance of Kalki Dham in Sambhal. Acharya Ji also mentions extensive research, legal battles, and divine vision behind the establishment of this sacred site. Excerpts:
Acharya Ji, can you tell us about the vision and story behind the establishment of Kalki Dham? Can you elaborate its importance in relation to Sanatan Dharma?
The importance of Kalki Dham is deeply rooted in our scriptures. It is mentioned in Skanda Purana, Bhavishya Purana, Kalki Purana, and Shrimad Bhagavad Gita that the final incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu, Shri Kalki Narayan, will take place on this very land. These texts explicitly describe the location and significance of this sacred site, which is known as Sambhal. Saints, sages, and scholars have extensively read and interpreted these references over the years. One of the most well-known verses in this context states: “When the world is overshadowed by darkness, Sambhal will emerge as the site for divine intervention. The incarnation of Kalki will take place in the house of a virtuous Brahmin in Sambhal village.”
The scriptures also describe Sambhal as a place with 68 sacred sites, 19 wells, and a central Shivalingam established by Bhagwan Brahma. All these features match the descriptions of the land here.
How did this project begin, and what challenges have you faced in establishing Kalki Dham?
The vision for Kalki Dham began 18 years ago when I reflected on the need to prepare for the arrival of Bhagwan Kalki as described in the scriptures. In November 2007, when I was formally appointed as the head of Shri Kalki Peeth, I proposed the idea of establishing Kalki Dham to the spiritual community. However, this journey was fraught with challenges. Senior Congress leaders like Digvijaya Singh, Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others were part of the meeting we had in 2016 for the establishment of Kalki Dham. Though when Akhilesh Yadav’s Government came to power in Uttar Pradesh, they restricted the construction.
“We are not advocating for the destruction of mosques, but we cannot ignore the fact that many temples were demolished in the past. It is not about digging up the past; it is about preserving our history and identity. It is our right to know the truth of Sambhal”
The local authorities imposed restrictions on construction, citing potential communal unrest. We had to approach the High Court and later the Supreme Court multiple times to assert our rights over the land. After years of legal battles, in August 2023, the Allahabad High Court finally ruled in our favour, recognising our constitutional right to build Kalki Dham.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for Kalki Dham earlier this year. What was his reaction when you presented this project to him?
The Prime Minister understood the significance of Kalki Dham and graciously accepted the proposal. On February 19, 2024, he visited this sacred land, paid his respects, and personally laid the foundation stone. It was a moment of immense pride and joy for all of us.
Some people claim that the “Sambhal” mentioned in the scriptures might refer to other places, such as Sambalpur in Odisha. How do you address these claims?
This question often arises. We conducted extensive research to identify the exact location. The scriptures clearly state that the site will have 68 sacred spots, a Shivlingam in the Centre, and the Ganga flowing to its south. Sambhal matches all these descriptions.
Recently, the nation witnessed violent incidents in Sambhal during the survey of the disputed site (Harihar Mandir/Shahi Jama Masjid) ordered by the court. Stones were pelted at the police and the court-appointed Commission. What do you think led to this unrest?
This was not a communal clash between Hindus and Muslims. The violence was orchestrated by the Samajwadi Party. It was a political conspiracy. The leaders of the Samajwadi Party incited people to create chaos.
That’s a significant statement. Are you saying that the Samajwadi Party is responsible for this violence?
Yes, absolutely. The prominent leaders of the Samajwadi Party were involved, and their actions led to the unrest. Even Akhilesh Yadav cannot be absolved of this conspiracy. If he was not involved, then Akhilesh would have taken action against his party’s MPs and MLAs who incited this violence.
Are you implying that Akhilesh Yadav directly supported this unrest?
If he didn’t, why didn’t Akhilesh issue notices to his party members who were involved? This was not a State Government issue or even a local administrative decision. The court ordered a survey to verify the claims, and it was the responsibility of the police and administration to execute that order. Yet, stones were pelted, crowds gathered, and chaos ensued. This was a political fight—a deliberate attempt to create unrest in Sambhal.
Many argue, “kya hum har masjid ke niche mandir dhundhenge”. They say that digging up old religious disputed sites could disrupt social harmony. What is your response to this?
Sanatan Dharma teaches us to respect all faiths. It does not permit violence or hatred. However , acknowledging historical truths is essential. We are not advocating for the destruction of mosques, but we cannot ignore the fact that many temples were demolished in the past. It is not about digging up the past; it is about preserving our history and identity. It is our right to know the truth of Sambhal. And I assure you that once it will be out, it will send shockwaves around the country.
What is the timeline for completing Kalki Dham?
Our architects and engineers are designing Kalki Dham to be a one-of-a-kind temple. Unlike other sacred sites that were built after divine events, this will be the first temple established in anticipation of Bhagwan Kalki’s arrival. It will feature eleven sanctum sanctorum dedicated to the ten incarnations of Bhagwan Vishnu and one of Maa Vaishno Devi. We hope to complete the construction within a few years.
Acharya Ji, you have been associated with politics in the past. Do you see yourself joining any political party in the future?
My sole focus now is to see the construction of Kalki Dham. Politics is secondary to this divine mission. No position or title can compare to the honour of being part of this sacred work.
