Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/129120_cwong02.html

On July 2, 2003 the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reported that "for Hindus in the Northwest, [the Hindu Temple and Cultural Center] has become a central place to worship a supreme being and focus on the different deities who symbolize this God and non-violence, prosperity, good health, respect and knowing right from wrong... But the largest Hindu temple in the area is also a place for young and old, immigrant and American-born alike, to be part of a community... That aspect -- the temple as meeting place -- is important, said volunteer Karan Soi, 51, of Redmond. 'Otherwise, you will be a leaf floating in the river...' The dream for this temple started 18 years ago, said Vijay Vashee, temple board chairman. Back then, followers of Hinduism would gather in their homes to pray. Today, this is a building where people are welcome in a place where some feel lost... The Hindu community has grown dramatically in the Seattle area, especially in the 1990s. Many Hindus from India have come to work for The Boeing Co. and for Microsoft Corp. and other high-tech firms. Storekeepers, restaurant owners and students are members, too."