Hindu Jain Temple - Monroeville, PA - Hindu Temples on Waymarking.com

There is no other temple complex in the world like Hindu-Jain Temple of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In response to social & religious needs of a growing population of followers of Hinduism & other Indic religions, a 7-acre parcel of land was purchased in April 1973. The original site had a converted church building, which was used for functions during the initial years.

In 1980, some families pledged an initial sum of money for the construction of a new Temple. It took a legal battle to finally get necessary permits and zoning. After much deliberations, the architectural style (NAGRADI- popular in North, Central & Eastern India) as well as principal deities to be installed were agreed upon. Groundbreaking ceremony took place on the Dussera Day in 1981. Swami Sadanand Saraswatiji and Sant Narayan muniji (now known as Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji) from Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, India laid the foundation stone.

A basic shell for the temple was first created by local artisans and then shilpies from India were called upon to finish the ornate interior work as well as the elegant exterior work and the shikhars. On May 13th 1984, the Pran Pratishtha of the deities took place in a grand Vedic tradition. The name of the temple was changed from Hindu Temple to Hindu Jain Temple in 1986. The construction work was finally completed and grand inauguration took place in September 1990. The Temple is operated by Hindu Temple Society of North America, Pittsburgh.

Members participate in diverse celebrations led by various groups and enrich themselves. This has broadened the horizons and outlooks of the youth and the adults alike. The temple schools help the youth learn their mother tongue, religion and culture. For the children and the generations to come, the temple is more than a place of worship. It is a link to their roots and a symbol of their great Hindu heritage and a source of their identity, unity and to instill in them our basic values such as truth, non-violence, tolerance and piece.

This temple is the first unified Hindu-Jain Temple in North America and perhaps in the world and is a unique example of understanding, tolerance and appreciation of each other's religious practices and traditions.

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Date Logged Log User Rating   01/01/2022 Rattrak visited it