CHICAGO: Four years from now, devotes of Jalaram Bapa in Chicagoland had their dream come true when they commenced Jalaram Mandir at Hofman Estate, a north side suburb of Chicago. Now the devotees are bracing for a leap forward – getting the second phase for larger space and idols of not only Bapa but other Hindu deities – in all nine – installed at the facility in a year time.
The ground breaking ceremony for the expansion that would cost close to $2.5 million was held at the temple premise and the event dubbed the start of the Murti Pratisthan Mahotsav was attended by close to 500 Jalaram Bapa devotees and the Mandir volunteers. It lasted for about three hours starting at 4-30 pm.
The Bhoomi Puja was performed as per the rules enunciated in Hindu scriptures and was attended and graced among others by the Hoffman Village Mayor William McLeod, his team of Trustees and representatives of Chambers of Commerce. Rajesh Thakkar and the Mandir Trustees accorded hearty welcome. There were 75 Yajmans for brick giving of $151. They all participated in the Puja and witnessed the cutting of the ribbon
Following the ground breaking ceremony, Bhajans were chanted by the devotees for an auspicious start of the expansion project. After the Bhajans, Bavni was recited followed by Thaal and Aarti
Shree Jalaram Mandir conducts Bhajans every Thursday, first and third Sunday. It organizes Sundarkand path every Saturday, Abhishek on Mondays and on Ekadashi, group Satyanarayan Katha. During the celebration of Jalaram Jayanti, discourses of saints from India are held. Celebrations of all religious events like Ram Navami, Janmashtami, Navratri, Holi, Diwali and Ekadashi etc are a normal feature.
Giving back to the society, the Mandir management hosts annual health fair, provides free flu shots and arranges blood donation. The plans are afoot to conduct monthly medical clinic Seva, which will include doctor’s consultation, laboratory tests and providing free prescription medicines on an ongoing basis. Giving a boost to spiritual health, the Mandir conducts yoga classes besides imparting music lessons, Gujarati classes and religious classes.
Yogesh Thakkar & Asian Media
