ST LOUIS: On Christmas Eve, Gujarati Samaj members and Hindu Temple of St. Louis members made history by signing an agreement that would not only keep the torch of culture burning but grow even brighter in the future.
On this day, the Gujarati Samaj presented a check of $250,000 to the Hindu Temple to begin construction of the new building adjacent to the temple. In an auspicious moment, the priest offered at the feet of God, the documents reflecting the good faith of both the parties and for a bright future to next few generations. After the prayers, the documents were formally signed and presented to Hindu Temple along with the token amount.
Gujarati Samaj has also committed to help the temple raise additional funds and assured another $50,000 upon occupying the building. Both parties have signed a lease of 99 years. The community center will have a kitchen and large hall with stage and classrooms in 8000 to 10000 square foot area. Gujarati Samaj will be able to host Navratri and other events at this community center. Bal Vihar of St. Louis is also part of this project
The new center is being built for other organizations within the community. Having a center next to the temple will also help the families to leverage the opportunity to instill more culture and faith in their children.
This proposed Community Center will provide the following: a place to celebrate and teach the cultures, arts and traditions of India, a place to provide a platform for education and enrichment activities promoting Indian culture and Hindu traditions; 13 classrooms in the Community Center to support programs such as art, music, yoga, and cooking classes.
A place that creates a campus environment supporting various student interests and provides opportunities for leadership, development and personal growth. A center to host larger community events to highlight the contributions we make both politically and professionally in the St. Louis area and beyond. An expanded dining hall, welcome area and additional 250 parking spaces.
Gujarati Samaj made a fervent appeal to members of Indian community at large to contribute whole heartedly to the cause of the community and for betterment of future generations.
One of the members said, “We need to bring the community together to create a stronger presence and to highlight the contributions our community has made to the greater St. Louis area. We have the opportunity to bring our young generation together in one place to help them grow the footprint already in place through this project.”
Ashwin Patel
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