The Hindu Temple Society of North America was formed on January 26, 1970. At that time the Hindu Temple Society of North America established a Hindu Temple-Culture Center and constructed the Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapathi Devasthanam (located at 45-57 Bowne Street in Flushing Queens). "The logo of the Society, adapted from Sri Satya Sai Baba's ecumenical symbol, is a light surrounded by insignias of several religions with OM on top. It signifies universality, catholicity and spirit of tolerance of Hinduism. While stressing the supremacy of the Absolute and deifying some of the major aspects as represented by the main deities, the Center stresses the totality and fundamental unity at the core of all religion. Hinduism has no place for crusades". (http://www.indianet.com/ganesh/) "The Temple provides a spectrum of approaches to God. Since the human body itself is veritably a temple, Deities within can be invoked and worshipped. One has only to delve deep within to reach God who d!
             wells in each one of us. The path of Bhakti or Devotion is an easier method. Worship of a Deity or Deities of one's choice "Ishta Devata," helps the devotees to focus their attention and relate to God. The consecrated Vighrahas or idols, when worshipped continuously, acquire a capacity to respond. They also glorify specific attributes of the Absolute". (http://www.indianet.com/ganesh/)
             "Everything in Hinduism begins with Worship of
             Ganapati. The first major authentic Temple built in USA according to Agama and Silpasastra has as its presiding Deity Maha Vallabha Ganapati".
             The temple, Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapathi Devasthanam is located on Bowne St. directly along the street line. Constructed in a symmetrical modest Hindu design, Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapathi Devasthanam is a marble coated Hindu temple located in the heart of Flushing, Queens. A heavily, yet delicately and intricately ornamented temple, with specifically des...