Indian-Origin Visionary to Establish Landmark Hindu Temple and Spiritual Retreat in Georgia, USA

Shashi Bhushan Mocherla, an Indian-origin US citizen, is the Founder, Trustee, and CEO of Siddhashram of North America. He has taken a significant step to preserve and promote Sanatana Dharma by securing 500 acres of land in Warrenton, Georgia. This ambitious project is set to establish a Hindu Temple and Center of Excellence, aimed at fostering the spiritual and cultural heritage of Hinduism.

A key feature of Mocherla’s vision is the construction of a towering 108-foot statue of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya, a revered philosopher known for his teachings on Advaita (non-dualism). This statue, along with 108 havan kunds (sacred fire pits), will be a focal point of the project. The development will also include Vedic farming, gurukuls (traditional educational institutions), a Vedic library, a Gaushala (cow shelter), and numerous other facilities that support the teachings of Sanatana Dharma.

The statue of Adi Shankaracharya is intended to symbolize human equality and his enduring teachings. The estimated cost of the statue is around 200 crore rupees, which is approximately $27 million. Comprehensive research is being conducted to ensure the successful execution of this monumental structure.

The Siddhashram of North America, also referred to as Shangri-La, is envisioned as a world-class Spiritual Retreat Center. According to its website, the center will guide individuals on the path of righteousness through various spiritual practices, including mantra sadhana, meditation, Ayurveda, yoga, and ancient sciences. The center is being developed 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 aim is to preserve, propagate, and promote Sanatana Dharma through this initiative.

The project encompasses a range of facilities that support its spiritual mission. These include temples, yoga centers, traditional agricultural fields, healthcare facilities, a museum dedicated to ancient wisdom, and Vedic educational institutions. Mocherla’s vision extends to creating a self-sufficient energy farm that utilizes geo-thermal, wind, and solar power sources. Additionally, the development will include commercial retail shops, tools workshops, and storage facilities.

This project is anticipated to have a significant socio-economic impact, creating full-time employment for at least 150 individuals. It is also expected to supply natural energy to Washington EMC or other distributing entities, aligning with the broader socio-economic development goals of Warrenton, Warren County, and the State of Georgia. The overall cost of the project is estimated to reach up to $40 million, with a strong emphasis on building an eco-friendly, carbon-neutral, and environmentally safe ashram.

Adi Shankaracharya, who is revered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva, made an indelible mark on Indian philosophy and spirituality. His teachings on Advaita and efforts to unify various schools of thought have left a lasting legacy. The construction of the 108-foot statue, along with the accompanying cultural and educational facilities, will honor his contributions and promote the timeless principles of Sanatana Dharma.

The project has reportedly received strong support from the US government and aims to engage not only Indian residents in the US but also Americans and other nationals. The organizers are hopeful that the project’s completion will be marked by a grand celebration, attended by spiritual leaders, prime ministers, and national figures.

According to the center’s website, Sri Shashi Bhushan Mocherla’s deep knowledge in Mantra Shastra, ancient scriptures, astrology, and Vaastu is a testament to his commitment to preserving Sanatana Dharma. His dedication to his guru’s mission and his passion for seva (selfless service) have inspired many to contribute to this monumental project. The website describes the initiative as “a beacon of spiritual and cultural enlightenment in the United States.” This reflects the broader vision of the project, which seeks to create a lasting impact on spiritual and cultural practices both in the US and globally.