“Preserving Ancient Temples is a Vital Task” – Dr. Virupaksha Shivacharya

Pune: Instead of constructing new temples merely for financial gain, restoring and maintaining historically significant temples is a more important task, stated Sadguru Dr. Virupaksha Shivacharya of Manmathdham Sansthan, Kapildhar.

Dr. Shivacharya, along with Sat Samaj Satmargi Akhada’s International Mahamandaleshwar Shri Shri 1008 Ramnagiri Guru Maunagiri Ji Maharaj, Shri Kshetra Mukhed’s Shabr 108 Virupaksha Shivacharya, and Mahant 108 Shri Janeshwaranand Giri Ji Maharaj, performed the Kalasharohan (sacred dome installation) ceremony of the Uma Maheshwar Temple in front of Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Pune.

This temple was built in 1817 during the late Peshwa era by Sardar Ganpatrao Natu. Over time, his descendant Leena Alekar entrusted the temple’s upkeep and management to the Hindustan Jagaran Trust through a formal bequest. The trust undertook the restoration of the temple and organized this Kalasharohan ceremony.

Dr. Shivacharya commended the Hindustan Jagaran Trust for its efforts in restoring and managing the Uma Maheshwar Temple, emphasizing that preserving ancient temples is a far greater service than constructing new ones for commercial purposes. He also expressed concern over the growing commercialization of temples, calling it a tragic reality of modern society.

He urged devotees to focus on self-improvement with a pure heart rather than engaging in criticism or hatred. He also encouraged them to contribute to the progress of society and the nation.

Other spiritual leaders present at the event also shared their insights. Individuals who contributed significantly to the temple restoration were honored by Vinayak Thorat, President of the Hindustan Jagaran Trust. Rajendra Walekar hosted the event, and Kailas Sontakke, the trust’s secretary, delivered the vote of thanks.