Hinduism Raho Nur: Site Report

Site Review: Hinduism Raho Nur On a beautiful Sunday, February 10, I headed over to the Hindu Temple of Minnesota. It was 10am and I made it just in time for the Ganesh Homam and Abhishegam ritual. Words could not explain how breath taken the structure was and, also came to learn that Hindus are very welcoming. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “I’ve came to a conclusion that all religions are and true and all have some error. And, as I hold by my own religion, I should hold other religion as dear as Hinduism, our innermost prayer should get that a Hindu should become a better Hindu,
With everything going on in the foreign lands, I didn’t really expect to be welcomed but more of confused looks and silent treatments. That was completely wrong, I was basically brought in as one of their own. From when I got out of the car to entering the temple I was told “Namaste” by everybody I made eye contact with. And, in return I bowed my head and said “Namaste” back. I forgot to hang up my jacket as I entered, so one of the volunteers at the temple insisted she’d go hang it up for me, as well as my friend’s jacket. Everybody’s smile was so bright, and were dressed in beautiful Hindi traditional clothes, similar to the one’s the gods and goddesses were decorated with. Twenty minutes in, Mr. Rad Ganesh, the vice chairman, approached us. He wanted to know if we had any question as I went on to explain my assignment. He told me to get comfortable, everyone was welcomed. He mentioned the temple was open to anyone of any race and religion, and that everybody was the same in his eyes. He offered to give a quick tour before the service starts. He explained what every temple stood for and what part in India its most likely practiced at. Sadly, that was cut short because, the priest called for prayer. As, that went on nobody looked at me as if I was out of place or didn’t belong there. I exchanged smiles with everyone I ran into, also was given a brown bag filled with treats. The bag contained nuts, apples etc. As a thank you for participating. And, at that moment my anxiety went to rest. I felt relaxed and wanted to witness everything. How people hugged and kissed each other helped me realize religion really brings people togather. The debate I had before entering the temple, whether I should remove my scarf or if wouldn’t be accepted was pointless. Like I said earlier we are all hope for one ending, the only difference is the route we choose to take to get