Hague approves largest Hindu temple complex in mainland Europe

Nevada (US), Feb 20 (ANI):Hague in Netherlands will have the largest Hindu temple complex in mainland Europe, according to reports.

Hague Mayor and Council have reportedly approved the construction of this about one million Euros temple complex, which is a consortium of three different movements, and will be an icon for Hague and Netherlands when finished. Construction is expected to begin in 2013 and complex is said to open in 2014.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, has termed it a historical milestone for the community in continental Europe. He urged other countries of Europe to set aside land for Hindu temples in major cities so that community had places to worship and socialization and keeping the culture alive. Zed applauded the efforts of Netherlands community for this wonderful achievement.

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 help 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.

This complex, located directly behind the station Hollands Spoor in Laakhaven West area, will result in three temples built side by side and linked together, including International Society for Krishna Consciousness and Arya Samaj, and containing two towers, 90 apartments, and facilities for yoga and meditation.

Roughly over 10 percent population of Hague and one percent of Netherlands is Hindu (coming from Surinam, India, Sri Lanka, etc., besides western Hindus). In Netherlands, there are said to be Hindu temples in Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Enschede, Heerlen, Leiden, Lelystad, Roermond, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Wijchen. Josias van Aartsen is the Mayor of Hague; Anne Bertram is City Manager; while Rajesh Ramnewash and Mitra Rambaran are Councilors.

The Hague (Den Haag), originated around 1230, also known as "international city of peace and justice", is the seat of the Dutch parliament, government and Royal Court; headquarters of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands; home to over 150 international organizations, including International Court of Justice; home of Royal Dutch Shell and T-Mobile; and is known for The Peace Palace. Bollywood's Filmfare Award winner "Hum Tum" (Kunal Kohli) was shot here. Prominent residents include Nobel laureate Jan Tinbergen, film director Paul Verhoeven (Total Recall), philosopher Baruch Spinoza, Punjabi singer Imran Khan (Ni Nachleh), etc.

Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion of the world, has about one billion adherents. (ANI)