ISKCON Inaugurates Sri Sri Radha Govindadeva Mandir in Thane

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Sri Sri Radha Govindadeva Mandir in Thane, Maharashtra. Situated within a gated community developed by Piramal Realty, this temple not only signifies a new spiritual haven but also represents a first-of-its-kind endeavor in Maharashtra. The consecration ceremony, held on March 17, was graced by Radhanath Swami and Gauranga Das, Governing Body Commissioners of ISKCON, along with eminent personalities including Ajay Piramal, Chairman of Piramal Enterprises Ltd., Dr. Swati Piramal, Vice Chairperson of Piramal Group, and the Piramal Family. While ISKCON has established approximately 500 temples worldwide, including prominent ones in the Mumbai region, such as Chowpatty, Juhu, Kharghar, and Mira Road, the Thane shrine stands out as the first to be nestled within a gated community in Maharashtra. Spread across approximately 4,000 square feet, the temple complex boasts Nagara architectural styles reminiscent of Rajasthan and Gujarat. It features a single Shikhar towering above, a magnificent 90-foot dome, and is supported by 18 pillars. The entrance to the Garbhagriha or sanctum is adorned with the theme of Kalpavriksha, the wish-fulfilling tree, reflecting meticulous attention to detail. Crafted from pink sandstone sourced from Bansi Paharpur in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, the temple adheres to the principles of 'Shilpashastra' and 'Vastushastra', drawing architectural inspiration akin to the revered Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya. During the inauguration, Radhanath Swami expressed his joy and congratulated the Piramal family for their endeavor. It is my great joy to see that Ajay and Swati are fulfilling the dream of their mother, Smt. Lalita Piramal, by offering a temple of Sri Sri Radha Krishna to the people of this world, he remarked, emphasizing the temple's potential as a source of shelter and inspiration. Gauranga Das echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the temple's significance in fostering spiritual blessings. The temple will bring the blessings of Srila Prabhupada, the Founder Acharya of ISKCON. It is a wonderful moment for me to witness the inauguration of such a gorgeous temple of Sri Sri Radha and Krishna, he remarked. Ajay Piramal underscored his family's deep-rooted connection with ISKCON, dating back to the 1970s. Our profound spiritual connection deepened when my mother, Smt. Lalita Piramal, became a disciple of His Highness Radhanath Swami, and this temple is dedicated to her memory, he shared. Piramal emphasized the temple's role in ensuring accessibility to spiritual sanctuaries for all, aligning with their holistic approach to resident and devotee well-being, thus fostering a balanced and harmonious way of life. The Sri Sri Radha Govindadeva Mandir in Thane stands not only as a testament to spiritual devotion but also as a beacon of architectural splendor, enriching the cultural tapestry of Maharashtra.