The Hindu Temple of Delaware is a Hindu temple in Hockessin, Delaware. Inaugurated in 2002, it is the first Hindu temple constructed in Delaware.[2][3][4] According to The News Journal, the temple has become "a social and cultural gathering place" for Indian Americans in New Castle County.[5]

The temple's main deity is Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.[1]

History

In the late 20th century, Indian immigrant families in Delaware started gathering at local churches and schools to worship and celebrate Hindu festivals. As the local Indian American population grew, these families formed the Hindu Temple Association of Hockessin. The association conducted fundraisers to raise money to buy land to build a temple. After raising enough funds, the association purchased five acres of land. In 1996, construction began on the site. In 2002, the temple was inaugurated with the Kumbhabhishekham ceremony.[4][6]

In 2020, a 25-foot statue of Hanuman, the god of courage and wisdom, was installed at the temple entrance. It is the tallest Hanuman statue in the United States and weighs 60,000 pounds.[2][3]

Administration

The temple is administered by a board of trustees.[6][7]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Hindu Temple of Delaware".
  2. ^ a b "Hindu Temple in Hockessin welcomes 25-foot, 60,000-pound statue of Hindu god".
  3. ^ a b "Largest statue of Lord Hanuman in United States arrives at Hindu temple in Delaware". 9 February 2020.
  4. ^ a b "Sarina Pasricha". Pluralism Project Archive - Harvard University.
  5. ^ "Balance: Indian music, films have gained popularity in America". The News Journal from Wilmington, Delaware. 28 February 2004.
  6. ^ a b "About Us". Hindu Temple DE.
  7. ^ "Contact". Hindu Temple DE.