Hindu Temple Society of North America

The temple opens early to accommodate morning devotees and remains accessible throughout the day. Weekday hours run from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm, while weekend hours begin earlier at 7:30 am and close at the same time. Two principal aartis (ritual offerings of light) occur daily: the Sarva Devata Mangala Harati at 7:30 pm and the Ardha Yama Pooja at 8:40 pm. These ceremonies represent key moments in the temple's daily rhythm, drawing devotees for collective worship. The temple maintains a schedule of both regular daily services and special occasion pujas that can be booked by devotees seeking personalized rituals.

Festivals and Observances

The temple celebrates a calendar of significant festivals throughout the year. Sri Ganesa Chaturthi, the birthday of Ganesha, receives extended observance with celebrations spanning multiple days. Other important occasions include Pradosham, Sankata Hara Chaturthi, and Satyanarayana Pooja. The temple also maintains Vedic observances such as Sama Upakarma and Apastamba Yajur Upakarma. Specific dates for these celebrations vary annually according to the Hindu lunar calendar, and devotees should consult the temple's current schedule or contact them directly for precise timing.

Community Facilities and Services

Beyond its primary religious function, the temple operates several facilities serving the broader community. A canteen offers South Indian vegetarian cuisine including idli, vada, and dosa, open daily from 8:30 am to 9:00 pm. The temple complex includes a community center with an auditorium and wedding halls available for events and functions. Educational and cultural programs operate regularly, including classes in yoga, Carnatic music (vocal and veena), Bharata Natyam dance, and Kathak. A Patasala (traditional Hindu school) offers instruction in Hindu philosophy and practice. The temple also maintains a senior center providing activities and engagement for older members of the community.

Visiting the Temple

The temple is located at 45-57 Bowne Street in Flushing, Queens, New York. Visitors should plan to arrive during posted hours and be prepared for the possibility that timings may change at the temple's discretion. Standard Hindu temple etiquette applies: remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum, dress modestly, and maintain respectful silence during worship. The temple welcomes both devotees and visitors interested in learning about Hindu practice. Those wishing to arrange special pujas or services should contact the temple in advance. The temple can be reached by phone at (718) 460-8484, extension 112, for inquiries about specific services, festival dates, or facility availability.