The Arizona Republic
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA, December 15, 2003: A colorful display of Gods and Goddesses can be seen at the Hindu Temple of Arizona in one of the least diverse parts of the Valley — Scottsdale. Bakshi Pitaji, the hospitable “father” of the temple, said that when he moved to the Valley in 1998, the only space he had to do Hanuman Puja was his son’s home in Scottsdale. For three years, Bakshi Pitaji, 87, and his son, Vidya Bakshi, the temple’s acting president, invited friends and family into their home every Tuesday. “At times, up to 30 people would come to worship,” he said. Other Hindu groups also met in private homes across the Valley for various Hindu services. After years of without a temple the Hindu community, including Bakshi Pitaji and his son, decided to do something. “We consolidated our money with our family and friends and other Hindu groups,” Vidya Bakshi said. Property became available in 2001 directly across the street from his son’s home. “(The temple) used to be the Scottsdale Church of God,” Vidya Bakshi said. “It was already God’s place, just another God moved in.” The temple has also served as an educational tool for Scottsdale and Tempe colleges. On a recent visit, a crowd of Scottsdale Community College students looked stunned as they watched a service in honor of Hanuman.”It’s beautiful,” student Liz Dysart said. “I’ve never seen people so passionate.” Vidya Bakshi said “We’ve gotten positive feedback from the Scottsdale community,” Vidya Bakshi said. “It is ‘the most livable city in America.’ “