Upendra Kumar Purohit (right) served as a priest at Shree Geeta Bhawan in Handsworth for 39 years (Image: Shree Geeta Bhawan (right) Google Maps (left))

'Devoted' member of Birmingham's Hindu community dies as locals 'still can't believe it'

by · Birmingham Live

A 'devoted husband and father' who was revered in Birmingham's Hindu community has died. Upendra Kumar Purohit served as a priest at Shree Geeta Bhawan in Handsworth for 39 years, before his death on December 2 aged 74.

The priest dedicated his life to the service of others, according to temple trustees who praised his work as a spiritual guide, astrologer, and singer of devotional songs. Messages of condolences flooded the temple's Facebook page.

Trustees of Shree Geeta Bhawan posted a statement yesterday saying: "Dear Devotees, it is with a heavy heart that we write this note following the passing of Shri Upendra ji who was not only a devoted husband but a devoted father and a revered figure within our Hindu community.

READ MORE: Birmingham Labour councillor quits party with angry swipe at city leaders and Keir Starmer

"As you are aware, he served as a Hindu priest at Shree Geeta Bhawan for 39 years, dedicating his life to the service of others with unwavering integrity, honesty, and devotion. His contributions as a spiritual guide, astrologer, and singer of devotional songs have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"His pure heart, and his beautiful soul were a testament to his character and commitment. The loss of Shri Upendra Ji is profoundly felt by the entire Hindu community.

Prayers at Shree Geeta Bhawan (Image: Husna Anjum)

"His presence was a cornerstone of our temple, and his absence will be deeply mourned by all who knew him, especially by our head priest Shri Dharm Dutt ji to whom he was not only a colleague but acted like an elder brother supporting him with utmost commitment in organising large religious functions at Shree Geeta Bhawan.

"He was a man of great energy and warmth, never speaking ill of anyone, and always approachable and kind-hearted. We, the entire committee of Shree Geeta Bhawan, are here to support Upenrda Ji’s family during this difficult time and to ensure his legacy will be carried out with the respect and dignity he so richly deserves."

The Heathfield Road Temple offers many community services alongside prayers, also serving as a wedding hall. It offers Hindi lessons and a 50-plus club, as well as Covid tests during the pandemic.

The funeral took place yesterday, Wednesday, December 11, and was streamed live on Facebook. Comments included: "A true gentleman who will forever live on in our hearts."

Another user wrote: "Dedicated to service - may you reap the benefits now."

Another said: "May God rest pandit soul, he wasn't just a priest but was a good family friend, our elder." Many users commented 'Om Shanti Om', which in Hinduism is an invocation for peace.