HISTORICAL

In June, 1977, several members of the Indian community from the metropolitan Los Angeles area met and resolved to build a Hindu temple for the benefit of the community at large. The Hindu Temple Society was incorporated as a non-profit religious organization on August 18,1977 in the state of California.

Two key provisions of the articles of incorporation are: The specific and primary purposes of the organization are to operate a temple for religious purposes; The property of this corporation is irrevocably dedicated to religious purposes and no part of the net income or assets shall ever inure to the benefit of any director, officer or member thereof or to the benefit of any private individual. This temple is a prized possession of our community and is a very valued legacy to our children.

The Hindu temple is built for the main deity of Lord Venkateswara (form of Vishnu) and has several shrines for different deities. Temples are built complying to strict codes, known as shastras and this temple is built according to Silpa Shastra in Chola style of temple architecture. The art and science of temple construction is learned by a disciple from his guru or by a son from his father in a traditional way. The temple architect is known as sthapathi and the architect of this temple is none other than the famous Muthiah Sthapathi, of India, who is designing temples all over the world. The foundations and the structures were built by the local contractors. The brick veneer work and the sculptural plastering is done by artisans from India who are known as silpis, who undergo several years of training under a sthapathi. This temple is one of the largest and most authentic Hindu temples in the western hemisphere.

SAILENT FEATURES

TEMPLE MANAGEMENT

The temple is owned and operated by the General Body of the Hindu Temple Society. Its membership, Circa 1994, is over one thousand. The day-to-day affairs are managed by a Board of directors. They serve the organization on a volunteer basis.

PUBLICATIONS

A monthly newsletter and an annual calendar are published by the Hindu Temple Society. If you would like to be on the mailing list for temple activities, please leave your name and address at the office.

TEMPLE RESOURCES

Public donations are the only source of income for the temple. The Board of Directors and the General Body of the Society appreciate your help.