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ISKCON Adelaide Australia Witnesses Grand Inauguration of a New Temple Hall
By Adi Purusa Krsna Dasa   |  Dec 14, 2024
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The construction of a new temple extension hall at ISKCON Adelaide, South Australia, was finally completed, and its doors opened to the public on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The occasion was celebrated with a grand inaugural ceremony, which was accompanied by mantra-chanting, ecstatic kirtans, and gaiety.

We faced many trials and tribulations during this arduous journey. Still, ultimately, by the mercy of the presiding deities, Sri Sri Radha Syamasundara, we prevailed. The Ananta-sesh installation puja was performed about three years ago, but due to the impact of COVID-19 and other reasons, the temple building works were delayed significantly. Finally, the temple hall has been opened, ready to embrace with open arms all those who arrive at its doorstep.

Among the distinguished guests present were Mr. Steve Georganas MP – sitting Member of Parliament for Adelaide; the Honourable Russell Wortley MLC, South Australian Legislative Council; Ramai Swami and Devamrita Swami, the GBCs for Australia; Nrsimha Kavaca Das, ISKCON Deity Worship Minister; National Executive Members, yatra leaders, devotees, friends and well-wishers.

The celebration was performed under the supervision of Nrsimha Kavaca Das according to Vedic traditions. The ceremony began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the sannyasis. Then the deities of Sri Sri Radha Syamasundar were transferred to Their new premises with great pomp and splendour. Ramai Swami, in his address, appreciated the efforts of the devotees and briefed the guests on the history of ISKCON Adelaide since its early days. Devamrita Swami, who also spoke at the event, encouraged the devotees to work in cooperation. Mr Steve Georganas MP thanked ISKCON for building a spiritual sanctuary for people around Adelaide. He said that the government had earlier given a grant of A$80,000 for security protection and pledged to give more assistance in the future. Russell Wortley MLC then appreciated the efforts of the local ISKCON community for presenting a beautiful hall to the people of Adelaide.

Adi Purusa Krsna Dasa, Co-President, ISKCON Adelaide, expressed gratitude to the representatives of the Government of South Australia, GBC members, core congregation, and members of the public for their contributions and gracious presence. He expressed that the temple would also function as a cultural complex for society, attracting people from all walks of life. He had earlier said that the devotees of ISKCON Adelaide would like to offer this Temple Hall at the lotus feet of Srila Prabhupada, who had tirelessly worked to propagate Bhakti Yoga in this region.

Following the addresses by the various dignitaries, a pushpa abhiseka or flower-bathing ceremony was held for the utsava murtis (festival deities). Their Lordships were then offered Raj bhog arati with sacramental rites and to the accompaniment of tumultuous sounds of chanting, mrdanga, and kartalas. At about 1 pm, sumptuous Krsna prasadam was served, which was honoured and appreciated by all.

Please enjoy a gallery from the event below:

 

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