Aparna Hande and Dr. Pradip Shukla
It was a proud and deeply moving moment recently this summer as the Irvine Hindu Mandir donated the monumental “Encyclopedia of Hinduism” to the prestigious Chapman University Leatherby Libraries.
This encyclopedia is the first of its kind in the English language—a true labor of love and devotion: 11 large volumes, richly illustrated in color; Over 7,000 pages, authored by 1,500 scholars, edited by 45 academic experts, and reviewed by an additional panel of experts. The 11 large volumes Encyclopedia of Hinduism is valued at $995 and weighs 75 lbs.
The donation to Chapman University was made possible through the devoted efforts of Suresh Lohiya Ji. And coordinated by Chapman University’s Dr. Pradip Shukla, The Shah Family Endowed Chair in Innovativeness. Suresh Lohiya is a dedicated volunteer at the Irvine Hindu Mandir and a few other organizations. Suresh writes and speaks to promote eternal dharma practiced by Hindus at the Irvine Hindu Mandir. Suresh shared how this encyclopedia was created over many years with deep dedication, scholarship, and passion. He eloquently explained the depth and detail contained in the volumes—an extraordinary achievement.
During the ceremony, Suresh beautifully spoke about Lord Ganesh, the Vignaharta (Remover of Obstacles), whose blessings are invoked at the beginning of every sacred endeavor. He also honored Goddess Saraswati, the divine embodiment of knowledge, art, music, and intelligence, whose grace inspires learning, creativity, and enlightenment.
The event was graced by several community Leaders: – Kewal & Asha Kanda, Mr. & Mrs. Pradeep Madaan, Aparna Hande, Dr. Pradip Shukla and Professor Yatri Shukla, devoted members of the Irvine Temple, Chapman University Leatherby Library Assistant Dean Essraa Nawar, and library staff in Special Collections.
Pradeep Madaan and Deepak Sharma from Irvine Hindu Mandir addressed at the event. Vijaya Lohiya from Mandir served sweets and snacks. Professor Pradip Shukla spoke on how the gift helps Chapman University in reaching its mission of preparing global citizens. Chapman University’s Director of special collections and Assistant Dean Nawar also addressed the audience and appreciated that this addition will offer valuable resources to library users.
Professor Yatri Shukla who teaches at Chapman University also guided attendees on a visit to the Fish Interfaith Center, highlighting Chapman University’s commitment to spiritual inclusivity and interfaith understanding.
A heartfelt thanks to Suresh Ji and the Irvine Mandir community for this noble offering.
Special gratitude to Dr. Pradip Shukla and Prof. Yatri Shukla for their continued leadership in bringing this priceless treasure to academic institutions.
To conclude the beautiful ceremony, Indian sweets were offered as Prasad by Suresh Ji and Prof. Yatri Shukla, sharing the sweetness of the moment with all present, symbolizing divine blessings and communal joy. Chapman library staffers readily cooperated.
Many visitors to Chapman University feel a sense of peace and youthful energy. It was an honor to witness this meaningful donation ceremony and connect with fellow devotees in celebration.
This is not the first donation of The Encyclopedia of Hinduism, as such sets have already been gifted to Soka University and Cal State University Long Beach thanks to the tireless efforts of Suresh Ji.
Also Read: Orange County Hindus offer Shradhanjali at Irvine Mandir
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