WICHITA, KANSAS, January 24, 2004: Wichita’s only Hindu temple operates peacefully now, thanks to its priest and a satisfactory location. At Wichita’s only Hindu temple, Sriraman Kadambi makes sure the Gods are properly cared for. He is the priest for the temple at 320 N. Zelta, a modest, white building outside but elaborately decorated inside. Opened in June 2002, the temple is a long-awaited source of pride and identity for the Indian Hindu community, which is estimated at 250 families and 400 students; most of the latter attend Wichita State University. “People want to have something of their own where they can go and be in peace,” said temple president Mohan Kulkarni. “We feel ownership and connection to the Almighty.” But nearly four years ago, plans for a temple had to be abandoned when nearby homeowners got a court order to stop construction. About a year later, they found a new site. For Hindu temple leaders, the new location is a long-awaited achievement. “We went through a very difficult situation,” said Rekha Reddi, who led the effort to establish the temple and paid for the land, among other costs. “It really is an accomplishment on our part to see the temple take shape.” For the city’s Hindus, the temple is now a central gathering place for worship.
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