Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (MS)
Mumbai, Jan 3: The newly established astrology center of renowned astrologer and internationally acclaimed vastu expert, Ashok Purohit, was inaugurated in an event marked by grandeur and cultural significance at Vakola, Santacruz East. The inauguration took place on December 29, under the auspices of Sri Vidyaprasanna Tirtha Swamiji of Sri Kukke Subrahmanya Math, who conducted the rituals and lit the ceremonial lamp.
Speaking at the event, Dr Stapathi K Dakshinamurthy, a member of the Heritage Experts Committee and managing trustee of the Vastu Vedik Trust, emphasized the need for political representation of the Vishwakarma community in Parliament. "Ashok Purohit, with the immense support he garners across communities, has the potential to bridge this gap and become a strong representative in Parliament or the Rajya Sabha," he said.
The event drew esteemed guests from various walks of life, including Praveen Bhoja Shetty, president of Mumbai Bunts Association, and others from the UAE and Karnataka. Dr Dakshinamurthy lauded Purohit’s contributions to society and congratulated him on his relentless efforts to uplift and unify communities through his guidance and expertise.
Ashok Purohit, in his welcome speech, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to attendees who had travelled from across the globe to grace the occasion. He particularly commended the leadership of former Thane Mayor Meenakshi Shinde, highlighting her remarkable contributions to societal reform.
The gathering was also addressed by other dignitaries who praised Purohit's astrology and vastu expertise, recognizing his accurate guidance that transcends caste and religious boundaries. Praveen Bhoja Shetty noted, "The turnout at this event speaks volumes of Ashok Purohit's reputation and the trust he commands among his followers, including those from Gulf nations who admire his work and guidance."
The grand ceremony included a Bharatnatyam performance by Amoolya Acharya and traditional prayers conducted by Raghavendra Bhat and others. The evening was concluded with the felicitation of the guests, including Ashok Purohit and his family, who were commended for their contributions to the field of astrology and their service to society.
Notably, the event also featured video messages from dignitaries like Dr Arun Yogiraj, the sculptor of the sacred Ayodhya Ram idol, who regrettably could not attend due to prior commitments but extended his heartfelt wishes and support.
Sri Vidyaprasanna Tirtha Swamiji commended Purohit for his dedication and service to astrology, remarking, “Astrology is a guiding light for mankind, illuminating the path forward even in darkness. May Purohit continue to guide those in need and receive the blessings of Lord Subrahmanya and Narasimha.”
Guruji Umesh Acharya, President of Mumbai Bunt Sangha, Praveen Bhoja Shetty (President of Mumbai Bunt Sangha), Sarvottama Shetty (President of Abu Dhabi Karnataka Sangha and UAE Bunts), Harish Sherigar (Owner of ACME Building Material Company), Meenakshi Shinde (Former Mayor of Thane), Hurlady Raghuveer A Shetty (Social Worker, Karnataka/Mumbai), Chandrashekhara Palethady (Editor, Karnataka Malla Daily), Anni C Shetty (Trustee, Sri Mookambika Temple, Gansoli), Srinivas P Sapalya (President, Sapalya Seva Sangha, Mumbai), Dr Surendra Kumar Hegde (President, Kannadiga Kalavidara Parishad, Mumbai), Laxmi Kotian (Chairperson, Sri Krishna Vittala Foundation, Mumbai), Tonse Vijayakumar Shetty (Kala Jagathu, Mumbai), Dharmadarshi Dev Poojary (Asalpa Sri Dattatreya Durgambika Temple), Jayesh Sompura (IT Consultant, Santacruz), Sadananda Acharya (Former President, Vishwakarma Association, Mumbai), Suresh Kanchan (President, Mogaveera Mahajana Seva Sangha, Mumbai), Suryakanta Suvarna (President, Bharat Cooperative Bank, Mumbai), Raviraj Shetty (General Secretary, UAE Bunts), Krishna Shettigar (Padmashali Sangha), L V Amin (Former President, Billava Association, Mumbai), Jayakrishna Shetty (Founder, Jayakrishna Parisara Premi Samiti), Naveen Padu Inna (Founder President, Kamala Kala Vedike), Shyama N. Shetty (Social Worker), Nagwan, Ramesh Sawant, Karnoor Mohan Rai, Kadri Suresh Kumar, Damodara Acharya, Suresh K, and Jayanti Ullal were among the distinguished guests.
In the evening, a procession of the guests took place from 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm, followed by the symbolic opening of the office. Later, a felicitation ceremony for the guests was held.
Dr Dakshinamurthy, Ashok Purohit and his family, as well as other distinguished guests, were specially felicitated. Naveen Padu Inna and supporters of Kamala Kala Vedike felicitated Ashok Purohit and his family.
Amulya Acharya presented a Bharatanatyam performance. Raghavendra Bhat led the prayers, Chethan Purohit performed the Veda Ghosha, and Sandhya Chethan conducted the Ganesha Stuti.
Chinmay and Karnoor Mohan Rai served as the event's comperes and also delivered the vote of thanks.