Hindu Community Inaugurates Temple

October 27, 2009

Author: Jim Tatum

Source: The Berkeley Independent

http://www.berkeleyind.com/culture/Hindu-community-inaugurates-temple2009-10-27T06-08-17

Indian Americans living in the Lowcountry now have a place to gather, worship, and pass on cultural heritage, thanks to the efforts of a dedicated group of people.

Some 325 people came together last week to celebrate two important events: the Inauguration of the Hindu Temple of Charleston, and Deepavali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.

The temple, located on College Park Road in Ladson next to the Harvest Center Church, is the first Hindu Temple in the Lowcountry and one of five in the state. It will serve as a place of worship, education, and cultural promotion for some 400 families in this area, said executive committee member Peyush Dwivedi.

Worshippers of all ages and backgrounds gathered about 3:30 p.m. for the ceremonies, which included a cultural presentation done by some of the children, prayers, a celebratory dinner, and fireworks.

“This is a very important holiday for us,” Dwivedi said.

“We have finally secured a place where we can carry out our religious and cultural functions,” noted Dr. Shikhar Mehrotrah, a member of the executive committee. He also noted that the temple could only thrive if everyone becomes involved.