Florida Hindu Organization Shiva Mandir History
The Florida Hindu Organization Inc. Shiva Mandir was started in August, 1981 by Pandit Ramsurat Maharaj, Ramharrack Sohan, and some friends. Barbara, of Divine Life Society of Trinidad, conducted the first official meeting in North Lauderdale, and the stage was set for the growth of a viable Hindu Organization.
The need for a group like this was obvious; there was no Hindu organization in the Tri-County area to fulfill the needs of the Hindu population. The name of the organization was initially Ft. Lauderdale Hindu Organization, but was later changed to Florida Hindu Organization, to encompass all of Florida. Services began at members’ homes. Soon, the word spread quickly via the Sun Sentinel. Hindus from all over the Caribbean countries came together to pray. The size of the congregation outgrew the homes of members, and parking became a problem.
The Executive decided to look for land space. They located and bought four lots of land in Orange Manors, Oakland Park. Members bought adjacent lots for future developments of the FHO. In 1991, the Shiva Mandir was completed, under the able leadership of both Pt. Ramsurat Maharaj and Hanuman Jeethan, a Civil Engineer, and past President of the FHO.
As with all organizations, the FHO has had its fair share of stumbling blocks. But, by sheer determination, it has overcome many of them. The year 1994 witnessed the entrance of a brand-new, young and energetic Executive. This group of young men and their families restored confidence in the membership. In a short space of time, seventeen lots of land were bought. Improvements to three lots were made. More pundits attended and rendered their services voluntarily, and the focus became the young children.
Today, Baal Vikas class is held at the Shiva Mandir every Friday night and the average attendance is seventy five students. The teachers are doing a tremendous job teaching the kids mantras, bhajans, hindi and lessons on moral and cultural values.
The Shiva Mandir is now under the guidance of Pt. Bimal Maharaj our Spiritual Leader and poised to face the challenges of this new century with good leadership, families, and students, Plans are to build a new temple and an indoor kitchen next to the existing facility. The current temple will be converted into an all-purpose building for all classes, shows, wedding receptions, dining facility etc.
As you can see, remarkable progress is being made. And with your assistance, both morally and financially, we will become a more vibrant Hindu Organization. On behalf of the Executive we extend best wishes to all.
Sunday Morning Satsangh:
9:30 AM to 12.00 Noon
New or current members, we welcome you every Sunday to partake in the religious service. Learn the scriptures from our pundits. We’re sure you’ll learn things about Hinduism you did not know before. Bring the entire family and enjoy a nice discourse and lunch is served after service every Sunday.
Morning Mantras:– 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM
Discourse:– 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Aarti / Prasad:– 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Lunch:– 11:30 AM to 12.00 noon
Florida Hindu Organization Shiva Mandir Membership Details:
If you are not a financial member, please join your temple and become a member today. The membership donation is only: $25.00 Per Person per Year. CLICK HERE FOR FORM Please send your donation to the temple at the following address: Florida Hindu Organization Inc. PO Box 9003 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33310-9003
Your donation is Tax-deductible. Temple’s Tax Id No. is 59-2154704. Membership Benefits are: Help promote our Hindu Religion, Culture, & Heritage in South Florida. Annual hindu calendar free and stay informed about temple activities. Enjoy and Participate in Temple Religious and Cultural Events. Discount for weddings and other functions. Ability to vote at elections. Click here for Membership form.
Florida Hindu Organization Shiva Mandir Address:
3000 NW 29th Ave,
Oakland Park,
FL 33311, USA
Phone: +1 954-854-6929
