Bhopal: Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the head of Bageshwar Dham, has once again landed in controversy over his recent statements. This time, the issue stems from a claim he made during a podcast interview with a national news channel.

During the conversation, Shastri stated that the world’s most prestigious universities are now offering research and PhD programs on topics like “paranormal,” “ghosts,” and “supernatural powers.” He further claimed that information about these courses is available on the internet, and anyone can verify that Oxford and Cambridge Universities have started courses in Paranormal Studies. He also announced that he himself plans to pursue a PhD in the paranormal field in the future.

Following his statement, numerous videos and posts went viral on social media. Many supporters celebrated it as “global acceptance of Sanatan knowledge.” However, when The Mooknayak’s investigation team conducted a factual examination of these claims, a completely different picture emerged.

Oxford and Cambridge Universities reject the claims

To ascertain the truth, The Mooknayak team directly contacted Oxford and Cambridge Universities in England. Official emails were sent to both institutions asking:

1. Whether they offer any official PhD programs or academic courses on "paranormal," "ghosts," "spirits," or "supernatural powers."

2. Whether Dhirendra Krishna Shastri had applied for or taken admission in any such program.

Oxford University’s Response:
A representative named Marcus from Oxford University clearly stated that the university does NOT conduct any such courses. In response to the question about paranormal studies, the answer was a direct “No.” Regarding the query about Shastri’s application, the university said it would forward the question to its Freedom of Information (FOI) department.

Cambridge University’s Response:
Similarly, Cambridge University also clarified that it does NOT run any course of this nature.

No evidence found on university websites or the internet

The investigation team thoroughly examined the official websites, course catalogs, research departments, and available PhD programs of both universities. The investigation found that while research is conducted in subjects like psychology, religious studies, philosophy, neuroscience, and cultural studies, there is no official academic course on “ghosts,” “communicating with spirits,” or “paranormal powers.”

No document, press release, departmental notification, or research program was found anywhere that could prove that Oxford or Cambridge Universities are starting a “PhD on ghosts.”

Experts note that while some institutions worldwide do offer limited academic studies on topics like “belief systems,” “supernatural beliefs,” or “parapsychology,” these are never presented as courses that scientifically prove the existence of ghosts.

However, no official document or university announcement has emerged to support these claims. Experts say that in the age of social media, statements made on public platforms go viral without fact-checking and are later established as “truth” among the masses.

Questions raised on scientific temper and public responsibility

Experts believe that research at prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge is based on scientific methodology, academic peer review, and evidence-based study. Claims like a “PhD on ghosts” are misleading without official documents.

Dhirendra Krishna Shastri has millions of followers, and his statements reach a massive audience. Therefore, factual responsibility becomes extremely crucial when making claims about international universities and scientific institutions on public platforms. According to experts, unsubstantiated claims not only create confusion but also send the wrong message about the credibility of science and academic institutions.

A Graduate aiming for a direct PhD?

In the same interview, Dhirendra Krishna Shastri himself stated that he has only completed his graduation (BA). In that conversation, he also said he was considering doing a PhD in the future. Publicly available information also suggests his education is only up to graduation.

However, this raises questions about the education system, as per standard university regulations in India, a Master’s degree is generally required for admission to a PhD program. Most universities do not allow direct PhD entry after a BA. This raises the question of whether Shastri is fully aware of the higher education process and PhD admission rules, as his claim of doing a PhD directly after a BA does not align with standard academic practice.

Earlier too, Shastri has been surrounded by controversies regarding his miracles, alleged divine powers, and public statements. Various rationalist organizations and social activists have challenged his claims from time to time.

Previously, questions had also been raised about his claims regarding purported conversations with NASA and scientists. With the investigation into his latest statement about “Paranormal PhDs” at Oxford and Cambridge, this controversy has once again come into the spotlight.