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Seer of political fortunes
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Popular amongst politicians and film actors alike, K.N. Somayaji is unperturbed by fame and recognition. For this religious consultant, astrology is more a science than a career choice, says K. Satyamurty.
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K.N. Somayaji: 'I am not a godman. I only guide people and believe that faith in God is important.'
"POLITICIANS AND film actors are more self-centred and ambitious than others," says this soft-spoken man who considers himself a scholar of astrology. Perhaps that was the reason he was among those invited to be present at the swearing-in ceremony of the Chief Minister, N. Dharam Singh.
K.N. Somayaji, the Dharmadhikari of the Sri Sringeri Shankara Math, has been researching ancient texts of scriptures, astrology and ayurveda for many years now. He claims to be a self-taught man and can converse freely in ten languages.
Though popular in political circles, he prefers to keep a low profile.
"Many VIPs seek my advice. But I believe there should be a certain degree of confidentiality in such meetings. Many of them disclose their personal problems and I can't squander their trust," Mr. Somayaji explains.
"I don't like seeing astrology and Vaastu consultants posing for photographs for the sake of publicity. But I don't shy away from the media when it is necessary. In fact, I am addicted to my morning newspaper," he says with a smile.
Mr. Somyaji's day starts well before dawn and after all the rituals that orthodox religion demands, he makes time for those who come to consult him.
"Politicians come to me with two questions — whether they will get a ministerial berth and if so will it be an important portfolio."
Irrespective of their political affiliation, several politicians consulted him before the recent elections.
With film stars, the questions are different. "They want to know which film would help them become successful and when they will be acknowledged as the best actors."
The new mantra of the day, however, is "corporate astrology." Industrialists frequently consult Mr. Somyaji about the prospects of reviving sick industries. "They ask for advice on corporate mergers and acquisitions as well," he says.
But when it comes to the stock market, he prefers to play it safe.
Mr. Somayaji devotes much of his time to the Kalpatharu Research Academy, which he helped establish in 1981.
Dedicated to research and learning of the Vedas and Agama Sastras, the academy has translated and published many rare ancient texts. He is also an editor with the Rashtriya Panchanga, published by the Government of India.
Despite his learning, he does not consider himself to be special. "I am not a godman. I only guide people and believe that faith in God is more important than anything else. Irrespective of good or bad fortune, I urge people not to lose confidence."
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Life
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Thiruvananthapuram
|
