CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli has spoken out against the growing number of “fake gods” and unquestioning religious devotion, invoking the well-known story of Goddess Parvati’s curse in a discussion of religious belief.
At the launch of a souvenir published by the Madan Bhandari Memorial Foundation, Oli discussed religion, yoga and the tendency to follow people unquestioningly when they present themselves as spiritual authorities.
Referring to the story of Parvati’s curse, he said it brought an end to the birth of divine beings. Yet, he noted, many people still claim to be divine.
He used the tale to criticise the way people elevate self-proclaimed spiritual figures, including wandering spiritualists from southern regions, and feel compelled to bow at their feet.
Oli Challenges Unquestioning Devotion
Oli recalled the popular account of the 33 Koti Deities, in which Parvati curses the gods, declaring that no divine children would be born.
He connected the story to the present-day problem of people claiming to be gods.
Oli stressed that beliefs should be assessed according to truth, justice and humanism.
“We should examine our beliefs through the principles of truth, justice and humanism. We should not follow individuals blindly.”
His remarks formed part of a broader discussion in which he questioned the influence of religious beliefs on how people understand yoga and spirituality.
Yoga Should Support A Healthy Mind And Body
Oli also discussed Ashtanga Yoga, highlighting the importance of yama and niyama.
He said these principles guide people to avoid violence, speak truthfully, live peacefully and respect other people’s property.
By following these values, society can become more ethical. Rather than allowing religion to obstruct this, people should focus on these principles.
He also underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy body and mind.
His comments presented yoga as more than a spiritual practice: it can also foster discipline, ethical conduct and peaceful ways of living.
Oli Questions Yoga’s Connection With Theism
Oli said later interpretations, including those associated with Patanjali, have increasingly connected yoga with theism.
He noted that Samkhya and Shaiva yoga did not originally place as much emphasis on theism.
He also referred to Adiyogi Shiva, saying the focus was on yoga and on developing a strong mind and a healthy body.
The remarks reflect his perspective on the history of yoga, philosophy and religion.
They were part of a wider discussion about how philosophical ideas have been blended with religious claims in ways that encourage unquestioning devotion.
Truth, Justice And Humanism
Throughout his speech, Oli highlighted the importance of truth, justice and humanism.
He said people should avoid violence, tell the truth, respect the rights of others and refrain from coveting their property.
These principles, he said, are essential to building a good society.
He urged people to place less importance on the status of spiritual figures and pay more attention to their conduct and ethical standards.
Oli’s Remarks On Fake Gods Draw Attention To Religion’s Public Role
Oli’s comments on fake gods have drawn attention to religion’s place in public life. He referred to Hindu mythology while also criticising contemporary religious practices and the public’s responses to spiritual figures.
His speech raises questions about how to distinguish spiritual guidance and religious belief from blind devotion.
The remarks should be understood as his views on religious traditions and on how society behaves.
Using satire, Oli drew on the story of Parvati’s curse to suggest that people should question those who claim spiritual authority. He also stressed the importance of acting ethically.
Ultimately, his comments focused on truth, non violence, fairness and the pursuit of a healthy mind and body.