NEW YORK, NEW YORK, October 1, 2007: The long-awaited Prana Pratistha Mahotsavam (installation of the Deities) at the first Hindu Temple “Shree Ram Mandir” built in Staten Island was held on August 24-27. During the three-day holy ceremony, the Deities of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman made of white marble in Rajasthan were installed per Hindu ritual and worship. Also installed were Deities of Lord Ganesh and Lord Venkateshwara made of black granite in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to its presiding Deity Lord Rama.
The three-day holy ceremony which began on Friday culminated on Sunday with the inauguration of the temple’s Community Hall by James Molinaro, Boro President, Staten Island and benediction by Swami Dayananda Saraswati of Arsha Vidya Gurukulam. Many elected officials attended the ceremony including John Gulino, Chairman Democratic Committee of Staten Island. Hundreds of devotees participated in the religious ceremony.
The temple is about 4,800 sq. ft. and consists of two floors. “The cost so far is about US$1.6 million and we are in need of more funds to complete the next installation of the nine Deities, navagraham and the gopuram which is expected to complete within next year,” said Dr. Krishne Urs, co-chairman of the board of trustees.” “India is praised a lot for its culture, tradition and family values across the world and there is no better place than a place of worship to nurture and pass it on to the next generation,” said Rajiv Gowda.