This Article is From Nov 08, 2011

Swami Agnivesh on Bigg Boss: 'It's not about the money'

Swami Agnivesh on Bigg Boss: 'It's not about the money'
Mumbai: Activist Swami Agnivesh held a press conference this morning in Mumbai to explain what prompted him to join reality show Bigg Boss.

The 74-year-old activist enters the Bigg Boss house tonight, but says he is a guest and not a participant.  He also says he is not being paid for his appearance on the show.   Swami Agnivesh exited the anti-corruption movement fronted by Anna Hazare after a public and bitter falling out.  

Highlights:

  • Was approached 5 days ago by show producers
  • Saw many episodes
  • Didn't see anything objectionable
  • See it as a powerful medium to reach the youth with my message
  • Not interested in the money
  • I want to help introduce change in society
  • People fight on the show but no worse than how MPs sometimes behave
  • Hoping through the program will be able to remove the negativity in people's minds
  • People need a guru and this is a good way to reach people
  • Religion today has too much dogmatism and ritualism.  
  • Glad Anna is talking about changes in his team . I was saying this all along as well. Should be greater transparency and accountability even among us
  • We may exchange allegations (on Team Anna) but we are all working towards the same goal - ending corruption
  • I am hoping I will not be asked to dance
  • I am not a contestant. I am a guest 
  • Want to address social evils like dowry deaths, female foeticide, hunger deaths

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