Baba Bageshwar raises religious conversion issue in Punjab, appeals to turbaned Sikhs to stay rooted in Sikh faith
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), September 28, 2026: Bageshwar Dham chief Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has raised the issue of religious conversion in Punjab, appealing to turbaned Sikh men who believe in Guru Granth Sahib to remain committed to their faith and Sikh traditions.
Addressing devotees during his ongoing Hanumant Katha at the GLADA Ground on Chandigarh Road, Shastri said Punjab needs to address two major issues — drug abuse and religious conversion.
He said people working in administration and social organisations were making efforts to address problems in Punjab and thanked them for their work. However, he said he wanted two things to stop in the state — drug abuse and religious conversion.
Referring to alleged attempts to influence people towards religious conversion, Shastri said that people were being “misled” in different parts of Punjab. He particularly appealed to Sikh men who wear turbans and believe in Guru Granth Sahib not to get influenced by such efforts.
Shastri invoked the teachings of the Sikh Gurus during his appeal, saying that Sikh scriptures provide spiritual guidance and that followers should remain connected with their Guru’s teachings and maryada.
“We will not allow religious conversion in Punjab,” he said, while urging turbaned Sikh men to preserve their religious identity and follow the traditions of their faith.
Focus on Punjab’s Drug Problem
Shastri also expressed concern over drug abuse in Punjab, describing the issue as a major concern for the state’s youth.
He appealed to young people to stay away from intoxicants and said efforts were needed to prevent Punjab’s younger generation from falling into addiction.
He also spoke about the aspirations of parents for their children and urged families to encourage their sons and daughters to achieve success in life. Referring to the example of an IAS officer, he said he wanted to see daughters from Punjab reach positions where their achievements would bring recognition to their parents.
The remarks were made during Shastri’s five-day Hanumant Katha, being held at the GLADA Ground from September 26 to 30. A large number of devotees have been attending the religious programme.