What you see – There isn’t much to talk with respect to what you see as Shripad’s magical massages are done at the patient’s home. Shripad was a trained diamond grader and a good one at that.  But the art of Ayurvedic massages and their age old benefits always fascinated him. So he got himself trained under the expertise of Vaidya Nirmalatai Rajwade, founder of Atre hospital. He started with a few clients at his home but with word of mouth his massages came to be known as magical. So that’s how his technique carries the name of Shripad’s Magical Massages.

What you get – Shripad Chitale is a freelance massage therapist for men and women. His unique style of massaging incorporates basic traditional Ayurvedic techniques as well as some newly invented techniques with chanting of Vedic mantras. His treatments consist of the use of herbal remedies, specialized massages using herb-infused specific oils, and nutritional advice adapted to bring balance to a person’s individual constitution along with specially selected yoga exercises. The oils, strokes and herbs and the specific energy points would vary from person to person.

MetroMela was told that the benefits of these massages are many. In stressful times of today, related complaints like headaches, upset stomach, rashes, insomnia, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even a stroke are ever increasing.  These massages are great to bring in peace of mind and body as it helps rapid recovery and delivers some of the benefits of exercising too. That’s not all. It tones muscles, increases circulation, relieves blockage that interferes with nutrition to tissues, stimulates capillaries, releases endorphins and eases tension. At the end of it one feels rejuvenated with its therapeutic benefits.

Each session that lasts for an hour costs about Rs. 450 and needs to done once a week for long term benefits.

Shripad’s clientele comprises Hindustani classical vocalist Bhimsen Joshi, scientist Jayant Naralikar, actor Nana Patekar and politician Rajsaheb Thackarey. Even renowned specialist doctors of the city like radiologist Arun Kinare and cardiologist Sunil Sathe are a part of the list.

Our verdict - The childlike laughter, animated talks and the unbridled enthusiasm of Shripad Chitale is contagious. And when you see him interacting with his clients, one can’t help noticing the camaraderie shared between them that is possible through personal care and attention. The therapist has also traveled abroad extensively and undertakes seminars, workshops and demonstrations aplenty. You can avail of his services by appointment only.