Self-styled godman ‘Sarathi Baba’ followers gather in Bhubaneswar for his birthday celebrations, flout court orders

A large group of followers of self-styled godman Santosh Raul, known as Sarathi Baba to his followers, gathered in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday to celebrate his birthday through puja, bhajans and dance performances, despite earlier court-imposed restrictions on public gatherings and devotional events in his name.

According to sources, devotees placed photographs of ‘Sarathi Baba’ on decorated altars, lit incense and lamps, and offered puja as part of the observance.

Many were seen dancing to songs dedicated to the godman and recounting so-called miracle stories associated with him. Sources said the celebrations also included devotional singing, kirtans, and food distribution for the needy.

Celebration Marks First Major Gathering Since Release

Notably, this gathering marked one of the largest congregations of Raul’s ‘followers’ in the state capital in recent years. The self-styled spiritual leader was arrested in 2015 and later released after serving a jail term in connection with multiple criminal cases.

While his followers have since been largely inactive in public, the event today comes across as the first visible mass gathering since his release.

Court Restrictions Flouted

It is worth noting that the Orissa High Court had earlier imposed restrictions on public gatherings, satsangs, and devotional activities involving Raul’s name or image, citing concerns over law and order.

Despite this, groups of followers were seen openly participating in rituals and dance programmes, suggesting renewed activity among his devotees and an open disobedience to the court’s orders.

Police are yet to offer any comments regarding the incident.

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Similar Gathering In Mayurbhanj Earlier This Year

A similar instance of non-compliance was reported in June 2025, when followers organised a symbolic Rath Yatra and satsang in Mayurbhanj district. Over a hundred devotees reportedly paraded a framed photograph and wooden sandals of ‘Sarathi Baba’ on a decorated chariot, accompanied by traditional dance troupes and musicians, despite the continuing judicial restrictions.

However, no such event of this scale was held in Bhubaneswar since Raul’s arrest.