WARRENTON, GA (TIP): Shashi Bhushan Mocherla, an Indian-origin US citizen and the Founder, Trustee, and CEO of Siddhashram of North America, has secured 500 acres of land in Warrenton, Georgia to preserve and promote Sanatana Dharma. This expansive project aims to establish a Hindu Temple and Center of Excellence.
Mocherla’s vision includes the construction of a 108-foot-tall statue of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, along with 108 havan kunds (sacred fire pits), Vedic farming, gurukuls (traditional educational institutions), a Vedic library, a Gaushala (cow shelter), and various other facilities.
The statue of Adi Shankaracharya is expected to be a major attraction, symbolizing human equality and the teachings of the revered philosopher. The statue’s construction is estimated to cost around 200 crore rupees (approximately $27 million), and research is underway to ensure its successful completion.
The Siddhashram of North America (Shangri-La) aims to be a world-class Spiritual Retreat Center, guiding individuals on the path of righteousness through mantra sadhana, meditation, Ayurveda, yoga, ancient sciences, wellness, and spiritual retreats, according to its website. With the blessings of His Holiness Paramahamsa Parivrajakacharya Courtallam Sankaracharya Sri Sri Sri Siddheswarananda Bharati MahaSwamiji and Her Holiness Sri Sakthi Peethadeeswari Mantra Maheshwari Mataji Sri Sri Sri Ramyananda Bharati Swamini, the center aspires to preserve, propagate, and promote Sanatana Dharma.
The project includes temples, yoga centers, traditional agricultural fields, healthcare facilities, a museum promoting ancient wisdom, and Vedic educational institutions. The vision extends to creating a self-sufficient energy farm utilizing geo-thermal, wind, and solar sources, along with commercial retail shops, tools workshops, and storage.
This initiative is expected to generate full-time employment for a minimum of 150 individuals, supply natural energy to Washington EMC or other distributing entities, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development goals of Warrenton, Warren County, and the State of Georgia.
The project, estimated to cost up to 40 million, aims to build an eco-friendly, carbon-neutral, and environmentally safe ashram.
Adi Shankaracharya, revered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva, left an indelible mark on Indian philosophy and spirituality. His teachings on Advaita (non-dualism) and his efforts to unify diverse schools of thought have had a lasting impact. The establishment of the 108-foot statue and the accompanying cultural and educational facilities will serve as a tribute to his legacy, promoting the timeless principles of Sanatana Dharma.
The project has reportedly received good cooperation from the US government and aims to involve Indian residents in the US, Americans, and other nationals. The organizers hope to hold the grand celebration of the project’s completion in the presence of spiritual leaders, prime ministers, and national leaders.
Sri Shashi Bhushan Mocherla’s efforts and knowledge in Mantra Shastra, ancient scriptures, astrology, and Vaastu reflect his dedication to his guru’s mission of preserving Sanatana Dharma, says his bio on the center’s website. “His passion for seva (selfless service) and spiritual guidance has inspired many to contribute to this monumental project, making it a beacon of spiritual and cultural enlightenment in the United States.”