Despite Court’s order, hundreds carry out symbolic Rath Yatra for self-styled godman Sarathi Baba in  Mayurbhanj

In a concerning development regarding non-compliance with judicial directives, devotees of self-styled godman Santosh Raul, known as ‘Sarathi Baba’ among his followers, organised a symbolic Rath Yatra and satsang in Mayurbhanj district despite a standing court order prohibiting him from delivering discourses or participating in religious gatherings.

Sources reported that on June 12, a large gathering of followers assembled in Padmapokhari village under Kaptipada block and conducted a grand procession featuring Sarathi Baba’s framed photograph and wooden sandals placed on a specially decorated chariot.

The event reportedly saw over a hundred participants, including tribal dance troupes and traditional musical ensembles, accompanying the chariot across a two-kilometre route.

Court Restrictions Sidestepped by Devotee-Organised Events

Meanwhile, as per the court’s directives, ‘Sarathi Baba’ has been restricted from conducting spiritual discourses or participating in congregational gatherings (satsangs) due to his controversial past and legal constraints.

However, his devotees appear to be navigating these restrictions by organising such events independently, without his physical or vocal involvement.

Witnesses in the area also reported that food and water were served to all present, and prasad was distributed following the ceremony. Organisers claimed that devotees from several towns and villages across Odisha had attended the function.

In another controversial move, devotees referred to ‘Sarathi Baba’ as ‘Mahaprabhu’ (Supreme God) and claimed that the event was in his reverence.

“Not only in Odisha but across India, several followers of Mahaprabhu Sarathi Baba are organising satsangs and singing his praises. We aim to attract divine guidance through this,” said Prasanta Kumar Mohapatra, an organiser of the event.

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Sarathi Baba Silent, Devotees Claim Personal Initiative

Notably, there has been no public statement from Sarathi Baba or any known organisers about the event. While the programme did not feature any speech or physical appearance by him, the event itself mimicked a structured religious campaign.

Locals and observers described it as a ‘devotee-driven initiative' to keep the spiritual connection alive in Sarathi Baba’s absence. “Even if he cannot speak or gather followers directly, we can honour him through our faith,” said one participant, under the condition of anonymity.

The event's scale and structure, however, have triggered debate about whether such activities indirectly flout the spirit of the court order, even if technically compliant. Many also claimed that this was a blatant and direct violation of court orders.

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Sensitive Past, Legal Oversight Remains Crucial

Notably, ‘Sarathi Baba’ had come under intense public and legal scrutiny several years ago for alleged misconduct and was subsequently arrested. Though released on bail, he remains under legal monitoring and is not permitted to resume spiritual leadership in any public capacity.

As of now, no official complaint or administrative action has been reported in connection with the June 12 event.