Shirva: Christian man builds Siddhivinayak temple, gifts it to Hindus

Shirva: A 77-year-old Christian man spread the message of harmony by building a  Siddhivinayak temple worth Rs 2 Crore near Katpadi Shirva main road and gifting it to Hindus

Gabriel Fabian Nazareth, resident of Halehithlu near Shirva is a devotee of Siddhivanayak

It is said that in 1959, at the age of 14, he completed his schooling and went to Mumbai. He resided near Prabhadevi Sri Siddhivinayaka temple. He worshipped Sri Siddhivinayak daily and worked hard to earn his living.

He then established a plastic and metal dye-making workshop near the temple. In 40 years, he established three branches of his workshop

Later, he sold his business in Mumbai and settled in his hometown. 12 years later, he built the Sri Siddhivinayak temple in the 12 cents land  he received from his father

Religious programmes will be held at the temple under the guidance of Sri Palimaru Mutt Pontiff on May 2 and on May 4, Sri Siddhivanayak Pratishte, Bhramhakalasha rituals will be held.

Gabriel, who is unmarried, has donated money to several people, irrespective of caste or religion. He also donates  Rs 5 lakhs per year for the education of poor children.

Speaking about the temple, Gabriel said, ” I have been worshipping Sri Siddhivanayak for 60 years. I have not received donations from anyone to build this temple. I would like to gift this temple to Hindus and dedicate this temple to my  late parents Fabian Sebestian Nazareth and Sabina Nazareth”