Pandit Pradeep Mishra Tenders Apology At Radha Rani Temple In UP's Barsana After Backlash Over Remarks

Renowned Katha Vachak Pradeep Mishra, who recently sparked controversy with his remarks about Radha and Lord Krishna, has sought forgiveness from the residents of Braj. On Saturday, Mishra visited Barsana, where he paid obeisance to Radha and expressed his apologies. Mishra, in an interview with ABP News, said, "I have come here today to the feet of Shri Radha Rani. It is by her grace that I have been called here. I offer my apologies if my words have hurt anyone. I seek forgiveness from Radha Rani, Kishori Ji, and the residents of Braj."

What did Pandit Pradeep Mishra say?

Pandit Mishra stated during a sermon that Radha was originally from Rawal village and only visited Barsana once a year, where her father’s court was located. He further asserted that Radha’s name was not among Lord Krishna’s queens and that her husband was Anay Ghosh, with her mother-in-law being Jatila and her sister-in-law named Kutila. Mishra claimed that Radha’s marriage took place in Chhatra village. These comments provoked a strong backlash from the saint community.

Prominent among the critics was Premanand Maharaj, who expressed his outrage, stating, "After reading a few verses, they become Katha Vachak. What do you know about Ladli Ji?... What right do you have to speak about Radha Ji when you know nothing about her? We live in her, and she lives in us. If you want to know Shri Ji, look into my eyes and see what Shri Ji is."

Premanand Maharaj also emphasised the inseparability of Radha and Krishna, criticising Mishra's statements. "Radha and Shri Krishna are not separate. Pradeep Mishra is talking too much. No one can save you from hell. You should be ashamed. The glory of the one whose fame you live on, eat from, and sing of, you do not understand."

The saints demanded an apology from him within three days, a deadline Mishra initially failed to meet.