About Us
A Legacy of Faith, Culture, and Community
Since its founding, the Hindu community in the Washington Metropolitan area has reflected the nature and philosophy of attracting immigrants to the United States from all over the world. Buoyed by this country's freedom, liberty, and opportunity, countless people have come here.
A Short History
Since 1999, the Hindu community in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area has embodied the American ideals of freedom, liberty, and opportunity. Drawn by these promises, immigrants from India have enriched the cultural landscape of the region. Their diverse food, languages, music, and Hindu traditions have become vibrant threads woven into the Indian American tapestry. This multicultural society continues to flourish, fostering a dynamic and enriching community.
The Establishment of Durga Temple
Hindu migration to the United States increased significantly following the independence of South Asian and other former colonial nations in the mid-20th century. The Washington D.C. metropolitan area attracted numerous professionals, some of whom started successful businesses under American law. These professionals and entrepreneurs united to establish Siva Vishnu, Hindu, Jain, and Rajdhani temples. In 1989, with the support of pioneering Hindu businesspeople, the Durga Temple was founded, becoming a vital center for the growing Hindu community.
Our Journey of Faith
From vision to devotion—how Durga Temple came into being through unity and perseverance.
Challenges in the Growth Process
Like any volunteer-based organization, Durga Temple faced difficulties in aligning diverse personalities and viewpoints around a shared mission. This process was time-consuming and, at times, contentious,
Poonam Bansal
Trustee
Varun & Neha Chudiwale
Trustee
Mahendrasinh &
Naline Chudasama
Trustee
Mahendra Chudasama
President
Sarda Sistla
Vice-President
Mini Pillai
Deputy Treasurer
Ranjna Sachdeva
Secretary
Viny Frontin
Executive Member
Naveen Gupta
Executive Member
Manjit Shahjpal
Executive Member
Amol Sharma
Executive Member
Darshana Thakral
Executive Member
Jay Kumar Vedapuri
Executive Member
Sonia Wadhwa
Executive Member
Poonam Bansal
Trustee
Varun & Neha Chudiwale
Trustee
Mahendrasinh &
Naline Chudasama
Trustee
Our Members
Acharya Omkar Sharma
Performing various Hindu religious pujas, Yagnas, Temple Kumbhabhishekam, Preaching Ved path, Durga path, Geeta path and Shanthi path. Also performs Jyotish vidya and prepares computerized Janam Kundali. His Mother tongue is Hindi. Can speak other languages like English, Sanskrit, and can understand Punjabi.
Acharya Shanti Vashisht
Shanti Ji is fluent in Hindi, Sanskrit, Punjabi and English. He is expert in various Hindu rituals. His specialized skills include Mata ki Chowki, Sundarkand Path and Bhajans.
Pandit Kamal Bhatt
Kamal Bhatt Ji is fluent in English, Hindi and Punjabi. He can perform various hindu rituals. His specialized skills include Ganesh Puja, Navagrah Puja, Satyanarayana Puja etc.
Pandit Karthik Shivachariyar
Fluent in Sanskrit, Hindi, Telugu and English. His mother tongue is Tamil. He is expert in various Hindu rituals. His specialized skills include Chandi Homan, Rudrabhishekam, Brahmotsavam and Kumbhabhishekam. He is well versed in Pooja, Aaradhana for Lord Shiva, Parvarti Devi, Durga Devi, Ganesh, Subrahmanya, Ayyappa Swamy, Navagraha and also performing all outdoor kriyas.
Satyanarayana Ravada
Temple Manager
Bharat Patel
Temple Manager
The Philosophy of the Temple
The concept of God plays a central role in our Vedas and Upanishads, serving as a guiding principle toward a deeper understanding of the divine. Constructing a temple serves as an initial step in the journey to connect with the deeper aspects of the divine. This progression from the material to the spiritual realm mirrors the journey from the earth to water, fire, air, and ether - a journey that recognizes the presence of all five elements within us.
Embracing this path helps us transition from the material to the spiritual, although the material world is more easily understood. This approach enables us to transcend cultural and religious...
Upcoming Events
Temple Timings
Mondays
Morning : 7:00 AM - 12 PM
Evening : 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Aarti : 10:00 AM & 7:30 PM
Tuesdays - Fridays
Morning : 9:00 AM - 12 PM
Evening : 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Aarti : 10:00 AM & 7:30 PM
Mondays
Morning : 7:00 AM - 12 PM
Evening : 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Aarti : 10:00 AM & 7:30 PM
Saturdays and Holidays
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Open All Day
Aarti : 10:00 AM & 7:30 PM
Sundays
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Open All Day
Aarti : 10:00 AM & 6:30 PM
Please note: The Durga Temple's opening hours vary seasonally and by day of the week.
The Temple is open until 9:00 PM during spring and summer, and until 8:00 PM during winter.