Tributes are pouring in for long-time Bahrain resident Vasant Rupchand Asarpota, who died last week in Manama.
The 67-year-old Indian expatriate had a heart attack while at the Shrinathji Shri Krishna Temple, where he had become a recognisable figure, spending decades serving the community.
“He had volunteered at the temple for as long as I knew him and he was as dedicated to it as he was to work,” Mr Asarpota’s friend and colleague Latesh Chandra told the GDN.
“He was at the temple with some of the committee members when he had a heart attack and passed away soon after.”
Born and brought up in Mumbai, India, Mr Asarpota moved to Bahrain in 1982, beginning a job at Ambassador Stores, where he worked until his final days.
Mr Asarpota worked as a senior audio technician, regularly installing professional sound systems around the kingdom.
“Even in his job, he helped the communities he came in contact with,” Mr Chandra added.
“He would be called to ma’atams where he installed and fixed the sound systems. Many of the Bahrainis even lovingly called him Hassan.”
Mr Asarpota remained unmarried in his life, choosing to dedicate himself to a life of service to those around him.
At his work, however, he was seen as a father figure by Mr Chandra and others in the department, managing the audio workshop singlehandedly while still training them to be integral employees in the company.
And when he clocked off work, he continued his service, volunteering alongside Mr Chandra and serving sacred food (prasad) to devotees at the temple.
“His unwavering dedication, humility, and more than 40 years of selfless service to the temple and the community will always be remembered with deep gratitude and respect,” temple honorary secretary Mahendra Bhatia added.
“His legacy of seva (Hindi: service) and devotion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
In addition to his mother back home in India, Mr Asarpota also leaves behind a brother, Rajkumar, as well as two sisters Anu Bhatia and Mala Bhatia.
He was cremated on Friday in Askar.
A condolence meeting will be held today evening at the Shrinathji Shri Krishna Temple’s THMC Auditorium from 5pm to 5.30pm.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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