Hindu Temple of South Carolina

It started with an informal meeting called for the purpose in Sequi Centennial Park in the summer of 1982. As a result of long search and hard work, 1.38 acres of land was purchased. Free Legal services for this transaction was provided by Hon. Congressman Joe Wilson.

The temple was incorporated with the secretary of state of south carolina on February 2, 1983 and a constitution and Bylaws were drafted. The temple received federal tax-exempt status on February 17, 1984.

On November 5-1983, Swami Bhashyanandji of Ramakrishna Mission, Chicago, performed the ground breaking ceremony of the temple. The temple was opened for the devotees and the public on March 29, 1985 on the auspicious Ramnavami, the birthday celebration of Lord Sri Rama. The installation of the murthi's (images) of the deities and the infusion of life (pranpathista) in them spiritually was celebrated on October 30-31, 1986.

Ever since the temple activities started, the temple has been increasingly serving the Hindus and the wider community in a dynamic way. It is active in inter religious activities both cultural and humanitarian. Students of Schools and Colleges visit the temple to learn about Hindu Ideal, traditions and practices. Once a year, we celebrate the "India Day" in which general public is invited to attend Indian Dance, music and taste Indian delicacies. This provides opportunities to understand and appreciate mutual cultures. The temple provides opportunities for open house worship.

The temple is involved in the exchange of ideas and mutual visits to institutions of higher learning such as University of South Carolina, Benedict College, Bible College, Columbia College and Furman University.

The South Carolina department of Education took the help of the temple to remove gender and ethnic biases in the state. It has been a consultant of South Carolina Christian Action council and Governor's task force after 9/11/2002.