In February 2025, 10-year-old spiritual content creator Abhinav Arora, often referred to as “Bal Sant,” found himself at the center of an online debate after attending the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. A video shared on his Instagram account showcased him holding a black Dior backpack moments before taking a holy dip at the Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.
The sight of a young spiritual influencer carrying a luxury designer bag during one of India’s most sacred events sparked mixed reactions among netizens. Some viewers expressed confusion and amusement, while others raised concerns about the perceived contradiction between his spiritual persona and the display of material wealth.
Further fueling the controversy were claims that the Dior bag, identified by some as the “Dior Hit The Road Backpack,” was crafted from black coated canvas with CD diamond print and black smooth calfskin. In Hinduism, the cow holds a sacred status, and many devout Hindus avoid the use of leather products, especially those made from calfskin. This led to outrage among certain sections of the online community, who questioned the appropriateness of carrying such an item to a religious gathering.
In response to the backlash, Abhinav Arora issued a statement to clarify the situation. He categorically denied using any leather products, including the bag in question. “The said bag is made out of fabric canvas and not calfskin. I don’t use leather at all, even in my footwear. I will never do that in my lifetime,” he stated. He emphasized his commitment to a lifestyle aligned with his spiritual beliefs, rejecting the use of animal-derived materials.
Addressing concerns about materialism, Abhinav explained that while he leads a family-centered social life and performs religious rituals, he does not claim to be a saint but identifies as a devotee and spiritual orator. He stated, “Whatever I do, I don’t hide. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have taken the said bag to Sangam where 2 crore people took bath on Magh Purnima.” This assertion highlights his transparency and intent to integrate his personal possessions with his public spiritual activities.
Despite the clarification, discussions continued online. Some users defended Abhinav, pointing out that owning luxury items does not necessarily contradict one’s spiritual journey. Others remained critical, suggesting that such displays could undermine the message of simplicity often associated with spiritual leadership.
The incident underscores the complex interplay between spirituality and materialism in the digital age. As spiritual influencers like Abhinav Arora gain prominence on social media platforms, their personal choices and possessions are subjected to public scrutiny, reflecting broader societal debates about authenticity, tradition, and modernity.
In conclusion, while Abhinav Arora’s appearance with a Dior bag at the Mahakumbh Mela ignited controversy, his prompt response aimed to clarify misconceptions and reaffirm his commitment to his spiritual path. The episode serves as a reminder of the nuanced challenges faced by public figures navigating the intersection of personal expression and public expectation in contemporary society.
