Grand Hindu temple planned in England

Nevada (US), Jan 16 (ANI): A majestic multi-million pound Hindu temple and community center is reportedly being planned for Exeter (Devon, United Kingdom).

Claimed to be "one of a kind in Europe" when completed with an estimated cost of six to eight million pounds and spread out in four acres, this Hindu Temple and Cultural Community Centre (also known as Sanatan Hindu Mandir) is proposed to be functional in the next 2-4 years in an "eco-friendly" building. Currently, nearest Hindu temple is said to be in Bristol, about 75 miles.

It is reportedly registered with Charity Commission of England and Wales, where its object is listed as "advancement of the Hindu religion." Its other charitable purposes listed are: education/training, prevention/relief of poverty, religious activities, arts/culture/heritage/science, economic/community development/employment. Per this listing, it will also provide advocacy/advice/information.

Besides various Christian churches, Exeter has a mosque and a synagogue. This proposed temple plans to have statues of various deities and besides worship and rituals; will organize various cultural, community and educational events. Its other aims include advancement of environmental protection, promoting spiritual healing to relieve stress, financial help to hospitals and blood donation camps, promoting good race relations, elimination of race discrimination, understanding religious beliefs of others, unity between religious groups, etc. It will reportedly organize plant-a-tree campaign, paper recycling, and solar water heating.

Meanwhile, distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, applauded efforts of temple-project leaders and Exeter and surrounding area community to realize this wonderful Hindu temple and community center.

Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, further said that it was important to pass on Hindu spirituality, concepts and traditions to coming generations amidst so many distractions in the consumerist society and hoped that this new temple complex would focus in this direction.

Zed stressed that instead of running after materialism; we should focus on inner search and realization of self and work towards achieving moksh (liberation), which was the goal of Hinduism. (ANI)