Purshottamdas H Purohit

  Purshottamdas H. Purohit was a karmayogi, an unsung freedom fighter, a visionary entrepreneur, and a devoted philanthropist. He was a man who lived a life devoted to hard work and selfless service to all sections of society

He was born on August 2, 1920, into a Rajpurohit (Brahmin) family in Basant, Pali, Rajasthan. He lost his father at the age of three and was raised by his mother. Due to limited resources for farming, he moved to Mumbai at the tender age of ten in search of a livelihood. Through dedication and hard work, he eventually earned recognition as a noted chef.

His exceptional culinary skills were acknowledged when he was chosen to accompany his employers as head chef on a business tour to Europe in 1939. This tour, originally brief, was extended to four years due to the outbreak of World War II. His travels through countries such as Italy, England, France, Austria and Germany broadened his worldview, though he remained deeply connected to his roots.

During his time in Europe, he met his hero, Bharat Ratna Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and became affiliated with the Azad Hind movement. His growing involvement led him to become a trusted confidant of Netaji. He played a discreet yet vital role in the movement, seeing it as his duty to the Nation. The story of India’s freedom is built on the silent sacrifices of heroes like him.

After independence, he started a modest lodging and boarding venture in Mumbai, which he developed into the renowned Adarsh Group of Hotels. This included Adarsh Lodge, Adarsh Hotel, Adarsh Palace, Adarsh Mahal and Adarsh Baug. As a visionary entrepreneur, he created employment opportunities in both Mumbai and Rajasthan, promoting economic growth and improving lives. His commitment to service and excellence earned him loyal clients from diverse communities.

He channelled his energy and resources towards the upliftment of society, particularly the underprivileged. Whether responding to natural disasters such as floods and droughts or offering support during periods of social unrest, he consistently extended help. He also collaborated actively with Government bodies, including the Municipal Corporation, Police, and the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority.

Greatly inspired by the ideologies of Bharat Ratna Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Bharat Ratna Lal Bahadur Shastri, he celebrated ‘Shastri Jayanti’ each year at Adarsh Hotel. Recognising his commitment to social welfare, the Government of Maharashtra appointed him Justice of the Peace and Special Executive Magistrate.

Although he could not pursue formal education, he was a strong advocate of educating the younger generation. To advance this cause, he contributed towards building a hostel in Falna, Rajasthan, offering a safe and encouraging environment for students. He also provided financial assistance to many aspiring learners.

In 1989, he founded the P. H. Purohit (Rawat Singh) Charitable Trust. Today, the trust continues to operate following his values.