The Asthika Samaj was set up as a place of public worship in Matunga, Mumbai, India, in the year 1923 by adorning the sacred hall with a portrait of Lord Sree Ramachandra. Eventually, in 1953 with the blessings of His Holiness Jagadguru Sree Sankaracharya Swamigal of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, the Temple attained full-fledged status by installation of idols of Lord Sree Ramachandra, Sitadevi, Lakshmanan and Hanuman in a specially created Garbhagriha.
The historical importance of the place can be traced from that the place, now known as Matunga, was previously the abode of Mathangarishi who, after performing the Mahayagnas on the banks of Pumpa acquired the coveted status of Maharishi. As a vestige of the ancient past, the banyan tree exists even to this date fulfilling the desires of thousands of devotees. The spiritual growth of the Samaj over the years, coupled with the full support of the devotees enabled the installation of other deities - Lord Karthikeyan (1965) Navagraha Idols (1967) Lord Kochu Guruvayurappan (1974) and Swamy Ayyappan (1978). The religious festivals are held throughout the year. The daily poojas are conducted strictly by Vedic, Tantric and Agama scriptures.
The Samaj has also a Kalyana Mandapam within the premises with modern facilities in the name of Sree Sita Rama Kalyana Mandapam which is one of the best facility to devotees and the general public for conducting marriages, Upanayanam and any religious or social functions.
Today, The Asthika Samaj, Matunga is established center of the religious and cultural life of Mumbai. The Samaj owes its present status to the loyal support of the members, devotees and the public at large.
